PROSPECTUS

Transcription

1 PROSPECTUS

2 Table of Contents CATCHMENT AREA SERVED BY HIGHWORTH SCHOOL:... 4 INTRODUCTION FROM THE HEADTEACHER... 5 INTRODUCTION FROM THE HEAD OF EARLY YEARS... 6 TYPE OF SCHOOL... 7 ADMISSION TO HIGHWORTH... 8 WHY CHOOSE HIGHWORTH?... 9 OUR AIMS SCHOOL ETHOS BEHAVIOUR HOMEWORK COMMUNICATIONS SPORTS SWIMMING OUR POLICIES SCHOOL UNIFORM JEWELLERY AND EARRINGS MOBILE TELEPHONES UNIFORM SHOES SECURITY STATEMENT HEALTHY SCHOOLS FACILITIES LOCATION GROUNDS COMPUTERS LIBRARY MUSIC SOUND AND LIGHTING HEARING IMPAIRED DEPARTMENT NATIONAL CURRICULUM ADDITIONAL SUBJECTS SEX EDUCATION RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (RE) SCHOOL COUNCIL

3 HIGHWORTH AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB AND HOLIDAY PLAY SCHEMES CONTACT DETAILS ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS SCHOOL ORGANISATION PUPIL RECORDS ACCESS TO INFORMATION ABSENCES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE FORMS TERM DATES (FOR PUPILS) SESSION TIMES AND ARRANGEMENTS DELIVERY AND COLLECTION ARRANGEMENTS TRANSITION AT 11 PLUS COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE REPORT FROM THE CHAIR OF GOVERNORS... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. WHAT DO GOVERNORS DO? HOW TO CONTACT A GOVERNOR BECOMING A PARENT GOVERNOR - ELECTIONS MEETING OUR OBLIGATIONS FACILITIES FOR THE DISABLED SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT SPORTS REPORT LIAISON WITH PARENTS WHY SHOULD YOU GET INVOLVED? HOW TO GET INVOLVED? HIGHWORTH'S FRIENDS LETTINGS

4 Highworth Combined School and Nursery Highworth Close, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP13 7PH. Tel: Fax: (01494) (01494) Website: HEADTEACHER: Mr Graeme Kilner BEd (Oxon) CHAIR CH AIR OF GOVERNORS: Mrs Emma Starling Catchment Area Served by Highworth School: Amersham Road from The Royal Grammar School to St John's Road, Kingshill Road side includes Brands Hill Avenue, Green Road and Kingshill Grange (Kingshill Drive etc). Totteridge side includes Totteridge Lane to the Totteridge stores. North side of Walton Drive from Totteridge Lane to Kingston Road, then both sides. Arnison Avenue and roads to either side including Hobart, Salisbury, etc and the east side of Amersham Road down to Amersham Hill Drive and Hepplewhite Close. 4

5 Introduction from the Headteacher It is now nearly 20 years since our school opened and I find it hard to believe that I have been the Headteacher here for this long. I look back on these years with a mixture of pride and gratitude. I am proud of what our school has achieved in this time and am extremely grateful to have worked with the pupils and staff who have made this success possible. Together they have made Highworth such a special place. This view is not just my own. Parents, governors and many visitors comment on how much they appreciate our positive ethos and atmosphere. Moreover this view is also shared by OFSTED whose stance is more objective. Although an OFSTED report can never paint a completed picture of any school, it is significant that all our reports have recognised Highworth s many strengths and praised us for our achievements. They have all been publications of which any school would be proud. A key element in our school s success has been the outstanding behaviour of pupils (Ofsted 2014) and the achievement of high academic standards. However, this is only one of our strengths and for me it is the school s ethos that is our greatest achievement. We are committed to developing happy, well-rounded children and, as I walk around the school, our success in this area is always selfevident. OFSTED were equally impressed and in our last inspection report they write, The positive ethos that results from the good care that pupils receive enables them to develop good personal qualities. They work and play harmoniously, come to school regularly and their behaviour is outstanding I am very fortunate to work with both the pupils and staff that attend our school. Our pupils are the most rewarding I have encountered in my career. Their behaviour, enthusiasm and caring nature are critically important. I believe that our greatest asset by far is the staff. Their commitment to Highworth and its pupils is second to none. They strive for the highest possible standards in all aspects of the school and give generously of their time to offer a wide range of extra-curricular clubs. These are the envy of many other primary schools and range from sport to the arts and even include a youth club for the older pupils. If after reading our prospectus you would like to find out more about our school, I would be delighted to show you around. I set aside time each week for prospective parents and to arrange a visit you need simply to contact Karen Bennett, our school secretary, who will arrange an appointment. 5

6 Introduction from the Head of Early Years The Early Years Foundation Stage (which includes Nursery and our Reception classes) at Highworth is a welcoming, fun and exciting place where children feel safe, enjoy learning and develop the skills they need to become lifelong learners. Children s achievements are celebrated through praise and encouragement and every child is made to feel valued. The stimulating environments in Nursery and Reception are carefully planned and children s work is displayed in the class and shared with others. The Nursery has a secure outside play area which is continuously being developed to support the children s needs and interests. Outdoor activities are just as important as those the children enjoy indoors. Pupils in our Reception and Year 1 classes also benefit from dedicated outdoor leaning areas. Both feature a vibrantly coloured covered area which provides opportunities for the children to access the outdoors every day of the year. The Early Years Foundation State welcomes the support and help of parents. They can help during the session; support activities by giving donations; attend special events; or undertake small homework tasks. We also welcome other members of the community coming to work with us, for example, people who assist with our topics; students from local schools and colleges; grandparents and neighbours. The Early Years team work very closely together to deliver the same Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. Staff plan together to ensure continuity and progression across the year groups. The children have the opportunity to work with all the adults and children across the phase. Therefore, subject to Local Authority Admission Procedures, the transition from Nursery to Reception at Highworth is made as smoothly as possible. We encourage children who attend Highworth s Early Years Foundation Stage to become confident and independent learners, enabling them to achieve their full potential in all areas of their development and education. 6

7 Type of School Highworth is a County Combined School which caters for Nursery, First School & Middle School pupils. Children join the nursery in the September BEFORE their 4 th birthday. Children join the main school in the September BEFORE their 5 th Birthday. We are one of the few schools in High Wycombe to offer a curriculum planned to operate seamlessly for pupils aged from three to eleven years old. The school has an agreed capacity of 420 places plus 130 nursery places (65 in the morning session and 65 in the afternoon session). We also have a department for 12 children who are deaf, or hearing impaired, which offers a range of specialist support including sign language. All children are fully integrated into mainstream classes where they are supported by qualified staff. The Highworth After-School, Breakfast and Holiday Club is based within the grounds. Further details on page 22. Parents who wish to find out more about the many opportunities that Highworth can offer their child are encouraged to visit us. The Headteacher, Mr Graeme Kilner, would be very pleased to welcome prospective parents to the school, introduce them to the staff and children and to show them the facilities. Please contact the school secretary to make an appointment. 7

8 Admission to Highworth We are a County school and follow the Buckinghamshire County Council Admission Policy as published annually in the Local Authority s Admission Booklet. Places Available ACADEMIC YEAR SEPTEMBER 2015 JULY 2016 School: 56 full time places were available for reception children. All were filled according to the County admission criteria and a waiting list exists. Most other year groups are also full and waiting lists are in place. Nursery: 39 places in the morning session and 39 places in the afternoon session. ACADEMIC YEAR SEPTEMBER 2016 JULY 2017 School: 56 Full time places (all pupils entering one of our reception classes are entitled to a Full Time place from the start of the autumn term.) ALL parents of children who were born between 1 st September 2011 and 31 st August 2012 MUST follow Buckinghamshire County Council s admission procedure and formally apply for a place in a RECEPTION class between 4 th November 2015 and the deadline of 15 th January This application process is separate and different from the admission process into our nursery. More details can be found on the Buckinghamshire County Council website Nursery: 39 places in the morning session and 39 places in the afternoon session Parents who wish their child to enter our nursery should complete a NURSERY admission form. These are available from the school secretary. Application for admission to the nursery may be made as soon as a child is 2½ years old. These applications are filed in birth date order. Most children spend three terms in our nursery and join us in September at the start of the academic year in which they have their FOURTH birthday. This means that most nursery children will be THREE years old when they join in September. If spaces become available during the year these may be filled with children who have turned three since the September allocations. 8

9 Why Choose Highworth? We have a staff and Governing Body full of enthusiasm about what we are doing now and what we can do in the future. We have a group of talented teachers who devote themselves to providing an excellent education for all children. We are a caring school concerned with children as individuals with their own particular needs. We are one of the few schools in Wycombe able to offer children a place from the age of three until they are eleven years old, subject to Local Authority Admission Procedures. The curriculum starts in the nursery and runs seamlessly throughout the school. We offer a hot meals service which allows parents to pre-order hot meals each week. These are free for pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes and reasonably priced for older pupils. We feel it is important that children develop a healthy outlook towards eating, so all children, whether they choose a hot meal or a packed lunch, eat together in the hall. We enjoy premises that are of a high standard as a result of the considerable financial investment that has been made in the refurbishment of the school. We have created six new classrooms, a computer suite and extensive play facilities which include two new netball courts and purpose built outdoor shelters. We have a purpose-built home for our nursery, which, with its excellent staff and established reputation, provides a service second to none for pre-school children. We have a Hearing Impaired Department that provides excellent support for up to 12 children who are deaf or hearing impaired, all of whom are integrated into the mainstream classes to the benefit of all the pupils in the school. (See page 20 for more details). We run a wide range of additional activities that give pupils the chance to participate in sporting, musical and creative pursuits in addition to their general education. Our pupils benefit from the high standard of outdoor facilities and beautiful grounds. The tremendous opportunities that Highworth Combined School offers have appealed to so many parents that the school has been oversubscribed for many years. 9

10 Our Aims School Ethos It is important that a school knows what it is trying to achieve and has firm ideas about how it is going to accomplish its ambitions. At Highworth the staff and governors have very clear aims. Academically we are trying: to achieve the highest possible academic standards; to enable every child to achieve his or her full potential; to help each child to develop a sense of self-confidence, self-motivation and self-esteem, and to achieve personal fulfilment. We do this by: providing a high quality education which has a firm foundation in the basics of Literacy and Numeracy, which teaches the whole range of the National Curriculum subjects to the highest standards and which also allows the development of a sense of aesthetic awareness; having a structured teaching programme that includes monitoring and assessment so that each child's needs are identified and met in an appropriate way; providing homework for all children suitable to their age and abilities; showing children that they all have skills and talents and that they are all important. Within the school we want: to create an environment that is happy and secure, caring and well disciplined, stimulating and inspiring; to instil a sense of partnership whereby everyone values and respects everyone else and supports and helps each other; the highest standards of courtesy and consideration for others and a sense of pride in ourselves and what we stand for. We do this by having: a behaviour policy which rewards children who behave well and deals firmly and fairly with behaviour which is unacceptable; a good system of pastoral support; a school uniform worn by all children. In our relations outside the school we: are strongly committed to valuing everyone irrespective of their background and to treating everyone equally regardless of their gender, race, creed or colour; intend to use the talents and skills of all members of the school - staff, governors, parents and pupils - for the advantage of the school as a whole; want to build a partnership with parents for the good of the children; believe that we, as a school, are but a part of the local community and that we must build links with those other parts for the benefit of all. 10

11 We do this by: regular communication; providing opportunities for involvement and encouragement to take up those opportunities; attempting to reach out to the community in the hope that our attempts will be reciprocated. We want to educate our children so that they are well prepared to play a role in the multicultural society that exists in our country today. We want them to know themselves and to want to understand others. Behaviour The school is proud of the very high standard of behaviour of its pupils. Key to this is a comprehensive rewards system which operates effectively at all levels. School rules are kept to a minimum and centre on safety requirements and consideration for others. Sanctions against misbehaviour are appropriate to the misdemeanour and they DO NOT include corporal punishment. Our Behaviour Policy has an emphasis on encouraging everyone to behave in a manner suitable not only for school but also for life. It is made clear to everyone what is expected of them and what will be the outcome of any failure to act in accordance with the policy. Bullying occurs from time to time in all schools. Staff are aware of what to look for and are constantly alert for signs of a problem. Any incident is swiftly and firmly dealt with using the guidelines laid down in our comprehensive Anti-Bullying Policy. All pupils at Highworth know what behaviour is unacceptable. Homework Homework is set in progressive amounts for all children attending the school, varying considerably depending on the age and ability of the child. We believe that homework is beneficial for several reasons as it: allows the development of good individual study habits and the skills of personal organisation; helps to consolidate, reinforce and supplement school learning; fosters an enthusiasm for the acquisition of knowledge; provides an opportunity to involve parents in the learning process of their children. Children at the lower end of the school are expected to spend at least 10 minutes each night (including weekends) sharing their school reading book with a parent. Slightly older children are required to practise spellings and multiplication tables. 11

12 At the upper end of the school there is a gradual increase in the number and kind of homework assignments. Parents are informed of their child's homework schedule and we ask them to give support and encouragement. Homework is seen as a positive tool and is not used as a means of punishment. However, a child who fails to finish work in class may be asked to finish it at home in addition to their regular homework. Homework is not given during the holidays except for Year 2 and Year 6 at Easter. Nightly Weekly* Totals Year 1 10 mins Reading Spellings & Number bonds 15 mins each* Assignment 1 x 15 mins* Year 2 10 mins Reading Spellings & Number bonds 15 mins each* Assignment 1 x 20 mins* Reading 70 mins Other 45 mins Reading 70 mins Other 50 mins Year 3 10 mins Reading Spellings & Tables 15 mins each* Assignment 1 x 30 mins* Year 4 10 mins Reading Spellings & Tables 20 mins each* Assignment(s) 30 mins* Year 5 10 mins Reading Spellings & Tables 20 mins each * Assignment(s) 40 mins* Year 6 10 mins Reading Spellings & Tables 20 mins each* Assignment(s) 50 mins* Reading 70 mins Other 60 mins Reading 70 mins Other 70 mins Reading 70 mins Other 80 mins Reading 70 mins Other 90 mins Communications We give a high priority to keeping parents informed about what is going on in the school, whether it directly concerns their child or not. Class teachers update our website each Monday with news and information about the coming week. The Headteacher produces a monthly newsletter, which is sent home to parents and which can also be accessed on the school website at: In the interval between newsletters, important information is sent home in letters to parents. In addition to the pupils annual reports and formal parent consultations, all staff are happy to talk to parents at a mutually convenient time. The Headteacher and his Deputy are both readily available to discuss parental concerns. 12

13 Sports At Highworth our sports aims are: to help pupils to enjoy their sport so they have the best possible opportunity to gain the full physical, mental and social benefits that sport can confer on those who take part in it. to include individual and team sports in the PE curriculum as required by the National Curriculum. to promote extra-curricular sport with our football, and netball teams, as well as a range of clubs. To help achieve these aims we have: a well-equipped hall with a good selection of PE apparatus and games equipment. two netball courts located in the playgrounds. two large school fields suitable for football and athletics, cross-country running, cricket, hockey and tag rugby. Swimming Swimming is a compulsory part of the curriculum for Key Stage 2 children, with certain levels of achievement expected. At present our children go swimming when they are in Year 4. We use the pool at the Handy Cross Sports Centre. Our Policies Highworth, in common with most schools, has a policy for almost every aspect of formal school life and therefore these are far too numerous to be included in this Prospectus. Many will be available on our website but if you would like to view any of the school's policy documents, please make a request to the school secretary. 13

14 School Uniform In order to discourage competition in dress, maintain standards of appearance and provide sensible work wear, it is expected that all children attending Highworth School will wear school uniform. Nursery children are also encouraged to wear uniform. Exact details of the school uniform and regulations regarding shoes are given below. Sweatshirts and polo shirts, with the school logo, and school ties are available from PMG Schoolwear, 5 Church Square, High Wycombe. Other items, as specified on the table overleaf, can be purchased from any major retailer. The wearing of Hijab is permitted for religious observance. Hijab should be either black or white, close fitting (not long and flowing) and with no fringe so that it is suitable for both normal school activities and PE activities. THIS IS FOR THE SAFETY OF THE PUPIL. A sample is available to view in school. Jewellery and Earrings Governors have decided that the wearing of jewellery in school is not permitted, with the exception of wristwatches. Earrings may not be worn at school. They represent a safety hazard. This policy is in keeping with the advice of the Buckinghamshire County Council Health and Safety Group. Mobile Telephones Mobile telephones are not allowed in school. Parents are asked to ensure that their child does not bring a mobile telephone into school. 14

15 Uniform Boys Girls School Uniform Winter Summer Winter Summer Grey Skirt OR Tunic Red and White Striped/Checked Dress Grey/Black Tailored Trousers* Grey/Black Tailored Shorts* White Blouse White Shirt Red OR White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt OR Cardigan OR Pullover Grey/White Shalwar or Grey/Black Trousers Sensible School Shoes (Black) Sandals (Black or Brown or Navy Blue) PE Uniform White Tee Shirt Black Shorts OR Black Leotard OR Black Divided Skirt Plimsolls or Trainers * Tracksuit bottoms, jeans, casual shorts and Lycra cycling shorts are not permitted Both boys and girls must wear a white collared shirt and tie with a V-neck sweatshirt, cardigan or pullover. Only crew neck sweatshirts or pullovers may be worn without a tie. Shoes The following regulations apply to all children. Sandals must have a strap around the back and be appropriate for a school environment. Boots, Doc Martens and shoes with high heels are not allowed. Trainers may only be worn for Games. 15

16 Security Statement The security of our children, staff, visitors and buildings is a high priority at Highworth. It is a collective responsibility and everybody has a part to play. An electronic security system has been installed to optimise the safety of the school site. Throughout the school day pupils remain in secure areas to which the public have no access. The only access point during school sessions is through the main school foyer, which is protected by a door entry and video system. Between 8:45am and 8:55am these security arrangements are relaxed to allow parents to deliver children to school. The same happens between 3:15pm and 3:35pm to allow parents to collect children. During these times the metal gates on our new school field and top playground will be unlocked, as will the metal gate leading onto the lower playground, and the metal gate allowing access to The Quadrangle. A CCTV system monitors the main access points to both our school and site. The vehicle entrance is only ever for use by staff and these gates will remain closed throughout the school day. Parents and visitors should only access the school through the pedestrian gates and are requested to make sure that these are firmly closed after use. All the children in the nursery and those up to and including Year 3 are handed directly to known adults at the end of the session in school. [You can help the school by keeping its records of telephone contacts up to date or informing the class teacher of any change in collection arrangements.] All classrooms have access to a telephone for emergency use both in and out of school hours. The school has a Security Policy which is available for inspection in the school office. All staff, governors and volunteers (including parent helpers and other regular visitors) are now required to have been successfully cleared by the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS). 16

17 Healthy Schools Highworth has been awarded Healthy Schools Status. This means that we have met the standards deemed necessary to make a significant difference to the health and achievement of the children in our school. We aim to create healthy and happy children who do better in learning and in life. The impact of Healthy Schools is based on a whole-school approach to physical and emotional well-being focused on four core themes: Personal, Social & Health Education (PSHE) Healthy Eating Physical Activity Emotional Health & Wellbeing The whole school approach involves working with children, parents and school staff and contributes to the physical and emotional development of all members of the school community. Here are just some of the things that we have introduced: Guidance for healthy lunchboxes and reward stickers or house points for children who eat healthily (our school food policy is available on request and has details about healthy lunchboxes). Easier access to water in class. We encourage children to bring a named water bottle to school throughout the year so that they don t get dehydrated. Children already have two hours PE per week. We have introduced even more voluntary physical activity clubs for children. A revised anti-bullying policy and information for parents and children. We have introduced feelings boxes in class. The provision of hot meals of a higher quality. In the summer of 2015 over 40,000 was invested in upgrading our school kitchen. As a result our hot meals are now both prepared and cooked on site, fresh each day. The result has been a significant improvement in quality and taste and an increase in the number of pupils benefitting from a nutritious lunch. 17

18 Facilities Location Highworth is situated on the northern edge of High Wycombe in attractive surroundings with extensive grounds. Νotwithstanding its tranquil setting, the school benefits from easy access to bus services. Grounds Highworth benefits from extensive grounds, which include: Two very large playing fields marked for both football and athletics; three hard surface playgrounds, marked with netball courts; three adventure areas (Reception, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2) thanks to Highworth s Friends; a dedicated outdoor area for our Early Years pupils; school grounds which, as well as their aesthetic qualities, lend themselves to nature study with their range and variety; the Quadrangle, a secure area of grass, shrubs and flower beds in which the school greenhouse is situated; In spring 2009 we began the creation of a memorial garden area which will contain a mixture of flowers, shrubs and plants which pupils will cultivate. When completed it will provide an area of seclusion and beauty in memory of staff and pupils who are no longer with us; 18

19 Computers We are committed to offering our pupils ICT facilities that will enable them to realise their potential in this important area of the curriculum. We have made a significant investment in upgrading or replacing all of our computer equipment. We are proud that, well before the national expectation, Highworth met the government target for computer provision. All the classrooms and the nursery have their own multimedia computers that are able to run the very latest programmes. They are all networked and have safe and fast access to the Internet. WiFi is available across our site and this enables both pupils and staff to capitalise on the benefits offered by both our banks of ipads and laptop computers. It is fully integrated into a network which allows pupils to access their work from any computer in our school. In 2013 we decided to replace the computers in our computer suite with portable devices which could be used throughout the school. This has allowed computers to be better integrated into the wider curriculum and freed the room to be used for specialised teaching groups. All classrooms have their own computer, interactive whiteboard and visualiser. These allow ICT to be fully integrated into the whole curriculum. 19

20 Library We have an excellent school Library comprising a wide range of both fiction and non-fiction books. We have a computerised loan system, enabling even our youngest pupils to check out library books. Each classroom has its own varied selection of books. The nursery has its own library of books suitable for encouraging pre-reading skills. All children are encouraged to borrow books for pleasure in addition to their school reading book. We have a selection of storysacks in our library which are used by staff. Our PTA has purchased many additional 33 storysacks which are available for nursery and reception parents to borrow and use at home. Music We have a wide range of instruments for the children to play. Several of our staff are instrumentalists and they make a special contribution to the musical life of the children. We offer a range of instrumental lessons including guitar and flute, from the Buckinghamshire County Council peripatetic music service. For a reasonable fee children may take part in this extracurricular tuition. The school choir and two recorder groups meet during lunch breaks. Music is important in our school, featuring in the Early Years, Lower and Upper school productions (annual events) and concert performances (both in and out of school). Our choir and instrumentalists have performed bi-annually at the Royal Albert Hall since Sound and Lighting Our school hall has specialist sound and lighting equipment, thanks to fundraising by Highworth s Friends. These are used to great effect at school concerts, assemblies, etc. 20

21 Hearing Impaired Department The Hearing Impaired Department (HID) caters for children with a range of hearing loss and learning takes place using the child s preferred mode of communication and language. These modes include English, Signed Supported English and BSL. All children are fully integrated into classes or in sets and receive specialist teaching from a teacher of the deaf according to need. When children enter the HID, their Statements of Special Educational Needs are maintained and reviewed at least annually according to the SEN Code of Practice. Their programmes are overseen by a qualified Teacher of the Deaf who asses the needs of children; provides specialist teaching; and works alongside and liaises with mainstream teachers. The Teacher of the Deaf role also includes adapting the curriculum, providing information, advice and deaf awareness to staff. A deaf tutor develops the signing communication skills of children and staff and also provides pastoral support to children according to need. In addition, two specialist speech and language therapists provide weekly therapy sessions that address the specific language and communication needs of each child. A skilled team of trained signing support communicators support the learning of children so that they are able to be fully included in all lessons across the curriculum as well as have access to all school activities. The HID works in partnership with audiologists from hospitals and cochlear implant centres to ensure children have maximum benefit from their hearing aids and cochlear implants. Where appropriate and of benefit, children use radio aids and sound field amplification in all classrooms. Audiological equipment is monitored and tested on a daily basis. Curriculum All children follow a broad and balanced curriculum which has been agreed by our school governors. One of the advantages of being a combined school and nursery is that the curriculum can be planned to operate continuously throughout a child's nursery and primary school career. 21

22 Additional Subjects Sex Education In a County Primary School, such as Highworth, it is up to the Governing Body to decide whether or not this should be part of the curriculum. Our governors believe that it should be taught. A programme has been devised which ensures continuity and progression throughout all the year groups in our school. The Sex Education programme is approved by the school governors and is given in such a manner as to encourage pupils to have due regard to moral considerations and the value of family life. Parents have the right to withdraw their child from certain aspects of the Sex Education programme provided. However, it is not possible to withdraw children from the biological aspects of human growth and reproduction that are taught as part of the science strand of the National Curriculum. Religious Education (RE) Αll schools must provide religious education for their pupils and it is one of the Governing Body's responsibilities to ensure that it is taught. At Highworth we follow the agreed Buckinghamshire County Council syllabus which reflects the fact that the religious traditions in Great Britain are, in the main, Christian whilst taking into account the teachings and practice of other major religions. An act of worship, which is broadly Christian in character but which takes account of the presence of non-christian children, takes place every day. Assemblies include bible stories, stories from other cultures, moral tales, human achievements, social value and behaviour. In the classroom children learn about festivals and special occasions, relationships and belonging, the natural world and places of worship in a multi-faith society. All parents have the right to withdraw their child from religious education classes and collective worship. Parents wishing to do so should contact the Headteacher. School Council The School Council is made up of children elected from each class from Year 1 through to Year 6. These children meet together every week to discuss ways in which they could improve the school. They are responsible for representing the ideas of the children in their own classes. These ideas are discussed at Class Council Meetings, which take place in all classes across the school each week The School Council system develops the children s sense of citizenship and how they can be responsible members of the school community. It develops the children s speaking and listening skills, their confidence and their problem solving skills as they seek to find solutions to any problems that they come across within the school. 22

23 Highworth After-School Club and Holiday Play Schemes Highworth After-School Club (HASC) is now a well-established facility available for the use of pupils of Highworth School. The Club seeks to provide childcare services for children of working parents. However, many parents/carers decide to use the Club as a social experience for their children, appreciating the benefits of the camaraderie and caring relationships that exist between the children. HASC is a self-sufficient organisation, run independently from Highworth School. Since 2003 HASC has also run a Breakfast Club which now opens from 7.45am to offer a nourishing breakfast and care before school starts. Children are taken from the Breakfast Club to their classrooms for the start of the school day. HASC has also operated holiday schemes during school holidays, open to pupils from other local schools as well as Highworth. This provision was established in line with Government wishes to expand 'wrap around care' for working parents. HASC is located in the 27th High Wycombe Sea Scout Headquarters, within the school grounds. Open Monday to Friday from 3.20pm-5.30pm. The Club is available for all pupils of the main school between the ages of four and eleven. Pupils from reception to Year 3 are collected from their class teacher by a member of the After School Club staff. The Club provides a range of stimulating activities, in addition to free play. The children are offered a snack and drinks. The Highworth After School Club and Play Scheme are OFSTED registered and have had two successful OFSTED reports. The Club aims are: To provide a wide range of stimulating activities and play opportunities for the children in a safe and secure environment. To work in an empowering way enabling children to learn to make their own decisions and to take responsibility for their own actions. CONTACT DETAILS To book a place or to make any enquiries, call the HASC helpline on or visit the Club between 3.00pm and 5.30pm. To challenge stereotypes and anti-social behaviour through activities, resources and by example. To encourage children to express themselves in a positive and assertive manner. To raise children's self-esteem through encouragement, support and praise and by valuing them for whom they are. To ensure that all children feel able to participate. 23

24 Administrative Matters School Organisation Classes are balanced by ability, gender and race. Parallel classes work co-operatively, following a common curriculum. We operate a "setting" system for Numeracy and Literacy from Years 2 to 6 where pupils from parallel classes are grouped according to their performance. Pupil Records Highworth has a comprehensive record system. The records of individual children are formally discussed with parents at three parents' evenings each year (one each term) and teachers are also happy to discuss a child's progress by appointment at any time throughout the year. Written reports are sent home annually (towards the end of the summer term). Parents are able to see any records that the school keeps on their child by arrangement with the Headteacher. Access to Information By law the Headteacher must arrange for parents to have access to a range of documents including: Schemes of work; Syllabuses; Inspection reports about the school; DFE circulars; Copies of Statutory Instruments (where available); Documents containing information about the performance of schools in the area; All Schools are subject to the Data Protection Act and the school has published its provisions under the act. A full copy can be found on our Website. It includes details of the charges made for the provision of certain documents. Absences and Leave of Absence Forms Schools are required to keep accurate attendance statistics and publish figures for both authorised and unauthorised absences. For this reason it is important that, if a child is away from school, a note is sent on his or her return giving the reason for the absence. An unexplained absence is registered as an unauthorised absence, whilst an absence for which the school has received an explanation is an authorised absence. 24

25 The Governing Body will not authorise holidays during school time. Leave of absence is only granted in very exceptional circumstances, because of the negative impact such absences have on academic progress. In such instances, parents should complete a Leave of Absence Form at least two weeks in advance so that the application can be considered by the Governing Body. Forms can be obtained from the secretary's office. Parents should note that if a period of unauthorised absence exceeds ten days, steps could be taken to remove the pupil from the School Roll. At Highworth, we are proactive in trying to improve levels of attendance and we have regular meetings with our school's Educational Welfare Officer who monitors the attendance of individual pupils and who visits the parents of pupils whose absences are a cause for concern. Term Dates (For Pupils) Open on morning of: Close at end of afternoon of: Autumn Term 2015 Monday 7 th September Friday 23rd October Monday 2 nd November Friday 18 th December Spring Term 2016 Tuesday, 5 th January Friday 12 th February Monday 22 nd February Thursday 24 th March Summer Term 2016 Tuesday 12 th April Friday 27 th May Monday 6 th June Thursday 21 st July Staff training days: Wednesday 2 nd September 2015 Thursday 3 rd September 2015 Friday 4 th September 2015 Monday 4 th January 2016 Monday 11 th April 2016 Additional Closure (Polling Day) Thursday 5 th May

26 Session Times and Arrangements Start and finish times* NURSERY Reception KS1 (Y1 - Y2)* KS2 (Y3 - Y6)* 8:45am - 11:45am or 12:30pm - 3:30pm Autumn Term 8:55am - 12:00pm and 1:15pm - 3:20pm 8:55am - 12:00pm and 1:15pm - 3:20pm 8:55am - 12:15pm and 1:15pm - 3:20pm *At the start of the day, all full-time pupils should go directly to their classrooms between 8.45 and 8.55am Delivery and Collection Arrangements We expect all children in the nursery and in reception to Year 3 to be brought to school and collected at the end of the day, promptly at 3.20pm, by a responsible adult i.e. someone over 16 years of age. Parents must inform either the school secretary or the class teacher if there is to be a change in the person who normally collects the child. Children in the upper school (Year 4 - Year 6) may go to and from school unaccompanied if their parents so wish. All children, except those in the nursery, must arrive at school between 8:45am and 8:55am. The school day ends at 3.20 for all pupils except those in our nursery and all children must be collected promptly. The school cannot accept responsibility for pupils prior to 8:45am when the staff begin supervision. If parents have to bring a child to school before 8:45am, we would encourage them to use the Breakfast Club, the details of which are given on page 22. Children who arrive after the bell has rung at 8:55am are late and must report to the school office. Parents who are collecting from or returning pupils to school during the school day MUST report to the school office to sign them both in and out. This is essential to comply with fire regulations. It is assumed that all children will stay at school at lunchtime. Anyone wishing to take their child home to lunch must inform the school in writing. 26

27 Transition at 11 plus In common with all other schools in Buckinghamshire, the options for Year 6 leavers are influenced by the 11+ Examinations. To facilitate smooth and effective transfer from Highworth, the school is actively involved in liaison with a number of local schools - both Grammar Schools and Upper Schools. The Headteacher holds a meeting for the parents of pupils in Year 5 to explain the 11+ testing process prior to it starting. This meeting is held annually in the summer term. Buckinghamshire County Council provides additional information to the parents of all pupils in Year 6. Complaints Procedure Any parent who is unhappy about an aspect of their child s schooling or who wishes to make a complaint should, in the first instance, talk to the class teacher. Most problems are sorted out at this level. If still not happy, the parent s next step should be to make an appointment with the Headteacher. Both Graeme Kilner and his Deputy Head operate an open door policy and are happy to talk to parents and listen to any worries they have. Usually such a meeting will be enough to resolve any issues. Where this is not the case, parents should refer to the schools Complaints Policy, a copy of which is available from the school office or on the school website. 27

28 Report from the Chair of Governors Emma Starling Over the past year our television news and newspapers have been filled with stories of the increasing diversity in our society, both political, economic and religious and the negative consequences of such diversity. In an uncertain world, the staff and pupils of Highworth come together in a safe and protective environment where the differences between people can be celebrated rather than feared. OFSTED visited the school in November 2014 and commented that Highworth is a tight-knit community which prides itself on the school s racial harmony and every opportunity is taken to teach the pupils how to value and respect each other. The Governors were delighted that the work of staff and pupils alike resulted in OFSTED rating the behaviour and safety of pupils as excellent. I believe that the early school years are the most important for our children. The pupils of Highworth come from diverse backgrounds but the positive and supportive environment created by the staff enables them to flourish together and make good progress before they leave. The pupils are able to make the most of the fantastic opportunities the hard-working, dedicated staff at the school provide for them. Whenever I visit the school, I am always struck by the enthusiasm of the staff and pupils whether they are working together in their classrooms, performing in a class assembly or taking part in the wide range of extra-curricular activities offered. Recent highlights for me include witnessing the progress children in key stage 1 have made in reading, a Comic Relief assembly where pupils from all year groups took part and watching the choir perform with other schools from Buckinghamshire at the Albert Hall.. 28

29 What Do Governors Do? Governors are responsible for establishing the long-term strategy, the financial management and the ethos of a school. They also have responsibility for appointing staff, particularly the Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher. They also act as a "critical friend" to the school, offering constructive criticism and advice, using their individual skills to achieve the aims of the school. The Governing Body meets once a term to carry out formal business, to receive reports from committees and to ratify their decisions. Most of the work is delegated to committees, which have authority to take decisions on behalf of the Governing Body. The Curriculum Committee has a monitoring and advisory role. These groups meet at least once a term. In addition, there are various panels to conduct interviews to appoint staff, to consider appeals from staff or to consider pupil discipline issues. These are drawn up as and when required. From time to time additional working parties may be set up for specific purposes. All Governors are encouraged to visit the school regularly and to report back to the full Governing Body. Highworth from the air 29

30 How to Contact a Governor All governors are very happy to talk to parents, so please do not hesitate to contact any of us if there is anything you would like to ask or to tell us. Teacher governors and many of the parent governors are easily found in the playground or in school but others can be contacted by letter. Just hand it in to the school office and it will be forwarded. The Chairman of Governors is Mrs Emma Starling and the Vice-Chairman is Mr Mike Ferguson. Both can be contacted through the school office. The Clerk to the Governors, Mrs M. Peel, can be contacted at the Buckinghamshire Learning Trust. Becoming a Parent Governor - Elections Parent governor elections are normally held every four years. Everyone who has a child in the school or the nursery is eligible to stand as a candidate. Everyone who has a child in the school or the nursery is eligible to vote in an election - but each person only has one vote irrespective of the number of children that they have at the school. Voting is by secret ballot. A candidate must have a child on the school roll at the time of the election but a parent governor does not have to stand down when he or she no longer has a child at the school. He or she may choose to stay on until the end of the four-year term of office. A parent governor may stand for re-election at the end of four years as long as he or she still has a child who attends the school. 30

31 Facilities for the Disabled Meeting Our Obligations As a Community School, we are bound by the County's Admissions Policy, which ensures that there is no discrimination against pupils with disabilities. We strive to ensure that children with disabilities are treated on equal terms with other pupils and we provide facilities to help with access to the school. Highworth is proud of its Hearing-Impaired Department and while this only caters for ten pupils, there is an excellent range of specialist facilities for the hearing impaired, including fire alarms that flash as well as ring. Staff with a hearing impaired child in their class wear radio microphones so that they can be heard more clearly. Signing Assistants support the signing children in the classroom to maximise their access to the curriculum. In addition several members of staff are learning to sign. We also have special pieces of equipment to assist children with impaired sight. At Highworth we value our specialist department and are proud of its success in integrating pupils, both socially and academically. All disabled pupils are fully integrated into the school. The hearing impaired children are only withdrawn for separate support when the lesson is of such a nature that they would not be able to gain from it. There are signed songs and stories to aid understanding among the rest of the children and deaf awareness is a part of our PSHE course. For people with other disabilities, there are other modifications around the school although the design of the buildings does not make it an easy place to convert. There is a ramp to the main entrance and it would be possible for someone in a wheelchair to get to most areas of the school although, admittedly, by a rather circuitous route to avoid the internal stairs. We also have a toilet suitable for wheelchair bound visitors. During the last year we have improved the facilities which are available for people with disabilities and have achieved some of the aims of our Accessibility Plan. The County have completed their programme to install Sound Field reinforcement systems in all of our classrooms. We have also been able to incorporate a ramp in our new corridor extension, enabling wheelchair users to travel directly from the top playground to the hall and administration corridor. Although this is a significant improvement, there are still some classrooms which are not accessible to wheelchairs. Resolving this issue remains a priority. 31

32 Safeguarding Statement At Highworth School, the health, safety and wellbeing of every child are of paramount concern. We listen to our pupils and take seriously what they tell us. Our aim is that children will enjoy their time as pupils at this school. We want to work in partnership with parents to ensure that children achieve their full potential and make a positive contribution. On rare occasions our concern about a child may mean that we have to consult other agencies even before we contact parents. The procedures which we then follow have been laid down by the Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Board (BSCS) and the school has adopted a Child Protection Policy for the safety of all. Highworth s Child Protection Policy applies to all staff, governors and volunteers working in the school. There are five main elements: ensuring we practice safe recruitment in the checking the suitability of staff and volunteers to work with children; raising awareness of child protection issues and equipping children with the skills needed to keep them safe; developing and then implementing procedures for identifying and reporting cases, or suspected cases, of abuse; supporting pupils who have been abused in accordance with his/her agreed child protection plan; establishing a safe environment in which children can learn and develop. We recognise that, because of the day to day contact with children, school staff are well placed to observe the outward signs of abuse. The school will therefore: establish and maintain an environment where children feel secure, are encouraged to talk and are listened to; ensure children know that there are adults in the school whom they can approach if they are worried; include opportunities in the PSHE curriculum for children to develop the skills they need to recognise and stay safe from abuse. We will follow the procedures set out by the Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Board and take account of guidance issued by the Department for Education and Skills. Parents wanting to know more about our procedures or this policy should speak to the school s Designated Person for Child Protections or to their child s class teacher. 32

33 Sports Report PE and sport are an important part of primary education. Highworth is proud to be a part of the School Sport Co-ordinator Programme (SSCO), which uses local secondary schools to improve the status of PE by liaising and resourcing initiatives in primary schools and the local community. This has allowed us to access a range of opportunities for the pupils at Highworth. The school continues to have a good reputation for the range of sports and physical pursuits it offers, whilst organisers of the events we attend comment upon the tremendous sporting attitude of our pupils. During the last academic year we have been active members of the local netball and football leagues. As part of our work with the SSCO we have competed in various sports competitions including Hockey, Tag Rugby, Cricket, Basketball, Multi skills and Orienteering. Liaison with Parents At Highworth we believe that education is a partnership between home and school. If each partner plays its part the child will benefit. We place a strong emphasis on the role parents should play and encourage them to become involved in the school. Most importantly we ask parents to both encourage their children and to support the work of the school. All the staff make great efforts to encourage parents to play their part by listening to reading, making sure homework is done, talking to their children about what they do at school and so on. There are many ways in which parents can play a fuller role in the life of the school and we urge those who are interested to take advantage of the opportunities available. Why Should You Get Involved? Getting involved in the school itself can also help your child. It shows you are concerned and care about the school. It shows that you support what the teachers are doing and it helps your child to see that there is more to education than what goes on in the classroom. Not everyone has a lot of spare time but there are many ways in which you can get involved and probably everyone can find a way that suits them. If you have a skill to offer or some time to spare, talk to a teacher or one of the parents you know who is already helping and find out more. Life at this school is rich and varied with lots of exciting things happening and that is in no small part due to the enthusiasm and dedication of our parents. Join in if you can and you are guaranteed to find a great deal of satisfaction in being able to help make a difference. 33

34 How to Get Involved? A number of parents help out in the classroom either listening to reading or in a variety of other ways. This can be very enjoyable and, by being in the building, seeing the staff at work and getting to know both them and the children, you can gain a greater understanding of how your child is being educated. We can be very flexible and even if you can only spare an hour a week you will be very welcome. If you cannot spare time on a regular basis occasional help is often required, for example going on a school trip or helping at a special event like Sports Day. Just let your child s class teacher know when you can be available and you will be contacted when the time comes. Several parents are now helping with extra-curricular activities eg. some parents help with the Youth Club. If you would like to help at one of the existing clubs or help create a new one, talk to a member of staff. The school's PTA, Highworth's Friends, always welcomes new ideas for raising funds and offers of help. Just by coming along and supporting their events you will also be helping the school. Highworth's Friends Highworth s Friends is the PTA of Highworth Combined School. Anyone who has a child attending the nursery or school is a member. We fundraise for the extras that add to the school community. In the last few years we have funded adventure playgrounds, televisions, videos, picnic benches, a new cooker as well as funding regular items such as trophies and medals at the end of the school year. We fund raise through cake sales, summer fun day, Christmas bazaar, raffles, discos, etc. We are parents who want to encourage the school/home partnership and it s a great way to get to know other parents. We support the school in the best way we can by volunteering our time, which can be as much or as little as you can spare. If you can help for half an hour at the fun day, that is great and really appreciated but if you can spare more time that is great too! We are a registered charity and our AGM is held in the autumn term at which any one can stand for election to the organising committee. This is also an opportunity to question the existing committee about the way they have run the Association during the past year. 34

35 Lettings We regard the school s facilities as a community resource and are pleased to make it available to the organisations listed below. Monday Brownies 7:45 8:45 Zumba Fitness Tuesday 7:00 8:00 Zumba Fitness Wednesday Rainbows Brownies 7:45 8:45 Zumba Fitness FOR HIRE!!! The school premises are available for private hire and offer an attractive setting for parties, wedding receptions etc. If you are interested in hiring the hall, please contact the school bursar. 35

36 Index 11 Plus 27 Absence 24, 25 Leave of Absence 24, 25 Access 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 24, 31, 33 Additional subjects 22 Administration 31 Admission 8, 9 After School Club 23 Aims 10, 13, 23, 29, 31 Area 4, 5, 18, 19 Communications 12 Complaints 27 Computers 19 Delivery 26 Disability 31 Ethos 5, 10, 29 Examinations 27 Facilities 7, 9, 18, 19, 31, 35 Getting Involved 33, 34 Governors 5, 10, 14, 16, 22, 29, 30, 32 How to contact 30 Parent Governor 30 Grounds 7, 9, 18, 23 Hearing Impaired 7, 9, 21, 31 Holiday Play Scheme 23 Homework 10, 11, 12, 33 Information 12, 17, 21, 24, 27 Introduction 5, 6 Lettings 35 Liaison with Parents 33 Library 20 Lighting 20 Location 18 Music 20 National Curriculum 10, 13, 21, 22 Nursery 4, 7, 8, 9, 14, 16, 19, 20, 21, 26, 30, 34 Obligations 31 Organisation 11, 23, 24 Parents 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 32, 33, 34 Policies 13 Pupil Records 24 Religious Education 22 Safeguarding Statement 32 School Council 22 Security 16 Session Times 26 Sex Education 22 Sound 20, 21, 31 Sports 13, 33, 34 Swimming 13 Transition 27 Uniform 10, 14, 15 Earrings 14 Shoes 14, 15 36