2008 Prospectus (Internet Version)

INTRODUCTION

ADMISSIONS

WHAT WE TEACH

THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM.

BEHAVIOUR. CO-OPERATION WITH OTHER SCHOOLS

CLOTHING. TRANSPORT. MEALS

SCHOOL TIMES. COOL KIDS CLUB. HEALTH

PARENTS AND SCHOOL. INSURANCE

STARTING SCHOOL.

THE LAST WORD

INTRODUCTION

SWIMBRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL

Swimbridge Church of England Primary School is situated amid rolling Devon countryside, 4 miles south-east of Barnstaple. The school was founded at the end of the 18th century, although the present building was constructed 1866, with a further classroom being added in the 1920s and the inclusion of the former schoolhouse in the late 1980s to give a fourth classroom, music, library, meeting room and storage facilities. During 2001 gas central heating was added throughout the building following Internet cabling to all classrooms followed by the installation of interactive white boards in three rooms. Since the turn of the 21st century we have benefited from a large new admin. block, improved boys' cloakrooms and an enlarged playground. In the near future we anticipate the use of new recreation facilities right opposite the school.

Despite its age, our listed building, situated within a conservation area, has been modernised and rooms are light, airy and well maintained. There are four classes, catering for the entire primary age range of 5-11 years; small groups and individuals are withdrawn and supported as required.

Meals are cooked on the premises and eaten in classrooms that become our dining area at lunch times and our assembly area earlier in the day. Outside there are three playgrounds. Various groups of children participate in weekly swimming lessons at the South Molton Pool or North Devon Leisure Centre. Games take place on our small field opposite the school. We also use the Jubilee Hall each week for country dancing, drama, PE and gymnastic lessons. After school we operate Cool Kids Club, our own after school child care, which runs daily until 5.30 pm.

Our school is actively engaged in a variety of community events and sponsors two children, living in Ghana and India, through Action Aid.

We were proud to be awarded educational international 'Website of the Week' in 2001 and in the same year to be the recipient of a D.F.E.E School Achievement Award for school improvement. In 2002 Devon County Council nominated our school to the D.F.E.E. for a further School Achievement Award, for excellence, and a further Achievement Award was given in 2003 (the year the scheme concluded). In 2003 Swimbridge came top in the Primary League Tables for the South West of England; 25th in the country out or approximately 17,000 schools. In 2005 we again came top in North Devon in the value added tables.

Although a small school, we are able to cover all areas of the National Curriculum whilst endeavouring to maintain a friendly, caring family atmosphere conducive to learning.

OUR SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT


 Swimbridge School aims to provide a happy, secure and caring environment where each child has the opportunity to develop his, or her true potential.

 We seek to develop in each child a sense of achievement, encouraging high expectations and self-esteem within a framework which promotes attitudes of mutual respect and responsibility.

 Christian values are built into the ethos and teaching. The school aims to give high priority to the spiritual and moral development of all in its care.

 We see education as a partnership between children, staff, parents and governors and encourage the involvement of all families, and the wider community, in all aspects of the life of the school. Back to top

ADMISSIONS

ADMISSIONS

Children are admitted to school at the beginning of the term during which they reach their fifth birthday, a term before the statutory requirement. As term dates tend to vary slightly from year to year the following pattern, in line with Local Education Authority policy, has been adopted:

Child's date of birth Admission Point

1st September - 28th February Commencement of autumn term
1st March - 31st August Commencement of spring term

We welcome children on a part-time basis, usually for three or more morning sessions, during the half term prior to their taking up a full time place. The school prefers parents to visit the school and meet with the headteacher and staff before a formal application (directly to the school, with copies to the County Admission Officer) is made.

During the first week/ fortnight that rising-5 pupils start officially they stay for mornings only followed by mornings and lunchtime the following week. By the third/ forth week they should be attending for the entire day. Please see 'Starting School' at the end of this brochure. This induction is crucial; we welcome a dialogue with parents as children start school and trust this will continue until the time the children leave us.

Children already at another school, who wish to join us, do so at a mutually convenient time.

Details of our Admission Criteria, should these need to be used, are available from school. Back to top

WHAT WE TEACH

THE CURRICULUM
WHAT WE TEACH

ENGLISH

English (also referred to as Literacy) covers the important skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. A large proportion of the timetable is devoted to this subject as we feel Literacy is fundamental to all learning. As a school, we base our planning on the National Literacy Strategy, a government initiative devised to raise standards in literacy nationwide.

It is most important that the work children do at school is backed up at home by regular contact with books. In practice, this means ten to twenty minutes each day where, with younger children, a parent reads to a child or the child reads to the parent (or a combination of the two), progressing to the point where older children are able to read independently.

We value the part parents play in ensuring that this daily practice, at all ages, takes place and believe very firmly that it is a way in which their support can make a real difference to the way their children make progress at school.

Every day most primary school children have Literacy lesson for one hour - the Literacy Hour.
During the Literacy Hour children will cover -
?Ï Word Work: recognising and sounding letters and words as well as learning to spell
?Ï Sentence Work: learning grammar and punctuation
?Ï Text Work: reading and writing fiction, poetry and non-fiction

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics, or Numeracy as it is currently referred to, is one of the most important aspects of Primary education. The Government feels that every primary school child should be taught Numeracy for between 45 minutes (at Key Stage 1) and one hour every day (at Key Stage 2) -the Numeracy Hour
During the Numeracy hour children will learn about the following:
?Ï Numbers: Counting and understanding about the value of numbers, fractions and decimals
?Ï Calculations: Understanding addition and subtraction as well as working on times tables and division
?Ï Solving problems: Working on real life problems and finding out why Numeracy is important in every day life
?Ï Measures, shapes and space: Understanding all about different shapes and units of measurement (such as miles and kilometres)
?Ï Handling data: How to collect and present numbers

The hour (slightly less in Key Stage 1) is usually divided into:
Oral work & mental maths. (5-10 minutes) - children work together in their class to practise their mental and oral maths.
Main teaching activity (30-35 minutes) - children will cover all areas of numeracy during this activity, including numbers, shapes and measures and solving problems.
The review (plenary). (10-15 minutes) - the whole class will talk about the work they have done that day.

An ability to calculate mentally lies at the heart of numeracy. In the early stages children will use oral methods, in general moving from counting objects or fingers one by one to more sophisticated mental counting strategies. These mental calculations are not at the exclusion of written recording. As pupils progress to working with larger numbers they will learn more sophisticated mental methods and tackle more complex problems using standard written methods and, in Key Stage 2, calculators where appropriate.

It is amazing to see the progress Swimbridge children make in maths from the day they arrive as 4 year olds to the day they leave, with an ability which would perhaps put some parents to shame.

How to support your child in Literacy and Numeracy at home
?Ï Find out what the teacher is doing in class each term.
?Ï Go to any meetings the school holds on Literacy and Numeracy.
?Ï Make sure your child has a dictionary and thesaurus at home.
?Ï Read or share maths activities with your child on a regular basis. 20 minutes a day will make a real difference to your child?s progress.

SCIENCE

Children have a natural curiosity about the world around them and in Science we aim to satisfy that curiosity with knowledge and understanding at every level as they develop throughout their years at school. In science lessons they will learn to observe, explore and ask questions. Practical work plays an important role when there are opportunities to collect evidence that may help to answer their questions. They will be able to use a variety of scientific equipment, as accuracy of findings becomes more necessary. They have access to a range of vital sources of reference for research as they find out more about scientific ideas. They will learn how to use the specific language of science and give more precise explanations of their discoveries. Ultimately we aspire towards children who can think creatively to explain how things work, understand more about their world and, we hope, become the scientists of our future.

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Technology is a creative human experience that brings about change through design and the application of knowledge and resources. It involves drawing on knowledge and resources in order to make things work, control things and alter the way they work.

Much of the children's early technological experience comes from solving problems and responding to the needs created by their imaginative play. They may need to sail a boat, cross a bridge or build a house. Throughout the school we provide opportunities for the children to design, build and make things. Children are encouraged to find out which materials are best for which purpose and to use their knowledge and skills to modify, control and improve their models. Although generally linked with science, Technology has close links with many areas of the curriculum.

GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY

Geography and History are taught as separate subjects but linked wherever applicable. Through his Humanities work the child studies his local environment and his place in it, and then proceeds to widen his horizons to look at the world beyond and to other times and environments covering such varied topics as rivers, village settlers, environmental issues, toys, invaders, Victorians, Tudors & Stuarts and contrasting places at home and abroad. All of these are dependent on children?s ages and abilities. Visits out of school, to varies coastal locations, farms, museums, zoos etc, play an important part in the development of this part of the curriculum.

PERSONAL, SOCIAL and HEALTH EDUCATION.

P.S.H.E. enables pupils to become effective learners and supports them as they move from childhood through adolescence to become independent young people and effective citizens. This is maily covered through our weekly SEAL sessions.
Through our P.S.H.E. programme we aim to help children gain many skills including:
* acquire knowledge and understanding of themselves, of others and of the world in which they live;
* develop skills for living;
* make appropriate choices;
* understand and manage their emotions;
* protect the environment
* become morally and socially responsible;
* value themselves and respect others;
* contribute to their community;
* appreciate diversity and difference;

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Each day includes a corporate act of worship led by staff, children or clergy from a variety of Christian Churches. As a Church of England (Aided) School, we have links with the Parish Church and children participate or help lead a service there usually once each term.

RE has a significant position in our school and our scheme is regularly discussed and amended.

Some of the topics covered during a child's time in this school will include Pilgrimages and religious journeys, Festivals & Celebrations, Signs & Symbols, Parables, Healers, Faith, Comparative Religions, Caring for Others, Responsibility for our World and Problematic Situations.

We feel it is our duty to educate the whole child and as such the ethos of the school revolves around the example of Jesus.

Parents have a statutory right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and Assemblies if they so desire.


INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

ICT prepares our pupils to participate in a rapidly changing world in which work and other activities are increasingly transformed by access to varied and developing technology. At Swimbridge children use ICT tools to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. Increased capacity in the use of ICT promotes independent learning.

Computers have an important role in the school. With a large number of PC machines, interactive whiteboards, floor robots and other hardware, children have regular access for a variety of tasks including word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, simulations, art and design, interrogating the Internet, using databases and control. Children are taught how to use calculators, digital recorders, send E-Mail and use a digital camera.

Our ?Use of the Internet by pupils? policy is attached. Children (usually from Year 4 onwards) will only have access to the Internet if parents agree to this document.

?Whether we like it or not ICT has become a big part of education and school life.?

AESTHETIC SUBJECTS AND EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

A unique feature of our school is that ALL Key Stage 2 children learn a musical instrument at school; either recorder, brass, guitar or fife/flute. Pupils have the opportunity to play hand chimes, percussion, learn to read and compose music (on computers and in the flesh) and, of course, to sing. Each year various children take part local music festivals. In recent years Compact Discs of performances have been produced resulting in regular broadcasts on local radio. For many years this school has maintained a fine musical tradition and musical groups have regularly played in the Queens Theatre, Barnstaple; Great Hall, Exeter University; in the town centre and outside local superstores.

Every child has a chance to work and experiment with a wide variety of materials and techniques in art and craft and our children have had some success in art competitions. We endeavour to arrange for all children to experience the entire range of National Curriculum activities and more, within the Art curriculum.

Drama & / or music and movement lessons are held along with regular PE / Games and swimming / gymnastics sessions. The older children occasionally compete against other schools in a variety of sports, and Maypole or country dancing takes place throughout the year.

Children are regularly taken on educational visits and in addition we try to arrange a bi-annual camp at a residential centre for older Juniors, usually at Paignton where we spend time working within the zoo, visit Kent?s Cavern, model village, the Torquay Natural History Museum and much more. Residential visits foster personal growth as well as educational enrichment.

Groups of children regularly visit museums, coastal locations, local towns and villages, other schools, live musical, dance and dramatic performances, nature reserves, National Trust properties and farms during the course of their studies. It is assumed that parents give their permission for children to leave school with a supervised school group (so long as they have been informed of the trip) unless we are informed to the contrary. Parents are informed about all off-site visits in advance, usually through the weekly newsletter. Visits to the North Devon Leisure Centre or South Molton Swimming Pools, school field and Jubilee Hall are regarded as normal split-site activities.

Visits to school by musical and drama groups, storytellers and other performers are a regular part of our programme.

Currently our extra curricular activities include after school cookery and craft evenings (part of Cool Kids Club), after school Maths Club or Computer Club, lunchtime Fitness Club (Huff and Puff) and various instrumental musical lessons. French Club operates dependant on demand.

HOMEWORK

As a school, we encourage children to read for enjoyment at home, either to their parents or, in later years, primarily to themselves.

Children will occasionally be asked to complete school work at home, gather information for a survey they might be engaged in, or research an aspect of local geography or history.

Pupils receiving instrumentation tuition at school (e.g. recorder, fife / flute or brass) are expected to practise regularly - ideally 15 minutes each day.

During the Junior/KS2 years, pupils may be given an individual weekly spelling target to learn at home and / or a mental arithmetic assignment. Parents play a vital role in this process. In a similar way, multiplication tables are required learning, primarily at home.

During their time in the oldest classes, a formal homework assignment is given almost every weekend, usually lasting about 60 minutes or less, related to current class work. This extends the curriculum time available, informs parents of current work and expectations and prepares pupils for secondary education.

Older children each have a Homework Diary which parents are encouraged to sign and add relevant comments. Further details about homework are to be found within this publication. Back to top

THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM.

HOW DOES THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM WORK?

Every school has National Curriculum documents for each subject. These documents describe what teachers must teach at each key stage.
The National Curriculum does not include detailed lesson plans for teachers. Schools and teachers draw up their own schemes of work and lesson plans based on the National Curriculum. Teachers will plan these lessons, taking account of their pupils' needs. Schools also decide for themselves which textbooks and other teaching materials to use.
At Swimbridge we have a long established curriculum-rolling programme designed to ensure that all pupils are exposed to all aspects of the National Curriculum, and more. We believe children need a broad and balanced, enjoyable, curriculum based as much as possible on creativity and the acquisition of skills. With recent national demands this has not always been easy to provide. Our emphasis on field work in the Humanities, exploration through play (especially for younger children), swimming, creative use of computers, music, maypole dancing and the like indicate the direction we are going.

HOW IS EACH PUPIL'S PROGRESS ASSESSED?

The National Curriculum sets standards of achievement in each subject for pupils aged 5 to 14. For most subjects these standards range from levels 1 to 8. Pupils climb up the levels as they get older and learn more.
?Ï The standards at level 2 should challenge typical 7-year-olds
?Ï The standards at level 4 should challenge typical 11-year-olds
?Ï The standards at levels 5 and 6 should challenge typical 14-year-olds
More able pupils will reach the standards above these levels.
The National Curriculum for music, art and PE does not use levels 1 to 8. Instead, there is a single description of the standard that most pupils can expect to reach at the end of a key stage for each area of learning.
All teachers check their pupils' progress in each subject as a normal part of their teaching. They must also assess pupils' progress in English, mathematics and science against the National Curriculum standards when pupils reach ages 7, 11 and 14. The teacher decides which level best describes a pupil's performance in each area of learning in the subject. The teacher then uses these to work out an overall level in that subject.
Children in the Reception Year are assessed through the Foundation Stage Profile, which should be familiar to parents of children previously attending a Nursery or Pre-School. This provides us with an entry-level assessment of each child, helping us, like all good assessment procedures, to plan the programme of learning for the future.

DO PUPILS HAVE TO SIT NATIONAL TESTS AND EXAMINATIONS?

There are national tests for 7 and 11 in English and Mathematics, along with science at age. The tests give an independent measure of how pupils and schools are doing compared with the national standards in these subjects.

HOW CAN PARENTS FIND OUT HOW THEIR CHILDREN ARE DOING?

At Swimbridge we encourage parents to book an after school appointment and discuss their child's progress as required. At least once a year schools must give parents a written report on how their children are doing in all subjects. This report will also explain how parents can arrange to discuss comments in the report with teachers, in our case usually in June / July following publication of reports. At additional parent / teacher consultation is arranged during the Autumn Term and parents are welcome to book an after school appointment at any point in the school year.
If a child is 7 or 11 the report will also include their results in the national tests. It will show how these results compare with other children of the same age. We may also report on any 'optional' SAT tests taken in years 3, 4 and 5.

CAN PARENTS WITHDRAW THEIR CHILDREN FROM SOME SUBJECTS?
Parents can withdraw their children from some or all RE and sex education lessons following discussion with the Headteacher. They cannot withdraw them from any part of the National Curriculum.
There are some pupils, however, who do not have to follow the National Curriculum. Usually, this only happens if all or part of the National Curriculum is not suitable for a pupil because he or she has certain special educational needs. Back to top

BEHAVIOUR. CO-OPERATION WITH OTHER SCHOOLS

BEHAVIOUR
We have very high expectations of children's behaviour. We expect them to be polite, kind and helpful. We aim to provide a safe environment where children can feel safe and secure. We have one overall school rule 'I must care for others'. Mutual respect has been noted as a feature of our school.

Good behaviour is positively encouraged and inappropriate behaviour is strongly discouraged. If a parent has any concerns about behaviour they should first discuss this with the class teacher; the Headteacher will also be available should parents wish to discuss any matter relating to the life and work of the school.

CO-OPERATION WITH OTHER SCHOOLS

We have close links with many other local schools, notably especially Goodleigh along with schools in the South Molton and Barnstaple area. We share equipment and from time to time combine for various sports and educational activities. These activities help our pupils get to know other children of the same age, and allows them to gain from the expertise of other teachers. We also have close links with the local Pre-School and both local Secondary Schools - South Molton Community College and The Park School (Barnstaple). Back to top

CLOTHING. TRANSPORT. MEALS

CLOTHING

The school colour is GREY and it would be greatly appreciated if parents would bear this in mind when purchasing clothing for their children to wear at school.

We encourage all children to wear the recommended school dress:

Boys: Grey trousers
Grey sweatshirt or grey jumper with white shirt / polo shirt

Girls: Grey skirt or black 'ski pants'
Grey sweatshirt /grey jumper or grey pinafore and grey cardigan
Blue gingham dress in summer

Grey sweatshirts and T-shirts, embroidered with the school logo, can be obtained from Samuel Daws, Cross Street, Barnstaple or National Schoolwear, Boutport Street, Barnstaple. Red polo shirts for PE (see below) are also available from these suppliers. We prefer children to wear proper sensible black shoes at school; trainers, while permitted, are not recommended.

Swimming kit is required, together with a swimming cap, for sessions at the North Devon Leisure Centre or South Molton Pool

It is very important that all clothing is clearly marked with the child's name. Lost property can be collected from the School Office.

Jeans are not permitted in school. Our Thrift Shop (in the School Office) often has school wear available.

Every child should have a large named plimsoll bag to be kept on his/her peg containing PE kit.

For Physical Education:

Red Polo Shirt
Black shorts
Short white socks
Plimsolls or trainers (not those worn during the rest of the day)

For Gymnastics / dance:
P.E. Kit (above) or leotard.

For outside Games (depending on weather/ not Class 1):
P.E. Kit (above) or dark track suit or dark joggers and sweat shirt (not worn during the rest of the day
Football boots, old shoes or trainers for use on the field
Suitable socks

It is vital that children do not wear their school clothes or shoes for P.E. or Games sessions. If your child is unfit for PE sessions parents are asked to send in a note for the teacher to this effect.

Children also require a painting overall or apron.

The only items of jewellery permitted in school are watches and studs ( which are tolerated not recommended) in place of earrings. In line with County policy ear studs may need to be removed during P.E. / swimming activities. For health and safety reasons other jewellery should be left at home.


SCHOOL TRANSPORT

As a school we encourage parents to allow their children to walk to school, in the interests of their health and the environmental impact, maybe joining a Walking Bus. We appreciate that many of our children live a considerable distance from school so parents might like to consider car sharing to consider public transport or Park and Stride. Details of our School Travel Plan and Road Safety Policy are available on request.
The Local Authority has a policy on the provision of school transport. It provides, for example, for free school transport where a pupil lives beyond the agreed statutory distance. The statutory distance is defined as two miles for children up to eight years of age and three miles for those aged eight and over. To qualify the statutory distance is measured by using the shortest available route between the home and the school that serves the home address. Some pupils may be given free transport even where they live within the distance for special reasons e.g. medical grounds. It is a parental responsibility to arrange for children to travel in safety between the home and picking-up and setting-down points.

Where the Authority is not obliged to provide transport - including where parents choose a school other than that which serves their home address - it is the parents' responsibility to make arrangements for and meet the costs of travel between home and school.

Where spare seats on the County Council's school transport vehicles or contractors' vehicles are available, these may be occupied by children not entitled to free school transport on the
purchase of a concessionary ticket. Adequate warning will be given to parents should the concession need to be withdrawn.

If parents are unhappy about a decision on the implementation of this policy, they may consult their local county councillor with a view to appealing to the School Transport (Appeals) Sub-Committee. Further information is available from the Area Education Office, telephone Barnstaple (01271) 388552.

SCHOOL MEALS

Healthy school meals are prepared on our own school premises. Our cook prepares main meals, vegetarian options, salads, vegetables, puddings and sauces, using locally sourced and on the premises prepared ingredients and adds to the meal many little extras to make them attractive and excellent value for money (please see Appendix for current price). Dinner money should be paid half termly in advance or on the first day of each week in a named, sealed envelope please. One week's notice is requested if children wish to start or cease having meals although it is often possible for children to have meals at short notice. A monthly menu is sent out in advance and parents and children are asked to book their meals in advance

Free school meals may be available to families receiving certain forms of Income Support. Forms are available from the school office.

Facilities are available for children who wish to consume their own packed lunches. We strongly urge parents to provide healthy balanced lunches

It is the policy of the School Meals service and the school that all children who have school meals or packed lunches are encouraged to eat their meal and at least try unfamiliar foods. Children are able to bring their own drink to have with their meal (water is always available) but we do not permit carbonated drinks or glass bottles.

Many children like to bring a small snack for mid-morning break; this should be fruit or vegetable please. At the time of writing Key Stage 1 children receive free fruit for morning break each day. Sweets are not encouraged in school. In other words healthy snacks please.

PAYMENTS

Cheques for school meals should be made payable to Devon County Council; other cheques sent to the schools should normally be made payable to Swimbridge Primary School. We normally issue receipts for sums of £10 or above (the exception being payment for school meals). We prefer cheques rather than cash wherever possible. All sums should be sent in a labelled sealed envelope to the school office.

If your child receives instrumental music tuition for fife / flute or guitar a charge has to be made to cover the cost of the tutor. Charges are also made for Cool Kids Club and residential visits outside school sessions.

The viability of many school activities depends on the willingness of parental support. Visits are usually financed by voluntary contribution but no child is excluded because of parents' inability to contribute. However, a visit is unlikely to proceed without sufficient support. The Headteacher is happy to discuss financial difficulties with parents if required. Back to top

SCHOOL TIMES. COOL KIDS CLUB. HEALTH

SCHOOL HOURS & ABSENCES

School commences at 8.45 am and school closes at 3.15pm. Lunch is from 11.55 am to 1.00pm. Children should not come to school before 8.30am please; teachers are usually at school much earlier to prepare the days lessons and are unable to be responsible for children before for the allotted time.

Should it prove necessary not to open the school (e.g. very bad weather, no power for heating etc) every effort will be made to contact as many parents as possible in advance. If you are in any doubt please telephone the Headteacher. We will also endeavour to post up to date information on our website (in the News: Urgent Announcement section). In the unlikely event of an emergency early closure (for similar reasons) we will endeavour to contact as many parents as possible.

It is vital that all parents complete a "Parent Contact Form" and keep the School Secretary up to date with any changes.

If your child is late, or if you have to take your child out of school during the school day, please sign your child in, or out, at the school office. All visitors during the day, including parents, are asked to report to the Office. For security a CCTV system is in operation.

If your child is absent a telephone call as close to 8.45 am is vital so that we can be certain of the location of all children. We endeavour to contact parents should they be unaccounted for at the start of the school day. Should you wish to take your child away for a holiday during tern time please complete a Holiday Form (available from the school office). Headteachers are only allowed to authorise a maximum of two weeks holiday a year during term time. If your child is unwell or has any infectious condition they should not come to school until they are fully recovered.

COOL KIDS CLUB

Our Cool Kids club operates everyday from 3.15 to 5.30 pm. It is our aim to provide high quality child-care in a safe and stimulating environment.

A whole range of activities go on each evening ranging from craft, art, cookery to free play. At around £6.00 a session this must be about the lowest cost of childcare available locally. To book a place for a regular day, complete term, or just the occasional session ask at the school office where leaflets about the help with the cost of childcare are available.

 

In addition we operate a Breakfast Club (Early Birds) provide childcare and a breakfast, from 8.00 am.

SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICE

The North Devon Primary Care Trust offers a comprehensive School Health Service which is provided by doctors, nurses, dentists and other therapists who carry out examinations on children attending Local Authority schools to ensure they are in the best possible health to benefit from their education.

All children are invited to attend for health interviews with the school nurse on entry into school with subsequent medical examinations if applicable. Parents are invited to attend these appraisals.

School nurses perform simple screening tests at regular intervals throughout your child's school years which include vision and hearing tests and height/weight assessments. Although not invited to attend these screening sessions, you will be informed if any defect is found and advised what further tests are recommended.

School dentists examine children's teeth in school. If your child requires dental treatment this is provided free of charge, either by your family dentist or the school dentist.

If at any time you wish to discuss your child's health, you are welcome to speak to the School Nurse who may be contacted through school or Barnstaple Health Centre (01271 371761).

Headlice are a constant problem in most schools. If headlice are seen on a child?s head parents will be informed and requested to remove their child out of school. Once treated children can return. We hope that by taking action together we will eradicate the problem.

If your child has an injury at school first aid will be administered. If we are concerned about an injury we will contact you and, if required, seek further advice or treatment. Bumped head stickers are designed to let you know that a further watch on your child would be advisable.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES

NOTES OF GUIDANCE FROM DEVON COUNTY COUNCIL

1 The Headteacher (or his/her nominee) will normally only administer medicines prescribed by a Doctor.
2 A medicine form should be completed by the parent or guardian of the pupil and be delivered personally, together with the medicine, to the Headteacher or his/her nominee. The school can only administer medicine if the appropriate form (available from school secretary) is returned duly completed.

3 The medicine should be clearly labelled with:
(a) its contents
(b) the owner's name
(c) dosage.

4 It must be borne in mind that a Headteacher or teacher cannot be required to administer a medicine to a child. In the event of a Headteacher declining to do so, it is the parent's responsibility to make appropriate alternative arrangements.

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PARENTS AND SCHOOL. INSURANCE

PARENTS AND THE SCHOOL

Parents are very welcome in School and many parents and friends help in school on a voluntary basis, assisting with reading, games, art and craft, swimming and cookery.

A weekly newsletter is sent home at the end of each week; this is also available on our website.

Curriculum evenings are held to inform parents about their child's school activities and current trends and some class teachers send home curriculum plans for the term.

If you have any questions concerning your child's education, please do not hesitate to contact the class teacher or head teacher. Parents are always welcome to book an after school consultation session with their child?s teacher. Annual parent/teacher consultations are held in June/ July following the publication of annual reports as well as half way through the Autumn Term.

Our Home / School Agreement (see separate sheet) is an important document which parents are encouraged to consider, and sign.

FRIENDS OF SWIMBRIDGE SCHOOL (PARENT/TEACHER ASSOCIATION)

The Parent/Teacher Association was formed in 1982 and has organised numerous fund-raising and social events each year. It has provided a wealth of extras to enhance our school. In 2005 the association widened to include friends of our school together with parents and carers of children attending school and all members of staff.

Regular educational evenings are held, together with popular social events like dances, cycle rides, quiz evenings, treasure hunt, skittles matches etc. P.T.A. fund raising is of enormous support to our school.

PTA Constitution

1. The name of the Association shall be "Friends of Swimbridge C of E Primary School "

2. The aims and objectives of the Association shall be:-
(a) to foster and encourage the fullest co-operation between home and school.
(b) to promote and provide amenities for the welfare and education of the children.
(c) to raise funds for the above purpose.

3. The Association shall be non-political.

4. The President of the Association shall be the Head Teacher. The Head Teacher shall have the ultimate decision on all educational matters.

5. Membership of the Association shall be open to all parents or guardians of children registered at the school, along with friends of the school and all members of the staff, both teaching and non-teaching. Only parents or guardians and staff will be eligible to be nominated as officers and vote on all matters.

6. The Annual General Meeting of the Association shall be held within 30 days of the beginning of the autumn term, fourteen days' notice being given of all meetings. At the Annual General Meeting the chair shall be taken by the Chairman or in his/her absence, the Vice-Chairman.

7. During the Annual General Meeting, the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary will be elected.

8. Meetings shall be held at least once a term, fourteen days' notice being given of the time and place.

9. No alteration of the Constitution shall be made except at the Annual General Meeting or at an extraordinary meeting called for this purpose.

10. The Financial Year of the Association shall be from 1st September of one year to 31st August of the following year. The Treasurer shall keep on account of all income and expenditure and shall submit accounts, duly audited, at the Annual General Meeting. The banking account shall be in the name of the Association and shall operate by the signatures of any two of the Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer.

11. Any assets remaining of dissolution of the Association, after satisfying any outstanding debts and liabilities, shall not be distributed amongst the members of the Association but will be given to the school for the benefit of the children of the school in any manner which is exclusively charitable at law.

12. Quorum for meeting will comprise a minimum of 2 officers and 2 members.

Agreed 1982
Amended September 2005

COMPLAINTS

We sincerely hope that you will not have any complaints. All concerns should first of all discuss with your child?s teacher. If necessary the problem can be directed to the Headteacher. If the concern still remains consultation with the Chair of Governors is the next step followed by contact with the Divisional Education Officer. The governors have a Complaints Policy, available to view, like all policies, from the School Office.

INSURANCE

The Authority is insured against its legal liability for any injury, loss or damage caused to pupils as a result of negligence on its part or that of its employees, servants or agents.

Pupils attending the Authority's schools are not insured for personal accident benefits whilst on education premises or taking part in recognised activities outside the school.

The Council expects all employees, pupils and students to accept full responsibility for their personal possessions including money, and to consider taking out insurance themselves to cover any risk. Back to top

STARTING SCHOOL.

STARTING SCHOOL
For parents of children starting school and entering Class 1 for the first time a WELCOME PACK has been produced; please ask for your copy. Our Reception / Year 1 teacher will contact you a few weeks before your child starts school with a view to visiting you at home.

Starting school
An article written by Pam Crampton
'Educate the Children Summer 2000' competition winner
A soothing article that assures parents that they are not the only one with a child starting school.
Tips for a successful first day are here in abundance. So your child is starting school. Starting school is the beginning of the end, a rite of passage leaving babyhood behind forever and loosening those apron strings. In all probability you will feel far worse than your child does. She can let her feelings out by screaming, stamping and clinging on. The brave parent just has to bite the quivering lip personfully and reassure the tiny treasure they will be back later to pick them up.
The first thing to make sure of is not to pressure or push your child or have a huge build up to the big day which will probably only result in an equally huge letdown. If their behaviour can sometimes leave a little to be desired it's not a positive step to let him hear that "Mrs *** will soon sort him out!" She probably will but he doesn't need to know that yet. In all probability you and your child will have visited the school at least once prior to starting school. Better still if your child has been to nursery or playgroup and knows at least one other child who will be starting school at the same time.
Each school will have its own list of the things it likes a child to be able to do before starting school. Our list includes being able to sort out their own toilet needs. A retired teacher wrote ? Many times I would hear a small voice coming from the loo, "I've finished, will you come and wipe my bottom!!" Well, much as we grow to love your children, bottom wiping is not the sort of thing we want to be doing with anything up to 30 children to look after!?
If your child stays for school lunch they are expected to be able to use a knife and fork as well as wielding a spoon accurately. Packed lunches from home are often easier for very small children who may not be ready to try more adventurous diets? Parents know what their child will eat and give suitable portions, this may be one less worry for both you and the child. There are many advantages in having school lunches however!
It is helpful if your child can recognise her name. NEVER teach a little one to write their name in capitals, schools don't do this and it can take ages for the child to relearn it in lower case. A few good manners are likely to go a long way with the reception teacher. Please and thank you should be automatic by around the fourth birthday, make sure you practice this regularly, please.
When buying school clothes make sure your child can cope with them by himself. This is equally important for outdoor wear and PE kits. Imagine a teacher with 20 or 30 four and five year olds fastening up all those coats at playtime, worse still pouring 30 children into their PE kits and fastening 60 shoelaces for their plimsolls! For obvious reasons the school insists on all items of school clothing being labelled. Can I put in a plea here for that to include shoes. After one PE lesson all the boys' shoes became muddled up and it's impossible to tell one pair of Clarke's shoes from half a dozen others.
At the end of that first day your child will emerge taller than you remembered and probably exhausted. Now is not the time to give him the second degree. Let them talk in their own time about their day. Make sure you can plan a winding down activity when you get home and ensure a peaceful half hour or so before an early night ready for the next day. They will need it! Back to top

THE LAST WORD

THE LAST WORD

This prospectus is intended for guidance for parents. It is not intended to create any contractual arrangements and although it is correct at the time of publication aspects might alter in the light of the changing needs of the school. If you need any further information please contact the school.

An appendix is published in the first part of the autumn term each year with latest term dates, staff, contacts, prices etc.

WE HOPE YOUR CHILD WILL BE HAPPY AT SWIMBRIDGE!

Attachments (to the paper copy of this document)

*Welcome pack (for children about to start school for the first time)
* Autumn appendix of term dates, staff, prices, contacts, test results etc.
*Complaints procedure
* Home / School Agreement
* Fair processing notice/ Date Protection Act
* Application Form
*Behaviour and discipline policy
*Use of the Internet by pupils policy / parental agreement form
*Learning about Mathematics at home and school Back to top

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