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Welcome toSt Michael’s Primary School
Handbook 2017
MAK SICCAR
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Welcome from Headteacher 3and Parent Council Chair 3Letter from Director 4School Ethos 5Our School Motto 5Our Vision, Values and Aims 6
School Information 8Contact Us 8Staff Overview 9School Day 10School Uniform/Dress Policy 10St Michael’s School Uniform 11Promoting Healthy Eating 12
Tuck Shop 12Fresh Drinking Water 12Milk 12School Lunches 12
Transporting Pupils to School 14Playground Supervision 14Class Organisation 15Enrolment 15Moving on to Secondary School 16Catchment Secondary School 16Support Available 17What pupil data will be collected and transferred? 17
Home/School Partnership 18Communicating with Home 18Attendance 18Unexplained Absences / Lateness 18Holidays 19Positive Behaviour and Celebrating Success 20
Our Code of Conduct 20Traffic Light System 20
How is my child doing? 22Reporting to Parents 22Shared Learning (Homework) 23Pupil Assessment and Reporting 23Assessment is for Learning 23Pupil Profiles 24Helping your child 24
Parent Participation 25Helping in the School 25Parent Council 25
Contents
Social Events 26Fund Raising 26Disclosure Scotland 27
Complaints Against Teachers 27School Improvements 27Improvement plan and priorities 27
Educating Your Child 28Education Service in Dumfries and Galloway 28The Curriculum 30
Curriculum for Excellence 30Subject Areas 31Outdoor Learning 34Global Citizenship 35Eco Schools Scotland 36
Wider School Curriculum 36Additional Support for Learning 36Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) 37Child Protection 37Educational Psychology Service 38Home School Link Worker Service 38
Health and Safety 39 First Aid 39Medical Care 39Medication 39Intimate Care for Pupils 40Emergency Procedures 40Severe Weather and School Closure Arrangements 40Fire Safety 40Data Protection 41Images of Pupils 41Use of the Internet 41Personal Safety 41Care and Welfare of Pupils 41
Other Useful Information 42Pupil / Parent Support Unit 42Policies 42Terms and Holidays 43
St Michael’s Primary School - Mak Siccar
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Welcome from Headteacher and Parent Council Chair
Dear Parents and Family,
Welcome
We would like to warmly welcome you and your child to St Michael’s Primary School where the focus is very much on teamwork, with everyone doing all that they can to allow our children to work to their full potential.
At St Michael’s Primary we aim to provide a happy, stimulating and secure learning environment, that encourages positive working attitudes in all our pupils, and fosters respect and tolerance for the beliefs and opinions of others. This is reflected in our School Code of Conduct, which can be found in the first section of this booklet.
We believe that, to enable each child to achieve their full potential, it is important to develop and maintain a positive partnership between home and school. We strive to keep you fully informed of developments and there will be occasions when your thoughts are sought, as your views are very important in shaping the future development of the school.
This handbook is designed to give parents and carers an insight into our school, our priorities and expectations. We trust you find it interesting, and helpful in clarifying some of the many questions you may have regarding school life. However, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions or queries.
We look forward to having you and your child join us and developing an effective working partnership that ensures your child will have a happy, enjoyable and educationally rewarding experience throughout their years at St Michael’s Primary.
Yours sincerely
Mrs Thomson Mrs Kirsty HulmeMrs Hilary Thomson Mrs Kirsty Hulme Headteacher Parent Council ChairpersonSt Michael’s Primary School St Michael’s Primary School
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Letter from Head of Education
Dear Parents, Dumfries and Galloway Education Services is committed to delivering a high quality education for your child/ren. As part of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s overall vision we aim to provide all children and young people with a good start in life and prepare them for adulthood and employment.Education Services cannot deliver this alone for children and young people but work together with others and, as parents, you are one of our key partners. The research tells us that when parents are involved in their child’s education the child will do better. The school handbook is one of the ways in which we inform parents, not just about how the school works, but also about how you can help us help your children to succeed in school and life. It gives me pleasure as Head of Education to commend this handbook to you as an invaluable source of information about your school and Education Services. Yours sincerelyGillian BrydsonHead of Education
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School Ethos
Whilst taking account of Curriculum for Excellence the ethos of our school is set by our School Motto, Vision, Values and Aims which take account of the 4 Capacities where our children aspire to be
Successful Learners Confident Individuals Responsible Citizens
and
Effective Contributors
Our School Motto
MAK SICCARMAK SIC
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Our Vision, Values and Aims
St Michael’s Vision, Values and Aims Our School Vision, Values and Aims are on display in the school foyer and
throughout the school. All stakeholders were involved in drawing up our original Vision, Values and Aims statement in May 2008, which were then reviewed in September 2011 and February 2016 and will be once again
reviewed in 2020. On all occasions the response was very positive and we continuously strive towards achieving excellence.
Our Vision
At St Michael’s School we aspire to work together to create a stimulating environment which promotes high quality teaching and learning.
Our goal is to equip learners with the skills and confidence they need to reach their full potential and thrive in a global world
At St Michael’s Primary School We Value:
; Respect ; Celebrating Diversity ; Honesty ; Individuality ; Integrity
; Always believing in ourselves
; Kindness ; Equality and Fairness ; Team work ; High Aspirations ; Fun
Our Values
CONFIDENT INDIVIDUALSPupilsTo believe in yourself and always try your best.ParentsTo provide a solid, secure, emotional foundation which fosters self-belief and belonging.StaffTo help and support pupils to have a ‘can do’ attitude by promoting positive relationships within a learning, caring and inclusive school community.CommunityThrough the sharing of mutual values, help and support the school and its pupils by promoting mutual respect and understanding.
EFFECTIVE CONTRIBUTORSPupilsTo be proud to be able to work with all pupils in our class, not just our friends, and respect every member of the St Michael’s team.ParentsTo encourage parents and children to express their opinions and work efficiently together as a team to meet challenges positively.StaffTo support and develop a multi-agency approach to improve learning and encourage enterprise by nurturing creativity and innovation.CommunityTo build on community links and develop partnerships which support, encourage and further enhance the work we do.
Our Aims
SUCCESSFUL LEARNERSPupilsTo participate fully in all learning activities and have respect for others as they share their achievementsParentsTo be aware of what my child is learning and talk to them about their work and develop things further at home with positive feedback being given for effort.StaffTo encourage and challenge pupils to “Reach for the Stars” by making learning experiences meaningful for all.CommunityTo help and support pupils by encouraging self-confidence and strength of character in engaging with the community and the opportunities it has to offer.
RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSPupilsTo take responsibility for our own safety and behaviour and make people happy at St Michael’s.ParentsWhilst celebrating our own identity, we will respect other people’s beliefs, culture and property. We will understand that we live in a diverse country and all have positive contributions to make.StaffTo support and encourage children on their journey through life-long learning with the celebration of a progressive, diverse culture.CommunityTo encourage and provide positive role models for children in and out of school.
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St Michael’s Primary School - Mak Siccar
School Information
St Michael’s Primary School is a non-denominational school catering for pupils aged 4 – 12 years. Our school roll regularly sits at or is close to our capacity of 183. At present we have 7 classes (P1-P7).We want our school to be at the heart of the community and endeavour to build strong links by encouraging the community of St Michael’s to become involved in the life of our school.
Contact Us
School Name and Address St Michael’s Primary School Glebe Street Dumfries DG1 2LZ
Telephone Number (01387) 253058
School e-mail [email protected]
School website www.stmichael’sprimarydumfries.co.uk
Head Teacher Mrs H Thomson
Principal Teacher Mrs R Cubbon
Parent Council – Office Bearers (2016-17) Mrs K Hulme (Chairperson)Mrs K Paterson (Secretary)Mrs L Nosratzadeh (Treasurer)
Parent Council e-mail [email protected]
Dumfries and Galloway Council Address
Dumfries and Galloway Council School Services Woodbank 30 Edinburgh Road Dumfries DG1 1NW
Telephone Number - Reception (01387) 260427
Council website www.dumgal.gov.uk
Head of Education Mrs G Brydson
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Non-Teaching StaffClerical AssistantsMrs S GibsonMrs L Dodds
Learning AssistantsMrs C McGawMrs L Dodds Ms A O’Neil
Janitor and Playground SupervisorMr R Rivero
Kitchen Staff Mrs J McGill (Supervisor)Mrs S BaxterMrs Heather Cussell
School Crossing Patrol Mr S Bajwa Mr B Muirhead Vacancy
Cleaning Services Mrs C BellMrs E Gemmell
Regular VisitorsActive Schools Co-ordinatorMrs Senga Thomson
Educational Psychologist Mrs W Stoker
Police Liaison Officer PC C Trosh
School Nurse Mrs L Black
School DoctorVacancy
School Chaplain Dr M Bond
Staff
Teaching Staff Overview Teaching Staff
Head Teacher: Mrs H Thomson
Principal Teacher: Mrs R Cubbon
Teaching Staff: P1 Miss K Todd P2 Mrs C Bremner P3 Miss Rutherford P4 Mr C Carson P5 Miss Bodell P6 Mrs C Scott P7 Miss L Nicoll
Additional Support for LearningTeacher Mrs A Pattie
Visiting Specialist Teachers:Art Miss L McMichanMusic Mrs I RiddickP.E. Mrs J LawFrench Madam F Norell
Supply StaffFrom time to time it will be necessary to bring in staff to cover sickness and staff training. Over the year we try to build up a bank of reliable supply colleagues who are familiar to the children. Unless we need emergency cover for sickness your child will always be told when a supply teacher has been booked to take their class.
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Prior to drawing up the dress code, parents, pupils and staff were fully consulted and it is the expectation of the Education Authority that parents will be supportive of the dress code.
Clothing which is unacceptable in school under any circumstances would include items which:
; Could potentially encourage factions (eg football colours).
; Could cause offence (eg anti-religious or political slogans).
; Could cause health and safety difficulties such as loose fitting clothing, dangling earrings.
; Are of flammable materials which may be a danger in certain classes.
; Could cause damage to floors. ; Carry advertising, in particular for alcohol or
tobacco. ; Could be used to inflict damage on other pupils
Parents in receipt of a grant for footwear and clothing from the authority will be encouraged to purchase items which are in accordance with the school dress code. Guidance is available on Clothing Grants from Pupil / Parent Support Unit on http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/schools
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School Day
Primary 1-7
School Starts 9.00am prompt
Morning Interval 10.30am – 10.50am
Lunch (P1-4) 12.20pm – 1.00pm
Lunch (P5-7) 12.35pm – 1.15pm
School Closes 3.00pm
NB During the first week of the session, to allow for a short settling in period, Primary 1 pupils may attend in the mornings only.
PunctualityThe punctuality of pupils is more than just common courtesy – it is important to the smooth running of the school. Registration takes place at the start of the day, and staff use this valuable time to share with the children the plans for the day ahead. Persistent late coming is disturbing to any class and usually upsets the latecomer. If a pupil is constantly late for school, then the school will contact the Attendance and Liaison Officer, in line with authority policy.Parents are asked to support us in ensuring that their children are at school by 8.55am.
Due to staffing arrangements there is no supervision for children available before 8.40am.
Therefore children should not arrive at school before 8.40am.
School Uniform/Dress Policy
All Dumfries and Galloway schools must have a dress code which encourages pupils to dress in a way appropriate to attendance at school and we ask that parents support us in this.This code must not lead to direct or indirect discrimination on the grounds of race, religion, gender or disability. At St Michael’s we believe that the wearing of the school uniform encourages a sense of belonging and pride in our school. They also look very smart, it is more economical for parents and eliminates the competition which often arises with ‘fashion’ clothes.
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In the interests of safety, the children are asked to remove watches, necklaces, bangles and earrings before a P.E. lesson. It is helpful if children do not wear jewellery on P.E. days.Newly pierced ears should be taped.
A long sleeved overall or an old shirt should be provided for artwork as it is important that pupils should cover up before working with paint, glue etc. We cannot accept responsibility for damage caused. This ‘overall’ will be kept in school and washed regularly using our facilities within school.
For everyday wear most of our children opt to wear a polo shirt and sweatshirt. This is comfortable for both classroom and outdoor activities. However for formal occasions we ask that the children wear white shirts and ties. In the better weather children may wear shorts (dark coloured, no motifs please). Many of the girls choose to wear yellow gingham dresses, which can be purchased, from local stores.
We hold a small stock of ties, polo shirts and sweatshirts in school (which parents can purchase as required from the school office) and at least twice a year parents can place an order for items. Please see Appendix 2 for cost of uniform.
‘Lost Property’ is kept inside the main entrance and unclaimed items are cleared at the end of each term.
St Michael’s School UniformWe have a very smart basic uniform, which consists of:
Black skirt/pinafore/trousers
Gold polo shirtor
White shirt/blouse with school tie
Brown V-neck school jumper/cardigan with school tie
orBrown or Gold School Sweatshirt
Yellow gingham dress (summer)
Brown Fleeces
Black shoes should be worn withtrainers being kept for P.E.
We also provide pupils with a P.E. Bag for their P.E. Kit which should consists of:
Shorts (not Bermuda type)T-shirt (white/yellow)
Gym Shoes
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CostTake 4 costs £1.75To assist in the planning and organisation of our lunches we are required to order lunches 3 weeks in advance. Weekly menus are issued on a Friday and completed forms should be returned to school the following Monday in the school Mail Folders.
PaymentChildren are requested (a) to pay for their week’s meals when they return the completed menu, and (b) whenever possible, each family member brings his/her own money.
Free MealsFree school meals are available to support families who live and attend a school in Dumfries and Galloway and who are in receipt of qualifying benefits. Free school meals are currently offered to all Primary 1-3 pupils. Any questions about FreeSchool Meals can be directed to the Pupil/Parent Support Unit or http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/schools
Promoting Healthy Eating The Scottish Executive has issued a series of 24 recommendations to all local authorities across Scotland regarding the school meals service in both Primary and Secondary schools. The initiative is known as Hungry for Success.The aim is to increase the consumption of fruit, vegetables and fish while reducing salt, sugar and saturated fat. Compliance with the recommendations contained in Hungry for Success will be monitored as part of the HMI school inspections. For more information please visit: www.scotland.gov.uk and click through the following route: Topics/Education and training/School education/School meals/Hungry for Success.
We recommend that children bring a healthy snack most days.
Fresh Drinking Water Children provide their own water bottles for drinking through the day. This is separate from the juice/water they have in their packed lunch boxes. We have fresh water coolers where children can top up their bottles during the school day. Pupils can purchase self-sealing water bottles from the school. When our new Primary 1 pupils attend their induction morning in June they will be issued with a water bottle free of charge.
School Lunches Children may choose to have a school meal, a home packed lunch or go home for lunch.
School MealsDG First operates the contract for school meals.Meals are prepared at Calside Primary and transported to our kitchen to be served.
What is provided?We have a ‘Take 4’ menu, which offers a variety of both hot and cold meal options, a dessert, fruit and a drink.
Special DietsIf for any reason a child requires a special diet, parent/carers should:
; Inform the school that their child has special dietary requirement, especially if the special diet is in connection to a food allergy or intolerance.
; Request and complete a ‘Special Diet Registration Form’, available at the school.
; Return completed Form for the attention of Area Supervisor, Facilities Management - Catering, Cargen Tower, Garroch Business Paerk, Garroch Loaning, Dumfries, DG2 8PN, including letter from dietician or doctor detailing where applicable the medical dietary requirement.
; Supply any food items available on prescription eg gluten free bread and pasta to assist in preparation of child’s lunch and add additional information on form.
Packed LunchesPupils who prefer to bring packed lunches from home join the others in the dining room and are supervised at all times. Lunch is seen as an opportunity to develop pupils’ personal and social skills.
For safety reasons, glass containers and cans should not be given to the children and, in order to prevent damage to school books in school bags, it is advisable to give your child a separate lunch box.
Home LunchesSome children prefer to go home for lunch. If going home, class teachers should be advised by letter on each particular day. Children will not be permitted to leave the school premises without this permission.
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Transporting Pupils to School
Recent government initiatives encourage parents to walk to and from school, where possible, with their children. This practice is encouraged on the grounds that valuable time can be spent together, money on fuel is saved and atmospheric pollution is reduced.
Where it is not possible to walk, parents are asked to stop their cars well away from the crossing patrols on Glebe Street and Craigs Road. We also have an agreement with Lidl to offer our families a ‘Park and Walk’ facility to help ease the congestion around the school at the busy times of the day.
Our local Police regularly monitor traffic around our school and will act on any driver parking illegally.
Who is entitled to school transport?For children living within the designated catchment area of the school, transport is provided by the Education Authority for:
; Pupils who live 2 miles away from their catchment school if they are under 8 years old
; Pupils who live 3 miles away from their catchment school if they are 8 years and over
; Roman Catholic children attending the denominational school for their address and live the above statutory distances from that school.
How do I find out if my child will receive school transport?
When school transport is required for a pupil, the school will contact the Parent/Pupil Support Unit.If your child is eligible, details of the transport arrangements will be communicated to you in time for the new academic year. You can check whether your child is entitled to school transport using ‘Find My Nearest’ on the Council’s website (http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/schoolsAny alterations to transport arrangements that occur during the school year will be communicated prior to any changes being made. If school bus
passes are required these are issued at school. There is a Policy on School Transport and a Guide for Parents, and also Guidance for transport of children and young people with Additional Support Needs. These are available from your school or on the Council’s website or from the Pupil/Parent Support Unit (see Page 32) http://www.dumgal. gov.uk/schools
Playground Supervision Authority guidelines state that schools with a role in excess of 50 pupils require a playground supervisor. Our janitor is currently our designated playground supervisor. He is assisted from 8.40am -9.00am and during the morning and lunch breaks by Learning Assistants. We operate a system whereby pupils who require to use the toilet or to talk to an adult inside the building with a concern can do so.
Wet Weather ProceduresWe monitor the weather very carefully so it is important always to send your child to school with a waterproof with a hood. It is good to let the children have fresh air but if it becomes very wet and windy the children will have their intervals in their classrooms, and the older pupils will help to supervise P1-P6 while the janitor and Learning Assistants patrol all the classes. On wet mornings the entrance doors will be opened at 8.40am to allow pupils access into the school hall where they will be supervised by school staff.
Willow Wonderland
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Enrolment According to the Education (Scotland) Act 1981, Parents have the right to choose the school at which they wish their child to be educated. Dumfries and Galloway Council Education Dept. have a Basic Information booklet for parents, which summarises and outlines educational provision within the region. A copy of this booklet can be obtained from the Education Office at Woodbank or from the school office. Parents need to contact the Education Office if they are seeking a place at a school out with their catchment area. Parents must also contact the Education Office if they wish to continue with a place after they have moved out with their catchment area. Forms PP1 and PP2 are issued for completion to parents of new entrants and children transferring to secondary education.Parents seeking a place at a school outwith the child’s catchment area are normally responsible for the cost of transport.
Class Organisation For organisational purposes, schools arestructured into classes. Each year it isthe responsibility of the Head Tteacher toorganise the class structure. Any decisionswill be determined by the total schoolroll, the number of teachers allocated tothe school, the physical capacity of thelearning and teaching areas and any needto accommodate specialist equipment andmobility aids.Class structures may consist of compositeor single stage. Children will be placed incomposite classes with consideration givento a number of factors:• Learning needs • Gender balance• Siblings • AgeEducation Services will support any decision made by the Head Teacher following this criteria. In most cases single stage classes will be determined by age. If parents are unhappy with the classorganisation they should speak with the Head Teacher in the first instance.
The maximum number of pupils per class is as follows:
P1 – 25 P2/P3 – 30 P4/P7 - 33
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Primary 1 EntrantsChildren are entitled to start their formal education at the beginning of a new session (i.e. August) provided they will become 5 years of age by the end of February in Primary 1. Enrolment takes place in school in January and the dates and times are published in the local press. Parents should bring along their child’s birth certificate.
In the terms leading up to P1 entry our staff will make arrangements to visit your child in their pre-school establishment in preparation for his/her move into primary. Our new entrants are also invited to spend some time in their P1 class. Parents are invited to a meeting with the Headteacher who will provide helpful hints about how to prepare the children for school as well as providing information relevant to the first few weeks in primary and a brief outline of the P1 curriculum.Information will also be provided on assessment, reporting and parents’ evenings.
Entrants from Other SchoolsParents should telephone the school so that a mutually suitable time may be arranged for parents and entrants to visit the school. After Enrolment pupils are placed by the Headteacher according to their date of birth.
Transfer RequestsIn the event of a parent wishing to transfer their child to another school, a PP6 form, which is available from the school, needs to be completed.On submission of the form to the child’s present school a meeting will be arranged by the Headteacher as soon as is practicable in order to discuss current curriculum implications and any other potential problems regarding the transfer. Attendance at such a meeting is strongly recommended. Following the submission of the form and the subsequent meeting the information will be forwarded to Education Services in Dumfries, where a decision will be made regarding the transfer.
Moving on to Secondary School
We recognise the importance of building good relationships between primary and secondary so that your child’s move from P7 to S1 is as smooth as possible.
Catchment Secondary School
Transfer from primary to secondary school will be dealt with by direct approach to parents from individual primary schools. Our catchment secondary school is Dumfries Academy.
Dumfries AcademyAcademy Street
DumfriesDG1 1DD
Tel. (01387) 274350Rector: Mrs J Dillon
Information regarding catchment areas can be found on the Council’s website by accessing “Find My Nearest” http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/schoolsEvening visits for prospective pupils and parents are arranged for each school in November. In June your child will spend three induction days in the secondary school to which they are transferring.Parents can opt for any secondary school and full details on how to enrol or move school are available from the school or on the Council’s website.
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Support AvailablePupils with additional needs benefit from an enhanced transition. Parents/carers are asked to identify an appropriate Secondary School for their child before Christmas. Transition meetings are held after the Christmas break to establish a timetable of transition visits and to identify specific support to ensure pupils’ needs are being met.
Transferring Educational Data about a PupilEducation authorities and the Scottish Executive Education Department (SEED) have collected data about pupils on paper form for many years. We are now working together to transfer data electronically through the SEEMIS programme.
What pupil data will be collected and transferred?
Data on each pupil is collected by local authorities and SEED. The data collected and transferred covers areas such as date of birth, postcode, registration for free meals, whether a pupil is looked after by his/her local authority, special educational needs, attendance, absence and exclusion from school. Pupils’ names and addresses are collected by their school and Education Authority but they are not passed to SEED. Your postcode is the only part of your address which is transferred. Data is held securely and no information on individual pupils can or would be published by SEED. It is used for statistical and research purposes only.
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and to identify specific support to ensure pupuls’ needs are being met.
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St Michael’s Primary School - Mak Siccar
Home/School Partnership
Communicating with Home St Michael’s Primary School encourages a close relationship between home and school and endeavours to keep parents fully informed on all matters by issuing weekly newsletters throughout the session, Home/School Diaries, Mail Folders (sent home on Fridays) and questionnaires to seek opinions on specific issues. Additional information is provided by the First Link Parents Magazine or Parent Zone (www. parentzonescotland.gov.uk).
Education Services operate within the complaints handling procedures for Dumfries and Galloway Council. Information on this can be found at http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/schools
Education Services aim for enquiries, concerns and complaints to be dealt with at as local a level as possible, where possible at individual school level. Individual schools are supported to ensure that matters of complaint are recorded, acknowledged and responded to within normal complaints handling timescales, normally response within 10 working days.Normally issues arising at a school level should be brought to the attention of the class teacher and senior school staff, such as Headteacher or Principle Teacher as appropriate. Further support and advice can be provided to individual complainants or teaching staff through contacting either the complaints handler within Education Services or to the Councils Corporate Complaints Unit.
Seemis Text Messaging From time to time text messages are sent to a pupil’s main contact mobile telephone, using the Seemis Text Messaging System. It is therefore imperative that mobile numbers are kept up-to-date to ensure these messages reach the correct destination. Types of messages include school closure information, meeting dates, school excursion information (return times), information requests of pupil absence from school, etc. It is also now possible for you to reply to text messages.
AttendanceIt is your responsibility as parents to ensure that your child/children attends school regularly. It is protocol for you to telephone the school office prior to/at the beginning of the absence.Absences are recorded in class registers and frequent or irregular absences not supported by a reasonable excuse, will be notified to parents and the matter may be referred to the ‘Opportunities for All’ Team. We are required to inform the Scottish Executive (SEED) of the number of school absences and the reasons for them. SEED then produce tables and statistics showing national attendance rates throughout Scotland. Please try to make dental/medical appointments out with school hours whenever possible. However if this is not possible please inform us in writing or by telephone of the appointment and arrange to collect your child from class.
Unexplained Absences / Lateness
We have in place a robust system of procedures to ensure the safety of all the children in our care. In order that our procedures work efficiently and effectively we require your cooperation in the following matters:
Parents are asked to ensure that:1. The school is informed if the family is running
late.2. Any legitimate absence is notified to the school
by telephone before 9am on the first day of the absence without fail, and that further calls, before 9am, are made on every subsequent day of the absence.
3. Contact telephone numbers, whether for home, for parents at work or for other emergency contacts, are kept up to date and are genuinely numbers where a response will be received. This is particularly important with mobile phone numbers.
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such holidays but it is not the view of the Education Department that these holidays should be officially recognised as “authorised”.The Department recognises that some parents have difficulties in arranging their own holidays to suit school holiday periods and parents remain free, within reason, to remove their children for holidays during term time. They should, however, appreciate that prolonged absence from school at any stage is harmful to a child’s education and it is not possible and also unfair to other children – to direct teaching time to assist a child who has been on holiday to catch up on what they have missed. This means that, whilst parents are at liberty to remove children from school for the purposes of family holidays, such absences will be recorded as ‘unauthorised’.Parents should continue to inform the school, in writing, of any such holiday plans.The exception to this is when a family holiday is judged to be important to the well-being and cohesion of the family following serious or terminal illness, bereavement or other traumatic events.Requests for absences for purposes other than family holidays will be dealt with on their own merits.Continued unauthorised absences will be reported to the ‘Opportunities for All Team’ in the first instance, for support. If pupil’s attendance does not improve, parents will be requested to attend a meeting where further actions are considered…, which might include referral to the Children’s Reporter.
4. The school is kept informed of the absence and the likely return date.
5. Any planned absences are officially notified to the school, in writing, in advance.
6. School would be informed before 1.15pm if a child was not returning to school after lunch as a result of becoming unwell over that period.
7. Latecomers report to the school office on arrival at school and sign in.
Staff will ensure that absences are checked every day and follow up the whereabouts of any child for whom we have no explanation. Due to the amount of extra work involved and necessity of having the correct information I would ask you to make note of the above requirements and ensure that you follow through the procedures to ensure the safety of all our children.
HolidaysThe Government has highlighted the importance of school attendance to a child’s development and has required schools to set targets for improved attendance. Against this background, there is considerable concern at the increasing number of term-time holidays being taken by children at the request of their parents. The Head Teacher is not in a position to refuse permission to parents for
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2020
Positive Behaviour and Celebrating Success
Our Code of ConductOUR LEARNING
1. Work well with others andaccept their ideas.
2. Listen, concentrate and work quietly on what you are doing.
3. Reach for the stars and aim for your targets.
4. Complete all tasks, including Shared Learning tasks, to the best of your ability.
5. Always try your best and be proud of your work.
6. Make sensible and positive decisions.7. Take part fully and enthusiastically
in all activities.8. Never give up – if you need help then ask.9. Make good use of your learning time – be
busy and always have something to do.10. Share all of your learning achievements
including those out with school.
OUR BEHAVIOUR1. Be a team player, work together
and don’t get the red card.2. Play safe to stay safe in
the school grounds.3. Be a friend to everyone.4. Look after and share your classroom
and playground equipment.5. Think before you speak.6. Behave outside in the community
as well as within school.7. Always show wonderful manners.8. Feed the bins, not the seagulls.9. Be honest and take responsibility
for your actions.10. Move in and around the school safely
and respect everything and everyonein our school.
Artwork by St. Michael’s pupils - Sophie Ritchie, Morgan West and Charlotte Macgregor
Pupil Signature ...............................................................................
Date ...............................................................................
Parent/Carer Signature ................................................................
Date ................................................................
Our Code of ConductAll children have a right to feel happy and secure in our school. We aim to promote a caring and co-operative atmosphere in the school and playground. Our staff are fair and polite to children and we provide a quiet, calm environment in which children can work and play. Our children are supervised throughout the day and there is always an adult available should children want to discuss any concerns or worries. In consultation with stakeholders we have agreed upon the St Michael’s Code of Conduct which pupils, parents and staff have all signed up to.
Traffic Light SystemTo ensure a consistent approach to behaviour management throughout the school it has been agreed that each class would have a system whereby every pupil starts the week with an entitlement of 45 minutes Activity Time. By doing this we are supporting pupils in modifying their own behaviour, and we are not setting the pupils up to fail.
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We use the Traffic Light System as shown below to support us in Promoting Positive Behaviour.
PRIMARY 1-7
Child breaks the Code of Conduct
Verbal Warning
Child breaks the Code of Conduct again
Child moves onto the GREEN Traffic Light
Child improves behaviour Child breaks the Code of Conduct again
Child comes off Traffic Lights Child moves onto the AMBER Traffic Light
Child moves onto the RED Traffic Light and loses 5 minutes Activity Time
It has been agreed by pupils and staff that certain behaviour would incur an automatic sanction of 5 minutes loss of Activity Afternoon:
; Lying ; Swearing/inappropriate language ; Not following instructions ; Deliberately hurting/threatening others ; Being disrespectful to others
Celebrating Success We believe in celebrating success, so at our weekly assembly pupils are encouraged to share their achievements outside of school. Individual achievements within school are recognised by awarding ‘House Points’ and ‘Pupil of the Week’, P7 Buddy and ‘Lunchtime Award’ certificates. These are awarded for a variety of reasons, and are intended to highlight ways in which pupils are developing the four purposes of Curriculum for Excellence. The children who receive the ‘Pupil of the Week‘ certificates are invited to attend a Tea Party with the Head Teacher, Mrs Thomson
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Recognising and Celebrating Pupils’ Wider Achievements
Our school’s SKILL Awards scheme provides support for independent and motivated learners through a challenging and varied 7-year Wider Achievement Programme which is linked to each of the 4 capacities and takes account of learning in and out with school. This approach to recording and accrediting our children’s skills development and achievements throughout their Primary years encourages our pupils to engage in high quality learning experiences which increase engagement and improve motivation for all learners.
Activity TimeIn continuing to embrace Curriculum for Excellence and offer our pupils enhanced learning experiences we have in place ‘Activity Time’ which supports us in celebrating the positive behaviour and work ethic of our pupils. Activity Time offers the children specific learning opportunities which they will develop over a 4/5 week period before moving on to another activity. In August 2013 we introduced Activity Time ‘Passports’ which allows for each pupil to keep a record of the skills they have developed in relation to Curriculum for Excellence - Experiences and Outcomes, whilst participating in their chosen activity. The range of Activities on offer is very impressive with Gardening, Biking, Clay Modelling, Walking, Filming, Board & Card Games, Orienteering, Maths in the Park, News Paper Crafts, Hama Beads, Construction Challenge to name but a few!
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How is my child doing?
Reporting/Communicating to Parents
Research consistently demonstrates that where parents are involved with their children’s education and learning both at home and in partnership with the school, their children do better and achieve more. These benefits can be long-lasting and extend to better health and relationships, and improved employment prospects.The school has introduced ‘My Journey Jotter’ booklets for each pupil. These are used to record success towards weekly targets set in the areas of Literacy, Numeracy/Maths and Health and Wellbeing. They also record both pupil and teacher views in relation to their efforts in relation to work ethic and behaviour. The ‘My Journey Jotter’ booklets are sent home on a Monday to be shared with family and sent home on a Friday, once completed to be signed.In November and April parents, along with their child are invited to meet with class teachers to discuss their child’s progress in learning. These are supported by an interim report, issued in November and a full written report in May. These 3-way Learning Conversations have two main purposes. Firstly, they provide clear, positive and constructive feedback about children’s and young people’s learning and progress, looking back on what has been achieved against standards and expectations, Secondly, they create an agenda for discussions between learners and those teaching and supporting them about their next steps in learning.However, if you have any concerns about your child’s progress, please do not hesitate to contact the school at any time during the year. In addition, we also hold Open Afternoons and ‘sharing of learning’ events throughout the year. These give parents an opportunity to come in to school and spend time with their children, finding out what they are learning and seeing their progress. It also gives you an opportunity to comment to your child on his/her work.
Shared Learning (Homework)
Within St Michael’s Primary School, homework is seen to cover a range of different tasks within a variety of curricular areas. Shared Learning may involve the child in the completion of a task independently outside school or may require him to work alongside another person be it adult or child. However, before any shared learning task is undertaken the class teacher will have briefed the child on the purpose and expectations of the activity and will have ensured that the child has a clear understanding of what is required. We see shared learning as a joint venture between teacher, pupil and home.
The Purpose of Shared Learning (Homework)
; To strengthen home/school links and to encourage parental co-operation and support
; To encourage pupils to develop personal responsibility for life-long learning
; To help reinforce and extend children’s learning
; To provide opportunities to work independently thus developing good study habits and self-discipline
; To help pupils learn to plan and organise their time
; To provide challenging opportunities for research and discovery
Time Spent on Shared Learning (Homework)It was agreed that homework tasks should last in general between fifteen and thirty minutes. Some tasks such as going to the library, may take longer but these would not be on a nightly basis. Homework given regularly was defined as being two to three times a week.Actual timescales will vary according to stage and task and will be communicated to parents at class level. However, it is to be expected that the time and frequency of homework tasks will gradually increase as your child moves up through the school.
Monitoring and SupportEach child has a home/school diary in which tasks are set out. On completion of each of these it is hoped that a parent will sign it to verify that they have seen the child’s completed work. This will be actively encouraged in an effort to involve the parent in all homework carried out by the child. Obviously their contribution to each task will vary depending upon the activity. At this point the shared responsibility and effort between school, pupil and parent should be stressed again.
When receiving homework tasks, teachers will provide feedback to the child. However, should homework not be brought in to school on the agreed date, parents will be notified of this fact by letter. This is done merely to keep them informed and is another means of encouraging home/school liaison. Correspondence regarding homework can and should be made using the Home/School Diary.
Pupil Assessment and Reporting
Throughout a child’s time in nursery and school, progress is monitored using a variety of methods.This assessment is an on-going process and is intended not only to measure what has been learned by means of correction and tests but also to support children’s learning by identifying appropriate next steps.
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Assessment is for Learning
In line with the Government’s proposals outlined in ‘Ambitious and Excellent Schools’, we also use a programme of formative assessment. Research has shown that children learn best when they understand what they are trying to learn, receive quality feedback on what they are doing and good advice about what they need to do to improve.
To achieve this we: ; share the learning intentions and identify
success criteria for lessons and blocks of work ; provide written and oral feedback to pupils ; encourage self and peer assessment ; discuss progress with pupils and set targets to
help them improve
Pupil ProfilesA profile is a snapshot of a child’s or young person’s best achievements at a given point in time. Profiles are primarily aimed at children and their parents and draw together a range of information about a child or young person’s learning. It is one of the ways in which a child’s achievements can be recognised. Nationally it has been agreed that profiles will be produced at the P7 and S3 stage. The profiling process gives your child the opportunity to talk about their learning and achievements with yourself and others and can challenge, motivate and support all learners. The intention is to give a rounded picture of your child, their achievements and progress in learning to date.There is a Guidance note for parents on profiling which is available from the school.
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Parent Participation
Helping your childThere are many things which as a parent you can do to support your child’s learning in school:-
; Listen, talk, and encourage – this can have a big influence on children’s learning
; Encourage your child to talk to you about their learning, what learning is happening at school and do what you can at home to build on that
; Talk to your child about their strengths and interests and how they are progressing
; Encourage your child to talk to you about their next steps in learning and find out how you can work with the school to support this
; Ask for help if you think your child needs it for any reason.
; Praise your child if he/she is working hard at something or has achieved something within or out of school
; Encourage any reading ; Look for opportunities at home to develop
literacy and numeracy skills: money, number problems, time, measuring, matching, size, reading, writing, understanding instructions, questioning information
; Encourage your child to take part in activities e.g. hobbies, clubs which will provide opportunities to develop a range of skills
It is worth noting that you as a parent can provide many opportunities to encourage your child to learn, e.g.
; Family outings ; Visits to places of interest ; Playing family games ; Clubs and sports ; Making time to listen, read and talk to your
child
Helping in the School
Volunteer Helpers in SchoolAt St Michael’s Primary School we welcome any help which parents can offer, and we would like to develop this further to include any other interested adults.At present parents help with:
; Accompanying classes on visits ; CAPER – P1/2/3 Reading ; Scripture Union ; Activity Time ; Social Events
We would also welcome help with: ; sharing a craft/hobby ; taking a club e.g. chess, table tennis ; school development activities
If you could assist, or know of anyone who would like to help in any of these ways, please tell us and we will arrange for the appropriate Disclosure Scotland checks to be carried out.
Useful InformationFor more information on parental involvement or to find out more about parents as partners in their child’s learning, please contact the school or visit the Education Scotland website – www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzone
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Parent CouncilBy law schools have a duty to promote parents’ involvement in children’s education. We are very keen that parents feel able to be involved in their child’s education and learning that they are active participants in the life of the school and they feel able to express their views on school education generally.Every parent who has a child at our school is a member of the Parent Forum. The parent council is a group of parents who have chosen to represent the parent forum. As a member of the Parent Forum, each parent can expect to:-
; Receive information about the school and its activities
; Hear about what partnership with parents means in our school
; Be invited to be involved in ways and times that suit you
; Identify issues you want the parent council to work on with the school
; Be asked your opinion by the parent council on issues relating to the school and education it provides
; Work in partnership with staff; and ; Enjoy taking part in school life in whatever way
Possible
The types of things the parent council may getinvolved in include:
; Supporting the work of the school; ; Gathering and representing parents’ views
to the Headteacher, Education Authority and Education Scotland;
; Promoting contact between the school, parents, pupils and the local community;
; Fundraising and organising events; ; Reporting to the parent forum; and ; Being involved in the appointment of senior
promoted staff.
The present office bearers are:Chairperson Mrs K Hulme Secretary Mrs K PatersonTreasurer Mrs L Nosratzadeh
The Council’s functions are wide-ranging andinclude:
; promoting co-operation between the school, the parents and the community
; ascertaining the views of parents on school matters
; receiving and requesting reports and information from the Head Teacher and Education Authority
; participating in the selection of promoted staff
The Parent Council consists of two sub-groups, one dealing with social events and fundraising, the other assisting the Head Teacher in addressing school developments and improvements, particularly those raised by parents.The Annual General Meeting takes place in September, and all parents are cordially invited to attend. It is important that parents have a voice in how the school is run, so please try to come along.
Social EventsVarious events are organised throughout the year, not only to raise money for the School Fund but also to provide an opportunity for everyone in the community to meet together, and the Parent Council plays an important part in helping to organise these.
Events have included: ; Hallowe’en Disco ; Bingo Night ; Spring Fling Disco ; Beetle Drive ; Shorts and Shades Disco ; Summer Fete ; Race Night
The Parent Council also raise funds by producing and selling School Calendars, which are a firm favourite with pupils, parents and staff.
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replace and improve upon the current disclosure arrangements for people who work with vulnerable groups. The Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG Scheme) will:
; help to ensure that those who have regular contact with children and protected adults through paid and unpaid work do not have a known history of harmful behaviour.
; be quick and easy to use, reducing the need for PVG Scheme members to complete a detailed application form every time a disclosure check is required.
; strike a balance between proportionate protection and robust regulation and make it easier for employers to determine who they should check to protect their client group.
The Education Service has an obligation to ensure the safety and well being of pupils at all times. One of the ways we do this is by undertaking an enhanced PVG check on all employees who have direct contact with pupils and on volunteers who (1) will be involved with pupils in an unsupervised capacity (e.g. transporting pupils to sports events); or (2) will be involved in an overnight stay with pupils. The PVG check, administered through Disclosure Scotland (provided by the Scottish Criminal Records Office) alerts us to any criminal convictions and non-conviction Police intelligence on the part of the individual and allows us, thereby, to judge his/her suitability to work with young people. Of course, no system is fool proof but we do believe this system offers everyone reassurance about those to whom we entrust the care of our children.
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Fund Raising
In addition to the budget provided by the Education Authority, the school operates a School Fund that is used for incidental expenses. Various events are organised to raise money for our School Fund but also to provide an opportunity for everyone in the community to meet together, and the Parent Council plays an important part in this.When necessary we also hold sponsored events.However these are kept to a minimum and, wherever possible, related to aspects of the curriculum e.g. Sponsored Spell / Count / Read / Keep Fit.
Funds raised are used for a variety of purposes: ; to help fund social events such as our annual
Christmas parties. ; to subsidise school excursions. ; to buy extra equipment for the school.
From time to time individual classes may also plan and organise their own fund raising activity/event/competition to raise funds towards a Residential Trip, Sponsorship of an Endangered Animal, cost of visitors into the school eg Owl Magic, Local Author. An annual report on School Fund expenditure is provided for parents. Since we encourage our pupils to be responsible citizens and to show concern for the well being of others, each year our Pupil Council select the charity or organisation which will be the focus for fundraising.In the past donations have been made to:
; Cash for Kids ; Children in Need ; Childline ; Red Nose Day ; British Legion – Poppy Appeal ; British Heart Foundation ; Help the Aged ; Meningitis Trust ; CHAS – Children’s Hospice Association ; Scotland ; Guide Dogs for the Blind
We are very grateful to all parents and friends who support our fundraising activities.
Disclosure ScotlandIn February 2011, the Scottish Government introduced a new membership scheme to
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Complaints Against TeachersAlthough it is expected such incidents will be rare indeed, sometimes situations arise when a parent may feel s/he has a justified complaint against a teacher. Such complaints should be made to the Headteacher when, it is hoped, an amicable solution can be reached. If the situation remains unresolved then contact with the Director of Education Services, Woodbank, 30 Edinburgh Road, Dumfries, DG1 1NW may be made.
School ImprovementsImprovement plan and prioritiesIn May each year, the school publishes a Standards & Quality Report providing all stakeholders with a comprehensive summary of the school’s work and learners’ achievements over the last year. The first part of this report provides an overview of the school’s progress in addressing its key priorities, while the second part gives information about, for example, how well pupils are learning and achieving; how well the school is supporting children/young people to develop and learn. In June, we publish a School Improvement Plan which outlines the key priorities for the school during the year ahead, following due consultation with staff, pupils and parents. The plan indicates the expected impact of priorities on pupil learning, as well as providing brief information about the key tasks to be taken forward. To view our most recent Standards and Quality Report and our latest School Improvement Plan, please visit our website: www.stmichael’sprimarydumfries.co.uk
St Michael’s Primary School - Mak Siccar
Educating Your Child
Education Service in Dumfries and Galloway
The Education service in Dumfries and Galloway is committed to the values, principles and aspirations set out in the Standards in Scotland Act 2000. The Authority’s aims are to provide effective teaching and learning leading to the highest possible attainment for all.
This will be achieved through working in partnership with:
; Young People ; Their Parents ; Our Communities ; Our Staff ; Other Agencies
The Priorities in Dumfries and GallowayAre to raise levels of
; Achievement ; Attainment ; Participation
In all our children and young people
To encourage ; Innovation and creativity ; Collaboration ; A culture of sharing and learning
In all our staff
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Our Objectives
1. We will ensure that children and young people will be at the centre of our plans.
This means planning by schools and support from Education Services will be focussed on delivering to all our children and young people the entitlements embedded in Curriculum for Excellence and Getting It Right for Every Child.
3. We will encourage innovation, creativity, collaboration and a culture of sharing and learning in all our staff
This means a focus on transformational leadership, professional autonomy and local solutions and building capacity in all our staff.
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2. We will improve our partnership working This means an emphasis on Cluster working,
training on Getting It Right For Every Child themes, parental involvement, multi-agency working, partnership with Community Learning and Development (CLD); Professional Learning Communities and collaboration with Education Scotland, the Care Inspectorate and Further Education colleges.
4. We will streamline our business processes This means empowering our schools and
staff to find better ways of working, with an emphasis on professional autonomy, local solutions, developing leadership, capacity building, effective Continuing Professional Development and implementing Getting It Right for Every Child processes.
These together with issues identified from our own self-evaluation inform our School Improvement Plan for St Michael’s School. This
plan is produced in consultation with staff, parents and pupils. This plan and our progress is updated annually and is available to view on the
school and council website.
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subjects and are vital to everyday life. It develops skills for learning, life and work to help young people go on to further study, secure work and navigate life. It brings real life into the classroom, making learning relevant and helps young people apply lessons to their life beyond the classroom. It links knowledge in one subject area to another helping children understand the world and make connections. It develops skills so that children can think for themselves, make sound judgements, challenge, enquire and find solutions.
How does Curriculum for Excellence work?
; The ‘learner journey’ will be joined up from 3-18 to avoid gaps and overlaps in learning and to make the most of achievements outside school.
; Learners will work at a pace that suits, with enough challenge and support to stretch them.
; Lessons will be more engaging, inspiring and relevant to everyday life.
; Teachers will make connections between subjects, helping children make sense of the world.
; Children will learn how to learn and how to use their learning, not just memorise information to pass tests. This will help them adapt in an uncertain future with the ability to think for themselves, make sound judgements, challenge, enquire and find solutions.
; There’s more focus on knowledge and skills – including vital skills: literacy and numeracy, which underpin all learning and are critical in life.
; There are changes to assessment and how progress is reported to give learners, parents and employers better information on potential and achievement.
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Curriculum for Excellence
Bringing Learning to Life and Life to LearningCurriculum for Excellence (CfE) is bringing learning to life in the way education is delivered for all 3-18 year olds – in nursery, primary, secondary, at college, workplace or community learning. It takes a fresh approach to what, how and where young people learn. It aims to raise standards, improve knowledge and develop skills, closing the gap between the lowest and highest performers, prepare our children for the future they do not yet know and equip them for jobs of tomorrow in a fast changing world. Ultimately it aims to nurture young people as successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens. Curriculum for Excellence enables professionals to teach subjects creatively, to work together across the school and with other schools, to share best practice and explore learning together. Glow, Scotland’s unique, world-leading, online network supports learners and teachers in this and plans are already in place for parents across the country to have access to Glow.
Teachers and practitioners will share information to plan a child’s ‘learning journey’ from 3-18, helping their progression from nursery to primary, primary to secondary and beyond, ensuring the change is smooth. They’ll ensure children continue to work at a pace they can cope with and with challenge they can thrive on.Curriculum for Excellence balances the importance of knowledge and skills.
Every child is entitled to a broad and deep general education, whatever their level and ability. Every single teacher and practitioner will be responsible for literacy, numeracy and health and well being – the language and numbers skills that unlock other
The Curriculum
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Subject InformationLanguage/LiteracyFrom pre-school pupils are encouraged to use books as sources of information and pleasure. Children of all ages enjoy being read to and a regular feature in our classes is the ongoing class novel or storybook read by the teacher. Some of our classes make use of Georgetown Library
Modern Languages in the Primary SchoolThe Scottish Government Languages Working Group have identified that the learning of additional languages can help strengthen a child’s understanding of their Mother Tongue (The Scottish Government, 2012). The Scottish Government’s policy, ‘Language Learning in Scotland: A 1+2 Approach’, is aimed at ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn a modern language from P1 onwards, followed by the introduction of a second language in P5. At St Michael’s we are supporting these findings and bringing language learning to life throughout all stages. Within our school there is a commitment to the teaching of French in classes P1- P7 and Spanish in classes P5 - P7. This is taught through active learning – games, songs, and rhymes. The subjects tackled tend to include introductions,
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Subject AreasThere are eight identified Curricular Areas within Curriculum for Excellence.
Sometimes these subject areas will be taught as a discrete subject area and at other times the subject area may be included as a Curricular Area within an Interdisciplinary Learning Plan, i.e. as part of an identified theme or topic. Within each subject area a variety of learning & teaching resources are used as is a variety of resources as appropriate.
Languages Literacy & Modern Languages
Health & Wellbeing
Curriculum for Excellence
Sciences
Social Studies Religious & Moral Education
Numeracy & Mathematics
Technologies
Expressive Arts
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weather, number up to 100, time, classroom objects etc. In the younger classes children are offered a simple ‘taster’ in French e.g. date, weather, instructions. In June 2016, St Michael’s were proud winners of the Education Scotland Award for ‘Making Languages Come Alive’.
Mathematics/NumeracyWe aim to equip our pupils with the mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding to meet the needs of every day life. We believe that children require competence in basic skills to enable them to process information quickly and efficiently. To this end we regularly reinforce knowledge and understanding of the four number operations, +, -, x, and division. Children are expected to learn
multiplication tables and achieve competence in mental calculations and skills in how to use a calculator to support learning is also covered. We believe these activities will furnish children with the tools to confidently tackle investigations and problem solving. Our mathematical curriculum encompasses number, shape, measurement, information handling and problem solving.Children experience a variety of working situations and many tasks set are open ended to encourage children to think independently and to appreciate the flexibility and fun of maths. Cross-curricular links and practical activities are encouraged, as they are an excellent way of reinforcing skills and promoting real understanding.
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Health and Well BeingWe aim to provide children with the experiences and information to make informed choices in their lives. The curriculum explores mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing, physical education, food and health and relationships, sexual health and parenthood.We aim to provide all our children with equal opportunities to keep fit and we value individual and team efforts to do so. Children experience gymnastics, dance, athletics and a variety of team games by where the rules state teams must be made up of both boys and girls.
Social Subjects & ScienceAs part of this programme it is very likely that the children will be out of school at times on educational visits. We may also invite specialists in to school to talk to the children. At the beginning of each new term parents will receive a class overview of the work being studied that term, including pupil input. We appreciate any input children and parents can make to topic work. If you have some interesting artefacts, photographs, tapes, etc do send them in – they will be received with enthusiasm.
Expressive ArtsExpressive Arts crosses all curricular areas but in order to ensure continuity in the development of skills and knowledge we employ specialist teachers for art, music and dance. In line with Curriculum for Excellence we aim to provide a wide range of experience in these areas and we encourage children to develop their own creative talents. In the field of art we ensure the children are introduced to a wide variety of techniques and range of media. We value everyone’s attempt to express themselves and we take great delight in displaying our children’s efforts around the school.We are well resourced for musical instruments so that all children can enjoy the opportunity of playing something during a lesson. We hold Class Assemblies where the children delight in entertaining their families through music, song, poetry and drama.
Religious and Moral EducationThe religious education in all classes is nondenominational, but Christian in ethic. Theatmosphere in school is quietly Christian and the main Christian festivals are observed and celebrated. In addition, pupils learn about the beliefs, festivals and key figures of the other major world religions.Our religious and moral education programme aims to help our pupils to: -
; develop a knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other world religions
; recognise religion as an important expression of human experience
; investigate and understand the questions and answers that religion can offer about nature and the meaning of life
; appreciate moral values such as honesty, liberty, fairness and concern for others
Religious Observance takes place at a weekly assembly, with a Christian or moral theme, taken either by our school chaplain, the Headteacher, the Principal Teacher or by one of the classes. Moral Education permeates all areas of the curriculum and we try to foster honesty, care and consideration for others and tolerance in our pupils, so that they become responsible citizens.
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Parents have a right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and Religious Observance and those who wish to exercise this right should inform us in writing so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
TechnologiesICT is used across the curriculum to enhance pupils’ learning experiences. The school has an extensive computer network with a central computer suite. Each classroom has two additional workstations and an interactive whiteboard.We also have video conferencing facilities which are used on a regular basis to support and enhance pupils’ learning.
Pupils’ Access to the InternetEach pupil has restricted Internet access and their own e-mail address. Internet access has been purchased by the LEA from a supplier that provides a service designed for pupils. This includes:
; Filtering appropriate to the age of school pupils ; Internet access planned to enrich and extend
learning activities ; Access levels reviewed to reflect the
curriculum requirement ; Pupils given clear objectives for Internet use ; Staff selecting sites which will support the
learning outcomes planned for pupils’ age and maturity
; Pupils educated in taking responsibility for their own Internet access
To ensure safe use of the internet pupils are: ; taught to acknowledge the source of
information, when using Internet material for their own use
; made aware that the writer of an e-mail or the author of a web page might not be the person claimed
; encouraged to tell a teacher immediately if they encounter any material that makes them feel uncomfortable
; given no access to public chat rooms
Pupils using the InternetAll pupils are expected to read (along with their parents/guardians) and agree the Internet Access Agreement.
Outdoor Learning
As well as indoor physical education in the gym hall pupils have the use of school grounds and in the summer term we have access to St Joseph’s playing field. There are a wide number of opportunities for all pupils to extend learning to our outdoor environment. All classes use the nearby cycle paths to safely access a wide range of facilities within the Dumfries Burgh. The Cycle Club also access the cycle paths weekly in terms 1 and 4.All classes use the Dock Park as a base, for exploring aspects of Curriculum for Excellence.Opportunities will also be available for P6 pupils
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to participate in orienteering, hill walking, mountain biking and/or water sports with the region’s Outdoor Education Department. This may take the form of several individual days or a short residential stay at an outdoor centre. P7 attend a Regional Accredited Outdoor Centre for a two night stay tackling a wide range of outdoor activities.Senior pupils may also have swimming lessons and cycling proficiency training. In addition opportunities to sample other sports such as table tennis and curling are taken up.Dumfries Burgh boasts a number of sports clubs should pupils wish to develop a particular skill in their leisure time.
Global Citizenship
To ensure our pupils become responsible citizens, throughout their time here they will take part in activities designed to develop an understanding of how to achieve this. At St Michael’s we have a structured ‘Global Citizenship’ programme of study in place and pupils also take part in whole school projects, fundraising activities and community events.
During their 7 years at St Michael’s the pupils will have the opportunity to further develop their Citizenship skills by putting themselves forward to represent their class and school in a number of roles. We currently have a Pupil Council, Eco Committee, JRSOs – Junior Road Safety Officers, Gardening Club, House Captains and Vice-Captains, Website Committee, DTS Group – Determined to Succeed Group, Sports Committee and SNAG – School Nutrition Action Group. These groups meet regularly to take forward a number of initiatives which support our school on our journey to excellence.
Key Learning
Learner Led
Assemblies
Pupil Council
Parent Council
SNAG
Sports CommitteeGardening
Club
Media Communication
Eco Committee
DTS Group
Website Committee
JRSOs
International Education
Global CitizenshipPlanning for Change
Education for CitizenshipSustainability
Value and respect others
Understandindependence
Appreciatediversity
Act responsibly
Think critically
and participate
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Eco Schools Scotland
We now have our second Green Flag and are well on the way to submitting our application for the third. Being awarded a Green Flag is the result of a huge amount of hard work on the part of staff and pupils. Just looking around our school shows the thought and enterprise that has been necessary to produce grounds that are the envy of many Headteachers!
For this year, our targets are to reduce the amount of litter in the playground and to think of the effects our lives have on the environment and those in emerging societies.
Wider School Curriculum
Our pupils are offered a varied selection of extra curricular activities and clubs throughout the school session. Some activities last for a specific period of time e.g. a term or a block of 6-8 weeks, while others continue throughout the session. The targeted age group for pupils varies accordingly throughout the year.Here in St Michael’s Primary School we are extremely lucky and have staff who give their time on a voluntary basis to host out of school activities and we are extremely grateful for their enthusiasm.
Additional Support for Learning
Dumfries and Galloway Council is committed to the well-being and educational development of all learners. The process of inclusion requires all involved in the business of learning and teaching to demonstrate commitment, innovation and flexibility in order to ensure that all children and young people have access to quality learning opportunities and experiences.The Authority aims to meet the needs of all children with additional support needs through a range of provision from mainstream classes (with or without support) to part-time or full-time provision in a school with a learning centre or base. This commitment to meeting the needs of all children is based upon the requirements of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 amended in 2009 and is translated into procedure and practice by Dumfries and Galloway Education Services’ The Framework for Support 2006. This Framework is currently under review.
What is Additional Support for Learning (ASfL)?If your child needs extra help or support in addition to that which is usually provided in school they can be said to have ‘Additional Support Needs’. Children may need additional support for short or long periods of time and for a variety of reasons.
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The reasons can include: ; Have motor or sensory impairments ; Are being bullied ; Are particularly able / talented ; Are ‘looked after’ ; Have a learning difficulty ; Are living with parents who are abusing
substances ; Are living with parents who have mental health
problems ; Have English as an additional Language ; Are not attending school regularly ; Have emotional or social difficulties ; Are on the Child Protection Register ; Are young carers
St Michael’s has developed its own policy for additional learning support within the framework of the Council Policy and a copy can be made available on request. The additional resources for support for learning in this school are:
; Support for Learning Teacher ; Support for Learning Assistant
Individuals and groups of children work with our Support for Learning Staff, usually in the classroom. However, pupils can occasionally be withdrawn for one to one tuition or assessment purposes and an Individualised Education Programme can be created for specific targets.
Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC)
Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is an approach from The Scottish Government that sets out how schools and other services should work with children and their families. GIRFEC is all about ensuring that children get the help they need when they need it – the right help at the right time.
For you and your child, GIRFEC means that: ; You are the expert on your child and what you
think matters. Getting it right for every child means that the School will always seek to involve you, to listen to your opinions and take them seriously.
; From April 2013 your child will have a Named Person in the School. If you or your child need any advice or any support, the Named Person is your first point of contact and will make sure you get the help or advice that you need. Having a Named Person means that if there is anything that could affect your child’s wellbeing, he or she will receive support as quickly as possible so that problems do not develop.
; If your child has complex needs and needs help from several different services, GIRFEC means that all these services must work together for you and your child. You should never have to keep telling your story to lots of different staff in the School or the Education Department or the NHS. Your child will have a single plan that everyone works to and everyone is clear about what they are doing.When your child moves to secondary school there will be a Transition Plan in place for them in good time.
; For more information on getting it right for every child email [email protected].
Child ProtectionAll children have the right to be protected from harm, abuse and neglect. Every adult in Scotland has a role in ensuring all our children and young people live safely and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. The vision for all children and young people in Dumfries and Galloway is that they should be: safe, nurtured, healthy, achieving, active, respected and responsible and included. Schools and front-line education and child care services will play an important role in ensuring all children and young people are safe and well. Further information is contained within the Child Protection Policy for Schools, Pre-School and Child Care Services which is available from the school and the Council website.
Educational Psychology Service
Educational Psychologists aim to improve the life chances of all children and young people. Working in partnership with families and other services, we use applied psychology and knowledge of child development to address inequalities, support vulnerability and enhance inclusion. We seek to ensure that young people realise their potential to become successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens.
We do this by: ; Working with others in a consultative way to
help them make sense of difficulties and make informed choices and decisions
; Sharing knowledge about ‘what works’ and promoting evidence informed approaches to develop the policy and practice of literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing in our educational establishments and communities
; Raising awareness of the crucial role of communication, relationships and nurture in children’s lives
; Training and developing the skills of other professionals to improve children’s attainment and achievement
; Highlighting the interactive nature of assessment, teaching and learning
; Designing and implementing interventions in partnership with others which support individuals and communities to develop resilience and ensure that children are safe, healthy, active, nurtured, achieving, respected, responsible and included.
; Supporting effective transitions (early years into primary, primary to secondary and secondary to post school) to improve the life chances of young people
The Psychological Service is based in offices in Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Annan, and each school has an identified Educational Psychologist.Further information about the service is available from the school.
Home School Link Worker Service
A Home Link Worker can meet with parents/carers, children or young people to offer advice or help with the sorts of things that can affect a child’s learning. These could be connected to a child or young person’s home or school life. The service aims to provide help and advice early and prevent something small from growing into a problem. A Headteacher can ask for this support on a parent’s/ carer’s behalf.
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to provide care for pupils with health needs on a voluntary basis, staff are acting on behalf of the Council which has responsibility for their actions as it does in respect of any other duty undertaken on an agreed basis by individual staff. If it is necessary for your child to take medicine during school hours, such medication will be kept in the school office. However, you must notify us in writing, giving clear instructions regarding the dosage as medication will only be given by authorised members of staff on receipt of a Parental Permission Form. These forms can be obtained from the school office and are also available on the school website (www stmichaelsdumfries.ik.org) Similarly, pupils who require inhalers will be required to have them labelled and they will be placed in the school office, or carried by the child. This will enable children to access their inhaler as and when required. Parents are requested to inform the school if inhalers are required at a specific time of the school day. If parents wish for their child to carry their own inhaler, then they must contact the office to complete a permission form. We should be informed if your child has to keep an inhaler in school. A member of staff will supervise the taking of medication by a child in school. On educational outings this will be undertaken by the class teacher. In both instances it will only be done at the request of parents and on the understanding that staff are not medically trained – merely acting ‘in loco parentis’.It is the responsibility of parents to provide the Headteacher with sufficient information about the child’s health needs and treatment in school and to give permission for this to be shared with appropriate staff. It is also the responsibility of parents to ensure that their child is well enough to attend school and to provide the school with an emergency contact. It is also the responsibility of parents to ensure that medical confirmed information regarding their child is provided and kept up-to-date, so to assist with general day-to-day activities in school and medical emergencies.
St Michael’s Primary School - Mak Siccar
First AidWe are fortunate to have two qualified First Aiders in the school, Mr R Rivero and Mrs C Scott. The Learning Assistants are responsible for providing first aid for minor ailments and playground accidents, etc. If your child receives first aid we shall always let you know by letter but if the incident is serious we shall telephone you. In the event of a child having a bump to the head, parents will be notified as soon as possible.
Medical CareIn the course of your child’s primary school career, considerations of health and welfare are always in evidence. Regular contact is maintained with the school nurse and the school doctor, who will, with the consent of parents, review regularly, any children with health problems that might affect schoolwork. Any difficulties found as a result of examinations will be reported to you so that you can take appropriate action. The school nurse visits the school regularly as part of our Health Promotion scheme. She also has input to our Health Education programme.If your child has any health care needs please contact the school to discuss arrangements. Please tell us about any allergies or condition, which might cause problems for your child whilst in school. If we possess such information we will be able to act promptly and correctly in the instance of need. Full details of the support available and your role as a parent and the role of your child are contained within The Nursery and School Policy on Health Care Procedures Sept 2012 which is available on the Council website www.dumgal.gov.uk
MedicationThere is no legal duty which requires school staff to administer medication or undertake health care procedures: this is a voluntary role (even where the person is a qualified first aider). In undertaking
Health and Safety
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Intimate Care for PupilsFrom time to time ‘accidents’ involving soiling or wetting do happen. If this happens to your child, the staff will endeavour to deal with the situation as sensitively and discretely as possible, and keep you informed. The action taken might include:
; Offering the child fresh clean clothes from a stock held in school, and the chance to wash or wipe themselves in private.
; Contacting parents or emergency contacts to come into school, or to take the child home, to clean up.
If your child has an ongoing condition or problem, which is likely to make ‘accidents’ an issue, do please discuss it with your child’s Class Teacher, Headteacher or the School Nurse.
Emergency Procedures If your child feels ill during the school day and we feel that he/she would be better at home, we will telephone you or your Emergency Contact. Minor accidents, such as cuts and bruises, are dealt with by the school staff. More serious accidents are few, but should one occur, your child would be immediately taken either to your doctor or to the hospital, if necessary, and you or your Emergency Contact notified.
We cannot stress enough the importance of supplying the school with the relevant information we require in such a situation, i.e. your own home and work number and a telephone number of an emergency contact. We will request such information at the beginning of each new school year. However, it is essential that this is updated during the school year if necessary.
Severe Weather and School Closure Arrangements
An emergency closure is an infrequent occurrence in school. However, there are occasions such as power or heating failure, water shortage or heavy snowfall when this becomes necessary and the school has to close. In these circumstances
parents will be communicated with in a variety of ways including text messages/phone calls and emergency contact arrangements. Also a school closure alert will be placed on the council website, www.dumgal.gov.uk which will provide information about closure/re-opening date. Having to close the school is a decision not taken lightly. The health and safety of everyone who has to travel to or work in the school is paramount. Your continued support and patience is much appreciated should the protocol have to be carried out.
Fire SafetyRegular fire drills are held throughout the year, usually once a term and the school evacuation procedure is posted in every classroom and throughout the school. The first priority of staff is the safety of the pupils in their charge.
Every pupil and member of staffreceives training in:
; General fire prevention ; Action to be taken if they discover a fire ; How to raise the alarm ; Action to be taken on hearing the alarm ; Location of escape routes and assembly points ; Evacuation and roll call procedures.
Arrangements are made for the safe evacuation of those with disabilities, which may include learning, physical and sensory difficulties. Operational checks of the fire detection and protection systems are continual and records of these procedures are kept and updated weekly.
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Data ProtectionYour child’s personal data will be held by the school. All personal data is held on our secure school management information system. We will ensure that the information we hold is accurate and up to date and each year you will be sent an Update Form detailing the information held by the school for you to check and update as required. Access to the school management information system is by individual user and is password protected. Furthermore, access to confidential data is restricted to staff in school as appropriate.
Images of Pupils We keep a photographic record of events at the school and such images are used to publicise the many activities in which pupils participate as well as allowing us to create a record of events to share with pupils, parents and visitors to the school. From time to time we also feature in the local press and we have on occasion appeared on Border Television. An image of a person is personal data under the terms of the Data Protection Act 1998 and it is a requirement of the Act that consent from the parent of a child, or young person under the age of 18 years is obtained for any photograph or video recording to be taken and used. Dumfries and Galloway Council are committed to the protection of children and young people and has a policy on the use of images of pupils. You will be asked to read this when your child enrols and to clarify your consent with regard to the publication of images of your child.
Use of the Internet The school believes that the benefits to pupils from access to the resources on the Internet far exceed the disadvantages. Ultimately, the responsibility for setting and conveying the standards that children are expected to follow, when using media and information resources, is one the school shares with parents. We feel that the best recipe for success lies in a combination of site filtering, of supervision and by fostering a responsible attitude in our pupils in partnership with home.
As part of the grid for learning we allow our children supervised access to the Internet and e-mail. The authority runs its own filter system to ensure that young people are not at risk from exposure to inappropriate material. This filtering system is regularly being upgraded. We have a policy for use of the Internet and a contract for responsible use, which we ask parents and young people to sign up to.
Personal SafetyPersonal Accident Insurance Cover for School ChildrenIt is in your interest to ensure that your son or daughter is adequately insured against accidents, not only in school but also at all times. Dumfries and Galloway Council provides insurance cover for pupils relative to its liability for any acts of negligence. However, there are certain occasions when pupils may be more ‘at risk’ than others. These occasions arise not from ‘negligence’ on the part of the Authority but from non-attributable personal accidents, e.g. during curricular or extra-curricular sport or physical activities. The council’s insurance cover does not extend to awards of compensation for damage as a result of such accidents (unless negligence can be proved) and it is essential that parents are aware of this.Insurance cover for pupils to guarantee compensation for non-attributable personal accidents is a matter for parental decision and arrangements. Parents may wish to seek further advice on the availability of such insurance cover from their personal insurance agent/broker.
Care and Welfare of Pupils
Education Services promotes an Inclusive Approach to Education in all our schools and has provided Guidelines and Policy Information to assist schools on implementing this approach to education.
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We hope that you have found the information contained in our handbook useful. All information contained in our school handbook is correct and accurate at the
time of printing; we reserve the right to make any changes throughout the school session.
; Enrolling in Schools – Placement Policy( 2012) ; Exclusion from Schools – Policy and
Procedures (2010) ; Inappropriate Use of Social Networking Sites
(2011) ; Parental Involvement Strategy (2006) –
currently under review ; Primary School Class Organisation (2011)
School policies are available for you to look at in the office and will be posted on to our school website, www.stmichael’sprimarydumfries.co.uk as the session progresses.
Further information on all aspects of education is available on www.educationscotland.gov.uk/ parentzone
Other Useful Information
Pupil/Parent Support UnitThe Pupil/Parent Support Unit is there to help parents and pupils and can be contacted on the numbers shown below regarding any aspect of Free School Meals/Clothing Grants, Education Maintenance Allowance, School Transport, Home Education, Parent Council administration, school transfers and enrolment, school catchment areas, performance licences, insurance matters and financial support for those pupils entering higher education.(01387) 260437 (01387) 260498(01387) 260433 (01387) 260493
PoliciesThere are a number of National, Education Services and school policies which will provide information on a range of issues. Further details of all of these are available from your school or on the Council website http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/schoolsThe following is a list of the policies which may be most relevant to you and your child/ren although this is not an exhaustive list:-
; Acceptable Use of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s ICT Facilities in Schools (2009)
; Child Protection Policy for Schools, Pre-Schools and Childcare Services
; Children Absent from School through Ill Health Guidance (2011)
; Curriculum Swimming Policy (2012) ; Digital Images Policy (2012) – Taking and
Using Images of Pupils ; Dumfries and Galloway Equal Opportunities
Policy and related Equality Schemes
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Term 3
First day - Thursday 5 January 2017
Mid-term holiday - Monday 13 February 2017
Teacher training - Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 February 2017
Last day - Friday 31 March 2017
Spring holiday - Monday 3 April to Monday 17 April 2017
Term 4
First day - Tuesday 18 April 2017
May Day holiday - Monday 1 May 2017
Teacher training - Thursday 1 and Friday 2 June 2017
Last day - Friday 30 June 2017
Summer holiday - Monday 3 July to Friday 18 August 2017
Next school year (2017/18)
Term 1
Teacher training - Thursday 17 and Friday 18 August 2017
First day - Monday 21 August 2017
Last day - Friday 13 October 2017
Autumn holiday - Monday 16 to Friday 27 October 2017
Term 2
First day - Monday 30 October 2017
Last day - Thursday 21 December 2017
Christmas holiday - Friday 22 December 2017 to Wednesday 3 January 2018
Term 3
First day - Thursday 4 January 2018
Mid-term holiday - Monday 12 February 2018
Teacher training - Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 February 2018
Last day - Thursday 29 March 2018
Spring holiday - Friday 30 March 2018 to Friday 13 April 2018
Term 4
First day - Monday 16 April 2018
May Day holiday - Monday 7 May 2018
Teacher training - Friday 1 June 2018
Last day - Friday 29 June 2018
Summer holiday - Monday 2 July 2018 to Thursday 16 August 2018
Terms & Holidays 2017/18
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