Prospectus

Southover CE Primary School

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Southover School prides itself on having happy children who work hard, achieve highly and have an enjoyable time at school. We expect high standards, and achieve high standards both academically and socially. I am delighted that you are interested in your child joining the Southover School community and hope that they will bring their talents to enrich the environment that makes Southover School such a special place.

Southover School has a close relationship with Trinity Church and the town. It has been a part of Lewes life for well over one hundred years. I am sure that the relationship between the school, parents, church and community will remain a successful one, and one in which you would like to become involved.

Southover School is of Church of England foundation and controlled by the Local Authority (LA). This means that Trinity Church, Southover, works closely with the school and provides three ‘foundation governors’.

Everyone at Southover:Achieves their potential,is valued for who they are

and knows they belong

Motto:Live, love, learn!

WELCOME TO SOUTHOVER CE PRIMARY SCHOOL

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At Southover Church of England

Primary school:

We all work together – children, parents,

staff, Trinity Church and the community.

We inspire each other to learn through

a vibrant curriculum, set within a safe

environment that meets the needs of

all children.

We gain strength from the love* of God

and our love* for one another; we feel we

belong to Trinity Church.

We value: Trust, Compassion, Friendship,

Hope, Thankfulness and Fellowship.

We have a healthy mind, body and spirit

to allow us to ‘Live, Love, Learn’.

*Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not

boast,

it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered,

it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices

with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always

hopes, always perseveres.

1 Corinthians 13

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ADMISSIONSMost children will start school sometime in the first few weeks of September. Parents can request that their child’s admission is deferred until later in the school year (usually at the start of a school term) but not beyond compulsory school age, at the beginning of the term following their fifth birthday. Parents can also request that their child attends morning sessions only until the term after their child reaches compulsory school age.

SCHOOL INSPECTIONSSouthover School was inspected under Ofsted’s inspection framework in June 2018.

The positive inspection report not only acknowledges the considerable strength of the school’s staff, its policies and support systems, but also the strength of partnership it has with governors, parents and the local community.

The reports states:“Staff are an integral part of the nurturing environment, and they provide high-quality care. They prioritise pupils’ safety and ensure that pupils now make good progress over time.”

“The varied and interesting curriculum is a strength of the school.”

Southover also underwent an inspection by the Chichester Diocese in November 2016. This was also a very positive report:

• There are very positive relationships between all members of the school community, based on the Christian values of care, service and respect.

• The involvement of stakeholders in the review of Christian mission and values has improved the Christian distinctiveness of the school.

• There are strong links with the church and the involvement of team members from the parish church, including the children families and schools worker, is contributing well to the development of the school as a church school.

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We aim to make your child’s experience of starting school as pleasant and smooth as possible. Before a child starts school, opportunities are provided for parents and children to familiarise themselves with the school through taster sessions in June and July. Class teachers visit local nurseries which have a significant number of future Southover pupils, and also offer individual meetings in the first week of September. Children usually settle in very quickly.

GETTING READY FOR SCHOOLIt is important that parents take advantage of opportunities to bring children to school before ‘schooling’ actually begins. We suggest that parents try and make sure they become familiar with their teacher, the way to school, the school entrance and so on, before they start.

SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATIONThere are many ways in which you can support your child as a young learner. Here are some suggestions:

• Read to your child – every day if possible. Take your child to the library and encourage them to look at books. Do not exert pressure on your child to read before they start school, but if they show an interest then encourage them.

• Encourage scrapbooks with pictures. Print relevant words beneath each picture. Never print in capitals. These scrapbooks can be used as simple reading books.

• Encourage your child to paint, crayon and cook, activities that give opportunities for conversations and increase confidence.

• Play games with your child that helps them to realise how numbers occur in life – not by doing calculations but by counting objects.

• Getting dressed and putting their coats and shoes on by themselves.

STARTING SCHOOL

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COLLECTIVE WORSHIP School assemblies/acts of collective worship are held each day and are led by both the Headteacher and teachers. On a Thursday we have a celebration assembly and on Friday morning, the assembly is taken by a variety of speakers including clergy from Trinity Church and parents join us when each year group gives a taste of their learning.

Parents may withdraw their child from the daily act of worship. Any parent wishing to do so should discuss the matter with the Headteacher.

SCHOOL CLUBSSouthover has a reputation for enrichment and offers a multitude of opportunities to learn and socialise outside the normal lessons. We are proud of the variety of opportunities we offer outside of the curriculum.

After school clubs for children are arranged between 3.15 pm and 4.30 pm. These are voluntary and the nature of the clubs change from term to term, depending on the season, the interests of staff, and the availability of outside agencies. Clubs run by outside agencies require payment to those agencies.

We are able to offer many varied and inspiring clubs for a variety of ages. These vary according to the time of year and availability but may include: Drama, Chess, Badminton, Football, Girls’ Football, Basketball, Cricket, Multi-sports, Netball, French, Spanish, Recorders, Dance, Steel Pans, Gymnastics, Table-tennis, Yoga and Choir. We also have an orchestra!

BREAKFAST AND AFTER SCHOOL CLUBSVery popular breakfast and After School clubs are available at Southover. The Breakfast Club runs from 7.45 to 8.45am and the After School Club from 3.15 to 6.00pm each school day. The clubs are run by ‘A Class of Their Own’.

For more information contact the providers directly on: 01273 733 337 or email: admin@classoftheirown.com

Beach trip

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SCHOOL CURRICULUM AND YEAR GROUPSThe children in the EYFS (Reception) have newly created, purpose built classrooms. These benefit from their own outside area so the children learn inside and outside throughout the day. We also make use of the hall and gym spaces, two playgrounds and the field.

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and ensure our approach is truly child-centred. Learning is predominately through play, with focussed teaching inputs, group work and individual support. They might be making a den, building structures, pouring water or writing a list in the role play area: by observing, modelling, prompting and stimulating their imagination is how the teaching staff nurture your child’s early learning.

SCHOOL CURRICULUM

We work hard to create an environment that is happy, secure, nurturing and stimulating to ensure we provide the very best for your child’s first year at Southover.

In Y1 & 2 there is a clear topic based-approach. Science is closely linked with History, Geography and Religious Education through the exploration of topics. Whilst mathematical skills are also developed within these topics where appropriate, it is an area in need of explicit teaching for much of the time. Much practical work is in evidence in all subjects.

In Y3-Y6, much of the cross-curricular approach is maintained although individual subjects are more easily identified. All subjects are based on the expectations of the National Curriculum delivered in an engaging manor with the teacher’s own inspiration leading the learning. A ‘topic’ or ‘theme-based’ approach is often used to link several subjects. For example, a topic on the ‘Egyptians’ can naturally link work in History, Geography, Art, Science, Music, Dance, Design Technology, English and Mathematics!

Homework is set from Y1. This may involve work related to the Maths and English as well as reading. A homework information leaflet is made available to parents. Children in Reception are expected to try to do ten minutes’ reading/sharing a book at home every day. The ‘Jolly Phonics’ scheme is used which is fun for both children and parents! There is a meeting early in the Reception year to explain how this works.

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CURRICULUM MATTERSWe are currently embarking on an extensive development programme to enhance and engage our children in writing - Talk for Writing will make the children active learners who are ‘writing’ orally, learning and recalling stories and becoming confident writers.

We systematically teach phonics throughout YR, Y1 and Y2. We have a structured reading scheme to support children as they learn to read. Also, each class has its own book collection including both fiction and non-fiction from which the children choose. They are encouraged to take books home each day to read, share and enjoy with their parents. Reading for enjoyment is the key motivator. Teachers will read to the children every day to show the importance and enjoyment that can be gained.

A ‘home-school’ record book accompanies the child’s reading book for all children. This provides all adults involved in their reading an opportunity to comment, encourage and monitor progress. We have parent volunteers who come in and read with children from other classes to offer additional opportunities. Emphasis is placed on enjoyment of books and on the pleasure and information that can be derived from reading.

We have introduced a fully cursive script for handwriting. All letters start from the same place and joining encourages word spacing and spelling.

Drama is another area to which many children come naturally. They need to be helped to express ideas and feelings through speech and movement. We are proud of the range and variety of our school ‘productions’ – year group assemblies, Christmas plays, talent shows and Y6 plays and musicals. We have an excellent light system in the hall (provided by the ‘Friends’) which gives a professional feel to the shows.

Maths is being approached through ‘Mastery’. We look to get all children working at their age-expected level with the higher achievers being confident in explaining their maths, using and applying this knowledge in a variety of circumstances and learning to question and play with maths. Concrete resources and pictorial images can be used at any age as they play a key part in the learning process. Fluency with number, reasoning and problem solving are what top mathematicians need.

In Science, we aim to develop understanding and enjoyment through questioning and ‘hands-on’ experiments. We try to show the children that science is a way of understanding their world through testing ideas and by using logical thought.

Many of our scientific topics and projects are based in our immediate environment. We are fortunate at Southover to have rich opportunities within the town and locality for study.

In Design Technology we aim to ensure a steady progression of knowledge and skills through giving opportunities to help the children generate their own ideas and respond to given challenges. Challenges given to the children are, for example, designing and making clothes for a cuddly or cooking a healthy meal inspired by their topic work.

Specific Computing lessons take place in our newly kitted out ICT Suite and each class has access to laptops for research and learning. By Y6, children will be confident in creating simple programmes and will have the skills to build a webpage. Older children act as Digital Leaders to support other children.

In History, Geography and Religious Education, we aim to develop an awareness of self and sensitivity to others; the acquisition of a set of moral values and the confidence to make and hold to moral judgements; to develop habits of self-discipline and acceptable behaviour; knowledge of geographical, historical and social aspects of the local environment and the national heritage; an awareness of other times and places and the recognition of links between local, national and international events. Pupils in Y3-6 are taught French each week by the French teacher.

The children’s activities are mainly integrated around themes and topics. Examples of topics covered, among others, include The Ancient Greeks, South America, The Stone Age, The Great Fire of London and Toys of the Past.

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Science!

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In Physical Education we have games, dance and gymnastics in our large sports gym, field or playground. Games currently include soccer, hockey, rugby, cross-country, basketball, athletics, cricket, tennis, rounders and swimming. The school has its own outdoor learner pool where many children learn to swim. Many of these activities are supported by after-school clubs and teams participate in tournaments and friendly games with other local primary schools. The school is very proud of the opportunities provided for all Southover children to participate in sport, as well as both team and individual achievements.

As part of our programme of enrichment, children in Y3-6 benefit from a weekly session from a specialist sports coach from the Premier Sports organisation.

In Art and Design and in the Creative and Performance Arts we aim to help children to learn the skills to be able to use music and several forms of arts and crafts as a means of expression (e.g. dance, clay, painting, model-making, sewing). We have a kiln and have been focusing on increasing the quality of clay work. These kiln-fired pieces will be created with care and will last beyond the children’s school years!

We aim in Music to develop the ability to enjoy and respond to music, to listen with understanding, and to be willing to participate as appropriate in music-making.

Southover’s music provision is a particular strength; we are proud to have a school choir and orchestra. Children in Y4 all learn the recorder as a class. Through the County Music Service, children are given the opportunity to apply for tuition on various instruments including violin, cello, flute, guitar and keyboard.

Musical performance is encouraged and enriches assemblies and church services. Pupils have the opportunity to participate in performances at Christmas and in the Summer Term, either in a musical play or in a concert.

Sex and Relationships Education forms part of our overall school PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) and Citizenship policy and it is not taught in isolation.

Experience has shown that the most appropriate stage for children to learn of the reproductive system is when they are in Y4 and this curriculum is developed in Y6.

The work in the classroom is supported by the use of appropriate DVD resources which cover growth and development, how babies are conceived and born, and the importance of stable loving relationships. Parents of children in KS2 are contacted by letter prior to this aspect of the topic starting and there are opportunities for parents to see the DVDs and discuss matters with the members of staff concerned. Parents may, if they so wish, withdraw their child from all or part of sex education.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATIONAt Southover we follow the East Sussex policy for Religious Education. This syllabus is a broad religious education curriculum. Christianity, as a theme, is followed in all years, together with a focus on other religions. As part of this learning experience, children are made aware of themselves and others and learn about people from other lands and their cultures. Parents may, if they so wish, withdraw their child from Religious Education. Please talk to the Headteacher if you are considering this option.

CHURCH LINKSWe are proud of our history and enjoy a close relationship with Southover Church. In Term 1 the school leads two Harvest Festival Services and at Christmas time, parents and friends of the school join us for our YR-Y2 Christingle service at Southover Church. These are led by the children and include songs, readings and drama. Y3-6 children also hold a Carol Service or a Christmas performance either in the church or at the school. At the end of the school year, a special ‘Leavers service’ is held for Y6 children.

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Christingle

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SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS AND DISABILITIES AT SOUTHOVER SCHOOLSupport for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) at Southover is designed to meet the needs of the individual by the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) and the teachers to ensure that all Southover children achieve their full potential. We have been awarded ‘Dyslexia Friendly’ status in recognition of the good practice throughout the school in supporting dyslexic children.

A good partnership between the school, parents, children and external agencies is essential to supporting our children. We strongly believe that there are huge benefits gained by a child knowing that parents and teachers are working together, not in isolation. Two-way communication is encouraged both formally and informally. Depending on the needs of the child, which are closely assessed and monitored, children are supported within their class or withdrawn for short periods of time to work in small support groups on specific areas.

We have a well-established Nurture Class to support children in their primary needs such as building relationships, turn-taking, cooperating, gaining confidence or a better understanding of their and others emotions. This has been most successful in supporting children for a term or two in the afternoons and is led by trained THRIVE practitioners.

A detailed report on our SEND provision is available on our website.

INCLUSIONIt is Southover’s policy that every child has a right to equal access to the curriculum. The school’s SEND Policy and Equalities Policy (available on the website) state clearly the importance the school places upon provision for each and every child regardless of ability, gender, ethnicity, belief or background.

PROVISION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIESThe school provides facilities for pupils with physical disabilities. These facilities include wheelchair access to the ground floor area at the west and east of the main building. A disabled toilet facility is provided on the ground floor.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIESIt is the school’s policy to recognise individual differences. We aim to ensure that no person or group experiences unfair discrimination. All parents/carers, pupils, staff, governors and friends of the school have a part to play in making our Equalities Policy work.

GOOD BEHAVIOURWe believe very strongly in good and considerate behaviour by all pupils. Children are encouraged to develop self-discipline. Children are grouped into house teams to earn points for appropriate behaviour and gain a sense of team commitment. We also have Golden Rules and a class contract which reminds children of the standards we expect at our school.

“Pupils respond well to your high expectations of behaviour. They behave very well in lessons and at social times. Pupils have a well-developed sense of fundamental British values because of the varied opportunities the curriculum offers.”Ofsted Report September 2013 n

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Patina

Harvest Festival

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We encourage learning through experience and try to have as many opportunities to learn off-site as possible. Year groups have several special days and trips over the year to inspire and make learning fun. A wonderful residential trip is arranged for the Year 6 children in their final summer.

COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTSWe should like you to feel that you are able to speak with your child’s teacher about any aspect of work at any time during the year. Appointments can be made through the school office or a quick word may be had in the playground before or after school.

We have two formal Parent/Carer-Teacher Consultation afternoons and evenings when you are able to make an appointment to discuss your child’s progress with the class teacher.

We also have an open afternoon where the children can share their work with you during a school day.

The Headteacher is always willing to help with concerns about your child but it is the class teacher who will usually have the most knowledge on their progress. Teachers are usually in the playground before and after school or an appointment can be made through the school office.

As part of the school’s commitment to the development of parent partnership and good communication, information sessions for parents may be held during the year. This meeting takes the form of a talk on a relevant topic at Southover and can be led by

a senior member of staff or the Headteacher. In the past, we have held sessions on areas such as phonics, SEND, Maths and supporting reading.

SHARING INFORMATIONWe ask for your permission before we can share your information with other people – this is your right. Sharing information is often necessary so that we access support faster and more accurately. You can always change your mind later about permission you have given us to share.

There may be times when we have a duty to share your information in a way you have not given us permission to do. For example, we will have to share your information without your permission:

• when there is a risk of harm to your health and safety

• when there is a risk of harm to other people’s health and safety

• when there is a child protection/safeguarding concern, or

• if we have to pass on your information by law.

EVENTS & EDUCATIONAL VISITS

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THE FRIENDS OF SOUTHOVER SCHOOLThe Friends (PTA) is a registered charity. All parents with a child at Southover are automatically members of the Friends and everyone is welcome to attend Friends meetings. The Friends is run by an elected committee and class representatives who organise fundraising/social events to raise money for those nice ‘extras’ which improve life in the school for pupils, teachers and parents. The Friends pay for all the running costs of the swimming pool, as well as offering practical help to the school. In the past they have contributed towards the cost of stage lighting for the hall, netball kits, digital cameras, and the refurbishment of the playtrail. Regular events include Christmas and Summer Fairs, cake sales, quiz and comedy nights, discos and book swaps. Thousands of pounds are raised annually to support the children

as well as teams to help refurbish outside areas and support school events. They are a key asset of Southover School.

ABSENCESBeing at school is key to learning and we strive to have children in school every day. When you child is unwell, we ask you to report the reason for a child’s absence by telephoning the school office before 8.45 am on each day of absence.

Parents requesting “removal from learning in term time” for either unavoidable or exceptional reasons should complete an absence request form available from the school office or information stand and return it to school at least 10 school days before the requested absence date (except in emergency situations).

CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENTChildren are expected to come to school appropriately dressed and are expected to wear school uniform School sweatshirts, fleeces, T-shirts and polo shirts are available from Intersport of Lewes. Standard items of school uniform can be purchased from most high street clothing shops.

It is important that all clothing is clearly named.

HAIR, JEWELLERY AND UNSUITABLE CLOTHINGFor health and safety reasons, jewellery should not be worn in school and long hair (i.e. hair which touches the shoulder) should be tied back. Stud earrings should be removed for PE or taped over.

The LA, the governors, Headteacher and staff will not be responsible for any accident or loss that occurs as a result of any pupils wearing inappropriate or unsuitable clothing or jewellery.

School Uniform PE KitRoyal blue school sweatshirts/ fleeces or cardigans (not grey or black)

White or royal blue polo shirts (not pale blue)

Grey school trousers, shorts or skirts

Grey, black or navy tights

Sensible dark school shoes (black, grey or brown). Sandals may be worn in summer but should not be open-toed.

Ankle-length boots may be worn in the winter.

Summer dresses

No leggings please

Suitable outdoor coat for winter/bad weather.

Royal blue school round neck tee-shirt

Black or blue shorts

Plimsolls (for indoor PE)

Trainers (suitable for wearing on the field in winter)

In cold weather children may wear tracksuits.

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DINNERSSchool meals are cooked on the premises in our kitchen. All YR, Y1 and Y2 children are entitled to a free school meal. Dinner can be paid for on a daily, weekly or termly basis. There is also ’Parent Pay’ which is an online payment option. If paying cash, your co-operation in sending the correct money is always appreciated.

TEACHING TIMES AND THE SCHOOL DAY

Reception Classes Key Stage 1 (Infants) Key Stage 2 (Juniors) Year 5/6 8.45am - 12 noon 8.45am - 11.40am (Y1) Year 3/4 8.45am -12.30pm with a 15 minute break 8.45am - 11.50am (Y2) 8.45am - 12.15pm with a 20 minute break with a 15 minute break with a 15 minute break

12.55pm - 3.10pm 12.40pm - 3.15pm (Y1) 1.15pm - 3.15pm 1.30pm - 3.15pm with a 15 minute break 12.50pm - 3.15pm (Y2) no afternoon break no afternoon break with a 10 minute break

CAR PARKING The car park opposite The Grange provides spaces for staff only, during school hours. We do ask that in the interest of your child’s safety any ‘dropping-off’ and collecting should be done at The Grange end rather than in Potters Lane. The governors are very keen to promote a walk-to-school policy and parents are encouraged not to bring children to school by car whenever possible. Due to increased demand, cycle and scooter storage space is provided on site.

CHARGING POLICY FOR SCHOOL VISITS AND JOURNEYSThe governors have a Charging and Remissions Policy which is available on the school website.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDUREThe Local Authority has now established a detailed complaints procedure, copies of which are available for reference from the school or from the school’s website www.southoverceprimary.co.uk. The school has formally adopted the procedures noted in this policy.

Morris dancing

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Southover CE Primary School, Potters Lane, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 1JPHeadteacher: Mr Noel Fadden

Telephone 01273 473015E-mail: office@southover.e-sussex.sch.uk Website: www.southoverceprimary.co.uk

We hope that at Southover each child will find the opportunity to use and develop their talents to the full whether academic, sporting or artistic.

Southover would not be the school it is without the contribution from parents, staff, governors and children.

Great importance and significance is placed on the partnership between home and school, church and community.

We hope that this relationship will be a long and happy one.

We’re a happy team, come and join us!

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