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WELCOME TO DOWNS VIEW

2013/2014

Headteacher Adrian Carver

Tel: 01273-601680 office@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk www.downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk

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A letter from the Headteacher . . . . . . page 3 General Information . . . . . . . . page 4 School Staff . . . . . . . . . page 7 Governors . . . . . . . . . page 12 A Positive Choice . . . . . . . . page 13 Mission Statement . . . . . . . . page 14 Aims of the School . . . . . . . . page 15 Why Choose Downs View . . . . . . . page 16 Standards and Achievements . . . . . . page 17 The School Day . . . . . . . . page 18 Admissions Procedure . . . . . . . page 19 Parental Involvement . . . . . . . page 20 Parental Support Counselling Service. . . . . . page 20 Child Protection Procedure . . . . . . . page 21 School Documents . . . . . . . . page 21 Attendance . . . . . . . . . page 22 Change of Address . . . . . . . . page 22 Transport Arrangements . . . . . . . page 23 Home/School Communication . . . . . . page 23 Arrangements to Visit the School . . . . . . page 23 Parental Contributions . . . . . . . page 24 Working with Other Agencies . . . . . . page 25 Medication . . . . . . . . . page 28 School Meals . . . . . . . . page 28 Special Needs Policy . . . . . . . page 29 Equal Opportunities . . . . . . . . page 30 Behaviour and Discipline . . . . . . . page 31 Clothing and Belongings . . . . . . . page 32 The Curriculum . . . . . . . . page 33 Primary Department . . . . . . . . page 34 Secondary Department . . . . . . . page 35 Further Education Department . . . . . . page 36 Accreditation Schemes. . . . . . . . page 37 Duke of Edinburgh Awards . . . . . . . page 37 A.S.C. Department . . . . . . . . page 37 Planning and Record Keeping . . . . . . page 39 Annual Reviews . . . . . . . . page 39 Staff Training . . . . . . . . . page 40 Sex Education . . . . . . . . page 40 Religious Education and Collective Worship . . . . page 40 Extra Curricular Activities . . . . . . . page 41 Complaints . . . . . . . . . page 41 Links with the Local Community . . . . . . page 42 Inclusion page 43 School Leavers . . . . . . . . page 44 School Calendar . . . . . . . . page 45 OFSTED Report . . . . . . . . page 46 Parent Carer’s Council . . . . . . . page 57

Contents

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Dear Parents, Carers and Friends, I am pleased to write these few words of welcome on behalf of the Staff, Governors and Pupils of Downs View School & Downs View Link College. Our Link College at Varndean opened in April 2006 for all Brighton & Hove’s 16 to 19 year olds with severe learning difficulties and complex needs, and in common with the main school in Woodingdean is working outstandingly well. We are delighted that our outstanding work has been recognised recently both by Ofsted and Specialist schools and academies Trust. The latter confirming Research Charter mark Status on us from September 2011. Starting a new school can be a daunting experience, but please be assured that we will do everything we can to make the transition as smooth as possible. We are clear that we seek to support both the pupil and their family in a strong partnership. This prospectus has been designed to help you find out about the school and college, its Staff, Governors and Pupils. I hope that it is informative and gives you something of the ‘flavour’ of our provision. This document is relevant to both sites but there is an additional Link College information document available for students and their families. A number of our pupils have care placements either on a full time or shared basis. This prospectus is written for all parents and carers, however, for the ease of writing, the term parent will be used to encompass all carers involved with each pupil. Downs View aims to promote an effective, safe and happy learning environment where high standards of hard work and sensible behaviour are the expected norm. Obviously no one booklet will convey everything you might want to know, so please feel free to ask questions, make comments and above all come to see us and talk to the staff. We hope that your son or daughter will enjoy and benefit from his or her experiences here.

Adrian Carver

A Letter from the Headteacher…

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GENERAL INFORMATION Type of School: LEA Maintained Community Special School

Specialist School & College – SEN Communication & Interaction

Age Range: 4 – 19 Years

Places: 120 Chair of Governors: Jill Sawyer Tel: 01273 601680 Headteacher: Adrian Carver Tel: 01273 601680 With the development and opening of Downs View Link College in April 2006, Downs View School now consists of two large sites, separated by four miles. Below is some general information about the structure and leadership of the school which has been put in place to manage this expansion. The main site is in Woodingdean; Downs View School Warren Road Woodingdean BRIGHTON East Sussex BN2 6BB Telephone: 01273 601680 Fax: 01273 699420 Our second site is adjacent to Varndean College; Downs View Link College Surrenden Road Brighton BN1 6WQ Telephone: 01273 507719 Fax: 01273 559751

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As Headteacher, to lead and manage Downs View I need to balance my time between our two sites. To contact me, do telephone the main school number or alternatively my email is adrian.carver@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk. The school has two deputies who are in charge of the two sites on a day to day basis; Rachel McDonald-Taylor – Deputy Head/Head of School – Woodingdean rachel.mcdonald-taylor@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk Hilary Muston – Deputy Head/Head of Link College – Varndean hilary.muston@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk Administratively all business (finance, buildings, personnel, pupil administration) will be managed from the Woodingdean site through Helen Mendoza (School Business Manager) helen.mendoza@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk. All administration relating to the pupils at Woodingdean will be dealt with by Sandy Austen, Alice Conti or Nicki Buttress and by Caroline Funnell at the Link College. All admin staff can be contacted via our office email system; office@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk.

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GENERAL INFORMATION (Woodingdean)

School Doctor: Dr. Chapman Tel: 01273 265799

Dr. Livesey Tel: 01273 265782 Dr Carter Tel: 01273 265799 Dr. Monteolivia Tel: 01273 265784 Dr Anderson Tel: 01273 265783 Dr Sundrum Tel: 01273 265830

School Nurse: Louise Loadsman Tel: 01273 696011 ext 3250 Transport Officer: Katie Elias

Tel 01273 293501 Speech and Language Nicola Featherstone

Therapist: Margaret Shaw Rebecca Richardson

Physiotherapist: Hayley Caulkett Tel: 01273 265763 Occupational Therapist: Lesley Harding Louise Taylor Tel: 01273 265806 Ext 5778

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SCHOOL STAFF Leadership Team Headteacher Adrian Carver

Deputy Headteachers ) Rachel McDonald-Taylor – Head of School ) Hilary Muston – Head of Link College School site Senior Teacher Tim Dunkerley

Link College Senior Teacher Ian Stephenson Lead Teachers Autism Sadie Gillett Research, Innovation Hilary Chappell & Pupil Progress Numeracy / Literacy Kimberley Oliver PSHE Juliet Hudson Communication Beatriz Moreno

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SCHOOL STAFF

Primary Badgers Teacher Hannah Winstone / Hilary Chappell Lead Teaching Assistant Pam Mitchell Teaching Assistants Julie Jeffries Kerry Plummer Sarah Robinson Butterflies Teacher Ro St John Lead Teaching Assistant Barbara Catt Teaching Assistants Laura Huxtable Becy Müdd Danielle Willoughby Foxes Teacher Claire Hill / Gemma White Lead Teaching Assistant Jessica Whitington Teaching Assistants Wendy Proctor Lou Rutter Karen Strong Squirrels Teacher Jude Smith Lead Teaching Assistant Debbie Williams Teaching Assistants Carol Morgan Becky Müdd Lorraine Millar Alicia Tolhurst Hayley Wootten Hedgehogs Teacher Kimberley Oliver Lead Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistants Lisa Dalton April Healy Sophie Law Owls Teacher Daniel Whiley Lead Teaching Assistant Arnie Strong Teaching Assistants Lynn Flower Heidi Groves Brenda Jones Paula Williams Rabbits Teacher Lauren Boal Lead Teaching Assistant Alison Dawson Teaching Assistants Sam Gray Helen Francis

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Secondary 3L Teacher Laureen Casement Lead Teaching Assistant Andrew Newman Teaching Assistants Trish Goodwin Yvonne Howard Jill Pearson Alice Peters 3J Teacher Julia Nicholson Lead Teaching Assistant Julie Paice Teaching Assistants Sharon Jasper Rob Kipling Carol Marshall Nickie Poulton 4B Teacher Beatriz Moreno Lead Teaching Assistant Debra Nailard Teaching Assistants Sandra Brooks Baker Ashley Channon Lewis Stanley Matt Stone 4T Teacher Tim Dunkerley Lead Teaching Assistant Allyson Dovey Teaching Assistants Lisa Graffin June Brill Mandy Wells

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Link College Staff Year 12 Teachers Juliet Hudson Lead Teaching Assistants Natalie Channon Teaching Assistants Jane Garrett Natalie Leeson Raul Ortiz Glen Peckham Julie Sagar Jill Rowan Year 13 Teachers Lyn Coorg Paul Thacker Sally Ruane Lisa Campbell-Squires Lead Teaching Assistant Raul Ortiz Teaching Assistants John Bickmore Lou Birch Monica Buggy Denise Dennis Marian Everitt Joe Flitton Linda Grinyer Christine Mihocic Juliet Miller Jill Rowan Denise Sudlow Debbie Whiteman Year 14 Teachers Nick Sell Lead Teaching Assistant Polly Bolton Teaching Assistant Trudie Baker Denise Sudlow Julie Sagar Debbie Whiteman PMLD Teacher Jackie Hutchings Lead Teaching Assistant Penny Macnamara Teaching Assistants Jim Harwood Clair Ivimey Mick Proctor Lou Birch ASC Teacher Ian Stephenson Lead Teaching Assistant David Stone Teaching Assistants Jane Garrett Kim Davidson Leech Jack McDowell Tracey Vincent

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Administration School Business Manager Helen Mendoza Administration Officers School Sandy Austen Nicki Buttress Alice Conti Link College Caroline Funnell

‘Inside Out’ Supported Employment Donna Muzzall Administrative Assistant Midday Supervisory Assistants – Downs View Theresa Andrews - Senior MDSA Jennifer Ranger Rosemary Ball Charlotte Rawlinson Estelle Birch Frances Ross Caroline Boostani Mani Selvaraju Emma Douglas Diane Smith Suzanne Dumbrell Sue South Linda Farmer Karen Steele Debbie Gatehouse Diane Walker Olga Harper Nikki Woolven Donna Healy Midday Supervisory Assistants – Downs View Link College

Claire Gardiner Simon Smith Sue Holder Lisa Standing Gillian Mahboob Marie Yandall

Site Manager Octave Smith Cleaners Geraldine Gill Albert Weller Caroline Pontin Keith Hughes Carol Brain Monica Barnes Emma Hall

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GOVERNORS The Governors are seen as the key force linking the school with the wider community. Their role is essential in the smooth running of the school. To contact the governors you can email them governors@downsview.brighton-hove.sch.uk. GOVERNING BODY Chair Jill Sawyer George Butterworth Robert Metcalf Adrian Carver Amanda Mortensen Barbara Catt Eddie Murphy Julie Champion Kimberley Oliver Harriet Hildick-Smith Glenn Peckham Sally Howell Sue Warner Associate Governors Helen Mendoza Gillian Churchill Rachel McDonald-Taylor Hilary Muston Philip Harland Eric Mayne Clerk GOVERNOR SURGERIES At certain times during the school year, representatives from the Governing Body make themselves available for parents to discuss any issues relating to the school. Further details are given through the Parent Newsletters.

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A POSITIVE CHOICE

Downs View is a purpose-built day special school for pupils aged 4 to 19 years, who have severe learning difficulties. Some pupils have additional disabilities such as autism, hearing and/or visual impairment, physical disabilities and challenging behaviour. The School is situated on two sites; one on the outskirts of Brighton in Woodingdean, the principal location and the Link College, four miles away, in the Surrenden area of Brighton. The School and Link College combined cater for approximately 120 pupils, all of whom have a Statement of Educational Need. The school buildings have excellent facilities including generously well proportioned, well equipped classrooms, Food Technology Rooms, Science/Technology Rooms, Art Room, Library, Hydrotherapy Pool, Sound and Light Studio, Soft Room, computer room and an Adventure Playground. We also have a communication & interaction assessment room. The Woodingdean site is on three levels; and the Surrenden site on 2 levels, a lift ensures access for all pupils. Downs View has four minibuses, which are used for educational visits and residential holidays. All buses are fitted with inertia seat belts and have hydraulic tail lifts, enabling easy access for pupils in wheelchairs.

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MISSION STATEMENT

At Downs View School we promote an ethos which demonstrates mutual respect for all pupils and staff. We expect high standards of behaviour and all staff adopt a consistent and agreed approach based on the understanding of self and others. Every member of staff without exception has a part to play in establishing and maintaining a positive and supportive culture. This will include having positive expectations of pupils, having respect for all, providing good social role models for pupils, constantly looking for ways to celebrate achievement, and to enjoy and have fun in school. We will encourage all children and staff to be sensitive to the needs and feelings of others and show respect for other cultures and beliefs. Partnerships with parents and the local community are actively encouraged and equality of opportunity will be fully promoted.

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AIMS OF THE SCHOOL

1. To enhance the development of each child in all areas of their lives, and to

assist towards the realisation of maximum potential. 2. To give each pupil access to a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum,

with an emphasis on the provision of positive learning experiences. 3. To provide a secure, happy and stimulating environment, conducive to an

all-round education, which acknowledges the wide range of learning difficulties within the school.

4. To encourage care and consideration for those around us. 5. To encourage high and consistent standards of behaviour for all pupils, to

enable them to benefit fully from the educational provision available to them.

6. To develop knowledge, skills and attitudes which will enable each pupil to

function with increased autonomy and happiness within the community. 7. To assess each pupil’s special educational needs as accurately as

possible, involving other agencies as required. 8. To work with parents, professionals and the community as joint partners in

the education of the pupils.

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WHY CHOOSE DOWNS VIEW? As with any school, the fundamental aim is the provision of a high quality of education of the pupils in our care, but education in a positive, secure and caring environment. Our absolute commitment to quality has been demonstrated through our ‘Outstanding’ inspection judgments in 2009 and 2012, attaining SEN Specialist Schools Status in Communication & Interaction (September 2009), and the Research Charter Mark in 2011. At the heart of our success is the high quality of our staff relationships with the broader family not just the child. The needs of the individual pupil are paramount and thanks to the generous staff/pupil ratio, they can be planned and catered for. Class sizes vary but an average class would compromise, one teacher plus three teaching assistants with seven or eight pupils. In addition to this ratio, staff from various support services such as the Educational Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist, Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist regularly visit the school, as do Teachers of the Visually and Hearing Impaired.

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STANDARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS

Downs View is very proud to have achieved the following awards & Standards • Parent Carers’ Council – Have recognised Downs View School for

their outstanding contribution to provide a level of care to our children that is above the call of duty.

• Specialist School – The Specialist Schools & Academies Trust has

recognised us as a specialist school in communication and interaction. • Research Chartermark – The Specialist Schools & Academies

Trust has recognised our development of research work in relation to pupil engagement

• Healthy Schools – An exciting long-term initiative that promotes the

link between good health, behaviour and achievement. • Arts Council Arts Mark Silver Award – for provision of a broad and

varied Creative Arts curriculum across the school, i.e. music, dance, drama and visual arts.

• Chartered Standard Schools – commitment to supporting

students with coaching and development skills in football.

• ContinYou - Building learning communities by showing a commitment to extending schools activity especially the inclusive drumming and performance club.

• Green Apple Award – given for built environment and architectural

heritage and sustainability of building.

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THE SCHOOL DAY 8.50 – 9.00 Pupils Arrive 9.00 – 9.05 Registration

Morning Session begins 12.00 – 12.45 Primary Lunch

Secondary Leisure Time

12.45 – 1.25 Primary Leisure/Play Time Secondary Lunch

1.30 Registration Afternoon Session begins

3.15 Pupils Depart from School

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HOME AND SCHOOL ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES The majority of nursery aged pupils are referred by the Special Educational Needs team at Kings House to Downs View following a period of assessment at PRESENS. It is the policy of the Local Education Authority not to admit a pupil without a completed Statement of Educational Needs, unless the pupil has been placed at the school on an assessment basis. Pupils can be admitted, following referral from the Special Educational Needs team at any stage in their school career. This may occur for any one of a variety of reasons. For example, families may move into the area; a child’s needs may no longer be met appropriately in his or her current school. The admission of pupils beyond nursery age is, therefore, also accommodated whenever possible, following an appropriate amendment to their Statement of S.E.N. The school has recently supported the Local Education Authority’s initiative to re-integrate pupils from agency schools into local provision. Additional resources have been provided by the authority to enable us to meet the specific needs of these pupils. The legal context for the L.E.A. to propose placement to a school such as Downs View is included within the 1993 code of Practice (para 4.41). Pupils will be admitted to Downs View School subject to the following conditions: • the placement is appropriate to the child’s needs • their admission is compatible with the interests of other children at the

school • and there is an efficient use of the L.E.A.’s resources.

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PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT It is essential for a high quality of education and care that parents are actively involved in the work of the school. It is good for children to know that their parents are interested in the school and their education. We believe the best team consists of the child, the parent and the teacher working together. Parents are welcome to visit the school at any time, although telephoning beforehand to make an appointment is very helpful and much appreciated. A detailed Annual Review is written each year which constitutes the annual report for the child and parents are invited into school to discuss their child’s progress. A home visit can be made at the request of parents or may be suggested by a member of staff. There are 3 Parent Consultation Evenings during the year to which parents are invited to discuss their child’s Individual Education Plan with the class teacher. We are most grateful for your support on these occasions. We will always contact parents immediately if we are concerned about any aspect of their child’s welfare, progress or behaviour and we hope that parents will let us know of any problems or anxieties which might affect their child. In addition we welcome help from parents in school. Parents can help with the preparation of teaching materials, horse-riding, swimming; they can listen to pupils read, help at coffee mornings or become involved in fund raising events. In fact, we are always open to suggestions, so please tell us how you think you can contribute. We do realise that many parents are only able to offer help occasionally. PARENTAL SUPPORT COUNSELLING SERVICE The Parental Support Counselling Service developed in October 1999 and has evolved into an established element of the school. The service is a unique initiative which offers counseling to parents, carers and siblings of pupils from Downs View School and other parents from the Brighton & Hove area that have children with special needs. From the exceptionally positive feedback we have received the counselling service has been very beneficial to those who have used it and forms part of the School’s strong links with parents

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CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURE The school has a duty to take reasonable action to ensure the welfare and safety of its pupils. In cases where staff have cause to be concerned that a pupil may be subject to ill treatment, neglect or other forms of abuse, the school will follow the Local Authority Safeguarding Procedures and inform Social Services of their concern. All staff are subject to vigorous disclosure and barring checks and annual training on Safe Guarding & Child Protection. SCHOOL DOCUMENTS All parents connected with the school have a right of access to all documentation specifically relating to their child. Parents also have a right of access to the following documents: • the school curriculum framework • the National Curriculum and associated documentation • any published OFSTED reports which refer specifically to the school • the arrangements for the consideration of complaints about the school

curriculum. • the school’s SEN policy • the school’s Sex and Relationship Education Policy • the school’s Behaviour and Discipline Policy • the school’s Equal Opportunities Policy

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ATTENDANCE If a pupil is absent from school we ask parents to contact your minibus driver as well as the school office on the first day of absence before 8am. The school undertakes to follow up any unexplained absences as quickly as possible and the co-operation of parents is greatly appreciated. The attendance figures for 2012/ 2013 were as follows: Percentage of school age on roll for at least one session 92.64% Percentage of pupil sessions missed through authorised absence 7.08% Percentage of pupil sessions missed through unauthorised absence 0.28% Parents are asked not to send children to school who are feeling unwell in the morning. If a child falls ill or has an accident while at school we will make arrangements for parents to be informed. In cases of emergency children will be taken to hospital and parents will be asked to meet the nominated member of staff at the hospital as soon as possible. In cases of sickness and diarrhoea all students are to be kept away from school for at least 48 hours after the last occurrence of the illness. All students are expected to take part in the Physical Education and swimming programme. A note or medical certificate should be sent prior to any withdrawal from these activities. CHANGE OF ADDRESS Parents are asked to inform the school office immediately of any change of address and/or telephone number. It is vitally important that parents inform the school of any changes to the emergency contact numbers. We operate a text messaging system to inform all parents of specific issues (eg school closure due to snow). It is therefore important that we always have parent mobile phone numbers.

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TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS Transport, is subject to assessment by the local authority but is usually provided for all pupils attending the school who require it. The transport rules & system are organised by Brighton and Hove Council and not by the school. If parents have any particular concerns about their child’s transport arrangements they should discuss these with the Transport Officer,– Tel: 293501. We would be happy to discuss any difficulties you are experiencing with transport arrangements, but the final decision about transport arrangements lies with the Local Education Authority. If we consider the students are able and after consultation with parents they are taught through a comprehensive programme to travel to school using public transport and a free bus pass is provided. HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION If a pupil finds it difficult to communicate verbally we encourage the use of home/school books, which are very useful to both parents and staff. These can be used to encourage the development of communication skills and draw information from the pupil about interesting events or activities which they experienced at either home and school. These books are an essential element of our joint working with parents. We also publish a weekly information sheet and termly newsletter. ARRANGEMENTS TO VISIT THE SCHOOL Parents wishing to visit the school prior to applying for a place should contact the school office, to make an appointment to see the Headteacher.

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PARENTAL CONTRIBUTIONS The curriculum of a special school such as Downs View requires that concepts, skills and attitudes fostered in a school are reinforced in the community. This is an expensive exercise in terms of fuel for the minibuses, ingredients for food technology, learning to use public transport etc. Although we do not charge parents for activities which take place during the school day, parents are asked to make a voluntary contribution towards the above aspects of the curriculum. Parents are under no obligation to contribute and no pupil at Downs View School will be discriminated against. However, in the event that funds/contributions do not meet the cost of certain activities, they may be cancelled for the whole group. For those activities which take place outside the normal school day, such as residential visits, appropriate charges will be made. Please contact the school if you have any concerns about the arrangements for parental contributions.

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WORKING WITH OTHER AGENCIES

There are many other agencies, therapists and professionals who work with the pupils and their families at Downs View. Senior staff meet regularly with all professionals to consider how effectively services are working with our pupils and families. School and college staff are very experienced in the daily delivery of therapy programmes assessed and designed by our therapists. Consultant Paediatricians We hold regular clinics with the consultant paediatricians for pupils based at both sites on a weekly basis. All pupils will have a medical during the year, parents will be notified of the arrangements and invited to attend. Permission will be sought for the medical to take place. School Nurses Nurses have been assigned to the organisation and attend all medicals. They are also available for consultation with parents on any medical matters relating to their child.

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Speech and Language Therapists The Speech and Language Therapists usually visit for a total of 3 ½ days per week, to work with individuals small groups and with the school staff on communication programmes. Programmes are developed by the therapist for individual and group work to enable staff to maintain regular including daily input.

Physiotherapists The physiotherapists visit the school fortnightly. The physiotherapist works with individual pupils and small groups of children and advises staff on programmes to be carried out on a regular basis including daily in the classroom. Occupational Therapist Works on similar basis to the physiotherapist, in assessing and working with school staff. Audiometrician A doctor, and two audiometricians visit the school on a regular basis to assess pupils’ hearing.

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Teachers from the Sensory Needs Service (Hearing/Visual Impairment) Specialist teachers visit the school to support the education of a small number of pupils and to provide advice, special aids and related materials. Educational Psychologist There is a psychologist who works with the school. Referrals to this service are made for a variety of reasons; e.g. if a pupil is not progressing as well as might be expected. Alternatively it might be felt that another placement would be more beneficial. The Educational Psychologists are also invited to contribute to discussion relating to behaviour management programmes for individual pupils. Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) A specialist nurse and consultant psychiatrist hold regular consultations with staff and parents about particular children with additional behavioural or mental health issues. Music Therapist Music therapy is offered to those pupils who are assessed as requiring this therapeutic intervention. This may be on a weekly basis or as part of a small group. Some pupils have weekly input but for periods of one term.

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MEDICATION We are willing and very competent to administer medication in school either on a long or short-term basis. However, we do require parents to make a written request, on a Medication Consent Form, these are available from the office. Medicines must be supplied with their original labels to ensure the correct dosage is given. Asthmatic pupils should keep an inhaler in school at all times. Downs View staff are very well trained to meet the very complex medical needs of pupils with profound/multiple learning difficulties. Children with epilepsy will have anticonvulsant medication administered as prescribed and emergency medication when required. Please remember that NO MEDICINES OF ANY TYPE CAN BE GIVEN WITHOUT PARENTAL CONSENT. If you have any concerns regarding medication, please telephone the school. SCHOOL MEALS School meals are cooked on the premises and served in the school hall. A small number of pupils eat lunch in their classrooms, where they can be more closely supervised. Dinner money is currently £10.50 per week and can be paid via Parent Pay (an online service). Alternatively, dinner money may be paid by cheque. Please ensure that dinner money is securely contained within an appropriately marked envelope, i.e. the child’s name, class and the amount enclosed. All cheques should be made payable to Brighton & Hove Council. Free school meals are available depending on personal circumstances. If your child is eligible for free school meals please apply online at www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/onlinefreeschoolmeals. If your child does have free school meals this is confidential. Contact person: Nicki Buttress in the school office.

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SPECIAL NEEDS POLICY Downs View School has a comprehensive Special Needs Policy. The following represents a summary of some of the main points. The full document is available to parents on request. • The main focus of the school is to meet the teaching and learning needs of

the pupils. • Teachers and support staff recognise the individual needs of pupils as set

out in the Statement of Educational Need. • Precise individual educational and social targets are set to fulfill that

statement. These targets are known to all involved with the pupil and are reviewed three times a year in direct consultation with parents.

• The close partnership between Staff, Governors and Parents is seen as

the key to the successful education of our young people.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES It is Downs View School’s intention to develop attitudes and ways of behaving which respect individuals regardless of their race, culture, gender, disability or social circumstances. The school is unequivocally opposed to any form of discrimination and it seeks to form a partnership with staff, Governors and parents to provide equal opportunities for all pupils. RACE EQUALITY AND CULTURAL DIVERSITY The school welcomes its duties under the Equalities Act and we are committed to: ♦ promoting equality of opportunity ♦ promoting good relations between members of different racial, cultural and

religious groups and communities ♦ eliminating unlawful discrimination

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BEHAVIOUR & DISCIPLINE BEHAVIOUR POLICY The school has a Behaviour Policy Document, which is sent to all parents. Please contact the school office, if you have not received a copy. The whole emphasis of our policy is placed upon appropriate behaviour and pupils are consistently rewarded for achievement, effort and experiences. The management of difficult behaviour is maintained on an individual basis, in full consultation with parents. Advice is also sought where necessary from CAMHS and or psychologists. Corporal punishment is not permitted under any circumstances. Pupils have detailed behaviour support plans which enable staff and parents to manage what can be challenging behaviour at times with consistency and success. The school and college staff give the dignified and respectful treatment of all pupils at all times absolute importance. BULLYING We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all our pupils, so they can learn in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. An anti-bullying statement forms part of our Behaviour and Discipline Policy and any incidents will be dealt with quickly and effectively. If you are worried that your child is being bullied in school, please do not hesitate to contact us immediately. If you believe your child is being bullied within your local community, please talk to us, we maybe able to help.

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CLOTHING & BELONGINGS CLOTHING We have a school sweatshirt, Cardigan and polo shirt, which are available for purchase. We encourage pupils to wear the school sweatshirts and polo shirts as it gives a sense of community identity. This is particularly important in the light of the amount of inclusive working we undertake. Parents are requested to ensure that pupils are suitably dressed in comfortable, washable, manageable clothes together with an outdoor coat. ALL GARMENTS MUST BE CLEARLY NAMED. P.E. KIT Children require shorts, T-shirt, plimsolls or trainers, and a bag in which to keep them in. Swimwear and a towel may either be kept in school or sent in on relevant days. Class teachers will inform you of swimming session days and times. JEWELLERY Students are not encouraged to wear jewellery, but may wear a watch, a pair of stud earrings and any items relating to the students’ religion. In the interest of safety, other items of jewellery are not to be worn in school. PERSONAL BELONGINGS Unless a specific written agreement has been made with class teacher valuable personal items must not be brought into school or college. Parents should note that the school cannot accept liability for the loss or damage of personal property.

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THE CURRICULUM The curriculum offered at Downs View is related both to the needs and entitlement of the pupil and the requirements of the National Curriculum. We offer a diverse, challenging and interesting curriculum to all pupils. It is thereby intended that the children learn those things which: • are within their understanding • are useful to them individually • give them the best opportunity of adapting to the society in which they live. All National Curriculum areas are appropriately addressed according to the pupils’ ability, and the majority of pupils at Downs View are working towards and within levels 1 and 2. Particular emphasis is placed upon the development of personal, social and health education, self-help skills and upon language and communication development. We try to encourage, at a level appropriate to individual pupils, the skills of decision making, responsibility for self and others, social awareness and social competence. The curriculum is also designed to develop the important areas of both communication and behavior which are central to a fulfilling life. The school is divided into three departments, comprising a total of 11 classes on the Woodingdean site and 6 at the Link College, in which pupils are grouped according to age and specific need.

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PRIMARY DEPARTMENT The Primary Department comprises of three Early Years classes and four other class groups. Pupils who have profound and multiple learning difficulties are fully included within the class groups. Within the Primary Department there is particular emphasis on the development of early concepts, language skills and patterns of social interaction through both formal and informal play activities. A broad range of Early Years Foundation Stage and National Curriculum subject areas are linked together by termly class topics, which are further enhanced by educational visits to relevant places of interest. Makaton is the signing system used within the school, and everyone gains a basic knowledge of it, if not to help themselves then to help others. It is invaluable in curtailing the frustrations of children with language impairment, and assisting the development of early concepts. In order to enhance the pupils’ ability to relate effectively to people and the world around them, the curriculum approach for pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties focuses upon the development of general awareness and responsiveness. The development of early communication, self help skills and physical mobility is enhanced not only through speech, physiotherapy and occupational therapy but also on emphasis on a sensory approach to the PMLD curriculum. A pupil’s response to sensory stimulation, such as a pattern of colourful lights, music, different textures, sounds, smells etc. could indicate pleasure or displeasure, recognition or anticipation of a familiar sensory experience, routine or person.

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SECONDARY DEPARTMENT Within the secondary department there are four groups of students, each with one teacher and three or more teaching assistants. Pupils who have profound and multiple learning difficulties are fully integrated within the class groups. Currently and historically all pupils move on to the Downs View Link College – our further education provision - following a comprehensive transition programme. In the Secondary Department, pupils are encouraged to develop a greater sense of independence and responsibility for others. Pupils are still working within the National Curriculum framework with the addition of French at Key Stage 3. Pupils in years 10 and 11 work towards national accreditation within the ASDAN Transition Challenge Award. Achievement is recorded in the context of programmes of study for Key Stage 4 National Curriculum subjects. These modules are supported by activities that contribute to the skills of adult living.

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FURTHER EDUCATION PROVISION Pupils start at Downs View Link College in Year Within the Brighton and Hove area the Link College provides a combined three-year course. The provision is split into three-year groups, years 12, 13 and 14 and educates all students within SLD, PMLD, and ASC who are between 16 – 19 years of age. Students at the Link College are expected to be able to cope with a very wide programme. About a third of their time is spent out in the local community, engaging in link courses with local sixth form colleges, or on vocational experience placement. Following specific training, a number of students come in and go home on public transport each day. The students take part in a range of extra curricular activities include Summer barbecues, visits to the cinema and local youth groups, ten pin bowling and outdoor pursuits.

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The Link College students follow a range of nationally accredited courses and these include: OCN – Open College Network All Students at the Link College take part in a programme of modules which are nationally accredited. The modules are structured over the 3 year program. Duke of Edinburgh Awards Pupils in Years 10 - 14 have the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. There are four areas to the award: • Service – to encourage service to others • Expeditions – to encourage a spirit of adventure and discovery • Skills – to encourage the development of personal interests, social and

practical skills • Physical Recreation – to encourage participation in physical recreation and

improvement of performance. Pupils have the potential to continue with the award up to the age of 25 and this can therefore offer some continuity and progression into colleges and post – 19 opportunities. A.S.C. DEPARTMENT There is usually one ASC class per key stage, which caters for pupils whose needs fall within the Autistic Spectrum Condition Continuum. Class groups have a high pupil/teacher ratio, usually one teacher and four teaching assistants per class group of six pupils. The teaching and learning policy in the A.S.C. department is designed to respond to both the individual needs of the children and also to offer a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum, including the National Curriculum. Most teaching is conducted on a one to one basis; where group teaching takes place it is in the context of regular and predictable routines taking into account the behavioural and intellectual characteristics of the children in the group. The class teacher having in mind the educational needs and the behavioural characteristics of the child devises one to one sessions. In broad terms these must take into account the child’s existing interests, his/her tolerance of interaction style and session length and the need to foster communication skills. Breadth and balance have to be considered in relation to the child’s existing skills. Aspects of existing “best practice” approaches are used where they are considered appropriate; as for example TEACCH,

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PECS, sensory integration, techniques derived from behavioural approaches and emphasis on physical activity. We have a recognised reputation for working very effectively with pupils with communication and interaction needs and the provision of effective augmentative communication techniques and devices (including high-tech voice output communication aids – ‘VOCAs’ & iPads).

There are many pupils with ASC included in teaching groups across the school and college. Staff from the ASC departments provide advice and support for teachers in other classes to facilitate the successful inclusion of ASC pupils. Sadie Gillett, has the lead teacher responsibility for ASC provision across the school and college.

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PLANNING AND RECORD KEEPING All teachers keep detailed files relating to aims and expectations for each pupil. The progress of each child is recorded and relates directly to their individual education plan and if appropriate an accompanying behaviour programme. We also assess the children against a nationally required system. “P” Levels using software “B Squared”. The levels enable us to track pupil progress over time. We also use the “Routes for Learning” programme for PMLD pupils. Class records are also kept and record details of topic work and coverage of the relevant schemes of work to ensure continuity and progression between class groups and across the key stages. ANNUAL REVIEWS The identification and review of individual needs are ongoing and carried out by the class teacher in conjunction with the parents and other professionals; individual education plans are designed accordingly. The pupils’ statements of special educational needs are reviewed formally every year. Contributions to this process are received from the parents and teacher and may also be provided by others involved with the pupils; educational psychologist, school doctor, physiotherapist, speech and language therapist, occupational therapist, community nurse, social worker, link or foster carer. Annual Review meetings also provide an excellent forum for extended discussion concerning pupil achievement and the wider needs of the family in relation to the special needs of the child. Formal assessments may be carried out at any point within the school year if required if a pupils needs appear to be changing. The annual review report constitutes our annual report to parents on a child’s progress. The year 9 annual (or transition review) is particularly important in that it requires all concerned to consider what the student may do in adult life so that an action plan can be created to fulfill that ambition. We have implemented a system of “person centered” transition reviews at Downs View which mean the pupils present and contribute (with support) to the review process.

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STAFF TRAINING All staff are committed to the quality and relevance of pupils’ learning experiences, and are involved in ongoing review and development of the curriculum, assessment and recording strategies. Staff development has a high profile within the school and the L.E.A., and staff have the opportunity to choose from a broad range of in-service training courses and activities as well as taking part in school based training. SEX AND RELATIONSHIP EDUCATION Sex and Relationship Education is taught within the contexts of both the Science and Personal, Social and Health Curriculum. It is concerned with health, hygiene, the development of socially acceptable behaviour and relationships with others. The programme which has been fully ratified by the Governors, is not taught in isolation but within a framework of a personal development programme dealing with the many aspects of growing up. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from the sex and relationship education sessions, except for that which is required as part of National Curriculum Science. Parents are invited to discuss any aspect of the sex and relationship education programme with the class teacher or Headteacher. They are also welcome to discuss the policy document, and view teaching materials and resources. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION & COLLECTIVE WORSHIP Religious education is an important part of the curriculum, and Downs View School currently follows the Brighton and Hove Syllabus, in accordance with the Education Act (1988). Parents are welcome to see the scheme of work. Religious education is part of the curriculum and we consider that the fostering of spiritual and moral values is the responsibility of every teacher and that they should permeate all aspects of the curriculum. Assemblies are held at least once a week, alongside daily acts of collective worship / time for reflection within the classroom. These are broadly, though not exclusively Christian in nature and sometimes involve the local clergy. Parents, who wish to exercise their right to withdraw their child from religious activities should contact the Headteacher, so that alternative arrangements can be made.

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EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES In addition to the many varied activities taking place on the timetable during school hours, pupils have an opportunity to take part in numerous activities both on and off the school site. These activities are varied and include events such as theatre trips, discos, football matches and after school clubs. Full use is made of the four school minibuses, two per site, with numerous educational and recreational trips. Parents will be informed in writing by the school in advance of any visit planned and permission sought. We seek to make all educational visits or journeys as inclusive as possible but some activities may not be accessible to all pupils. Staffing levels, risk assessments and physical accessibility as well as venue appropriateness will be taken into account in planning or offering opportunities. COMPLAINTS Complaints about any aspect of the curriculum or programmes offered will be dealt with as quickly as possible. Any concerns should, in the first instance, be discussed with the class teacher if possible. Parents are welcome to discuss any complaints with the Headteacher, who will endeavour to assist in resolving issues as quickly as possible in consultation with the class teacher and/or members of the Governing body as appropriate. Details concerning the procedures for more formal complaints are available from the School Management Support Team, Kings House, Grand Avenue, Hove, East Sussex. Tel. 01273 293526

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LINKS WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY A great deal of the school’s curriculum relates to the “real life” opportunities available within the local community. We are very fortunate to have a small parade of shops across the road from the school. A shopping expedition may, for example be used to teach road safety (pedestrian crossing), communication, social and number skills. Also situated within easy reach of the school is a Public Library, and we are on a main bus route into Brighton. We extend our curriculum links into the wider community, including swimming sessions at King Alfred’s Leisure Centre, Sports activities at Portslade Leisure Centre and Riding at Chestnut Riding Stables. Community Links are seen as a two-way process; many groups and individuals visit the school throughout the year, enriching the curriculum and widening the pupils’ appreciation of different people and their skills. Our Further Education students take part in vocational experience placements which may involve working with youngsters at a local playgroup. Downs View offers a wide range of vocational experience opportunities to mainstream students of secondary age with the Brighton area. Students come in for regular and specific periods of time to work alongside our staff and to gain experience in connection with their own courses and career aspirations. The school is also used as a training placement for N.N.E.B., nursing and teaching students. A number of research projects are carried out during the year, by students from the Universities and the medical profession. We will always seek parental permission before involving any pupil in a research project.

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INCLUSION Importantly we have very strong links with many local mainstream primary and secondary schools. We have many weekly inclusion opportunities as well as short inclusive projects with schools. Mainstream pupils also visit to work on joint curriculum projects at Downs View.

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SCHOOL LEAVERS Students are currently entitled to remain at Downs View School until the end of the school year in which they are 19. Prior to the students’ final years at school, the Annual Educational Review will focus on possible future placements, as part of the transition planning process. At this time a number of different agencies will be invited to contribute to the meeting and could include representatives from the Youth Employment Service, Social Services, Day Care Services, as well as school staff. Possible future placements depend very much on the needs of the student, and the availability of a facility which will be in the interests of the individual concerned. During the latter part of their final year, students will, whenever possible, undertake a planned link programme with the establishment to which they will be moving. To support this transition period, the school works very closely with you, as parents, the young person and the key agencies involved. A transitions caseworker will be allocated from the transitions team to support this process and provide a single point of contact, support and information for parents and families.

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SCHOOL CALENDAR 2013 Autumn Term Opens 3 September 2013 Autumn Half Term 28 October – 1 November 2013 Autumn Term Ends 20 December 2013 Christmas Holidays 23 December 2013 -

6 January 2014 2014 Spring Term Opens 6 January 2014 Spring Half Term 17 – 21 February 2014 Spring Term Ends 4 April 2014 Easter Holidays 07 April 2014 – 18 April 2014 Summer Term Opens 21 April 2014 Bank Holiday 5 May 2014 Summer Half Term 26 – 30 May 2014 Summer Terms Ends 23 July 2014

Inset Days 3 September There are 4 further dates to be set