Redwell Primary School

Redwell Primary School
Barnwell Road
Wellingborough
Northants
NN8 5LQ
01933 676040
[email protected]
Head Teacher:
Mrs Anne Ansell
(Bed Hons, NPQH, NLE)
2
CONTENTS
Welcome from the Head Teacher
3
Open access to records
11
Welcome from the Chair of Governors
4
Data Protection Act
11
Admissions
5
Complaints procedure
11
Curriculum statement
5
Charging
11
Equal opportunities
5
Parental involvement
12
Behaviour/discipline
6
Parent helpers
12
The school day
7
Redwell Helping Hands
12
School uniform
7
Parent Council
12
PE
7
Classroom organisation
13
Lost property & personal possessions
7
Home learning
13
Safety and security
8
Gifted and talented children
13
Smoking
8
Children with special needs
13
Dogs
8
Child protection
13
Parking
8
The curriculum
14
Bicycles
8
Assessment
14
School Council
9
English and Maths
15
House Teams
9
Foundation subjects
16
Lunchtimes
9
Foundation subjects
17
Money
9
Extra curricular activities
18
Health and welfare
10
Educational visits
18
Head lice
10
Insurance
19
Attendance and absence
10
Ofsted
19
3
Dear Parents
I would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your child on the
beginning of their journey into education. Our aim is to have a positive &
successful partnership with you in order to make your child’s time at our
school an extremely happy and memorable learning experience.
At Redwell Primary School we value the involvement of parents in their child’s
education. The school is ours to share. Both as parents and teachers, our joint
interest is the welfare and education of the children. In order to achieve the
very best for each child we must work co-operatively and collaboratively.
Encouragement with home learning tasks and promoting the highest
standards of school Values and behaviour will enhance your child’s success.
By working together, we can continue to build upon the firm foundation
already put in place from their pre-school experiences. All who work at
Redwell Primary School, endeavour to promote a safe, happy and caring
environment where all children are valued and success at all levels is
celebrated. In welcoming you to Redwell Primary School, I reassure you that
the children in our care will be well looked after in a secure, happy and caring
community.
Anne Ansell
Head Teacher
4
Dear Parents/Carers
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you and your children to Redwell Primary
School. The purpose of this letter is to inform you as parents/carers about the role of the
Governing Body, and what its specific responsibilities are.
The Governors have a wide range of duties and responsibilities, and meet regularly in full
meetings and committees to carry them out. Full meetings are held each term to discuss
issues relating to the running of the school; and sub-committee meetings are held on a
regular basis. The Governing Body consists of Community Governors, a Staff Governor, a
Teacher Governor, representatives from the Local Authority, Head Teacher and Parent
Governors. All Governors serve for a period of four years.
The Governing Body has three sub-committees, each with its own Terms of Reference,
which defines its organisation and key areas of responsibility. This process ensures that all
issues are thoroughly reviewed and discussed prior to the formal decision and approval
processes at Full Governing Body meetings.
The sub-committees have a specific and strategic responsibility to review and oversee the
development of the school and cover the following areas of successful school management:



Finance and Personnel
Development
Premises
4 Parent Governors are part of the Governing Body. These Governors are elected by you
the parents and any parent of a child attending the school at the time of the election is
entitled to stand for that election.
As Governors, we acknowledge that education is a process that involves the school, parents
and the children. As parents, we ask you to support your child’s education and
development needs by:



adhering to the Home School Agreement
supporting the school
supporting your child at all times
We wish each and every one of you and your children a happy and successful time with us
here at Redwell Primary School.
Caren Ingold
Chair Of Governors
On behalf of the Governors of Redwell Primary School
5
ADMISSIONS POLICY
Places will be allocated to pupils who have a statement of SEN (Special Educational Need)
that names the school as appropriate provision. When there are more applications for
places than there are places available, priority will be given in the following order:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Children in public care
Pupils with an older brother or sister continuing at the school or the linked junior
school at the time of admission of the younger child.
Pupils who live closer to the preferred school than any other school.
Other pupils.
If the admission number is exceeded within criterion (3) priority will be given to those who
live furthest from the nearest alternative school. If the admission number is exceeded
within any other criterion, priority will be given to those who live closest to the school.
THE CURRICULUM
The curriculum at Redwell fully reflects the requirements of the National Curriculum and
County Policy. We aim to ensure that children acquire the skills and knowledge necessary
to facilitate enthusiastic learning and help them to progress. Positive attitudes to work are
established immediately. Our aim is that the children will become independent, curious,
questioning and adaptable, and that this will be accomplished in an atmosphere of
respect, happiness, security and calm. Our expectations are high and we encourage each
child to reach their full potential. Great care is taken in planning. Teaching methods vary
according to the type of activity or the objectives of a particular session. We are aware
that children have different learning styles and provide a variety of activities in order to
ensure equal access.
EQUALITY
The curriculum of the school is designed at every stage to promote harmony and respect
for all and to provide equal opportunities, regardless of race, nationality, disability or
special educational need, gender, age, sexual orientation and religious belief.
6
BEHAVIOUR / DISCIPLINE
The school has a policy on behaviour management and anti-bullying which are available. We
expect children at Redwell to be well behaved, self-disciplined and confident. We expect parents
to work with the school in partnership to support these policies. When your child starts at our
school you will be asked to sign a contract, a Home School Agreement. It is our aim to build upon
the discipline already established at home and at pre-school and we enter into this contract with
you as part of our belief in partnership between home and school.
We have a system of rewards and sanctions to reward good behaviour and prevent unacceptable
behaviour. Staff set a good example to the children in the way we value each other and the way
we behave with them and you. Care, courtesy, consideration and respect are the key words in our
code of behaviour. Every child has a right to feel safe, the right to respect and the right to learn.
All children have the responsibility to ensure that this happens. Staff use positive behaviour
management strategies. They use verbal praise, sharing success, public celebration, stickers,
letters home, certificates, text alerts, merits, values pebbles and house points at various times
during the school year. Records are kept of challenging behaviour and parents are informed and
involved at an early stage if we have to use sanctions.
All incidents of racial harassment or bullying are recorded and reported as per the
Northamptonshire Policy. These incidents are taken very seriously and are dealt with quickly.
Parents are involved in discussions about strategies and solutions. Exclusion from lessons or from
staying at school for lunch is very rarely necessary and only occurs if the school’s programme of
positive behaviour management does not succeed and the school does not have the resources to
meet the child’s need. We adhere to the Northamptonshire policy on exclusion.
We expect adults to demonstrate respect and model positive behaviour for the children in our
school. Inappropriate behaviour towards any member of staff or adult in our school will not be
tolerated. If you witness any such behaviour please report it to the school office, reports will be
treated sensitively.
7
THE SCHOOL DAY for KS1
THE SCHOOL DAY for KS2
8.50 am
9.00 am
10.30 am
12.00 noon
1.15 pm
2.45 pm
3.25 pm
3.30 pm
8.53 am
9.00 am
10.35 am
12.00 noon
1.00 pm
3.30 pm
Doors open
Doors Closed & Registration
Morning break
Lunchtime
Registration
Afternoon break
Reception School Day Ends
Y1 to Y2 School Day Ends
Doors open
Doors Closed & Registration
Morning break
Lunchtime
Registration
Y3 to Y6 School Day Ends
You are asked to respect these times and to ensure that your child arrives and leaves
punctually. Teaching time starts at 9.00 am prompt; children will be welcomed into school
and should enter school via their class door, and be collected from there at the end of the
day.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
The school is frequently complimented on the children's excellent behaviour. We believe
that children wearing uniform is part of discipline; a uniform contributes to a common
value and identity system within a school. All children are therefore expected to wear the
correct school uniform. Our uniform colour is burgundy. Book bags with the school logo
and PE bags can be purchased from the school. Our uniform is available to order on line as
follows:
School Uniform:
Charcoal trousers, skirt, culottes or shorts
Burgundy school jumper with logo
White polo shirt
Grey socks or tights
Black shoes
Black PE shorts
White T-shirt
Plimsolls for the summer (We will inform you when plimsolls are needed).
PE
In order to comply with safety regulations, the children must have shorts (plain black) and a
short sleeved T-shirt (white) for PE. Children also need plimsolls. For health and safety
reasons, no jewellery is permitted in school and long hair should be tied back at all times.
Should a child have pierced ears, only small studs should be worn. These must be removed
by the child before they undertake PE or games. If not removed, the child will miss their
entitlement to the PE curriculum or parents may be contacted to remove the earrings.
Children with long hair will need to tie hair back for PE.
LOST PROPERTY and PERSONAL POSSESSIONS
Each child will be expected to take care of his/her own property. Items that are found and
are identifiable will be returned to their owner. Other items will be kept for a term;
thereafter the school will dispose of them.
PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS OF CLOTHING CLEARLY!
This makes the task of returning lost property much easier. Space is limited in cloakrooms
and so we are unable to accommodate large bags; please think small! Children need only
bring their book bag, lunch and PE kit to school.
8
SAFETY and SECURITY
We take the subject of school security very seriously, and issues relating to security are
continuously under review by the Head Teacher and other staff, the Governors' Resources
Committee and the full Governing Body and the site supervisor.
We do our best to ensure that all external doors from classrooms and into the covered area are
locked against intruders during the school day. We also secure site gates between the hours of
9.15am and 3.15pm. access for parents and visitors are through the front gates only.
E-Safety is also a high priority, staff follow the county policies on internet safety and we expect
parents / guardians to support this.
SMOKING
To comply with the Health Act 2006 and in the interest of health and safety,
the school site is a “smoke free” environment.
DOGS
For health and safety reasons the Governing Body has declared the school site a dog free zone
(except guide dogs).
PARKING
For the safety of the children of the school, parents’ cars must not be brought into the school car
park. If you need to deliver your child by car, please respect these simple safety points:

avoid parking on the zigzag lines

avoid turning in the school entrance

be considerate to our neighbours and avoid parking across their drives

if parking at the Leisure Centre, please respect the ‘staff only’ and disabled bays
In exceptional circumstances, a car park pass may be issued by the Governing Body; please apply
in writing to the Chair of Governors, care of the school.
BICYCLES
The school recognises both the health and environmental benefits of cycling and wishes to
promote safe cycling to school. The Governors’ policy is that a child should not cycle to school
unaccompanied by an adult unless he/she has successfully completed the ‘Bikeability’ Level 2
Award (this is only available to children aged 10 or over). Therefore this is mainly relevant to the
older children. Children in school years 3, 4 and 5 should only cycle if accompanied by an adult. All
children wishing to cycle to school and leave their cycle on the premises must apply for a permit
from the school office. The number of permits issued will be limited to 20. Children who have
passed the Level 2 Award will have first allocation. Permits can be withdrawn and this will prohibit
the cycle being brought onto the school premises. Cycle Stands are available on school premises
for those with cycle permits. It is recommended that all cycles be locked to a stand. Cycles
should be fully roadworthy and properly maintained; it is the responsibility of parents to do this.
Checks should include:

both brakes working

tyres correctly inflated

handlebars and saddles straight and tight

front, rear and wheel reflectors on the cycle

both lights working (if riding in the winter months)
Children should wear a helmet which conforms to current British Standards. High visibility
garments are recommended too. All cyclists should be aware of the rules of the Highway Code
relating to cycling and follow these at all times. We suggest that parents identify the safest
cycling route to school with their children and point out particular hazards and danger points.
Cycling on footpaths creates an unacceptable risk to pedestrians. Cycling is not permitted on the
school premises.
9
SCHOOL COUNCIL
The School Council consists of two representatives per class, elected by their classmates. The
Council meet regularly to raise and discuss school issues and plan and execute their own
projects. Councillors hold meetings with their class to gain opinion from all children; this is then
taken to the Council meeting, discussed and the results reported back to class. The School
Council provides a forum for all pupils to have a voice.
HOUSE SYSTEM
A house system operates with all children being allocated to house team. House Captains and
Vice Captains are elected annually. Children gain house points for a variety of reasons. Each
week the points are calculated and celebrated in the whole school celebration assembly. During
the year, various house events and competitions take place.
LUNCHTIMES
Children can bring a packed lunch to eat in school at lunchtime or they may go home for lunch.
Children going home to lunch should not return before 1.10 p.m. Packed lunches should be sent
to school in a labelled, container and drinks should be in a plastic container, not a glass bottle
or can. For your child’s safety we do not allow hot or fizzy drinks. We advise the inclusion of an
ice pack in warmer weather. Children are encouraged to eat whatever has been provided. We
ask that you provide a straw for drinks and a spoon for yoghurts. We are unable to
accommodate warm food or cooked mid-day meals from home. As there are a number of
pupils with severe nut allergies, we request that nuts and nut products are not packed in lunch
boxes. Each class eats their lunch in the hall or their own classroom under supervision. If you
receive Income Support your child is entitled to a free school meal; application forms from the
school office. As part of the NCC hot school meals scheme, we offer hot meals in school.
From September 2014 all pupils in Reception, year 1 and
year 2 in state-funded schools in England will be eligible for
free school meals (UFSMs). The legal requirement on
schools will be to provide a lunchtime meal that meets the
School Food Standards. As such all pupils in Reception and
KS1 will routinely be offered a hot meal option which can be
ordered on-line through our hot meal provider ‘Nourish’.
MONEY
Money should not be brought to school except for specific purposes. Money for outings and
clubs should be placed in an envelope clearly marked with your child’s name and class. This
should be handed to the school office.
10
HEALTH AND WELFARE
There will be times when you are not sure whether to send your child to school. The principle
should be that you look after your child at home if they are unwell. School staff cannot administer
medicines unless they are prescribed. Prescription medicines will only be administered to
children with chronic illness e.g. asthma, diabetes, epilepsy etc. Individual cases should be
discussed with the Head Teacher.
In cases of sickness and diarrhoea, children must not return to school
until they have been clear for a minimum of 24 hours.
In the event of minor illness during school time, children will be looked after in school whilst we
make contact with you. Minor injuries are dealt with when they arise but it is essential that the
school have up to date details as to where parents can be reached in any emergency. This
information needs to be revised when you change your address, job or telephone number.
It is essential that we have a minimum of 2 up-to-date emergency contacts.
HEAD LICE
The Children & Young People’s Specialist Health Nurse no longer checks children’s hair for head
lice. Responsibility for the control of head lice lies entirely with parents, though help may be
sought from the Children & Young People’s Specialist Health Nurse or from the Family Practitioner.
The School Nurse conducts routine tests of hearing and sight. She will contact you if she is
concerned about anything or if a health and growth check is thought to be advisable.
There is no longer a regular check for head lice. Parents are asked to:

try to prevent head lice by combing their children’s hair every night

examine their children's hair each week

treat head lice or their eggs promptly

inform the school

respond to "head check alerts" by thoroughly checking their child's hair

keep long hair tied up
Once a week...take a peek!
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE
Regular & punctual attendance at school is essential for enabling children to do their best; there
are expectations for pupils, parents and the school to enable this to happen. These expectations
are set out in the Home School Agreement which all parents and pupils are asked to sign. If your
child is absent or late to the extent that it begins to affect their progress we will speak to you or
send you a letter. If your child is absent from school for any reason, please let us know by
telephone, email or letter on the first day of absence. If a phone call or note is not received, the
school will contact you on the first morning. A pupil’s absence from school will be considered as
unauthorised until a satisfactory explanation is received from the parent. If a child’s attendance
falls below 90% the Education Entitlement Service (EES) will be notified. Requests for absence
during term time must be made to the Head Teacher.
Due to recent amendments in the Education (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2006,
Head Teachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time unless there are exceptional
circumstances. If the leave is granted, it is at the Head Teacher’s discretion to determine the
number of school days a child can be away from school. The current law does not give any
entitlement to parents to take their child on holiday during term time and parents can be fined for
taking their child on holiday during term time . Please also be aware that any unauthorised
absence will remain on your child’s record for the entire duration of their education.
11
OPEN ACCESS TO RECORDS
The Local Authority has a policy that schools should keep pupil profiles and records. Record folders
are opened as children are admitted to school. The folder, which will be added to and reviewed
annually, is passed onto the child’s next school. The folder will hold the following information:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Name, address, date of birth, doctor etc.
Information concerning the child’s personal circumstances.
Reports and records of the child’s achievements.
Behaviour/racist incident reports
Communication between home and school
Please note that it is the Authority’s policy to provide open access to all records of employees and
pupils. Parents may, if they wish, ask to see their children’s records by appointment with the Head
Teacher. Records will be confidential to all except those who have a rightful access to them.
DATA PROTECTION ACT
Information from home is gathered initially on an enrolment form. This is entered on the
school’s electronic Management Information System and is covered by the Data Protection Act.
Parents will be given a copy of the data held each year so that it can be checked and updated if
necessary. We would emphasise that it is vital that we are informed of any changes in
emergency phone numbers or in any other essential information immediately they take effect.
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE
The Governing Body has adopted the NCC Complaints Procedure. Should we be unable to resolve
a major problem then parents have the right to make a formal complaint. In the first instance,
they should contact the Chair of Governors, at the school address. Should the problem still
remain unresolved then a formal complaint can be made to Northamptonshire County Council
through their complaints procedure. A copy of the school’s policy and procedure on complaints
is available on request.
CHARGING
The schooling which children receive must, by law, remain free of charges; however, schools are
able to seek contributions from parents to off-set certain costs. The policy of the Governors of
Redwell Primary School is to seek voluntary donations from parents for events & day visits.
Whilst, by law, no child will be precluded from taking part due to the inability of parents to
donate, it must be pointed out that if parents do not pay then the school may not be able to fund
such educational visits. In cases of genuine financial hardship, we are pleased to help and you
should discuss this, in confidence, with the Head Teacher.
12
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
There are many opportunities for parents to become involved in their children's education. For
most parents this will take the form of showing an interest in and providing support for their own
children's development as they progress through the school. Some parents may feel that they
wish to become more actively involved in school matters and there are several ways in which this
can be accomplished. You are also invited to our celebration assembly which is held every
Thursday at 9.00 am in EYFS/KS1 and on Friday at 9:00am in KS2.
Three times each year you will be offered the chance of feedback on how your child is performing
at school. In autumn and spring, this will take the form of parents’ appointments with a time set
aside for you to discuss your child’s progress. In July a written summary of progress will be sent
to you. All children will be expected to undertake home learning each week; your help in
encouraging this would be extremely beneficial.
If something goes wrong you may feel, or your child’s teacher may feel, that much closer contact
needs to be made. This can be helpful in clearing up the small doubts and difficulties children
experience from time to time. In emergencies, we will try to see you immediately, but a phone
call to the school office before your visit is the best way to ensure that someone will be available
to see you.
PARENT HELPERS
Parental help is most welcome at school and is offered in many guises. Parents may assist when
extra supervision is required (e.g. for RHH events). They may collaborate with the class teacher if
they possess certain items, skills or specialist knowledge, which is relevant to the children's
studies. Some parents enjoy helping groups of children in the classroom in the course of their
studies, whilst others may assist with the mounting and display of work. Some parents help
regularly; others volunteer their services as the need arises; others may wait to be asked. If you
fall into any of these categories, please let us know your strengths, skills and/or interests so that
our children can benefit further from your interest and support. If you can find a regular time,
however short, which you can offer to the school, you are most welcome to come in and help. All
volunteers have to be DBS checked which the school will organise. If you are interested please
see the office.
FAMILY LINK WORKER (FLW)
Since September 2009 we have had FLW’s at school, these are Mrs Ruth Gilbert and Mrs Nikki
Gooderham. The role of the FLW is to support parents; this will include sign-posting services that
are available. The FLW’s will hold activities and events that parents will be invited to. This is a
developing role, further information will be sent home throughout the year.
REDWELL HELPING HANDS (RHH)
The RHH are a group of parents who support the work of the school in very positive ways. They
are always on hand to help out at major school events and to raise vital funds to support
projects. Through the hard work of the RHH your children are provided with valuable
equipment, resources and books. New parents are always needed and a letter will be sent to you
seeking your support.
PARENT COUNCIL
We have a parent council which is made up of a parent representative from each class,
Governors and members of the RHH. We meet once a term to discuss school issues and share
ideas. This is a really useful way for us to canvass for parent opinions and build relationships.
13
CLASSROOM ORGANISATION
Classes at Redwell are organised on a 3 parallel classes per year group basis. Within classes,
teachers organise their work according to the needs of the children in their care. Sometimes, it
may mean that children are grouped according to their ability in a certain subject or according
to their level of experience or maturity. Classrooms are complex places where teachers strive to
achieve the right balance for their pupils. As well as intellectual needs, there are emotional,
social, aesthetic and physical needs to consider for each child. Sometimes lessons are taught or
issues discussed as a class; sometimes children learn better in smaller groups. Children also
need to experience the self discipline and satisfaction gained from doing a piece of work entirely
on their own; as they grow older we will expect them to become more independent in this
respect. Teaching is organised according to the nature of the activities and the needs and
abilities of the children. We want children to be successful in what they attempt to achieve; we
believe that success breeds success.
HOME LEARNING
Successful learning is based on a partnership between home and school. Children spend only
13% of their year at school. It is therefore important that we have a good home school
partnership, to enable children to practise and develop their skills. During their time at Redwell,
children will be bringing tasks home from school. This may include reading and related tasks,
spelling, consolidating numeracy concepts and research. Time spent on home learning tasks will
vary according to the child's age and should be discussed with class teachers.
GIFTED AND TALENTED CHILDREN
All children have access to a broad, balanced, relevant and differentiated curriculum, through
which all children are encouraged to have the highest expectations. There are many definitions
of a 'gifted' or ‘talented’ child which are valid and none of which is exclusive. We endeavour to
identify such children and to give them help to achieve their goals. School work is differentiated
to match and stretch each child, helping them achieve their full potential.
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
We recognise the mutual benefits that result from the integration of children with special
needs. The school aims to be, not only stimulating and enjoyable but also, an accepting and
caring community within which all children can achieve self esteem through purposeful
involvement. The school has a duty to meet the individual needs of all pupils, including those
who have special educational needs (SEN). The class teacher, in consultation with the Inclusion
Manager (IM), will identify such children and parents will be involved in discussion and in any
decisions about specific action that may need to be taken. The Local Authority is ultimately
responsible for the assessment and statementing of all children with SEN, in line with the Code
of Practice.
Full co-operation exists between the school, health service, social services,
education psychology service, hospital outreach, speech and occupational therapy services, and
other external agencies.
CHILD PROTECTION
The school follows procedure as detailed in 'Agency Procedures' published by Northamptonshire
Child Protection Committee and has in place a Child Protection Policy which is reviewed
annually. The school has appointed Designated Teachers for Child Protection and a Designated
Teacher for Looked After Children.
14
THE CURRICULUM
The Curriculum
The curriculum of the school is designed to provide equal opportunities for all.
We also consider our curriculum to be part of a child's life long journey in education. We
acknowledge and build upon learning which has taken place before children enter our school
and we lay the foundations which we hope will enable all our children to make the best
possible use of the educational opportunities they are offered after they have left our school.
The Foundation Stage
In Reception classes, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage. Learning is organised in
these areas:

Communication and Language

Physical development

Personal, social and emotional development

Literacy

Mathematics

Understanding the World

Expressive Arts & Design
Learning is through play and through direct teaching of foundation skills. In all areas of the
curriculum, children work on carefully planned activities to meet their needs. The staff spend
time observing the children to gain evidence of their development and to inform future
planning. Provision for children in the Foundation Stage (Reception Year) is good because
members of staff work together exceptionally well as a team, enabling children of differing
abilities to do very well in all areas of learning. By the time children start Year 1, most are
working well beyond the levels expected for their age. Children particularly enjoy the exciting
activities planned around a shared theme.
The National Curriculum
In KS1 and KS2, we teach the core subjects:




English, Mathematics, and Science
Information Communication Technology

Art and Design
Design Technology

Physical Education
Geography

History
Music

Religious Education
ASSESSMENT
Children are regularly and systematically assessed as they learn by all teachers in this school.
Teachers need information about how children have responded to the learning opportunities
which have been provided, so that they know what to teach next. This is called "teacher
assessment", and we build it into our schemes of work and our topic plans. Teachers assess
pupil progress every half term in Maths, Reading & Writing. Termly teachers also assess Science
as well as Speaking & Listening.
At the end of Key Stage 1, we report assessment levels in reading, writing, Speaking & Listening,
Maths and Science, for each child in Year 2. The summary of your child’s achievements will be
reported to you in the July before he or she leaves our school.
At the end of KS2, we report SAT results in English, Maths as well as teacher assessment levels in
Science.
15
SPEAKING AND LISTENING
We aim to encourage children to express themselves and to communicate fluently and
articulately, with clarity and purpose, in an interesting and varied manner. Similarly, they are
encouraged to listen and to appreciate other speakers with all their variations of tone,
vocabulary, dialect and content.
ENGLISH
Activities will build upon the oral language and experiences, which pupils bring from home.
We aim to give the children the skills to read for both pleasure and information and to give
them study skills in the use of reference books. Teaching will cover a range of stimulating
literature, both fiction and non-fiction, and should ensure that pupils regularly hear and share
stories and poetry.
Success in reading is achieved through partnership between home and school. Therefore, we
encourage children to take home books and an individual reading record booklet, which we
ask you to sign when you hear them read. Positive parental comments in this booklet will be
much appreciated. We ask that parents accept the responsibility for the care and return of all
books. Book bags are available for purchase from the school office.
We offer a huge variety of books for your children to read, including those from high quality
reading schemes and a variety of ‘real books’. We ask parents to share in the teaching of
reading both at home and in school. For Years 1 and 2, we have Book Time sessions running
on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings 8:50-9:10am and we warmly invite you to
spend these sessions reading with your child. A workshop will be offered to you before we
introduce these sessions so that you can come along and find out how they work. Phonics is
taught daily in EYFS and KS1, and children are taught in differentiated groups, to allow us to
meet their needs successfully. There may be a weekly spelling list. Our English teaching is
based on the National Curriculum. We teach different genres of writing including poetry, non
fiction and narrative writing and we endeavour to have interesting, dynamic learning
experiences to suit all learning styles on offer to excite and enthuse our children about
English.
MATHEMATICS
Redwell recognises mathematics as a worthwhile activity that is enjoyable in its own right. As
a staff, we regard the nature of mathematics as being confident with numbers and having a
natural inclination to explore patterns and relationships, to take creative risks and experiment
with new ideas. We believe that mathematics should provide a rich variety of learning
experiences that reflect the notion of discovery. In order that children grow up appreciating
the relevance of mathematics, we feel it is important to explain why and when mathematics is
used in everyday life. We aim to provide activities that give pupils the opportunity to explore,
discuss and reflect upon mathematics in an enjoyable, enthusiastic and supportive
environment.
It is our philosophy that mathematics is more than supplying processes, rules and formulae.
We aspire to the understanding that mathematics is concerned with teaching how to think,
and engendering a positive attitude towards the subject. Furthermore, with greater
emphasis placed on the need for pupils to work things out in a variety of situations, we feel it
is important to furnish children with a range of mental strategies.
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SCIENCE
Science plays an important part in all aspects of life today. As a school, we feel that good
scientific knowledge and understanding will prepare our children for adulthood. Science can
further children’s natural curiosity and give them ways of working and thinking to explore the
world in which we live. In accordance with the school policy on teaching and learning, staff aim
to teach science in ways which make it relevant and meaningful, drawing whenever possible on
examples taken from the real world.
GEOGRAPHY
Enquiry will form an important part of our work and involve direct practical experiences within
the local area. We aim to develop the children’s knowledge of places and environments
throughout the world; an understanding of maps and their range of investigative and problem
solving skills both inside and outside the classroom. Field visits, are arranged to enhance
geographical study.
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY
We aim to give children the skills to identify the opportunities and need for design and
technology activities, investigate these and where appropriate generate design proposals and
make artefacts, evaluating the finished product. Pupils will be given opportunities to work with
a range of materials, including food and fabric.
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
We aim to produce learners who are confident and effective users of ICT, communicating and
handling information across the whole range of the curriculum. This will include the use of
computers and cameras to store, retrieve and sort information. The school is well equipped
with computer equipment. All classrooms are equipped with a projector, interactive whiteboard
and visualiser. We also have pupil laptops, DSI’s and i-pads for use by the children. Please visit
our website at: www.redwellschools.info
HISTORY
When teaching history, we aim to fire the children’s imagination about the past in Britain and
the wider world. Stressing the importance of how the past influences the present, we teach
children about past societies, developing their sense of chronology and understanding of
significant events and people. During historical study, children are encouraged to find evidence,
evaluate it and draw their own conclusions. History gives children an opportunity to research.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND COLLECTIVE WORSHIP
There is a daily act of collective worship, usually through assemblies. Everyday the whole school
gather for an assembly. This is separate to the teaching of Religious Education which follows the
County’s Agreed Syllabus and covers a wide range of world religions. We encourage the
children to have mutual respect and tolerance for other people’s values and beliefs.
Opportunities for visits to places of worship are provided and we have visitors to lead worship
in school from time to time. Parents may request that their child be withdrawn from all or part
of the Religious Education or collective worship provided.
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THE ARTS/CREATIVE dance, drama, music, art
We aim to give the children the skills and opportunities to express themselves in a variety of
media and forms. Through this we hope they may develop aesthetic awareness and
appreciation and satisfy their creative instincts and needs. The children are given the
opportunity to participate in singing and music making and learn to appreciate a range of
forms and styles of music. We aim for music making to be fun and enjoyable, both through
actively taking part and enjoying the performances of others.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
We value the importance of regular physical exercise to promote the health and physical
well-being of every child. All children receive regular PE lessons teaching games skills,
gymnastics, dance and athletics. After school PE clubs are offered and are led by school staff
and professionals from local sports clubs. Redwell School is part of the Wellingborough
Schools Sports Partnership which organises tournaments and competitions for a variety of
sports.
PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION
The school covers aspects of personal, social and health education as integral parts of other
areas of the curriculum. The Healthy Schools Award demonstrates recognition of the work
done by the school in this field. Pastoral care is embodied within the school ethos and all staff
are responsible for monitoring the care of the pupils in their class. Circle Time takes place
regularly in every class and we use the SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning)
materials across the school. There is, however, a conscious effort to ensure that the following
aspects are covered within the curriculum:
Citizenship: Is the fundamental belief that at the centre of any educational training is the
need to prepare students for the future. To be able to cope with a rapidly changing society
and to offer sustained fulfilment in their lives, all children are taught to form good attitudes,
disciplines, relationships, responsibilities and standards; thus to become good positive citizens
making a valued contribution to the quality of life within society.
Care for the Environment: Children are encouraged to respect and care for their environment.
This is fundamental to the school ethos and the quality of life which all who work and live
within the community are striving to achieve. We actively encourage recycling of a variety of
materials.
Sex and Relationships Education: The Governing Body has decided that sex and relationships
education shall be integrated into the curriculum, not isolated, taken out of context or over
emphasised. At this age this is usually covered during our PSHCE curriculum.
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Health and Safety Education: We aim to give the children an awareness of the need to care
for their own bodies through good personal habits. We aim to teach them knowledge and
skills of safety education in the home, at play and on roads, as well as in school.
Drug Education: At Redwell Primary School we have recognised our responsibility to
respond to substance misuse and we aim to work in partnership with health and social
services, the Police, Solve-It and other agencies. Further details of our programme can
be found in our drug education policy. At this age we usually cover this area of education
through our PSHCE curriculum.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The staff believe that children should be encouraged to develop interests and hobbies. The
range of activities on offer varies from year to year depending upon the availability of
coaches and teacher commitments but may include: Multi-skills, Football, Spanish, Music,
Gardening, TaeKwon Do, Mad Science, Choir and Art.
Each term, clubs will be offered. As there are always more children wanting to participate
in these activities than there are vacancies, it is expected that they commit themselves to
the particular activity. We expect that they will attend at the required time and make
arrangements for fulfilling any of the requirements in the interim between one week and
the next. Staff reserve the right to ask a child to leave the group if they feel that it is not an
appropriate activity or if behaviour falls below the standard we expect. In the event of
circumstances beyond our control resulting in the cancellation of any activities, every effort
will be made to give parents a minimum of 24 hours notice, using the ‘school/parent’ text
service.
In KS2, the Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust (NMPAT) offer the
opportunity to children to learn a musical instrument, there is a charge for this service.
EDUCATIONAL VISITS
The Governors of the school have decided that all activities which could be described as
"optional" (e.g. educational visits) must be covered by voluntary donations or they cannot
take place.
The new arrangements place schools in a difficult position. As the law stands, children
cannot be excluded from such visits if their parents do not wish to pay (but do wish their
children to participate). Parents will appreciate that educational visits etc. have to be
planned in advance and that schools need to have the financial capacity to cover their
costs. Parents can be asked for "voluntary donations" towards the cost. Although, legally,
no limit is placed on the amount parents contribute, the procedure we have adopted seeks
to share the cost of such optional extras amongst children who will participate. Put simply,
parents are notified of the visit, cost etc., and are asked to send back a reply slip indicating
whether they are prepared to make a voluntary donation of the stated amount. Once we
have this information, the visit will (or will not) proceed, depending upon whether the
combined contributions cover the cost.
Coaches and minibuses used by the school are always fitted with seatbelts and full risk
assessments are completed before any visit takes place.
We hope that parents will continue to be supportive of educational visits. We believe that
they enhance your children's education.
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INSURANCE - PERSONAL ACCIDENT
Parents should be aware that there is no universal personal accident cover for school
children. Parents may wish to avail themselves of personal accident cover for their
children. They should make enquiries to insurance brokers or companies accordingly.
Key findings from Ofsted February 2014
This is an Outstanding School!

Pupils’ attainment is consistently well above average in reading, writing and
mathematics. They make excellent progress during their time in the school because
teaching is outstanding.

Teachers have high expectations for what pupils can achieve and plan work carefully
so that it is just at the right level to take pupils forward in their learning.

Children in Reception make good progress and are well prepared for Key Stage 1.
Planning is sometimes overcomplicated, however, and does not always ensure
indoor and outdoor activities build upon each other to develop children’s skills to
the full.

The teaching of reading has a high priority in the school and is well supported by
parents and grandparents. Attainment is high as a result.

Behaviour in lessons and around school is outstanding. Pupils feel cared for and
safe.

This school gives great emphasis to developing pupils’ sense of values, and qualities
such as happiness and kindness are promoted constantly and highly effectively.
Pupils’ attitudes to each other, to adults and to their learning are consequently
exemplary.

Leadership and management are outstanding. The experienced and inspirational
Head Teacher has created an extremely effective staff team. Frequent checks are
made to ensure teaching and pupils’ progress are maintained at a high level.

Governors are keen to help the school to improve and have much expertise to offer.
Their regular visits mean that they know how well the staff and pupils are
performing.
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REDWELL PRIMARY SCHOOL
Barnwell Road
Wellingborough
Northants
NN8 5LQ
01933 676040
[email protected]
O
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Friendship
Happiness
Patience
Respect
Responsibility
Kindness
Ambition
Independence
Self-belief
Honesty
Bravery
Love
O
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V
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is the beginning.
Keeping together
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— Henry Ford
" hether you think
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think you can't-you're right."
— Henry Ford
Love