1. education
2. school

NORTH NEWTON
COMMUNITY
PRIMARY SCHOOL
HANDBOOK
2013-14
1
NORTH NEWTON
COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL
CHURCH ROAD, NORTH NEWTON,
BRIDGWATER, SOMERSET, TA7 0BG
Telephone/Fax: 01278 662140
Email: office@northnewton.somerset.sch.uk
Website: www.northnewtonschool.co.uk
Headteacher: Mr. D. P. Gliddon
Chair of Governors: Mrs. S. Cook
SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCIL
A Somerset Primary School
2
INTRODUCTION
North Newton Community Primary School is a rural primary school for pupils aged 4-11. It is the
aim of the staff to ensure that the School is a happy and successful one. To this end the staff will
be as supportive towards the children in their care as possible and will teach in a manner that suits
the needs of the children.
Prospective parents are always welcome to visit the School in order to assess the opportunities
provided for their children and to meet the staff, and should contact the Head's Secretary at the
School for an appointment.
THE SCHOOL GOVERNORS
Sarah Cook – Chair of Governors
Governor
Mrs. S. Cook (Chair)
Mr. M. Barham
Mr. D. P. Gliddon
Mrs. S. Hogg
Mrs. K. Kirby
Mr. A. O’Connor (Vice Chair)
Mrs. S. Phippen
Mrs. E. Tipper
Clerk to Governors:
Mrs. R. Hodge
Community
Community
Staff
Staff
Parent
Parent
Parent
LEA
c/o North Newton CP School,
01278 662140
The Governors have a general responsibility for the effective management of the School but they
are not expected to take detailed decisions about the day to day running of the School - that is the
role of the Head. They are responsible for the curriculum and conduct of the School; managing
the budget; staffing; discipline and attendance.
Governors' meetings are held regularly and at least once a term to consider a variety of items
affecting the School and to receive reports from the Head concerning the conduct, finance and
curriculum of the School.
3
STAFF
Mr. David Gliddon
Headteacher
Mrs. Susan Hogg
Hedgehogs Class
Teacher
Mrs. Carol Becher
Foxes Class Teacher
Mrs. Sarah Thomson
Foxes Class
Teacher/SENCO
Miss Annie Hudson
Squirrels Class
Teacher
Mrs. Helen
Woodhams
Badgers Class
Teacher
Mrs. Rosalyn Hodge
Secretary/
Finance
Officer/Clerk to
Governors
Miss Denise Rogers,
Administrative
Assistant
Mrs. Patricia
Burgess
Teaching Assistant,
Mid-Day Supervisor,
Hedgehogs Class
Mrs. Julie Clark
Teaching Assistant
(SEN)
Mrs. Carol Adams
Teaching Assistant
(SEN)/Mid-Day
Supervisor
Mrs. Michelle
Coombes
Teaching Assistant,
SEN
Mrs. Cynthia
Chappell
Teaching Assistant
(SEN)/
Mid-day Supervisor
Mrs. Maxine Hughes
Teaching Assistant,
Foxes Class
Mrs. Susan Stone
Teaching Assistant,
Squirrels Class
Mrs. Vicky Marsh
Teaching Assistant,
Badgers Class/
Mid-day Supervisor
Mrs. Penelope
Smith
Mid-day Supervisor
(SEN)
Mrs. Sharon Copping
Breakfast
Club/Catering
Supervisor
Ms. Gillian
Duddridge
Mid-Day Supervisor/
Breakfast Club
Mrs. Ann Perry
Caretaker/Cleaner
4
AIMS AND MISSION STATEMENT
North Newton’s Mission Statement:
“We aim to provide a safe, caring, happy and well-ordered environment
where everyone’s contribution is valued, and all members of our school
community work towards their full potential.”
The School is committed to providing a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum, where all our
children have equal access and individual needs are met. We aim to provide the best possible
education for every child in our care.
We want the children at North Newton:
to enjoy being a child.
to work within an atmosphere of mutual trust and feel confident and secure.
to develop self discipline, self motivation, independence and good self esteem.
to think for themselves and make their own judgments.
to develop a sound foundation in maths, reading, writing, science, ICT and other elements
of the National Curriculum, based on the latest developments in teaching practice and to
use these skills in intellectual, imaginative and creative contexts.
to have a respect for people within our school community and an appreciation and
understanding of the wider world in which we live.
to have an appreciation of beauty and spiritual awareness.
to persevere with tasks and physical skills.
to develop a love of learning which will continue in their future lives.
We also want to encourage parents to take an active role and interest in the education of their
children in partnership with us.
5
THE CONTENT AND ORGANISATION OF THE CURRICULUM
Since September 2012 the School has been divided into four classes: Hedgehogs Class
(Reception) – 16 children, Foxes (Years 1-2) - 28 children, Squirrels (Years 3-4) – 25 and Badgers
(Years 5-6) - 26 children.
EARLY YEARS
The Early Years Foundation Stage covers the education of children from 3-5 years and the last
year of the foundation stage is referred to as the Reception year. The foundation stage provides
provision for the different starting points from which children develop their learning and builds on
what they can do already. The content matches the different levels of young children’s needs.
Planned and purposeful activities provide opportunities for teaching and learning both indoors and
outdoors.
The Early Years Foundation Stage is divided into three prime areas, and four specific areas of
learning:
The prime areas are:
•
Communication and language
•
Physical development
•
Personal, social and emotional development
The specific areas are:
•
Literacy ( reading and writing)
•
Mathematics (numbers and shape, space and measures)
•
Understanding the world (people and communities, the world and technology)
•
Expressive arts and design
THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM
The curriculum to which each child is entitled has been laid down by the National Curriculum,
which will provide a framework which will ensure the development of a child as he/she moves
through the School. The basic requirements under the National Curriculum include Religious
Education and four 'core' subjects: English, Mathematics, Science and ICT. There are six
'foundation' subjects: Art and Design, History, Geography, Music, Physical Education and
Technology.
6
In addition to the subjects specified in the National Curriculum, the School curriculum also
addresses cross-curricular issues such as Personal and Social Education, Health, Equal
Opportunities and Multi-Cultural Education. The manner in which the curriculum as a whole is
delivered will reflect the needs of each individual child, and so the organisation of teaching groups
will, of necessity, be flexible.
The National Curriculum describes subject areas and we
do teach the curriculum in subjects, especially at Key
Stage 2; where appropriate the curriculum may be taught in
a more integrated and thematic way. The majority of
teaching time in a given week will be given over to the core
subjects, although every effort will be made to ensure that
the foundation subjects receive adequate emphasis.
The National Curriculum provides attainment targets which
will provide standards against which children's progress will
be assessed. The School will communicate the results of
these assessments to parents at the end of each Key Stage, i.e. ages 7 and 11. The overall
purpose of any such process is to monitor progress, diagnose weaknesses and to give staff an
indicator for a pupil's future work. Every child is given an Annual Report in July and parents are
given an opportunity to come and discuss this with the Class Teacher.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
The School's Religious Education policy has been drawn up in accordance with the LEA's nondenominational Agreed Syllabus, and the daily Act of Worship is intended to reflect our Christian
tradition. It is, however, intended that our pupils should also gain some awareness and
understanding of other world religions.
The requirements for daily worship are complied with, and assembly is held either as a whole
school or individual/combined classes.
SEX EDUCATION
Sex Education is given as part of the teaching on Health, Personal and Social Education and in
the Science element of the core curriculum. The content of the Sex Education teaching has been
drawn up in accordance with the LEA's guidelines and has been approved by both the School
Governors and parents of children at the School. Children will NOT be exposed to subjects such
as Aids or homosexuality in the teaching programme, although staff will respond to any enquiries
from children on such matters.
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
Where appropriate the School aims to give special help to children with specific or general
learning difficulties and to very able children. All children will have access to the whole of the
National Curriculum, however the work set will match individual pupil's needs and abilities and
children with learning difficulties may also receive additional support as part of a group or
individually. Children with particularly severe learning and/or behavioural difficulties may, with
their parents' consent, be referred to the Multi-Professional Team who deal with Additional
Educational Needs’ children. Access to the school for children with disabilities is being enhanced
on a rolling programme. The Special Educational Needs policy is reviewed annually.
The School employs a part-time SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) who assesses
and supports children throughout the School with specific educational needs. Additional support
programmes are provided, as required, and the SENCO is available to talk to parents who may
have concerns regarding their child.
7
GENERAL INFORMATION
ABSENCE
If your child is unable to attend school it is necessary for you to let us know on the first day of
absence. Please telephone the office by 9.30 a.m. to advise that your child will not be in school on
that day. If we do not know the reason for your child’s absence we shall endeavour to contact you
to ascertain the reason; this is a Department for Education requirement.
When the absence is lengthy, please notify the School as soon as possible. Arrangements can
then be made for work at home to be provided, if this is appropriate.
BREAKFAST CLUB (EARLY BIRDS)
The Early Birds Breakfast Club provides children with a healthy breakfast and
a good start to the day, at a very reasonable cost (£4.00 per session). After a
nutritional breakfast the children have access to play facilities, organised
games, craft activities or can just mix with their friends. The Club is open
each school day from 7.45 a.m. to 8.45 a.m. and is operated by two members
of staff.
Children may only use the Breakfast Club if they have booked in advance. To book a place (or if
you have any queries) please contact the Breakfast Club Team on 07545 266027.
BUDDY SYSTEM
Children from years 5 and 6 operate a buddy system during playtimes and are noticeable by their
red caps. Any child who ‘needs a friend’ can approach one of the buddies for support.
CHURCH LINKS
The School receives weekly visits from the Rev. Jane Haslam or Rev. Philip Denison during term
time. We also visit the Church for important festivals at Harvest and Christmas.
COMPUTER SUITE
The school has a large number of networked computers and laptops giving children access to the
Internet and Somerset Intranet in each of the classes. Children use group email addresses and
the computers have all the programmes required to cover the ICT curriculum. Access is restricted
to sites that have been centrally ‘filtered’ and we ask all parents to sign a consent form allowing
their child to access the Internet. Each classroom also has an Interactive White Board.
EDUCATIONAL VISITS AND EXPEDITIONS
All classes have the opportunity to take part in trips away
from the School. Recent residential visits include a visit to
Cornwall for children in Years 5 and 6 and the Magdalen
Project for Years 3 and 4 children. These trips are of great
educational and social benefit. Occasional class visits in
connection with school work are organised to local places
of interest. An annual visit is made to a local theatre for its
Christmas production. This frequently results in much
interesting
discussion
and
follow-up
work.
8
EMERGENCIES
In the event of severe weather, etc. preventing the School from opening announcements will be
made on BBC Radio Somerset (95.5 FM) and Heart radio’s (106.6 FM). The following websites
will also list school closures: https://slp.somerset.gov.uk and www.heartsomerset.co.uk. If
possible, a recorded message will be announced on the school’s answer-machine. It will remain
School policy to open if at all possible and all parents are encouraged to keep in touch with the
School should prolonged difficulties occur.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
A variety of extra-curricular activities take place after school and at lunch times throughout the
year including recorders, drums, netball, football, rounders, cricket, film club, computer club, art,
speech and drama, cookery and gymnastics. The children regularly take part in netball, football,
rounders and athletics competitions against other schools.
GETTING TO SCHOOL
Children are encouraged to walk, cycle or scoot to school and
bicycles/scooters can be stored safely in the cycle shelter/scooter
pod. Children who walk or cycle to school are provided with a free
fluorescent jacket.
HOLIDAYS IN TERM TIME
The government advice through the Department for Education is that parents should not normally
take pupils on holiday during school term-time. The law says that a pupil may be granted leave of
absence from the school to enable him/her to go away on holiday where:
(a)
An application has been made in advance to the Headteacher by the parent/carer with whom
the pupil normally resides; and
(b)
The Headteacher considers that the leave of absence should be granted due to the "special
circumstances" relating to that application.
Save in "exceptional circumstances", a pupil shall not be granted more than ten school days leave
of absence in any school year.
HOMEWORK/PARENTAL HELP
Children are encouraged to learn tables, spellings and new words, and to practice their
handwriting and reading at home (see guidance table below). The School will keep parents
informed of any other requirements. Parents may also wish to help teachers in the classroom, for
example with reading or library work as well as on school trips (see “Volunteers” on page 14 for
more information).
Year
R
1
2
3
4
5
6
ENGLISH
Letter sounds (10 minutes nightly)
Shared reading with an adult (15 minutes nightly)
Spellings (20 minutes weekly)
Reading to an adult (15 minutes nightly)
Spellings (½ hour weekly)
Reading to adult or alone (15 minutes nightly)
Spellings (½ hour weekly)
Reading to adult or alone (15 minutes nightly)
Spellings (½ hour weekly)
Reading for pleasure (15 minutes minimum nightly)
Spellings (½ hour weekly)
Reading for pleasure (15 minutes minimum nightly)
Spellings (½ hour weekly)
Reading for pleasure (15 minutes minimum nightly)
MATHS
Weekly 10-15 minutes
Times Tables (2-5 and 10)
Maths
Times Tables (2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10)
Maths
Maths: 30 minutes per week minimum
Times Tables (2-10)
Maths: 30 minutes per week minimum
Times Tables (2-10)
Maths: 30 minutes per week minimum
Times Tables (2-10)
9
INSURANCE
Parents involved in transporting children on school activities are advised to check with their
Insurance Companies that their insurance company is aware that they are using their vehicles for
School activities.
The school buys into the Schools Activities Travel policy arranged by Somerset County Council via
ACE Europe. The Policy provides travel insurance cover for all insured persons (pupils, teaching
and support staff, adult volunteers, helpers and assistants, and other authorised children) of
participating schools whilst on organised trips outside the designated school boundaries.
JEWELLERY/MAKE-UP
Children should not wear jewellery or make-up (including nail varnish) to school. If children do
have pierced ears small temporary studs may be worn however these must be removed or
covered for all PE lessons and swimming.
LOST PROPERTY
Items are retained at School for a reasonable length of time or until claimed; do please ask if your
child loses something.
LUNCHES
Children may bring a packed lunch to school or can order hot
meals. All meals are eaten in the classrooms under the
supervision of our Mid-Day staff. Liquids should be sent in an
unbreakable, leak-proof container - no fizzy drinks. Hot meals
are provided by ProServ and are currently priced at £2.60 per
day. Menus include a choice of meals, including a vegetarian
option, and pudding or a packed lunch. Meal orders should be
returned to the school by the Thursday preceding the week meals
are required.
Free School Meals are available for those children whose parents are on either Income Support;
Income Based Jobseekers Allowance; Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act,
1999; or receive Child Tax Credit, but are not entitled to a Working Tax Credit, and whose annual
joint income (as assessed by The Inland Revenue), does not exceed £16190.
MAYPOLE DANCING/SWORD DANCING
Maypole and sword dancing are main attractions at our annual May Fayre.
MEDICAL CHECKS
Regular visits are made to the School to check vision. Dental checks are also available. Children
with hearing problems will also be checked at School - please let us know if your child has a
hearing problem.
MINIBUS
The School owns two 17 seater minibuses which are used throughout the
year by the children. All seats have 3 point seatbelts and booster seats are
available for the smaller children. It is the policy of the school to ensure
that an additional adult travels on the bus with children whenever possible.
10
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Children throughout the school receive modern foreign language lessons (French or Spanish) with
a visiting teacher, Mrs. Claire Pickford.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT TUITION
Children in Years 2-6 are able to receive group or individual music tuition (guitar, keyboard, piano
or drums) from independent teachers who visit the School. This is a chargeable activity and
lessons vary in price and length – please enquire at the School Office if your child would like to
receive a lesson.
During the academic year 2012/13 children in years 3 and 4 received free clarinet lessons; in
2013/14 children in years 3 and 4 will receive free brass or string lessons.
At the end of the Spring Term each year we hold a Music Evening when children throughout the
school sing or play the wide variety of musical instruments they are learning.
Music Evening 2013
NEWSLETTERS
Newsletters are distributed regularly detailing diary dates for the forthcoming term and other
essential information. They are also available by email - please provide an address and we will be
happy to send letters electronically. All letters are also available for viewing on the School’s
website (www.northnewtonschool.co.uk).
OFSTED
The School received an Ofsted inspection on 26th and 27th May, 2010. We are delighted to report
that the main findings reported: “This is a good school. It has some outstanding features. It is
held in high regard in the local community and with parents and carers. There is an excellent and
very purposeful atmosphere within the School.” In January 2013 we received an Interim
Inspection saying we would not be inspected again until the summer of 2014 at the earliest. The
full report can be viewed at www.ofsted.gov.uk or on our website, www.northnewtonschool.co.uk.
Alternatively, you may wish to pick up a copy of the report from the School Office.
11
PARKING
Parking is limited at the School however we are able to use the village hall/pub car park at drop off
and pick up times. The safety of the children is paramount so please consider the following if
driving to school:
• Park safely and do not obstruct the view of children or other drivers.
• Never park on the zigzag lines, not even for a few seconds.
• Ensure your child is with you at all times in the car park and not playing around whilst cars are
coming and going.
Please be aware that the police do make regular visits.
PHOTOCOPIER
The School photocopier is available for private use at a cost of 10p per colour copy and 5p per
black and white copy.
POLICIES
The School has a large number of policies in place covering all aspects of school life. Policies are
regularly updated by governors and are available to view on the school website or in hard copy on
request.
SCHOOL COUNCIL
At North Newton School we encourage the children to contribute to the school’s development. A
School Council with representatives from children in Years 1-6 meets regularly to discuss a wide
variety of school issues.
SECURITY
The school has installed a security system to ensure the safety of pupils, staff and visitors. Access
to the school is through a controlled gate with entrance into the buildings via security fobs.
SWIMMING
All the children go to the St. James' Street Pool in Taunton regularly throughout the year. Careful
instruction is given at all levels and many attain a high standard, acquiring a good number of ASA
Awards. We ask for a voluntary contribution to cover costs, from September the charge will be
£2.00 per session as the school will be subsidising the cost using money received from a
Government PE grant.
From September 2013 the classes will swim as follows:
Foxes: Mondays/Tuesdays, 2.30-3.00 p.m.
Hedgehogs: Wednesdays, 1.30-2.00 p.m.
Squrirels: Thursday, 1.30-2.00 p.m.
Badgers: Fridays, 1.30-2.00 p.m.
12
TIMES OF SCHOOL SESSIONS
No child should arrive before 8.45 a.m. unless agreed with the class teacher and all children
should be in School by 8.55 a.m. at the latest so that a prompt start to lessons can begin at 9.00
a.m. School finishes at 3.15 p.m. throughout the year.
Session Times
9.00 a.m. - 10.40 a.m.
Break
10.55 a.m. - 12.10 p.m.
(Hedgehogs finish at 12.00 noon)
Lunch
1.10 p.m. - 3.15 p.m.
UNIFORM/PE KIT
There is a uniform at the School and parents are asked to send their children to School in uniform
as this will help to develop their sense of identity with the School. Items marked with an asterisk
(*) are available from the School, all other items can be purchased in local stores.
Navy blue sweatshirt (with logo)*
Navy blue cardigan (with logo)*
Dark grey or black trousers
Black/grey pinafore/skirt
White blouse/shirt or white polo shirt* (with logo)
Summer dress (blue/white check)
PE Kit
Black pull-on gym shoes (for Hedgehogs/Foxes Classes)
White plimsolls/trainers (for Squirrels and Badgers Classes)
White T-shirt/vest
Black/blue shorts
Please make sure that your child’s clothing is named.
13
VOLUNTEERS
At North Newton School we rely on the support of parents and friends. Help is required with
driving children to swimming lessons and also with excursions around the county as part of the
children’s topic work. It is necessary for any persons who have contact with children to obtain
police clearance through the Disclosure procedure. Any parents who would like to help should ask
for the appropriate form from the School Office. Parents/friends will not be allowed to help with the
children unless a Disclosure Certificate has been issued.
WATER BOTTLES
Children are encouraged to bring a water bottle to school each day and they are actively
encouraged to refill them at break times. Water bottles are available during all lessons, except in
lessons where this could have health and safety implications.
WEBSITE
The School website holds current information and photographs and is updated regularly. Details
of school term times, class visits, etc. can be found on www.northnewtonschool.co.uk.
14
WORKING WITH OTHERS
Each year we support a different charity and through the efforts of all the children, staff and
parents we raise funds at our annual Harvest Festival Sale. We have supported charities, such as
National Children’s Homes, Help the Aged, Lepra, Children in Need, Red Nose Day, Barnados,
Little Bridge House Children’s Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Appeal.
Children in Need November 2012
PARENT, TEACHERS' AND FRIENDS' ASSOCIATION
(PTFA)
We have an energetic PTFA which is responsible for organising a number of social and fundraising activities throughout the year; these include a May Fayre, Christmas Raffle, Leavers’ party,
Skittles and Disco. ALL parents with children attending this School are members and a
Committee of thirteen, of whom at least seven are parents, is elected annually.
We hope that all parents and staff will actively support the PTFA, thus promoting a greater
understanding of the work of the School and strengthening the bridge between School and home.
May King and Queen with the High Sheriff of Somerset, 2013
THE NEWT FESTIVAL
The Newt Festival is an annual event held in the fields surrounding Maunsel
House, North Newton. 2013 is the 22nd year of the Festival which attracts
thousands of visitors each year. The event boasts over 90 real ales and
bands play throughout the weekend. The School is delighted to receive a
percentage of any surplus funds that are generated at the Festival,
dependant on the number of hours worked by parents and friends of the
school. We operate a ‘credit card system’ whereby parents and friends who
work for the benefit of a child at North Newton School receive credit which
can be offset against swimming, school trips, after school clubs, etc. This
system cannot be guaranteed but it is our intention to operate this facility. We hope all parents
and their friends will support this event which provides so many additional extras for all our
children. Visit the Newt’s website on www.newtbeerfest.com.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 2000
The Freedom of Information Act requires publicly funded bodies, including schools, to be clear
about the information they publish. We have produced a publication scheme setting out all the
information we publish on a regular basis and where to find it. Please contact the school office if
you would like to see a copy of the scheme.
DFES regulations require the School to make certain items of information available at the School
to parents and the public. Copies of the following can be viewed at the School:
Statutory instruments and guidance about the curriculum and National Curriculum.
Published OFSTED reports on the School.
Schemes of work and syllabuses currently used by teachers in the School.
School policies.
CHARGING POLICY
The Education Reform Act 1988 prohibits schools from charging for:
education wholly or mainly during school hours;
materials and ingredients for things made in school which pupils or parents do not want to
keep;
visits in or outside school hours which are necessary for an examination.
Charges MAY be made for the following:
individual and group music tuition which is not part of the syllabus for an examination;
excursions where a third party is involved (sometimes);
board and lodging where a school activity involves a residential element;
the exact cost of 'optional extras', i.e. not connected directly with the National Curriculum.
Some School activities will only be possible if parents make a voluntary contribution, and where
this is the case parents will always be informed at the outset.
The above represents a brief summary of complex issues, and the School will always guarantee
that parents are fully informed of the conditions relating to requests for financial outlay in individual
cases.
DISCIPLINE
The code of conduct at the School is intended to encourage pupils to develop a respect for others
around them, and for books, equipment and the School as a whole. Pupils will be made aware of
a few basic rules when they start at the School, and they will be expected to act within these rules.
Where pupils break School rules, a variety of sanctions may be used, from the loss of free-time or
extra work to, in extreme cases, exclusion. It is obviously hoped that parents and teachers will be
able to prevent such extreme action becoming necessary.
HOW TO MAKE A COMPLAINT
We hope that any complaints that parents may have can be resolved by the School. Therefore
any complaints, in the first instance, should normally be made to the Headteacher, and it is hoped
that in most cases complaints will be dealt with at this informal level. If the complaint cannot be
resolved at local level (i.e. with the Headteacher) then the parent should subject his/her complaint
in writing to the Clerk to the Governors (who will acknowledge receipt of the complaint.
PROVISION FOR WITHDRAWAL FROM COLLECTIVE WORSHIP
Under the provisions of the Education Reform Act 1988 all parents have a right to withdraw their
child from the School's daily act of Collective Worship, or from Religious Education. (The School's
Religious Education curriculum is in accordance with the non-denominational Agreed Syllabus.)
Any parent wishing to withdraw a child from these elements of the curriculum should make a
written request through the Headteacher.
REMISSIONS
It is the policy of the Governing Body:
to remit charges for school activities to parents in receipt of Income Support; Income Based
Jobseekers Allowance; support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act, 1999; or
in receipt of Child Tax Credit and whose annual income, as assessed by The Inland
Revenue, does not exceed £16190.
To delegate to the Headteacher the determination of any individual case arising from the
implementation of the policy.
ADMISSIONS POLICY
HOW DECISIONS ARE MADE
The LEA is the admission authority for this School and places are allocated in accordance with
their published arrangements. A copy of these arrangements can be obtained by ringing
Parentline on (0845) 6045555. All calls are charged at local rates.
PLANNED ADMISSION NUMBER
Our Planned Admission Number for September 2013 is 16 - this means we are limited to
accepting this number of Reception children unless advised by the County Admissions team. In
2014 it will revert back to our original PAN of 12.
ADMISSON FOR PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES
Pupils with disabilities will be welcomed into the School and a School Entry Plan will be drawn up
to ensure their needs are met. Pupils with disabilities will be offered the same opportunities as
other pupils and included in all aspects of school life, subject to the necessary risk assessments
being carried out. The School has in place a dropped kerb, sloping entrance to the playground
and a hoist in the recently modified accessible toilet.
FIRST ADMISSION TO SCHOOL
If your child is at playgroup many of you will be considering the next stage of your child's life, their
starting school. I hope the following information will be of use to you in working out:
(i) when your child can actually start school.
(ii) how to get admission to the school of your choice.
(iii) how we at North Newton will be admitting your child.
WHEN CAN MY CHILD START SCHOOL
The law says that children are entitled to start school in the September following their 4th birthday.
In Somerset, children whose date of birth falls between 1st April and 31st August have the option of
deferring admission until the beginning of the spring term.
It is important that parents wanting to take up this option must still apply for a school place in the
normal way. A booklet is available that explains how to do this. If you have not received a
booklet, please contact the school office and one will be sent to you.
CHOOSING YOUR SCHOOL
i.
Make an appointment to look around the School. Our number is (01278)
662140 or you may call in and make personal contact.
ii.
After looking around, decide if the School is right for your child.
iii.
Fill in an admission form online - details will be sent to you directly from
the Admissions Team at County Hall.
NORTH NEWTON’S INDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS
i.
In the Summer Term prior to starting school the Reception Teacher, Mrs. Hogg, will often visit
playgroup and meet the children. She may also make a home visit by mutual arrangement to
meet both parent and child.
ii. In July your child will come for two afternoons to get used to school. Full details are sent to
parents in advance.
iii. From September 2013 children may attend full-time however part-time can be arranged if this
is beneficial to your child. We can be flexible in our arrangements if it is felt your child is not
ready for the amount of time in School that we are allocating.
PREPARING FOR SCHOOL
All parents are understandably eager to help their children during the early years at school. Below
are a few suggestions:
If you have any worries or concerns please speak to the teacher or make an appointment and
come into School to discuss the problem with us. Try not to apply pressure on your child over
school work, e.g. reading, homework, etc. make it fun and rewarding for all concerned.
Parents will be eager to help their children to adjust to being at School, and listed below are a
number of suggestions as to how parents can prepare their child for School:
Children should be able:
to dress/undress on their own,
to attend to their own toilet needs,
to recognise their own name,
to use pencils and crayons.
Your child will make a good start if he or she is used to being with other children (playgroup is a
great help) and is used to accepting authority from adults other than parents. New admissions are
encouraged to spend a little time with us in the Summer Term before starting in September.
Do as much as you can to develop your child's vocabulary as this will be of great help in learning
to read.
Learning to write will be assisted by activities which develop fine motor control; for example,
drawing, tracing, painting, even scribbling, working with plasticine and helping with cooking.
Counting games and nursery rhymes, skipping and ball games will all begin to develop skills
before children reach school age. The concepts of playing and fair play, within broad rules, will
also be started.
SPEECH
A few children reach school age with a specific problem and, if not already diagnosed, specialist
help is available. However, there are also some who come to School having already formed
incorrect habits or patterns in their speech. For example, 'th' is spoken as an 'f' or 'l' sound; 'd'
sounds like a 't'; and 'd' and 'b' are confused. Whilst fully respecting the local patterns of speech
and dialects, it is better for the child if some errors are avoided. Further advice is always available.
YOUR CHILD'S NEXT SCHOOL
At the age of eleven children will transfer to Secondary Education. In the Autumn before a child is
due to transfer, the LEA will send parents particulars of all the schools available. To ensure that
the transfer from primary to secondary education is an easy one, each child's abilities and
attainments are discussed with the comprehensive schools concerned. Comprehensive school
teachers will meet with the leavers and their class teachers, and the children will visit their new
school in the Summer term before the transfer takes place.
In 2013 our children will transfer to the following Schools - Robert Blake Science College,
Haygrove School, Bishop Fox’s Community School, Heathfield Community School.
Free transport may be provided to "The Robert Blake Science College", which is our catchment
area school and with whom our liaison is strongest.
CONCLUSION
No publication, however comprehensive, can hope to answer every query which a prospective
parent may have about a School but, at the same time, we hope that main ideas and themes upon
which the School is based are apparent. We would therefore ask that, having spoken with the
Head and Staff and looked around the building and its grounds, you will feel free to contact the
School again if any further information is required. An Admission Form, to be completed on behalf
of each new entrant, may be obtained upon request at the School.
The information supplied in this Handbook was correct at the time of its production. Changes in
staff and other factors may, of course, alter the arrangements in School before your child can be
admitted. Upon request the Head will be happy to appraise any prospective parent of anything
which may have altered, or is likely to change in the foreseeable future.
Somerset School Terms and Holidays
2013/2014 Academic Year
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
September 2013
1
8 15 22 29
2
9 16 23 30
3 10 17 24
4 11 18 25
5 12 19 26
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
December
1
8 15
2
9 16
3 10 17
4 11 18
5 12 19
6 13 20
7 14 21
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
2013
22 29
23 30
24 31
25
26
27
28
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
March 2014
2
9 16
3 10 17
4 11 18
5 12 19
6 13 20
7 14 21
8 15 22
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
June 2014
8 15 22
9 16 23
10 17 24
11 18 25
12 19 26
13 20 27
14 21 28
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
29
30
Key:
School holiday
Bank holiday
Inset Day
30
31
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
4
5
October 2013
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
8 15 22 29
9 16 23 30
10 17 24 31
11 18 25
12 19 26
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
November
3 10
4 11
5 12
6 13
7 14
1
8 15
2
9 16
1
2
3
4
January 2014
5 12 19 26
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
8 15 22 29
9 16 23 30
10 17 24 31
11 18 25
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
February
2
9
3 10
4 11
5 12
6 13
7 14
1
8 15
1
2
3
4
5
April 2014
6 13 20
7 14 21
8 15 22
9 16 23
10 17 24
11 18 25
12 19 26
1
2
3
4
5
July 2014
6 13 20
7 14 21
8 15 22
9 16 23
10 17 24
11 18 25
12 19 26
27
28
29
30
27
28
29
30
31
2013
17 24
18 25
19 26
20 27
21 28
22 29
23 30
2014
16 23
17 24
18 25
19 26
20 27
21 28
22
May 2014
4 11 18
5 12 19
6 13 20
7 14 21
8 15 22
9 16 23
10 17 24
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
August 2014
3 10 17
4 11 18
5 12 19
6 13 20
7 14 21
1
8 15 22
2
9 16 23
Term date summary:
Term 1:
2 September - 25 October 2013 (40 days)
Term 2:
4 November - 20 December 2013 (35 days)
Term 3:
6 January - 14 February 2014 (30 days)
Term 4:
24 February - 4 April 2014 (30 days)
Term 5:
22 April - 23 May 2014 (23 days)
Term 6:
2 June - 22 July 2014 (37 days)
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL = 195
Bank and public holidays 2013/2014
Christmas Day
Boxing Day
New Year’s Day
Good Friday
25 December 2013
26 December 2013
1 January 2014
18 April 2014
Easter Monday
May Day Holiday
Spring Bank Holiday
Summer Bank Holiday
21 April 2014
5 May 2014
26 May 2014
25 August 2014
Start date for the 2014/2015 academic year: Monday 1 September 2014