PROSPECTUS
Welcome to Georgeham Primary School.
We are a village Church of England (VC)* Primary School, serving the villages of Georgeham and Croyde as well as the surrounding area. Children are taught in classes within which we provide a friendly, caring environment and insist on high standards of behaviour, which help to maintain high standards of work. Children are encouraged to take pride in their school. We encourage traditional values of politeness and self-discipline and seek to include the latest educational innovations as well as traditions like Broom Dancing and Maypole Dancing, which are performed regularly each summer.
The main building was built in 1868 and there are two annex classrooms. We also have a playgroup, Stepping Stones, on the site. In September 2002 we opened a new kitchen, another classroom, an updated hall, staff room and resources area. In the summer of 2005 we refurbished our toilet facilities.
The school has a mature wooded nature area and we have a large playing field looking out over open countryside. We have developed part of this site, with a great deal of support from the parents, to include a large all weather surface for use by all our children, together with a Trim Trail and Motivator! We also have the regular use of the Village Hall and Village playing field, both situated nearby.
Education is a partnership between home and school. This Prospectus is about the School's contribution to this home/school partnership. However, it can only give general information about the School. You will get a much better idea of what it is really like if you visit the School for yourself.
Please make an appointment and meet the children and staff. You will be made most welcome.
* Voluntary Controlled (VC) means the school was originally founded by the Church but is now financed by the Local Education Authority. Back to top
SCHOOL STAFF
Mr. J. Thomas - Headteacher
Mrs. S. Mortimer - Class Teacher
Miss E. Hill - Class Teacher
Mrs. L. Rinvolucri - Class Teacher
Mrs. M. Turner - Class Teacher
Mrs. A Gallagher - Class Teacher
Mrs. R. Evans - Part Time Teacher
Ms. K. Herbert - Administrator
Mrs. H. Cooper - Teaching Assistant
Mrs. W. Holbourn - Teaching Assistant
Ms K. Dando - Teaching Assistant
Miss V. Dilly - Teaching Assistant & Mealtime Assistant
Ms J. Ash - Teaching Assistant & Mealtime Assistant
Ms E. Trute - Teaching Assistant & Mealtime Assistant
Mrs. L. Ash - Catering Supervisor
Mrs. S. Heyland - Catering Assistant & Mealtime AssistantMr. E. Freeman - Caretaker
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OUR VALUES
We believe that a good school develops confidence and self esteem, encourages a sense of wonder, curiosity and consideration for the world around. It creates the widest opportunities and has the highest expectations for all its members both children and staff alike.
A good school recognises that a child learns courtesy, tolerance, commitment, integrity and responsibility from personal experience both at home and in school. We learn to value others by being valued ourselves, whoever we are.
In partnership with parents and with the support of the Church and wider community our school recognises a positive and enthusiastic attitude to lifelong learning.
We want to promote a sense of belonging and together with the personal qualities of honesty, kindness and self discipline thus form the basis for success and happiness in life.
OUR ETHOS STATEMENT
'This is a Church of England school in the Diocese of Exeter. Recognising its historic foundation, the school will preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the church of England and in partnership with the Church in the parish and the diocese.
The school aims to serve its community by providing an education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith, and promotes Christian values through the experiences it offers to all its pupils.'
OUR DISTINCTIVENESS AS A CHURCH OF ENGLAND SCHOOL WITHIN THE COMMUNITIES OF GEORGEHAM, CROYDE AND THE SURROUNDING HAMLETS.
We welcome children, staff and their families and friends to our school whatever their faith or tradition. Our school aims to give all pupils experience and knowledge of the Christian Faith explicitly through our Worship and RE and implicitly through our behaviour and attitudes throughout our school day. We have a special cross in our hall which was given to us by a previous Chair of Governors and truly represents the good brought by Christians helping others in our world today.
The school community is anchored to a living God, in a living community. We actively seek ministers and members of the church to support us in school to enable us to begin to have the tools to answer those fundamental questions of faith. We look to receive ministry. The local Christian churches work closely together to support each other and us. They support us through their prayers, as ministers of the Faith, through Check It Out Club for the children, INSET and discussion with the staff and as Governors of our school. As well as the church community visiting us we also visit them in church.
It is vital that we introduce children to other faiths and that they appreciate their importance to others. Again we encourage respect, questioning, visits and visitors from other faiths to give an experience to the children and a basis on which to start to work out their own values and beliefs for themselves. However, the Christian faith is the most important part of the learning in our Worship and RE lessons and a good knowledge of God, expressed as Jesus, and the stories from the Bible which support the Christian pathway through life are our aims for the children in our school. We promote respect for all our similarities and differences as a community, both in the school and as part of the wider world. Questioning and understanding about all aspects of faith and wonder, is encouraged from everyone.
CHILDREN'S VALUES AND AIMS
At Georgeham School we try to be responsible,
honest and kind.
We also try to do our best at all times.
OUR AIMS
The aims of our school are to have a secure, effective and caring learning environment where skills can be developed in partnership with parents and supported by the Church and wider community to form the basis for success and happiness in life.
We do this by:-
· providing a curriculum which is broad, balanced, stimulating and challenging. This must include Literacy and Numeracy skills but also combine good educational practice with the skills and interests of the staff to provide a curriculum which equips the children for their present and future.
· encouraging children and staff to have the highest expectations of themselves both in their work and behaviour. It is important to accept challenges and to learn both from success and failure.
· providing quality resources.
· valuing the process of learning and the skills involved as well as the end product.
· encourage and praise wherever possible.
· giving equality of opportunity to all pupils and valuing their individual contributions to the life of the school.
· allowing time to reflect on our own learning, valuing achievements,
setting new targets and making sound choices which move towards
greater independence.
· providing opportunities for teamwork so that we may enjoy co-operating
with and learning from each other.
· being there to support children and their families whenever needed,
fostering the sense of belonging and working with the Church and wider
community to achieve this. Back to top
SCHOOL GOVERNORS
Mr R. Cross (Chair) -Community Governor
Mrs H. Milton(Vice) -Parent Governor
Mr A. Austin -Foundation Governor
Mr J. Hood -Parent Governor
Mrs S. King -Parent Governor
Mrs S. Mortimer -Staff Governor
Mr B. Dean -Ex Officio/Foundation Governor
Mr M. Robathan -Community Governor
Mr J. Thomas - Head Teacher Governor
Mr A. Turner -LA Governor
The Clerk to the Governors is: Mrs V. Meek
In accordance with the current Instrument and Articles of Government for the school the term of office is for four years.
The Role of the Governing Body
1. To form close links with the school and to give encouragement and support to
the school in the pursuit of its aims and objectives.
2. To monitor continually the performance of the school and to oversee the conduct
and content of the curriculum.
3. To assess the needs of the school and monitor the fabric of the building,
campaigning where necessary for extra resources.
4. To administer the financial resources of the School.
5. To represent the legitimate concerns and interests of pupils, parents and staff and
in a wider sense thus to serve the school and the community.
Minutes and Agendas of Governor Meetings are placed on a Noticeboard in the School Hallway. Back to top
THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM
What Does The National Curriculum Mean?
The National Curriculum is a programme of studies which sets standards in all areas of the curriculum.
National Curriculum Key Stages
The National Curriculum divides children into ?Key Stages? according to their year group. These are as follows: -
Foundation Stage is for pupils in Playgroup/Nursery/Reception
Key Stage 1 is for pupils in Years 1 and 2.
Key Stage 2 is for pupils in Years 3, 4, 5 & 6.
Key Stage 3 is for pupils at the Secondary School
Key Stage 4 is for pupils at the Secondary School
Our school has children in the Foundation Stage and Key Stages 1 & 2. There are usually two classes for the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 and two classes for Key Stage 2.
How Is The Curriculum Organised?
In Georgeham we work hard to give the children a very broad and enriching curriculum covering all areas of humanities, maths, English, science, the arts, design and technology, computer technology and physical education. However, underpinning the whole ethos of our school is the belief in the value of the individual and that individual in relation to others. In developing schemes of work the School ensures they are designed to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum, the Every Child Matters agenda and our aims.
All children in School are taught the following subjects in an age-appropriate way, which is relevant to the children and often within a thematic approach. We try whenever we can to include visits and visitors to inspire and enthuse the children.Back to top
WORSHIP
Worship at Georgeham School provides a major opportunity to express the Christian ethos of the school community. It is a time when our individual integrity is respected and all faiths are valued. Caring relationships, vision, values and an awe of the world around us all play a part in this important daily celebration. As a school we encourage dialogue with parents, so that any concern about any activity is discussed to avoid misunderstanding and confusion.
Parents have the right to withdraw their children from collective worship.
Parents who wish to exercise this right should contact the Head teacher.
PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION AND CITIZENSHIP
We are further developing the whole area of PSHE through the SEAL project. (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning.) This is a programme of learning to help children appreciate themselves and others, to keep safe in all circumstances, to keep healthy physically and mentally, to learn about the importance of loving and stable relationships and to take on responsibility in their own community and the wider society.
As well as taking specific curriculum time each week children may be in the spotlight and so are the focus of positive and helpful remarks by their peers. The whole school is also divided into family groups so that everyone becomes used to being with children of different ages and helping each other in all sorts of ways. The children have a School Council where problems can be brought forward and a solution sought. The school achieved the Healthy Schools Award in July 2006.
A positive home / school partnership is crucial in this central core area of learning.
ENGLISH
We acknowledge and value the role of parents and carers in nurturing their child's language skills before starting school and continuing through their time in school. Literacy is seen as crucial for children to enjoy and develop in all areas of the curriculum. We place great emphasis on the need to speak clearly and to listen carefully and actively to others. These skills are learned and developed throughout the school. Reading for enjoyment is seen as the key to developing successful readers. Sharing books in school and at home from Reception stage onwards is encouraged and we have a wide range of books to appeal to all tastes and abilities. Competence in writing is encouraged by presenting children with a wide variety of reasons for writing, from writing a shopping list through to writing an extended story of adventure! The staff teach the literacy skills and cover the range of text as advocated by the Literacy Framework and set them within the context of the whole school curriculum.
MATHEMATICS
The School offers a range of mathematical activities to all its pupils in number, algebra, shape, measurement and data handling through the Numeracy Strategy. We recognise the value of practical work, investigations, calculator-based activities, computer skills and mathematical games. Applying mathematical skills and knowledge to real-life situations is vital and we endeavour to make the learning of mathematics meaningful and enjoyable emphasising the need for mental strategies and enabling the children to solve problems in a variety of ways.
SCIENCE
We aim to teach science through practically based investigations, initially using the child's own environment as a stimulus. The children will be introduced to many scientific concepts and skills which together will encourage them to develop an enquiring mind and a scientific approach to problem-solving, developing skills in observation, communication and prediction.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Information technology and especially computer based knowledge is an important part of our lives today. All classes have interactive whiteboards and all children have access to computers, video equipment and digital cameras, as well as audio recording equipment. We teach skills needed to use the programmes but the emphasis is as a tool, when appropriate, to enhance skills taught by the teacher in the classroom. The technology therefore reinforces concepts and ideas in an exciting and creative way.
HISTORY
History means a study of the past and how it affects life today. Children in the early years will begin by looking at events within their own memory. Children learn about the development of Britain, Europe and the world. We aim to arouse an interest in the past and an understanding of it, together with skills of interpretation, investigation, analysis, evaluation and communication.
GEOGRAPHY
Geography aims to stimulate children's interest in their local surroundings and in the variety of physical and human conditions on the Earth. The techniques and skills necessary for geographical enquiry are also taught. Comparing and valuing our locality with others is a very important aspect of Geography and Citizenship. We have a link with Kiigya School in Uganda and Amigos International to support our work about a contrasting location.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
All classes participate in Religious Education and our scheme of work is based on the Devon Approach to R.E. We aim to help children develop an understanding of the Christian faith and other world religions and lead them to an understanding of social and moral values. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from R.E. However it is hoped that all pupils will take part.
ART
Art activities aim to develop creativity and self-expression, with children given the opportunity to explore the relationship between line, shape, colour, texture and materials. Children will learn from the work of famous artists and gain experience in using a wide range of media such as paint, wood, card, dye and clay.
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
This involves designing and making, using a range of materials and components. Construction, food technology, textiles, materials and control systems are some of the areas covered. Bookmaking skills are taught and the mounting and display by children of their own work, is considered important.
MUSIC
Throughout the School, children will be involved in activities, which aim to develop their ability to perform and compose music. We try to do one large inclusive performance each year for the community. The children will also have opportunities to listen and respond to music from a variety of musical traditions. For those children who wish to, there is the opportunity to take part in music tuition, where they can learn to play wind, string, brass or keyboard instruments. Recorder and guitar is taught in school and all KS2 children have the opportunity to work as part of a class instrumental ensemble with Des Miles, our talented classical guitar teacher.
SPORT AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education is very important in our school and vital for a healthy lifestyle. We have the Activemark Gold award and this encourages children, through enjoyment, to lead a healthier lifestyle. They will become more skilful, understand a variety of sports and P.E. activities and manage success and failure in competitive and co-operative situations.
Children will experience a range of sports and physical activities such as football, netball, tag rugby, cricket, rounders, short tennis, gymnastics, athletics, dance and outdoor adventurous activities. We use the Village Hall, our playgrounds, the hall and the playing field. We work together with neighbouring schools and the Braunton Learning Community both to cooperate with courses and challenge with competitions and festivals.
Our standard of swimming is very good and we aim for all Year 6 children to swim 50 m in the deep end of a pool and be able to use skills for water safety and survival. Living so close to the sea this is a priority. We target and teach children in KS2 but many parents take their children to swimming lessons and local clubs prior to this where the provision is excellent. There is a flourishing pre-school group and any parents wishing to know more should speak to the head teacher.
We take part in tournaments as a school and we also encourage children to join clubs outside of the school ones. We have the Activemark Gold award.
SEX AND RELATIONSHIP EDUCATION
We know that most parents want to play a major part in helping to prepare their children for the physical and emotional changes inherent in growing up. There is a policy to offer Sex and Relationship Education at Georgeham School and this is complementary to parents' roles and aims to give children confidence about, and knowledge of, the processes and challenges of growing up. This preparation is broad based and is given within an age appropriate curriculum throughout the school. At all stages children are encouraged to value relationships, family life and to consider issues of right and wrong.
Throughout the school, the school nurse, teachers and other agencies work together to provide a structure based on choices and healthy lifestyles. Parents are fully informed about these sessions in advance and are invited to watch the videos.
Parents have the right to withdraw their children from Sex and Relationship Education
Parents who wish to exercise this right should contact the Head teacher.Back to top
HOW ARE THE CHILDREN ASSESSED DURING THEIR TIME AT GEORGEHAM?
Assessment is used by the teachers, to help plan the children's work. As they move through the school, their achievements are measured against clear objectives, helping to ensure a sense of personal progress. Teacher assessment helps to establish what has been successfully learned in order to clarify the next steps for individual and class planning. Group work is part of the routine of our classrooms. The children in the group are often assessed through observation. The teacher may also set a task or test to support their assessment.
Discussion with your child is an important part of our work - it helps us to find out what your child has learned and how to look constructively at their own work.
At the end of each Key Stage, KS1-Year 2, KS2-Year 6, the children will take Standard Assessment Tests, known as SATs. These are formal assessments set by the Department for Education. The results of the SATs and teacher assessments are used to establish a child's overall level in Mathematics, Science and English. Parents will receive these reports at the end of Year 2 and Year 6 for their child and the School results are published nationally. The children in our school also take tests during the Summer Term of Year 3, 4 and 5 which help to give another picture of the children's development.
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS. HOW DO WE HELP THEM? HOW WELL DO THEY DO?
If we find through our assessments that children are having difficulties we will always inform parents. The child may receive extra support within a group or individually with a teacher or teaching assistant. This intervention is evaluated as to its effectiveness by staff and governors. Our children with special needs do very well and our SATs results show they make good progress. One child raised his value added performance 14 points between KS1 and KS2 (2006) We give very specific support for reading when their reading age is below their chronological age. In the last 10 years only one child has not achieved Level 4 reading at Year 6.
We also have a gifted and talented register and again appropriate support will be given. Children are offered extra courses and extension activities are planned for them. They may also work with children in an older group if this is appropriate. We make every effort to make our teaching open ended with as many first hand experiences as possible.
The child's teacher will draw up an individual programme of work to help them. This may involve other members of staff. Parents and the children will be involved with this process so that the child is given every support needed to help them progress. This is in line with the National Code of Practice for Special Educational Needs.
The school can also call on other support professionals.
Parents will be fully informed and involved at all stages.
CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
Children with disabilities should apply for admission through the LEA and Governors will apply the normal criteria.
- looked after children
- children in the school's catchment area
- have siblings already in school
- outside catchment
Our policy on inclusion means that all children will be treated equally by the school. Should a child with a disability attend our school, we will make every effort to make our difficult site as inclusive as possible. Despite the steps at the entrance, the main school has wheelchair access and a disabled toilet. Classes can be reorganised to accommodate as necessary.
KS1 SATs Results in percentages for Children in Year 2
during May 2006 (for 2007 results please contact the school)
L= Level W=Working towards
The tests do not apply to all children and therefore the rows do not always equal 100%
TEACHER ASSESSMENTS
ENGLISH
Georgeham School 2006
Speaking & Listening W L1 7% L2 67% L3 27%
Reading Task W 7% L1 L2C 27% L2B 33% L2A L3 33%
Writing W 7% L1 L2C 33% L2B 27% L2A 20% L3 13%
Mathematics W L1 7% L2C 20% L2B 20% L2A 13% L3 40%
Science W L1 7% L2 80% L3 13%
National Comparison 2005
ENGLISH
Speaking & Listening W 2% L1 10% L2 65% L3 23%
Reading Task W 3% L1 11% L2C 13% L2B 23% L2A 23% L3 27%
Writing W 5% L1 12% L2C 21% L2B 26% L2A 20% L3 15%
Mathematics W 2% L1 7% L2C 17% L2B 24% L2A 27% L3 23%
Science W 2% L1 8% L2 65% L3 25%
KS2 SATs Results in percentages for Children in Year 6 (for 2007 results please contact the school)
ENGLISH
Georgeham School 2006--------------L3 12% L4 47% L5 41%
National Comparison 2005 not L3 6%L3 14% L4 52% L5 27%
MATHS
Georgeham School 2006---------------L3 18% L4 29% L5 53%
National Comparison 2005 not L3 6% L3 18% L4 44% L5 31%
SCIENCE
Georgeham School 2006-------------------------L4 35% L5 65%
National Comparison 2005 not L3 3% L3 10% L4 40% L5 47% Back to top
Activities out of normal school hours
Children will have a chance to join after-school clubs. These change from term to term but may involve chess, pottery, gymnastics, gardening, athletics & sports, art, computers, netball, tag rugby, kwik cricket and drama.
We visit other schools to play football, netball, etc., and compete in local tournaments.
We go on outings and residential visits form a very important part of the curriculum and the children's development.
See the rest of the website for an update of what we have been doing recently! Back to top
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE - Attendance summary for 2005/2006
We are required by law to publish the Attendance records.
% Attendance = 95.5%
We expect regular attendance. All Schools are required to keep an Attendance Register.
It is important that children attend school regularly and punctually. Please try wherever possible not to interrupt their schooling. In cases where an absence is unavoidable (however short) parents must notify the school by telephone or letter. Oral messages by children cannot be accepted. A note is required:
- if you wish your child to leave during school hours
- for children who are unable to participate in swimming/games/PE.
Education regulations state that "a pupil shall not be granted more than two weeks leave of absence in any year". (A Notification of Absence/Holiday form can be obtained from the Office).
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