Guidance LOANHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 Guidance LOANHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL HANDBOOK

2 Contents A message from the Head of Education Headteacher s message Establishment ethos, vision and values Establishment information Establishment security Establishment calendar Staff information Establishment improvement Curriculum 3-18 Assessment and reporting Policies and procedures Additional Support for Learning Transition Parental involvement Learning community Wider community links Other information Disclaimer 2

3 A Message from the Head of Education Thank you for taking the time to read this handbook. In writing the following pages, colleagues are attempting to do two things. The first is to provide you with the information you need so that your child can be given access to all of the services and facilities to which they are entitled. The second purpose is to seek and promote a genuine partnership with you as the main responsible adult in your child s life. Without that partnership it will not be possible for your daughter or son to take maximum advantage of their education and so to fulfil their potential. Quite simply, we want the best for your child in exactly the same way you do. My invitation to you is that should you have any doubts about your child s progress or their entitlement to a service, then you should not hesitate to contact the school or early childhood centre. You are entitled to an explanation of anything that is of concern to you and staff will be very pleased to assist you with an answer to any question you have. All we would ask is that you do this with the courtesy that you yourself would expect. I know your child will enjoy their time with us and they will learn and progress every day. However old your son or daughter, never be afraid to ask what they were doing today and whether they were having any difficulty or problem that we, or you, can help them with. By our working together in this way, I promise that your child will succeed and will have a great preparation for life. Kindest regards Alan Ward 3

4 Headteacher s message WELCOME TO LOANHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL I am delighted, as Head Teacher, to welcome you to Loanhead Primary School which has been serving the local community and providing a vibrant, high quality education for over one hundred years. This school handbook provides us with a very important tool to highlight and celebrate the amazing activities that take place at Loanhead. It is also an important method of communicating with parents, carers and visitors, as well as providing information on the various practices and procedures in our school. We are extremely proud of our pupils and our staff, and the positive atmosphere they create. We also take great pride in the fact that we have a happy, safe and inclusive school where we embrace equality and diversity and in which the children s voices are clearly heard in an atmosphere that encourages respect for all, as well as for the environment. I feel privileged to lead a team of professional, talented and committed staff who provide well-planned, organised and appropriate lessons and activities for the children in their care. We are committed to ensuring that every decision taken within the school is in the best interests of the children and that each person, pupil and staff member, is valued and is treated with respect and with dignity. We nurture the children in our care and our aim is to provide each child with every opportunity to achieve his or her maximum potential in a stimulating and attractive learning environment. To achieve this, we provide a curriculum which gives equal value to developing our children s academic, social and physical understanding. We want our children to be confident and secure, and to develop the ability to question and to discuss rationally. We also want them to apply themselves to the tasks with which they are presented and to develop the necessary skills, knowledge and attitude which will enable them to make a positive contribution to the society in which we live, and to ensure that they can function effectively in today s fast changing world. We strongly value the relationship we have with our parents/carers and others and recognise that effective partnerships are essential. We greatly appreciate and value the support our parents and carers give us and the role they play in enriching our children s education experiences. Derek Forsyth Head Teacher 4

5 Establishment ethos, vision and values Loanhead Primary School recognises the importance of the partnership between parents, carers, teachers, pupils and the wider community in achieving its aims which are to promote an inclusive educational environment. By developing the skills needed for life-long learning we encourage every child to reach their full potential. Working together we will provide a stimulating curriculum and create an ethos of the highest quality that will develop : Confident Individuals - Responsible Citizens Effective Contributors Successful Learners. School Values - RESPECTFUL TRUSTWORTHY RELIABLE KINDNESS INTEGRITY FRIENDSHIP Our school values have been created by children across the school and the Pupil Council. The importance of keeping our values and teaching their meaning is a regular feature of classwork and assemblies. Celebrating Success Positive behaviour and attitude to work is celebrated in class and at weekly assemblies with our successful point system with rewards. Star Writers are celebrated with a Sky s the Limit medal. The House System: RED - KAY BLUE - DEAN YELLOW - HOWARD GREEN - PIERSLAND Children sit at assembly in their classes. During the week House Cards are given out by all school staff for effort, behaviour and keeping the school values and golden rules. The weekly winning house is announced and celebrated in different ways; weekly, termly and at the end of the school year. 5

6 Establishment information Loanhead Primary School Telephone No: Dick Road Fax No: Kilmarnock KA1 3AP Website Address: School Hours School Starts 9.00 am Morning Break am am Lunch Break pm pm School Finishes 3.00 pm The main entrance to the school is at Loanhead Street where the reception and offices are located. All parents/carers and visitors to the school are asked to use this entrance. A Care facility is available. You can find out more information on this service at: In these days of more stringent measures everyone is asked to sign the visitors book and wear identification. Parents/carers who deliver/collect their children by car are asked to park with care and not to block entrances or prevent traffic hazards to users of the school. Loanhead Primary is a non-denominational, co-educational school. The present roll of 214 pupils is organised into nine classes. P1-20 pupils P5-29 pupils P2/1-18 pupils P6-22 pupils P3/2-25 pupils P7/6-23 pupils P4/3-22 pupils P7-25 pupils P4-30 pupils 6

7 Establishment information HOME / SCHOOL LINKS The school is open to parents/carers at any time. Parents/carers should not hesitate to contact the school about any matter concerning their child/children. Small problems can often be prevented from becoming major ones if prompt action and co-operation is sought by teacher and parents/carer. If wishing to talk to a teacher, parents/carers should first contact the Head Teacher. Parents/carers evenings are held twice a year. Any parents/carer wishing to come along and meet us before enrolling their child in January can do so. The parents/carers of children starting school for the first time meet in June when issues relevant to starting school and schemes of work discussed. A group of parent helpers come into school regularly to provide valuable assistance with a variety of activities. Volunteers for this are always warmly welcomed. New legislation requires however, that all adults working with children are Disclosure Scotland checked. The school can arrange this if necessary. Your child will regularly bring information home in their school bag. Please encourage them to pass these on. REMEMBER TO CHECK BAGS. The school also issues news updates electronically via the school website: Should you wish to comment on or make a complaint about any aspect of our provision, you should contact the establishment in the first instance. Our aim is to resolve as many complaints as possible at the first point of contact. 7

8 Establishment information We are a Health Promoting School! The Schools (Health Promotion and Nutrition) Act 2007 sets out in detail the National Nutritional Food Standards. School Meals in East Ayrshire offer nutritionally balanced well presented food in an environment that is sensitive to the needs of pupils. It offers a good lunchtime experience with an important break in the day away from the classroom, while still being in the safety of the school. We believe that school meals should be an interesting and enjoyable time. Our philosophy is to help children towards a good diet by providing an attractive and interesting range of wholesome cooked food made from excellent fresh quality ingredients, and there is virtually no processed food offered or used at any stage in the process. Many of the foods used are sourced from local food providers within East Ayrshire. Menus and other information about the school meals service in East Ayrshire schools can be found at: In addition, menus and other information are provided each year for pupils and parents. The arrangements for meals and the collection of money is managed as part of the school s management arrangements. Medically prescribed diets and meals for ethnic and religious requirements can be provided. Children have their packed lunch with their peers and are supervised in the school assembly hall. The management of the Catering Service in our school is provided by the Council through Onsite Services in conjunction with the Head Teacher. As a health promoting school, we try to encourage children to eat healthily at snack times and lunchtimes and would urge parents/carers to support this. Advice can be obtained from school. We encourage children to drink water during the teaching day and they are permitted to bring bottled water to school for this purpose. Water bottles can be refilled from drinking water taps in the boys and girls toilets. 8

9 Establishment information The school operates a cash cafeteria system whereby children who pay for their meals do so daily in the Dining Hall. Children in P1, P2 & P3 currently do not pay for school meals. Children who are entitled to free meals receive a daily ticket which entitles them to food up to the value of Pupils who bring packed lunches eat their meals in our school assembly hall. Parents/carers are asked to inform the Head Teacher about any special diet requirements prescribed for medical reasons. As a number of children in school suffer from a nut allergy, a potentially fatal condition, we ask all parents/carers that they do not include nuts or nut based products in their children s snacks. Children, apart from those who travel home for lunch, are NOT permitted to leave school premises at lunchtime, for example to visit the local shops. 9

10 Establishment security The school gates and playground are supervised by school staff. For security reasons, school doors will be locked whilst the school is in session. Parents/Carers and visitors should enter the building by the main entrance at Loanhead Street. They will be directed to the school office where they should sign in the visitors book. On leaving the building they should again call at the office to sign out. 10

11 Establishment calendar SCHOOL HOLIDAYS / IN-SERVICE DAYS TERM 1 In-service Day 1 Monday 17 August 2015 Pupils return Tuesday 18 August 2015 Local Holiday Friday 18 September 2015 Local Holiday Monday 21 September 2015 School Closes Friday 9 October 2015 TERM 2 In-service Day 2 Monday 19 October 2015 Pupils Return Tuesday 20 October 2015 School Closes Wednesday 23 December 2015 at 2.30pm TERM 3 Teachers/pupils return Thursday 7 January 2016 School Closes Friday 12 February 2016 In-Service Day 3 Thursday 18 February 2016 In-Service Day 4 Friday 19 February 2016 Pupils Return Monday 22 February 2016 School Closes Thursday 24 March 2016 Pupils return Tuesday 29 th March 2016 School Closes Friday 1 April

12 Establishment calendar TERM 4 Pupils Return Monday 18 April 2016 May Day Monday 2 May 2016 In-Service Day 5 Friday 27 May 2016 Local Holiday Monday 30 May 2016 School Closes Thursday 30 June 2016 at 1pm SESSION TERM 1 In-Service Day 1 Tuesday 16 August 2016 Pupils return Wednesday 17 August

13 Staff information STAFF Head Teacher - Mr D. Forsyth Responsible for the strategic management of the whole school and is the Additional Support Needs Co-ordinator. Depute Head Teacher - Mrs E. Waugh Remit includes pastoral care and curriculum support to all pupils, with particular input and expertise in managing early years classes. As Literacy Co-ordinator Mrs Waugh provides additional support to early years pupils and co-ordinates whole school literacy strategy and development. Principal Teacher - Mrs M. McArthur Remit includes Maths, Enterprise and Health Co-ordinator for P4-7. Principal Teacher - Mrs A. Milne ICT Co-ordinator, Manager of the school website/blog, Maths and Health Co-ordinator for P1-3. Chartered Teacher - Ms S. McCulloch Leads P4-7 music for assemblies and is our Expressive Arts Co-ordinator. 13

14 Staff information Teaching Staff of 13 is currently as follows: Mrs D. Taylor P1 Mrs C. Halbert P5 Miss J. Ainsworth P2/1 Mrs L. McPhee P6 TBC P3/2 Mrs C. Speirs P7/6 Mrs V. McGeoch P4/3 Mrs M. McArthur P7 Mrs A. Milne P4 Mrs M. Vallely Mrs S. Kirkwood 2 1/2 days temporary Network Support SUPPORT STAFF In addition to our permanent staff, the school has the services of various personnel if and when the need arises. Such personnel include Instrumental Instructors, Teachers of English as a second language, Learning Support Specialists and Speech Therapists. Senior Clerical Assistant Mrs S.Vincent Clerical Assistant Mrs S.Bomphray (part time) Classroom Assistants Mr S. Taylor Miss L. Slaven 14

15 Establishment improvement The establishment Standard and Quality Report is available on request to any interested parent. It contains a full version of the school s progress over the last session. A copy of our Improvement Plan and Standards and Quality Report can be obtained from the Office. Our improvement plan outlines our priorities for the coming session. These include:- Development of STEM Dyslexia Friendly Classrooms and Achievement of Dyslexia Friendly School Award Health & Well Being. Our improvement plans are considered in collaboration with the Parent Council. The Head Teacher provides information to the Parent Council about the establishment s systems and procedures and assists the school with surveying parents views. 15

16 Curriculum 3-18 At Loanhead Primary School we are enabling all young people to become:- SUCCESSFUL LEARNERS CONFIDENT INDIVIDUALS With Enthusiasm and motivation for learning. Determination to reach high standards of achievement. Openness to new thinking and ideas. And able to: Use literacy, communication and numeracy skills. Use technology for learning. Think creatively and independently. Learn independently and as part of a group. Make reasoned evaluations. Link and apply different types of learning in new situations. With Self respect. A sense of physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Secure values and beliefs. Ambition. And able to: Relate to others and manage themselves. Pursue a healthy and active lifestyle. Be self aware. Develop and communicate their own beliefs and view of the world. Live as independently as they can. Assess risk and take informed decisions. Achieve success in different areas of activity. RESPONSIBLE CITIZENS EFFECTIVE CONTRIBUTORS With Respect for others. Commitment to participate responsibly in political economic, social and cultural life. And able to: Develop knowledge and understanding of the world and Scotland s place in it. Understand different beliefs and cultures. Make informed choices and decisions. Evaluate environmental, scientific and technological issues. Develop informed, ethical views of complex issues. With An enterprising attitude Resilience. Self-reliance. And able to: Communicate in different ways and in different settings. Work in partnership and in teams. Take the initiative and lead. Apply critical thinking in new contexts. Create and develop. Solve problems. 16

17 Curriculum 3-18 Bringing learning to life and life to learning Curriculum for Excellence is the education system in Scotland. It includes nurseries, schools, colleges and community learning from 3 to 18 and beyond. The table below matches the five curriculum levels to stages of learning generally applicable, with flexibility (for example, for young people who are particularly able and/or have additional support needs). Level Early First Second Third and Fourth Stage The pre-school years and P1, or later for some. To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some. To the end of P7, but earlier or later for some. S1 to S3, but earlier for some. The fourth level broadly equates to Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 4. The fourth level experiences and outcomes are intended to provide possibilities for choice and young people s programmes will not include all of the fourth level outcomes. Senior phase S4 to S6, and college or other means of study. From pre-school to the end of S3 (3-15) young people will experience a broad general education which is designed to enable each child or young person to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor. The broad general education will include all of the Experiences and Outcomes across all curriculum areas up to and including the third level. Throughout all learning, prime importance is given to literacy, numeracy and thinking skills; skills for learning, life and work; an understanding of society, the world and Scotland s place in it, and an active and healthy lifestyle. A range of teaching methods and contexts for learning is used, including active and enterprising learning, which encourage young people to become enquiring; learning across the curriculum which helps young people make links between subjects, and learning outside classrooms in the outdoors and in the community, which gives opportunities for learners to deepen their learning in real-life contexts. Most learners will progress into the fourth level in many aspects of their learning before the end of S3, laying strong foundations for more specialised learning. 17

18 Curriculum 3-18 Information about how the curriculum is structured and curriculum planning:- Curriculum for Excellence emphasises that assessment is an integral part of day-to-day teaching and learning. Learners progress will be closely monitored by staff, who reflect with them on their strengths, learning needs and next steps, and take action based on this. Learners themselves will be increasingly involved in this process, as they develop the skills needed to be able to make effective judgements on their own learning; skills that will be important to them throughout life. Testing will continue to be part of the framework of assessment, providing additional evidence of what learners know, understand and are able to do, and helping teachers plan learning experiences which are motivating and challenging. (learners) (parents and carers) (information on qualifications) (standards, inspections) (teaching practice and support) (share ideas and questions about education) (real-life examples) 18

19 Curriculum 3-18 RELIGIOUS, HEALTH AND MORAL EDUCATION Religious Education is taught at all stages and children take part in the religious festivals of Christianity. The study of other religions allows children to understand the main religions of the world. A meaningful coherent, structured approach enables children to develop values which will help make informed choices in their lives and to treat other people with respect and tolerance. Loanhead is a non-denominational school in which religious observance is that of the Church of Scotland. Parents have the right to withdraw children from religious education and services. If they wish to do so, the Head Teacher should be informed in writing. Regular assemblies are held for the Infant Departments and Upper School. The School Chaplain, Rev. David Cameron of New Laigh Kirk, will participate with the staff and pupils in these assemblies as well as giving pastoral care to staff, pupils and their families. A programme of visiting guests from charities and other organisations enhance our assemblies with presentations on important moral, local and wider community issues. Parents from ethnic minority religious communities may request that their children be permitted to be absent from school in order to celebrate recognised religious events. Only written requests detailing the proposed arrangements will be considered. Appropriate requests will be granted on not more than three occasions in any one school session and the pupil noted as an authorised absentee in the register. Our school implements the Circle Time approach which provides a framework for the development of a whole school policy on raising self-esteem and positive behaviour. Every member of the school community makes a valuable contribution to the approach and as a result, feels ownership and commitment. We implement structured clubs and have developed School Values which inform and develop the ethos of our school. 19

20 Curriculum 3-18 HEALTH Our extensive Health Education Programme aims to support pupils in their development of physical, social and emotional health. Pupils will be encouraged to make informed choices and decisions to ensure a healthy lifestyle. Many health related and enterprising activities are planned as part of the school calendar. We also encourage positive relationships between school, home and the wider community. A range of health professionals from the community come into school regularly to support the school in developing our health curriculum. Drugs and Alcohol Awareness Raising In line with East Ayrshire s drive to improve drug and alcohol related problems, a programme has been developed and is gradually being introduced for all stages in primary schools. ORAL HEALTH The Childsmile Programme s aim is to improve the oral health of children in Scotland and it is funded by the Scottish Government. The Childsmile Practice Programme promotes good oral health from birth. The health and development of all newborn children is assessed by the Health Visitor/Public Health Nurse at 6-8 weeks, with this assessment including the identification for potential oral health problems. If/when the Health Visitor s assessment identifies that extra support may be required, the family are offered home visits from a Dental Health Support Worker who provides information, oral health advice and help to arrange registration and appointment visits to the family s local Childsmile Dental Practice. This programme of support continues and integrates with the Childsmile Nursery and School Programmes. 20

21 Curriculum 3-18 NATIONAL DENTAL INSPECTION PROGRAMME Each school year, all P1 and all P7 pupils will be offered a dental inspection in school, by a dentist. This inspection is an important assessment of a child s dental health at the start and end of primary school as it provides parents with information to ensure that they and their child are receiving all the support they need to maintain their child s dental health and take the necessary steps to remedy any problems that may have arisen. There is also a need to monitor the child populations dental health at national and regional or local levels so that reliable dental health information is available for planning and evaluating initiatives directed towards improvements. The National Dental Inspection Programme fulfils both of these functions by providing an essential source of information for monitoring changes in the dental health of Scottish primary school children. MODERN LANGUAGES Learning to communicate in a foreign language helps children to develop intercultural awareness and to understand the need to act with empathy and responsibility towards others. French is formally taught in P6 and P7 in Loanhead Primary School. ICT The use of ICT is integrated into many areas of the curriculum. As well as having a computer suite timetabled for classes we have a mobile Class in a Box of additional laptops timetabled for ongoing use by teachers and pupils. Staff and pupils use the internet readily to enhance learning. All classes have a Smart Board for interactive teaching and learning. 21

22 Curriculum 3-18 OUTDOOR LEARNING All children and young people will have regular opportunities to learn outdoors both in the school grounds in and around our outdoor classroom and in the local community. Parents will consent to this regular localised outdoor learning once at the beginning of session, with medical and emergency contacts being requested. Thereafter parents will be notified of the venues and dates of off site visits, in order that pupils come adequately prepared. However it is the parents responsibility to inform the school if emergency contacts or medical conditions change or they don t wish their child to participate in a visit. ECO SCHOOL Loanhead is an Eco School and earned a Green Flag in Every class in the school has a particular Eco Schools responsibility which contributes to our Eco Schools Programme. PLAYGROUND DEVELOPMENT With thanks to the Lottery Fund and funds raised by parents, Loanhead has an outdoor classroom, trim track and increased play facilities for everyday use. During this session, a programme of structured outdoor learning will be used to make best use of these exciting new resources. 22

23 Curriculum 3-18 EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The school welcomes the support of parents and members of the community in extra-curricular activities. We offer a range of activities at various times throughout the year. These include dancing, art and craft, football, basketball, badminton and Sports Hall activities organised by our Active Schools Coordinator and Kilmarnock College. These activities take place after school and are subject to the availability of staff and other trained adults to take them. HOMEWORK Homework is given to reinforce work already taught in school. It should take no more than minutes. Parents are asked to check and sign children s diaries and see that homework is done carefully and neatly. In reading children will have oral reading to practice at home, with younger children spending more time on this than older ones. Homework is provided for a number of different reasons:- To provide more practice and consolidation of work done in school To encourage each child to become an independent learner To allow parents to share in their child s learning To have a mutually acceptable contract between child, parent and school. 23

24 Assessment and reporting CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE Curriculum for Excellence emphasises that assessment is an integral part of day-to-day teaching and learning. Learners progress will be closely monitored by staff, who reflect with them on their strengths, learning needs and next steps, and take action based on this. Learners themselves will be increasingly involved in this process, as they develop the skills needed to be able to make effective judgments on their own learning; skills that will be important to them throughout life. Testing will continue to be part of the framework of assessment, providing additional evidence of what learners know, understand and are able to do, and helping teachers plan learning experiences which are motivating and challenging. Children who may have additional support needs, or who require a Co-ordinated Support Plan will be assessed in a way suited to their individual requirements. Further information is available from the Head Teacher. Assessment is the means of obtaining information which allows teachers, pupils and parents to make judgements about pupils progress and identify where we go next. We do this in a variety of ways:- day-to-day observations. class check-ups. set tasks. self assessment. homework opportunities. standardised and diagnostic testing. Curriculum for Excellence moderation procedures. All assessments will generally be carried out by the class teacher. Information gathered from all assessments will be used to assist the school in reporting to pupils, parents, colleagues and other agencies. Personal Learning Journeys (PLJ) Every child in Loanhead will have a PLJ which will record their formal assessments and their wider achievements in the four capacities of Curriculum for Excellence. These will be available for parents to see on Parents Evening in March. 24

25 Assessment and reporting REPORTING TO PARENTS/CARERS AND MEETINGS Parents/carers will have the opportunity to meet with teachers formally twice a year in October and March. This includes discussion of pupil progress and the pupils school report. Parents also get the opportunity to visit their child s class during their class assembly. Guidance and methods used for assessing pupil progress, and the ways in which records are kept and reports made to parents are followed in school. A computerised report is issued to parents/carers in March/ April. Children who may have additional support needs, or who require a Co-ordinated Support Plan will be assessed in a way suited to their individual requirements. Further information is available from the Head Teacher. 25

26 Policies and procedures BEHAVIOUR The establishment has a range of policies and procedures which are available for parents to read. At Loanhead we promote positive behaviour and aim to create an atmosphere in which all pupils and staff can work, learn and play in safety. A variety of resources and strategies are in place to ensure this. We work closely in partnership with parents/carers and will always consult parents/carers when concerns and difficulties arise. The school is a community in which children and staff spend considerable time together. If children are to learn and teachers are to teach, there must be agreed rules for everyone s benefit, health and safety. A house card system is now in place to reward pupils displaying positive behaviour. P1 P7 are presently using their School Rules. Each class agrees their own set of Classroom Rules. The whole school follows the Circle Time Playground Rules. 26

27 Policies and procedures ANTI-BULLYING POLICY East Ayrshire Council is committed to creating and sustaining a safe, positive and inclusive environment, where respect is shown to and is given by all of its children, young people, staff and parents/carers. A number of initiatives and policy documents are in place to support, protect and encourage children and young people to lead happy and successful lives. These policies have a direct influence on the Respect and Protect anti-bullying behaviour policy, launched in November 2010, which outlines guidance and procedures for schools. Loanhead Primary has an updated Anti-Bullying Policy which has been achieved through consultation with pupils, staff and parents. Information leaflets are available for parents/carers and children giving relevant information outlined in the policy. Loanhead s own booklets for Parents/Carers and Children were updated by the Pupil Council and issued in September, PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION Adult supervision is provided in playgrounds at break times, in terms of the Schools (Safety and Supervision of Pupils) (Scotland) Regulations,

28 Additional support for learning The Educational (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 has replaced the law relating to special educational needs. This has now been updated by the 2009 Act which came into force on 17 November The majority of children and young people are able to access their curricular programme at school without the need of additional help other than that which any teacher will provide in any classroom. However, there will be a significant percentage of children/young people, who may, at some point in their education, have difficulties that will act as a barrier to their effective learning. In such circumstances the child or young person may require additional support beyond the norm in order to help them overcome these barriers. Such children/young people will be considered to have additional support needs. All schools and nursery establishments have a variety of procedures to assist in the early identification of children and young people with additional support needs. Identification and support planning will take place at the earliest possible stage. Children and young people who have been identified as having additional support needs will be supported through an Action Plan, Individual Learning Plan (ILP) or in some cases a Co-ordinated Support Plan. In line with legislation, parents/carers/children and young people will be fully consulted at all stages. The 2004 Act has been updated by the Educational (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act This Act places additional responsibilities on local authorities for children who are looked after by the local authority. It will also give more rights to parents in respect of requesting assessments in relation to their child/young person. Further information can be obtained from various leaflets, that can be accessed through council website or individual copies are available in school. Mediation and advocacy services are also available and information about these can be obtained from the contact details below. The range of additional support needs catered form and the specialist services provided, noting where the school has a special bases and/or special class (es) should be detailed. 28

29 Additional support for learning If you believe your child has additional support needs East Ayrshire Council publishes a range of informative advice. Please contact the school. Additional Support Needs : East Ayrshire Psychological Service Advice and support may be sought from other appropriate staff within the school and through consultancy with visiting professionals, including the educational psychologist. 29

30 Transition TRANSFER FROM PRIMARY TO SECONDARY SCHOOL Pupils are normally transferred between the ages of 11 and 12, so that they will have the opportunity to complete at least 4 years of secondary education. Parents/carers will be informed of the arrangements no later than December of the year preceding the date of transfer at the start of the new session. The children of Loanhead Primary School normally transfer to:- Kilmarnock Academy Elmbank Drive Kilmarnock. KA1 3BS Tel: Kilmarnock Academy has very strong links with their associated feeder primaries - Loanhead, Kirkstyle and Hillhead. There is a full transition programme of both formal and informal visits to and from the Academy through the P7 year. These activities include: Quizzes, Potted Sports, Sports and Technology Challenges. Every opportunity is taken to encourage pupils to engage with their new peer group in preparation for 1 st year. During the P7 year, parents are invited to attend a parents information evening in the Academy and also in Loanhead when the Head and Depute Head Teacher speaks directly to Loanhead pupils and parents. In June pupils will have three full days of transition in the Academy. P7 Transition Profiles All Primary 7 pupils are required to compile a profile of their achievements including personal successes and aspirations for the future. The profile is sent to the Academy to provide secondary staff with a coherent picture of children as individual learners. 30

31 Parental involvement (PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT) ACT 2006 The Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006 was passed in July The intention of the Act is to become more involved in their child s education. As a parent of a child in attendance at the school, you are automatically part of the Parent Forum of the school. The membership of the Parent Forum is made up of all parents who have a child at the school. The Parent Forum can decide to form a smaller body called the Parent Council. The Parent Council is a group of parents selected by members of the Parent Forum to represent them. Parent Councils are very flexible groups and the Parent Forum can decide on the type of group it wants to represent their views. Parents might decide they want a representative from each year group in the school. They might want to include pupils, other teachers at the school or parents from a primary or secondary school. This flexibility allows parents to choose a Parent Council which reflects their school and will encourage parents to become involved and engaged with their child s education. The Chair of the authorities Parents Steering Group has a place on Council Cabinet to help influence decision making about all matters relating to education. The authorities Parent Steering Group is composed of representatives from Parent Councils across East Ayrshire and this group will represent the views of parents in the school sector. PARENT COUNCIL MEMBERS Chairperson - Vice Chairperson - Secretary - Treasurer - Head Teacher Teacher Representative - Mrs Laura Rennie Miss Martine Kelly TBC Mr Craig MacDonald Mr Derek Forsyth TBC Parent Members - Mr Alistair Bell, Mrs Deborah Boyle, Mrs Heather Cameron, Mrs Wendy Johnstone, Mrs Lee Shanks. 31

32 Parental involvement Loanhead Primary School has a fund raising committee. Friends of Loanhead, a sub group of the Parent Council, which actively supports the school and holds a variety of events to raise money. Monies raised supports the school in providing many extended learning opportunities and play facilities for pupils. Committee members - Chairperson - Treasurer - Heather Cameron Kaz Hume Isabelle MacDonald Carolyn Hope Clare Laurenson Lynn McKinnon Emma Docherty Karen Stevenson You can find out the latest meeting news on the Friends of Loanhead facebook page or via the school website: 32

33 Parental involvement SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE INFORMATION Regulation 7 of The Education (School and Placing Information) (Scotland) Amendment, Etc Regulations 1993 requires each child s absence from school to be recorded in the school register as authorised that is approved by the authority, or unauthorised that is unexplained by the parent (truancy) or temporarily excluded from school. Parent must contact the school by telephone or in person by 0915 hours on the first day of absence, explaining the reason for non-attendance. It is important that the school is notified to prevent unnecessary procedures being followed e.g. in extreme circumstances, there may be a need to involve social services or police. The parent should provide a written note on the child s return to school, confirming the reason for absence. Due to the avoidable disruption to children s education caused by family holidays in term time, the Scottish Government issued a new Circular on attendance and absence in This national circular makes it clear that without the prior agreement of the school, family holidays will be classified as unauthorised absence. Schools will only give such agreement in exceptional circumstances related to the well-being of the family. Within the terms of the national circular reasons which are not acceptable include the availability of cheap holidays, the availability of desired accommodation, poor weather in school holidays, holidays overlapping the end of term, and parental difficulty in obtaining leave (except in specific circumstances). 33

34 Learning Community THE KILMARNOCK LEARNING COMMUNITY Loanhead Primary is a member of the Kilmarnock Learning Community which brings together a wide range of services to benefit young people. The principal purpose of the learning community is to ensure that services are better co-ordinated in order to meet the needs of young people and raise attainment. Learning Communities support the government s approach to GIRFEC (Getting it Right for Every Child). This means that if a child/young person needs support then, where possible, there will be one coordinated assessment and one plan for that child/young person. These services include: Education, Social Work, Health, Neighbourhood Services. The associated Secondary School is Kilmarnock Academy Elmbank Drive Kilmarnock KA1 3BS Telephone The associated Primary Schools are:- Kirkstyle Primary School Carron Avenue Kilmarnock KA1 3NF Hillhead Primary School 2 Kilmaurs Road Kilmarnock KA1 3NF Tel Tel. O

35 Learning Community Loanhead has no nursery class but enrols from a number of nurseries and pre-5 establishments within the Kilmarnock area. Those within the Kilmarnock Learning Community include: Riccarton Early Childhood Centre Campbell Street Kilmarnock KA1 4DY Cairns Early Childhood Centre Altonhill Avenue Kilmarnock KA3 1PH Tel Tel Hillbank Early Childhood Centre North West Kilmarnock Area Centre Western Road Kilmarnock KA3 1NQ Tel Learning Communities support the government s approach to GIRFEC (Getting it Right for Every Child). This means that if a child/young person needs support then, where possible, there will be one co-ordinated assessment and one plan for that child/young person. 35

36 Wider community links SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY As the school is an integral part of the community, children should be aware of the importance of treating the community and those who live in the community with respect and concern. The school endeavours to share in community projects e.g. local fairs, fund-raising for charity, old folks entertainment etc, and it is hoped that those who live in the community will recognise that the school welcomes participation by parents/carers and friends of the school. We support our elderly neighbours in Mill Court and visit in the Autumn to share our Harvest Table with them. Great use is made of the Dick Institute (on our doorstep) by all classes to choose library books and participate in workshops and exhibitions. We also benefit from close proximity with the Burns Monument and make regular visits there particularly during November s Imprint Festival. We were proud to take part in the opening ceremony of the Palace Theatre s recent 150 th birthday by singing a specially written song for the occasion. The Kilmarnock Town Trail Schools Resource assists our children to explore on foot and learn about the historic features of the town centre. Links with local businesses provides us with support for school events and enterprise projects. These include the local supermarkets and Wilko s. 36

37 Other information Contact Details Head of Education Alan Ward, East Ayrshire Council, Economy and Skill Council Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU Head of Community Support Kay Gilmour, East Ayrshire Council, Economy and Skills Council Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU Cabinet Member for Skills and Learning Councillor Stephanie Primrose East Ayrshire Council, Council Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Children's Champion Councillor Iain Linton East Ayrshire Council, Council Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU Local elected members for ward East Ayrshire Council, Council Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU 37

38 Other information Local Elected Member (Ward 3) Councillor Tom Cook East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU Local Elected Member (Ward 3) Councillor Lillian Jones East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU Local Elected Member (Ward 3) Councillor Douglas Reid East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU Local Elected Member (Ward 4) Councillor Jim Buchanan East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU Local Elected Member (Ward 4) Councillor John Campbell East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU Local Elected Member (Ward 4) Councillor Gordon Cree East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU Local Elected Member (Ward 4) Councillor Drew McIntyre East Ayrshire Council Council HQ London Road KILMARNOCK KA3 7BU 38

39 Disclaimer Although this information is correct at time of publication, there could be changes affecting any of the matters dealt with in the document: before the commencement or during the course of the school year in question in relation to subsequent establishment years. 39