Necton V - Toftwood Junior School

Contact Details
If you want to get in touch, you can do so by telephone or email.
Telephone: (01362) 694919
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.toftwood-jun.co.uk/
38 Westfield Road
Toftwood
Dereham
Norfolk
NR19 1JB
Section 1 – About Our School
Toftwood Community Junior School is a local authority school for pupils aged 7 – 11 (Year
3 to Year 6). It is situated in Toftwood, a residential area on the outskirts of Dereham.
Opened in 1976 as a middle school and benefiting from some of the extra facilities that
middle schools provided, it changed to a Junior School in September 2000. Most of our
pupils live in Toftwood itself and have attended Toftwood Infant School but some come
from other local infant schools. Some children travel some distance to attend our school for
example; from Gressenhall or Shipdham. Toftwood Junior School ensures that admission
procedures do not discriminate against those pupils with disabilities. All areas of the
school building have disabled access and the grounds are accessible to wheelchair users.
The majority of our pupils transfer at the end of Year 6 to either Neatherd or Northgate, the
two high schools in Dereham.
Toftwood Junior School is one of the larger junior schools in Norfolk with 355 pupils on
roll. At present, the school is organized into 12 classes: 3 classes in each year group.
Teachers in each year group work very closely together with the guidance of the Senior
Leadership Team. The class bases are large and provide an attractive and inviting learning
environment, with modern furniture, colourful displays and interactive whiteboards. The
school is well resourced with a library, 3 smaller group rooms, two halls, and a hive with
facilities for cooking. The school has an extensive range of ICT equipment; two full class
suites of Netbooks, approximately 35 Ipads and desktop computers in each classroom.
The extra teaching room
and two large halls
provide
excellent
opportunities for drama
and a range of PE
activities.
Parents are invited to
various assemblies and
productions. The school
is an active member of
the West Norwich and
Dereham
Sports
Partnership and pupils
regularly compete in
cluster events.
Outside, the school has a large playground, (resurfaced in the summer of 2012), a multi
activity play area, a quiet area, a games field with 6 small pitches and surrounding grass PE
areas.
March 2012 saw the official opening of the new
Year 6 block. After years of campaigning some
rapid construction replaced antiquated mobiles
and now provides excellent modern
accommodation.
We have an active School Council which is
democratically elected by the children. It
comprises of an Executive Committee and also
class representatives. Their meetings and work
is co-ordinated by Miss Smith and their impact
is considerable. Each year they make numerous
suggestions and implement a range of ideas/
activities that enhance the life of the school.
On entry to the school, children are placed in a 'House' team which provides the school with
vertically-grouped teams:
Blickling - Blue Raynham – Red Felbrigg - Green Holkham – Yellow
Throughout the year, various house competitions are organized. Brothers and sisters
are placed in the same 'house'.
We are proud of our children, their friendliness, their caring natures, good behaviour and
positive attitudes to all learning. This was recognized in the most recent Ofsted Inspection
(July 2015);
“Pupils behave well and have very good attitudes to learning. They say they feel safe and
are well looked-after.”
The report goes on to say;
“Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is strong. They are well
prepared for life in modern Britain.”
“The new curriculum is well planned, and is enriched with a wide range of interesting
activities, visits and visitors.”
The school has received many awards including the Quality Mark for PE with distinction, a
Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum Healthy Norfolk Schools Awards, Sainsbury’s School
Games Gold Award , an International School Award for introducing internationalism and a
‘Reading Connects School’ for building a whole-school reading community.
All the staff and Governors are proud of the school, the education, ethos and individual
support for pupils it provides and the range of extra-curricular activities on offer.
Section 2 – Our Vision
Our vision is summed up in our mission - ‘Every child, every adult, without exception,
reaching their potential; academically, socially and spiritually’.
We achieve this by enshrining our aims as key drivers in all our work:
We believe that to achieve the highest standards of achievement and attainment, there are 6
key drivers that lie behind our teaching and learning, curriculum design and school
organization. These key drivers reflect our ethos, character and local need.
.
Key Driver 1: Raising the aspirations of every child regardless of gender, ethnic, religious or socioeconomic status.
Key Driver 2: To develop children and adults with confidence and high self-esteem, through emotional
and cognitive awareness, and expressed with proficient communication skills.
Key Driver 3: Strategies which promote enquiry and the development of independent learners.
Key Driver 4: High quality learning enhanced and supported through parental engagement.
Key Driver 5: Creative planning and delivery of statutory requirements.
Key Driver 6: A personalised approach to learning tailored to the skills, aptitudes and talents of children
in both the science and arts.
Section 3 Admission Arrangements and Transfer
We want our pupils to be happy in school and every effort is made to ease the transfer
process. During the last year at their infant school, we arrange several visits and activity
sessions so that the children feel at ease when they join us in September. In the summer
term, all Year 2 pupils are invited to spend time in the Junior School, to become familiar
with the building, the cafeteria and playtime arrangements and, most important of all, to get
to know their new teacher.
Parents have the opportunity to look around the school at a parents’ evening during the
autumn term and again in July when they will be able to meet their child’s teacher for
September. Our Year 3 teachers also visit the Infant Schools, observe the pupils at work
and talk to their teachers so as to ensure as much continuity as possible in the children's
education.
Similar liaison takes place between the final year at Junior School and the High Schools.
All schools in the Dereham area work closely together as a cluster and there are regular
liaison meetings to share good practice. There is increasing collaboration with both
Toftwood Infant and Fred Nicholson Schools to the benefit of all children.
Details of the admission process:
• The transfer to junior school admission round for September 2016 is for children in their
last year at infant school (aged 7+ on 1 September 2015).These pupils are deemed “due to
transfer” which is a term used in admissions rules.
How do I apply?
1
You can apply online during the three transfer rounds at;
www.admissionsonline.norfolk.gov.uk
Full details can be found in ‘A parents' guide to admissions to schools in Norfolk’
Obtainable at; http://www.norfolk.gov.uk/view/NCC094647
Key dates in the admission process:
 9 November 2015
Admission round opens
Information about the transfer to junior round is released; letters and application forms will
be distributed to all children in infant schools due to transfer to junior schools.
 15 January 2016
Closing date
All applications must be received by Norfolk County Council by this date
 4 April 2016
Coordination scheme applied
No changes can be made to applications after this date
 18 April 2016
National Offer Day
Norfolk County Council will send you a letter by 1st class post telling you at which school
your child has been offered a place
Or
By 5pm on 18 April 2016
If you have applied online you will receive an email telling
you at which school your child has been offered a place. You will also be able to access
your account on the website at www.admissionsonline.norfolk.gov.uk
 3 May 2016
This is the last day for accepting the place that you have been offered, or for telling us you
want to appeal.
 16 May 2016 Mini admission round
All changes requested since 16 January are considered on this date.
 June/July 2016 Appeal hearings take place
 31 December 2016 All waiting lists held by Norfolk County Council end on this day
Admissions Policy
Toftwood Junior School is a community school.
Norfolk County Council is the admissions Authority for deciding who attends Toftwood
Community Junior School.
In the event of oversubscription these rules apply for pupils transferring into year 3 from
their last year at an Infant or First school.
If there are more applications for places than there are places available, Norfolk County
Council will give preference to children living nearest to the school, according to the
following rules in this order of priority:
1. children with a statement of special educational needs naming that school
2. children in public care who are due to transfer
3. children who are due to transfer, living in the area served by the school who have a
brother or sister attending the school at the time of their admission
4. children who are due to transfer, living in the area served by the school who have no
brother or sister connection with the school
5. children who are due to start school who have been allocated a permanent place at a
Specialist Resource Base attached to the school. (Places allocated by Norfolk County
Council’s Placement panel).
6. children who are due to transfer, living outside the area served by the school who
have a brother or sister attending the school at the time of their admission
7. children who are due to transfer, living outside the area served by the school and
attend a feeder school at the opening date of the admission round.
8. children who are due to transfer, living outside the area served by the school who
have no brother or sister or feeder school connection with the school.
9. children attending primary schools with a brother or sister at the junior school
10.children attending primary schools with no brother or sister at the junior school.
If all children within any of the above rules cannot be offered a place, the highest priority
will be given to children living nearest to the school within that rule.
To determine who lives nearest, distance will be measured on a straight line “crow fly”
basis, using Ordnance Survey data.
The address will be measured from the post office address point on the property.
In the unlikely event that distance does not separate the final two or more pupils seeking
the last remaining place, a random allocation will be used to determine who is offered the
final place.
Important Note
The address given on the application form will be used to decide the catchment school.
Adjoining junior school - this only applies when the two schools share the same site.
Children in their last year (Year 2) at an Infant or First School will be considered due
to transfer.
NOTE: Criteria 6 only applies to schools which have a Specialist Resource Base on
Site
For frequently asked questions about the admission process please see Appendix 1
Section 4 – The School Day
8:50
The school day begins. Children are supervised on the playground from 8:40 and
can come into school from 8:45 to get ready for the day.
Parents are welcome to accompany their children to the playground and watch their early
morning play / or have a conversation with friends old and new. If you observe another
child behaving inappropriately please discreetly draw the attention of the member of staff
to the issue.
Registration officially closes at 9:20 but please ensure your child is at school on time as
lessons start promptly at 9:00.
Times vary according to subject and year group but a typical day might be:
School Pedestrian Gates unlocked
Doors open
Registration and Early Work
Guided Reading
Assembly
Session 1
Mid- Morning Break
Session 2
Lunch
Session 3
Session 4
Years 3 and 4
08.20
08.45
08.50
09.00
09.30
09.50 – 10.45
10.45 – 11.00
11.00 – 12.15
12.15 – 13.15
13.15 – 14.15
14.25 – 15.25
Years 5 and 6
08.20
08.45
08.50
09.00
09.30
09.50 – 10.55
10.55 – 11.10
11.10 – 12.30
12.30 – 13.30
13.30 – 14.30
14.30 – 15.25
Mid- Morning Break Our kitchen sells a selection of healthy morning snacks including
fruit, raw vegetables and milk. The School Council designed / requested the healthy menu
served by the kitchen as part of our Enhanced Healthy School status. Children may also
bring fruit from home. (Sweets are not allowed in school).
9.30 Assembly, including collective worship. This
is regarded as an important part of the school day
when the whole school gathers together. The school
is non-denominational but collective worship, while
including reference to other faiths, broadly reflects
Christian values and includes time for reflection or
prayer. Parents, who wish to withdraw their child
from the collective worship part of the assembly,
are invited to discuss the matter with the
Headteacher.
Lunch Most children remain at school and either have a
cooked meal or bring a packed lunch.
 Hot lunches are cooked on site and a choice of two
menus is available which both conform to Norfolk’s
Nutritional Standards. A menu is given to the
children termly and children sign up for lunch daily.
At present, a hot meal costs £2.10. (For enquiries
about qualification for free school meals, please
contact the school secretary.)
 Children may, however, bring their own packed
lunch and drink in a suitable, named container. We
request, for health and safety reasons that fizzy
drinks or glass bottles are not brought to school.
 Very few children go home to lunch but if you
would like your child to go home, please inform the
school office. Pupils who go home should not return
before 13.15 (Years 3 & 4) or 13.30 (Years 5 & 6).
School closes at 3:25. Parents collect their children from the playground. Please do not
stand on the paved area outside the year 3 classrooms as this obscures the children’s view
of parents waiting on the playground.
Section 5 - The Curriculum –
Learning is the main focus of school. We want every child to achieve their
full potential, develop skills and understanding and most important of all,
enjoy learning and gain a thirst for knowledge.
We believe that to achieve the highest standards of achievement and
attainment, there are 6 key drivers that lie behind our curriculum design and
style of teaching and learning. These key drivers reflect our ethos, character and local need.
.
Key Driver 1: Raising the aspirations of varying socio economic groups
Key Driver 2: Raising the confidence and self esteem of every individual through emotional and cognitive
awareness
Key Driver 3: Strategies which promote enquiry and the development of independent learners
Key Driver 4: High quality learning enhanced and supported through parental engagement.
Key Driver 5: Creative planning and delivery of statutory requirements
Key Driver 6: A personalised approach to learning tailored to the skills, aptitudes and talents of children
in both the science and arts.
In line with current national agendas and OFSTED guidance, basic skills of English and
Maths are emphasized and reinforced during topic teaching which is a themed approach to
learning where subjects are combined, so children can develop a broad and deep
understanding of how areas relate to each other. It aims to build an in depth knowledge of the
topic covered, utilizing and developing a range of skills both within school and out on school
visits. Teaching methods encourage children to think and participate fully in lessons. ICT is
used extensively to enrich the learning experience and themed days or visitors to school
substantially add to this new curriculum.
Where there is not a natural link, some subjects or areas within subjects continue to be
taught discretely. At present, numeracy and literacy are taught separately though links are
made with year group themes as appropriate and all opportunities are taken to apply pupils’
skills and knowledge to real-life contexts.
English
Communication, both verbal and written,
remains an essential skill for the future. All
classes have a highly structured daily
Literacy lesson focusing on developing
speaking and listening, reading and writing.
Children have the opportunity to work
independently, in pairs and in groups. To
give greater focus, where appropriate,
Literacy topics are aligned to the year group
theme.
A bright and spacious library creates an
inviting reading environment. All classes
visit the library at least once a week and
children are encouraged to borrow books,
both fiction and non-fiction, to read at home.
The reading scheme consists of a variety of
engaging fiction and non-fiction books using
numerous publishers. This enables children to
have an opportunity to meet their reading
potential whilst also reading for enjoyment.
We teach a range of reading strategies and all
pupils are expected to practise these by reading regularly to an adult. To further enrich the
curriculum we receive several visits during the course of the year from theatre groups,
story-tellers and authors, who inspire the children.
A reading café is run by staff to motivate and
engage children with reading. Parents (or
grandparents) of children in year 3 are invited
to attend with their child to take part in
practical activities which have raised the level
of enjoyment in reading.
Mathematics
All pupils have a daily Numeracy lesson and
children are taught in targeted ability groups within the whole class. All basic skills,
including tables, the four rules of number and mental arithmetic are taught thoroughly and
practised regularly so children can become proficient at handling number.
There are many cross-curricular links and we encourage the application of Mathematics in a
wide variety of problem-solving investigations so children realise that it is an essential part
of everyday life.
Children are taught how to use calculators effectively, as a mathematical tool and not as a
replacement for basic skills. Each child's progress and level of understanding is assessed
and closely monitored.
Science
Science forms a large part of our
broader learning through topics.
Through a practical approach, we
aim
to
develop
children’s
investigative skills and encourage
them to develop a questioning and
enquiring attitude as they gain a
deeper understanding of the world
around them.
Computing
The use of ICT is a core skill and its
use is modelled by all staff.
ICT is the future. Children are given frequent opportunity in all areas to develop and refine
their ICT skills.
We have a range of mobile devices,
(netbooks and Ipads) which enable
each child to work independently.
All computers are networked and
have access to the internet. Spring
2015 saw the installation of a new
ICT infrastructure capable of
supporting
400
+
devices
simultaneously accessing
the
internet through wi-fi or cables.
The long term aim is for every
child to have access to their own
device.
Interactive whiteboards and data projectors or digital display screen are installed in every
classroom. They give the opportunity to explore a wide range of resources to stimulate
pupils’ interest, develop their understanding and encourage pupil participation. A range of
other equipment extends ICT to all areas.
To ensure that the children are safe using the Internet we have a Safe Use policy which is
distributed to parents and requires children’s’ agreement and compliance to ensure
complete safety.
Design Technology
Design Technology, again linked to
yearly topics, enables children to develop
their creative and practical skills using
a wide range of materials and
equipment. Pupils learn about the
various properties of different materials
and experience the challenge of bringing together craft tools and resources in a safe
environment.
History
In each year group, history provides one of the topic themes. Through different
approaches, children gain deeper insight into people and events in the past. Lessons focus
on acquiring skills as well as knowledge. Each year group includes at least one enrichment
day of ‘Living History’, when pupils experience life from the era being studied; these days
are very much enjoyed by the pupils and bring the topic alive.
Geography
Geography also provides one of
the topic themes. Through a
very
practical
and
fun
approach,
pupils
develop
geographical skills and gain
knowledge of their own
locality and how it is changing,
as well as places and
environments throughout the
world.
As they develop
understanding of the issues
facing the world, we hope that
it will inspire them to think
about their own role in the world and their rights and responsibilities to other people and
the environment.
Religious Education
Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Norfolk Agreed Syllabus. A copy
may be viewed at the school on request. Lessons reflect the broadly Christian nature of
this country and include acquiring knowledge and developing an understanding of other
world religions.
The school is well resourced with artefacts, photographs, videos and books relevant to the
religions studied. Religious Education develops the ability to consider and reflect on
religious and moral issues in order to make informed choices in the context of a
growing knowledge of the teachings of the principal religions represented in
Great Britain. It also helps children develop a positive attitude towards other
people, respecting their right to hold beliefs different from their own and towards
living in a society of diverse religions. Parents have a legal right to withdraw their child
from RE; any parent who wishes to do so is invited to discuss the matter with the
headteacher.
Music
Music teaching aims to develop an understanding
and enjoyment of music through activities which
involve four basic elements: performing,
composing, listening and appreciation. The school
has an excellent selection of instruments including
those from other cultures.
Physical Education
Our programme makes a strong contribution to physical and personal development. All
groups are mixed ability and mixed gender and like all subjects in the National Curriculum,
PE is compulsory.
The National Curriculum provides a clear framework for PE, based on developing a
positive attitude, acquiring skills, evaluating performance and gaining an understanding of
fitness, health and safe practice. Pupils experience six areas of activity every year:
 Gymnastic Activities: - Children work individually, in pairs or groups, using both the
floor and apparatus. They respond to tasks by exploring, selecting, practising and
refining movements. They also develop sequences and are taught how to perform
controlled, flowing movements. Pupils learn how to evaluate their own performance.
 Games: - Pupils develop an understanding of the principles involved in games activities.
They work towards improving hand, foot, bat, racquet and stick skills, techniques and
tactics. Children will also make up their own games as well as playing versions of
recognised games e.g. football, rugby, hockey, cricket, netball, tennis and rounders.
 Dance:- Allows the children to express their feelings and imagination using the whole
body. Control and co-ordination is fully developed.
 Athletic Activities: - Includes Cross Country in the
winter and running, hurdling, throwing and jumping
in the summer. Our athletics summer season
includes House Sports Day.
 Outdoor and Adventurous Education: Techniques and skills include orienteering, lifesaving, problem solving and decision making.
 Swimming:- Children in Year 3 visit Dereham
Leisure Centre swimming pool and enjoy a term of
swimming each year; transport by coach is provided free
of charge by the school.
A wide range of extra-curricular activities enable
those children with an interest in a particular sport
to pursue it further and teams often enter interschool competitions at both a local and county
level.
Primary Languages (PL)
Spanish is taught to pupils in Year 3 and Year 4 and French in
Year 5 and
Year 6.
Pupils enjoy learning basic phrases and vocabulary, engaging in role play (in the language
of course!) and developing an understanding of the culture. Two of our teachers are highly
qualified modern foreign language teachers and several teachers have experience of
teaching abroad.
Art
Children are taught and encouraged to develop not only practical skills but also knowledge
of artists and their work. Activities are designed to encourage observation skills and
creativity in pupils. Lessons include drawing, still life, painting, printing, sculpture, pattern
making, mask making, weaving, model making and increasingly, the creative use of ICT.
Work in ceramics encourages the creative use of clay and an understanding of skills and
techniques such as slab work, coil pots and relief work. Colourful and imaginative
examples of children’s art work can be viewed on display around the school.
Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE)
Personal, social and health education (PSHE) helps
to give pupils the knowledge, skills and
understanding they need to lead confident, healthy
and independent lives as responsible individuals and
members of society. It aims to help them understand
how they are developing personally and socially,
tackling many of the moral, social and cultural
issues that are part of growing up.
It offers learning opportunities across and beyond the curriculum, in specific lessons as well
as in assemblies, circle time, special school projects and other activities that enrich pupils'
experiences. The subject is divided into the four areas (outlined below) and taught in a
variety of ways across the school.
• Developing confidence and responsibility and making the most of their abilities
• Preparing to play an active role as citizens
• Developing a healthy, safer lifestyle
• Developing good relationships and respecting the differences between people
PATHS
Since 2011, PSHE has also been promoted through use of the PATHS programme.
(Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies) This has been very successful in extending the
pastoral strength of the school and equipping the children with skills to enhance their health
and well-being. It complements the SEAL programme (Social and Emotional Aspects of
Learning) which is used selectively in conjunction with ‘Go-Givers’ activities to promote
self-awareness, managing feelings, motivation, health, empathy and social skills.
Multi-Cultural Education
We welcome opportunities to promote a
multicultural view of the world and an
understanding of diverse cultures and
religions. We are paired with a school in
Malawi and are pursuing links with other
European Schools. We aim to equip our
children with the skills to live harmoniously
in a multi-cultural society with a diversity of
people and faiths. We endeavour to enable
our children to stand against racism and
prejudice. We hold an annual Multi-Cultural
Day and are in the process of developing links
with communities, both nationally and globally.
The school has a Race Equality Policy stating that ‘Toftwood Junior School has a policy
of zero tolerance to any form of racism, prejudice or discrimination’.
Sex and Relationships Education (SRE)
SRE is currently delivered through both the Science and PSHE curriculum. It is placed in a
family context and encourages children to have a regard for moral considerations and the
value of family life. Great care is taken to match the teaching to the maturity of the child
and parents are invited to preview the materials used. The Governor's Policy on Sex
Education is available in school.
Parents have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of the sex and
relationships education provided by the school except for those parts included in the
statutory National Curriculum. The school will make alternative arrangements in such
cases. If parents wish to view the Sex and Relationships Education and Drug Education
policies, copies are available in school.
(SRE is not part of the statutory curriculum from September 2014)
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Toftwood Junior School is committed to ‘inclusion’ and the academic and personal
development for all pupils with learning, physical, social and emotional needs. In addition
to quality first teach, a dedicated team of Education Support Staff provides regular support
in all areas of the curriculum and especially Literacy and Numeracy. Children are
supported individually or in small groups, depending on their needs, either within the main
class setting or they are withdrawn for a specific activity. A range of intervention
programmes encourage pupils to develop targeted skills. This is coordinated by the SEND
Co and parents informed by letter of their child’s specific targets and the support being
given. Progress against specific targets is tracked and assessed regularly. The school works
closely with the Cluster SENDCO and External Agencies to access specialist advice for
children with learning, behavioural and sensory needs. The support which the school can
provide is described in detail on our website: http://www.toftwoodjun.norfolk.sch.uk/page/?title=Toftwood%27s+SEND+offer&pid=228
Homework
We believe that homework develops independent work
habits; a skill needed for life. There is an increasing
emphasis upon independently generated homework. It
also enables children to practise and become more
proficient at skills already learned in class and gives
opportunities for pupils to research and prepare for
future lessons. Homework Diaries and Reading
Record Books are issued to help children organise
their time and help parents be informed and involved
in pupils’ learning. We ask that parents read daily with
their child and help them with learning spellings, number
bonds and times-tables.
The amount of homework
increases as children move through the school but time spent
on
it should not be so excessive as to exclude their involvement in hobbies, clubs and personal
interests. These, along with time to relax and reflect, are just as essential to a child’s
growth. The areas of work covered each term will be identified in our curriculum outlines
which are sent home at the beginning of each term. We encourage parents to engage with
their child about what they are learning in school and involve them in additional research
which will help consolidate their knowledge and understanding. Some groups of children
are asked to work on self-selected targets in addition to those set by their class teachers.
Working with parents
We try to work ever more closely with parents. The school website provides details of
school procedures and practices as well as a store of previous correspondence. It is also the
home of the school calendar so you can see what’s going on. The growing gallery will
provide a visual record and representation of daily life.
Classes have frequent open sessions and maths afternoons have become very popular,
informative and effective in raising aspiration and focus on maths skills.
Visits
A variety of day trips and visitors, including a number of theatre groups, are organised each
year for all pupils. Currently, Years 5 and 6 also have the opportunity to take part in a
residential trip which, as well as being extremely enjoyable, gives children the opportunity
to become more independent. All these bring the curriculum alive, support broad and deep
learning in different environments with new experiences.
Pastoral Care
We want your child to be happy and enjoy school. Dayto-day care of the pupil is with the class teacher and
we take seriously our commitment to ‘Every Child
Matters’, so if your child has any anxieties or
emotional problems, please contact the class
teacher initially. If required, we will then
arrange a meeting with other members of staff,
the deputy or the Headteacher. Should the
problem persist, please come and tell us.
The Parent Support Advisor, who can be
contacted through school, is also available to
help with numerous areas like applying for
benefits, completing forms or helping solve
behavioural issues.
Out of School Activities
Extra-curricular activities are extremely important
and children are given the opportunity to join clubs
that particularly interest them, though eligibility may be
limited by age or suitability depending on the club offered.
Clubs are run during lunchtime or after the school day. On offer
over the past
year have been; ukulele, film club, clarinets, keyboard, better-biking, football, tag-rugby,
kwik cricket, dance, netball, ICT, Spanish, gardening, choir, chess, quiz club, flute, fife, and
homework club. Year 6 run a series of clubs specifically for Year 3 and Year 4 which
includes dance, drama, drawing and cheer leading.
Since September 2012 an afterschool club, ‘HOOTS’ has been run in the New Hall. It is
very popular with parents and children … and is growing all the time.
Some children are invited to special events, clubs and learning activities which are arranged
and tailored to their individual needs.
Behaviour
We aim to create a positive environment where children can be safe and happy. We want
our pupils to achieve their best and have pride in their work. Our code of conduct, written
by staff and pupils, helps create a calm, safe and well-organised environment in which
children feel happy and are encouraged to learn. We expect high standards of behaviour,
consideration, tolerance and respect for others and we encourage children to take
responsibility for their own actions and to develop self-discipline. In year 6, pupils are
chosen to be house captains, prefects, librarians, monitors and peer mediators.
We recognise attainment in all areas of the curriculum and encourage each pupil to be
highly motivated to do well. We believe children respond strongly to praise and have a
carefully thought-out system of rewards, including merits, golden-time, weekly
achievement assemblies and school recognition in ‘Star of the Week’. Rewards are given
for effort, achievement and citizenship and thus can be received by any pupil.
The class teacher has a general responsibility for the children in the class and will normally
deal with any day-to-day problems but if problems persist, the school will invite parents
and children to work together.
Exclusion from school will only be resorted to in the most serious circumstances and in
accordance with the County procedures.
Able, Gifted and Talented
Toftwood Junior School is committed to developing full potential in all pupils, including
those who are able, gifted or talented. We aim to provide an educational experience that is
challenging, stimulating, supportive, worthwhile and enjoyable.
Our school utilises a range of strategies, as appropriate, which include:
 Providing challenging activities
 Offering opportunities for independent learning
 Planning activities to develop higher level thinking skills
 Enabling pupils to work with others of similar abilities
 Providing out of class extension and enrichment activities
 Offering further extension and enrichment opportunities with other schools in the
Dereham area.
Pupils are identified and monitored and parents will be informed if their child is offered
opportunities for out of class/school extension and enrichment activities.
Since September 2013 we have taught children in mixed ability classes, a system which is
proven to result in better overall progress for children. However, special groups and
projects and challenge are built into the year to ensure maximum progress for these
children.
School Council
Each class elects one representative to sit on the school council with the executive
committee taken from Y6 and elected by the whole school. At regular meetings, the school
council discusses issues raised by each class council. The school council has gained the
support of the whole school community and plays an important role in matters affecting the
school community.
Section 6 - School Performance
Attendance
The school has a good attendance record which is better than county and national averages.
Attendance & Absence
School
National
2015
2013 2014
2013 2014 2015
Result Trend
% Total Attendance (Primary - 2 term)
97
96.4
96.8
95.2
96.1
96
% Persistent Absence (Primary - 2 term) - 15% threshold
0.9
3
0.2
3.6
2.8
2.7
Status of data 2015 School (2 term): - provisional data
Key
Colour-coded rating - this rates schools against the national maintained schools figures.
Above national average
Below national average
In line with national average
Lowest 10% nationally
Ranking data not provided
Keystage 2 results
Keystage 2
results
KS2 Reading, Writing, Maths
(%L4+)
KS2 Reading, Maths
(%L4B+), Writing (%L4+)
KS2 Reading, Writing, Maths
(%L5+)
KS2 Reading, Writing, Maths
(%L4+) **PP: FSM6/CLA
yes**
School
Areas & LA
2015
2013 2014
Result Trend
National
2015
District
Norfolk
Avg
2013 2014 2015
Gender
gap (%)
FSM6/CLA
gap (%)
Cluster
Avg
2
78
69
75
75
79
80
67
57
64
63
67
69
21
15
21
21
24
24
69
57
63
63
67
70
91
85
87
86
89
89
82
74
76
75
78
80
78
81
74
4
62
66
65
4
22
21
30
18
56
58
73
18
KS2 Reading (%L4+) (test)
87
87
88
3
KS2 Reading (%L4B+) (test)
76
70
78
3
KS2 Reading (%L5+) (test)
46
43
51
7
25
47
41
45
45
50
48
88
81
8
1
87
79
84
83
85
87
32
37
22
31
33
24
32
30
33
36
7
85
79
84
85
86
87
74
66
73
73
76
77
38
31
38
41
42
42
KS2 Writing (%L4+) (TA used
84
from 2012 onwards)
KS2 Writing (%L5+) (TA used
38
from 2012 onwards)
22
14
KS2 Maths (%L4+) (test)
85
87
85
5
KS2 Maths (%L4B+) (test)
69
77
72
0
KS2 Maths (%L5+) (test)
38
39
43
1
84
78
72
9
77
67
74
74
76
80
75
62
66
2
69
59
66
65
68
73
56
54
54
6
49
41
48
48
52
56
KS2 Grammar, Punctuation
and Spelling (%L4+)
KS2 Grammar, Punctuation
and Spelling (%L4B+)
KS2 Grammar, Punctuation
and Spelling (%L5+)
21
KS1-2 % Reading (test) Expected Progress
KS1-2 % Writing (TA) Expected Progress
KS1-2 % Maths (test) Expected Progress
KS1-2 % Reading (test) Expected Progress **PP:
FSM6/CLA yes**
KS1-2 % Writing (TA) Expected Progress **PP:
FSM6/CLA yes**
KS1-2 % Maths (test) Expected Progress **PP:
FSM6/CLA yes**
KS1-2 % Reading (test) Above Exp Progress
KS1-2 % Writing (TA) Above Exp Progress
KS1-2 % Maths (test) - Above
Exp Progress
KS2 APS - Reading, Writing
& Maths
81
86
90
3
5
92
87
88
88
91
91
91
93
86
10
5
91
86
91
92
93
94
88
88
84
8
8
87
81
86
88
90
90
72
72
86
89
83
84
84
88
88
94
78
90
85
84
88
89
91
92
78
83
90
84
75
80
84
86
86
18
23
30
29
28
31
30
35
33
21
28
22
33
27
32
30
33
36
12
26
25
30
23
29
31
35
34
28.7
27.6
28.3
28.3 28.7 28.8
28.3 28.4 28.8
0.4
28.3 28.5 29.3
0.5
29.3
28.2
28.6
28.5 29
KS2 APS - Writing (TA)
28 27.8 27.8
1.8
28.2
26.9
27.7
27.5 27.9 28.2
KS2 APS - Maths (test)
28.4 28.7 29.1
0.2
28.6
27.6
28.4
28.7 29
KS2 APS - Reading (test)
1.7
29
29
Our children broadly attain the same as the National Average at the end of Key Stage 2.
30% of children attained a Level 5 in all 3 subjects. This is 6% above the National average.
Our target is to ensure every child fully makes the progress they are capable of to reach their own potential. Attainment will then
rise even further.
Section 7 -
Home/School Links
We welcome the involvement of parents in
school life – school and parents working
together will result in your child
achieving maximum progress and
getting the most out of school. During
the course of the year, there will be
many opportunities for you to come
into school to view children’s work
(Open House), meet with teachers,
share in assemblies, entertainment and
general school activities. Newsletters
and our text messaging service keep you
informed of all that is going on.
Parents’
evenings are held each term for you to discuss your child’s
progress with the class teacher and be involved in setting the next targets. A full written
report is sent home in the summer term and a mid year progress report in February.
However if at any time, you would like to come in and discuss your child’s progress or if
you have any other concerns, please ring and make an appointment.
Home/school diaries are issued to all children to encourage two-way general information
messages between teachers and parents. Diaries should be taken home and brought back
daily irrespective of whether an entry has been made.
We are always appreciative of offers of help. Help is needed in a variety of forms: reading,
cooking, display, educational visits, special assemblies and clubs so if you have some free
time, please let us know. For the safety of all our pupils and in line with the School
Safeguarding Policy, we require all parents and volunteers to undergo a Disclosure Barring
Service check.
Parent Teacher Association
All parents and carers of children at the school and all staff are automatically members of
our PTA. It is a friendly group who organise entertaining events and support the children’s
education by raising funds for special items. The committee is elected in the autumn term
at a meeting of all interested parents and welcomes the help and support of all other parents
in making a success of the various activities which benefit every child in the school in some
way.
Section 8 – Useful Information
Absence from School
If your child is absent from school, please would you contact the school office before 9:30
or earlier if possible; an answer phone is available 24 hours a day for your convenience. For
your child’s safety, the secretarial staff will follow up any unexplained absences. Please
also avoid medical or dental appointments during school time if it is not an emergency.
Holidays
Taking children out of school for holidays during term time is proven to have a detrimental
effect on their education. Headteachers can no longer authorise holidays but can authorise
absence for exceptional circumstances. If you wish your child to be absent for ‘exceptional
circumstances’ please complete a form obtainable from the office. We have a family
absence policy in conjunction with Toftwood Infant School.
Absences that are not agreed are marked as unauthorised in the registers. This is shared
with the local authority and attendance improvement officers. If a child is attending at less
than 85% a fast track attendance meeting can be called. The attendance improvement
officer may visit you at home and this may result in a court appearance and/or fine. If a
concern is ever raised about a child, for any reason, social services will contact a school and
we have to pass on attendance information. They will particularly look at unauthorised
absences as a cause for concern.
We will consistently work towards a goal of 100% attendance for all children. Every
opportunity will be used to convey to pupils and their parents or carers the importance of
regular and punctual attendance. We aim to work together to ensure your child reaches
their potential and part of this will be achieved through regular attendance.
Use of Images
The school makes extensive use of photographic images
for a range of purposes. If parents do not wish their
child’s image to be used we request that you inform
us using the form provided on entry to the school.
Your consent can be added or withdrawn at any
time.
Emergency School Closures
School closure is extremely rare but in the events
of an emergency or adverse weather conditions,
notification will be broadcast on local radio stations
between 6.30am and 8.30 am and between 6.00pm and
6.30pm. Norfolk County Council also provides up-to-date
information on their website www.norfolkesinet.org.uk
We also have a text messaging service via which we would send a message out to parents
regarding closure.
Security
Your child’s safety and security are at the top of our priority list. The main door is always
locked and only opened externally via a coded electronic pad. Fencing and gates prevent
access from the road. All visitors must report to the school office where they receive
identification. The school has a designated health and safety representative and checks are
carried out as required. A fire practice is carried out each term. We have a security system
which is linked directly to the police station in case of intruders.
Water
The benefits of drinking water as an aid to improving concentration
and general health are well advertised. Pupils are encouraged to
bring transparent clearly named water bottles with a ‘sports’ top to
school, which they can keep in their classrooms. Please note this
must only contain water.
Health
On your child’s entry to the school, you will be required to complete a health section on the
admission form giving details of any condition that is likely to affect your child's
performance or happiness at school. It is very important that this information is updated if
any changes occur.
Children who are prescribed inhalers for bronchial complaints need to carry a named
inhaler with them; a spare named inhaler in the pharmacy issued box should also be
brought into school to be kept in our medical room.
Other medicines should be
administered before and after school as prescribed by the doctor, and not brought to school.
If necessary, parents are welcome to call into school to administer medicines at the
recommended time. In the matter of serious or chronic illness, where long-term medication
is needed, please come and discuss the situation with the Headteacher. In cases of serious
accident or illness at school, parents will be notified immediately.
Where urgent medical treatment is needed, the child will be taken to hospital or to a
doctor's surgery. When a child is ill but no immediate treatment is needed, parents will be
informed and the child can be collected. If the school is unable to contact the parents, the
child will be cared for until parents can be informed.
A member of staff is on duty in the medical room during break and lunch time for minor
accidents and the school has a number of fully qualified first-aiders.
Child Protection and Safeguarding
Because of the day-to-day contact with children, schools are particularly well placed to
observe outward signs of abuse, changes in behaviour or failure to develop. Parents should
be aware that where it is felt there may be signs that a child has suffered from any form of
abuse, the school is required as part of the Local Safeguarding Children’s Board, to report
this concern immediately. In line with our commitment to Child Protection, Safeguarding
and Every Child Matters we follow the Local Authority guidelines and procedures
ensuring active support for Looked after Children. Our policies on Child Protection and
Safeguarding are available on request.
No Smoking
The whole of the school area is a non-smoking area.
Valuables
Mobile phones, radios, personal stereos, potentially dangerous toys including laser pens,
computer toys and games must not be brought to school. Although we take all reasonable
measures, loss or damage of possessions is the responsibility of the child concerned.
Lost Property
Children are encouraged to hand anything "found" to their class teacher or to the office staff
who will take steps to find the owner(s). Clear name marking on all personal possessions is
required.
School Related Documentation
Our Ofsted inspection report for July 2013 can be viewed on the Ofsted website at
www.ofsted.gov.uk/ofsted-home/inspection-reports and paper copies can be obtained from
the school office. The school has a comprehensive set of policies and these are also
available, on request, from the school office.
Section 9 - Travel to School
For health reasons, we encourage pupils to walk or cycle to school and expect them to
behave sensibly and safely.
Walking
All children should enter and leave the premises by the small pedestrian gate (adjacent to
the playground) or by the pathway between Toftwood Junior School and Toftwood Infant
School. Children who cross Shipdham Road should use the School Crossing Patrol which
is adjacent to the Post Office and manned from:
8.15 - 9.00
12.00 - 12.25
12.55 - 1.20
3.15 - 3.50
Cycling
Children may cycle to and from school. We strongly advise parents not to allow
children to independently ride a bicycle to school unless they have passed a cycling
proficiency test. Lower school children should ride under the supervision of and be
closely accompanied by a competent adult.
Parents should write to request a cycle permission slip before a bicycle is used.
Parents are advised to periodically check the bicycle is roadworthy and of a suitable
size. The school may also occasionally check bicycles and might exclude any considered
unsafe.
Children should dismount and walk their bike into school via the playground access gate and
park it in the covered bike area, which is locked during the school day.
If preferred, cyclists may walk their bicycles along the connecting path between Toftwood
Junior and Infant school.
Caution should be exercised especially leaving at the end of the school day when the roads
are particularly congested. Cycle Helmets must be worn by children cycling to and from
school.
Parents who drop their children off by car are encouraged to use the drop off horse shoe
rather than park outside the school causing congestion at a busy part of the day. Parents
should not use the car park at this time when staff are arriving.
Visitors/parents, who need to come into the school building after 9.15, may use
the car park. The playground is used as a car park on special occasions such as
children's discos, events and parent evenings.
Please note that the school is not responsible for the children until they are on the
school premises.
Section 10 – Policies
Summary of the Charging and Remissions Policy
The Governing Body recognises the valuable contribution that additional activities make
towards pupils' learning, personal development and social education. It will promote
enrichment activities, both as part of The National Curriculum and as additional optional
extras. Participation in any optional activity is on the basis of parental choice and a
willingness to meet such charges may be required.
Optional Activities
 Musical Instrument Tuition for small groups
 Education wholly or mainly out of normal school hours
 School Residential Trips - board & lodging
Specified Activities
Voluntary contributions may be requested when a specified activity occurs mainly during
school hours.
 Extra Curricular Visits and enhancement activities Educational Visits/curriculum
enrichment activities occurring at school
 School Trips -Tuition and Transport
Remission of Charges
Where the parent(s) of a pupil is/are in receipt of :








Income Support
Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
the guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit
and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for
Working Tax Credit
Universal Credit
the Governing Body will offer to remit the charges.
The Governors have adopted Norfolk County Council’s charging and remission policy,
which may be seen at school.
Breakages/Vandalism
The Governing Body will exercise its right to request payment for the cost of deliberate
damage. Examples include broken windows, broken furniture, defaced or lost library
books, damaged plaster/paint work, light fittings, doors.
Lost Property
In principle, lost property will be held in school for a whole term to allow time for children
/ parents to discover and reclaim their loss. Lost property is stored in the New Hall entrance
Lobby. Small / valuable items are held in the school office.
A lost property table / display will be put out in the playground at the
end of a day in the last week of each half term.
At the end of each term unclaimed items with a value of less than £20
will be disposed of.
Valuable items
Sometimes valuable items (estimated value in excess of £20), are found on the school
premises and handed in to school staff. If they remain unclaimed after 7 days the police
will be informed so any potential claimant who visits the police station can be informed
where to retrieve their item from. This only applies to items found on the school premises.
A list of lost valuable items will be displayed on the school notice board.
After a period of 28 school days any valuable items remaining unclaimed will be offered to
the finder. If they do not wish to take ownership of the article it will be listed on ‘Annual
catalogue of lost valuable items’. Towards the end of the school year this catalogue will be
circulated and the items will be offered for a sealed bid auction by the Parent Teacher
Association.
Arrangements for Dealing with Complaints
We hope that you will be happy with all school has to offer but if you are unhappy about
any aspect of your child's education or experience at school, you should make an
appointment to see the class teacher. We hope that discussing the matter with the teacher
should be enough to resolve the problem. However, if you are still unhappy and wish to
take the matter further, you should make an appointment to see the Year Team Leader. If
you feel the matter still has not been resolved, then please arrange an appointment with the
Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher. If after discussion with the Headteacher, the matter
remains unresolved, you should state the issue in writing to the Chair of Governors. If this
fails, arrangements will be made for an impartial committee of the Governing Body (three
members) to consider your complaint. You will be given the opportunity to make
representations at the meeting and can be accompanied by a friend. A decision will be sent
to you in writing seven school days following the meeting.
Section 11 - School Uniform
We ask parents to support our school uniform policy and have deliberately chosen clothing
and colours to provide a uniform of items that are easily obtainable, practical and
reasonably priced.
Normal Wear for Boys and Girls
School Sweatshirt / cardigan in
maroon (available from Birds of Dereham)
Charcoal grey / black trousers or knee length skirt
White or light blue polo shirt or blouse
Grey, black or white socks (grey or black tights
for girls)
Black shoes (flat heels only)
In the summer:
Tailored shorts or culottes or three-quarter length
trousers
Plain light blue or light blue/white check dress
Please note that trainers may not be worn indoors
Indoor P.E. Kit
Children need their P.E. kit in school every day.
Short sleeved T-shirt in house team colour
Plain shorts
Lightweight trainers or plimsolls
Outdoor P.E. Kit
Dependent on weather:
Plain shorts/tracksuit bottoms
Short/long sleeved round neck T-shirt
in house team colour
Trainers (white or black)
For Swimming
Trunks or costume
Swimming Hat
Towel
We expect all pupils to take care over their appearance. Hair needs to be neat and must
be tied back for health and safety reasons.
Any ‘fashion’ or ‘extreme’ hairstyles are appropriate for the weekend, holidays and
school discos. Please ensure your child’s appearance is suitable for each situation. There
are regular fund raising non uniform days.
Make-up and nail varnish are not allowed. Only one pair of stud earrings and a watch
may be worn. No other jewellery is permissible and all jewellery must be removed for
PE.
 Sweatshirts can be purchased from Birds of Dereham, as can coloured tee shirts for
PE and swim hats.
Please name all items of clothing and equipment.
Section 12 – Staff and Governors 2015
When vacancies occur our school always follows procedures which are in line with
recommended safer recruitment practices.
Teaching:
Mr. R. Turner
Miss K Smith
Mr. A. Stratton
Miss C Yeoman
Mrs. S .Smith
Mr. M Ingham
Mr. D Hardy
Dr. A Francis
Mrs. A. MacQueen
Mrs. T. Robson
Miss H. Bluck
Mrs. R. Hodges
Mrs. V. Heaton
Miss F. Macpherson
Miss T Loft
Mrs. S. Saunders
Mr. P. Robins
Miss J. Sadler
Pastoral Care
Mrs. E Feeke
Headteacher, SLT, Child Protection, Leadership for ICT and
assessment.
Deputy Headteacher, SLT, Behaviour Management, Midday
Supervisors, Child Protection, Leadership for P.S.H.E and
Citizenship School Council.
Inclusion/SEN Co-ordinator, SLT, SEN Cluster representative.
SLT, Pupil Premium Champion.
SLT, (On Maternity Leave)
Leadership for Design Technology, Health & Safety
Representative, First-Aider,
Part-time teacher, Music subject leader,
Teacher, Science subject leader.
Part time teacher, RE subject leader.
Newly Qualified Teacher
Newly Qualified Teacher
Part time teacher, Art subject leader.
History / Geography Subject Leader .
Leadership for English ,
Leadership for Mathematics
Trainee SENCo, Leadership for PE
Class teacher
Newly Qualified Teacher
Individual Pupil Support, Senior Designated Professional,
Child Protection and Safeguarding
SLT = Senior Leadership Team
Education Support Staff:
Mrs. T Bond, Mrs. P. Brown, Mrs. L. Calver, Mrs. S. Cason, Mrs. K. Ellis, Mrs. E. Feeke,
Mrs. L. Fisher, Mrs. L. Hampson, Mrs. S. Henman, Mrs. S. Hawes Mrs. J. Jessop,
Mrs. M. Mann, Mrs. M. Marshall, Mr. G. Monks, Mrs. T. Murfet, Miss R. Parsons,
Miss G. Saunders, Mrs. K. Shaw, Mrs. A. Thorne, Mrs. K. Travis, Mrs. K. Williams.
Administrative and Clerical:
School Secretary/Finance Officer: ............................ Mrs. P. Jones
School Secretarial Assistant: ..................................... Mrs. S. Colsell
Receptionist: .............................................................. Mrs. N. Flynn
Caretaking and Cleaning:
Site Superintendent/Manager …. Mr. M. Rayner
Cleaners: ......…………………. Mrs. P. Bayliss, Mr. C. Dixon
Kitchen Staff:
Cook-in-Charge: ………………. Mrs. L. Harris
Catering Assistant ……………. Mrs. R. Howe
Catering Assistant ……………… Mrs. N. Mounsey
Midday Supervisory Assistants:
Mrs. M. Bales, Mrs. P. Bedford, Mrs. L. Begley, Mrs. K. Ellis, Mrs. S. Henman, Mr. P
Kozakiewicz, Mrs. J Martin, Mrs. S. Pereira, Mrs. S Roe.
Our school is firmly committed to promoting staff well-being and participates in the
Norfolk Well Being Scheme. At various times during the year activities are organized to
ensure that adults working with your children are happy, healthy and positively
motivated.
We have a scheduled performance management and appraisal system which supports the
professional development of individual members of staff while addressing whole school
development priorities.
We are fully committed to continuous professional development and are heavily involved
in the work of SNITT while supporting workplace based learning and research for a
growing number of aspiring teachers/educationalists.
We have a range of experienced and expert staff who we like to retain… but experience
tells us that well qualified and experienced professionals often seek promotion!
Our Governors
Chair
Mrs J. Smith
Parent Representatives (4)
Mr. P. Pedlow
Mr. D. Baird- Parker
Miss K. Brown
Mrs. K.Heath
Staff Representatives (3)
Mrs. L. Fisher
Mr. A Stratton
Mr. R. Turner
Community Representatives (4)
Mr. E. Cushion
Mr. K. Green
Clerk:
Mrs. J. Jackson
All Governors may be contacted by letter via the school office, but governors are also
happy for less formal contact and are present in the playground on a regular basis.
Governors are always happy to take comments or suggestions from parents on board
All parents are eligible to stand for election as Parent Governors and to vote in these
elections. The period of office lasts for four years and a Parent Governor does not have to
resign automatically when his/her child leaves the school.
Minutes, reports and agendas are held in school for parents to view at any reasonable ti
APPENDIX 1
The Admission Process
How do I apply?
 You can apply online during the three transfer rounds at
www.admissionsonline.norfolk.gov.uk
Why should I apply online?
 There are a number of advantages to applying online.
1.
2.
3.
4.
It’s quick, safe and secure
Your application will be confirmed electronically
You will be able to view the application at any stage
You will be able to find out which school your child has been offered the afternoon
on the day before the letters are received.
(Remember, free access to the internet is available at all Norfolk libraries).
Apply at www.admissionsonline.norfolk.gov.uk
At which school do I stand the best chance of getting a place?
 You are entitled to make a preference for any school, but you should read the
oversubscription rules for that school to work out what priority your child would have for
a place. Most schools give a higher priority to children living in a defined area (the
catchment area) and most are able to accommodate all pupils living in their catchment
area. If a place is offered at a school outside your catchment area, your child will not be
guaranteed a place at the next school in that area when it is time to transfer.
Where can I find out which is my catchment school?
 You can find out the catchment schools for your home address using the website at
www.whereilive.norfolk.gov.uk
What is used to determine the priority for places?
 The admission authority must use the published admission rules to prioritise
applications. A parent is entitled to provide additional information in support of
their application but it can only be considered where it confirms one of the stated
oversubscription rules for the school.
Is there a limit to the number of children in a class?
 In Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 (children aged 4, 5 and 6) children should normally
be taught in classes of no more than 30. There is no legal limit for children in all
other year groups. However it is important that classes are not too large so that all
pupils get an effective education.
Should I state a preference for more than one school?
 Norfolk County Council encourage parents to state three preferences for schools.
These preferences will be considered by the admission authority for each school.
You will not increase your chance of obtaining a place at a popular school by
putting only one preference or the same school three times.
How do I apply for a school not in Norfolk?
 If you wish to apply for a place at a school run by another local authority, you must
include this school as one of your three preferences on your application form and
return it to us. We will then work with that authority to check whether they can
offer you a place. Norfolk County Council’s job is then to make sure that when a
parent could potentially be offered more than one place, their highest preference is
offered and other potential offers refused. This is to ensure that parents are only
offered one school place and do not ‘block’ places that could be offered to other
parents.
How does co-ordination work?
 Each admission authority (Norfolk County Council for community schools) has to
consider all preferences for the school and prioritise them in accordance with the
published oversubscription rules.
Does Norfolk County Council reserve a place at my catchment school if I do not state a
preference for it?
 No - admission authorities cannot reserve places so you are advised to include your
catchment school as one of your preferences, where in most cases you will have a
high priority for a place. Norfolk County Council will tell you the catchment school
in the invitation letter that goes to all pupils in Norfolk schools who are due to start
school or due to transfer. If you are not sure of your catchment school, please
contact Norfolk County Council. If you do not include your catchment school as a
preference, you may find that Norfolk County Council cannot offer you a place at
either your catchment school or your preferred school.
What happens if a school gets too many applications?
 When there are not enough places at a school for all the children who have applied,
Norfolk County Council use oversubscription rules to decide who will get in.
How many children can a school admit?
 Each school has a Published Admission Number which is the maximum number of
places available in the transfer year in September 2015. The Published Admission
Number for each school is on the individual school’s page on SchoolFinder
available on Norfolk County Council website at www.norfolk.gov.uk/schoolfinder
What happens if Norfolk County Council cannot offer any of my preferences?
 In accordance with their legal duty Norfolk County Council will offer you a place at
the next nearest school with places available. You still have the right to appeal
against any preference that has been refused.
Who should complete the application?
Norfolk County Council expect a parent or parents to complete the application. They
consider any person with parental responsibility to be the parent of a child. Any
application signed by a parent has to be considered by Norfolk County Council. If more
than one parent has PR Norfolk County Council are not required to obtain the agreement
of both parents before processing an application.
Who do you define as a brother or sister?
 When Norfolk County Council use the oversubscription rules, ‘brother’ or ‘sister’
means: brothers or sisters living at the same address including adopted children,
step-brothers, step-sisters and children in foster care within a family unit. Some
admission authority schools may have a different definition.
What about twins, triplets and multiple births?
 If a school has only one place available and your children have priority for that
place, all of the siblings will be offered a place, even though there is only one place
available. Siblings born in the same school year will be treated as multiple births
and exceptions will also be granted in these cases.
What is the home address?
 Applications are processed on the basis of the home address for the child when you
submit your application. In the majority of cases, this will be the parents’ home
address although in cases where the parents are separated you will need to tell
Norfolk County Council which address is the home address.
What happens if parents live at separate addresses?
 Where a child lives with separated parents who have shared responsibility, each for
part of the week, the home address will be considered to be the address that the
child lives at for most of the week (including weekends). Norfolk County Council
will expect evidence to support this at the time of application. In cases where the
child spends an equal proportion of the week with both parents, evidence of the
main contact address and which parent receives the child benefit will be required to
support the application.
Can each parent make an application for their child's school place?
 Norfolk County Council expect one application per child. If more than one
application is received only one will be processed and unless parents separately
request more than one offer letter only one will be sent. Norfolk County Council
will endeavour to send an additional letter if requested.
What happens if parents cannot agree on which school their child should attend?
Norfolk County Council can only offer one school place to each child and are unable to
process applications where there is a conflict between parents as to which school their
child should attend. Where they receive different preferences from parents they will firstly
write to the parents and explain that they cannot process the application until agreement is
reached. If agreement is not reached by the latest date for consideration of “late
applications”, all preferences will be frozen and a place will be offered at the nearest
school to the child’s home address with places available. Norfolk County Council will
require evidence of parental agreement in the form of written confirmation from each
parent confirming their agreement or a Court Order.
For in year admissions Norfolk County Council will expect the child to stay at their
current school until there is agreement by the parent in writing as to which school the child
should attend or an Order is made by the Court.
What if I move house after I have applied for a school place?
 If you move after you have stated your preference, you must inform Norfolk County
Council. If it is after the closing date it may not always be possible to get a place at
the local school for your new address. Let Norfolk County Council know as soon as
possible when you think you will be moving. You will need to provide evidence of
the new address. Norfolk County Council cannot take your new address into
account until they have received evidence that your child lives at the new address.
Even though you may know that you are moving to a new address in the future.
They cannot take this into account until your child is living there.
What if I move out of the catchment area for the school I have applied
for before the offer letters are sent out?
 You must notify Norfolk County Council of any change of address as soon as you
can as they must use the home address at the date the places are allocated. If you are
no longer living in your original home address at the date places are allocated and
only tell us of your move after offer day we may have to withdraw the place.
Will Norfolk County Council ask for documentary evidence of my home address?
 They will ask a sample of families to provide information to confirm the child’s
home address. They will contact these parents where additional information is
required. They may also require parents to provide further evidence to support the
change of address after their child starts at the school. If a school place has been
secured through false information provided about a home address, they have the
power to withdraw the place offered even if the child has already started at the
school.
Fraudulent Addresses
To ensure a fair process for all families Norfolk County Council check carefully to ensure
that they use the correct address to prioritise applications. However, if you feel a parent
has not provided the correct information contact Norfolk County Council in confidence by
e-mail at [email protected] or by telephoning 01603 224226.
Any parent who has obtained a place using a fraudulent address will have the place
withdrawn. If the fraudulent address is discovered after their child starts school the place
will still be withdrawn and the child will be asked to leave the school.
What does “due to transfer” mean?
 Children in their last year at an Infant are due to transfer to a Junior school.
Children in their last year (Year 6) at a Junior school or Primary school are due to
transfer to a secondary school.
Will my child be interviewed?
 Toftwood Junior, like all schools, may wish to meet with you before your child
starts at the school to share information or discuss particular needs and issues for
your child. However, this must not in any way be used or interpreted as a factor in
considering whether your child is offered a place or not.
No parents or children are interviewed as any part of the application or admission
process, in any school.
Will I be offered help with transport?
 Norfolk County Council will offer your child free transport to their catchment or
nearest school if it is more than two miles away if your child is under 8 years old on
1st September of a school year but this increases to more than three miles when
your child is over 8.
Free transport will not be provided where parents express a preference for a school which
is not the catchment or nearest school to their address.
My child has special needs, will this affect the decision?
 Children with special educational needs, but without a statement of special
educational needs, are treated in the same way as any other applicant. This means
they cannot be turned down for a place just because a school thinks it cannot cater
for their needs. Where a child has a statement of special educational needs or
Education Health and Care Plan, adults with parental responsibility will have been
consulted by Norfolk County Council on the particular needs and the provision
(including a named school where appropriate) that will be made to meet these
needs. Once a school is named in a statement, the school has to admit the child.
Parents of children with statements of special educational needs have the right of
appeal to the Special Needs and Disability Tribunal.
Can I change my preferences after I have sent the form in?
 If you wish to change the order of your preferences after submitting your
application you must email or write to Norfolk County Council with your changes.
You need to be aware that if you change your preferences after the closing date
these will have a lower priority than those preferences received on time. You can
only express three preferences in total.
Can I change my preferences after submitting my application online?
 Once your online application has been submitted you cannot make any further
changes to your application online. If you wish to change the order of your
preferences after sending in your application form you must email or write to
Norfolk County Council with your changes. You need to be aware that if you
change your preferences after the closing date these will have a lower priority than
those preferences received on time. You can only express three preferences in total.
What if I want to consider flexi-schooling?
 Occasionally schools may make special arrangements for a child to be educated part
time at school and part time at home (often described as flexischooling) with the
family. However, this is at the discretion of the headteacher
What can I do if I am refused a place?
 If you are unable to get a place for your child at Toftwood Junior School, you will
be offered an alternative place. You will also be given the opportunity to appeal.
Appeals will be held in the second half of the summer term. Norfolk County
Council keep a waiting list until the end of December of all children who have been
refused a place at a higher ranked school. If any places become available at
Toftwood Junior School, all those who have expressed a preference for a place will
be considered, including those that have applied after the closing date. Norfolk
County Council will use the oversubscription rules to decide who can be offered
any available places.