Prospectus
THE SCHOOL DAY
Children should arrive at school at least five minutes before the start of sessions.
FOUNDATION (Saplings)
9.00 am- 11.30 am
12.40 pm - 3.10 pm
KEY STAGE 1 ( Rowan, Poplar and Sycamore)
9.00 am - 12.00 noon
1.00 pm - 3.15 pm
Breaktimes
10.15 am – 10.30 am
2.15 pm – 2.30 pm
KEY STAGE 2
Years 3 & 4
9.00 am - 12.00 noon
1.00 pm - 3.20 pm
Years 5 & 6
9.00 am – 12.30 pm
1.30 pm – 3.20 pm
Breaktimes
10.45 am – 11:00 am
Hot meals are served in the KS2 Hall
Children eat lunch in the hall, and after lunch they go out onto the playground to play. Lunch breaks are supervised by lunch-time supervisors.
GOLDEN RULES
There is strong emphasis on the prevention of inappropriate behaviour, by ensuring that lessons are well planned, differentiated and fun. The systems and behaviour expectations are set out in the school ‘golden rules’, and applied throughout the school. Children are encouraged to keep the school’s golden rules
Children can earn 5 minutes time each day as a reward for good behaviour. Children are rewarded with up to half an hour ‘golden time’ activity, available at the end of the week. A reward in sharing assembly is also given for those who have done something outstanding within the school.
The school operates zero tolerance to bullying.
DO BE KIND AND HELPFUL
DO WORK HARD
DO BE HONEST
DO BE GENTLE
DO LOOK AFTER PROPERTY
DO LISTEN
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
Absences
Parents should contact the school if their child is absent. If they have not phoned before 9.30 am then the school will attempt to contact them. Attendance and lateness is monitored by the school.
Holidays during term time must be requested and authorised by the Headteacher. Forms are available in the front entrance.
Complaints
Any concerns or complaints that a parent may have should first be discussed with the class teacher. If the issue remains unresolved, a parent may make a formal complaint to either the Head Teacher or the Chair of Governors. The school has a formal complaints policy that can be obtained from the school office.
Equal Opportunities
At St Swithun’s school we believe that no child or family should be excluded from the school’s activities on the grounds of age, gender, sexuality, class, family status, disability, colour, ethnic origin, culture, religion or beliefs. We ensure that all who work in, or volunteer to help with our school have an equal chance to do so. The school aims to foster an inclusive education policy wherever possible.
Financial contributions
All charges for activities taking place during school hours are voluntary, and the school will suggest an appropriate contribution. No child will be excluded from an activity if parents are unable to contribute. Free lunches are available for low-income families. Any parent who is anxious or concerned should contact the Headteacher who will treat such discussion as confidential.
Special Educational Needs
Whilst we recognise that all children have needs, there are some children who for various reasons have identified special needs and who will need to be supported in school. The form of support will be decided in consultation with class teachers, advisory support teachers, the child, the parents and any other experts who might work directly with the child. The school’s policy for Special Needs is available in the school office and on the website.
COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS
We believe in a partnership with parents and we are keen to work with you to encourage the development of your child. A happy start to school life is encouraged by meetings between us and parents before your child starts school.
Parents are invited to meet with their child’s teacher twice a year, and in July a written report is prepared for each child. In between these formal meetings teachers are happy to discuss any issues that arise. At the end of the day teachers are available for informal contact. Parents can also arrange a time to meet more formally if preferred. Similarly, appointments can be made with the Headteacher if the class teacher cannot help.
A newsletter is sent out regularly with details of what is happening in the school and events to come. Details of the school diary are also available on the school website at www.st-swithuns.oxon.sch.uk
What parents do for us
Friends of St Swithuns School - (FOSS)
St Swithun’s school has a thriving Friends Association (FOSS) which is available to all parents. FOSS arrange both social and fund-raising activities throughout the school year. They also help out at school events like the Christmas plays, concerts and the annual sports day.
FOSS have funded many projects in school such as: 2 new school llibraries, outdoor classroom, food technology room and rejuvenated our outdoor learning environment. They have also provided the school with computers, literacy books, sports equipment and presents for the children at Christmas.
We welcome parents who wish to help in the school with reading, working in classrooms, or helping with school trips. If you are able to offer help in any classes on a regular or ad-hoc basis, please make this known to your class teacher or headteacher.
Select this link to learn more: http://www.friendsofstswithuns.org/