Francis Baily School Prospectus 13 14

8/13/2019 Francis Baily School Prospectus 13 14

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Francis Baily Primary School

Prospectus 2013/14


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Francis Baily Primary School Prospectus 2013/14

www.francisbaily.co.uk 2

Introduction

A warm welcome to Francis Baily School. At Francis Baily we expect the best of ourselves and aim for the

highest possible standards. Our school enjoys the support of parents, governors and the wider

community. We are proud of our confident, caring and self-disciplined pupils who rise to challenges and

make the most of every opportunity offered.

I hope you find this prospectus useful. If you have any questions or queries, please get in touch with us

and we will be happy to help.

C Davis

Chris Davis

Headteacher

Contents

About Us 3

Our Vision 4

Our Definition of Learning 5

School Profile 6

School Governors 8

Parents & Teachers Association 9

School Volunteers 9

Life at Francis Baily 10

The School Day 11

Attendance 12

Homework 13

Your Childs Health 14

Behaviour 15

Home School Partnership 16

School Meals 17

School Uniform 18

Out of Hours Clubs 20

After School Activities 21

Admissions 22

The School Curriculum 23

The School Council 25

Special Education Needs 26

Term Dates 27

Term Dates 28

Staff and Classes 29

Staff and Classes 30

Contact Us 31

Contact Us 32


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About Us


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Our Vision

At Francis Baily, we provide a caring and safe learning environment in which children develop pride and respect for themselves

and others and enjoy their learning. At Francis Baily we aim to:

Encourage each child to have a sense of respect for themselves and others and teach them to take responsibility forand make decisions about their learning, development and behaviour

Foster and encourage self-confidence, self-belief and independence both socially and academically and to participatewithout fear of failure

Promote a learning culture which provides a broad, stimulating curriculum and celebrates achievement and effort Develop positive values and a strong sense of community and to value and promote the partnership between home

and school Encourage each child to make their own choices in order to live a healthy, well balanced life Provide a stimulating, safe and secure learning environment which recognises individuality and inspires children to

make a difference.

Laura Jones, Year 5 (2010)

Francis Baily Primary School is committed to safeguarding children and young peopleand for ensuring they are protected from harm.

Partici ate

EnjoyLearn

Achieve


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Our Definition of Learning

We believe learning is an active process, acquiring knowledge skills and understanding through which we make sense of our

world.

At Francis Baily, learning looks like this: Active Creative FocusedLearners demonstrate they are:

Persevering Questioning Explaining

How do you know if someone

is learning? They can explain

their work. They will want to find

out more. They get the objective

correct.

Learning is something you

feel proud of.Learning is listening to others

listening and understanding.

You can tell someone

is learning when you

can see they are

struggling.

What the children say!

Learning is like a

silent voice.Learning boosts and

builds confidence.


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School Profile

Headteacher Chair of Governors

Mr Chris Davis (BEd Hons, NPQH) Asa Parker

Deputy Headteachers Local Authority

Mr Neil Pilsworth (BA Hons) West Berkshire

Miss Antonia Monks (BA Hons)

Assistant Headteacher/Inclusion Manager School Business Manager

Mrs Katy Higgs (BA Hons) Mrs Carolyn Tilbury (CSBM/DSBM)

Type of School

A well maintained community primary school (with Foundation Unit) which caters for girls and boys from 4 to 11 years of age.

Number of Pupils

525

Facilities

The children are able to enjoy our extensive school grounds, including three playground areas (as well as a large outdoor area

for the Foundation Stage pupils), an outdoor classroom, a sports field (shared with Kennet School) and a well appointed library,

all helping to provide an attractive environment for learning.

History

Francis Baily School first opened its doors to admit pupils in 1913 and has been educating the

children of the local community ever since.

The school was named after the English astronomer, Francis Baily, who was born in 1774 and

grew up in Thatcham. He wrote many articles and became an outstanding leader in his field,becoming the first president of the British Astronomical Society. During a solar eclipse, Francis

Baily observed the light display that became known as Bailys Beads, which is depicted in the

schools logo.

Although he became a famous and influential figure in his day, Francis Baily never forgot the

importance of his family and his roots. When he was offered a final resting-place in

Westminster Abbey, he chose instead to be buried next to his parents at St Marys Church in

Thatcham. He is therefore a good role model for our pupils.

Ofsted

Francis Baily Primary School was last inspected in July 2011 with an overall rating of Good.

Intake

Francis Baily takes in 75 pupils every school year.

Organisation

Designed to be flexible and sustainable, Francis Baily is organised into departments so that a friendly and secure environment

can be created for all pupils.

Department Age of Children National Curriculum Year Group

Foundation Unit 45 years old Foundation

Lower Key Stage 1 56 years old Year 1

Upper Key Stage 1 67 years old Year 2

Lower Key Stage 2 79 years old Years 3 and 4

Upper Key Stage 2 911 years old Years 5 and 6


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The five school departments all occupy quite distinct areas of the school.

Each department in the school works as a team. Each year group has three mixed ability classes. In Years 5 and 6 there are two

classes of Year 5s, two classes of Year 6 and a mixed Year 5 and 6 class. They are organised in slightly different ways to reflect

the needs of the children, the skills of the teachers and the demands of the curriculum. We hold evening meetings for parents

when their children change from one team to another so that we can explain the organisation in detail and provide other

useful information.


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School Governors

The school governors, like a companys board of directors, have the general responsibility for the effective management of th e

school, acting within the framework of Government legislation and West Berkshire Local Authority policies. Detailed decisions

about the day to day running of the school are taken by the Headteacher who reports to, and consults with, the governing

body on a regular basis.

Meeting once a month, our governors have statutory legal duties, powers and responsibilities to decide what is taught (the

curriculum), set standards of behaviour, appoint staff and decide how the school budget is spent. Governors are also involved

in the life of the school by attending events, meetings with staff and parents and maintaining good communications at all

times. They also help to provide a high standard of education and strive to ensure that our pupils are given the best possible

foundation for their future education and life in the community.

The Instrument of Government for the school sets out the exact size and composition of the governing body. The schools

governing body currently consists of:

Four parent governors (elected by parents of children at the school) Two Local Authority governors (appointed by West Berkshire Council) Three staff governors (Headteacher, plus two governors elected by staff members) Three community governors (elected by governing body members) The chair and vice chair of governors are elected annually by the whole governing body.We currently have a full complement of parent governors, but if a position becomes vacant the school will invite parents

to apply.

Membership

Our board of governors is currently made up as follows:

Name Type of governor

Chairtbc

Vice-Chairtbc

HeadteacherChris Davis

Rashida Samsudin

Tina Skipworth

Andy James

Helen Sayers

Sharon Briggs

Gary Collins

Asa Parker

Emma Tompkins

Rev Ken Franklin

Dr Steve West

Pauline Ford

Staff Governor

Staff Governor

Staff Governor

Local Authority Governor

Local Authority Governor

Parent Governor

Parent Governor

Parent Governor

Parent Governor

Community Governor

Community Governor

Clerk to Governors

Policies

The school adheres to over 80 policies detailing such areas as Behaviour, First Aid, Health and Safety and Curriculum. Copies of

the main policies are available from the school office and on theschool website.

Minutes of meetings

Approved minutes of meetings of the Governing Body for the last two years are available in accordance with the Freedom of

Information Act on theschool website.
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Parents and Teachers Association

As a parent of a child in this school you are automatically a member of the Francis Baily Parent Teachers Association (PTA), a

voluntary body that supports the school on both social and financial levels. Active participation is both welcomed and much

appreciated by staff and children alike.

The PTA is run by a committee elected at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the beginning of each school year, and

members usually meet once every six weeks to organise fundraising and social activities. PTA fundraising events include

regular Junior Discos (for children in Lower and Upper Key Stage 2), the Christmas and Summer Fairs, Car Boot Sales and many

other activities, such as Quiz Nights and Pamper Evenings.

So whether you support the PTA as a committee member or helper, or just turn up to the events, you are helping to provide

our school with valuable resources to give all our children the best education possible.

Our PTA committee is made up of the following members:

PTA Committee MembersChair Amanda Day

Vice-ChairJo Livings

TreasurerSue Beasley

Secretary Lynne Phillips

To contact the PTA please email the school [email protected]

School VolunteersWe recognise the many skills that our parents have and you are always welcome as volunteer helpers, working alongside the

children in school on an occasional or regular basis. Note: regular helpers may be requested to undergo a CRB check. Please

contact the office for further information.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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Life at

Francis Baily


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The School Day

The schools daily timetable is as follows:

Activity Foundation Key Stage 1 Lower Key Stage 2 Upper Key Stage 2

Doors open 8.45am 8.45am 8.45am 8.45am

School day starts with registration 8.55am 8.55am 8.55am 8.55am

Lunch break 12.001.00pm 12.001.00pm 12.201.20pm 12.301.30pm

School day ends * 3.10pm 3.15pm 3.20pm 3.20pm

*Please be on time to pick your children up if you do think you are going to be late for any reason, please telephone the office

and we will keep your child at the school office until you arrive. If you regularly need to pick your children later than the end of

the school day please make use of the Out of Hours Club.

Getting to School

We encourage all children to walk or cycle to school but if the children are brought to school by car, please drive carefully and

considerately and have respect for our neighbours. Please do not park in front of private driveways. Parents are responsible

for their children until school starts and at the end of the school day.

We have a dedicated cycle rack to the right of the main school gates where scooters may also be left. Please do not let pupils

cycle or scooter around the school site.

Registration

Registration is at 8.55am. Children who arrive after the register is closed will be marked late and recorded as an unauthorised

absence.

Lunchtime

Children can either have school meals freshly cooked in school or packed lunches.

Find out more about our school meals, including the menu, on our website or at the school office.

Snacks and Drinks

Children are encouraged to bring a healthy snack for morning break. Foundation and Year 1 and 2 children will receive a free

piece or fruit every morning under the Government Healthy Eating Initiative.

All children are asked to bring a bottle of water daily, clearly marked with their name, and will be encouraged to drink regularly

throughout the day.

Out of Hours Clubs

We run daily Breakfast Clubs from 8.00 to 8.55am and After School Clubs from 3:20pm to 6:00pm(see page 22 for more

details).

We also run a number of extra-curriculum clubs. For further information about our school clubs please contact the schooloffice or look at ourschool website.

School Closure

Very occasionally, due to extreme weather conditions (such as heavy snow) or failure of key services (such as heating, water or

electricity), it may be necessary to close the school. In these circumstances, we aim to inform parents as quickly as possibly by

text message, posting information on our website or recording a message on the school answer-machine. Announcements will

also be made on local radio stations such as BBC Radio Berkshire and Heart FM102.9.
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Attendance

After 8.55am when the outside doors have closed, children can enter school via the office. However, this willconstitute as a late mark and consequently recorded as an unauthorised absence

If your child is unable to attend school please phone on the morning of absence and leave a messagewe have adedicated absence line for you to record this information

Any dental/medical appointments should, if possible, be made after school hours or during the holidays but if this isnot possible then please let us know about these appointments in advance, as soon as possible

If you need to take a holiday during term time you will need complete a holiday form but we do not advise any termtime absence as it can have a detrimental effect on your childs education and their friendships.


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Homework

At Francis Baily, we believe regular homework supports your childs learning, fosters links between home and school life, helps

to promote your childs self-discipline and independence in learning, as well as helping to establish good working habits. Small

amounts of homework will be sent home and the quantity increases with age (please see class pages for this).

Typical homework activities include:

Research and project work for a topic in IPC (International Primary Curriculum) Regular reading English and Maths Learning number bonds (addition to 10), times tables and spellings Sentence construction linked to spellings.We aim to ensure that there is a progression in both the type and quantity of homework through the school. Guidelines and

timetables will be sent home at the start of each academic year, and each child is provided with a home/school diary. Please

request the Homework policy from the school office or available from theschool website www.francisbaily.co.uk.
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Your Childs Health

We have fully-qualified first aiders in school. If your child becomes unwell at school and needs collection we will contact the

first or main registered parent or carer. If your child has been unwell and needs to take medicine prescribed by your

Doctor, we can administer it. However, the medicine must be delivered in person to the office, labelled with your child's name,

and you will need to complete a medical form. We are unable to administer any medicine which is not prescribed.

In the unfortunate event of illness or an accident occurring during the school day we will contact you and if necessary ask you

to collect your child from school. Note: Your child will not be allowed to leave unaccompanied even if they usually walk home

on their own.

If the accident is minor we will send an accident report home with the child notifying parents of the details. Note: If the bump

is to your child's head, we will put a sticker on their jumper so everyone is aware should there be any further health problems

that dayobviously if we are concerned in any way we will contact you.

It is of course essential that in case of an emergency we are able to contact you. Please ensure we have an up-to-date number

for home or work and that we are notified immediately of any change. We normally remind each parent to update their

records at the beginning of the new school year.

At the start of each school year, parents need to complete a newmedical form authorising our staff to administer regular

medicines (e.g. Asthma inhalers etc.) on their behalf. Note: Please remember that it is the parents responsibility, n ot the

schools, to ensure that all medicines/Epipens/Inhalers etc. given to school to administer are in date.
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Behaviour

At Francis Baily we believe that a positive approach to the management of behaviour promotes self-discipline and self-worth,

thereby enabling our children to learn successfully and become responsible members of the school community. There are rules

in the school, but they are there for good reason. Children who break these rules will receive a consequence. This may take the

form of loss of playtimes or privileges. Constant breaking of these rules will result in a discussion with the parents which shouldresolve the matter but in extreme circumstances may result in exclusion. Please read our Behaviour Policy which is available

from the school office or on theschool website.

We have school Golden Rules (see Behaviour Policy) and classroom rules that we expect all the pupils to follow and these are

supported by rewards and consequences.
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Home School Partnership

We firmly believe that effective education is based on a three-way partnership between teachers, pupils and parents. The role

of the parent is crucial to enable their child to reach their full potential. We genuinely try to involve parents as fully as possible

in all aspects of school life. This may be by helping your child at home, helping in school or supporting the PTA. If you can help,

please do.

We value regular dialogue with our pupils, parents and wider community and use the following communication channels:

Channel Explanation

Induction For new Foundation children - we like to meet the child and both parents at home prior to starting

school. Dates for this will be agreed with you.

Parents Evenings An opportunity to discuss your childs progress and set and review individual targets with your childs

teacher. We provide two formal evenings each year. (We provide extra time for those parents of

children with SEN).

Information Evenings Occasionally we host information evenings to update parents on new topics, such as a change to the

curriculum.

IPC Exit and Entry

Points

These are usually held at the end of the day and are a chance for the children to celebrate and share

their learning with you.

Written Report At the end of the summer term, we will provide parents with a written report detailing childs progress,

attainment and identifying their next steps in learning. We also provide a short summary report at the

end of both the Autumn and Spring terms with targets, assessment and attendance information.

Meet the Teacher Our teachers are always happy to see parents to discuss any issues or concerns. If you wish to speak to

your childs teacher during normal school times, please telephone the office to make an appointment

or contact the teacher concerned directly. Most staff are available at the end of the school day.

In July we hold Meet the Teacher evenings where you get to see your childs new class teacher and

the new class organisation is explained.

Home/School diary A home/school diary is sent home with each pupil and is used to record reading and other homework.

When you have checked the work your child has completed, we ask parents to initial the diary and

make sure that it is returned each day. Teachers check the diaries regularly and will sometimes write a

message. You may also use the diary to send messages to your childs teacher but please do not send

urgent messages or any about picking up your child from school as this cannot be relied on.

Newsletters These are sent out regularly to share with you many developments, events and diary dates. These will

also be posted on the website and can be emailed to you if you are signed up to Parentmail.

Text messages We send text messages to parents if there is an emergency school closure or club cancellations.

If we feel your child is having difficulties of any kind, we will contact you. Similarly, if you are unhappy or concerned please

drop us an email, give us a ring or make an appointment to see one of us. We look forward to working with you and will

always try to help with your concerns.


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School Meals

Since September 2012, our school catering service has been delivered by ISS (West Berkshire's new school meals provider). All

meals are 95% fresh with food sourced locally, including a high proportion of organic products, and there will be opportunities

during this academic year for parents to join their child for a hot lunch to try the lunch out too. Check out the full menu on the

school website.

Paying for School Meals

Payment is easy and must be paid in advance as ISS does not offer any credit facility. You can choose to pay online or by cash

or cheque, as detailed below:

Pay Online

It is very straight forward. Once you'veregistered to make online payments(available from 1 September 2012) you will receive

two email confirmations:

1) to confirm your registration

2) to confirm the accounts activation and your ability to make payments into it.

Youpay for your child's lunch onlinevia Cypad, the online payment system. Simply select 'West Berkshire' and the link will takeyou direct to the secure website. Once your account has credit, you will be able to order your childs meals online or they w ill

be able to place their order electronically in the classroom.

Pay by Cash or Cheque

To pay by cash or cheque, please ensure that payment is placed in an envelope, clearly marked with your child's full name,

class and the amount enclosed, and hand it to the school office. Cheques should be made payable to ISS Education and have

your child's name and class written on its reverse.

Further Information

Please don't hesitate to get in touch by calling ISS on 0845 057 6487, or [email protected]

Eligible for Free School Meals?

If you are in receipt of income support or the income based job seekers allowance, your child is entitled to receive a free

school meal. The process is very straightforward. Please contact West Berkshire Council (01635 42400) who will take you

through the procedure or apply online atwww.westberks.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals.Please register as the school receives

additional resources based on the number of children eligible for free meals. Note: You may also be entitled to pay reduced

contributions for extracurricular activities such as school trips if you have registered.

Special Dietary Requirements

Some children may have specific dietary needs (e.g. for medical or religious reasons). If this is the case, pleasecontact the

school office.

Packed Lunches

We have a Healthy School Policy and as such ask that packed lunches reflect this ethos. Therefore, please do not include fizzy

or soft sugary drinks (water, milk or pure juices preferred) or sweets/chocolate based snacks in your child's lunch box and think

again before including salty snacks. Please also do not include nuts (or Peanut Butter) in your child's lunch box as some

school children have nut allergies.

School Milk

Pupils are entitled to free milk up to their fifth birthday. At Francis Baily, we'd like all our children in Foundation to be able to

drink milk throughout their time in this year and therefore we have decided that this will be paid for by the school.
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School Uniform

All pupils attending Francis Baily are expected to wear the full school uniform, which is clearly labelled, as detailed below. Its

an important part of our school identity, which ensures our pupils feel part of a team and take a pride in their appearance. Our

uniform items are available from:

Trutex Schoolwear

13 Bartholomew Street, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5LL

Telephone:01635 38285

Opening hours:MondaySaturday 9.00 am5.30 pm; Sundays (during the summer only) 10.30 am4.30 pm.

There is also a second-hand uniform shop run by the PTA open in the Small hall on Friday afternoons at 3.00pm.

Category School uniform requirements

Boys White polo shirt (with or without the school logo) Bottle green polo shirt (with the school logo) - new from October 2012 Bottle green round neck sweatshirt with the school logo Grey tailored trousers Grey tailored shorts White or grey socks Appropriate black school shoes

Girls White polo shirt (with or without the school logo) Bottle green polo shirt (with the school logo) - new from October 2012 Bottle green round neck sweatshirt or V-neck sweatshirt cardigan with the school logo Grey skirt/pinafore dress Grey tailored trousers Grey tailored shorts (these must not be tiny, hot-pants style shorts) Green gingham dress (summer term only)* Grey, black or green tights White or grey socks Appropriate (flat) black school shoes

Foundation The same as the main school uniform, with the option of Bottle Green jogging bottoms Trainers with Velcro fastenings for outdoor wear Black slip on pumps for indoor wear

PE Kit (All pupils)** Francis Baily green t-shirt Black shorts Black track suit (winter term only) Gym shoes (black pumps) or trainers Francis Baily PE bag

* The summer uniform may be worn from the start of the term after the Easter holiday and up until the October holiday.

** This must be labelled, in the school PE bag and at school every day.

Coats and hats

Coats, shower proof jackets, fleece jackets* Hats*baseball caps, winter hats and gloves are also available from the Schoolwear shop but are not compulsory A range of other optional school green or logod items are also available from the Schoolwear shop.*Our pupils are able to wear any colour coat or hat to school.

Bags

School book bag is available from the Schoolwear shop Small rucksack


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Not permitted

Trainers (except for PE), boots, open-toed sandals or high heels Jewellery, except a watch and/or a single plain stud earring in either or both ears if ears are pierced (pupils are

responsible for these at all times

No makeup or nail varnish No unnatural hair colours or unconventional hair styles.Fashion and availability of items from the high street change rapidly and it is not possible to cater for every possibility with our

uniform policy. Therefore the school reserves the right to decide what is and what is not allowed.


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Out of Hours Clubs

We recognise that many of our parents are both in full time employment and juggling care before and after school can be

challenging. That's why we run two daily clubs to help. Charged at very reasonable rates during term time, our aim is to

provide a safe, happy environment for your child to start their day in school or to relax in at the end of the school day. With

both our clubs, registers are taken and our attendees are signed in and out.

Our Breakfast Club

Opens at 8:00am daily and held in the dining hall at the front of the school. Breakfast consists of a choice of cereal, toast,

crumpets, fromage frais, raisins or fruit with fruit juice or milk to drink. After breakfast the children have a variety of board

games, colouring, beads and toys to choose from and play with. At 8:40am, the children are asked to help tidy away their

activities before being escorted to their classrooms.

Our After School Clubs

After School Clubs run from 3:15 - 6:00pm daily, with a half session available between 3:15 and 4:15pm daily). The Lower Club,

held in the Foundation Unit, is for pupils in Foundation to Year 2 and the Upper Club for children in Years 3 to 6 is held in Year 5

and 6 modular classrooms. Children are first welcomed with a drink and a snack and are then free to choose activities such as

playing with games and building kits or to go outside onto the playground or field. At around 4.30pm the children are

assembled and are offered sandwiches or toast together with fruit and a drink. They then help to tidy away before resuming

playing. Note: Pupils who attend extra-curricular activities can have their meals reserved until they arrive at After School Club.

Payment is payable monthly in advance, ideally by cheque or internet banking - details supplied upon application. Childcare

Vouchers are also accepted. Cancellation requires one month's notice.

Depending on availability, we are also able to offer single or one-off 'drop in' sessions. Pleasecontact the school officeif youwould like to register your child for either club or to find out the costs.
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After School Activities

At Francis Baily, we offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities offered to children by staff on a voluntary basis. Some clubs

are run by outside agencies and fees may be applicable. Activities are available throughout the year unless otherwise stated.

For further information, please contact the school office. (The Breakfast and After School Clubs are a paid childcare service we

run separatelysee page 22).

Below is an example timetable showing a selection of activities that take place during the school year. The term timetables can

be found on ourschool website.

Activity Day Venue Time Year Group Run by Max No.

Netball Monday UKS2/ court 15.30 - 16.15 Yr 4/5/6 Miss Sampson

(Mrs Merrell)

30

Homework Tuesday UKS2 15.20 - 16.10 Yr 5/6 UKS2 Teachers 90

Drama Tuesday Main Hall 15.20 - 16.15 Yr 3/4/5/6 Mrs Ardagh-Walter 20

Gardening Tuesday UKS2 3.204.15 Yr3/4/5/6 Mrs Ross/Mrs

McFarlane

12

Football Wednesday UKS2/Field 15.20 - 16.30 Yr 5/6 Mr Pilsworth/

Mr Ong

22

Digismart Wednesday UKS2 15.305.00 Yr5 Miss Monks 12

Craft Wednesday UKS2 15.204.10 Yr 5/6 Mrs Ross 16

Gymnastics Wednesday Main Hall 15.3016.30 KS2 Miss Wright 12

Recorder Thursday LKS2 12.30 - 12.50 Yr 4/5/6 Mrs Jones 10

Cross Country Thursday UKS2/Field 15.30 - 16.15 Yr 5/6 Miss Marshall/MrsStelfox

18

Rugby Thursday Field 15.20 - 16.15 Yr 4 Miss Green 16

Newspaper Thursday LKS2 15.20 - 16.15 Yr 6 Mrs Sherratt/Miss

Samsudin

8

Rounders Friday Field 15.3016.30 Yr 5/6 Mrs Field 20

Cricket Friday Field 15.3016.30 Yr 5/6 Mr Davies 20
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Admissions

The school can accommodate approximately 525 pupils. We currently admit 75 children into each new school year group.

West Berkshires policy is to admit children in the academic year they are five. The Councils Admissions & Transport Team co-

ordinates the admissions process for all West Berkshire residents. To apply for a school place for your child you must complete

the relevant application form (not school registration/application forms)available from the councils website;http://www.westberks.gov.ukor by contacting the team by email:[email protected] Tel: 01635 519771/519780.

A School Admissions Guide is produced each year in October by the council for parents applying for their child to start school in

the following academic year. The guide includes all the information you need to make your application.

We also encourage parents to register their child directly with our school in addition to completing the councils application

forms. Whilst this does not guarantee your child a place at our school as the Local Authority allocates places not the school, by

registering your child with us enables us to invite you to our Open Days during the Autumn term. Children are admitted in line

with current Local Authority policy and come from within and beyond our designated area. When applications exceed the

number of places available, the following categories of over-subscription criteria for West Berkshire community schools are

used to prioritise applications:

Children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs Vulnerable pupils Catchment area pupils Siblings Linked partner school pupils Denominational/Non-denominational requests Strong social grounds All other applicants.The Foundation Year (FS2) are taught in our purpose built Foundation Unit. We admit children from a number of local nursery

and playgroups. Every effort is made to make entry into our school smooth and happy. For further information on the

admissions procedures or how to appeal if you are not offered a place please contact the school officeor the West Berkshire

Council Admissions & Transport team.

Admissions Timetable Activity

September

(prior to childs 5th

birthday)

Francis Bailys open days take place to which all parents of pupils due to be admitted in the

following academic year are invited.

Note: If you have registered your child with us, you will automatically be invited. If your child is

not registered, please let us have your details bringing a copy of their birth certificate so that an

invitation can be sent to you. If you cannot attend these open days, or your child is due to be

admitted to another year group or at another time, please contact us so that we can arrange for

you to visit the school at a more convenient time.September/October West Berkshire Councils application form is available online and information is sent to

prospective parents. The closing date for 2013-2014 admissions is 15 January 2013. A School

Admissions Guide is published in October for prospective parents.

April Offers are made to all West Berkshire applicants on 16 April and these are available on-line.

September Children who are five between 1 September and 31 August (inclusive) begin full time but on a

staggered entry during the second week in September.

Note: Places can be deferred until statutory school age (the beginning of the term after their fifth birthday) but the majority of

children begin school in September.
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The School Curriculum

We offer all children a curriculum which is broad, balanced and differentiated. We aim for our pupils to be given the

opportunity to achieve their best in an atmosphere of encouragement, where they feel valued and their individual strengths

are recognised and developed. We enable our pupils to become self-reliant and self-motivated, showing respect and

consideration for others, as well as equip them with skills and attitudes which they will need for life-long learning.

Foundation

In the Foundation year, the children follow the Foundation Stage curriculum, which covers seven areas of learning:

Personal, social and emotional development Communication and language Literacy Mathematics Understanding the world Physical Development Expressive Arts and DesignThe learning opportunities planned for the children involve a balance of child-initiated and adult directed activities. It is a very

practical approach that is appropriate for their stage of intellectual development. Through this the children acquire all the

basic skills.

Key Stages 1 and 2

From Year 16, we provide a broad and balanced curriculum that covers the statutory requirements of the National

Curriculum. The subjects taught are:

Subject Explanation

English We use the Primary Strategy as a basis for the teaching of English and equal importance is given to

developing childrens skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. All lessons are differentiated so the

learning can be aimed at the needs of all children in order to maximise the impact. Pupils are encouragedto read widely and our reading scheme uses a simple, graded, colour-coded system, which runs

throughout the school.

Maths Maths lessons are differentiated as they are for English. Our aim is to enable our pupils to be competent

in all basic number skills with an emphasis on developing good mental arithmetic strategies. This will

enable them to understand mathematical concepts, solve problems and apply logical thought and

reasoning in abstract ways. From September 2012 we are adopting the Maths Makes Sense (MMS)

scheme for teaching maths.

IPC Most Science, History and Geography are taught through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) units.

ICT We have an increasing range of ICT equipment including laptops for pupils, interactive whiteboards andvisualisers. All classrooms have access to the Internet and one Upper Key Stage 2 classroom has been

fitted with purpose-built desks with inbuilt PCs, monitors and keyboards that can be revealed or concealed

at the touch of a button. ICT is taught both as a distinct subject and is used in other areas of the curriculum

to enhance learning. We are currently developing ourOpenHive Learning Platformand encouraging pupils

to make use of online resources for projects as well as using educational sites such as Purple Mash,

MangaHigh etc. to enhance their learning.

The Arts The Arts include music, art and drama and are taught throughout the school in class groups either as

distinct lessons or part of a topic, specialist day or arts week. There are also many opportunities for

children to take part in concerts and performances, which in turn build confidence. The school has been

awarded Artsmark Gold for its excellent work in this area.

PE The children have lessons in gym, dance and games. There are a number of sports clubs and teams which

older children are encouraged to join.
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PSHE The development of pupils personal, social and health education (PSHE) is as important as their academic

development. Whilst we teach a specific programme of PSHE, the general ethos and life of the school plays

a fundamental role in the all-round development of pupils. The taught programme of PSHE runs

throughout the school covering aspects of health and safety education, citizenship, environmental

education and self-awareness. All classes use discussion (or circle) time to explore issues arising in the

classroom and playtimes. The school has achieved the Healthy Schools Award in recognition of its work in

this area.

Sex and

Relationships

Education(SRE)

Up to and including Year 4, this is taught through science and topic work and takes the form of learning

about the body and its functions. In Years 5 and 6 more formal sex education takes place and covers

aspects of human reproduction and puberty. Parents have the right to withdraw their child from the Year

5 and 6 programme.

Religious

Education (RE)

Religious education (RE) follows the local Agreed Syllabus. It teaches knowledge and understanding of a

number of faiths. RE is taught in the classroom and through assemblies where moral themes are also used.

Parents who wish to withdraw their children from assemblies may do so but not from RE Lessons.

However, assemblies are an important feature of school life and every effort is made to make them

relevant and accessible to all children.

Modern Foreign

Language (MFL)

We currently teach a modern foreign language for children in Years 3 to 6. Years 3 and 4 learn Spanish and

Years 5 and 6 learn French.

Enrichment Activities

We offer a number of opportunities such as day trips, extended trips and visitors to the school (e.g. travelling theatre

companies) that involve additional expense. As these activities are to enrich the curriculum we ask parents to cover the cost of

coaches, entrance fees, etc.

When they occur, we inform parents in writing about the details of the activity, its link with the curriculum and the amount

required to cover the cost. We do reserve the right to cancel if there are not sufficient contributions to cover the cost.

Extra Curricular Activities

A range of clubs is offered to children by staff on a voluntary basis, for example sports, musical instruments, drama and

homework. For various reasons these are offered first to the older children and take place either at lunchtime or at the end of

the school day. We do have some organisations that provide paid coaching via the school such as judo, Tae Kwon Do and

dancing. Information on these is available from the office. The school also has peripatetic music teachers who visit the school.

These are normally run by the West Berkshire Maestros. Details can be obtained from the school.

Twinning

In order for children and staff to promote a sense of whole school responsibility, classes from the different departments are

Twinned to work together in mixed age groups on dedicated days and on routine activities such as paired reading. This helps

the children prepare to take an active role as citizens, develop good relationships and consider social and moral issues.

Twinning groups are set at the beginning of each year.

Houses

Each child is placed into one of four Houses after the first half term of entry. These are Air, Fire, Water and Earth. House

points are awarded for good academic achievement, sports and good behaviour. House Cups are awarded on a weekly, termly

and yearly basis with a Sports Cup for the winners of Sports Day. House points are used as a good incentive and reward for

those children who are always doing their best. Golden Time runs across the school on a weekly basis as a general class

reward for good behaviour (see Behaviour Policy).


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The School Council

We have a thriving school council who discuss and make decisions on a range of issues important to them and the school. A

representative from each class attends the regular meetings, having previously discussed the agenda with their class during a

class council meeting. The school council meetings are run by Year 6 officers who are selected at the end of the previous year.

There are at least two members of staff attending each meeting and Mrs Hunter the Headteacher is regularly invited!


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Special Education Needs

Special Education Needs (SEN)

The term special needs covers a wide range of educational, emotional and physical difficulties that inhibit the developmentof

a childs ability. Nationally about one in five children will need extra help at one time or another and about 2% of children will

have a formal Statement of Educational Needs. At Francis Baily we have a commitment to fully support any child for whommainstream education is deemed appropriate, subject to the normal admissions criteria.

We keep a register of children who need special help. This is not to label them but to ensure that they get the help they need.

We believe that the early identification of problems is important and that the progress of children with special needs benefits

from close monitoring.

There are three stages of special educational needs. A child will only move on to the next stage if their needs are not being

satisfactorily met at the current level. In the case where a child is making good progress he or she will move back through the

stages and may in the end no longer be deemed to have special educational needs.

The current code of practice places specific duties on schools to keep parents fully informed - a policy we whole-heartedly

endorse. Should your child be identified as needing extra help you will be consulted and thereafter regularly contacted to helpyou and the school monitor change and progress. Further details of the code of practice are given to parents when children are

identified as having special educational needs.

Able, Gifted and Talented Children (AG&T)

In addition to making special provision for pupils experiencing problems with learning, we make special provision for children

with exceptional ability through carefully planned extension and enrichment activities. The progress of our able pupils is

monitored and reviewed regularly by their class teacher and the AG&T Co-ordinator.

Francis Baily aims to develop a responsive environment in which childrens abilities and talents will emerge. We strive to

develop personalisation in which these abilities and talents are recognised and further developed through a challenging

learning curriculum for each individual pupils cognitive, social, emotional and physical needs.

We refer to the term gifted to mean those pupils capable of excelling in academic subjects such as English and Maths. The

term Talented refers to those pupils who may excel in areas of the curriculum which are more practical such as PE, drama,

music or the arts.


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Term Dates


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Term Dates

2012/13 Term Starts Term Ends Holiday Period

Term 1 Wednesday 4 September 2013 Thursday 24 October 2013 Friday 25 October 2013

to

Monday 4 November 2013Term 2 Tuesday 5 November 2013 Friday 20 December 2013 Monday 23 December 2013

to

Friday 6 January 2014

Term 3 Tuesday 7 January 2014 Friday 14 February 2014 Monday 17 February 2014

to

Friday 21 February 2014

Term 4 Monday 24 February 2014 Thursday 3 April 2014 Friday 4 April 2014

to

Monday 21 April 2014

Term 5 Tuesday 22 April 2014 Friday 23 May 2014 Monday 26 May 2014

to

Friday 30 May 2014Term 6 Monday 2 June 2014 Wednesday 23 July 2014 Thursday 24 July 2014 until the start of the

next school year

Note: Five days are also available for professional day closures during term time. These days are set by the Headteacher and

school Governors and are included in the above dates. School term and holiday dates are also available on thecouncils

website.

Taking Holidays During Term Time

Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to ensure their childs attendance at schools. Holidays should be taken during the

school holiday period. Please complete a holiday form available from the school office orschool websiteif you wish to request

a leave of absence during term time, however, this is not advised as it will often have a detrimental effect on your childseducation or friendships.

We will not authorise leave of absence at critical times of the childs education, e.g. during end of year assessments or tests

which tend to take place in the Summer Term for Year 1 Year 2 and Year 6 pupils.
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Staff and Classes


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Staff and Classes

School Year Homework

Foundation

Teachers:Mrs Malone

Mrs Wigglesworth

Miss Barber

Mrs Greenhalgh/Mrs Bayliss - support teachers

Reading practise to establish good reading habits is essential; somenumber and handwriting practise may also be appropriate.

Year 1

Teachers:

Mrs Merrell

Miss Greenhalgh

Miss Barlow

Approximately 1 hour per week (including or in addition to

10-15 minutes reading per daythis is vital).

Year 2

Teachers:

Miss Cook

Mrs Khong

Mrs Morley/Miss Eastop

Approximately 1 hour per week (including or in addition to


Year 3

Teachers:

Mrs Tarry

Miss Gamlin

Mrs Sherratt/Mrs Crowther

Approximately 1.5 hours per week (including or in addition to


Year 4

Teachers:

Mrs Field

Miss Fisher

Miss Harrison

Approximately 1.5 hours per week (including or in addition to

10-15 minutes reading per daythis is vital)

Year 5

Teachers:

Mrs WattsMrs Collins

Mr Davies (Yr5/6)

Approximately 30 minutes per day. It is still crucial for children

at this age to continue to read regularlymore frequently if

they have reading or writing difficulties.

Year 6

Teachers:

Mr Davies (Yr5/6)

Miss Hobbs

Miss Samsudin

Approximately 30 minutes per day. It is still crucial for children

at this age to continue to read regularlymore frequently if

they have reading or writing difficulties.


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Contact Us


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Contact Us

Address:

Francis Baily Primary School

Skillman Drive, Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 4GG

Telephone:(01635) 8621188

Fax:(01635) 860599

Website:www.francisbaily.co.uk

Email:[email protected]

The office is manned from 8.30am to 4pm and all

our staff will be happy to help you.

We have a dedicated pupil absence reporting line and

an information line, which is updated on a daily basis

advising of activities, events and notices such as

trip cancellations etc.

Office staff

Carolyn Tilbury - School Business Manager

Ruth Jones - Finance Officer

Pauline Ford - Administration Officer

Sharon Wallace - Receptionist

Laura Baker - Receptionist

Veronica Bathe - Receptionist/Clerical Assistant

Ruth Jones - Finance Assistant, Out of Hours Clubs Finance Assistant

Other Support Staff

Suzanne Berry - Inclusion Teacher

Les Ong - Site Controller

Veronica Bathe - Lunchtime Supervisor

Vanessa Holden - Lunchtime Supervisor
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Francis Baily School Prospectus 13 14

Documents

Transcript of Francis Baily School Prospectus 13 14