1

‘Inspiring Learning’

LONGWELL GREEN SCHOOL

ELLACOMBE ROAD

LONGWELL GREEN

BRISTOL

BS30 9BA

TEL: 01454 866460

FAX: 01454 866462

e-mail: enquiries@longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk

www.longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk

2

Prospectus Contents

Section 1 (Page 3) Introduction

Section 2 (Page 6) Some background information

Section 3 (Page 9) School procedures

Section 4 (Page 14) Your child’s health, safety and

welfare while at school

Section 5 (Page 19) Children enjoying and achieving

Section 6 (Page 25) Working with parents and

extended services

Children at the Little Angels Academy in Kenya, who we support via the Kanamai Development

Trust, and our Charity Fair each year.

3

HEADTEACHER’S INTRODUCTION

May 2018

Dear parents and carers

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Longwell Green Primary School. Our

expectation is that your child will have a wonderful time at the school, and we trust

that our partnership with parents will be a significant part of this. This prospectus is

designed to give you some basic information about the school and introduce our-

selves to you. I hope you find it helpful.

We are proud of our school community and of our achievements to date and we are

continually striving for the highest possible standards and opportunities for all our

pupils.

My main aim is that each child should be developed in the widest sense, using all

their abilities, talents and qualities. I firmly believe that for this to be best achieved

we must establish a genuine partnership between home and school. We pride our-

selves on open communication and therefore if you have any concerns please do not

hesitate to contact an adult in school; either your child’s class teacher, the Family

Link Adviser or myself.

We want all our children to be challenged intellectually; to feel secure, valued and

confident; and to be proud of belonging to the community of Longwell Green

Primary School.

More information about the school is contained on our website

www.longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk

I hope that you and your family enjoy a long and successful partnership with the

school.

Don Sibley

Headteacher

4

THE STAFF AT LONGWELL GREEN PRIMARY SCHOOL

MAY 2018

Headteacher Don Sibley

Deputy Headteacher Simon Brown

Teachers Lauren Bollom (maternity leave)

Padraig Boyle (maternity cover)

Rita Brice

Catherine Burkett (Maths leader)

Ryan Calvey

Sandra Cardy

Kirsty Davies

Gemma Dawson (English leader)

Kath English

Lucy Evans (Wider Curriculum leader)

Rebecca McDonald

Stephanie Taylor (maternity leave)

Rachel Burris (maternity cover)

Charlotte Lock (Special Educational Needs & Disability

Co-ordinator)

Anna Pennington

Rubie Webb

Abigail Wiltshire

Family Link Adviser Jenny Hatcliffe

Higher Level Teaching Assistant Jenny Newbolt

Teaching Assistants Melanie Balch

Kamalijeet Banghar

Claire Bryant

Marion Davis

Jo English

Samantha Garmston

Nicola George (Medical & Health Liaison)

Sarah Hawley

Naomi Saywell

Karen Thornell

School Business Manager Sue Dix

Administrative Assistants Jackie Bignell

Lesley Fudge

Heather Hieron

Reading Assistant Michelle Weeks

5

Senior Lunchbreak Supervisors Jackie Bignell

Wendy Parker

Louise Parsons

Lunchbreak Supervisor s Sue Downes

Deborah Hardwick

Carina Little

Sandra McLeary

Jayne Bendle

Natasha Derrick

Louise Parsons

Lorrita Powell

Katy Moon

Sarah Clapp

Kitchen Unit Manager Emma Langdon

Kitchen Assistants Kerry Clements

Paul Crockford

Marie Kelly

Breakfast Cook Jane Ryall

Caretakers Adrian Burnell

John Crane

Cleaners Donna Frost

Marie Kelly

Angela Pyne

Sandra Sperring

Breakfast Club Supervisors Jackie Bignell

Jayne Bendle

Sue Downes

Wendy Parker

Katy Moon

Governing Body Chair of Governors Pam Blackmore

Members Don Sibley Head Teacher

Ryan Calvey Staff

Elaine Skidmore Local Authority

Paul Staight Co-Opted (Vice Chair)

Rob English Co-Opted

Jenny Hatcliffe Co-Opted

David Llewellyn Co-Opted

Debbie Incledon Co-Opted

Rev Chris Spencer Co-Opted

Simon Brown Associate

Marie Kendall Parent

Tracey Oughton Parent

Melanie Balch Clerk

6

SECTION 2: BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Longwell Green Primary School is situated in a suburban area between Bath and Bristol. The

school was originally built to serve a private housing estate in 1963 and consisted of seven class-

rooms, a hall and administrative block. The accommodation has subsequently increased to include

a further seven classrooms. For September 2018 there will be about 405 children in the school,

organised into fourteen classes as follows. These classes are formed with a mix of age, gender,

ability and friendship groups.

Early Years Foundation Stage (Infants) Two Reception classes

These classes comprise Air Zone

Key Stage 1 (Infants)

Two Year One classes

Two Year Two classes

These classes comprise Fire Zone

Key Stage Two (Juniors) - Two Year Three classes

Two Year Four classes

These classes comprise Earth Zone

Two Year Five classes

Two Year Six classes

These classes comprise Water Zone

There is a strong emphasis on working collaboratively within the school. The current staff have

teaching experience that ranges from newly qualified colleagues through to those with 20+ years

in education.

The school seeks to prepare children for living in the 21st century, including developing their un-

derstanding of sustainability, healthy living and wellbeing as well as equipping them with life-

skills essential for their future success.

In recent years the school has established many international links and currently has links in

France and Kenya. French is taught as a second language from Reception and we often have for-

eign language assistants attached to the school.

The school has close links with many local partners including Bath Spa University, and we are

part of a local cluster of schools, called the ‘RISE Alliance’, including Redfield Edge Primary

School, Cadbury Heath Primary School, New Horizons Learning Centre and Courtney Primary

School.

The school continues to develop its facilities, with modern ICT equipment set alongside an exten-

sive and rich outdoor environment. The children are highly motivated, the parents supportive and

the links with the wider community excellent.

7

Our vision is for Longwell Green School to be in the top

20% of schools nationally, with all children achieving

their personal best and being well prepared for lifelong

learning and future successes; and to be a school sup-

ported and regarded with pride by the community.

Our school community has agreed on our core values–

they are GREAT:

Growth - We enable people to grow academically and enhance

personal well being

Respect – We respect ourselves, each other and the wider environ-

ment, recognising and valuing diversity

Enjoyment – We enjoy our time in school, through learning and

playing together

Ambition - We work together to inspire ambition, trying new chal-

lenges and taking risks in a safe environment

Togetherness – Growth, respect, enjoyment and ambition must

take place in a spirit of togetherness as learners, professionals and

friends

8

CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 2018– BE ‘GREAT’

Always do your best to GROW

Try hard with your work

Think about what you need to do

Allow others to work without being disturbed

Show RESPECT To yourself

To each other

To all adults

To the environment

ENJOY your time in school, be happy and healthy

Walk through the school quietly and sensibly

Make playtimes happy for everyone

Eat healthily

Take plenty of exercise

Show AMBITION by going for it!

Make the most of any opportunities

Help others along the way

Show TOGETHERNESS by working with others

Talk to others in a polite, well-mannered way

Always be prepared to listen to others

Remember to think before you say or do something:

We want our code of behaviour to help us make Longwell Green

School a happy and safe place for everyone to work in.

GREAT Certificates are awarded to children to say ‘well done’ for their

active participation in school.

9

.

SECTION 3: SCHOOL PROCEDURES

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Rationale

Regular and punctual attendance is encouraged so that children gain fully from all the educational op-

portunities available to them at Longwell Green Primary School. Once a pattern of good attendance is

made it should stay with them throughout their school life and beyond. See a complete copy of the

Attendance Policy and related documents on the school website

Practice

1). School Policy is based on guidance from the Department of Education. Schools cannot

authorise holidays in term time. The Headteacher can authorise absence for ‘exceptional circum-

stances’ only; in authorising absence the Headteacher will look at requests on a case by case

basis. All absences from school are disruptive and children can miss important stages of the

teaching programme. Any requests for absence must be made using a form obtained at

the office or from the parents’ download section of the school website.

2) Sickness – the office should be contacted when a child is first unwell (preferably between 8.30

am and 9.30 am). If school is not informed by 9.30 the office will telephone parents to ask for

the reason for the absence.

3) Medical Appointments – routine medical/dental appointments should be made after school or

during holidays whenever possible. If appointments are made during the school day appoint-

ment cards/letters should be obtained and brought into the office.

4) The school monitors attendance each term; the Headteacher and Education Welfare Officer

monitor children whose attendance falls below 96%. The school will work with parents to en-

sure attendance matters are addressed.

4) Punctuality – The school day starts at 8.55 and the school registers close at 9.05 If a child ar-

rives at school between 8.55 and 9.05am they will be recorded as ‘Late’, arrival after 9.05 is rec-

orded as unauthorised absence. If a child is persistently late, the Headteacher will be notified

who will then discuss any problems with the parent. Our school Education Welfare Officer and

Family Link Adviser can also support the family where help is needed.

ADMISSION ARRANGEMENTS

Coming to school is a significant event for all the family. Admission arrangements are organised by the

local authority. Applications for admission must be made through the local authority using a form that

can be obtained from the school office or online. If your child is successful in getting a place at the

school, we want to work with you to ensure that starting school is a positive experience for all. A gold-

en rule for parents is to ask if you have any concerns; don’t wait to be invited, anything to do with your

child is legitimate and we are always approachable. If everyone is open, the path towards genuine part-

nership is established.

10

CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS

Our experience is such that the great majority of concerns are resolved through informal discus-

sions with the class teacher or Headteacher. Any written complaints should be made using the

specified form available from the school office. The school’s complaints procedure is available

on the school website or from the office.

CHARGING POLICY

The school sometimes arranges non-profit making educational visits and enrichment activities to

support children’s learning. Voluntary contributions may be requested to cover basic costs. The

school retains the right to cancel any enrichment event if sufficient funds are not forthcoming. At

the beginning of the academic year the school will aim to publicise a maximum amount of con-

tribution that will be requested during the year.

The school organises an exciting and enriching residential trip in Year 6.

For residential trips all board and lodging has to be charged for. We can negotiate a longer

period of payment to assist families in spreading the cost.

Year 6 on their residential visit to Stone

Farm Study Centre on Dartmoor

11

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

The school’s insurers will not accept liability for the loss or damage to pupils’ property. Parents

are therefore strongly advised not to allow their children to bring valuable items in to school.

Mobile phones are only permitted in school for older children in the event of an emergency

and must be switched off and handed into the school office at the beginning of the school day

and collected after school. Please clearly label phones. All personal belongings should be clearly

marked with a child’s name. We have a large amount of lost property which is always cleared at

the end of each term.

SCHOOL UNIFORM & ACCESSORIES

We believe that school uniform is an important part of children’s social and personal develop-

ment and we strictly apply our uniform policy, which is set out below:

PE & Games: plain white, green, red or blue t-shirt (the school is organised into sporting

teams, the children will be told which team they are in); black shorts; daps. Football kit is not

permitted.

Footwear:

Shoes: these need to be black (including trainers)

Slippers: children in Reception are allowed to br ing slippers or suitable indoor shoes into

school to change into when arriving at school and returning to class after breaks.

Wellie boots: children in Reception, Year 1 and 2 are encouraged to br ing wellies into

school.

When going on school trips, uniform is usually required unless the teachers decide otherwise.

Alternative clothing will be stipulated in a letter ahead of the trip.

Purchase of School Uniform

Longwell Green school uniform can be purchased from Initially Yours Ltd, who supply Essential

Clothing in Soundwell. Please telephone 0117 9560909 or visit www.initiallyyours.co.uk for

more information on how and where to purchase uniform.

The school keeps a supply of certain items at the following prices:

Water bottles - £1.44

Friday Folders - £1.50

Book bags bear ing Longwell Green logo are available for purchase to protect books

carried from school to home. These are very durable and cost £3.60 each.

Parents may wish to pass to the office any items of uniform that are unwanted or outgrown.

Basic Summer

Boys Black/Grey trousers, green sweatshirt

or pullover, white or grey shirt

Black/Grey shorts

Girls Black/Grey skirt, pinafore or trousers,

green sweatshirt or cardigan, white or

grey blouse.

Green gingham or striped dress.

12

THE SCHOOL DAY

Leaving your child

When children start school in September, parents accompany children coming into Reception

class. For other year groups, and for Reception children from the beginning of term 6, children

come into school by themselves through the first door inside the gate. This helps with develop-

ing independent skills, reduces congestion and helps lessen the risk of strangers being around

school. A member of senior staff and the Family Link Adviser are at the gate to greet the chil-

dren each morning.

SCHOOL TIMES

The times of the school day are as follows:

Morning school 8.55 for all children (school gates/doors open at 8.45am)

Morning Play time EYFS/KS1 10.25 – 10.40

KS2 10.45 – 11.00

Lunch time EYFS 11.45 – 1.00

KS1 & KS2 12.00—1.00

Afternoon Play time FS/KS1 2.00 - 2.10

Home time 3.15 for all children

Meeting your child at the end of the day

All children are collected in the playground outside the exit doors through which the children

leave. Again, we request that parents stay in the playground and do not go into school to reduce

the risk of strangers in school. Parents who do need to come into school must come via the front

entrance. Please sign in and collect a visitor’s badge.

Parking

Parking is always a problem at the beginning and end of the day. Cars can drop off outside the

school until 8am but are not permitted to do so after this. Parents may use the church car park

just 100 metres from school (although there are parking permit signs the church allows parents

to use their car park for short periods during drop off and collection times). The safety of chil-

dren must be our major concern and Ellacombe Road is a dangerous place at busy times.

Thoughtless parking is always a problem, the school takes active steps to ensure the safety of the

children as they arrive or leave school, and this will include working closely with the local au-

thorities. PLEASE DO ALL YOU CAN TO HELP. The school will contact parents who

do not follow the approach described above.

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed on the school site for health and safety reasons. The only exception to this

is if a dog is being brought into class for curriculum purposes, and to assist people with a visual

impairment. Dogs should not be tied up to the school railings as this can be worrying for other

children.

13

Cycling

As a Bike It! school we encourage children (and parents) to cycle to school, and provide cycle

training for older children to give them the confidence and skills to ride safely. Please use the cy-

cle storage provided at the front of the school with a good lock. Our cycle storage caters for 40

bikes. The school cannot take responsibility for any loss.

Scooters

Scooters are a very popular means of transport which we encourage. However, children have to

exercise care when bringing scooters to school. Your co-operation in this is really appreciated. A

secure scooter storage area is provided for children to park their scooters during the school day.

This is situated on the playground just inside the main gates. In order to avoid confusion scooters

should have the child’s name or clear indication of ownership on them.

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed anywhere on the school site. We also request that adults do not smoke

directly outside the school gates for health reasons. This includes e-cigarettes.

Year 2 children having Scooter

training at school

14

SECTION 4: YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH, SAFETY AND

WELFARE WHILE AT SCHOOL

Your child’s well-being at school is of paramount importance to us. All the work we do is based

on the fact that your child will be safe and well cared for. The school has a wide range of

policies that guide what we do to ensure their well-being.

MEDICAL MATTERS

The following services make visits to school:

The School Nurse Service. The weight, height and eyesight of all the chil-

dren are checked in their Reception year, with height and weight rechecked in

Year 6. The School Nurse also accepts referrals from school.

The School Dentist visits once a year to inspect the dental health of five

year olds. Parents will be notified in writing of the date of this visit. No treatment is given during

the inspection but if your child requires treatment you will be notified. You can then decide if

you wish this to be arranged through the School Dental Service or by your own dentist.

The Audiometrician conducts hear ing tests on all children at some point dur ing their fir st

year in school. If any hearing problems are found, you will be notified and further tests are ar-

ranged.

In addition to the above the school is also fortunate in employing a part-time Medical and

Health Assistant who is responsible for overseeing the specialist medical provision for all the

children in school; she liaises with parents, teachers and medical health professionals to ensure

that all our pupils receive the best possible care and attention.

HEADLICE

Headlice are passed from person to person by head to head contact, regardless of age or how

clean their hair is. Daily combing and weekly head checks on wet hair is essential to try to pre-

vent infection. If headlice are found please inform the school who will advise other parents to be

more vigilant, without breaking any confidences. Further information on headlice and details of

the methods of treatment currently recommended are available from the school office.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES & OTHER COMMON CHILDHOOD PROBLEMS

A copy of “Guidelines for Parents on Infectious Diseases” prepared by the local Healthcare Trust

is kept in the school office along with information on other common childhood problems, includ-

ing threadworm.

Please contact the school if you have any concerns or would like further information, or visit

NHS Choices (http://www.nhs.uk/Pages/HomePage.aspx) where you will find lots of useful in-

formation.

15

ILLNESS

Should your child be ill at school we will contact you during the day. Please fill in the Pupil

Information Sheet with all relevant telephone numbers and notify us immediately of any

change of employment, address or telephone number. This form is regularly updated and

your co-operation is appreciated. IT IS VITAL THAT THIS INFORMATION IS KEPT UP

TO DATE and renewed at least annually.

If your child has had sickness and diarrhoea, they should not return to school until 48 hours

after their last incident. Any children who have sickness or diarrhoea whilst at school will

need to be collected immediately.

FIRST AID

If your child has an accident at school an Accident Note will be sent home

detailing any injuries which have been dealt with, how the accident oc-

curred and any action taken.

If your child sustains a head injury they will also be wearing a sticker to

alert parents. If school is concerned following a bump to the head parents

will be contacted to inform them of the matter.

MEDICINES

If your child has need of ongoing medication, e.g. for asthma, please contact the school office

in the first instance who will advise on the best course of action.

For children who have a condition such as diabetes, please contact the school office who will

arrange for the Medical Liaison Teaching Assistant to discuss your child’s requirements.

Any medicines that are retained in school must be clearly marked with the child’s name,

class, dosage, frequency and instructions for administering.

Prescribed Medicines

If your child requires antibiotics or prescribed medicines, parents or carers should arrange to

come to school during the day to administer this, alternatively arrange for a representative to

do this on their behalf. On occasion this is not possible and, if we are able, the school will

offer to administer medication with the following guidelines:

- an adult must bring the medication into the school office at the beginning of the

school day and collect it at the end of the school day, having completed a

‘Request to Administer Medication form’ click here for electronic copy

- Medication will be stored in the School Office fridge if necessary.

- A lunchbreak supervisor will administer the medication just before lunchtime.

- All medication must be in original packaging, with the pharmacy label clearly

showing the child’s name, dosage required and frequency of medication.

- A spoon must also be provided.

Other Medications

If your child needs any other form of medication during the school day please contact the of-

fice.

16

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH AND SAFETY

The Health and Safety Officer has explicitly advised all schools that -

a) The wearing of jewellery in PE, which includes the wearing of chains, watches, rings, earrings

and necklaces is prohibited on grounds of safety

b) The only exception is in the case of recently pierced ears. In this case a stud earring can be

worn provided the earring is completely covered (A plaster or similar being acceptable). The ear

should have healed within about six weeks and after this time the earring must be removed. I

trust that the above does clarify the position in this respect and would confirm that where pupils

do not remove jewellery they are not allowed to take part in the activity

Parents can best support their children and school by keeping to these school guidelines:

1) Studs should not be worn on the days when children have PE, games, swimming or take part

in a sporting extra-curricular activity.

2) Ensure that children are able to insert and remove studs by themselves. School staff are not

allowed to do this for the children.

Additionally the school cannot accept any liability for any lost jewellery - our advice is that

jewellery of any sort is not worn in school.

All children take part in PE, and school will contact parents if a child regularly misses lessons eg

due to lack of kit. Children are encouraged to participate in a range of sports leading to competi-

tions and we strongly support children who show sporting talent.

GUIDELINES FOR DEALING WITH CHILDREN IN SENSITIVE CIRCUMSTANCES

In a primary school with pupils aged from 4 to 11 there will inevitably be situations where chil-

dren have to be changed following soiling or spillages.

.

Guidelines: 1. The child should be treated sensitively and in private with two adults being present.

2. The child's teacher will always be informed.

3. A brief note using initials and date should be made in the accident book e.g. child (use ini-

tials) soiled - changed (name of other adult/teacher) informed. Signed and Dated .

Children enjoying a snowy day in school

17

INTERNET SAFETY Rules for safe use of the internet. 1. A list of agreed rules will be displayed in appropriate locations around the school and a copy

given to each member of staff.

2. These rules will be shared with pupils to ensure they understand their importance.

3. Should any pupil not keep to these rules, their access to and use of the internet will be re-

stricted.

4. Staff will teach the children how to use these rules through the curriculum.

5. Pupils and staff will report any material they consider offensive to the ICT co-ordinator or

headteacher. The safety filter (operated by South Gloucestershire. Council) will then be adjusted

accordingly.

6. Pupils in Key Stage One will be given access to specific websites only.

7. Pupils in Key Stage Two will conduct focussed searches using safe search engines.

8. All children will be supervised by an adult when using the internet.

9. Any email correspondence that the children are engaged in will be prearranged by the class

teacher. The school will use a secure email system.

10. Pupils may not access personal email addresses from the school system.

The ICT co-ordinator and technician will ensure that adequate virus protection is in place

throughout the school site.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY The school takes active steps to prevent bullying

Through the Personal, Social and Health Education and Citizenship curriculum, knowledge,

skills and attitudes are developed that help to prevent bullying.

Staff interact happily and positively among themselves, providing a strong role model for

children.

School Council provide practical information and a ‘child’s perspective’ that informs staff in

the prevention of bullying.

Input from external agencies (such as theatre groups) help to inform children about bullying,

suggesting strategies to avoid it.

Staff have regular training in anti-bullying strategies

The school systematically commends, rewards and celebrates appropriate behaviour.

Where bullying might be happening the school takes steps to intervene and resolve any

problems quickly; a log is kept and bullying of any form is not tolerated.

SAFEGUARDING POLICY We have clear safeguarding procedures in the school that ensure we follow local and na-

tional guidelines:

We have a clear policy on Child Protection that is communicated to all staff, volunteers and stu-

dents, and there are regular updates and training.

We implement a safe recruitment and induction programme for all new staff, volunteers and

trainees that includes appropriate information, training, observation and mentoring.

We implement a Code of Conduct for all staff, volunteers and trainees that gives clear guidance

regarding appropriate behaviour at work.

We create a culture that is visibly intolerant of abuse i.e. a ‘safer school culture’.

We ensure that the curriculum gives pupils opportunities to explore what is meant by a ‘safer

school culture’.

We have a wide range of policies that comprise the school’s Safeguarding Procedures.

18

NUTRITION AT SCHOOL

The school plays an active role in teaching children about health and nutrition and does this through the

curriculum but also through what food is makes available to children in school.

Aspens, a specialist catering company, provides our Breakfast Club and lunchtime food; go to https://

www.aspens-services.co.uk for more information about their services.

Breakfast Club

Breakfast Club runs daily, and the food served is regulated by national nutritional guidelines to produce

tasty and healthy breakfasts. Prices are published in the school newsletter and are available on request -

for more information please see our Breakfast Club leaflet https://

www.longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk/breakfast-club/

School Lunches

All children in FS and KS1 are entitled to a free cooked meal under a government initiative.

Good quality school meals are cooked on the premises daily by Aspens to meet stringent nutritional meal

standards. The cost, for children in KS2, is £2.00 per day. (Any changes will be notified in the newslet-

ter.) All school meals must be paid for before school starts on Monday via the School Money online pay-

ment system. The school operates a No Debt policy - any school meals must be paid for in advance.

Packed Lunches

Children may bring a packed lunch. Please provide a suitable container clearly labelled with your child’s

name. As part of the school’s healthy eating approach, we encourage a good mix of healthy foods and

regularly advise parents about appropriate contents of packed lunches; in

line with our cooked lunch policy, only water is permitted as part of a

packed lunch. If parents require any advice, we are very happy to provide

it. We recommend a good proportion of carbohydrates (bread, pasta or

rice), plenty of fruit and vegetables and some dairy, meat or fish produce.

Crisps, biscuits and cakes should be limited to a couple of times a week.

Please do not send in glass bottles, cans, fizzy drinks or sweets, and please

note that children are expected to bring all their waste back home. If chil-

dren bring in items that do not follow this policy a note will be sent home.

Mid morning snack

Only fresh fruit or vegetables are allowed as a snack during the morning. Children in

Reception and KS1 receive free daily fruit under the government scheme. We provide

a tuck shop during the morning break for KS2 children at which they can buy a variety

of fruit. Children in KS2 can also bring in fruit from home if they wish.

Milk

All reception children receive free milk until their 5th birthday. They then have the opportunity to pur-

chase a carton of milk through the Milk Service. Please contact the school office for further information.

19

SECTION 5: CHILDREN’S ACHIEVEMENT AND ENJOYMENT

THE CURRICULUM

EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE

The school believes passionately in providing a curriculum that is broad and balanced. When

children enter school in Early Years Foundation Stage (Reception) their curriculum is based on

the Early Years Foundation Stage, with seven areas of learning (three prime and four specific):

Learning experiences are provided that meet the developmental needs of all children, carefully

selected across the day to ensure children have a mixture of direct teaching and exploring their

own interests.

KEY STAGES 1 AND 2

When children move into Year 1, and during their next six years in school, the children’s curric-

ulum comprises the Primary Curriculum, the locally agreed syllabus for Religious Education

(RE), and Relationship, Sex Education (RSE). The curriculum is organised into distinct subjects:

English; maths; science; computing; history; geography; art and design; design technology;

physical education; French; Personal, Social and Health Education and RE. However, the school

links the subjects whenever possible through planning interesting and exciting topics. These are

shared with parents. In addition children enjoy ‘WOW’ days as part of these topics; information

will be shared with parents when appropriate.

All children receive personalised daily learning in English and maths. In other subjects, learning

is based on programmes of work that help children develop their knowledge, skills and under-

standing appropriate to their age. Children within each year group follow the same topic each

term.

Children also develop key ‘learning skills’: In EYFS and KS1 they are based on the

‘Achievasaurs’ - Thinkadon; Askolophus; Stickasaurus; Solveasaurus Rex; Tryatops and Shareo-

docus. In KS2 these become: Concentrate; Work Hard; Understand Others; Don’t Give Up;

Push Yourself; Imagine; Try New Things and Improve. Children in Years 5 and 6 also follow

the Water Zone Awards scheme that promotes participation in school, and wider, life.

ASSESSMENT AND TRACKING PROCESSES

In the EYFS, children are assessed when they come into school (Baseline Assessment) and then

through ongoing observations by teachers and other adults, and these are recorded in their learn-

ing diaries, which are shared with parents. The children are assessed using the Foundation Stage

Profile as set out in the Department of Education Statutory Framework for Early Years Founda-

tion Stage.

In Key Stages 1 and 2, children are regularly assessed in the core subjects of English and maths

through normal class activities. There are also regular tests to support this process. Children’s

progress is tracked continuously throughout the year so that any child slipping behind is identi-

fied and supported. In KS2, children also have indicators for future performance and we use

these indicators to ensure we challenge children to make the progress they are capable of. Chil-

dren in Year 2 and Year 6 also undertake national assessments in the summer.

Prime Specific

Personal, Social & Emotional Develop-

ment; Communication and Language;

Physical Development

Literacy; Mathematics; Understanding the

World; Expressive Arts & Design

20

FRENCH

We aim to foster enjoyment and enthusiasm for language learning in our children and have a whole

school commitment to the teaching of French. An introduction to basic vocabulary, phrases and con-

versation is given in Foundation Stage and Key Stage One that is extended into simple writing activities

throughout Key Stage Two. This structured programme is based on participation in fun activities and

experiences involving a wide range of resources. Over recent years we have enjoyed visits from a na-

tive French teaching assistant and have welcomed French students here as part of their teacher training

programme.

BRITISH VALUES AND GLOBAL EDUCATION

Throughout the curriculum are opportunities fro children to understand about British Values : democra-

cy; the rule of law; individual liberty; mutual respect for and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

As well as learning a modern foreign language while at school, the children are also involved in other

global work, either with our partner schools or through the curriculum which aims to help prepare them

for living in a diverse world.

WOW DAYS

Every year group has a WOW day each term to learn more about the topics studied. Here are some ex-

amples:

Squirrel Class Superhero WOW Day - they had vis-

its from a nurse, vet, ambulance and the RNLI.

Year 2 children went back in time when they

came to school dressed as bakers and chefs

from the Pudding Lane Bakery. They looked

spectacular and had a thoroughly exciting

day learning lots about the Great Fire of

London

Year 4 Viking WOW Day - a Viking

came and set up camp in the school

hall!

21

PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION (PSHE) The school’s approach is to integrate PHSE within the normal school curriculum and to invite

external “experts” into school to discuss PSHE issues as appropriate e.g. road safety, nutrition,

sex education, “stranger danger”, disability etc.

Sex and Relationship Education (S.R.E.)

The potentially sensitive area that the governors, by law, must have a policy for is Sex and

Relationship Education (S.R.E.). The school’s S.R.E. policy is called Healthy Relationships and

is aimed at equipping children with a good rounded approach to these issues following inputs

building on their learning in science.

Moral and Values Framework

The S.R.E. programme will reflect the school’s values and will encourage the following:

Respect for self

Respect for others

Responsibility for developing ‘togetherness’ within their families, friends, school and

wider community.

Implementation

SRE is not an isolated programme, but a part of the schools overall P.S.H.E. programme.

Parents will be informed prior to the set educational part of the S.R.E. programme being

shared with pupils

Some of the sessions are led by the school’s Medical and Health Liaison Assistant

Sometimes a child will ask an explicit or difficult question in the classroom. Questions do

not have to be answered directly, and can be addressed individually later. This school be-

lieves that individual teachers must use their skill and discretion in these situations and re-

fer to the Headteacher if they are concerned.

We aim to deliver this part of the P.S.H.E. programme in the latter part of each academic

year.

As part of the monitoring and evaluation of this policy, a list of questions posed by our

Year 6 pupils in this context will be collated.

As part of our PSHE curriculum we also offer the following:

Regular opportunities to practise mindfulness

Mixed-age groups for eating lunch from Year 1 to Year 6

Additional opportunities at lunchtimes

PASTORAL SUPPORT IN SCHOOL

The school employs Teaching Assistants in addition to teachers, and one of their roles is to sup-

port the children’s personal, social and emotional wellbeing. They will discuss issues that arise

with individual children and will liaise with senior staff so that all children have their needs met.

In addition, our Family Link Adviser has time dedicated to support children who may be in need

of extra attention.

22

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

We follow the statutory requirements which were set up for all schools in the country. In prac-

tice we draw heavily upon the South Gloucestershire Agreed Syllabus .

The aims of our policy are:

to educate the whole child in the sense of their physical, emotional, spiritual, moral and

cultural education

to enable children to understand the nature of religion and what it would mean to take

religion seriously through an understanding of explicit religious beliefs and practices

and a reflection on spirituality (inner feelings, experiences, thoughts and curiosity)

The way this is actually done in school is through:

making time for a worthwhile study of Religious Education.

including Religious Education, where appropriate, within our topic cycle

teaching about all the major religions

COLLECTIVE WORSHIP

The law states that there should be collective worship held daily in some form and that it should

be “wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character”. The structure of the schools timetable

and pattern of assemblies meets this need.

Opting Out Procedure

Should parents not wish their child to participate in this aspect of the curriculum, they should

discuss the matter with the Headteacher in order that all the issues relating to “opting out” may

be explored e.g. alternative supervision arrangements.

Children in Year 4 learning more

about Diwali

23

CHILDREN’S CONTRIBUTION TO THEIR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

We encourage children to be active members of their school community and they can do this in a

number of ways. For example children are monitors in their own classrooms, in their corridor

areas or in the hall. Children are also invited to join a variety of school teams:

The School Council: this team is elected each year from children in Years 2 to 6, with one boy

and one girl elected from each class (20 children). Children can only be a school councillor once

during their time at school. The School Council meets regularly to discuss issues such as play

equipment, new staff appointments and behaviour.

The Eco Team: this team is made up of volunteers (about 12

children), and they monitor the energy use in school and think

of new ways the school can be more sustainable, such as plant-

ing trees - see photograph.

In Years 5 and 6 children are expected to increase their partici-

pation in school life through the Water Zone Award Scheme.

One way children in Year 6 do this is through their monitor

roles.

Play Leaders: these children help to lead playground

games.

PLAY

The school believes that play is fundamental to children’s development and that a good quality

play environment is essential in a school. We have a gold accreditation from the Outdoor Play

and Learning Project (OPAL) and have an ambitious plan to improve our school grounds so that

children are stimulated and excited by playtimes. The Friends of Longwell Green are keen to

support this development by raising essential funds, and over the past years they have provided

money to help us buy a ‘Playpod’ (a store for scrap that helps children use their imagination to

create new play, climbing equipment and a sensory garden.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Children have many opportunities to take part in wider community events, such as sporting

activities involving other schools and musical performances to audiences made up of people

from the local community. At a recent concert one member of the audience said, ‘Thank you for

giving us so much pleasure’. The school also encourages children to play a role in many charity

events each year and participation in community involvement outside of school is recognised

and celebrated. Children are encouraged to develop their entrepreneurial skills at regular school

trade fairs. If parents are keen to establish community links they should contact the school office.

Our charity fair in the summer of 2017 raised money for our link school in Kenya, The Little

Angels Academy.

24

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

We enrich the curriculum by offering a range of additional activities that help to stimulate, ex-

cite and motivate children. These activities help with children’s learning and development.

We offer day visits to sites of educational interest, such as the Roman Baths and Wild Place

and we take children on a residential trip in Year 6 to Dartmoor. We have many visitors lead-

ing enrichment activities in school such as the Explorer Dome and Life Education Bus.

Trying new challenges on a

residential trip .

Intra School

Tag Rugby

competition

Year 3 Personal

Projects on Ex-

treme Earth Year 6 test week wellbeing and breakfast sessions

25

SECTION 6: WORKING WITH PARENTS

AND EXTENDED SERVICES

WORKING TOGETHER WITH PARENTS

Friends of Longwell Green School (FOLGS)

When parents and staff join the school community they become a part of the Friends of Longwell Green School

(FOLGS) - we are all part of this group. The committee consists of an elected board of five trustees and mem-

bers, who attend meetings and help organise the events, throughout the school year. The committee rely on addi-

tional help from the school community to help support and run these events by volunteering their time. You can

choose to be as involved as you want and we warmly welcome all help received. Ways to get involved include

joining the committee and attending meetings, baking, volunteering an hour (or more) of your time to run a stall

and encouraging your children to get involved.

Over recent years the funds raised have been used to purchase new reading books, ICT equipment, climbing

equipment and we are currently funding the new sensory garden. This is in addition to the annual contributions

towards school trips, cooking equipment and Christmas parties. In short, all our children benefit so what better

reason to get involved.

Major fund-raising events include: Summer Fayre (June), Festive Fayre (November), Christmas and Easter Dis-

cos. We also hold Community Book Sales and Nearly New Sales throughout the school year.

The FOLGS trustees can be contacted through the school office or our FOLGS Facebook page. It will be great to

see some new faces at our next meeting so please come along if you can.

Parent Helpers

One of the great strengths of our school is gained through the support parents give. This happens in all sorts of

ways throughout the year. A large number of parents are able to commit themselves to helping in a classroom on

a regular basis and are most welcome.

We find that parents have many skills which can be used to benefit our pupils. In practice we find the majority of

children appreciate mums, dads and grandparents working in a nearby class. Obviously we expect a caring atti-

tude, confidentiality and an appreciation of the school’s values. Our parents enjoy the nature of the tasks they are

given under the guidance of the class teacher. The system works well and parents, staff and most importantly,

children, all gain hugely. Please let your child’s class teacher know if you could offer help in this way. The

school provides a guide for parent helpers to help them get the most out of their time.

Home Learning

There are many occasions when we expect children to undertake work at home to support their learning. Infor-

mation regarding the specific tasks and amounts are available from your child’s class teacher. We look to parents

to encourage and support their child doing homework by taking an interest in the work they are doing. The occa-

sions when work at home is encouraged are summarised below:

hearing children read and sharing books together. This is the single most important thing parents can help

with!

supporting children in their learning of basic numeracy skills and tables

talking about what children are learning in class, and visiting relevant websites and the library etc

helping with longer term projects, eg personal challenge.

discussing local and topical issues

Some children have Individual Education Plans which may involve additional home learning.

Year 6 children have a more formalised home-learning regime as a preparation for transfer to secondary school.

26

Parents meet formally with their child’s teacher three times a year.

September : An Introductory meeting to enable parents to learn about the class organisation,

behaviour expectations, home learning and the year’s programmes of study.

Autumn: Individual appointments with your child’s teacher

Spring: Individual appointments with your child’s teacher

July: Any matters that ar ise from a child’s written report may be discussed with the teacher

(please see below).

In addition there will be opportunities to meet with school staff to find out about the curriculum

and children’s learning.

The school has a Family Link Adviser and she will meet with all new parents and also any parent

who needs to discuss family issues.

The school operates an open door policy to discuss any matters relating to school life. This means

parents are welcome to contact the Headteacher, their child’s teacher or the Family Link

Adviser at any time. Should the school have any concern about your child’s progress in any way

you will be contacted.

Written Report

A written report outlining your child’s progress and attainment over the academic year is provided

at the end of the year.

Newsletter

There is a weekly newsletter that informs families about what is happening in school. This is e-

mailed out every Friday and paper copies are available from the office if required. The newsletter

is also available to view on the school website by Friday afternoon.

Text messaging and e-mails

The school uses text messaging and e-mails to alert parents to key bits of information eg about

school closures

Focus Groups

Parents are sometimes invited to join a school Focus Group that looks at an aspect of school life

that is being developed eg communication, behaviour, ICT.

The Website

There is much more information for parents on the school website;

www.longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk

General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)

If you would like to know more about the data we hold on you and your child and how this data is

used please visit the GDPR section of the school website https://

www.longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk/gdpr/. As this legislation is just being introduced the in-

formation there will be updated on a regular basis.

27

EXTENDED SERVICES

Breakfast Club

Breakfast Club provides care for children from 7:45 am each morning allowing parents to drop their

children off early. Booking and payment is made via the online payment system. Please ask Breakfast

Club supervisors, the school office or visit the website for current prices and details of the breakfast

menu available from the school kitchen.

Children who receive Pupil Premium support are entitled to a free breakfast, up to the value of £1.00, at

Breakfast Club.

After-school club

After School Club will run from 3.15 pm until 6.00 pm Monday to Friday, term time only. Bookings

can be made daily, weekly or termly via the online booking and payment system, the cost of each ses-

sion will be £9 per child, £6 for any siblings. Last minute bookings can only be taken if there is space

available. Log in information for the online system will be sent home when your child starts school.

Activities will be organised in a structured way to provide a calm and purposeful environment. There

will usually be an opportunity for an outside activity.

A light snack will be provided during the club. Early collections can be arranged.

For more information please contact the school office.

Extra-Curricular Activities

The school always runs a wide range of clubs after school to help with the all round development of

children. In the last year activities have included drama, gymnastics, football, girls cricket, hockey, art

and Italian, choir, German. Please see the school office for current details.

We also take part in local organised sporting events such as football, tag rugby, netball, cross country

and kwik cricket which gives children the chance to compete against other teams.