Prospectus Page

Strategic Vision Statement Vision: Growing and Learning Together   St Helen’s Primary School promotes high achievement and learning for life by working with children to:   ·         Set high individual standards in all areas of the curriculum ·         Develop enquiring, creative minds and a spirit of curiosity ·         Have high self-esteem and confidence – respecting themselves and others ·         Be able to live and work independently and collaboratively ·         Be flexible, creative and adaptable for life in the modern world ·         Become self-motivated life-long learners ·         Develop confident technological and practical skills ·         Develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of Christianity ·         Seek to extend themselves in mind, body and spirit ·         Live a healthy life style ·         Respect and care for the environment   We believe that each child will succeed through:   ·         An ethos of support, challenge and encouragement to achieve, where each child is valued as an individual whilst having opportunities to develop team building skills ·         A broad and challenging curriculum ·         A stimulating, secure and happy learning environment ·         Celebrating effort and achievement ·         Innovative teaching and an investigative approach to learning ·         Provision of a rich and varied range of learning resources ·         An enriching programme of extra-curricular activities and visits ·         Learning partnerships between school, home and the community   We demonstrate our commitment to working as a learning community by:   ·         Striving for continuous improvement in all that we do ·         Working collaboratively towards common goals ·         Being an Investor in People

School Staff Teaching Staff:   Mr Jonathan Cooke                                                           Head teacher                         Miss Alison Cradock                                                        Class 6          Year 6   Mrs Nicola McHugh                                                         Class 5         Year 5   Mrs Janet Rosher  Deputy Head teacher                           Class 4           Year 4   Mrs Camilla Smith   (3 days)                                             Class 3            Year 3 Mrs Michelle Connelly   (2 days)                             Mrs Pauline Prince                                                            Class 2            Year 2   Miss Julia Walsh                                                               Class 1            Year 1   Miss Pam Bush                                                                 Reception   Mrs Jan Paton                                                                   S.E.N. Teacher   PPA Staff: Mrs Helen Joliffe                                                              Specialist Music teacher Mrs Rowena Hannam                                                       Modern Foreign Language teacher Mr Andy Bullock                                                              Physical Education coach   Teaching Assistants: Mrs Viv Balchin                                                                Mrs Jo Robinson                                                          Mrs Lynn Stutter                                                               Mrs Carolyn Bendall                                                  Mrs Nicola Woolford                                                        Mrs Kay Gear                                                                     Administration:                                                               Mrs Celia Madle                                                               Secretary     Lunch Break Supervisors: Mrs Jenny Collins                                                             Mrs Mandy Tomlinson            Mrs Vicky Moore                    Mrs Kirsten Ogilvie                                                          Mr Clive Gwinnell                  Mrs Wendy Slade                                                            Mrs Hannah Meade   Premises:                                                                          Mr Allan Jones                                                                  Caretaker Mr Arthur Gardiner, Mrs Janet Jones

School Governors                                                                                           SCHOOL GOVERNORS     APPOINTED BY THE FOUNDATION AUTHORITY Mrs Doreen Gale 7 Barn Owl Way Stoke Gifford BS34 8RZ Chair of Governors   Reverend Dave Pole The Vicarage Alveston BS35 2QX     Mr Mike Austwick     APPOINTED BY THE LOCAL EDUCATION AUTHORITY Mrs Jane Marshall       COMMUNITY GOVERNORS Mr Les Forrest     Mr John McLevy     PARENT GOVERNORS Mrs Rowena Hannam Mr Marcus Fry Mr Andrew Bale   Mrs Nicola Hemming Mrs Emma Robinson Mrs Kirsty Sims STAFF GOVERNORS     Mr Jonathan Cooke Miss Julia Walsh CLERK TO THE GOVERNORS Mrs Barbara Day c/o St. Helen’s Primary School   Please address all correspondence to the Clerk of Governors

History and General Information There has been a church school in the parish of Alveston since 1835.  The original National School (the building is now a private house) was provided jointly by the Church of England and local subscription, and was sited at Rudgeway, then the main centre of population.   For many years the school served a community dominated by the weather and the agricultural calendar, both of which caused much absenteeism entered in the school log books, which are preserved in school.  They give a wonderful insight into the area’s history.   Pupils paid 2 pence a week for a very basic education until it became free in 1891.  Before 1944 most children spent their entire school career at the village school leaving as soon as possible to supplement the family income.  A few, whose families could support them and who showed sufficient promise were able to sit the entrance examination for Thornbury Grammar School.  Some became pupil-teachers at this school.   After the 1944 Education Act, Rudgeway School became a Primary School.  By the mid-1960s the centre of population had shifted and the rapid growth of Alveston meant that the old building was no longer adequate.  After considerable pressure from the Parent Teacher Association, three temporary classrooms were erected on the present site.  Work then began on the new building which was ready for occupation on October 1966.  The old village school was closed but is still remembered with affection by many local people, the ancestors of whom attended the school from its earliest days and whose relatives are in the school today. A useful booklet entitled “Alveston Our Village within Living Memory” published by the local WI gives a fascinating insight into the old school and many other aspects of village life.   For some years Earthcott Green had its own Infant School but as numbers dropped it was closed and children came to Rudgeway.  The same fate befell Tytherington School despite a long campaign.  In September 1964 Saint Helen’s welcomed the children from that village and they quickly became part of our family.   In 1985 we celebrated 150 years of schooling in the parish by dressing in period costume, recreating an early Ascension Day with a church service, picnic and other appropriate activities.  Even the village policeman and vicar appeared in costume!  It was a day which will be long remembered and a fitting tribute to those who have worked for the benefit of the school and its children throughout the years. In the autumn 2007 we held a birthday party to celebrate 40 years at our current site.  The children and staff, both past and present, enjoyed the celebrations.  This coincided with the official openings of the new lobby area and rooms built at the front of the school.   The School building is currently undergoing major refurbishment. Over the last couple of years the roofing, electrics and heating has been replaced. In October 2007 we will have new Library and ICT facilities and an old Elliott classroom will be removed. We are in the middle of a rolling programme of classroom redecoration. . As a Primary School we cater for children between the ages of 4 and 11.  There are currently 228 children on the roll (June 2007), the majority of pupils coming to school come from the villages of Alveston and Tytherington.

About our school At St. Helen’s, our aim is to teach each child the National Curriculum and more.  We aim to develop and encourage each pupil’s abilities and self-esteem in a caring positive atmosphere designed to strengthen social and moral responsibilities whilst developing independence and self discipline.  Pupils are given opportunities to make decisions, plans, locate resources and review their achievements.  This increases pupil’s independence and develops learning, which we believe is essential for children to benefit from the National Curriculum and become responsible adults in the future. We use a variety of teaching styles in order to bring out the best in our children.   The link between home and school is greatly valued and we encourage all parents to participate and share all aspects of their child’s development.  Your help in school is much appreciated.  We foster links with other schools, both secondary and primary and with the community. Links between pre-school and secondary school is of considerable importance to ensure a smooth transition for our pupils. The school environment reflects our strong emphasis on FAMILY values, promoting the self-esteem of each person, by displaying and valuing the achievements of all the children.   We aim for children to develop and value their linguistic and cultural identity, while showing respect for other cultures.  Children are also encouraged to respect each other and also understand and respect their environment.  We recognise that children learn in different ways and the teaching methods will provide a variety of learning opportunities.   We aim to monitor each child’s development and progress to ensure maximum use of resources for all.  Each teacher ensures continuity within the school by close co-operation with colleagues.  It is our aim to know each child personally.  We ensure continuity across Key Stages 1 and 2 by discussion and carefully planned study.  Close links are also made with Marlwood, our local secondary school.    Finally, we aim to maintain and develop an atmosphere of tolerance, encouragement, praise, fairness, security, approval, acceptance and friendship with everyone involved with our school.     Equal Opportunities   It is the school’s policy to provide, as far as is possible, equal opportunity for all our children regardless of sex, race or physical ability and this is reflected in class organisation and school procedures.  A policy statement on equal opportunities complying with County guidelines is available for inspection on request.

School Admission Policy We welcome any parents wishing to visit our school – please phone to make an appointment. Should you wish your child to attend St. Helen’s, application forms are available from the school office.  Completed application forms should be sent to South Gloucestershire Council Education Service.  Please find the address at the back of the book.  Places have to be taken up within a limited time period.   Starting with the September 2006 cohort, our Standard Number reduced to 30, which over time will cover the whole school.  Under the terms of the Education Regulations 1994 SI1994/1421, any parent who has been refused a place for their child has the right of appeal.  This appeal should be made to the South Gloucestershire Council Education Department, telephone (01454) 863155.  However please note that the Governors feel that any breech of the Standard Number could have a detrimental effect upon the school.   Children are admitted to school in the autumn term following their 4th birthday.  The current policy for admission set by South Gloucestershire Council permits the offer of a place from September to any child who will be four years old before the 1st September.  The place a) does not have to be accepted, b) can be taken up at the beginning of the Spring or Summer Term in which they will be 5.   In the August/September of the year before your child starts school, you should complete an official form which you must return to South Gloucestershire County Council by the stated date which is usually mid October.  We would ask you to notify us when you have done this.  At the end of January you will receive confirmation that your child has been accepted, or notification that South Gloucestershire has suggested an alternative school.  (This only occurs if we have more than our permitted standard number applying for entry that year). If an alternative school has been suggested, you may appeal.   In order to help the new Reception children settle at school, we work with the local Pre-School in drawing up a programme designed to work to make school entry as smooth as possible. During the Summer Term we arrange opportunities such as:   New parents afternoon / evening The local Pre-school visit for story time with the Head teacher A visit to the Reception classroom                         A visit by the Head teacher and Reception teacher to the Pre-School   All the Reception children start the Autumn term on a part-time basis.  This enables the children to gradually become familiar with school routine whilst allowing the class teacher to give more individual attention to each child.  Full time admission is agreed with parents at the end of the four / six week Induction Period.

The Curriculum The National Curriculum provides a common syllabus for all schools in the following subjects: English, Maths, Science, Design and Technology, Information Communication Technology, History, Geography, Physical Education, Art and Design, Music, Religious Education, and Citizenship.  It is divided into four parts plus the Foundation Stage.   Foundation Stage Key Stage 1 :  the national curriculum designed for 5 to 7 years Key Stage 2 :  the curriculum designed for 7 to 11 years Key Stage 3 :  11 to 14 years Key Stage 4 :  14 to 16 years   Foundation Stage   The curriculum for our Reception children is based on the well researched finding that young children learn best when they learn practically.  The Foundation Stage covers six areas of learning:   Personal, Social and Emotional development Communication, Language and Literacy Mathematical Development Knowledge and Understanding of the World Physical Development Creative Development   Children need to be ‘doing’ rather than just being talked at, discovering and investigating rather than just being told how things work.  We know that when we find something out for ourselves, it is easier to remember.   Children are introduced to a carefully structured daily routine to provide opportunities to acquire skills and knowledge both within the building and in the outdoor environment.   Key Stages 1 and 2   In Key Stage 1, English and Mathematics are taught as distinct subjects, whilst others are taught as cross curricular topics.  Some have a strong subject base, e.g. Science - Materials, History - Toys.  In Year 2, there is a transition towards more subject based teaching in preparation for the next Key Stage.  This enables children to understand more clearly the objective nature of their studies.  Where possible, links between subjects are emphasised and appropriate skills are developed and reinforced. We plan work in a progression for each group so as your child will achieve the same learning objectives as another who may be in the same year group but in a different class.  This will of course be levelled to your child’s ability; he or she may need extra help or challenges at different times in their career.     During Key Stage 1 & 2, National Curriculum subjects are studied by all children.  The curriculum is being designed to ensure that work is not repeated unnecessarily but that everything is covered at the required depth.  Priority is given to reading, writing and mathematics.  The curriculum will be generally taught through English, Maths and topics to Key Stage 1 children and through subjects to Key Stage 2 children.  There will be occasions when children are taught together as a whole class, in small groups (which may be ability based) or individually.   At the end of each Key Stage, the children undertake Standard Assessment Tasks (SATs). These tests provide a snapshot of pupil learning.  Pupils are assessed on entry and during the Foundation Stage.  Pupils in years 3 to 5 are assessed annually using standardised tests to measure progress.   English   We aim to develop the children’s ability to communicate effectively in speech and writing, to listen with understanding and to be enthusiastic readers. Starting in September we will be teaching the new Primary Framework for English which consists of units of work in speaking, listening and responding, group discussion and interaction, drama, word recognition, structure and texts, understanding and interpreting texts,  responding to texts, creating texts, sentence structure and punctuation and presentation.   Speaking and Listening:    The importance of speaking and listening to develop the whole child cannot be underestimated.  We believe it is vital that children have as much experience as possible in the use of language. Children learn and communicate effectively by speaking, listening, working together in groups of different sizes and through drama.  We encourage these activities in school in many different ways. In addition, every child is included in our class productions.  Children are encouraged to develop an ambitious vocabulary and to become confident speakers.    Reading:   We have regular shared reading sessions and our children benefit from frequent reading activities with staff.  We want children to enjoy reading.  We aim to teach children to read accurately, fluently and with understanding.  We actively encourage parental involvement in order to provide a partnership approach to help children understand and respond to texts they read.  In addition to starter schemes, we are able to offer a wide range of books to support reading skills.  Short, daily phonic sessions are provided as the primary method to teach reading.  Later, regular sessions are given to develop comprehension skills.  Big books, novels, topic books and digital texts are also shared with pupils.   Writing:   Children are encouraged to write for enjoyment and for a wide range of purposes and audiences.  Opportunities are provided for children to display and read their writing.  Children are encouraged to reflect upon and evaluate their learning.  Pupils are encouraged to investigate spelling using a variety of strategies throughout their school life. We have invested in ‘Searchlights for Spelling’ which uses a multi-sensory approach to compliment the Spelling Bank. We have a handwriting policy to ensure greater consistency through the school and copies of the handwriting formation and joins are available.    Mathematics   Mathematics is a core subject in the National Curriculum and we give high priority to its implementation.  We have a structured mathematics scheme of work carefully planned as your child progresses through the school.  Starting in September we will be teaching the new Primary Framework for Mathematics which consists of units of work in using and applying maths, number, knowing and using number facts, calculating, understanding shape, measuring and handling data.   We choose to set tasks which are enjoyable and achievable, thereby increasing self-confidence.  We encourage co-operation between children, and their work is set to the appropriate level after the children’s work has been informally assessed by the teacher.   We use a variety of teaching and learning resources including published schemes and interactive materials, as well as maths games to deliver the curriculum and to reinforce and consolidate skills.   We encourage use of every-day mathematics as we feel it is important that children should know their tables and number facts.  The children use calculators from Year 5 and computers when appropriate. Science   Teaching Science at the primary age involves providing opportunities for children to turn ideas into investigations and develop a scientific way of thinking.  Teachers encourage the children to hypothesise, ask questions, predict and observe, carry out tests and interpret results.  There are opportunities to present findings to others, using drawings, diagrams, models and writing, whilst learning to respond to the reports of others.  Children will observe and learn about the way things work.   Design and Technology   Children are taught to develop their Design and Technology capability through designing and making a range of products and then evaluating how successful they have been.  Children are given opportunities to work safely with a range of tools and equipment.  Whenever possible, opportunities for business links between school and community are developed.   Information Communication Technology   Staff and governors see ICT as an exciting new development in teaching and learning.  It is essential preparation for the future.   At St. Helen’s Primary School ICT is taught in two ways, as a separate subject and through cross curricular links.   Within ICT lessons your child will cover word-processing, spreadsheets, use of databases, multimedia presentations, graphic simulations and control and monitoring.   Cross-curricular links are made where possible.  St. Helen’s Primary has interactive whiteboards throughout the school and access to the Internet which the children use under supervision.  The school also subscribes to Espresso which has a huge online encyclopaedia updated daily with interesting news items and video material especially for primary children.   There are also opportunities to take part in videoconferencing, as St. Helen’s Primary is a pilot school for this new technology.  This allows us to create links with museums and art galleries throughout the world and to talk to experts live on screen.   A brand new ICT suite is currently being built and equipped for whole class teaching and this should be available during the Autumn term 2007.   History   Children begin to learn about History by developing a sense of the past and progress to developing knowledge and understanding about the characteristics of particular periods in our past.  Your child will cover topics such as Local History, Ancient Greeks, Ancient Egyptians, Invaders, Tudors, and Britain since 1930.   Geography   Geography is concerned with the study of places, the human and physical processes that shape them and the people who live in them.  The study of geography helps our children make sense of their surroundings and the wider world.  The children begin by studying their immediate locality and gradually move outwards to look at wider issues.  Mapping and map skills are developed progressively through the school.   Physical Education   PE covers a range of activities - games, gymnastics, dance, athletics, swimming and outdoor and adventurous activities - all of which are designed to promote your child’s development of physical skills, co-ordination and body control.  We aim for all children to have two hours of physical exercise per week. Year 6 pupils are offered the opportunity to pursue adventurous sports at a residential centre such as the one in the Forest of Dean run by Bristol Education Authority.   We have a school hall, playground and one large field available for PE. The children benefit from weekly teaching by a specialist sports coach.  The school regularly competes in friendly events / matches with other schools and a Sports Day is held every year.    The swimming pool is heated and lessons take place from May to the end of September. Year 6 children go swimming at Thornbury Pool on a Thursday.  This lesson takes place during school time.   Art and Design   There are two aspects to art in the National Curriculum.  We develop knowledge and understanding by looking at different kinds of art and their purposes, genres, and historical aspects.  Children develop their work by looking at the work of artists.  The second aspect of art is investigating and making.  Children will be encouraged to convey their ideas and feelings in visual form, based upon what they observe, remember and imagine.   Music   The music curriculum is delivered by a specialist music teacher.  Musical skills, knowledge and understanding are developed through listening, appraising, performing, composing and notating.   All musical experiences take place on a weekly basis: Class music lessons Whole school singing practice Lunch time choir for different age groups Year 3 whole class recorder tuition Pupils in years 4 to 6 are able to purchase instrumental lessons in flute, clarinet, violin, cello, guitar, brass instruments and drums Children with instrumental experience can join an after school orchestra.   All instrumental tuition is delivered by visiting teachers from the South Gloucestershire Music Service.  Pupils’ musical skills are celebrated each year through small group ensembles, school productions, concerts and church services.   Religious Education   RE is central to the purpose of St. Helen’s Primary School because as a church school we see that our faith informs all aspects of our life together and helps us on our learning journey.   The school follows the local Agreed Syllabus.  RE in St. Helen’s Primary School explores how individuals and communities make meaning and sense of their lives through the great religions of the world. The basis for our religious education is the Christian religion but children are also taught about other religions, such as Islam and Hinduism. It enables pupils to know about, understand and respond to the important and ultimate questions of life.  RE is taught in such a way that it inspires pupils to explore, develop and affirm their own faith and values and have respect for faith, beliefs and values of others.   Aspects of RE will also be included in school or class-based projects.  Parents have a right to withdraw their child from RE and collective worship but as a Church school we feel it very important that you always discuss the reasons for this with the Head teacher first. Children withdrawn will be given supervised activities elsewhere in the school.   Personal Social and Health Education (PSHE and Citizenship)   During their time at St. Helen’s the children will learn life skills to serve them for the future.   The children study the following areas:   Developing confidence and responsibility and making the most of their opportunities Preparing to play an active role as citizens Developing a healthy, safer lifestyle Developing good relationship and respecting the differences between people Positive self image, choice making, developing relationships through work and play, moral dilemmas and asking for help   In 2007 the school achieved Healthy Schools status   Sex Education   Sex education is seen as part of a continuous theme in the health education that runs throughout the school.  Children’s questions are answered clearly and truthfully, bearing in mind the age of the particular child.   Sex Education will normally be part of the Year 5 and 6 Health Education programme.  Parents may view all the videos to be used prior to the children’s lessons and are informed when these lessons will take place.  The Sex Education lessons are often led by the School Nurse with the Class teacher in attendance      Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development   Opportunities for children to express moral values are part of everyday life at St. Helen’s.  All our children bring a variety of experiences that provide the foundation upon which we build. As part of our Collective Worship, we follow the Church of England ‘Values for Life’ scheme which discusses moral themes such as honesty, friendship, truthfulness, peace, justice, compassion, creativity, courage and hope.  Circle time provides other opportunities for moral development.  Children are encouraged to think of others and are actively involved in supporting different charities throughout the year. We have an active approach to developing children’s understanding of our cultural traditions.  We make visits to museums and art galleries to support current work and we have invited artists, authors and performers to work with children in school.  Children are also given opportunities to perform in Arts Festivals, Art Exhibitions, Technology Exhibitions, etc.   Modern Foreign Languages   All Key 2 children are taught French and currently we also have an Italian Club.   Planning, Preparation and Assessment   Since September 2005 teachers have been entitled to Planning, Preparation and Assessment time (PPA) during the school week.  At St. Helen’s we have used this opportunity to provide curriculum enrichment for the children.  Therefore, during PPA time, specialist French, Music and PE teachers are employed to teach the children.  To date this has proved most beneficial to both pupils and staff.   Provision for the Arts During their time with us, the children have many opportunities to experience the arts.  In addition to the regular curriculum we have visiting theatre groups and the younger children visit Marlwood School for a production.  Every Year group is involved in a school play.  We have a Country Dance Club.  The school enters a Speaking and Listening competition held by the local Rotary Club.  Various art activities / competitions are held during the year and the school displays the children's work.  This year we are having a focus on Art week which will finish with an exhibition for the parents.   Sporting Aims and Provision for Sport As a Healthy School, we believe that pupils need to exercise regularly to keep themselves fit, as this helps children to learn in all sorts of ways, both physically and mentally.  We endeavour to provide opportunities for sport in a variety of ways to meet curriculum demands and pupils’ needs.  These include regular timetable lessons for all pupils to teach basic skills.  Teachers have undertaken many training sessions to develop and maintain good teaching practice for PE.  The curriculum is enriched by having a specialist PE coach.  The younger children engage in Huff and Puff activities during lunchtimes. We have a school swimming pool and, in addition, every child goes to Thornbury pool for swimming lessons when they reach Year 6.  It is our aim that every child can swim at least 25metres when they leave our school, unless they have a special need of some kind.  We shall continue to offer these opportunities for sport in the next year.

Homework, Reports and Assessment Homework   Children will bring work home from school regularly.  This gives you an opportunity to see your child’s work and play an active part in assisting your child to learn.  The amount of homework issued generally follows the Government’s guidelines.   Key Stage 1 children will bring books home from the reading scheme.  They will have read the book in school and we encourage them to read it to you as well.  A few minutes (10 - 15) should be set aside when there is unlikely to be any interruptions and you can both enjoy reading the book together.  Older Key Stage 1 children will be given a short list of spellings to learn each week.  The children will benefit if you help them by making it fun and enjoyable.   Children in Key Stage 2 are expected to learn weekly spellings and tables.  They will also have homework tasks.  The set task usually relates to work currently being undertaken by the class.  We encourage children to do their homework immediately, rather than leave it, to avoid unnecessary worry.  It is also beneficial to still listen to your child read.   Reports   A written school report is issued for every child during the Summer term as a record of his/her progress during that academic year.  There is an opportunity for parents to discuss this with the class teacher at the Parents’ Evenings.  There are additional Parents’ Evenings during the Autumn and Spring terms, but appointments can be made at any time to see either the class teacher or the Head teacher.  We will contact you if we want to discuss your child’s schooling.  Records are kept for every child at the school which includes examples of children’s work, results of standardised tests, results of National Curriculum tests, and they may include some details of family background with reports from Medical/Educational specialists should the need arise.  These records are updated regularly and may only be seen by members of staff, parents of the particular child and the Head teacher of a prospective school.  You have a right to see your child’s record and if you wish to do so, please contact the Head teacher.  A child’s records are kept at school until s/he moves to a new school.   Assessment   We use a variety of methods to assess your child.   Your child is assessed on the Foundation Stage Profile during their time in Reception.  We use Teacher Assessment in Year 1 to assess progress in reading, writing and mathematics.  At Year 2, we use the Key Stage 1 Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) to inform us of progress and you receive details of their achievement.  In Years 3, 4 and 5 we use the QCA non-statutory English and Maths tests.  In Year 6 the children sit the Key Stage 2 SATs which are marked externally and you receive a copy of the results. However it is worth pointing out that whilst these tests give a snapshot of your child’s progress for Governors, the DFES and Parents, it is worth remembering that your child’s teacher knows her/him best from continual assessment.

Special Pupils Pupils with Special Needs   All our children are special and they have their own individual needs.  We value their differences and try to provide them with equal access to all learning experiences.  We have a careful system of assessment and monitoring for all pupils.  This ensures that very early on we can offer support to any child with learning, behavioural or social needs.  For some this may mean providing additional support, for others it may mean developing open-ended challenges, designed to stretch their problem solving capabilities.    Parents with anxieties about their child are invited to discuss the issue with the class teacher, who will contact Mrs Jan Paton our Special Educational Needs Coordinator within the school.   Parents are always kept fully informed about developments and we liase closely with support services, for example; Educational Psychologists, School Nurse, etc.  Should your child have educational needs which are likely to require support above and beyond that currently available from the school, additional help is available via the Local Education Authority.  Further details are available from the Head teacher.   Pastoral Care   From the time your child enters school s/he will have one special adult who will be responsible for his/her pastoral care.  This will be your child’s class teacher.  We hope you will feel able to talk with this person about any concerns you or your child may have which might affect his/her performance in school. If it is possible for us to help, then we will.   Pupils from Year 5 and 6 are trained to act as Peer Mentors during the playtimes.  They do a most valuable job and help ensure that everyone is having a positive time during breaks.   Discipline   We are a village school with a strong sense of “family”.  At St. Helen’s we have a list of school rules designed to ensure the safety of the children and to encourage respect and courtesy towards others.  We are encouraging high standards of behaviour and from everyone, adults and children alike.  If problems do arise that cause concern, we will inform the parents’. We ask parents to inform us if they have any concerns, or if their child is having problems.

School Rules Our School Rules are: 1.    Be kind, polite and helpful. 2.    Always do your best 3.    Be honest 4.    Listen carefully 5.    Take care of one another and our school

School Council Two representatives from each class meet regularly with the Head Teacher during the lunch break to discuss ideas as to how they may improve the school. They have discussed how to improve the building, lunch times, and have chosen lunchtime play equipment. They also organise the annual Anti-bullying Week. They have also come up with ideas to tackle litter.  The staff welcome and value the contribution from the children.

Extra Curricular Activities and Music Lunchtime Clubs   A number of activities occur during the lunchtimes including knitting, football, netball, choir, chess, Italian, gardening and puzzle club.   After School Activities   Children are able to participate in a range of after school activities.  The activities offered vary from term to term so that children can sample a range of opportunities and experiences.  During the last year, we have offered Football, Rugby, Netball, Cricket, Badminton, Multi Sports, Country Dancing, Computer, Orchestra and Drama club.   We are always delighted to welcome parents and friends of the school who are prepared to offer expertise so that we can broaden the opportunities available.   Music   Each year Key Stage 2 children in years 4, 5, and 6 are able to receive instrumental lessons in brass, strings, woodwind and percussion.  In year 3 all children will receive recorder lessons.  These are taught by our peripatetic music teachers.  Lessons in years 4, 5 and 6 incur a tuition charge which is payable termly.  If your child wishes to stop learning an instrument, one terms notice must be given as the lessons have to be booked one term in advance. Parents are kept fully informed of opportunities as they arise through the regular newsletters.

School Resources The school accommodation is bright and welcoming.  All the classes are housed in the main building and two adjacent blocks.  The main block consists of two wings either side of the hall, ICT Suite, library, administration area, cloakrooms and kitchen.    There are separate playgrounds for Key Stage 1 and 2 children, both of which have covered areas with benches for quiet play thanks to the Parent Teacher Association (PTA).  The school benefits from a large field and there is also a garden and a wildlife area.  A sensory garden for the foundation stage has been developed beside the infant playground.  The PTA are currently raising money for a new adventure play area.  In addition to the above, the PTA has funded a heated swimming pool.   The school has a wide range of audio-visual equipment and we have interactive whiteboards in all our classrooms.  As well as an ICT suite the school has a wireless network. For the past year we have been exploring video-conferencing as a teaching and learning tool.   The hall is fitted as a gymnasium and we have a good range of sports equipment to enable us to provide experience of a wide variety of physical activity.  We are very fortunate that the PTA has recently provided new staging in the school hall.  The science and mathematics equipment is constantly being replenished and updated.  Each class has access to a range of musical instruments from a large central collection in the music room.  The continually updated library of fiction and non fiction books is supplemented by volumes loaned by Bristol Schools Library Service, which also offers invaluable support and advice.  The school runs a Book Fair for the children twice a year to which parents are invited.

School Organisation The school is currently organised into eight classes, some of which have split age groups.  The only criterion for the decision as to the structure of the classes is chronological age, with a bias given to keeping the smallest numbers in the reception and early infant classes.  Currently, the average class size is 26 in Key Stage 1 and 29 in Key Stage 2.  Each class is supported by a Teaching Assistant.  Parents, students and friends of the school also support the teacher within the classroom.  The classes are not streamed and, for the most part, a class is taught by its own teacher for all areas of the curriculum.  Academic work in the classrooms is taught either individually, in groups or within the class year group as a whole.  In areas such as English and Mathematics the children are taught in ability groups so that the work can be matched to the child’s ability, knowledge and skills.   The pupils are taught by an enthusiastic and hard working staff.  The ethos of the school is one where children and staff work together in a lively and stimulating environment.   SCHOOL TIMES                                             HOURS TAUGHT PER WEEK                                                                                                             Infant             Junior 9.00amto 12.noon                                              Recommended            21                    23.5 1.15pm to 3.30pm (Key Stage 1) 1.00 pm to 3.30pm(Key Stage 2)                      St.Helen’s                    22                    23.5   Please note that the school office is closed on Thursday mornings enabling the office staff to have some quality working time to tackle more complex jobs.  Please only contact the office for urgent matters.  The school answer phone will be in operation during this time.  All urgent matters will of course be dealt with immediately.

Attendance School opens at 8.50 am and children should arrive before 9.00 am when school begins.  It is to your child’s advantage to be punctual for school but we do recognise that people do sometimes encounter difficulties that make them late.  We prefer children to attend school whatever the time rather than not at all.  Registration takes place between 9.00 am to 9.10 am, after which time your child should go to the office to report late for school.  A record is kept of lateness. We need to know the reason why a child is absent as we are legally required to publish attendance information.  Please telephone or send a note.  In the event of the school not being informed, we will contact the parents to request this information whenever possible.   Please take care when dropping or collecting your child.  Do not obstruct the gateway, the bus lay-by or attempt to enter the school with a car during 8.30 - 9.10 am and 3.15 – 4.00 pm.   Parking is legal on the road beyond the lay-by.The Parish Council request parents to use the Youth Centre and Jubilee Hall car parks rather than areas of grass by the Church.   THERE IS NO RIGHT TURN FROM GREENHILL ONTO THE A.38. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS.   No child will be allowed to leave the school premises unless a parent collects them or they catch the school coach.  Removal during the school day must be notified to the Head teacher in advance.  This information is entered into our diary so that we can keep a record of pupils at all times.   We believe that a child’s progress is affected by irregular attendance or holiday absence.  However, if you intend to take your children out of school for any reason other than illness, please request this in writing in advance to the Head teacher.  The school is able to authorise up to ten days absence (twenty sessions) in one block, in any one school year as a part of annual leave, i.e. up to one ten day block (not separate days).  If however further absence is intended, we have to record this as unauthorised absence.  We are unable to authorise absence when a child is involved in National Tests.  These unauthorised absences are recorded against a child’s records.   We strongly request that any absence from school apart from sickness is to be avoided at all times unless there are extenuating personal circumstances.   Pupil Absence Information   St. Helen’s Primary School is legally required to publish information with regard to pupil absence.  This information only covers pupils of compulsory school age and therefore children in their reception year at school are not included in the data provided.   We are very proud of the attendance record at St.Helen’s Primary School and the commitment with which parents ensure that their children arrive at school on time and keep holidays in term time to an absolute minimum.   Summary Statistics (September 2006 to May 2007)   Total number of pupils in roll (May 2007) of compulsory school age:                       204 Percentage of pupil sessions (half days) missed through authorised absence:           4.13% Percentage of pupil sessions (half days) missed through unauthorised absence:       0.26%

School Uniform Uniform   Children’s at St.Helen’s are invited to wear the school uniform which is green/grey.  We believe that by wearing uniform the children develop a sense of pride in, and identify with, their school. Sweatshirts, cardigans, polo shirts, fleeces, coats, pinafore dresses, book bags and PE kit can be ordered through the school.  Please collect an order form from the ‘wall tidy’ outside the office or see the School Secretary for further details.   Boys:               Green sweatshirt or green jumper                         White shirt or white or jade green school polo shirt                                     Grey trousers (long or short)                         Grey socks                         Appropriate school shoes   Girls:              Green sweatshirt or cardigan or green jumper                         White blouse or white or jade green school polo shirt                         Grey pinafore dress or skirt or grey / black smart trousers                         White socks                         Appropriate school shoes                         Summer dresses or skirts in green stripe or check   Black or brown shoes / sandals should always be in a sensible style (no trainers or boots), with an appropriate size heel.  Open toed sandals are not permissible for Health and Safety reasons.   P.E   IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT ALL CHILDREN HAVE THE BASIC NAMED PE KIT AVAILABLE IN SCHOOL AT ALL TIMES FOR REASONS