New Starters

Welcome to our school, we hope that you find the following information of interest and value. We are very glad that you have chosen to send your child to Broughton Primary School and hope we are able to live up to the high expectations we are sure you have of us.

We aim to provide quality education at this school in a caring and friendly atmosphere. We hope that you will always feel welcome here and want to take part in both the academic and social life of the school. We are here to help if you have a problem, or even occasionally a complaint, just feel free to come in and discuss it with us. Complaining at the gate never changes anything; I promise we will always listen to what you have to say.

Education is a partnership and we all need to work together to ensure the best outcomes for your children. We welcome your interest and support in all that your child does during their time at school.

Finally, we want your child to be happy, achieve the most they can and leave here a confident, well-mannered and educated young person.

Our view of education can be best summed up by the following Chinese proverb:

• I hear and I forget

• I see and I remember

• I do and I understand

We at Broughton Primary School see it as our purpose to provide meaningful, high quality and broad based learning experiences for the children of our town. These experiences will be first hand where appropriate, differentiated for all children and planned following National Curriculum guidelines enabling the children to succeed in fulfilling their personal potential.

We shall achieve this by providing a secure, caring and stimulating environment with opportunities and resources for development and room for growth, recognition and feedback for all stakeholders. Within this context we will maintain a strong commitment to high expectations of work and behaviour. We will promote physical, emotional, moral and intellectual development, whilst maintaining effective communication with parents, children and between colleagues.

The School believes that any form of discrimination is unacceptable.

Broughton Primary School is confident in its Mission Statement because of its commitment to quality and its well-trained team of educational professionals.

Children work hard at school and it is important for them to know that parents are interested in their efforts. We try to run an open school at Broughton and encourage honest dialogue about individual children and school life in general. We invite parents to help us fulfil the aims of the school by mutual exchange of ideas and information. Parents are always welcome here. Do not be puzzled by anything connected with the school. Come and find out!

Home and school are the two most important influences on your child and they must feel that you and their teachers are working together, showing an interest in all their activities both in school and at home. Please let us know if there is anything about your child that you think may affect the way they work in school. Should a problem arise with a child at home or at school, it is to everybody’s advantage that it is dealt with quickly.

All the staff at Broughton are approachable and very ready to discuss the welfare and progress of the children in their care. We are almost always available if you need to see us and can make arrangements to meet you in the early evening if you are unable to get into school during the day. A phone call, note or e-mail is all that is necessary to arrange an appointment with one of us.

The school’s current admission arrangements adhere to the published criteria contained in the North Lincolnshire Schools’ Guide.

While at this school, the children progress through three Key Stages of the National Curriculum. Their first full year in school is part of the Foundation Stage when they learn all the key skills, basic concepts and areas of knowledge which they need to have to build on in future years. In addition to the teaching staff we have qualified support staff who work with all pupils.

The next two years in school (Years 1 and 2) are part of Key Stage 1. The final four years (Years 3, 4, 5 and 6) are part of Key Stage 2.

Children are invited to make several visits into school during the term before they start. The dates of these visits are sent to parents during the term prior to the children’s starting date.

During the first visit, children and parents are invited to spend time in the classroom and share some of the activities that the children will be doing when they come to school.

On the second visit, the children are encouraged to stay in the classroom while parents and the headteacher meet to discuss necessary points for starting school.

The children who attend ‘Little Acorns’ in Broughton also come into school with their friends and playgroup leaders during dedicated sessions during the summer term. The children are taken to explore different parts of the school such as the hall and playground in addition to the classroom. Children who attend other nurseries also have this opportunity. All children are then invited to stay for a school meal during their visits.

During the first week at school, the children attend for a few half days (in the morning) so that they can acclimatise to the school routine more quickly. They then build up their time by staying for lunch before completing full days in school.

The school day starts at 8:55 am and ends at 3:30 pm.

School opens for all pupils at 8:45 am. Reception children come into school via their own dedicated entrance next to the main school gate and go straight to their classrooms ready for registration at 8:55 am. All other pupils make their way directly to their own dedicated classroom entrance.

Lunchtime is for an hour and is staggered so that children up to Year 3 have their lunch between 11:45 am and 12:45 pm whilst children in Year 4 and above have their lunch between 12:15 pm and 1:15 pm.

School finishes at 3:30 pm and the Reception children come out of their classroom doors into the Reception class outdoor area, other pupils onto the main playground.

Parents are required to park outside the school grounds on Brigg Road, strictly observing the no parking and no dropping-off school safety zones. It is for your child’s safety that we require you to comply with these parking restrictions.

Please do not park or drive into the school grounds to drop off or pick up children, as this is also dangerous. The school car park is for employees only.

As part of the government’s initiative related to school meals, every child in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 receive a nutritious, balanced school meal every day. This meal is free of charge for all children.

In the dining room, time is spent introducing the children to the different foods available and helping them to make choices. Children will be expected to know how to use a knife and fork and sit at the table where they will initially helped by the school staff to carry their tray and take the plates and cutlery from it.

For children in Years 3, 4, 5 & 6 school lunches cost £12 per week which is payable via ParentPay. Children are able to choose their meal from the menu provided on a day by day basis, and swap from school meals to packed lunches if they wish.

In addition to the meal, children can choose from a range of drinks and there is always plenty of water on the tables. There is also a small selection of salad available. Vegetarian options and other necessary dietary requirements can be catered for.

Pupils choosing to eat a cooked lunch can also take advantage of our outdoor ‘Bistro’ area when the weather is appropriate.

A small number of children have packed lunch, seating for which is provided for in the main hall.

No children at present go home for lunch, and for social reasons we do not encourage this. We feel it is important for all children to have social contact during school lunch breaks.

For Reception children, outdoor play and learning is a continuous part of the provision on offer and as such, they do not have a recognisable playtime during the morning or afternoon.

Children do enjoy time at lunch, to socialise and play with children from other classes in carefully organised games and activities.

All children in Reception receive, free of charge, a carton of milk (1/3 pint) to drink during the day. In addition to this, every child in school has a water bottle to allow them to remain hydrated as necessary.

All children in Reception and Key Stage 1 receive a free piece of fresh fruit. This is available in the classroom and can be eaten at any time during the day.

Key Stage 2 children if they wish can bring a piece of fruit which they can consume at morning break.

We do not allow any sweets/ biscuits or crisps at playtimes.

For children in Reception, the school follows the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. This is a broad and balanced programme split into two areas: the prime and the specific. These cover general skills and aptitudes for learning as well as specific areas more akin to traditional subjects.

For all other pupils we follow the guidelines of the National Curriculum. The school maintains a broad and balanced curriculum and tries, where appropriate, to make links between the different subject areas. Children are taught as individuals, pairs, small groups, classes, year groups and in ability sets depending on the learning objectives and what will allow your child to make good or even better progress.

We aim for all pupils to achieve their full potential, which means that parents should avoid comparing their own child’s progress with that of others. We value all aspects of the curriculum and although English, maths and science together take up the greatest proportion of our teaching time, the other subjects really matter to us.

The school is particularly noted for its teaching and development of the Arts, PE and its International curriculum.

Detailed plans and record-keeping ensure that all children cover work relevant to their stage of development. We hold formal parent meetings in the Autumn and Spring Terms, and parents receive an annual written report towards the end of the Summer term. Parents can request to see a teacher at other times if they have any concerns regarding their child’s education.

We decide upon the most appropriate class structure each year, as pupil numbers vary in each cohort. Where possible we try not to mix year groups.

During the Reception year there is an initial baseline assessment that we are required to undertake by the government. At the end of the year, children are assessed against the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile and results shared with parents.

As children move into Year 1, during the Summer Term, there is a phonics screening test to assess the ability to recognise the correspondence between written letters and their associated sounds (phonemes). Children complete this by reading a mixture of real and nonsense words.

During the Summer Term of Year 2, all children are assessed using a nationally benchmarked test. The results of these assessments are used to inform the teacher’s judgement as to how well each child has achieved during KS1. Results are given to parents at the end of the Summer Term with the child's end of year report.

During Year 3-6, tests are held termly in reading, spelling, English and maths. The results from these tests are nationally standardised. The tests along with teacher assessment also allow the teachers to prepare work which is at the correct level for your child and informs us about what your child knows or does not know. The results of assessments and any relevant testing will be discussed at parents’ evenings.

In Year 6, the pupils sit the statutory national externally marked tests in reading, spelling and grammar and maths whilst we provide teacher assessments in writing and science.

Parents are reminded that absence during term time is detrimental to their child’s education and particularly during National tests.

The school is not affiliated to a particular religious denomination but does hold a daily act of worship which is broadly Christian in character and promotes the ethos of the school and follows the North Lincolnshire agreed syllabus for religious education

Children with special educational needs or disabilities (whether learning, physical, behavioural or emotional) are taught at their own stage of development with their own class. The school employs a number of highly trained teaching assistants to provide support from within school.

Termly Personal Pupil Plans are set up and discussed with the parents of Special Needs pupils at the termly parent evenings or as necessary. Our aim is to provide learning that is appropriate for all pupils whilst still offering access to all areas of the curriculum and activities of the school.

Staff from outside agencies can be called on to support the work of the SENDCo (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities Co-ordinator) in school. The teacher with responsibility for special educational needs offers support and help in matching resource provision and appropriate teaching strategies and in the preparation of individual educational plans.

We liaise with outside agencies as necessary and if the school considers a child to have SEND then this will be fully discussed with the parent or guardian. No outside agencies will be involved without the parent/guardian’s written consent. All areas of school occupied by children have wheelchair access.

The name of the governor designated to have oversight of this aspect of the school's work is Emma Smithen.

The name of the senior member of staff having responsibility for the school's arrangements for identifying and meeting the special needs of pupils is Mrs J Wynne.

The school follows the Special Education Needs Code of Practice (2015). Parents and pupil voice are a priority for the school. The school produce a SEN information report which includes arrangements for the admission of disabled pupils (Special Education Needs and Disability Regulations 2014). This report is updated annually and can be found on the school’s website along with the SEND policy. The initial contact is to always arrange an appointment with the headteacher to discuss arrangements and view the school. For further information, please see the SEND report/SEND policy on the school website.

Parents who have a complaint are asked to first try and resolve the problem with their child's class teacher, if this fails then the school office will direct you to the most appropriate person to resolve the matter. This is not always necessarily the headteacher. If a parent is still unsatisfied, then they should follow the procedures contained in the relevant document on the school website.

For Infant age children 10 minutes homework each evening is recommended. This usually involves the sharing of a reading book – perhaps a picture book to share and talk about, a challenging book for you to read to your child or a book for them to read to you.

Children in Reception take home a range of “Skill Sacks” during their first term at school as homework. These help them to practise their skills through a range of simple games and other activities. Later on in the year, children are given “Story Sacks” which contain a book to share at home alongside a range of other games and activities.

Other tasks are sent home as appropriate throughout the year and are linked to the children’s work in class.

All our pupils in Year 1 and 2 each week take home their reading book and are expected to spend about 10 minutes each night reading this. Each child has a weekly homework task to achieve in different aspects of the curriculum. This is usually a practical activity or a task that supports work being carried out in the classroom.

In Y3, Y4 and Y5 pupils should engage in nightly reading sessions of at least 20 minutes. This may be independent reading or with an adult depending on the pupil’s abilities. A further 10 minutes should be linked to learning multiplication tables and facts or practice of mathematical computation homework. Occasionally pupils might be given small research topics which parents can support their children in completing.

In Y6, in preparation for the national tests, and in readiness for secondary education, pupils will be expected to complete at least 30 minutes reading each night along with a 30/40 minute piece of English and maths homework each week. Occasionally pupils will be given small research topics which parents can support their children in completing. In Y6, study support sessions will be provided for some pupils, usually after school.

Parents should ensure that homework is completed on time, and provide their child with a quiet place to work where appropriate.

As part of the extended schools initiative we operate a Breakfast Club and an After School Club. Both are held in the studio hall.

The Breakfast club is run from 7:45 am to 8:45 am. Children are given a healthy breakfast – cereals, toast, fruit, milk or fruit juice and activities are provided. This is at a cost of £3 per session.

The After School club is run between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm and you can book a 1 or 2 hour session which costs £3 for each hour. Pupils enjoy many activities at this club and they have the option to have a drink, fruit and/or biscuits.

Bookings for both clubs can be made via our booking system on ParentPay. More information regarding the clubs is available via the school website – “For Parents”.

The office staff will be happy to provide further details if you are interested in this service.

We welcome the involvement of parents and grandparents in school life and they are invited into school for special occasions during the year. Examples of this include children sharing their work at class assemblies, our annual harvest festival, sports day, the summer KS2 production or the KS1 Christmas concert.

Parents are welcome to come and help in school, working with a small group of children usually in painting, model-making, reading, baking etc.

Some of our volunteer helpers come in on a regular half-day each week, while others prefer to help occasionally on a specific task.

All volunteers in school are checked using the Disclosure and Barring Service before beginning work in school and also undergo an induction programme.

Every teacher has parent interviews in the Autumn and Spring terms. You are asked to attend to discuss with the teacher your child’s progress and any problems or difficulties they may be having. In the summer term you will receive a comprehensive written report about your child’s achievements during the previous year.

Parents are allocated a 10 minute slot with their child’s teacher. If this is not sufficient a further appointment can be arranged.

In addition to formal Parents' Evenings, staff are available before or after school should you have any concerns regarding your child or there are circumstances out of school which you feel may affect his/her behaviour/progress. We simply ask that you book an appointment to see your child’s teacher by contacting the school office.

Ensuring the safety of your child is of paramount importance to the staff and governors of Broughton Primary School. Please contact school immediately if you have any concerns around the health or safety of your own child, or that of any other child. Our own safeguarding policy, child protection policy and e-safety policy are all available via the website.

We are required to inform you that in the unlikely event of a member of staff suspecting that a pupil has been deliberately harmed we are required to investigate and report this following the procedures in our policies. These procedures are based on Central Government guidance and North Lincolnshire Child Protection Guidelines.

This broadly falls into two groups. Fund-raising for school and fund-raising by school for other charities.

The children raise funds through activities such as the annual fun run.

We also want children to understand the need to help others and each year our Harvest Donations go to a charity chosen by pupils. Money is also raised for Comic Relief and the pupils can choose to participate in the annual Shoe Box Appeal. The pupil School Council plays an important role in this part of school life.

The standards of behaviour in this school are very high.

We expect all children to behave with courtesy and respect for each other and their environment.

Parents are informed when unacceptable behaviour persists so that parents and school can work together to overcome any problem.

The Golden Rules are used to help children understand what is expected of them. It would be useful if you would discuss these with your child before they begin at the school and possibly learn them by heart.

• Do be gentle (Do not hurt anybody)

• Do be kind and helpful (Do not hurt people’s feelings)

• Do work hard (Do not waste your or other people’s time)

• Do look after property (Do not waste or damage things)

• Do listen to people (Do not interrupt)

• Do be honest (Do not cover up the truth)

To support work which is taking place in the classroom and to give the children a first-hand experience of what they are studying, children often make visits out of school either in Broughton or further afield.

These visits take place during the school day and are carefully planned in advance with every care taken for the children's safety. Adult supervision is appropriate to the age of the pupils, the activities and North Lincolnshire Council guidance. An experienced First Aider accompanies the children.

Legally, we cannot charge for school visits where costs are incurred, but the Governors have agreed that we can ask parents for voluntary contributions towards the cost of the coach and any entrance fees.

Parents are electronically sent a letter giving the full itinerary and costing of any planned visits well in advance. Parents experiencing financial difficulties, are encouraged to contact the school to discuss options available.

Residential Visits

In our Year 5 and Year 6 we have residential visits to Robin Hood’s Bay and Ironbridge Gorge respectively. We feel these visits are an essential part of the curriculum and encourage all children to attend them. In the past we have had an excellent record of attendance and would hope to continue this. Please do not worry about any financial difficulties, as support is always available if needed.

We write to the parents of the year group concerned in the September prior to the Summer Term their child will attend the visit to invite them to attend a meeting at which all aspects of the visit are discussed.

We believe these residential visits are the highlight in many children’s Primary education, providing opportunities for learning, responsibility, and the real beginnings of independence and self-reliance.

Our school website always contains the latest information about term dates and forthcoming events – this is via the “For Parents" tab – then click on calendar.

Your child’s attendance at school is important, and as such, we have a number of procedures to follow to both promote attendance and ensure the safety and welfare of children.

Parents must contact school (by e-mail or telephone) before 9:30am on the first day of absence – giving the reason for this absence or have previously completed a “Leave of Absence Request” form.

If your child is ill, please refer to NHS Direct by either ringing 111 or visiting their website. Alternatively, please seek advice from your GP’s surgery.

Parents are reminded that a written reason for absence either by e-mail or by letter is required.

The school does not authorise absence during term-time unless in exceptional circumstances; examples include: the day of a family wedding or funeral.

Once your child has had 10 unauthorised school session absences (equivalent to 5 days), the Education Welfare Officer will become involved and a penalty notice may be issued.

All children leaving school early must be collected by a responsible adult and signed out from the school office. We must receive a letter explaining the reason for absence.

All children who arrive late must come to the office so that they can be signed in by a responsible adult.

Parents are reminded not to take pupils out of school during the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check; Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check or Year 6 SATs.

Starting school in is a tremendously exciting experience for a child, though it can sometimes be a daunting one. The more your child can do independently, then the more confident they will be and better able to cope with all the new experiences.

For example, it would help your child when starting school if they are able to:

• Put their own coat on;

• Fasten shoes;

• Get dressed and undressed;

• Go to the toilet and care for him/herself;

• Wash and dry hands;

• Tidy up own toys;

• Share and take turns;

• Mix with other children.

With your children it is a good idea to:

• Talk about colours;

• To count;

• To sing Nursery Rhymes;

• To read stories together;

• Talk about the pictures;

• To draw;

• To colour;

• To point out changes;

• To listen.

North Lincolnshire Council have produced an information leaflet which can be read here.

Please do remember that starting school is both an exciting and exhausting time for your child with so much that is new to find out about and to learn. Be prepared for possible tantrums in the first week or two; it doesn't mean your child is unhappy, just very tired.

We want your child to feel happy and secure at school so that he/she can develop to the fullest potential in the time he/she is with us.

If there is anything else you would like to know about our school or how you can help your child, please telephone or call at the school and arrange a visit.