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Blaengwrach Primary Prospectus
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CONTENTS HEAD TEACHER’S WELCOME 1
SCHOOL INFORMATION 2
OUR SCHOOL / SCHOOL AIMS / CURRICULUM AIMS 3 - 5
USE OF THE WELSH LANGUAGE 6
CURRICULUM FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION 6
PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES 7
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES / RACE EQUALITY 7
ADMISSIONS 7
BEHAVIOUR AND DISCIPLINE 8
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY 8
HOMEWORK POLICY 9
SEX EDUCATION 9
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION / COLLECTIVE WORSHIP 10
BULLYING 10
SCHOOL COUNCIL / ECO SCHOOL / HEALTHY SCHOOL / MEALS IN SCHOOL 11
PARENTAL PARTNERSHIP 12
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINE TO PUPILS 12
CHARGING AND REMISSIONS 12 - 13
SPORTING AIMS AND PROVISION 13
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 13
SCHOOL UNIFORM / P.E. AND GAMES 14
SCHOOL OPENING TIMES 15
TRANSITION TO COMPREHENSIVE PHASE EDUCATION 15
INSPECTION OF DOCUMENTS / FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 16
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE 16
PHOTOGRAPHING AND VIDEOING CHILDREN POLICY 17
APPENDIX 1 - HOME/SCHOOL AGREEMENT 18
APPENDIX 2 - MEDICINE ADMINISTRATION PERMISSION FORM 19
TERM TIME HOLIDAYS / PUNCTUALITY 20 - 22
NATIONAL CURRICULUM ASSESSMENT RESULTS 23 - 26
ATTENDANCE SUMMARIES 27 - 28
SCHOOL TERMS AND HOLIDAY DATES 29
1
WELCOME TO
BLAENGWRACH PRIMARY SCHOOL
Head Teacher’s Welcome
Dear Parent / Carer
Thank you for taking an interest in Blaengwrach Primary School. Choosing the
right school for your child is vitally important and most parents want a good
education for their children, but they also want them to be happy and to feel safe
and secure. At Blaengwrach Primary School, we believe we can provide these
essentials, as we aim to ensure that every child feels valued and loved and to know
that he/she is safe.
Every person in the school, whether child or adult, has a significant and an
appreciated role to play and we consider ourselves as learners in a thinking school.
Everyone that is associated with the school community is aware that every child is
a unique individual and is of utmost importance. We work together as a team with
each one of us playing an important part, to ensure that the school is a lively
community, offering a wealth of rich, varied and interesting activities to all our
children.
We believe that the most important time for our children is now and our aim is to
maximize the learning possibilities of the present as the best means of preparing for
the future. We welcome your child to school and trust that your associations with
us will be both positive and productive. We shall do our utmost to ensure your
child's happiness and full educational development whilst here at Blaengwrach
Primary School and we will strive to ensure that our children experience kindness,
sensitivity and love, remembering at all times that every child is blessed with
talents and aptitudes, that we are privileged to nurture.
This Prospectus is intended to provide a brief outline of Blaengwrach Primary
School. It cannot and is not intended to replace the best form of communication,
which is personal contact between home and school. We aim to operate an ‘Open
Door’ policy, where every parent is welcomed and with this in mind, please do not
hesitate to contact the school to discuss any issues that may be of concern.
Please keep this brochure for reference, in a safe, easily located place, for the time
that your child is with us.
With kind regards,
Brenda Harrett
2
SCHOOL INFORMATION
School: Blaengwrach Primary School
Address: Heol Wenallt
Cwmgwrach
Neath
Neath Port Talbot
SA11 5PS
Tel/Fax: 01639 720342
Email: [email protected]
Head Teacher: Ms Brenda Harrett
Deputy Head Teacher: Mrs E. Lynne Jardine
Administration Officer: Mrs Karen L. Thomas
Type of School: L.E.A. Maintained Community School,
Mixed intake
Age Range of Pupils: 3 – 11 years
Chair of Governors: Councillor Mrs Carolyn Edwards
Tel. No. 01639 720083
This information is correct at the time of printing, Spring Term, 2010.
3
OUR SCHOOL
Blaengwrach Primary School is situated in the Upper Neath Valley and serves the
communities of Blaengwrach, Cwmgwrach and Glynneath. It is sited in a picturesque
location and offers a wide and varied programme of extra curricular activities.
The school is based around two buildings; the Junior department, built in 1908 and the
Infant department built in 1914. The buildings are separated and flanked by hard play
areas. There is a school field and a nature area.
The Junior building houses the Head Teacher's Office, the Administration Office, the
Information Technology suite and all Junior classrooms.
The Foundation Phase building houses the Staff Room, Canteen, Infant and Nursery
classrooms. The Nursery also has a separate enclosed play area.
Blaengwrach Primary School is a single site school located in the village of Cwmgwrach.
It is in an attractive setting and parents and children are encouraged to develop ideas for
the enhancement of the external environment of the school. The school has twice been
awarded the Wales in Bloom award as National Champion and is now working towards
achieving the coveted ECO-School Green Flag award.
SCHOOL AIMS
Blaengwrach Primary School has developed a proven record of success and a confidence
that will enable us to meet the challenges of the present and the future. It is a forward-
looking school anxious to blend established values with the most up to date methods and
equipment.
The philosophy of Blaengwrach Primary School is based on the importance of the
individual. Every child at Blaengwrach is "special" and every child is valued and catered
for as an individual and is given the opportunity and encouragement to develop as such.
Our curriculum is to be thought of in terms of activity and experience, rather than of
knowledge to be acquired and facts to be stored. Our aims are designed to allow children
to fulfill their true potential and we present our aims to you in the spirit of partnership.
We aim to:
� create in our school a warm, loving, caring, challenging, yet supportive
environment, in which the natural development of the child can be fostered and
in which each child is encouraged to reach his/her true potential, eventually
becoming an independent learner, whilst enjoying the time at primary school.
� provide a broad, balanced, relevant and differentiated curriculum to facilitate
the acquisition of knowledge, promote enjoyment in learning and to provide
pupils with relevant skills and attitudes required for everyday living.
4
� reconcile the needs of the child's individual growth and development, whilst
preserving his/her natural curiosity and desire to learn.
� provide in school, sensible, but firm, discipline, in which the children can
develop socially and intellectually.
� develop in pupils a positive attitude towards themselves and others, along with
a strong sense of self-respect for other people's property, ideas and beliefs.
� provide for the children, through the curriculum and general school activities,
opportunities to develop positive attitudes towards and concern for, the
environment and to apply their knowledge and understanding to the cultural,
economic, environmental and historical characteristics of Wales.
� foster close relationships and the concept of partnership between the school, the
pupils, their parents and the local community.
CURRICULUM AIMS
At Blaengwrach Primary School we do our utmost to promote the spiritual, moral and
cultural development of our children and prepare them for the opportunities,
responsibilities and experiences of adult life.
Children learn best from structured, practical experiences accompanied by meaningful
discussion. Therefore, English, Mathematics, Science, Design Technology, History,
Geography, Art, Music, Physical Education, Welsh, Information Technology and Religious
Education are taught in a practical way through a thematic approach, to engage children’s
interest, encourage an enjoyment of learning and give a meaningful context for the
development of skills. We aim to introduce the children to the widest range of
experiences, both inside and outside the classroom. Therefore, visits to places of interest
and visitors (such as theatre companies, story tellers, musicians, science workshops) form
an integral part of a topic and are often used as a spring board for the children’s learning.
We believe that children learn best by doing and discussing and the thematic approach to
learning enables teachers to employ a variety of teaching styles to encompass the many
learning styles that children possess.
Our emphasis is on extending the range and quality of achievement for every child. Each
child is given the opportunity to express him/herself in a variety of media and
achievement is celebrated through careful display of children’s work.
Our school curriculum, therefore, meets the requirements of every child as he/she
develops in skill, understanding and knowledge, whilst meeting the requirements of the
LEA’s curriculum policy and the National Curriculum. Procedures are in place to meet
and/or exceed targets set by the National Assembly of Wales.
5
Every pupil receives access to a curriculum that seeks to promote:
� the development of a lively and enquiring mind;
� the development of a wide range of skills;
� the development of personal qualities, values and attitudes;
� the acquisition of and a desire for high moral values, and an acceptable standard
of behaviour;
� a sympathetic understanding towards others.
School numbers at each age will determine whether classes are single or mixed age. Class
teachers have the responsibility for delivering all aspects of the curriculum and class
teachers are responsible for the pastoral care of all pupils in their class. The main purpose
of pastoral care at Blaengwrach Primary School is to provide support for the development
of learning in addition to providing positive role models, in order to promote active
learning and caring relationships. Each class is supported by a part-time teaching
assistant.
All pupils are registered twice a day i.e. in the morning at 8.50a.m. and in the afternoon at
12.55p.m. and it is essential that pupils are in school in time for Registration. Class
teachers support and monitor the academic and social progress of each pupil and they are
the first point of contact between home and school and it is to the class teacher that any
parental concerns or enquiries should be addressed, in the first instance.
There are qualified First Aiders on the staff and a formal procedure is carried out when
illness or an accident occurs on site. This will always involve ensuring not only the pupil's
well being, but also that the parents are informed at the earliest opportunity. It is important
therefore, that all parents provide an emergency contact telephone number. Part of the
medical service provision includes screening for hearing and sight difficulties, as well as
dental services. These are all subject to parental consent and detailed information is always
provided in advance.
School Security
Gates are closed during the school day and doors are secured during lesson times. Children
who arrive after Registration are expected to ring the doorbell for access into the school
building. All visitors to the school are expected to report to the Reception area where they
are signed in and out of the premises.
Regular Health and Safety checks are carried out by the school and external agencies.
All staff and helpers / friends of the school are CRB checked.
6
USE OF THE WELSH LANGUAGE
All pupils study Welsh as a second language. The emphasis is on oral proficiency, but the
children also learn to read and write in Welsh. The school has the services of a peripatetic
teacher to assist the staff in delivering the curriculum requirements and teaching staff
attend appropriate courses concerned with the delivery of Welsh as a second language.
An ethos, which celebrates the culture and heritage of Wales, is promoted within the
school. Welsh artists, musicians, poets, writers, sportspersons and celebrities, are
identified in subject Schemes of Work. Likewise, the history and geography of Wales are
studied, usually at first-hand, through planned themes. Welsh hymns and songs, as well
as traditional dances, are sung and performed in assembly or concerts.
CURRICULUM ARRANGEMENTS FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION
Within the school, we aim to support all pupils and cater for the specific needs of pupils
with Additional Learning Needs. Children with learning difficulties are identified as early
as possible, so that all staff are aware of the needs that have to be met, in line with the
Code of Practice.
The school's resources and expertise are engaged in providing an appropriate learning
environment to meet the child's needs. For those children who have minor learning
difficulties, class teachers differentiate much of the work to match the child's ability and
problems. Children who have greater learning difficulties are often provided with
individual programmes of work, some receive extra tuition in groups, or as individuals.
Parents are fully informed and involved in the school's response to the needs of their child.
Those children with learning difficulties, for whom the school feels additional help is
required, are brought to the early attention of outside agencies i.e. Special Educational
Needs Advisory Teachers, Educational Psychologists etc. The school's Special Educational
Needs Co-ordinator and child’s teacher, will liaise with the parents of children with
Special Educational Needs, often in conjunction with the Head Teacher.
Children who have a Statement of Special Educational Need, in line with the 1981
Education Act, may receive individualised help for part of the school day, usually in their
own class or in a quiet area. There is no Special Class. Children who have been identified
as having learning difficulties are on a Special Needs Register, in line with the SEN Code
of Practice 2000. These children have an Individual Education Plan developed by the
Special Needs Co-ordinator and the child’s class teacher.
The organisation of the school curriculum, with its emphasis on personal achievement,
supports and enables all children, including those who could be termed as gifted, to
progress to the best of their abilities.
7
PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES
The school has an Accessibility Plan, which outlines the arrangements made for pupils
with disabilities. Parents of children with disabilities are welcome to visit the school with
their children, to discuss admission arrangements and view the provision on offer. Every
opportunity is taken to prevent pupils with a disability from being treated less favourably
than other pupils.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES / RACE EQUALITY
It is the duty of the Head Teacher and the Governing Body to promote equal opportunities
and good relationships and we operate an Equal Opportunities Policy and Race Equality
Policy for all pupils and staff. We recognize the uniqueness of each individual and value
the contribution of every person, to the school and wider community. We are opposed to
discrimination on the grounds of race, gender, disability or ability. The school has
adopted the policies in line with the L.E.A.
ADMISSIONS
Children are currently eligible for admission to school on the Monday following their
third birthday, provided there are places available. Families with children due to start in
the Nursery will be contacted by letter, inviting them to visit the school prior to
commencement.
Any child resident within Blaengwrach Primary School's catchment area will
automatically be entitled to attend the school.
All requests for admission of children from outside the school's catchment area must be
made in writing, using the Preferred Placement forms available at the school. All such
requests will be considered at the next available Governors' meeting and will depend on
there being sufficient space available, in the class concerned.
Prospective parents are invited to contact the school to arrange a visit during school hours,
not only to meet the Head Teacher and staff, but to sample the working atmosphere of the
school.
8
BEHAVIOUR AND DISCIPLINE
Good behaviour is established and maintained within a caring atmosphere in which
everyone’s safety, needs, rights and responsibilities are considered. Our policy is based on
the earning of mutual respect. When relationships are broken through misbehaviour,
every attempt is made to repair and rebuild, through investigation of incidents, followed
by appropriate guidance. Sanctions may be applied to help some pupils develop self-
discipline skills. Sanctions include verbal reprimand, losing part or all of a playtime or in
very extreme cases, exclusion.
It is our belief that it is part of the parents’ role to instill a sense of right and wrong into
their child from the earliest age and to teach then how to behave properly. With this in
mind, the Code of Conduct of the school is firmly rooted in self-discipline and mutual
respect for others and their property.
Parents will always be informed should behaviour become a problem and in all such
situations it is the expectation that full parental support and co-operation will be
forthcoming, to ensure the well-being of the child.
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY
Regular attendance is vital to maintain good progress. Research shows that children with
good attendance levels make better and faster progress than those with poor attendance.
The school operates a First Day Response system, whereby parents/carers should report
the nature of the child’s absence, early on the first day and keep the school informed
should the absence be extended. If the school is not notified early on the first morning,
then the school will ring the home to establish the reason for absence.
Persistent absence/lateness will be monitored and if necessary, will be referred to the
Education Welfare Officer. Punctuality is considered to be extremely important and
parents are asked to ensure that children arrive at school with adequate time to prepare
themselves for the forthcoming session.
Children are rewarded half termly, termly and annually for good attendance, with
certificates and a prize for 100% attendance.
No child is allowed to leave school early unless collected by a parent or some other
responsible adult whom the parent has nominated.
9
HOMEWORK POLICY
Homework is an essential part of the learning process and the school operates a scheme
known as K.I.T. (Keeping In Touch). All parents/carers will receive a copy of the
Home/School Agreement explaining the aims. Parents are asked to sign an agreement (the
Home/School Agreement) with the school, agreeing to implement the Homework Policy.
Appendix 1 - page 18 - Home/School Agreement
Parents of the younger children are asked to listen to their children read daily and to share
stories with them. As children become more fluent, parents are still asked to make time for
their children to read daily and to show an interest in the books their children are reading.
Homework consists of any relevant work set by the teacher for completion at home.
Parents are encouraged to make comments in the K.I.T. Book regarding progress being
made or problems encountered. The type of homework frequently set includes reading,
spelling lists, multiplication tables, work not completed in class etc.
The amount of homework will vary, and will depend upon the age and ability of the child.
This Keeping In Touch process is seen as an essential method of maintaining the daily
communication between home and enables the child to see that he/she is at the centre of
the partnership.
SEX EDUCATION
Sex Education is taught as part of the curriculum at Blaengwrach Primary School and is
taught in context, incorporating health and Personal and Social Education, through
relevant topics. All pupils are, from an early age, made aware of the concept of birth
through relevant discussion that arises in their Topic work and children are given
information as is deemed appropriate to their stage of development. Children’s questions
are dealt with sensitively and accurately.
PSE (Personal and Social Education) has become an integral part of the curriculum and
projects/topics that the children are engaged in and issues of a sexual/personal nature are
built in to the planning of the curriculum.
Year 6 pupils are given direct instruction regarding puberty, by the school nurse and the
class teacher, with the use of a DVD and commercially produced books and texts. The
teaching is delivered In single-sex groups, but both groups receive the same information.
All topics are based on the idea of the family as the main unit for caring relationships and
reproduction.
Parents are invited to view the materials used and are invited to view the more detailed
syllabus that is available at the school. Whilst bearing in mind the above statements,
parents have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of Sex Education
provided. Any parents wishing to exclude their children should contact the Head Teacher
to discuss the issue further. The recommendations of the L.E.A. have been considered and
adopted.
10
ARRANGEMENTS FOR RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND
COLLECTIVE WORSHIP
Religious Education plays a central role in the work of the school, to promote the spiritual,
moral, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils for the opportunities,
responsibilities and experiences for fulfillment as a child and later adult life.
It is a requirement of the 1988 Education Act that a Religious Education syllabus should
reflect the fact that religious traditions in Britain are, in the main, Christian, whilst taking
account of the teaching and practices of the other principal religions.
The aims of Religious Education at Blaengwrach Primary School, are that our young
people should learn about traditional belief systems and human experience. This includes
the study of religious traditions and the exploration of their own beliefs and values,
learning from this study in terms of their own human development in its personal, social,
moral and religious diversity and in terms of the community to which they belong.
Assemblies take a wide variety of forms and are delivered by the children, members of
staff or visiting speakers.
Daily collective worship occurs for all pupils. It is delivered through the whole school or
class assemblies. If any parent wishes, for religious reasons, to exclude their child from
Collective Worship, please make an appointment to see the Head Teacher to discuss the
situation. Children who are exempt from Collective Worship will be provided with
alternative activities within their classroom.
BULLYING
It is our wish that every pupil experiences a happy, supportive and positive time in our
care. Any complaint of bullying be it physical or psychological, is fully investigated by
sympathetic staff and usually brought to an acceptable conclusion. Parents are urged to
inform the school as soon as possible, should there be areas for concern.
Children are made aware of what the school constitutes as bullying and are constantly
reminded through role models, role play, assemblies, circle time, carpet discussions etc., to
care for each other and respect the feelings of others. A ‘Playtime Buddy’ system is in
operation, to offer help to children who feel vulnerable in the playground.
11
SCHOOL COUNCIL
The school has an active School Council made up of children who have been elected by
their peers. Children have a voice within the school and are regularly consulted on issues
that have been raised by the children themselves.
ECO-SCHOOL
There are many firmly established practices and new initiatives, that make our school eco-
friendly. We have an enthusiastic ECO-Committee and the school is firmly committed to
acquiring the Green Flag.
HEALTHY SCHOOL
The school is publicly recognized as having Healthy School status as part of the Welsh
Assembly Government’s Healthy Schools Scheme. The school has many practices in
operation to promote the health and well being of all its children and staff.
MEALS IN SCHOOL
Breakfast Club is free and available to all children. Cereals, fruit, toast and a drink is
served from 8.00a.m. to 8.30a.m. Children may take part in a variety of table top games
etc., after eating breakfast, until they are taken to rejoin other children at 8.40a.m.
Morning Tuck Shop is open from 10.30a.m. to 10.45a.m. and sells a variety of fruit.
Lunch is prepared in and served from the school kitchen adjacent to the Infant Hall.
Dinner money is paid on a Monday or Friday, unless the child is in receipt of free school
meals. Children are able to bring a packed lunch to school, if parents so wish and we
would urge parents to choose healthy options in keeping with our Healthy School status.
An After School Club, from 3.20 to 5.30p.m. operates on a daily basis, for a nominal
charge, providing after school care for pupils of parents who require the facility.
12
PARENTAL PARTNERSHIP
All parents are welcome in school at any time, but it is wise to make a telephone call first.
If the teacher or Head Teacher is concerned about any child’s progress and/or behaviour,
parents are informed as soon as possible, so that problems can be solved together.
Throughout the year, opportunities are given to all parents to visit the school to discuss
their child’s progress with the teacher. Details of these appointments will be notified to
parents throughout the year.
There is a successful Home/School Association, which is affiliated to the National
Confederation of Parent Teacher Associations and is a considerable support to the school.
Parents who wish to become actively involved in the Home/School Association should
contact the Head Teacher. New members are always warmly welcomed.
Parents regularly help in the classrooms and assist with visits into the community and
further afield. Any parents wishing to offer assistance are invited to contact either the
Head Teacher or a member of staff. All offers of help are positively received.
All parent helpers / friends of the school are CRB checked as a matter of routine.
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINE TO PUPILS
The administration of medicine is at the discretion of the school. As you can appreciate
the administration of medicines places an even greater role of responsibility on members
of staff, therefore we insist that parents/carers adhere to the procedures set out.
Appendix 2 - page 19 - Medicine Administration Permission Form
No medication will be administered unless authorised by parent/carer.
CHARGES AND REMISSIONS POLICY
In principle all education should be freely available to all children. There will be times
however, when parents will be asked to make voluntary contributions for theatre visits,
cost of transport and entrance fees for educational visits and visiting music/drama groups.
Whenever possible, the school fund will cover the cost of visits connected with the school
projects, sports matches, swimming galas and athletics meetings. Children whose parents
do not contribute will be allowed to participate in line with the 1988 Education Act.
Similarly, children whose parents receive Family Income Support are exempt from
contributing.
13
Goodwill however, is necessary if activities are to continue. The staff try to keep financial
requests to a minimum without restricting the range of educational experiences offered.
Extra curricular activities, residential education and outdoor education, play a vital role in
the learning process at Blaengwrach Primary School and as such, we trust that you will
continue to support such worthwhile activities.
Charges may be made for extra curricular activities that occur outside the school day.
Charges will only be applied when absolutely essential and will not exceed the cost of the
provision.
SPORTING AIMS AND PROVISION FOR SPORT
We aim to develop in our pupils a positive attitude to sport whilst promoting an
enjoyment of the challenge and physical demands of sporting activities. We seek to
achieve this through the mandatory curriculum subject of Physical Education which
includes athletics, gymnastics, dance, swimming and games. We believe that P.E. fosters
team spirit and the development of skills. We aim to give pupils of all abilities, the
opportunity to participate in all activities.
Within our policy of catering for the whole child, we endeavor to offer all our pupils a
wide range of regular sporting opportunities. These include: gymnastics, netball, rugby,
athletics, football, short tennis, skipping, hockey, cricket and golf as part of the curricular
provision.
The school is well resourced to deliver the P.E. curriculum and has ample space, including
a playing field. The school also has use of the local Community Hall for indoor activities.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Extra curricular work is seen as vital to the development of the whole child and the school
offers a wide range of extra curricular activities at different times including:
Golf Hockey
Rugby Athletics
Netball Art
Drama Football
Skipping Gardening
There are public performances of Music and Drama annually.
Pupils are encouraged to attend residential courses at Margam Park Sustainable Centre,
the URDD Camp at Llangrannog and the URDD Centre at Cardiff Bay.
A selection of the above activities are only available to pupils of a certain age range.
Details can be obtained from the Class Teacher or Head Teacher.
14
SCHOOL UNIFORM
BOYS GIRLS
Black/grey trousers Black/grey trousers/skirt
Burgundy jumper/sweatshirt Burgundy jumper/sweatshirt/cardigan
School tie - burgundy and gold School tie - burgundy and gold
White shirt/polo shirt White shirt/polo shirt
Black shoes Black shoes
During the summer months tailored shorts and white polo shirts, or the pink and white
summer dress may be worn as an alternative.
A tie need not be worn during the summer term.
A selection of good quality school uniform is available to purchase from the school at
competitive prices. Book Bags are also available.
Please ensure that all articles of clothing are clearly marked with your child’s name, to aid
identification.
The wearing of jewellery, other than watches and stud earrings, is not allowed, as it is
often a hazard to safety, or could become lost. No jewellery should be worn during P.E. or
games lessons, as under these conditions, jewellery could cause severe injury.
All children are required to bring a P.E. kit for P.E., games and dance lessons. This may
consist of shorts and appropriate tee shirt for indoor P.E. Indoor P.E. lessons may be
undertaken in bare feet; however 'daps' or trainers may be worn, if preferred.
For outdoor games, training shoes are required, with perhaps a sweatshirt and jogging
bottoms during the winter months.
Whilst attending swimming sessions, suitable bathing costumes should be provided for
boys and a one-piece costume for girls.
15
SCHOOL OPENING TIMES
School officially starts at 8.50a.m. and children must be in their classes ready for work and
registration by this time. Arrivals after 8.50a.m. will count as a 'late mark' on the register.
Children may arrive from 8.40a.m. onwards and come straight into their classes. No
children will be expected to wait outside in the morning after 8.40a.m. We encourage
children to make good use of time from the moment they arrive at school.
Parents are respectfully requested to leave prams/buggies/pushchairs etc. outside the
school buildings when bringing older children into school or collecting them. We
appreciate the support of parents in this request.
Lunch is at 11.55a.m. and ends at 12.55p.m.
School finishes at 3.20p.m.
Children will always be looked after in school should a parent be delayed.
Dinner Money Routines
Dinner money will be collected on Monday or Friday mornings. We ask that your child
bring the appropriate sum of money to school in an envelope (or similar), clearly marked
with the amount and the child’s name. There is a Dinner Money box in your child’s
classroom to receive the monies. Refunds or change will be adjusted or returned as
appropriate. Any queries or concerns may be discussed with the School Secretary whose
office is situated in the Junior block.
TRANSITION TO COMPREHENSIVE PHASE EDUCATION
At the age of 11, (Year 6), pupils usually transfer to Llangatwg Community School. Ample
opportunities exist, where the Year 6 children are able to visit Llangatwg on a variety of
occasions e.g. sporting activities such as rugby, netball, hockey, athletics meetings, where
the children of all the feeder schools meet and get to know each other.
Pupils also attend a timetabled curriculum based ‘taster’ day.
Parent Evenings are also arranged at Llangatwg, when parents and children are given a
tour of the school and are invited to discuss concerns, queries etc. The Head Teacher and
Pastoral Staff also visit us at Blaengwrach Primary School, so that pupils have ample
opportunity for discussion about their forthcoming transition to the secondary phase of
their education.
Year 6 pupils also receive tuition in a Modern Foreign Language, when a language
specialist from Llangatwg, works with pupils on a fortnightly basis, instructing them in
French/German. Year 6 pupils also make use of the P.E. facilities available at Llangatwg,
when appropriate.
16
INSPECTION OF DOCUMENTS
Documents required to be available by Regulation may be inspected and where
appropriate, copied at the school, during school hours, by arrangement with the Head
Teacher.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
The Freedom of Information Act 2000, requires all publicly funded bodies, including
schools, to be clear about the information they publish. Governors have produced a
publication scheme setting out all the information we publish on a regular basis and
where to find the information. The publication scheme is available from the school office.
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE
If you are concerned about matters relating to school or your child, please contact the
Head Teacher. If the Head Teacher cannot help, you should contact the Chairperson of the
Governing Body (see information at the front of the Prospectus). In the last instance,
complaints are to be taken to the Local Education Authority. Any parent dissatisfied with
the school's curriculum arrangements may obtain a copy of the formal complaints
procedure from the main office at the school, or by contacting the Head Teacher.
17
BLAENGWRACH PRIMARY SCHOOL
PHOTOGRAPHING AND VIDEOING CHILDREN POLICY Blaengwrach Primary School in conjunction with
Children’s Act 1989 – revised 2004 The Protection of Children Act 1999
Education Act 2002 All Wales Child Protection Procedures 2008
has implemented the following procedures on photographing and videoing pupils at Blaengwrach Primary School.
� It is the policy of the school not to allow the taking of photographs or video films of children at the school by individuals, other than those designated by the school.
� The designated photographer will be CRB checked and screened by the
Governing Body.
� Every effort will be made by school staff to provide a designated photographer on those occasions deemed appropriate. The final decision as to the appropriateness of the occasion will rest with the Head Teacher.
� Written permission must always be sought from the parent / carer, of every
child, before the photographs / videos are taken. If this permission is not received from the parent / carer, then the child in question needs to be withdrawn from the photographs, or if this is impractical, then the photographs / videos may not be taken.
Photographs / Videos taken by the Press and Educational Agencies for publication or display:
� Written permission must always be sought from the parents / carers before the photographs / videos are taken. If this permission is not received from the parent / carer, then the child in question needs to be withdrawn from the photographs, or if this is impractical, then the photographs/videos may not be taken.
Designated member of staff for Child Protection - Ms Brenda Harrett Designated Governor for Child Protection - Councillor Mrs Carolyn Edwards Revised Summer Term 2008 Presented to Governing Body 14/07/08
18
A
P
P
E
N
D
I
X
1
19
Blaengwrach Primary School
Please note: All medication must be in the original container as dispensed
by the pharmacy.
Date (s)
Pupil’s Name
Class
Medication
Details
Dosage Time to be given
Date Parent / Carer
Signature
Date Staff Signature
Additional
Information
Administered By
Date
Medicine Administration
Permission Form
APPENDIX 2
20
Blaengwrach Primary School Ysgol Gynradd Blaengwrach
Head Teacher/Prifathrawes: Heol Wenallt Ms B Harrett Cwmgwrach Castell Nedd Tel/Ffôn: (01639) 720342 SA11 5PS Fax/Ffacs: (01639) 720342 [email protected]
Educating For Life Now Sgiliau Yfory, Heddiw
Dear Parent / Carer
FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN TERM TIME / PUNCTUALITY As you are aware pupils of school age must, by law, attend school regularly. If your child is away from school, you need to inform us immediately, either by telephone or letter. FAMILY HOLIDAYS Please do not ask for leave of absence for a family holiday in term-time if you can possibly avoid this. If you have absolutely no alternative, other than going on holiday in school time, then please can you: � Give the school a minimum of 3 weeks notice prior to your child being absent. � Avoid absences, during October if your child is in Year 5 and the month of May for all
full time school pupils. Schools do not have to agree to absences for holidays, however, we have the power to do so. Any more than ten school days holiday in any academic year cannot legally be authorised unless in exceptional circumstances. We will consider every request for leave, individually. Parents / Carers are requested to complete the appropriate form, which is available from school. The most important consideration, is the effect an absence would have on your child’s education. The Head Teacher has the discretion to allow work to be provided for your child whilst they are away.
21
If we do agree to a holiday in term-time, it is vital your child returns to school promptly. If a child fails to return to school on an agreed date and no valid reason is provided, we may remove your child from the school register. Therefore, your child would no longer have a place at school. In this instance you may need to apply to a new school, possibly outside of your local catchment area. PUNCTUALITY The school day begins at 8.50am prompt. All children should be in school and in class, ready to begin the day, promptly at 8.50am. Lateness is causing us great concern, as it not only disrupts your child’s education, but that of the other children in the class too. Any disturbance, during this important time of the day, when the class teacher is giving information to pupils or outlining their tasks, is very disruptive for all concerned. Being continually punctual shows commitment and is an important life skill, which will stand your child in good stead for a future in the workplace. Continual lateness will result in a visit from the Education Welfare Officer. Please be aware that absences and lateness during term-time can have a very disruptive effect on your child’s continuity of learning and consequently there is a risk of underachievement. Please make every effort to support your child.
Thanking you for your continued support. Yours sincerely B. Harrett
Please be aware that all relevant forms are available from the
Admin Office - Junior Department.
22
As a parent or carer, you should fill in this form if you want to take your child out of school during term time to go on an annual holiday. After completing the form, please return it to the Head Teacher no less than three weeks before the date when you want the period of absence to start. The conditions under which leave of absence for term time holidays may be granted are contained in Regulation 8 of The Education (Pupils Registration) Regulations 1995 and Sections 38 - 42 of School Attendance: Policy and Practice on Categorisation of Absence 1994. Schools may decide whether or not to authorise leave of absence for a family holiday. Parents or carers should not expect such leave to be granted as of right. Permission will not be given if it is applied for after the holiday has taken place. Normally, a pupil shall not be granted more than two weeks leave of absence in any academic year.
I request that Year
(Name of child)
be granted leave of absence
from to
in order to take part in an annual holiday.
Signature of Parent / Carer Date
Blaengwrach Primary School Ysgol Gynradd Blaengwrach
APPLICATION FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE FOR ANNUAL HOLIDAY
Head Teacher/Prifathrawes: Ms B Harrett
Educating For Life Now Sgiliau Yfory, Heddiw
23
COMPARATIVE REPORT – KEY STAGE 1 SUMMARY OF THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM ASSESSMENT RESULTS OF PUPILS IN THE SCHOOL (2009) AND NATIONALLY (2008) AT THE END OF KEY STAGE 1, AS A PERCENTAGE OF THOSE ELIGIBLE FOR ASSESSMENT.
N D W 1 2 3 4+ 2+ ENGLISH School 0 0 4 16 76 4 0 80 100 National 0 0 4 14 63 19 - 82
Oracy School 0 0 4 0 96 0 0 96 100 National 0 0 2 11 63 24 0 87
Reading School 0 0 4 36 44 16 0 60 100 National 0 0 4 15 55 26 0 81
Writing School 0 0 4 16 76 4 0 80 100 National 0 0 5 16 68 11 - 79 CYMRAEG School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 National 0 0 1 10 64 24 - 89
Oracy School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 National 0 0 1 10 65 24 - 88
Reading School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 National 0 0 2 16 60 21 - 81
Writing School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 National 0 0 3 20 66 11 0 77
MATHEMATICS School 0 0 4 8 88 0 0 88 100 National 0 0 2 11 65 22 - 87
Using and Applying Maths School 0 0 4 48 48 0 0 48 National 0 0 3 16 65 17 - 82
Number & Algebra School 0 0 4 8 88 0 0 88 National 0 0 2 12 65 21 - 86
Shape Space & Measures School 0 0 4 16 68 12 0 80 National 0 0 2 11 67 20 - 87
SCIENCE School 0 0 4 0 96 0 0 96 National 0 0 2 9 66 23 0 90
Scientific Enquiry School 0 0 4 36 60 0 0 60 National 0 0 2 13 66 20 0 85
Life Processes & Living Things School 0 0 4 0 96 0 0 96 National 0 0 1 7 64 28 0 92
Materials & their Properties School 0 0 4 0 96 0 0 96 National 0 0 2 8 67 23 0 90
Physical Processes School 0 0 4 0 96 0 0 96 National 0 0 2 9 66 22 - 89
Core Subject indicator
The percentage of pupils attaining at least Level 2 by teacher assessment in either English or Welsh (first language), Mathematics and Science in combination.
School : 76 National: 81
4+ represents Levels 4 and above D represents disapplied under sections 364 or 365 of the Education Act 1996 W represents working towards Level 1 N not awarded a level for reasons other than disapplication - Not exactly zero
24
KEY STAGE 1
Percentage of Boys at each Level
N D W 1 2 3 4+ 2+
English
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 8 31 62 0 0 62
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 5 17 62 16 0 78
Cymraeg
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 2 13 64 20 0 85
Mathematics
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 8 8 85 0 0 85
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 3 12 62 23 - 85
Science
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 8 0 92 0 0 92
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 2 10 64 24 0 88
Percentage of Girls at each Level
N D W 1 2 3 4+ 2+
English
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 92 8 0 100
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 2 10 64 24 - 87
Cymraeg
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 1 7 64 28 0 92
Mathematics
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 8 92 0 0 92
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 1 10 69 20 - 89
Science
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 100 0 0 100
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 1 7 69 23 0 92
4+ represents Levels 4 and above D represents disapplied under sections 364 or 365 of the Education Act 1996 W represents working towards Level 1 N not awarded a level for reasons other than disapplication - Not exactly zero
25
Summary of National Curriculum Assessment results of pupils in the school (2009) and nationally (2008) at the end of Key Stage 2 as a percentage of those eligible for assessment.
Core Subject Indicator*
School 86.67
National 76
D indicates pupil disapplied under sections 364 or 365 of the Education Act 1996 W indicates working towards level 1 (Teacher Assessment only) N indicates pupils not awarded a level for reasons other than disapplication * Percentage of pupils achieving Level 4 or above in English or Welsh (first language), Mathematics and Science in combination. - Not exactly zero
N D W 1 2 3 4 5 6+ 4+ School 0 0 0 0 0 13 73 13 0 87 English
National 0 0 1 1 3 16 51 29 - 80
School 0 0 0 0 0 20 73 7 0 80 Oracy
National 0 0 1 1 3 15 51 30 0 81
School 0 0 0 0 0 7 13 80 0 93 Reading
National 0 0 1 1 3 16 48 32 0 80
School 0 0 0 0 7 20 60 13 0 73 Writing
National 0 0 1 1 4 21 50 23 0 73
School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Cymraeg National 0 0 1 1 4 17 53 24 - 77
School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oracy
National 0 0 1 1 4 15 53 27 - 80
School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Reading
National 0 0 1 1 5 17 50 27 0 77
School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Writing
National 0 0 1 1 6 24 51 17 - 68
School 0 0 0 0 0 13 73 13 0 87 Mathematics National 0 0 1 1 3 15 51 30 0 81
School 0 0 0 0 13 0 80 7 0 87 Using & Applying Mathematics National 0 0 1 1 4 22 48 24 0 73
School 0 0 0 0 7 7 73 13 0 87 Number & Algebra
National 0 0 1 1 3 15 50 31 0 81
School 0 0 0 0 0 13 67 20 0 87 Shape, Space & Measures National 0 0 1 1 3 14 52 30 - 82
School 0 0 0 0 0 7 80 13 0 93 Handling Data
National 0 0 1 1 3 16 51 29 0 80
School 0 0 0 0 0 13 67 20 0 87 Science National 0 0 1 1 2 11 54 32 - 86
School 0 0 0 0 0 20 60 20 0 80 Scientific Enquiry
National - 0 1 1 3 17 51 28 - 80
School 0 0 0 0 0 0 67 33 0 100 Life Processes & Living Things National 0 0 1 0 2 11 52 34 - 87
School 0 0 0 0 0 7 73 20 0 93 Materials & their Properties National 0 0 1 0 2 12 53 31 - 85
School
0 0 0 0 0 13 73 13 0 87 Physical Processes
National - 0 1 1 2 13 54 30 0 84
26
KEY STAGE 2
Percentage of Boys at each Level
N D W 1 2 3 4 5 6+ 4+
English
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 40 40 20 0 60
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 1 1 4 19 52 23 - 75
Cymraeg
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 1 1 5 20 54 18 0 72
Mathematics
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 40 20 40 0 60
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 1 1 3 15 49 31 0 80
Science
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 40 40 20 0 60
Teacher Assessment: national 0 0 1 1 2 13 52 31 0 84
Percentage of Girls at each Level
N D W 1 2 3 4 5 6+ 4+
English
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 90 10 0 100
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 0 0 2 12 51 35 0 85
Cymraeg
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 0 0 3 14 53 29 - 82
Mathematics
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 0 100
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 0 0 2 14 54 29 - 83
Science
Teacher Assessment: school 0 0 0 0 0 0 80 20 0 100
Teacher Assessment: national - 0 0 0 1 10 56 32 - 88
D indicates pupil disapplied under sections 364 or 365 of the Education Act 1996 W indicates working towards level 1 (Teacher Assessment only) N indicates pupils not awarded a level for reasons other than disapplication * Percentage of pupils achieving Level 4 or above in English or Welsh (first language), Mathematics and Science in combination. - Not exactly zero
27
ATTENDANCE
GROUP SUMMARY
ACADEMIC YEAR 2008 -2009
AUTUMN TERM 01/09/2008 - 19/12/2008
Group Total No
of Pupils
Authorised Absences Unauthorised Absences
No of
Pupils
% of
Pupils
% of
Sessions
No of
Pupils
% of
Pupils
% of
Sessions
Rec/Year 1 24 22 91.7 8.4 0 0.0 0.0
Reception 13 13 100.0 7.6 0 0.0 0.0
Year 2 26 21 80.8 5.0 0 0.0 0.0
Year 3/4 HT 24 20 83.3 7.5 7 29.2 1.1
Year 3/4 SH 24 23 95.8 7.7 1 4.2 0.1
Year 5 24 21 87.5 7.0 0 0.0 0.0
Year 5/6 22 17 77.3 5.8 0 0.0 0.0
School 157 137 87.3 6.9 8 5.1 0.2
SPRING TERM 05/01/2009 - 03/04/2009
Group Total No
of Pupils
Authorised Absences Unauthorised Absences
No of
Pupils
% of
Pupils
% of
Sessions
No of
Pupils
% of
Pupils
% of
Sessions
Rec/Year 1 24 22 91.7 6.6 1 4.2 0.1
Reception 13 9 69.2 4.5 0 0.0 0.0
Year 2 26 22 84.6 6.1 0 0.0 0.0
Year 3/4 HT 25 22 88.0 7.2 4 16.0 0.7
Year 3/4 SH 24 19 79.2 8.0 1 4.2 0.2
Year 5 24 19 79.2 5.0 0 0.0 0.0
Year 5/6 22 13 59.1 4.1 0 0.0 0.0
School 158 126 79.7 6.1 6 3.8 0.2
SUMMER TERM 20/04/2009 - 20/07/2009
Group Total No
of Pupils
Authorised Absences Unauthorised Absences
No of
Pupils
% of
Pupils
% of
Sessions
No of
Pupils
% of
Pupils
% of
Sessions
Rec/Year 1 24 20 83.3 8.7 6 25.0 0.7
Reception 13 13 100.0 10.6 0 0.0 0.0
Year 2 25 21 84.0 7.8 6 24.0 0.4
Year 3/4 HT 25 21 84.0 10.0 7 28.0 1.7
Year 3/4 SH 25 21 84.0 8.2 3 12.0 0.5
Year 5 25 19 76.0 8.0 1 4.0 0.1
Year 5/6 22 14 63.6 4.1 1 4.5 0.2
School 159 129 81.1 8.1 24 15.1 0.6
28
ATTENDANCE
WHOLE SCHOOL SUMMARY
ACADEMIC YEAR 2008 -2009
AUTUMN TERM Sessions %
Attendances 21735 72.4
Authorised Absences 1750 7.4
Unauthorised Absences 38 0.2
Possible Attendances 23523
Including
Lates before registration closed 407 1.7
Lates after registration closed 31 0.1
SPRING TERM Sessions %
Attendances 18293 93.4
Authorised Absences 1276 6.5
Unauthorised Absences 28 0.1
Possible Attendances 19597
Including
Lates before registration closed 388 2.0
Lates after registration closed 23 0.1
SUMMER TERM Sessions %
Attendances 17495 90.7
Authorised Absences 1690 8.8
Unauthorised Absences 109 0.6
Possible Attendances 19294
Including
Lates before registration closed 306 1.6
Lates after registration closed 25 0.1
2008 - 2009 Sessions %
Attendances 57523 92.2
Authorised Absences 4716 7.6
Unauthorised Absences 175 0.3
Possible Attendances 62414
Including
Lates before registration closed 1101 1.8
Lates after registration closed 79 0.1
29
NEATH PORT TALBOT COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
School Terms and Holiday Dates
2010 / 2011 Academic Year
Mid Term Holiday
Term Term Begins Begins Ends Term Ends Days Autumn 2010 Wednesday
1st September*
Monday
25th October
Friday
29th October
Friday
17th December
73
38+35
Spring 2011 Tuesday
4th January
Monday
21st February
Friday
25th February
Friday
15th April
69
34+35
Summer 2011 Tuesday
3rd May
Monday
30th May
Friday
3rd June
Thursday
21st July
53
19+34
Total 195
Schools will close to pupils for INSET/Staff Preparation on five days between Wednesday, 1st
September, 2010, and Thursday, 21st July, 2011.
The dates to be determined by schools.
*It is strongly recommended that Wednesday, 1st September, 2010 is designated
an INSET/Staff Preparation day.
New Year Bank Holiday - 3rd January, 2011
Good Friday - 22nd April, 2011
Easter Monday - 25th April, 2011
May Day - 2nd May, 2011
Spring Bank Holiday - 30th May, 2011
Summer Bank Holiday - 29th August, 2011