Foreword Dear Parent This booklet sets out the procedure by which parents/guardians apply for a place for their children in a nursery school, nursery unit or private/voluntary group within the pre-school education expansion programme. It also contains information on all nursery schools, nursery units and private/voluntary funded groups in the Belfast Education and Library Board’s/Education Skills Authority area, including details of the admissions criteria to be used by each provider. You have the right to express a preference for the setting which you would like your child to attend and to apply for admission to that setting. This booklet has been prepared to help you make an informed choice and I would ask you to read it carefully. All providers are good but each is unique and some may meet the needs of your child better than others. This is a very exciting stage in your child’s life as it bridges the gap between home and school and marks the beginning of their educational careers. I hope that this booklet will help guide you smoothly through the procedures which the Government has established. If, however, you require any additional information or assistance please do not hesitate to contact the board’s transfer/open enrolment officer telephone number 028 90564080/90564284 who will be glad to help. Yours sincerely Dr Clare Mangan Chief Executive PLEASE NOTE This book contains references to the Education and Library Boards (ELBS) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS). During the course of this coming academic year it is planned that the ELBS AND CCMS will be dissolved and their functions transfer to the new Education and Skills Authority (ESA). Therefore all references in this book to the ELBs and CCMS should be interpreted as applying to ESA when it comes into operation. Glossary of Terms used in this Booklet Admissions Criteria The criteria drawn up by the Board of Governors of each school/management of the voluntary or private provider and applied in order to select the children to be admitted if the school/pre-school setting is over subscribed. Controlled School Controlled schools are managed and funded by the five ELBs through school Boards of Governors (BoG). A BoG consist of representatives of transferors along with representatives of parents, teachers and ELBs. Enrolment Number The maximum number of children which a pre-school setting may have on its register at any time, as determined by the Department of Education. Independent Appeal Tribunal A tribunal set up by the Education and Library Board, but independent of it, which hears appeals lodged by parents/guardians against the decisions of Boards of Governors. Integrated School These schools seek to add value to the education process by inviting Protestants and Catholics to come together with other traditions in order to improve their understanding of one another, their own cultures, religions and values. Each grant maintained integrated school is managed by a Board of Governors consisting of trustees or foundation governors along with parents, teachers and DE representatives. Irish-Medium School A school or unit within a school where teaching and learning takes place through the Irish language. Nursery Unit An approved unit providing formal nursery education, managed as part of a primary school. Pre-school Provider/Setting Funded pre-school places are available from a range of providers in a variety of settings – nursery schools, nursery units, reception classes in primary places and voluntary and private playgroups and day nurseries in receipt of funded places. Socially Disadvantaged Circumstances For the purposes of enrolment in pre-school this means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance: where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Statutory Criteria Criteria which the law states that schools must apply before applying their sub-criteria. Sub-Criteria If within one admission criterion there is oversubscription, some schools will apply a clearly defined set of sub-criteria to identify the children to be admitted. Target Age Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Underage Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Voluntary Voluntary maintained schools are managed by a BoG nominated by trustees Maintained School along with parents, teachers and ELB representatives. Please Note: This booklet contains references to the Education and Library Boards (ELB’s) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS). It is planned that the ELB’s and CCMS will be dissolved and their functions transferred to the new Education and Skills Authority (ESA). Therefore all references in this booklet to the ELB’s and CCMS should be interpreted as applying to ESA should it come into operation. 2 USEFUL ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS Contact details for the Transfer Officers located within each ELB and for the Department’s School Access Team are provided below. Mrs Patricia Hughes Belfast Education & Library Board 40 Academy Street BELFAST BT1 2NQ Tel; 028 90564080 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.belb.org.uk Mrs Maxine Harris North Eastern Education & Library Board County Hall 182 Galgorm Road BALLYMENA BT42 1HN Tel: 028 25662306 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.neelb.org.uk Mrs Mairead Maguire Southern Education & Library Board 3 Charlemont Place ARMAGH BT61 9AZ Tel: 028 37512200 E-mail: [email protected] Website: selb.org.uk Mrs Florence McCaw South-Eastern Education & Library Board Grahamsbridge Road Dundonald BELFAST BT16 2HS Tel: 028 90566200 E-mail: [email protected] Website: seelb.org.uk Mrs Liane Armstrong Western Education & Library Board Campsie House 1 Hospital Road OMAGH BT79 0AW Tel: 028 82411571 E-mail: [email protected] Website: welbni.org.uk Department of Education School Access Team Rathgael House Balloo Road BANGOR BT19 7PR Tel: 028 91279326 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.deni.gov.uk Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) 160 High Street Holywood BELFAST BT18 9HT Tel: 028 9042 6792 E-mail: [email protected] 3 ENROLMENT IN PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION: KEY DATES STAGE 1 (Friday, 10 January 2014 – Friday, 4 April 2014) CONSIDERATION OF TARGET AGE CHILDREN ONLY (i.e. children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011) Friday, 10 January 2014 (not later than 12 noon) Closing date for receipt of parents’/guardians’ application forms to first preference providers. Wednesday, 19 March 2014 Final date for receipt and consideration of new applications (will be considered as a late application), additional information and changes of preference in exceptional circumstances within Stage 1. Anything received after this date will not be considered until Stage 2 (i.e. after 4 April 2014). Friday, 4 April 2014 Issue of letters by providers advising parents/guardians of the setting for which their target age children have been accepted; and Issue of letters by the Education Boards advising parents/guardians of those target age children who have not been offered a place, advising where places are still available (if any) and how to apply for these. Wednesday, 23 April 2014 (not later than 4pm) Final date for notice of intention to appeal against *nursery schools’/units’ decisions to be received by Boards in respect of children not selected for admission during Stage 1. *(ONLY applies to Nursery Schools/Units as there is no right of appeal against a voluntary/private provider.) 4 ENROLMENT IN PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION: KEY DATES (cont’d) STAGE 2 (Monday, 7 April 2014 – Friday, 30 May 2014) CONSIDERATION OF: TARGET AGE CHILDREN WHO WERE UNPLACED IN STAGE 1 FOR WHOM FURTHER PREFERENCES HAVE BEEN NOMINATED; NEW APPLICATIONS FOR TARGET AGE CHILDREN; AND ALL UNDERAGE CHILDREN Wednesday, 30 April 2014 Date by which additional preferences for unplaced target age children are to be returned to Boards. New applications or additional preferences received after this date will be considered as ‘late’ and will not be considered in Stage 2 until all punctual target age applicants have been processed. Wednesday, 7 May 2014 Final date for receipt and consideration of new applications, additional information and changes of preference in exceptional circumstances within Stage 2. After this date any new applications/additional information/changes of preference should be sent directly to the provider(s) of the parent’s choice for consideration after 30 May 2014. Friday, 30 May 2014 Issue of letters by providers advising parents of the setting for which their child has been accepted; and Issue of letters by Boards advising parents whose children have not been offered a place and advising where places are still available (if any). Friday, 13 June 2014 (not later than 4pm) Final date for notice of intention to appeal against *nursery schools’/units’ decisions to be received by Boards in respect of children not selected for admission during Stage 2. *(ONLY applies to Nursery Schools/Units as there is no right of appeal against a voluntary/private provider.) NOTE: A target age child will always get priority over an underage applicant during the Admission Process (From 10 January 2014 to 30 May 2014). 5 PROCEDURE FOR ENROLMENT AND FURTHER INFORMATION 1 Which children qualify for pre-school education? Pre-school places are available for those children who are in the target age group i.e. who were born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 (inclusive). If there are still places available underage children i.e. those born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 MAY also be admitted – but funded places for these children are only available in nursery schools or nursery units. Voluntary/private settings normally accept children from three years of age but only those born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 will be eligible for a funded place. The target age groups are outlined in the statutory criteria for each pre-school setting. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission. 2 Where are pre-school places available and how do I obtain further information? This booklet provides information on pre-school places available in: Nursery Schools Primary Schools with Nursery Units in the Board’s area Voluntary/Private settings that have pre-school places funded by the Board (hereafter called providers) Funded pre-school places in the voluntary and private sector only applies to part-time provision (normally 5 sessions per week, each lasting at least 2½ hours per day during the school year). In nursery schools and primary schools with nursery units, attendance takes the form of full day (4½ hours per day) or part-time (2½ hours per day, either morning or afternoon sessions). A few schools have both full-time and part-time sessions. Information on the duration of classes/sessions is listed in this booklet under the detail for each provider. All funded pre-school education centres must follow common curricular guidance to plan and organise the children’s learning and are inspected regularly by the Education and Training Inspectorate. Parents/guardians should be aware that pre-school providers may levy charges for certain services offered (e.g. snacks, lunches, extra-curricular activities) once a child is admitted to a pre-school setting. Any such charges should not relate to the delivery of the pre-school curriculum, and for non-statutory providers (i.e. voluntary or private providers) should not relate to the minimum period of 2.5 hours pre-school education which is funded by the Department of Education. Charges may vary between providers, so parents/guardians may wish to clarify with their preferred providers the extent of any applicable charges prior to submitting an application. A child is only entitled to one funded place in a school or playgroup or private nursery e.g. a child may not have a funded place in a playgroup in the morning and attend a nursery school in the afternoon. Reception Class Provision In addition to the pre-school providers listed in this booklet some primary schools have reception classes for children who have reached their 4th birthday but are under compulsory school age (i.e. children born after 1 July 2010). Arrangements for admissions to these reception classes are entirely different to those relating to nursery classes. Parents/Guardians may apply to both using separate application forms for nursery and reception. Information is contained in the Primary School Admissions Information Booklets available from the primary school in which you are interested or from the Open Enrolment Office. 6 Should I arrange for my child to transfer from a funded pre-school place to a reception class in a primary school from his/her 4th birthday? Department of Education advice is that this would not be in your child’s best interests. Transferring your child to a reception class during the year is disruptive to his/her educational and social development and should be avoided. In addition, advice from the Department’s Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) is that while some reception provision is of a good standard, the quality of provision across the sector is uneven. Paying Places Many voluntary, private playgroups and private day nurseries may also have fee-paying places available for pre-school children. The arrangements for admission as described in this booklet, do not apply to fee-paying places. Parents/Guardians should make direct contact with these providers. While there is no guarantee that a child will receive a funded pre-school education place during the child’s final year of pre-compulsory education, the objective of the Pre-School Education Programme is to have a good quality pre-school education place for every child in the final year of pre-compulsory education, whose parents/guardians wish to avail of such a place. While it would be the Board’s wish to match provision to parental preference, it is recognised that a minority of parents/guardians will not be able to access a funded place in their preferred education setting. 3 Must my child go to pre-school? No. Pre-school education is not compulsory, however good quality pre-school education has important benefits. Parents make application for a funded place on the understanding that their child will attend for 5 days per week. This will enable your child to benefit fully from a quality pre-school experience. 4 Where can I get an application form? Application forms can be obtained from any provider listed in this book (preferably your first choice) or from the Board’s website: www.belb.org.uk /Application for admission to Pre-School Education. 5 Completion of Application Form A sample copy of the application form is set out on pages 14-15. Only one application form can be submitted and on it list all the providers where you would be willing to accept a place (continue on a separate sheet if required). All parents seeking a funded pre-school place for their child must complete an application form, even if their child’s name is already on a waiting list for admission. SECTION A Complete your child’s name, date of birth, home address including house number and postcode, and parent/guardian’s details. SECTION B This section allows you to list up to six preferences i.e. six places where you would consider sending your child and to state the reasons for your preferences. You are strongly advised to list more than one preference, as there is no guarantee that you will be successful in obtaining a place at your first preference provider as they may receive more applications than they have funded places. Only list the providers that are included in the boards’ booklets and ensure that the published name (not local name) is used. If a provider has more applications than places, it must select children for admission by applying the admissions criteria. It is vitally important that you give the provider all the information that is relevant to either the statutory criteria or the sub-criteria determined by the provider. If all applicants meet the statutory criteria, it is the individual provider’s sub-criteria that determine which children are selected for admission. 7 These sub-criteria could include whether the child has a family connection with the school/playgroup e.g. a brother or sister previously attended, the distance of a child’s home to the school/playgroup, etc. If you do not put the information on the form as to how your child meets a particular criterion then the provider cannot give your child consideration under this criterion. Some further examples of relevant information are given on the form but you should examine the criteria of those providers that you are listing as preferences, consider how your child meets these and list this under each of your preferences and attach any verifying documents if requested by each provider. Preferences - The legislation recognises up to two preferences to a provider where full-time and part-time places are available. This means if you would prefer a full-time place for your child at a provider but would also be willing to accept as a lower preference a part-time place you should name that provider twice on the form. This can be consecutively but this is not necessarily the case, e.g. 1 2 3 Provider A Provider B Provider A full-time place full-time place part-time place However, the legislation does not differentiate between a part-time morning session and a part-time afternoon session. The distribution of part-time places i.e. a morning or an afternoon session is a matter for the provider. SECTION C The statutory criteria require providers to give preference to children from socially disadvantaged circumstances in their target age year. This is defined by the Department of Education as a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance: where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. When parents/guardians apply for places for their child on this basis they must have their application form stamped by the Social Security Agency to confirm they are in receipt of Income Support, Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Employment Support Allowance where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the level of benefit remains the same. NB The onus is on parents/guardians to ensure that the form is stamped and submitted to the first preference setting by 12 noon on or before Friday 10 January 2014. SECTION D Read the declarations, sign and date the form. If you are in any doubt or there are points which you wish to clarify attach an explanatory note. If a parent/guardian gives false or misleading information (e.g. date of birth, home address) and because of this the child obtains a place, the place will be withdrawn. If you are in doubt you should check with the first preference principal/playgroup leader and/or obtain advice from the Board. Verifying Documents Birth Certificates are required with the application form. Some providers request other verification documents with the application form. Others indicate that they may contact parents/guardians if they require further documentation. Please read the admissions criteria carefully, not just for your first preference provider but for all the providers named on your application form. 8 Where documents are requested before/during the procedure, acceptance will be conditional on documents being supplied, and it is important that they are submitted within the timescale requested by the provider. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide verifying documents according to the required deadline may result in either the withdrawal of a place or the inability of a provider to offer a place. 6 Who do I return the form to? The form must be completed and returned with a copy of your child’s birth certificate to your first preference provider by 12 noon on or before Friday 10 January 2014. 7 Admissions Procedure (a) How do pre-school providers decide who to accept? If a pre-school provider has sufficient places all eligible children will be accepted. If a provider has more applications than funded places it will be required, by law, to give priority to: i. children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* in their final pre-school year i.e. born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 (inclusive); ii. children not falling within sub-paragraph (i.) in their final pre-school year; *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance: where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Pre-school providers will implement this legal requirement through application of the statutory admission criteria. If there are more applications meeting a particular statutory criterion than there are places available then the provider will select between these applicants by applying its own subcriteria. These sub-criteria normally differ from provider to provider. The admissions procedure is in two stages: Stage 1 of the procedure (Friday 10 January 2014 – Friday 4 April 2014) deals only with target age children. Stage 2 of the procedure (Monday 7 April 2014 – Friday 30 May 2014) deals with those target age children who did not secure a place in Stage 1 and who have now nominated further preferences from a list of settings with vacant places and those children not yet in their target age year i.e. underage. NB: A target age child will always get priority over an underage pre-school age child during the admissions procedure. (b) Application of the criteria/procedure Stage 1 (Friday 10 January 2014 – Friday 4 April 2014) At stage one only applications for children in their target age year will be considered. If there are more places available than there are applications, then the provider will accept all these applications. If there are more applications than places available, then the Board of Governors/Management Committee must select children for admission by firstly applying the statutory criteria in order and, if necessary, their sub-criteria. The application forms of those children not selected will be returned to the Board for onward transmission to the next provider named on the application form. 9 This procedure continues until: The child is selected by a provider named on the form. All preferences named have not selected the child. The time allowed for Stage 1 has elapsed. During Stage 1 - Changes of preferences in Exceptional Circumstances/New applications/ Additional information Apart from those necessitated by exceptional circumstances, no changes of preference will be processed during Stage 1. If you wish to change your preference, for any reason other than in exceptional circumstances, you must withdraw the original application and submit a new application. If this occurs after 12 noon on Friday 10 January 2014 your new application will be treated as a Late application. If you wish to change your preference because of exceptional circumstances eg change of address which necessitates a change or preference, you must submit a written request for a change of preference to the Board for approval along with verification of the exceptional circumstances. If approved, the Board will amend the original application form and send it to the new first preference provider. If the original form was received on time by the original first preference provider, it will be regarded by the new first preference provider as a punctual, First Preference application. The final date by which the Board will process any changes necessitated by exceptional circumstances is Wednesday 19 March 2014 at 4.00 pm. Wednesday 19 March 2014 at 4.00 pm is also the final date by which the Board will process any additional information or new applications. After this date changes of preference in exceptional circumstances/additional information/new applications will not be processed until Stage 2 (Monday 7 April 2014 – Friday 30 May 2014). Recalling children refused admission within Stage 1 If any places subsequently become available in an oversubscribed setting (between Monday 7 April 2014 – Friday 30 May 2014) these places should be allocated immediately to any children refused admission in Stage 1 and according to their place in the rank order at the end of Stage 1. Stage 2 (Monday 7 April 2014 - Friday 30 May 2014) At this stage school based providers with places available consider applications received for target aged children who were unplaced at the end of Stage 1 and who have now nominated further preferences and applications received for underage children along with any new applications. Voluntary and private providers with places available will consider applications for target age children who were unplaced at the end of Stage 1 who have now nominated further preferences and any new applications from target aged children. These settings are not permitted to consider applications from underage children. The procedure similar to that described for Stage 1 will operate. During Stage 2 - Changes of applications/Additional information preferences in Exceptional Circumstances/ New Apart from those necessitated by exceptional circumstances, no changes of preference will be processed during Stage 2. If you wish to change your preference, for any reason other than in exceptional circumstances, you must withdraw the original application and submit a new application. If this occurs after 12 noon on Wednesday 30 April 2014 your new application will be treated as a Late application in Stage 2. If you wish to change your preference because of exceptional circumstances eg change of address which necessitates a change or preference, you must submit a written request for a change of preference to the Board for approval along with verification of the exceptional circumstances. If approved, the Board will amend the original application form and send it to the new first preference provider. If the original form was received on time by the original first preference provider, it will be regarded by the new first preference provider as a punctual, First Preference application. 10 The final date by which the Board will process any changes necessitated by exceptional circumstances is Wednesday 7 May 2014 at 4.00 pm. Wednesday 7 May 2014 at 4.00 pm is also the final date by which the Board will process any new applications/additional information. After this date changes of preference in exceptional circumstances/additional information/new applications should be communicated directly to the provider(s) of your choice for consideration after Friday 30 May 2014. Except in relation to the appeals procedure, the Pre-School Admission Procedure concludes on Friday 30 May 2014. Waiting Lists – please refer to each individual providers policy if you wish your child’s name to be placed on a waiting list should a vacancy arise in an over-subscribed provider after 30 May 2014. (c) When would my application be considered late? Stage 1: Friday 10 January 2014 - Friday 4 April 2014 Consideration of applications from target age children ONLY (i.e. born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011). If your application is received after 12 noon on the 10 January 2014 your application will be treated as late and will not be considered until all punctual target age applications are considered. If the setting has less applications than available places (i.e. undersubscribed) your child will be offered a place. Please note, that due to the restrictions of the timetable, it may not be possible to process all the preferences listed on an application form by Friday 4 April 2014. Note: If your application is received after Wednesday 19 March 2014 it will not be considered until Stage 2 of the procedure. Boards do not have the discretion to treat an application received after 12 noon on 10 January 2014 as punctual. Stage 2: Monday 7 April 2014 – Friday 30 May 2014 Consideration of new applications and additional preferences from target age children not placed in Stage 1. Applications from underage children will also be considered at this stage by Nursery Schools and Nursery Units only. Unplaced target aged children whose application was ‘late’ in Stage 1 will now be treated on an equal basis with all other applications in Stage 2. Any new applications/additional information/additional preferences received after Wednesday 30 April 2014 will be considered as ‘late’ in Stage 2. Whilst these will be processed up until Wednesday 7 May 2014 they will not be considered until all punctual target age applications are considered. Please note, that due to the restrictions of the timetable, it may not be possible to process all the preferences listed on an application form by Friday 30 May 2014. Underage Applicants (children born between 2 July 2011 – 1 July 2012) If your application is received after 12 noon on Friday 10 January 2014 it is late and will only be considered in Stage 2 of the process if the nursery schools/units listed are undersubscribed. (d) When will I be notified? There are two dates of notification: i. Stage 1 – Target Aged Children (i.e. born between 2 July 2010 – 1 July 2011) Providers will issue letters to this group on Friday 4 April 2014 advising those parents/guardians whose children they are accepting. The board will also advise parents/guardians of those children not selected by any provider and will include information regarding places available, if any, and a request for further preferences for Stage 2. 11 ii. Stage 2 – Underage Children (i.e. born between 2 July 2011 – 1 July 2012) Providers will issue letters to this group on Friday 30 May 2014 advising those parents/guardians whose children they are accepting AND to all other selected applicants (i.e. those pre-school children not selected at Stage 1). The board will also advise parents/guardians of those children not selected by any provider and will include information regarding places available, if any. (e) When will any document(s) that I have attached to my application form be returned to me? All original documents will be returned to you by the provider where your child is placed. The Board will return all documents to those who have been unsuccessful in securing a pre-school place on Friday 30 May 2014. 8 Can I submit more than one application? NO. If you submit more than one application form you will have made a false declaration. In the event that parents are discovered to have lodged more than one application form, then the first application lodged will be treated as the formal expression of parental preference and all other application forms will not be processed. 9 Can I indicate preferences for settings in different board areas on the same form? Yes. All Boards operate the same system. 10 Can I indicate a preference for a non-funded place on the form? The open enrolment procedure only relates to the provision of funded places. If you are interested in a paying place at a voluntary or private provider you should contact the provider directly. If you do name a paying place on the application form, the board will not process this preference but will uplift the next preference listed that has funded places and process accordingly. 11 Do I need to complete a new application form if my child is already attending a Nursery School/Unit? Yes. There will be no automatic entitlement to a second year pre-school education placement. 12 Appeals (a) Can I appeal against a decision not to admit my child? Only in the case of applications made to a nursery school or nursery unit can you appeal to an Independent Appeal Tribunal. However, the Tribunal’s powers are limited. An appeal can only be brought on the grounds that the school’s criteria were not applied or were not correctly applied in deciding to refuse a child admission to the school/unit. There is no right of appeal to the Independent Appeal Tribunal against a decision by a private or voluntary provider or where a parent has indicated a preference for a morning part-time place and an afternoon part-time place is offered (or vice versa). An Independent Appeal Tribunal only has the power to consider appeals against the allocation of a fulltime or a part-time place. It does not have the power to distinguish between a morning part-time and an afternoon part-time place therefore there is no right of appeal. Members can only consider information available to the Board of Governors at the time it made its decision. New evidence cannot be considered. 12 (b) How do I appeal? You must write to the Clerk of the Appeal Tribunal (Nursery), Belfast Education and Library Board, Belfast, BT1 2NQ indicating your intention to appeal and this must be received in writing on or before: 4.00 pm on Wednesday 23 April 2014 for Stage 1 children 4.00 pm on Friday 13 June 2014 for Stage 2 children Please give your child’s name, date of birth and the nursery school(s)/unit(s) that you wish to appeal against. NB: At the time of going to print, this booklet provides details of presently approved preschool providers. It should be noted however that providers can withdraw from the scheme. The Department of Education has indicated that in order to qualify for funded places a provider must have enrolled at least 8 children in their immediate pre-school year. Parents/Guardians should be aware therefore that providers can be required to withdraw, or may withdraw voluntarily, from the scheme at any time. In the unlikely event that this happens the Board will uplift the next preference listed that has funded places and process accordingly. The information in this booklet relates to the 2014/15 school year and all information is correct at time of going to print. 13 FOR PRE-SCHOOL USE Received by 1st preference provider Date Time Initials Birth Certificate checked & attached Target Age Young Age EDUCATION AND LIBRARY BOARDS OF NI Please Note: This application form contains references to the Education and Library Boards (ELBs). It is planned that the ELBs will be dissolved and their functions will transfer to the new Education and Skills Authority (ESA). Therefore all references on this form to the ELBs should be interpreted as applying to ESA when it comes into operation. APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION TO PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION IN THE 2014/15 SCHOOL YEAR Please read the Board’s Information Booklet(s) before completing this form. Pay particular attention to the guidance on completing the form and the Admissions Criteria of the schools/playgroups/private nurseries which you are nominating as preferences. Schools/playgroups/private nurseries are hereafter called providers. This form only refers to applications to providers with places funded by a Board. PLEASE COMPLETE IN BLACK INK SECTION A YOUR CHILD Child’s Surname* ___________________________ Child’s Forename(s)* (*as recorded on birth certificate) Boy Girl Child’s Date of Birth _______________ BIRTH CERTIFICATE SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO THIS FORM Name(s) of Parent(s) or Guardian(s) Dr/Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms Child’s Home Address __________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Postcode ____________________ Parent’s/Guardian’s Tel Number: (Home)___________________ (Work)_________________ (Mobile)________________ SECTION B PREFERENCES, SESSIONS, AND REASONS FOR PREFERENCE Before completing this section you should read the admissions criteria. Providers cannot be held responsible for refusing your child a place if you do not detail the relevant information on this form or do not attach any documentation requested. Relevant information MAY include: nearest provider to child’s home; living in Parish; eldest child; brother(s)/sister(s) are attending or have attended; details of special circumstances (evidence may be required). Where a school provider has both full-time and part-time sessions you may have to list the school twice as a preference. Under SESSION below please record your preferences – tick FT (Fulltime) or PT (Part-time). (NOTE: FT is usually 4½ hours per day, 5 days per week. PT is usually 2 ½ hours per day, 5 days per week) If you do not nominate sufficient preferences there is a possibility your child will not secure a pre-school place. SESSION (see above) For Board Use PREFERENCES State Name of Provider and reasons Selected Not (FT or PT) for preference which relate to Admissions Criteria Selected please tick (continue on a separate sheet if necessary) FT 1st ______________________________________________ OR PT Reasons for preference: _________________________________________________________________ FT 2nd _____________________________________________ OR PT Reasons for preference: _________________________________________________________________ FT 3rd _____________________________________________ OR PT Reasons for preference: _________________________________________________________________ FT 4th _____________________________________________ OR PT Reasons for preference: _________________________________________________________________ FT 5th _____________________________________________ OR PT Reasons for preference: _________________________________________________________________ FT 6th _____________________________________________ OR PT Reasons for preference: _________________________________________________________________ 14 PLEASE READ THE ADMISSIONS CRITERIA FOR ALL PROVIDERS NAMED OVERLEAF AND LIST BELOW THE DOCUMENTS, IF ANY, WHICH YOU ARE ATTACHING TO THIS FORM. If you have further preferences please continue on a separate sheet and put the name of your child at the top. Please tick if further preferences are attached: Please tick if your child is being assessed for Special Educational Needs SECTION C SOCIAL DISADVANTAGE If you are claiming priority because of social disadvantage you MUST take this form to your local Social Security Office where the information below will be completed. The providers will not be able to give priority unless the box below has been stamped by the Social Security Agency. Entitled to Income Support Entitled to Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance Entitled to Employment Support Allowance (*providing the conditions below are met) NB: *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance: where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Name of person holding entitlement: ____________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE OFFICIAL STAMP Certified by _______________________ Date _____________________________ SECTION D DECLARATION I confirm that:(a) This form is used to list all providers regardless of board area. (b) This is the ONLY application form submitted for pre-school education in respect of the child named overleaf. NB: In the event that parents/guardians are discovered to have lodged more than one application form, then the first application lodged will be treated as the formal expression of parental preference and all other application forms will not be considered. (c) I have read the published Admissions Criteria of the providers nominated overleaf. (d) I am aware that my child can only avail of ONE funded place in a school/playgroup or private nursery. (e) The address I have given is the child’s home address and NOT the address of a child minder/another relative or a business address. (f) I understand that it is my responsibility to provide all relevant information on or attached to this application form. (g) The details I have given on this form are correct. I am aware if a place is awarded on the basis of false information it will be withdrawn. Signed (Parent/Guardian) Date THIS FORM MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE FIRST PREFERENCE PROVIDER NO LATER THAN 12 NOON ON FRIDAY 10 JANUARY 2014 DATA PROTECTION STATEMENT – The information on this form is required by the Board for the purpose of processing your application. The information is covered by the provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998. Your signature to the form is deemed to be an authorisation by you to allow the Board to process and retain the information for the purpose(s) stated. 15 Alphabetical Index Name of Nursery School / Unit Arellian Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 5NS Avoniel Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT5 4SF Ballysillan Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT14 8LT Bethlehem Nursery School, Belfast, BT6 0BW Black Mountain Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT13 3TT Botanic Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT7 1QY Brefne Nursery School, Belfast, BT15 5EH Cathedral Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 4HB Cliftonville Integrated Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT14 6JQ Dundela Infants’ Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT4 3BL Edenderry Nursery School, Belfast, BT13 3GW Euston Street Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT6 9AG Fane Street Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT9 7BW Gaelscoil Na Bhfal Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT12 6AW Glenbank Nursery School, Belfast, BT14 8BW Glendhu Nursery School, Belfast, BT2 2RJ Greenwood Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT4 3HS Harmony Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT13 3SY Hazelwood Integrated Primary School Nursery Unit, Newtownabbey, BT36 7EN Holy Child Nursery School, Belfast, BT11 8JP Holy Child Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT11 8JF Holy Cross Nursery School, Belfast, BT14 7NZ Holy Family Nursery School, Belfast, BT15 2HR Holy Rosary Nursery School, Belfast, BT7 3DB Hope Nursery School, Belfast, BT13 1DN Knocknagoney Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT4 2NR Lowwood Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT15 4BL Matt Talbot Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 7HS McArthur Nursery School, Belfast, BT5 4FE Naiscoil an tSleibhe Dhuibh, Belfast, BT12 7JL Naiscoil Bheann Mhadagain, Belfast, BT14 6HP Naiscoil Bhreandain, Belfast, BT11 9QS Nettlefield Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT6 8BG New Lodge Nursery School, Belfast, BT15 2EL Oldpark Nursery School, Belfast, BT14 6GN Orangefield Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT5 6BA Our Lady's Nursery School, Belfast, BT14 6NN Ravenscroft Nursery School, Belfast, BT5 5BA Rosetta Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT6 0JA Sandbrook Nursery School, Belfast, BT4 1NG Scoil an Droichid Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT7 2EP Seaview Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT15 3NB Shaftesbury Nursery School, Belfast, BT13 2HS St Anne’s Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT10 0LF St Bernadette's Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 7JG St Bride's Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT9 6FP St Clare’s Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT13 2LJ St Malachy's Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT7 2AT St Maria Goretti Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 7PS St Martin's Nursery School, Belfast, BT11 8EJ St Mary's Nursery School, Newtownabbey, BT36 7DG St Matthew's Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT5 4EW St Michael's Nursery School, Belfast, BT11 9JP St Oliver Plunkett Nursery School, Belfast, BT11 8AY St Paul's Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 7NE 16 Page No 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 35 37 39 41 43 46 48 50 52 54 56 59 62 65 67 69 72 74 76 78 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98 101 103 105 107 109 111 113 116 118 121 124 127 129 131 133 135 138 140 St Peter's Nursery School, Belfast, BT12 4EJ St Teresa's Nursery School, Belfast, BT11 8HR St Vincent de Paul Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT14 8DP Stanhope Street Nursery School, Belfast, BT13 1BX Stranmillis Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT9 5EH Taughmonagh Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT9 6QL Tudor Lodge Nursery School, Belfast, BT13 1LY Victoria Nursery School, Belfast, BT15 2EN Wheatfield Primary School Nursery Unit, Belfast, BT14 7JE 142 145 149 151 153 156 158 161 163 Voluntary and Private Providers 165 17 ARELLIAN NURSERY SCHOOL 50 BENTHAM DRIVE BELFAST BT12 5NS Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9032 5280 Principal: Ms J Pogue BEd (HONS) PG Dip Ed M.Ed Arellian was the first Nursery School in Ireland. Founded in 1928 by the Arellian Association (old girls of Richmond Lodge) the members staffed and funded the school from 1928 to 1948 before it was handed over to the Belfast Education Authority. The Arellian Association continues to play a very active role in the life of the school and we are fortunate to have members of the Association on our present Board of Governors. The school is situated on a spacious green site and benefits from extensive playground areas. In addition to the well equipped classrooms, there is also a quiet/story room, newly constructed cloakroom area, meals kitchen and staff room. The aim of Arellian Nursery School is to provide a broad based balanced curriculum to enable each child to acquire and develop skills, knowledge, attitudes and values so that he/she may realise his/her full potential. Learning takes place within the context of a happy, caring environment which encourages the children to become secure and independent. Our ongoing programme of theme work throughout the year is complemented by educational trips and visits from a number of people who work in the local community. The school acknowledges that parents are the first educators of their children and strives throughout the nursery years to develop meaningful partnerships with them for the good of the child. Frequent opportunities are offered to parents to discuss their child’s progress and to participate in the many activities and events which are organised throughout the year. We endeavour to keep parents informed about all aspects of the school with parent/teacher interviews, regular newsletters and a parents’ information board. Every pupil attending our school is unique. Each child will learn in a different way and at a different rate. To ensure that each and every child is making progress staff keep comprehensive records detailing development throughout the school year. A prospectus which fully details the life of Arellian Nursery School can be obtained on request from the school. FUNCTION OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS AND PRINCIPAL IN RELATION TO ADMISSION The function of the Board of Governors is to determine the criteria for admissions to the school, it delegates to the principal and an admissions sub-committee responsibility for applying criteria to applicants for admissions. 18 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 31 August 2011. 4 Children born between 1 September 2011 and 1 July 2012. Sub-criteria a Children who live nearest to the school as measured from the child’s home to the nearest school gate. (Priority will be given to those who live the shortest distance from the school as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey map of the district). b Children who have had a brother or sister, half-brother/half-sister/foster child enrolled or previously enrolled in the school. (Indicate name and date of attendance) c If places are available for those children who fall into the areas of criteria numbered 3-4 they will be allocated on the basis of chronological order ie the eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Arellian Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 19 AVONIEL PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT AVONIEL ROAD BELFAST BT5 4SF Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9045 7736 Fax No: 028 9045 6951 Email: [email protected] Acting Principals: F Doherty, S McQuoid Avoniel Primary School Nursery Unit is a bright, purpose built nursery, which opened in 1980 and is situated in the grounds of Avoniel Primary School. There are two colourful classrooms and a large landscaped outdoor area. We have provision for 52 full-time places with dinner provided in situ. The nursery unit is staffed by 2 qualified teachers and 2 full-time nursery assistants all of whom have specialised qualifications in early years education. Our aim is to promote the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of every child through carefully planned activities in a happy, relaxed, stimulating environment. At Avoniel Primary School Nursery Unit we believe that education is a partnership between the nursery and home in which open communication and parental involvement is encouraged. We regard the support and contribution of parents as vital to the success of the nursery. Parents are kept fully informed of nursery life through monthly news sheets and parental interviews. They are also encouraged to participate in the extensive Parent Support Programme run by the main school which includes essential literacy, numeracy and computer classes. The nursery has close links with the main school and in order to ensure a smooth transition to Primary 1 the nursery children visit the main building throughout the year. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admissions criteria and has delegated to the Principal its function and responsibilities in the relation of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the school. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The criteria will be applied in the order in which they are set down. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 20 Sub-criteria Should the number of children who satisfy the requirement of any of the first four criteria (ie those dealing with children in their final pre-school year) exceed the number of places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Children for whom Avoniel Primary School Nursery Unit has been listed on the application form as first preference. b Children who have brothers/sisters, half brothers/half sisters or other children living permanently at the same address currently attending Avoniel primary School or brothers/sisters, half brothers/half sisters or other children living permanently at the same address who previously attended Avoniel Primary School. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) c Children who will have a parent/guardian in employment in Avoniel Primary School in the school year 2014/2015. d Distance as determined by a straight line measurement from the front door of the child’s home to the nursery entrance. Measurement will be generated electronically using the Ordnance Survey website. Penultimate Pre-School Year 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first. For those children born on the same day, sub-criterion d will apply for final selection. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission. These admission arrangements will apply for the 2013/2014 school year but may be revised in subsequent years at the discretion of the Board of Governors. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Avoniel Nursery School Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 21 BALLYSILLAN PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT BALLYSILLAN PARK BELFAST BT14 8LT Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9039 1668 www.ballysillanps.ik.org Fax No: 028 9071 4645 Acting Principal: Mrs Michele Megrath BEd The Nursery Unit is an integral part of the school and we benefit from using the school facilities to enhance the children’s learning. The nursery staff work closely with the Foundation Stage Teachers to ensure a smooth transition into P1 and that the children’s skills and knowledge are effectively built upon. Parents are welcomed into the school and are encouraged to be part of a strong partnership between nursery and home this is done through regular newsletters, meetings, the school website and through special events like the Christmas and Summer concerts. Children start the nursery in small groups so that they have the opportunity to get to know each other. The emphasis will be upon co-operation and collaboration through play both inside and outside. Children will participate in learning experiences which are aimed at developing them physically, socially, emotionally, educationally and raising their awareness of acceptable behaviour. The staff make home visits prior to children starting to offer advice and support for the settling in process. Alternatively parents and children are invited to visit the school during the summer term. Prospective parents are welcome to visit the nursery during the open day held in December, or by arrangement with the principal. Each month there is a topic related visit or trip to enrich and support the children’s learning, in addition to this, we have regular visits from the dental nurse who support us in our healthy eating plan. Nursery children are welcome to attend the school breakfast club which starts at 8.10am. Current staffing is the principal teacher and two qualified assistants. The nursery welcomes students on placement and acknowledge their contribution to the smooth running of the school. Children attend a full-day session: Monday – Thursday 8.55am – 1.30pm Friday 8.55am – 1pm ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 22 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 31 August 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 4 Children born between 1 September 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 5 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 31 August 2011. 6 Children born between 1 September 2011 and 1 July 2012. Sub-criteria Where at any stage in the above criteria the number of applications exceeds the number of places available the Board of Governors will apply the following sub-criteria in the order set down. a Children whose brother/sister, a half-brother and/or a half-sister have attended or currently attend the Primary School (P1- P7). (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) b Children who have family connections with the Primary School (P1-P7) eg parents, cousins, relations of present or past pupils. (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) c Children who have listed Ballysillan as first preference on the application form. d Children who live in the immediate area of the school. Priority will be given to those who live the shortest distance from their home to the front/back gate of the school as measured using Google Street Maps. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Ballysillan Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 23 BETHLEHEM NURSERY SCHOOL 516 RAVENHILL ROAD BELFAST BT6 0BW Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9064 0406 Principal: Mrs Jacqueline Mallon Bethlehem Nursery School, the first Catholic nursery school to open in Northern Ireland in 1960 was originally built to cater for children in residential care. The building is positioned a safe distance from the road on a spacious site with attractive grassed and wetpour safety surfacing and a fully enclosed playground. It is a two unit nursery school which accommodates 52 children. The staffing consists of Principal plus one assistant teacher and 2 nursery assistants who have a wide range of experience and expertise. The Board of Governors is very supportive. Our aim is to help each child develop intellectually, socially, physically and spiritually and our curriculum is designed with this in mind. The nursery school is characterised for its friendly atmosphere where children are valued and parents are made welcome. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Admissions Criteria will be applied by a Nursery Admissions Sub-Committee consisting of the Principal and three Governors subject to the final approval of the Board of Governors. In the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for September 2014. Priority must be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the parish of Holy Rosary. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who have had a brother/sister attending Bethlehem Nursery School or St Michael’s Primary School. (Indicate name and year group) 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the parish of Holy Rosary. 24 5 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who have special home circumstances/needs. All documented evidence must be attached to the Application Form: a twins or triplets. b one or more parents deceased. c a parent with a serious long term illness. (medical evidence required) d children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is a permanent member of staff of Bethlehem Nursery School or St Michael’s Primary School or a member of the Board of Governors of Bethlehem Nursery School or the child of a parent/guardian who is a permanent member of staff of any school in the Parish of Holy Rosary. 6 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parents/guardians live in the parish of St Anthony’s bounded by the following roadways: My Lady’s Road, Willowfield Street, Castlereagh Road, Ladas Drive, Cregagh Road, Ardenlee Avenue and Ravenhill Road. 7 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the event of over-subscription within any of the above criteria, preference will be given to those who: a) list Bethlehem Nursery School as their first preference b) children whose surname begin with the following random selection of lettersC L R H S Q M G W Mac E K T J O (including O’) N V F P Z Y B Mc A X I D U In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of initials of forenames will be used. If places are still available after all pre-school children are placed, remaining places will be allocated to children in their penultimate pre-school year ie children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 in accordance with chronological order – eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 the above criteria will be applied to all children on the school’s waiting list. Parents of children who were not offered a place at Bethlehem Nursery School may have their child’s name included on the school’s waiting list by contacting the school in writing. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 25 BLACK MOUNTAIN PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT BLACK MOUNTAIN PLACE BELFAST BT13 3TT Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 90326086 Telephone No: 028 90237463 Mainschool Nursery Unit Acting Principal: Mrs J Black Bed Hons PQH Black Mountain Primary School Nursery Unit is a safe, caring and stimulating learning environment. The main unit is a large, bright and well equipped playroom which enjoys access to the enclosed outdoor play and garden. The unit can accommodate 26 children on a full-time basis. The Nursery day is from 8.55 am to 1.30 pm with lunch at 12 noon. The Nursery is staffed by one teacher and one assistant. Nursery staff support all children in accessing the Nursery curriculum in a fun and challenging way while fostering their self-confidence and promoting their independence. A warm welcome is extended to all parents/carers as we aim to work in partnership with them in developing their child’s full potential while making them feel secure and valued as part of the school. In conjunction with the main school an after schools family club exists for part of the school year to further strengthen our links. Parents are also invited to attend workshops throughout the year which aim to support them in educating their children. To enhance the children’s learning experiences we organise several educational visits and outings throughout the year, parents have the opportunity to join us on many of these. Any prospective parent/carer who would like to visit the Nursery is very welcome to do so. Please feel free to contact the Nursery direct to arrange a suitable time. Application forms are available from both the Nursery Unit and the main school. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Preference will be given to children who are: 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011; 3 Any remaining place will be allocated on the basis of eldest first. 26 Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription when the above criteria are applied the following subcriteria will be applied. a Preference will be give to children in their final pre-school year, whose parents have listed Black Mountain Nursery as their first choice of setting. b Places will be offered to children with a sibling attending Black Mountain Primary School/Unit and are in their final pre-school year. (Indicate name and year group) c Preference will be given to children already attending Black Mountain Playgroup or Nursery in the year prior to their pre-school year. d Children not already selected who have family connections with the school ie employment of a parent/grandparent/guardian on the teaching or non-teaching staff or whose parent/grandparent is a member of the Board of Governors. e Consideration will be given to children who have Special Educational Needs as determined by the Board’s Educational Psychology Service and are in their final pre-school year. f Final selection will be made on the basis of closeness of the home to the school as measured by ‘google maps’ using the information provided on the application form, both the house number and the postcode will be entered. Places will be offered to other children in their final pre-school year, on the basis of age ie. oldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Black Mountain Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 27 BOTANIC PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT 6 BOTANIC COURT BELFAST BT7 1QY Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9032 8346 Fax No: 028 9033 1961 [email protected] Principal: Mr P Bell B.A. M.Ed. PQH Botanic Nursery Unit, attached to Botanic Primary School, is in a very pleasant situation overlooking Botanic Gardens, having its own Nursery playground and large garden/grass area. There is one class in the unit operating on a full-time enrolment basis. The school day is from 9.00am to 1.30pm with lunch at 12 noon. Being within close proximity to Queens’ University, foreign students’ and lecturers’ children often attend both the nursery class and primary school, giving it an interesting and healthy multi-cultural mix. The overall aim of nursery education is to promote the child’s all round development - physical, intellectual, social, emotional, aesthetic and creative and this is fostered through a planned programme of stimulating activities. We hope to provide each child with, not only a well balanced curriculum, but also a very happy and memorable time in their early years. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA FOR NURSERY UNIT 2014/2015 The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admission criteria and has delegated to the principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the school. The criteria will be applied in the order in which they are set down. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the event of over-subscription, within any of the above criteria, the following subcriteria will be applied: (a) Children who have listed Botanic Nursery school as their first preference. (b) Children who have a brother/sister, half brother/half sister currently enrolled in Botanic Primary School/Nursery Unit. (Indicate name and year group) 28 (c) Children who have had a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister enrolled in Botanic Primary School/Nursery Unit. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) (d) Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) homes are closest to the Nursery Unit as measured using a website that calculates the distance (as the crow flies) between the School postcode – BT7 1QY and the postcode of the applicant such as www.freemaptools.com/how-far-is-it-between.htm In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to the other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3 final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, sub-criterion (d) will apply for final selection. The above criteria will be used where places become available during the school year 2013/2014. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Botanic Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 29 BREFNE NURSERY SCHOOL 111 SALISBURY AVENUE BELFAST BT15 5EH Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone/Fax No: 028 9077 6270 Principal: Mrs Deborah Anderson Brefne Nursery School is a single unit nursery school offering early years’ education to 26 children from 9am – 1.30pm each day. It prides itself on providing quality pre-school education in a caring, child-centred environment. At Brefne Nursery School we see our children as individuals who come to us with a variety of experiences which we can nurture and build upon. We aim to be an extension of the home environment and see the parents as our partners in the education of the children. We would encourage our parents to come into the school to see what we are doing and to have a look at the various displays of photographs and artwork around the room. Parents are kept informed of the activities in school through our monthly newsletters and through our website www.brefne.ik.org. We value the daily contact with parents/carers of our children and will always welcome them and take time to listen to what they have to say. Parents have the opportunity to discuss the progress of their child informally and also through appointments with the principal. We welcome parental involvement in the running of the nursery. Brefne is a spacious, well-equipped nursery school. We value the role of outdoor as well as indoor play and have recently upgraded our outdoor area. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admissions criteria and has delegated to the Principal and a sub-committee of governors its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the school. In the event of the school being over-subscribed the criteria will be applied in the order set down. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 31 August 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 4 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 31 August 2011. 30 5 Children born between 1 September 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 6 Children born between 1 September 2011 and 1 July 2012. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription in any of the above criteria the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down. A place will be offered to: a a child for whom Brefne is listed as first preference on the application form. b a child whose parent/grandparent is a permanent member of the school staff or currently a school governor or opted on to the Board of Governors. c a child who is a brother/sister, half-brother/sister of a pupil or former pupil of Brefne Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) d a child whose home address is nearest to the nursery school. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement on the Ordnance Survey map from the Nursery School to the child’s house. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Brefne Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 31 CATHEDRAL NURSERY SCHOOL 45A ALBERT STREET BELFAST BT12 4HB Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9043 9340 Principal: Mrs U Barr MEd, DASE, BEd Cathedral Nursery School is a purpose built school set in secure enclosed grounds. It was opened in November 1998 and is located in the heart of St Peter’s parish. The nursery offers 52 full-time nursery places which take the form of two classes of 26 children. The school is staffed by three full-time qualified members of staff, two teachers, one full-time nursery assistant, three part-time nursery assistants and a parent liaison nursery assistant. Both teachers are trained in primary movement and one nursery assistant has completed ELKLAN speech and language programme. All staff members provide speech and language sessions. In partnership with parents Cathedral Nursery School aims to promote the development of happy, secure, confident children who are striving towards independent learning while working in a Catholic environment where they have respect for themselves and others. The nursery school provides a broad and balanced curriculum which meets the needs of individual pupils, while incorporating the religious programme for Catholic nursery schools. The nursery school encourages the involvement of parents in the work of the school through school trips, classroom based activities, the mother and toddler group and a range of parent classes. Currently an extended schools programme offers breakfast club from 8.30 – 9.00 and afterschool club 1.30 – 3.00 Monday to Friday. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the Parishes of St Peter’s and St Mary’s. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parishes of St Peter’s and St Mary’s. 32 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 5 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 from the parishes of St Peter’s and St Mary’s who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special educational needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. Documentary evidence must be submitted to Board of Governors. 6 Other children in their penultimate pre-school year from the parishes of St Peter’s and St Mary’s. 7 Other children in their penultimate pre-school year. Sub-criteria for pre-school children In the event of more pupils satisfying the last criterion which can be applied in the order of priority set down above, then selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following sub-criteria: 1 Any child returning for a second year in Cathedral Nursery School. 2 Priority given to pupils who put Cathedral Nursery School as their first preference. 3 Child or grandchild of a member of staff or school governor. 4 Children currently on the “at risk” register maintained by the Social Services. This information must be attached to the nursery application form. 5 Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances, considered in the following order: a) a child who has one or both parents deceased b) a child whose parent has a serious long-term illness - medical evidence required c) children who are twins (or other multiple birth) 6 Children with brothers and sisters who previously attended Cathedral Nursery School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 7 Children with brothers/sisters/half-brothers/half-sisters presently enrolled in St Joseph’s, St Peter’s Primary School. (Indicate name and year group) In the event of over-subscription within any of the above sub-criteria priority will be given to those who live closest to the nursery school as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the nursery school. Sub-criteria for penultimate pre-school children 1 Age of child – oldest first. 2 Distance as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map from the pupils front door to the nursery school. 33 Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Cathedral Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 34 CLIFTONVILLE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT 93 CLIFTONVILLE ROAD BELFAST BT14 6JQ Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9035 1638 Principal: Miss B McMullen, MEd BEd DASE PQH Nursery Teacher: Mrs S Coey B.Ed(Hons) The Nursery class is an integral part of Cliftonville Integrated Primary School. It offers places for 26 children from 9am to 1.30pm daily and draws children from all sections of the community. The internal accommodation consists of an inviting entrance hall; an airy, well equipped playroom; child sized toilets; kitchen and utility and storage areas. Outdoor activities are enhanced by a play area with shrubs and trees. In inclement weather a covered play area enables children to play outside in the fresh air. The Nursery aims to create a happy, friendly and flexible learning environment in which each child is given the opportunity to develop his/her full potential in every aspect of growth. Qualified and experienced staff support children in their learning and provide a balanced, stimulating curriculum. We encourage parents to be involved in all aspects of their child’s nursery experience and to work in partnership with the nursery staff. Children will be selected by the Board of Governors which delegates to the Principal and such staff as he may nominate responsibility for applying criteria to applicants. Priority will be given in the order set out below to children: *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the event of applications exceeding available places in any of the categories 1-2 priority will be given to children: a Whose parent/guardian is in permanent employment in Cliftonville Primary School (including its meals kitchen). 35 b Whose brother/sister or half-brother/sister is currently or formerly a pupil of Cliftonville Primary School. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) c Whose parent/guardian is a former pupil of Cliftonville Primary School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) d Who lives nearest to the school as measured by drawing a straight line on an official Ordnance Survey map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the nursery school. The Board of Governors would advise parents of children born after 1 July 2010 that maximum benefits of nursery education may be gained by those children who are of sufficient maturity to cope with such a situation. Parents are reminded that placement in a nursery environment is for the educational benefit of a child rather than a form of childminding for the benefit of parents. Should places still be available these will be offered to children in the following order: 3 Born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 4 Born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of applications exceeding available places in any of the categories 3-4 priority will be given to the oldest children with, if necessary, the additional application of sub-criteria (a d). During the 2014/2015 year the above criteria will be applied to fill a vacancy arising within the stated enrolment number. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Cliftonville Integrated Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 36 DUNDELA INFANTS’ PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT WILGAR STREET BELFAST BT4 3BL Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9047 1234 Fax No: 028 90471234 Email: [email protected] Principal: Miss S H Mackey Dundela Infants’ School and Nursery Unit is situated on a pleasant site between Dundela Avenue and Wilgar Street. The Nursery Unit is an integral part of the school with close links built up and maintained between staff, pupils and parents. All places will be offered on a full-time basis from 9.00 am - 1.30 pm each day. The staff in the Nursery Unit consists of one full-time teacher, two part-time teachers and three nursery assistants. The Nursery classrooms are well equipped and there is also a wide range of equipment available for outdoor play. The curriculum offers activities designed to promote intellectual, personal, social, physical and spiritual development. Each child is respected as an individual. Parents are greatly valued by the school and are encouraged to participate in their child’s education. Nursery parents are also invited to become involved in the PTA which supports the school in many ways. Prospective parents are invited to attend an Open Afternoon/Evening which will be held on Tuesday 3 December 2013, 1.45-2.45pm and 7.00-8.00pm. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the admissions criteria and has delegated to the principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admissions of pupils. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on, or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include attendance of brothers/sisters etc giving names and dates of attendance. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission. Pre-School Year The regulations require the admissions criteria to give priority to children in the following order: 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 37 Sub-criteria The Board of Governors has drawn up sub-criteria to be used should the number of children who satisfy the requirement of any criterion exceed the number of places still available within the school’s admission number. These criteria will be applied successively and in the order set down, to the group of children who satisfied the criterion which caused the number of places available to be exceeded, until all of the places have been allocated. a Children for whom Dundela Infants’ School Nursery Unit has been listed on the application form as first preference. b Children who have brothers/sisters, half brothers/half sisters or other children living permanently at the same address who i) are currently attending Dundela Infants’ School (P1-P3 classes) or ii) previously attended Dundela Infants’ School (P1-P3 classes) and are currently attending Strandtown Primary School (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) c Children who have a parent/guardian employed by Dundela Infants’ School and Nursery Unit or Strandtown Primary School (excluding staff employed by the School Meals Service). d Places will be granted in order of priority determined by the proximity of the child’s permanent residence to the school. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement generated electronically using a computer programme provided by Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland. In the event of two or more children’s permanent residence being measured equidistant for the final place, children will be selected for admission on the basis of initial letter of surname (as entered on the Birth Certificate) in the order set out below: KHEGLPIQZSBJOMTRDVXUYNWACF This order was determined by a randomized selection of the letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter, the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used. Penultimate Pre-School Year 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, sub-criterion d will apply for final selection. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications to nursery that were initially refused, new applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 31 August 2014. After 1 September 2014 parents must inform the school in writing if they wish their child’s name to remain on the waiting list. The published criteria will be applied if a vacancy arises after 1 September 2014. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 38 Controlled Nursery School EDENDERRY NURSERY SCHOOL 4-22 UPPER RIGA STREET BELFAST BT13 3GW Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9023 8651 Principal: Ms N Magrath B.Ed (Hons) DASE, M.Ed, PQH M.B.E ‘Where learning is fun so we can enjoy the future’ Edenderry Nursery School is situated in the Shankill area of North Belfast. We can be found at the Upper Riga Street entrance to Glenwood Primary School and are proud to offer a pleasant, cheerful and child centred building. Within the school there are two classrooms that are well equipped and resourced with toys that young children love. Each classroom has access to a children’s toilet area, story room and storage space. Outdoors, the sensory garden is enclosed and partially covered. There is a mix of grass, paving stones, bark and safety mats in this area. We also have a Parent’s area, Office, School meal’s servery and Utility Room. School life revolves around the belief that each child should be given every opportunity to develop to their full potential, to grow in self-confidence, experience success and thus develop a good self-image. This is achieved through genuine working links with parents with the free sharing of information and also a complete and thorough curriculum. We greatly welcome parents into our practice and place a strong value on home and school links. Parents can participate in school life, access workshops and courses and enjoy learning themselves. At Edenderry Nursery School your child will be encouraged to develop at their own rate in key areas of learning – social/emotional, language/communication, creative/aesthetic, mathematics, the world around us and physical skills. The school programme is enriched by visits outside the school and welcoming relevant guest speakers and experts to come in and meet our children. We value and enjoy strong community and cross-community partnerships. We were last inspected in May 2013 and found to be ‘outstanding’ in all areas. We have an innovative and friendly staff team who are highly motivated, qualified and dedicated to every child’s well being and learning. The maximum number of children that can be enrolled in the school is 52, 26 in each classroom. Children generally attend the school for one year before going to Primary School. Both classrooms operate a ‘through day’ which means the children will attend from 8.45 am to 1.30 pm each day. Staff hours are from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm and staff are available to see parents outside teaching hours. The nursery school also offers an after school facility and holiday club. Parents who are considering making an application for a nursery place are welcome to contact the school office at the above address or telephone number. An open morning is also organised for 11 December at 9.30am – 10.30am Everyone is welcome! ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors will apply the Department of Education criteria in allocating places for September 2014. 39 *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 4 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Sub-criteria Where the school is oversubscribed at any stage the following sub-criteria will be used in addition if necessary: 1 2 3 4 Those applicants who have stated Edenderry Nursery School as their first preference. Children of serving members of Edenderry Nursery School Board of Governors and grand-children and children of staff working in Edenderry. In the case of places in the criteria numbered 1-2, preference will be given according to proximity to the school of the child’s home address, that is, the address at which they sleep, as measured by ‘google maps’ using the information provided on the application form, both the house number and the postcode will be entered. In the event of a tie, children will be admitted in chronological order, ie the oldest first. If places are available for those children who fall into the areas of criteria numbered 3-4 they will be allocated on the basis of chronological order ie the eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Edenderry Nursery School, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 40 EUSTON STREET PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT EUSTON STREET BELFAST BT6 9AG Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9045 7089 Fax No: 028 9045 7122 Principal: Mrs J Currie BEd (Hons) PQH (NI) Being situated within the primary school, the nursery has the advantage of being able to make full use of the facilities offered by the school as well as its own excellent resources. The unit comprises two large playrooms, an indoor soft play area with interactive sound equipment and an excellent fully enclosed soft surface outdoor play area. The nursery is well equipped, both indoors and outdoors. The aim of the unit is to promote the all round development of the child in a happy, secure, relaxed environment, working in partnership with parents. Qualified and experienced staff support the children in their learning and provide a balanced, stimulating curriculum, whilst catering for their individual needs. The unit is also very proud of its information technology computer systems which introduce children to computers at an early age and make learning fun. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Children will be admitted to Euston Street Nursery unit according to the following ordered criteria: 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription in any of the above criteria the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Children with siblings/half siblings/step siblings attending Euston Street Primary School (Y1-Y7) or have had siblings/half siblings/step siblings who attended Euston Street Primary School (Y1-Y7). (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) 41 b Children who have or have had a parent/grandparent as a permanent member of staff (teaching or non-teaching) /Board of Governors in the school. c Children who put Euston Street Nursery Unit as their first preference. d Children who live in the immediate area of the school in the order of closest proximity to the school. Measured by car from the front door of the Nursery School entrance to the front door of the home address. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3 final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, sub-criteria d will apply for final selection. A copy of the Waiting List Policy will be added to the School Prospectus and displayed on the school website. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 42 FANE STREET PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT FANE STREET BELFAST BT9 7BW Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 90381945 Fax No: 028 90683034 Email: [email protected] Principal: Mr S Orr M.Ed. B.Ed. (Hons) PQH (NI) The nursery unit is situated within Fane Street Primary School which opened in 1976, occupying premises built in 1929. The nursery children are therefore able to make use of the school facilities including a large assembly hall, a gymnasium, two enclosed gardens which have recently been refurbished with state-of-the-art outdoor play equipment, an outdoor classroom and a vegetable patch. The gardens support our environmental studies programme and outdoor play policies and we have achieved the Green Flag award. The school has been highly commended for several years in the Best Kept School competition and was named the Best Kept School in Belfast for 2011. Additionally, the nursery has a separate garden and outdoor play area which have also recently been refurbished. The unit operates on a full-day basis, and school meals are purchased by parents each day. The close contact between all of the school staff ensures a smooth transition from nursery to P1. The nursery curriculum is delivered by our experienced staff in a caring and safe environment with the emphasis being on ensuring that the children are relaxed, happy and safe whilst learning and developing to achieve their full potential. Parents are encouraged to come into the nursery at the beginning and end of each day and to participate in activities and outings with the children and school staff. We expect our children to wear school uniform and we appreciate the support of parents regarding this matter. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admissions criteria and has delegated to the Principal its functions and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the school. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 43 In the event of over-subscription, within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied: 1 Children who have an older brother or sister or half brother or half sister currently enrolled in the primary school. (Indicate name and year group) 2 Children who list Fane Street Nursery as their first preference. 3 Children enrolled in the nursery in the previous academic year. 4 Children who have had a family member enrolled in the primary school between academic year 2008-2009 to 2013-2014. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance by parent on application form) 5 Children who reside with their parent(s)/guardian(s) in the area that the school has traditionally served, defined as: that area bounded by Donegall Avenue, Donegall Road, Glenmachen Street, Olympia Parade and Olympia Drive. that area bounded by Northbrook Street, Great Northern Street, Rathgar Street, Lisburn Road, the northern side of Dunluce Avenue and of Fane Street. 6 Eldest child first. Any children born on the same day will be prioritized by the proximity of the residence of the child, on the date of application, to the school. Please Note: Family member is defined as cousin, aunt, uncle, half-cousin, step-aunt or step-uncle. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide evidence in support of this claim. NB Proximity will be determined between the front gate of the school and the child’s residence as measured on google maps travelling by car. The child’s residence is that address where the child permanently resides with his/her parent(s)/guardian(s), and does not include the home of a grandparent, childminder or any other carer. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA PENULTIMATE PRE-SCHOOL YEAR Any places remaining will be allocated using the criteria identified below: 1 Children who have siblings who have attended or currently attend Fane Street Primary School. (Indicate name, date and year group of attendance) 2 Children who list Fane Street as their first preference. 3 Children (eldest first) who reside with their parent(s)/guardian(s) in the area that the school has traditionally served, defined as: that area bounded by Donegall Avenue, Donegall Road, Glenmachen Street, Olympia Parade and Olympia Drive. that area bounded by Northbrook Street, Great Northern Street, Rathgar Street, Lisburn Road, the northern side of Dunluce Avenue and of Fane Street. 4 Eldest child first. 5 The Proximity of the child, on the date of application, to the school. 44 Nursery Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Fane Street Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will NOT be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be placed on this. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 45 GAELSCOIL NA BHFAL NURSERY UNIT 34A IVEAGH CRESCENT BELFAST BT12 6AW Grant Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9023 6877 Principal: Ms Aine Andrews General Information Gaelscoil na bhFál Nursery Unit is a self contained unit with its own facilities situated within the primary school complex. It provides twenty six full time places and is open to all children, regardless of sex, religion or politics whose parents are choosing Irish-medium education for their child, whose parents wish to access the pre-requisite preparatory pre-school langauge immersion programme for their child and have shown themselves willing to support their child in the decision they have made. Curriculum Gaelscoil na bhFál Nursery Unit provides a high quality child centred curriculum. It offers:- a high standard of physical and emotional care; a wide range of active play-based learning experiences; a wide range of both free and structured play experiences. In particular it offers:- an effective second language immersion programme – a pre-requisite for entry to Gaelscoil na bhFál Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. In the context of the Nursery Unit’s underpinning values, purpose and principles the following criteria will be applied in the event of over subscription:1 Children who are in their immediate pre-school year, whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Other children who are in their immediate pre-school year. 46 Sub-criteria In the event of over subscription within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the following order. a) Children who have spent their penultimate year in this school. b) Children who have or have had a sibling, or a half sibling from within the same household, attending Gaelscoil na bhFál and whose parents have accepted a place in the Irish-medium pre-preschool programme, Gaelspraoi or Tús Maith, in Ionad Úibh Eachach. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) c) Children for whom Irish is a first language and whose parents have completed the Gaelscoil na bhFál Expression of Interest Form and have subsequently accepted a place in the Irish-medium prepreschool programme, Gaelspraoi or Tús Maith, in Ionad Úibh Eachach. d) Children whose parents have completed the Gaelscoil na bhFál Expression of Interest Form and have subsequently accepted a place in the Irish-medium pre-preschool programme, Gaelspraoi or Tús Maith in Ionad Úibh Eachach. In the event of continuing oversubscription in any of the above criteria priority in the following order will be given to:i children whose parents are currently permanent employees in Gaelscoil na bhFál. ii children whose parents are currently established employees in Ionad Úibh Eachach. iii children in the order in which their parents have completed the expression of interest form. iv children who are resident within the area for which Gaelscoil na bhFál nursery unit is the nearest Irish-medium nursery unit. v children who are being minded or whose parents work within the area for which Gaelscoil na bhFál nursery unit is the nearest nursery unit. vi children who are resident outside the area for which Gaelscoil na bhFál Nursery Unit is the nearest Irish-medium nursery unit. In the application of criteria iii and iv, proximity will be based on the shortest walking distance from the child’s home to school measured along main route to the nearest school gate. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Gaelscoil na bhFál Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 47 GLENBANK NURSERY SCHOOL 117A LIGONIEL ROAD BELFAST BT14 8BW Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone/Fax No: 028 9039 1724 Website: www.glenbank.org.uk Principal: Mrs Jenny Clarke B Ed (Hons) PQH ‘LIVING together, LOVING all, LEARNING for the future’ Glenbank Nursery School aims to provide a happy, relaxed atmosphere in which children are given every opportunity to excell. We want to develop good communication skills and the ability to learn together. Children are helped to become more confident and independent. Their time at nursery is a precious period in a child’s development and we will give them every opportunity to be prepared and inspired for their future lives. Glenbank Nursery School occupies a separate unit, designed for nursery use, which was formerly part of Ligoniel Primary School. The elevated site has stunning views over Belfast. There is a large attractive playroom, quiet room, hall and toilet area. The school has direct access to its own large secure garden which is very well equipped with outdoor play equipment. Glenbank was previously awarded Best Kept Small School in Belfast. We are a religiously mixed school with all sections of the community welcome to attend. We value the impact of visitors to our school and welcome many different people. The children benefit from visits to several other locations of educational interest, throughout the year. The school has close links with relevant health professionals and parents are invited to attend talks by the dentist and speech therapist who work closely with the staff. A range of courses are on offer to parents, run during school hours. We run a book and story sack library within the school. Each year we support at least one children’s charity. The support, interest and cooperation of parents is a very important aspect of nursery life, not only helping with material needs, but acting as equal partners with staff in the development of the children. Prospective parents and children are very welcome to visit the school on one of our ‘open’ afternoons, Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 December 2.00 – 3.00pm. Please contact Jenny to arrange an alternative appointment if these dates don’t suit. Current staffing is Principal teacher and one full-time qualified assistant. The school welcomes students on placement and acknowledge their contribution to the smooth running of the school. Children attend a full-day session. Monday & Tuesday Wednesday & Thursday Friday 8.45 – 2.00pm 8.45 – 1.30pm 8.45 – 12.30pm Glenbank Nursery School has a very supportive Board of Governors who are keenly interested in all aspects of the school. 48 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors and Principal will apply the Department of Education criteria in allocating places for September 2014. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Priority will be given in the following order: 1 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. Children who were born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who at the time of their proposed admission will not have a pre-school education place, whether full-time or part-time, at another school or any other premises. In the event of applications exceeding places in any of the above the following sub-criteria will be applied: Sub Criteria a Children who have listed Glenbank Nursery School as first preference on the application form. b Children whose brother/sister have attended or currently attend Glenbank Nursery School. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) c Children whose brother/sister are currently enrolled at Ligoniel Primary School. (Indicate name and year group) d A child whose parent is a member of Glenbank Nursery School staff, Ligoniel Primary School staff or currently a member of the Board of Governors of Glenbank Nursery School. e Eldest or only child in the family. f Children whose permanent residence is the shortest distance from the school. Distance will be measured using Google Maps distance calculator from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the school. In the event of two or more children’s permanent residence being measured equal distance for the final place, children will be selected by age with the oldest being selected first. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, sub-criterion f will apply for final selection. After Friday 30 May 2014, any parent whose child was not offered a place will be contacted to see if they wish to remain on our waiting list. New applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied to fill a vacancy. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. We will contact you in writing if your child gains a place by this method. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 49 GLENDHU NURSERY SCHOOL Controlled Nursery School 10-18 Glendhu Manor Garnerville Road BELFAST BT4 2RJ Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 90768462 Principal: Mrs Heather Barbour B.A.(Hons) M.Ed. P.G.C.E. Glendhu Nursery School was rebuilt in 2009. It is a bright, modern facility built to an exceptionally high standard. The interior design works in harmony with the spacious, mature garden, resulting in a calm, natural and very child-centred environment. As well as an extensive sheltered play space, the grounds offer a sandhouse where groups of children can play together in all weathers, a vast area of tarmac for developing many aspects of physical play and a digging pit for planting and growing flowers and vegetables. The garden itself incorporates lawns and shrubs, and contains a large willow tree which has been used for the new logo. The school offers nursery education on a full-time basis to the children in the locality. Twentysix children are admitted to the school each year. The school is open from 8.30 am - 3.30 pm each day. The full-time teaching session is from 9.00 am - 1.30 pm. The staff consists of a Principal teacher and a Nursery Assistant, both well experienced, a Caretaker/Cleaner and Dining Attendant. It is the policy of Glendhu Nursery School to work together with parents to create a safe, caring environment in which each child, through the varied play activities provided, will be enabled to develop to his/her full potential in every aspect of growth - socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Through the carefully structured play situations the children are helped to make their own discoveries, experience success and grow in self-confidence and independence. The Nursery was inspected in March 2010 and the full report is available on www.etini.gov.uk. The Board of Governors positively supports the work of the staff and meets regularly to discuss all aspects of the school. They help to provide a well maintained and resourced building in which the children can experience all aspects of the Nursery Curriculum. The support, interest and co-operation of parents are very important aspects of Nursery life, not only helping with fund-raising events and the frequent nursery school outings, but also for the sharing and exchange of learning opportunities which have taken place in home and school. Prospective parents who wish to visit the school or seek advice on admission may do so by telephoning the Principal before 9.00 am or after 2.00 pm each day. An Open Afternoon for parents and children will be held on Monday 9 December from 2.00 – 3.00pm and an Open Evening for parents/guardians only will be held on Monday 9 December from 7.30 – 8.30pm. 50 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the event of over-subscription within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the following order: a Children whose parents/guardians have listed Glendhu Nursery School as their first preference b Children of permanent employees or members of the Board of Governors. c Preference will be given to children with a brother/sister, half-brother/sister who has attended or currently attends the school. Children fostered within such a family are included. Application MUST include details of previous child’s dates of attendance. d Priority will be given to children on the basis of proximity of their home address to the school. Children who live nearer this school than any other controlled nursery school or nursery unit offering full-time places, will be given preference. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement on the Ordnance Survey map from the front door of the child’s home to the entrance of the nursery school. If necessary, a tie-breaker by random selection will be used to allocate a final place. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, criterion 4d will apply for final selection. Waiting List Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all initial applications where Glendhu was listed as first preference will be reconsidered and the admissions criteria re-applied as published. (Exceptions to this would be additional applications where applicants fulfil criterion 1). This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 51 GREENWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT 436 UPPER NEWTOWNARDS ROAD BELFAST BT4 3HS Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Part-time Telephone No: 028 9047 1610 Fax No: 028 9067 3558 Principal: Mrs Christine Harper M.Ed, B.Ed (Hons) Cert.Ed., PGDE, PQH General Information The nursery is housed in a modern self-contained unit with full facilities for effective pre-school provision. In addition, there is a large purpose built outdoor play area with safety surface. The unit is situated in the grounds to the front of Greenwood Primary School and is an integral part of the school providing 52 part-time places in 2 sessions (8.45 am - 11.15 am and 12.15 pm to 2.45 pm). Our aim is to develop the social, emotional, physical and intellectual needs of the child, using a planned programme of learning and experience through play. Each child will be catered for according to his/her needs, building on their previous knowledge and skills. Close links with the school are fostered by use of facilities, where relevant, thus ensuring a smooth transition into the primary sector. Parents are encouraged to be fully involved as much as possible in both the life of the school and the progress and development of their child. Prospective parents may visit the nursery during the open day held in December, or by arrangement with the principal. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has delegated to the Principal its functions and responsibilities in relation to the application of the admissions of pupils. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Should there be more applications than free places available, the following criteria will be applied in order: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year (ie born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011). 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year (dates above). 52 Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription within criteria 1-2, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the following order: a priority will be given to those who list Greenwood Nursery Unit as first preference. b Children who have a parent/guardian permanently School/Nursery Unit or Strandtown Primary School. c Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister, or other children living permanently at the same address, currently attending Greenwood Primary School or who have previously attended Greenwood in P1 - P3 classes and are currently attending Strandtown Primary School. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) d Remaining places will be granted in order determined by the proximity of the child’s permanent residence to the school. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement. Measurement will be generated electronically using the Ordnance Survey website. e In the event of a tie children will be selected for admission on the basis of initial letter of surname as entered on a birth certificate in the order set out below: employed by Greenwood Primary R S C M W O K J V P Y Mc X D U L H Q G Mac E T N F Z B A I This order was determined by a randomised selection of the letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used. Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Greenwood Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 31 August 2014. Parents must inform the school in writing if they wish their child’s name to be placed on the waiting list for any place which become available after 1 September 2014. The above criteria b-e will then be applied to fill a vacancy within the school’s admission number. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 53 HARMONY PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT FORTHRIVER CRESCENT BELFAST BT13 3SY Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9039 1332 Principal: Mrs A. Hutchinson B.ED, D.A.S.E. Harmony Nursery Unit is a bright, modern two unit Nursery in the grounds of Harmony Primary School, situated in the Glencairn Estate. The Nursery offers 52 places on a full-time basis. Nursery hours: 9.00am – 1.30pm, with lunch at 12 noon. At Harmony we pride ourselves in offering quality nursery provision for all our children. In 2012, the Nursery had an Inspection. The Inspectors found that we were a very good Nursery and that our Pastoral Care was outstanding and behaviour was excellent. There were excellent opportunities to learn in all areas of the curriculum – particularly the children’s very good social skills and the progress in their language development and understanding of early maths. Our Nursery aims to provide pastoral care and to encourage Parent/Teacher cooperation and involvement, to ensure each child benefits fully from his/her Nursery experience, sharing and exchanging learning opportunities which have taken place at home and in Nursery. Parents are welcome at all times and arrangements can be made for further contact between staff and parents, (e.g. helping at the Book Lending Service, Nursery Outings, etc.) In conjunction with the primary school, courses are available for parents who wish to develop their own skills in helping their children. Admissions Criteria Pre-School Year *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* in their final pre-school year; Children not falling within sub-paragraph (1) in their final pre-school year; and who at the time of their proposed admission will not have a pre-school education place whether fulltime or part-time at another school nor any other premises. Sub-criteria The following sub-criteria will be applied in the following order in the event of the number of applications in each category exceeding the nursery’s admissions number. a Priority will be given to those children who have listed Harmony Nursery Unit as their first preference. b Children not already selected who will have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister in the school, in the school year 2014/2015. (Indicate name and year group) 54 c Children not already selected who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister who used to attend Harmony Primary School (P1-P7). (Indicate name and date of attendance) d Children not already selected who have family connections with the school ie employment of a parent/grandparent/guardian on the teaching or non-teaching staff or whose parent /grandparent/guardian is a member of the Board of Governors. e Final selection will be made on the basis of closeness of the parent’s home to the school as measured by a straight line from the child’s front door to the front door of the nursery unit as measured by ‘Google Maps’. (Glencairn estate and then any other children from other areas). When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admission criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. For example, whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Penultimate Pre-School Year The Board of Governors would advise parents of children born after 2 July 2011 that maximum benefits of nursery education may be gained by those children who are of sufficient maturity to cope with such a situation. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first and those who have chosen Harmony Nursery Unit as their first preference. Those children born on the same day, sub- criterion (e) will apply for final selection. Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Pre–school year / Penultimate year that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Parents must inform the school in writing if they wish their child’s name to be placed on the waiting list should a place become available after 1 September 2014. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 55 HAZELWOOD INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY 242 Whitewell Road NEWTOWNABBEY BT36 7EN Grant Maintained Nursery Enrolment : No 52 Full-time Places Telephone No: 028 9077 0421 Principal: Mrs P Murtagh Hazelwood Integrated Nursery prides itself on being a warm and welcoming environment for both parents and children. It is situated in a purpose-built double unit in the grounds of Hazelwood Integrated Primary School. Very strong links exist between the two schools. The Nursery aims to provide quality pre-school education in a planned integrated setting using a child-centred philosophy and promoting a high level of parental involvement. The aim is also to provide a safe, happy and stimulating environment which promotes each child’s social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Parents play a major role in the life of the school, helping their own children, teachers, and by contributing to the activities of the PTA and the Board of Governors. Nursery children may attend the Breakfast Club or After School Club in the Primary. They also have access to Forest School Activities and can make use of the school library, adventure playground and sports field. More information can be found on our website link: www.hazelwoodips.co.uk Dates and hours of opening - September 2014 September and October November to June 9.00 am - 12.00 pm 9.00 am - 2.00 pm Note: All Nursery children will have access to supervised care in the Primary School in the After School Club from 2.00pm to 3.00 pm should it be required. Staffing numbers and qualifications 2 full-time nursery teachers (BEd Hons) 3 full-time nursery assistants (NVQ Level 3 or equivalent) Special Needs Policy Hazelwood welcomes children with identified special needs as long as the specific needs of the child can be met by the existing resources within the setting. If during the year it becomes evident that a child has additional needs then the SENCO from the primary school becomes involved and in conjunction with outside agencies these needs will be assessed and appropriate support sought. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admissions criteria in accordance with the Department of Education regulations and has delegated to the Admissions Committee its functions and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria in the admission of pupils to the school. We are committed to maintaining our religious balance. The criteria set out below will be applied to applicants from Roman Catholic, Protestant/other Christian backgrounds. We will reserve 20% of places for others who may be from a ‘mixed’ tradition background, from a different religious/ethnic grouping or from those of no religious affiliation. 56 In order to establish this balance it is therefore essential that all parents who seek a place for their child complete our Pupil Information Form to indicate in which category their son/daughter is to be included. This form is available from the school office. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form/Pupil Information Form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it eg eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. In the event of the Nursery being over-subscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below: 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of the Nursery being oversubscribed using any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set out below:(i) Parents who have chosen Hazelwood Nursery as their first choice. (ii) Children who have a sibling/half-sibling or foster sibling, living in the same home, who currently attends Hazelwood Integrated Primary or Nursery School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) (iii) Siblings or children of past pupils of Hazelwood Integrated Primary or Nursery School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) (iv) Eldest child in the family. (v) Parents who have demonstrated a commitment to integrated education in the following ways: a Parents who are past pupils of Hazelwood Integrated College. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) b Siblings of children who currently attend Hazelwood Integrated College. (Indicate name and year group) c Parents who have attended an integrated school. (Indicate name, name of school and dates of attendance) 57 If over-subscribed in any of the above sub-criteria, taken in order, final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname in the order set down below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. C S G M Mc B R H J Y D W L I F P N O X K T A V Z U Q The order was determined by a randomized selection of letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames with the same initial letter the subsequent letter of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initial letter of the first forename as registered on the birth certificate will be used. In the event of first forenames beginning with the same letter the subsequent letters of the forename will be used. Children who are unsuccessful in this admissions process will have their name automatically placed on a waiting list in line with the ordered criteria and randomized alphabetical order above. Applications received after 10 January 2014 will be placed at the end of this list. Should a vacancy arise after 30 May 2014 we will contact families on the list in order of placement, (while continuing to maintain our religious balance). This waiting list will remain valid until 30 June 2015. Please contact the school if you wish your child’s name to be removed from the list. 58 HOLY CHILD NURSERY SCHOOL 40 SLIEVEGALLION DRIVE BELFAST BT11 8JP Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9062 7732 Principal: Mrs G McClenaghan, BEd, DASE The Holy Child Nursery School is a modern, two unit, Catholic Maintained School situated in the heart of Andersonstown in West Belfast. The school opened in January 1980 and can boast a pleasant, airy, well-maintained building which is fully equipped and situated on a mature, enclosed site. In recent years a number of modern innovative improvements have been made to the building. It provides an attractive, challenging and stimulating enviroment which supports the children’s learning, and serves the needs of the parents. The school provides 52 full-time places. Staff include the principal, Teacher, two full-time Nursery Assistants, and a part-time Special Educational Needs Assistant as required. We also have a Caretaker, a Secretary and a Dining Attendant. Our staff are highly qualified and work to promote learning through well planned activities. We endeavour to monitor the children’s progress carefully in order to meet their differing needs and help them to realise their full potential. We work together closely as a team and every member is valued and respected. The aim of our school is to provide a secure, happy and caring environment where all parties work together for the benefit of all the children. Within this environment the school provides a broad and balanced curriculum based on the guidelines provided by the Department of Education. The programme is designed to assist the all-round development of each child, promoting independence, and ensuring equal opportunities for all. Parents are kept well informed of their children’s progress and development. They are encouraged to participate in the life of the school, given opportunities to meet with appropriate professionals, and enhance their own skills and development. We forge close links with the local community and external agencies to provide support and information to assist both staff and parents enhance the provision for the children. The school is supported by a Board of Governors who show a dedication and commitment to the well being of the children and staff, and the future development of the school. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors have determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Priority must be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 59 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of more pupils satisfying the last criterion which can be applied in the order of priority set down above, then selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following sub criteria: 1 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) live in St Agnes’ Parish 2 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is/are currently a permanent employee in the school or a member of the Board of Governors. 3 Children who have listed Holy Child Nursery School as their first choice. 4 Children who have special needs documented by statutory body – educational Psychologist, Senior Medical Officer, Speech and Language Therapy Service. 5 Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances, considered in the following order: a) a child who has one or both parents deceased b) a child whose parent has a serious long-term illness - medical evidence required c) children who are twins (or other multiple birth) 6 Children with brothers/sisters/half brothers/half sisters presently enrolled in Holy Child Primary School. (Indicate name and present class) In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining for the last sub-criteria which can be applied then selection will be on the basis of a randomized selection of letters of the alphabet, as set out below, first by Surname and then by Christian/Forename in the order listed on the Birth Certificate. F O N R T K U Z G M P I X Q Mc Y L A E W D H C V B Mac S J In the event of 2 or more children having the same Surname and Christian/Forename a computerized ‘random selection tie-breaker’ will be applied. 3 Other children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. If places are available they will be allocated on the basis of chronological age ie oldest first. In the event of 2 or more children having the same date of birth then preference will be given to those who have named Holy Child Nursery School as their first choice on their application form. If there are 2 or more children who fit this criterion then selection will be on the basis of randomized selection of letter of the alphabet as set out above, first by surname and then by christian/forename in the order listed on the birth certificate. The Admissions Criteria will be applied by a Nursery Admissions Sub-Committee consisting of the Principal and three Governors subject to the final approval of the Board of Governors. The same criteria will be used for applications after 30 May 2014. 60 Waiting List If you wish your child’s name to be held on a waiting list for Holy Child Nursery School please indicate this on your application form. New applicants who wish to join the waiting list must inform the school in writing. The above criteria and sub criteria will be applied to those on the waiting list and will be used for any new applications up to 30 June 2015. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it eg proof of socially disadvantaged circumstances*, proof of residency in parish, evidence to support special educational needs/special circumstances and if appropriate the name/class of child attending Holy Child Primary School etc. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 61 HOLY CHILD PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT SOUTH GREEN BELFAST BT11 8JF Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9061 4823 Principal: Mr M Short Teacher in charge of Nursery Unit: Mrs M Kielty Holy Child Primary School Nursery Unit opened in October 2000. It is a self-contained unit with its own full facilities within the Primary School complex providing 26 full-time nursery places. The Nursery Unit, which is well equipped and resourced, is staffed by a qualified teacher and a trained nursery assistant and provides a warm, caring, stimulating environment aimed at encouraging each child to reach his/her full potential. At Holy Child we recognise the essential role parents have to play in their children’s education and they are encouraged to become fully involved in the life and work of the school. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available, the following admissions criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 (whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are not from socially disadvantaged circumstances*). In the event of over-subscription, within any of the above criteria the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down below: a) Pupils whose parents live in St Agnes’ Parish. b) Children who have listed Holy Child Nursery Unit as their first choice. c) Pupils who have a brother/half brother, sister/half sister currently enrolled in Holy Child Primary School/Nursery Unit. (Indicate name and year group) d) Eldest/Only child in the family. This is subject to satisfying verification as set out below:62 The verifying letter must state that the child is the eldest and that the child and family are known to the verifier. It must be written on headed notepaper and signed by one of the following who is not a member of the applicant’s family; (a) a medical practitioner (b) a solicitor (c) a clergyman or equivalent (d) a school principal e) Pupils whose parent/guardian will be permanent members of the staff in the school year 2014/2015. f) Pupils whose parent/guardian, brother/half-brother, sister/half-sister are former pupils of Holy Child Primary School/Unit. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) g) Pupils who have had a grandparent who was a past pupil of Holy Child Primary School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) h) In the event of a tie-break situation, applicants will be selected for admission on the basis of the initial letter of surname as entered on the birth certificate or court order in the order set out below, as determined by a random computer generated selection (Excel). This will be overseen by a member of the Board of Governors and an internal supervisor. Z I L W H M F J C B O P Mc Q E A K T V S Y R X D G Mac U N In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter, the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames, the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames, as entered on the birth certificate or court order will be used. In the event of vacancies remaining after criteria 1-2 and sub criteria (a)-(h) have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1July 2012. In the event of there being more applicants than places then selection will be on the basis of rank order of age, oldest first. For those born on the same day the award of places will be decided through sub criteria (a)(h). Please note that: staff may request that a child is collected early if in their opinion he/she is not ready for a full session in the Nursery. Proof of residency will be required at the time of application. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Holy Child Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. 63 The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 64 HOLY CROSS NURSERY SCHOOL BUTLER WALK ARDOYNE BT14 7NZ Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9074 5672 Principal: Mrs Nuala Gallagher B Ed DASE Holy Cross Nursery School is a catholic nursery school built in 1994 to serve the pre-school children of Holy Cross Parish. It is a well resourced modern nursery school set in it’s own grounds with an attractive outdoor play area. The school is staffed by 2 qualified teachers with special training in early years education, 2 full-time and 2 part-time nursery assistants all of whom have specialised qualifications to work with young children. In Holy Cross Nursery School we work in partnership with parents to create a safe, happy, inclusive and respectful learning environment, where every child is encouraged to develop to their full and unique potential as active children of God. We offer children a broad, balanced and differentiated curriculum, which takes account of each child’s individual needs, character, talents and abilities. We welcome parental participation in the nursery school and offer advice and support to parents in their role as primary educator of their child. We have close links with Holy Cross Girls’ and Holy Cross Boys’ Primary Schools and we actively participate in the community life of our parish. We operate a long standing and very successful schools community relations programme for children and parents with our buddies in Edenderry Nursery School each year. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the allocated time for admissions. In the event of the school being over-subscribed the school’s admissions criteria have been drawn up by the governors in accordance with D.E. regulations. The Admissions Criteria will be applied by the Admissions Sub-committee and subject to the approval of the Board of Governors. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. All criteria will apply as on the closing date on the application form. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 65 Sub-Criteria In the event of over-subscription within any of the above criteria, sub-criteria will be applied as follows: a b c d e Children who live with their parent/guardian in Holy Cross Parish. Children who have listed Holy Cross Nursery as their first preference. Children with documented special educational need or documented referral from health and social services. Children whose brothers/sisters have previously attended the nursery school. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) Children who have special circumstances considered in the following order: children who are twins or multiple births children whose parent/guardian is permanently employed in the school For children in their penultimate pre-school year the following criteria will be applied. 3 Children in their penultimate pre-school year whose parents(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 4 Children in their penultimate pre-school year. In the event of over-subscription within any sub-criteria final selection will be based on the shortest walking distance from the nursery school to the child’s home as measured by Google maps. D.E. Circular 2010/14 paragraph 35 states that children in their penultimate pre-school year are not automatically entitled to a second year’s pre-school education and must make a new application for a further year’s pre-school education. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Holy Cross Nursery School, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 66 HOLY FAMILY NURSERY SCHOOL Maintained Nursery School 27 BALTIC AVENUE BELFAST BT15 2HR Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9035 1552 Principal: Mrs A Davidson Holy Family Nursery School was opened in September 1977 and for the first time catholic nursery education was made available in the parish. It is a purpose built double-unit nursery sited in a secluded area adjacent to the Antrim Road. Its ideal location offers the children safe and tranquil surroundings. The aim of our nursery is to develop each individual child spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually through play. In Holy Family Nursery we lay special emphasis on the needs of each individual child, alongside this we make provision for children requiring extra care and attention due to specific learning difficulties. In order to achieve this we provide the children with a wide range of play experiences. The staff consists of a dedicated and committed team of professionals who realise and value the importance of play in the child’s development. They observe, monitor and record the progress of the children as they develop throughout the year. The policy of this school is to involve the parents/guardians in the education of their children. For the majority of children nursery school is the first introduction to the ‘outside’ world and parents/guardians are encouraged to cooperate fully with the staff in the nursery to help bridge the gap between home and school. The school is an integral part of the community and through the curriculum we endeavour to sow the seeds of the social, educational and Catholic ethos of the community. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 67 Sub-Criteria In the event of over-subscription any one of the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down. 1 Children who have listed Holy Family Nursery School as their first preference. 2 Children whose grandparent(s)/parent(s)/aunt(s) are employed in the school. 3 Children who live with their parent(s)/guardian(s) in Holy Family Parish 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who reside in the Parish of Holy Family and who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having a significant special educational needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors. 5 Children with brother(s)/sister(s)/half brother(s)/half sister(s) who have attended Holy Family Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) 6 Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances in the following order: a Children currently on the “At Risk’ register maintained by Social Services. b A child who has one or both parents deceased. c A child whose parent(s) have a serious long-term illness (medical evidence required). d Children who are twins or multiple births. Proof of residency will be required at the time of application. Penultimate Pre-School Year If places are available, priority will be given to children on the basis of age ie eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Holy Family Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 68 HOLY ROSARY NURSERY SCHOOL SUNNYSIDE CRESCENT BELFAST BT7 3DB Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9049 1314 Principal: Mrs C McGrenaghan B Ed ACNE Teacher: Mrs S Morrison B.Ed (Hons) E-mail: [email protected] School Hours: 9.00am – 1.30pm Holy Rosary Nursery School is a Catholic Maintained Nursery School which opened in September 1980 to serve the needs of the children of Holy Rosary Parish. The Nursery School is situated just off the Ormeau Road. It is easily accessible from Stranmillis Road, Malone Road and Saintfield Road and on the main bus route from Carryduff and Four Winds. It is a feeder school to Holy Rosary, St Michael’s, St Bride’s, St Bernard’s, St Ita’s and Forge Integrated Primary School. The school has undergone major refurbishment to bring it in line with the new requirements of the Northern Ireland Disability Order. It is strongly committed to including children with special educational needs and ensures equality of access for all parents and children. It is a fully inclusive school which values cultural diversity and welcomes children from all ethnic backgrounds. The staff is experienced in addressing the needs of children who have English as an additional language and has undergone specialised training in this area. The ethos of Holy Rosary Nursery School is to ensure that all children have access to a wide and varied curriculum which is carefully planned by staff to meet the needs of each individual child. The school has an extensive curriculum which offers a wide range of play experiences. It draws on the support of local professionals to enhance these experiences and give children first hand knowledge of the real world. Children are provided with a safe, stimulating and attractive outdoor learning environment which creates opportunities for physical, imaginative and sensory play and encourages them to explore and investigate their environment. The school is an integral part of the community and has forged strong links with local schools and colleges. Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in the life of the school and staff work in partnership with parents in order to provide the best possible pre-school experience for their children. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available, the following admissions criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. 69 *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-Criteria Should the school be oversubscribed in any of the above criteria the following subcriteria will be applied: a Children who have listed Holy Rosary Nursery School as their first preference. b Children whose grandparent(s)/parent(s)/aunt(s) are employed in the school or a current member of the Board of Governors. c Children whose siblings, half-brother/sister currently or previously attended Holy Rosary Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) d Children who live with their parent/guardian in Holy Rosary Parish. e Children who live with their parent/guardian in St Anthony’s Parish. f Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who reside in the Parish of Holy Rosary/St Anthony’s and who are considered by an education and Library Board as having significant special educational needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors. g Distance from the school as measured by the shortest driving distance from the front door of the school to the front door of the child’s home by public thoroughfare. In the event of two or more children’s permanent residence being measured equal distance for the final place, children will be selected by age with the oldest being selected first. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied the following criterion will be applied for other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 will be considered on the basis of rank order of age – oldest first. Where applications are made on the basis of socially disadvantaged circumstaces*, the relevant section MUST be completed and stamped by the Social Security Agency. 70 Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Holy Rosary Nursery School Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 71 HOPE NURSERY SCHOOL 104 HOPEWELL CRESCENT BELFAST BT13 1DN Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone/Fax No: 028 9032 3185 E mail: [email protected] Principal: Mrs Sandra Andrew BEd Hons. Chairman of Board of Governors: Mrs E Sedgwick Hope Nursery School, which opened in 1976, is a modern double unit controlled school conveniently situated just off both the Crumlin and Shankill Roads. The school is bright, well maintained and equipped, superbly resourced and the general atmosphere is extremely happy and relaxed to allow maximum learning opportunities for the children in our care. The friendly staff, who are all qualified early years specialists, are highly motivated and committed to ensuring that each child reaches their full potential. Our curriculum is wide-ranging and carefully planned to meet the individual needs of each child. Our work with the children will support and extend their development in the six key areas of learning. The children’s experience is extended and enhanced by regular visits by P.E and musical specialists. We also offer a range of educational visits to various locations. The nursery school encourages the involvement of parents in the work of the school through school trips, classroom based activities, the parent and toddler group and a range of parent classes. Currently the school offers a breakfast club from 8.30- 8.45 am. Any prospective parent who would like to visit the school will be made more than welcome. Please contact the Principal after 1.30 pm to arrange a suitable time. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The Board of Governors of Hope Nursery School will apply the following criteria in order of priority. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 72 Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription on any of the above criteria the Governors will employ the following sub-criteria in the order set down: a Children who have listed Hope Nursery School as their first preference. b Children or Grandchildren of a member of staff or school Governor. c Siblings who are attending/have attended the Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining for the last sub criterion which can be applied, then selection will be on the basis of alphabetical order of name (surname first) as the name appears on the birth certificate. (as used in the telephone directory) Penultimate Pre-school Year 3 Children born between 2 July and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, selection will be made on alphabetical order of name (surname first) as the name appears on the birth certificate. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Hope Nursery School, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. 73 KNOCKNAGONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT KNOCKNAGONEY ROAD BELFAST BT4 2NR Controlled Co-Ed Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9076 8496 www.knocknagoney.co.uk Principal: Mrs A Burton B.Ed(Hons) PQH Nursery Teacher: Mrs N Campbell BA(Hons) PGCE (Early Years) The Nursery unit is an integral part of Knocknagoney Primary School; there are 26 children on a full-time basis (9.00-1.30). While we have strong links with the main school, particularly the P1 class, the Nursery is fully self-contained. Dinners, which are taken in the Nursery unit, are provided from the primary school’s own meals kitchen. The Nursery teacher has qualifications and experience in early years learning and is ably assisted by enthusiastic and committed classroom assistants. There is a bright, well equipped play room with a quiet room for reading; children’s toilet area, spacious cloakroom, role play area and kitchen. The modern, well equipped Nursery has been extended to include an indoor safety-surfaced area used for large equipment and vigorous play on a daily basis. In addition we have an enclosed outdoor area also with safety surfacing where children benefit from the range of play equipment and can enhance their physical development, explore their environment and develop their imagination. The Nursery aims to create a secure, stimulating environment in which children can learn together and progress with confidence. Children are valued as individuals and given equal opportunities to grow emotionally, socially, intellectually and physically. A warm welcome is extended to parents as partners in the education of their children, and their involvement and co-operation is encouraged. Opportunities exist both formally and on an informal basis throughout the year to discuss children’s progress with Nursery staff and a monthly newsletter which along with the school website provides parents with further useful information regarding the Nursery programme. Prior to admission, parents will be invited to an informative meeting in early June; the children will likewise be invited to meet staff and other children in a short, introductory play session. The staff carry out home visits to talk informally with the parents and child and help to ease the settling in process. During the year we enjoy having many visitors such as Streamvale Farm and Belfast Zoo and the children also have the opportunity of going on outings which are carefully planned and supervised. An open day is provided for parents to see the Nursery. Prospective parents are invited to attend an Open Afternoon/Evening which will be held on Thursday 28 November 2013, 2-4pm and 5-7pm. 74 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s Nursery Unit admissions criteria and has delegated to the principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the Unit. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Place will be given to eldest first. Sub-criteria will then be applied in the event of two or more children having the same date of birth. In the event of the Unit being over-subscribed in any criteria above, the Governors will select children for admission using the sub-criteria set out below. The criteria will be applied in the order in which they are set down. Sub-criteria 1 Children whose parents or guardians have listed Knocknagoney as their first preference on the application form. 2 Children who have brothers/sisters/half-brothers/half-sisters or other children living permanenetly at the same address currently attending Knocknagoney Primary School (P1 - P7) or who will be enrolled in the Primary School in September 2014. (Indicate name and year group) 3 Children whose parent/guardian, brother/sister, half brother/sister are past pupils of Knocknagoney Primary School. (Indicate name of brother/sister maiden name of mother, father and date of attendance) 4 Children who have a parent/guardian employed by Knocknagoney Primary and Nursery Unit. (excluding staff employed by School Meals Service) 5 Children who live nearest to the school. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement from the front door of the child’s home to the entrance to the school. Measurement will be generated electronically using the Ordnance Survey website. In the event of two or more children’s permanent residence being measured equal distance for the final place, children will be selected by age with the oldest being selected first. NB Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the allocated time for admission. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account the information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Knocknagoney Nursery School Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 75 LOWWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT SHERINGHURST PARK BELFAST BT15 4BL Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9037 0094 Principal: Mr David Patterson MEd BSc(Hons) PGCE Lowwood Nursery is an integral part of Lowwood Primary School and in May 2004 moved into a brand new ‘state of the art’ building occupying its original site overlooking Belfast Lough. Our attractive, modern school environment allows us to provide a range of learning experiences for children better equipping them to gain life skills for 21 st century living. Central to the philosophy of the school as a whole, and the Nursery Unit in particular, is a commitment to the all-round development of the child. Children ‘work’ in a caring and supportive environment where they will be stimulated, encouraged and praised. At Lowwood we aim to raise the self-esteem of all children, encouraging them to mix well with their peers, so acquiring a range of social skills and confidences. The nursery curriculum has been carefully planned, and is regularly reviewed, to ensure that the children are given a wide range of stimulating activities; there are opportunities for children to engage in imaginative play and to play with construction toys, table-top toys, jigsaws, sand and water etc, as well as participating in activities such as painting, crafts, music and story telling. Physical skills are developed through the children using a wide variety of indoor and outdoor equipment. Activities and resources are frequently changed and rotated ensuring that the learning experiences remain fresh, interesting and challenging. A well stocked library is available to encourage children to develop a love for books at an early age. Parents are encouraged to borrow books to read with their children. At Lowwood we recognise the essential role parents have to play in a child’s education. Parents are kept regularly informed of monthly themes and activities, and at the end of each year are invited to the school to discuss their child’s progress. We encourage every parent to become fully involved in the life and work of the school. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 76 In the event of over-subscription, within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied: 1 Pupils who have a sibling enrolled in Lowwood Primary School in the year starting Nursery. 2 Children of permanent staff in the school. 3 Pupils who have a sibling who earlier attended Lowwood Primary School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 4 Children who have a parent/guardian who attended Lowwood Primary School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 5 Preference will be given to applicants who have listed Lowwood Nursery as their first preference. 6 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) homes are closest to the Nursery School as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the Nursery Unit. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3 final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, sub-criterion 3 will apply for final selection. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Lowwood Nursery School Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 77 MATT TALBOT NURSERY SCHOOL 1A NEW BARNSLEY GREEN BELFAST BT12 7HS Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9032 1997 Email: [email protected] Web: www.matttalbot.weebly.com Principal: Rosemary Ward BSSc (Hons), PhD, P.G.C.E Matt Talbot Nursery School is a bright modern two unit nursery school situated within the Parish of Corpus Christi. This Catholic Maintained school opened in 1991 and offers 52 full time nursery places. The school is permanently staffed by 2 qualified teachers and 4 nursery assistants. It is a pleasant, well maintained building which has a comprehensive range of suitable resources and equipment. Matt Talbot Nursery School aims to create an environment in which children feel secure and happy, in an atmosphere of warmth, love and understanding. We provide a broad and balanced curriculum, and each child is given the opportunity to grow and develop to his/her fullest potential not only physically and intellectually, but in confidence, self-esteem, respect for others, self-discipline and awareness of the environment. Matt Talbot Nursery School enriches and enhances our children’s learning experiences. On 28 May 2013 the Education and Training Inspectorate awarded the school a grade of outstanding in each of the 3 areas inspected which were: 1. The Quality of the Children’s Achievements 2. The Quality of the Provision for Learning 3. The Quality of Leadership and Management The school offers an ‘Early Bird’ Club from 8.30am – 9.00am each day. The full time teaching session is from 9.00am – 1.30pm. Children from the nursery have successfully won the UK Barnardo’s ‘A Child’s View’ Calendar Competition in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. The December 2010 image was used as an eChristmas card by KPMG worldwide accountancy firm in 2011 and the December 2012 image was selected for a Christmas card design to be sold in packs for Christmas 2013 across the UK. The school has won various other awards and competitions including ‘Best Kept Schools’, ‘Belfast City Council Brighter Belfast Environmental Awards’ and ‘West Belfast Partnership Awards’. Parents are welcome in the nursery at all times. We value their support and cooperation not only with material needs but acting as equal partners with staff in the development of the children. Our parent coordinator has successfully assisted parents in completing the Active Belfast Programme and with graduating from the ‘Incredible Years Programme for Parents’ and Essential Skills English and Maths Programmes. 78 Parents who are considering making an application to the school are welcome to visit. Arrangements for such a visit can be made by contacting the Principal at the above address/telephone number/email address – preferably before 9.00am or after 2.00pm each day. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has determined that in the event of more applicants than places available, the following Admissions Criteria will be applied in the order set down to select children for the available places. The sub-criteria will be applied in the event of oversubscription in any of the statutory criteria. The Board of Governors delegates to the Principal and a Selection Committee the responsibility of applying the criteria. Such selection is then finally approved the Board of Governors. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside within the Parish of Corpus Christi. 2. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who reside within the Parish of Corpus Christi. 4. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 5. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 from the Parish of Corpus Christi who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special educational needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors. Sub Criteria for pre-school children: In the event of more pupils satisfying the last criterion which can be applied in the order of priority set down above, then selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following sub-criteria: 1.2 Any child returning for a second year in Matt Talbot Nursery School. 2.2 Priority given to pupils who put Matt Talbot Nursery School as their first preference. 3.2 Child or grandchild of a member of staff or school governor. 79 4.2 5.2 6.2 Children who have brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) currently attending Matt Talbot Nursery School. (Name, Year Group and Year of Attendance). This will be verified by Matt Talbot Nursery School. Children who are currently on the ‘at risk’ register maintained by Social Services. This information must be attached to the nursery application form. Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances will be considered in the following order: a) b) c) 7.2 A child who has one or both parents deceased. A child whose parent has a serious long-term illness – medical evidence required. Children who are twins ( or other multiple birth). Children with brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) who have previously attended Matt Talbot Nursery School. (Name, Year Group and Year of Attendance). This will be verified by Matt Talbot Nursery School. If over-subscribed in any of the above sub-criteria taken in order – final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname in order set down below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. The Order was determined by a randomised selection of letters of the alphabet made on 10 September 2013. Y, J, W, E, F, H, Q, R, D, Mac, X, T, M, G, P, Mc, A, B, O, Z, C, N, U, S, L, K, I, V In the event of surnames with the same initial letter the subsequent letter of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the forename as register on the birth certificate will be used. Sub criteria for penultimate pre-school children: If places are still available after all pre-school children are placed i.e. at end of stage 2 – remaining places will be allocated to children in the penultimate pre-school year – i.e. children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 in accordance with: 1.3 2.3 Age of child – eldest first Children whose parents are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Matt Talbot Nursery School, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. 80 Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. IMPORTANT NOTICE When considering which children should be selected for admission – the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to application form. Parents should ensure that all information relating to their child is included on the form and relates only to the admissions criteria – i.e. Name of siblings attending/previously attended the Nursery School Year of attendance Residency in Parish of Corpus Christi Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 81 McARTHUR NURSERY SCHOOL SUSAN STREET BELFAST BT5 4FE Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9045 1965 Website: www.mcarthurnursery.co.uk Principal: Mrs E Daly B. Ed McArthur Nursery School is the second oldest Nursery School in Northern Ireland having been established in 1936 by the members of the McArthur Hall Old Girls’ Association of Methodist College, Belfast. Over the years it occupied various sites in the Newtownards Road area before moving in January 1990 to a refurbished and extended wing of Beechfield Primary School. The school staff consists of the Principal, an Assistant Teacher, four Nursery Assistants, a part-time Caretaker, Secretary and Dining Attendant. The school aims to provide a relaxed, caring environment where the children feel happy and secure and a curriculum which will promote intellectual, social, emotional, physical, aesthetic and moral development. The school has two separate playrooms, a large communal cloakroom area which can also be used for singing, music and movement, building, art and baking activities, a Parents’ Room and a very pleasant, south-facing outdoor area part of which is ‘all-weather’ in that it is covered and shuttered. We believe that these facilities along with our excellent resources and well qualified staff provide a very suitable environment for pre-school children. All places are offered on a full-time basis from 9.00 am to 13.30 pm. Close co-operation between home and school is encouraged at all times. Parents will be invited to the school to meet the staff and learn more about nursery education in the summer term. The children will also be invited to come along with their parents for an afternoon visit to meet the staff and try out some of the toys and activities. Toileting Policy Children need to be independent in toileting routines. If a child has an accident, a member of staff will assist them in changing themselves. If a child soils themselves we will telephone the parent. We do not have the facilities or level of staffing needed to provide intimate care. In the event we are unable to contact the parent we will provide the best care we can for the child. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admissions criteria and has delegated to the Principal its function and responsibilities in the relation of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the school. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The criteria will be applied in the order in which they are set down. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 82 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription, within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criterion will be applied: A Children whose parents have chosen McArthur Nursery as first preference on the application form. B Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) homes are closest to the Nursery as measured by Google Maps walking distance from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the Nursery School. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied the following criterion will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3, final selection will be based on eldest first. For those children born on the same day sub-criterion B will apply for final selection. NOTE These admission arrangements will apply for the 2014/2015 school year but may be revised in subsequent years at the discretion of the Board of Governors. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to McArthur Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 83 NAÍSCOIL AN tSLÉIBHE DHUIBH 15A Ballymurphy Road BELFAST BT12 7JL Grant Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 90237146 E-mail: pmisté[email protected] Principal: Pilib Mistéil Naíscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh is an Irish Medium Nursery Unit of Bunscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh. It provides full time places to 26 children and a range of after-school activities through the medium of Irish. Attendance at Naíscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh fulfills the requirements of prerequisite pre-school immersion education which assists entry into Bunscoil and tSléibhe Dhuibh. Naíscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh provides a broad and balanced pre-school curriculum which develops the child’s physical, emotional, linguistic and creative talents. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied if places are still available after all children have been placed in the Nursery year, the remaining places will be allocated to children in the pre-nursery year according to the subcriteria listed. 1 Childern who attend year 1 of Naíscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh’s immersion program. 2 Children who have or have had a brother or sister, half-brother or half-sister from the same household attending Bunscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh. (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) 3 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is/are employed in Naíscoil or Bunscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh. 4 Children from an Irish Language background. 5 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) have listed Naíscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh as their first preference. 84 In the event of continued oversubscription, the following order will be given to: 1 The date of the expression of interest form was registered. 2 The proximity of the family home (proof of residency will be required) to the Naíscoil. 3 Children who have attended other year 1 immersion settings. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Naíscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. 85 NAÍSCOIL BHEANN MHADAGÁIN/BUNSCOIL BHEANN MHADAGÁIN Wyndham Drive BELFAST BT14 6HP Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9074 7184 Principal: Máire Uí Éigeartaigh Naíscoil Co-ordinator: Seosaimhín Ní Ghribín The Naíscoil will be open from 9.00am – 1.30pm. At Naíscoil Bheann Mhadagáin our aim is to meet the needs of each individual child in a stimulating, caring and nurturing environment. Naíscoil Curriculum Naíscoil Bheann Mhadagáin is an Irish language Nursery School in North Belfast. We aim to provide in consultation with Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin; a high standard of physical and emotional care; partnership with parents in their children’s early educational development; a wide range of active play-based learning experiences; Our planned curriculum offers the opportunity for the child to develop their social emotional, cognitive skills through the various topics and themes eg. the seasons, myself, family etc. The child develops an understanding of their environment and themselves as individuals. We believe in providing the child with as many opportunities as possible to enhance their creativity through free play. Special Needs Policy Children with special needs like all other children are admitted to the nursery after consultation between parents and the Naíscoil teacher. The Naíscoil works closely with the additional needs co-ordinator in the Bunscoil to access all available services for the children in our setting. Our system of observation and record keeping, which operates in conjunction with parents, enables us to monitor children’s needs and progress on an individual basis. We work in liaison with staff outside the group, including speech therapists, health visitors, psychologists, social workers and pediatricians to meet children’s specific needs. Our staff attend training on a wide range of topics covering all areas of the Early Years curriculum and including ‘special needs and inclusion’ and emotional well-being. Naíscoil Staff Our Naíscoil is staffed by a fully qualified teacher with a wealth of experience in the Foundation stage and nursery assistants who are suitably qualified. 86 Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription in any of the above criteria the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Priority will be given to those children whose parents choose Naíscoil Bheann Mhadagáin as their first preference. b Children whom the Board of Governors deem to have completed satisfactory attendance in the Irish Medium play group at Bheann Mhadagáin or at Naíscoil Ard Eoin and who have or have had a brother/sister or half-brother/half-sister from within the same household attending Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin. (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) c Children who have a parent employed in the school and whom the Board of Governors deem to have completed satisfactory attendance in an Irish Medium preschool or playgroup. d Children from an Irish language background. e Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Náiscoil Bheann Mhadagáin that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. 87 NAÍSCOIL BHREANDÁIN/BUNSCOIL PHOBAL FEIRSTE 11 PÁIRC ROSGOILL BÉAL FEIRSTE BT11 9QS Grant Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Guthan/Phone: 028 9062 0410/ 028 9030 1598 [email protected] www.bunscoilphobalfeirste.com Comhordaitheoir Naíscoil/Nursery co-ordinator: Caitlín Nic an tSionnaigh Príomhoide/Principal: Deirdre Nic Suibhne Is aonad nua-aimseartha í Naíscoil Bhreandáin atá lonnaithe i nGaeltacht Bhóthar Seoighe agus a chuireann 52 áit lán-aimseartha ar fáil. Is i gcomhar a chéile a oibríonn na múinteoirí Caitlín Nic an tSionnaigh agus Dara Mac Eachaidh leis na cúntóirí díograiseacha leis an churaclam naíscoile a chur ar fáil do pháistí trí mheán na Gaeilge. Tá suíomh foghlama sona, suaimhneach ar fáil do gach páiste sa naíscoil. Aithnímid cumas gach páiste agus tagann bláth ar gach duine faoinár gcúram. Aithnímid gur páirtnéirí tábhachtacha iad tuismitheoirí in oideachas a bpáistí agus molaimid agus cuirimid fáilte roimh ionchur s’acu i saol na naíscoile. Cuirimid club bricfeasta ar fáil ón 8:10rn go 9:00rn agus cumann iarscoile ón 1:30in go 2:00in. Tá córás aistrithe forbartha go maith againn idir baile agus naíscoil agus ansin idir naíscoil agus an scoil. Tá sé le tuiscint go n0aistreoidh na páistí ó Naíscoil Bhreandáin go Bunscoil Phobal Feirste. Sa chigireacht is déanaí de chuid ETI i Mí Dheireadh Fómhair 2012 aithníodh Naíscoil Bhreandáin/Bunscoil Phobal Feirste mar ‘Outstanding’. Tá cuireadh ar thuismitheoirí freastal ar Oíche Oscailte ar an Chéadaoin 4 Nollaig 2013 ar 6:00in. Naíscoil Bhreandáin is a modern double unit situated in the Shaw’s Road Gaeltacht and offers 52 places on a full-time basis. A team of dedicated assistants support the experienced teachers Caitlín Nic an tSionnaigh and Dara Mac Eachaidh in providing the nursery curriculum through the medium of Irish. It is our goal that every child who attends Naíscoil Bhreandáin will feel safe, secure and happy in our caring environment. We endeavour to meet the needs of each individual child in our care and will allow them to grow and develop at their own pace. The curriculum in Naíscoil Bhreandáin is underpinned by careful planning to promote language learning through play and practical activities in an enjoyable and stimulating environment. Much attention is given to developing the intellectual, social, emotional, aesthetic and moral development of the child. Irish is not the home language of most of the children who attend Naíscoil Bhreandáin but in this model of immersion education children acquire the necessary language skills to enable them to continue and access the primary curriculum through Irish. We recognise parents are valuable partners in their children’s education and encourage and welcome their involvement in the work of the nursery. We offer a breakfast club from 8:10-9:00 and an after schools club from 1:30-2:00pm. We have also developed a comprehensive transition programme which allows children to experience a smooth transition from home to nursery and in turn from nursery to school. It is our understanding that children who attend Naíscoil Bhreandáin will transfer to Bunscoil Phobal Feirste. 88 In our recent ETI Inspection in October 2012 Naíscoil Bhreandáin/Bunscoil Phobal Feirste was identified as ‘Outstanding’. Prospective parents are invited to an Open Night on Wednesday 4 December at 6:00pm ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria 1 Children whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have listed Naíscoil Bhreandáin as their first preference. 2 Children whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) is a member of the teaching/ancillary staff of Naíscoil Bhreandáin/Bunscoil Phobal Feirste. 3 Children whose siblings attend Bunscoil Phobal Feirste. (Indicate name and year group) 4 Children whose parents use Irish as a home language. 5 Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age-eldest first. If places are available after all children in their pre-school year are placed, remaining places will be allocated to children in their penultimate pre-school year according to the sub-criteria listed. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Náiscoil Bhreandáin that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. 89 NETTLEFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT RADNOR STREET BELFAST BT6 8BG Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9045 8237 Fax No: 028 9073 8499 Principal: Mrs C Forth M.Ed. Nettlefield Nursery Unit is situated in the area of East Belfast bounded by the Woodstock Road, Cherryville Street and My Lady’s Road, although applications are welcomed from children residing outside this immediate area. The Nursery operates two full-time sessions from 8.55am to 1.30pm. The Nursery Unit is housed in a modern building comprising two large, inter-connecting playrooms and a shared indoor play area used for music, movement, physical play and large construction equipment. We are particularly proud of our extensive, secure landscaped outdoor facilities which include a grass and planting area, bike track, modern static climbing equipment with full safety surfacing, a sand house, fantasy play house and a partially covered area for physical play on wet days. We are also fortunate to have full use of the adjoining primary school facilities. The policy of the Nursery is to work in close partnership with parents and to provide a happy, relaxed environment where children feel secure. The curriculum is carefully planned by an experienced, enthusiastic and committed staff who gently support and extend the pupils through progressive play and learning to ensure that they reach their full potential. The Nursery complements the curriculum through organised trips and welcoming relevant visitors and experts to the Unit. Prospective parents are encouraged to contact the Nursery Unit for further information or details of our Open Days. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Intake criteria for nursery children are determined by the Department of Education as set down in (1-8) below: 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. If the admissions number is exceeded within any single criterion then the Governors have determined that the following further criteria shall apply in the order stated: 90 a Pupils who will have a sibling enrolled in Nettlefield Primary School in the year of starting nursery. b Pupils who have a sibling who earlier transferred to an off-site educational unit OR postprimary school from Nettlefield Primary School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) c Children who have a parent/guardian who attended Nettlefield Primary School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) d Those applicants who have stated Nettlefield Nursery as their first preference. e Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) homes are closest to Nettlefield Primary School as measured by a straight line on the current Ordnance Survey Greater Belfast Street Map (closest boundaries between respective properties). In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3 final selection will be based on eldest first. For those children born on the same day, sub-criteria(a) to (e) will apply for final selection. Notes: a) A birth certificate or current valid passport is required to confirm date of birth. b) The term sibling includes children residing at the same address and under the guardianship of the same adult. c) A childminder’s address will not be considered. The above sub-criteria are subject to annual review by the Board of Governors. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Nettlefield Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 91 NEW LODGE NURSERY SCHOOL DUNCAIRN PARADE BELFAST BT15 2EL Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No:52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9074 3073 Principal: Fionnuala O’Reilly B.A.(Hons), M.Sc., P.G.C.E. Mission Statement During the child’s journey in New Lodge Nursery School he/she will enjoy experiences and develop relationships which will promote his/her social and educational development to the full and foster in him/her positive attitudes to later life and learning. Established in 1968, New Lodge Nursery School enjoys a lengthy tradition of educational service in North Belfast. The nursery is very well equipped with a newly acquired range of modern equipment and resources facilitating a wide variety of learning experiences. Sound home/school links and teaching methods in New Lodge Nursery School aim to promote in the child both educational development and positive attitudes to learning. Curriculum, which is aligned to CCEA pre-school educational guidance, is offered on a thematic basis. In addition to frequent educational trips and visitors to the school a weekly lending library extends literature to pupils’ homes. We offer a breakfast and an afterschools facility for working parents. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria Should the school be over-subscribed in any of the criteria above the following sub-criteria will be applied: a The listing of New Lodge Nursery as a first preference choice for pre-school education. b Children of a member of staff. 92 c Children whose parent(s) residence is the shortest distance from the school, as determined by measurement on Google Maps. d Tradition of sibling attendance at the school. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) e Documented special circumstances/needs on the basis of consideration by the board of evidence available from assessments by educational psychologists, designated medical officers and other such assessment as is deemed appropriate. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 will be admitted according to the following sub-criteria: 1 The listing of New Lodge Nursery as a first preference choice for pre-school education. 2 Age of the child with the oldest child considered first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to New Lodge Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 93 OLDPARK NURSERY SCHOOL SYLVAN STREET BELFAST BT14 6GN Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9074 5133 Principal: Mrs A P Reid B.Ed, M.Ed, PQH(NI) School Location Oldpark Nursery School was opened in 1974 as a two unit nursery to provide nursery education for children in the surrounding area of North Belfast. It is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac accessible from Rosapenna Street/Parade. It is an integral part of the community with landscaped gardens and large outdoor play areas. School Hours The School day begins at 9.00am and ends at 1.30pm. Children are given a healthy snack and hot school dinner during this time. Extra Provision Oldpark Nursery School now also has a Rise and Shine Breakfast Club which starts at 8.30am (Monday – Friday) where the children enjoy a healthy breakfast and educational activities. In the afternoon we have a Little Chicks After Schools Club which starts at 1.30pm and finishes at 2.15pm (Monday – Friday). There is a small charge payable each day for each club. Curriculum Our curriculum offers a wide variety of educational activities that embrace the holistic development of all children. We aim to provide a safe, caring, affirming and stimulating environment where each child is given the opportunity to develop to their full potential. We have established close links with the local primary schools and the community. Throughout the year we arrange Educational outings which consolidate the children’s learning and we have regular programme of visitors eg Monkeynastix, Jump Jiggle & Jive, Jo Jingles and Mr Hullabaloo. We encourage our children to wear full school uniform so that they become more independent and develop a sense of belonging to Oldpark Nursery School. Experienced School Staff 3 qualified teachers one of whom is also the teaching Principal 3 qualified nursery assistants 1 part-time nursery assistants Caretaker, dining attendant and secretary Parents Oldpark Nursery School welcomes parents into the school and invites them to take an active role in their child’s education. We encourage parents to attend our activities and accompany us on various Educational outings. With the support of our parents we want to provide the children with self-confidence, independence and life long social skills for their journey through school. 94 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. If over-subscribed at 1-2 the following sub-criteria will apply:Sub-criteria a Preference will be given to children who have had their penultimate year in Oldpark Nursery School. b Priority may be given to children who have stated Oldpark Nursery School as their first preference. c Children who have had a brother/sister at the school. (Indicate name and date of attendance) d Children whose parents/guardians homes are closest to the nursery as measured by a straight line measurement on the Ordnance Survey Greater Belfast Map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the nursery school. e Children who have parents employed in the school. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criteria will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is/are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 4 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 3-4 final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, sub-criterion d will apply for final selection. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Oldpark Nursery School, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 95 ORANGEFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT CAMERONIAN DRIVE BELFAST BT5 6DF Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9070 4822 Principal: Mr T E Long, BEd Adv Dip Ed Orangefield Primary school has been providing nursery education since 1979. In May 2009 we relocated to superb, new buildings. The Nursery is regarded as an integral part of the main school which provides an environment promoting intellectual, physical, social, emotional and aesthetic development. In an attempt to achieve this, certain underlying principles are borne in mind, namely that: 1 Childhood is not merely a preparation for something yet to come, but is a state in its own right and a stage to be enjoyed. 2 Children have individual differences and needs which must be recognised - a child is not wrong because he is different. 3 There is a natural curiosity and sense of wonder and amazement in each child which deserves to be fostered and accelerated. 4 Children need to be actively involved, as they learn more quickly from real tasks. 5 Young children need encouragement and help to learn how to learn. 6 Parental involvement is vital - the school should support and strengthen all that the child has learnt from his primary educators - his parents. The Nursery Unit will operate on a full-time basis, from 9.00 am to 1.30 pm. The last Department of Education Inspection Report (November 2004) stated, “The quality of the interaction between the staff and the children is excellent and promotes effectively the children’s learning in all areas of the curriculum”. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has drawn up the nursery unit’s admission criteria and has delegated to the principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admissions of pupils to the nursery. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Pre-school Year 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 96 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Penultimate Pre-school Year The Board of Governors has decided in the event of there being more places available after the allocation to children in their pre-school year the remaining will be allocated on the basis of age with priority being given to the eldest. Parents should note that DE Circular 2010/14 paragraph 35 outlines that children admitted to school in their penultimate pre-school year no longer have an automatic entitlement to a second year of pre-school education. Allocation of Places Should the number of children who satisfy the requirement of any criterion exceed the number of places still available, the following sub-criteria will be used. In this manner Governors will be able to distinguish between children down to the last available place. Sub-criteria a Preference will be given to applicants who have listed Orangefield as their first choice. b Children whose parents are employed in the school or Nursery Unit. c Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister or other children living permanently at the same address, currently attending Orangefield Primary School (P1-P7) or who will be enrolled in the Primary School in September (of the same year). d Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister or other children living permanently at the same address who attended Orangefield Primary School (P7) but left in June 2014 to transfer to post primary school. e Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister or other children living permanently at the same address who have attended Orangefield Primary School (P1-P7). f Priority will be given to those children living closest to the school. In applying this criterion, the Governors will award places on the basis of distance from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the school. Distance will be determined by a straight-line measurement using an Ordnance Survey map. g In the event of children living an equal distance from the school preference will be given according to alphabetical order (as used in the telephone directory). Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Orangefield Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 97 OUR LADY’S NURSERY SCHOOL DEANBY GARDENS BELFAST BT14 6NN Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9035 1978 Principal: Mrs D M Walsh BEd DASE PQH SCHOOL LOCATION Our Lady’s Nursery School is a purpose built school, situated on the bottom right hand corner of Deanby Gardens, which is a quiet cul-de-sac in a residential area of North Belfast. The school has been an integral part of local community for over 30 years. SCHOOL HOURS Children attend Monday – Friday from 9.00 am – 1.30 pm (Full-Time). A morning snack and a school meal are provided during this time. CURRICULUM/PROVISION By providing a bright, stimulating environment, which is conducive to learning, where the children are happy, animated, busy and interested, we aim to develop the continual growth of each child on all levels. The school has an extensive curriculum, which offers a wide range of structured activities and events. The children’s experiences are enhanced by a substantial, attractive soft play area, garden and sensory garden. During the school year there is a wide and varied programme of school outings, which further support the curriculum and an after schools club which runs once a week for alternate classes. SCHOOL STAFF 2 qualified teachers one of whom is also the teaching/principal. 3 qualified nursery assistants. 1 family learning worker, caretaker and secretary. Staff engage in professional development courses to further their expertise. PARENTS The school has a healthy tradition of involving parents in the education of their children. Parents are welcome to participate when and where possible in all school activities and are encouraged to participate in events, workshops and courses in our Parents’ Room. Interested parents should contact the school between the hours of 2.00 pm and 3.30 pm for further information. 98 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria If the school is over-subscribed at any of the stages 1 – 2 above, the Board of Governors has determined that selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following subcriteria, applied in the order set down. 1. Children whose parent (s)/guardian (s) have listed Our Lady’s Nursery School as their first preference. 2. Children who reside in Sacred Heart Parish and who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special circumstances (documentary evidence may be required) considered in the order set down; a) a child who is in the process of statutory assessment by the Education Authority at the time of proposed admission; b) Twins or other multiple births; c) Any other circumstance which the Board of Governors deem to be ‘special’ providing independent documentary evidence. 3. Children who reside in Sacred Heart Parish and have/had a brother or sister attend Our Lady’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) 4. Other children residing in Sacred Heart Parish. 5. Children who reside outside Sacred Heart Parish and have/had a brother or sister attend Our Lady’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) 6. Other children who reside outside Sacred Heart Parish. ‘Residency’ refers to the child’s own home and evidence of this will be required. In the event of oversubscription within any sub criteria final selection will be based on the shortest walking distance from the nursery school to the child’s home as measured by Google Maps. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 will be considered on the basis of rank order of age – oldest first. 99 Parents are advised that it is their responsibility to ensure that their application form is fully completed with all relevant details (e.g. if they had a sibling attend the school) to enable the above criteria to be applied. Where applications are made on the basis of Income Support/ Income Based Jobseekers Allowance, the relevant section MUST be completed and stamped by the Social Security Agency. The Admissions Criteria will be applied buy a sub-committee of the Board of Governors. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Our Lady’s Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admission criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. For example, whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any application form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicants application form. 100 RAVENSCROFT NURSERY SCHOOL RAVENSCROFT AVENUE BELFAST BT5 5BA Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9047 1684 Principal: Mrs Sharon Stark B.Ed. Website: www.ravenscroft.ik.org Email: [email protected] Ravenscroft Nursery School is situated adjacent to Bloomfield Avenue and the Holywood Arches junction. It is easily accessible by all major routes in East Belfast. A new, purpose built school was completed during the summer of 2009 to replace the previous, outdated nursery school. The school is set in its own grounds, with an exciting, safe and stimulating outdoor play area, which has been designed to the school’s own specifications. It includes a covered play area and sand pit which can be used during inclement weather. Indoors, there are two separate playrooms with an integral dividing wall that can be opened to allow children access to both rooms. There is also a parents’ room that can be used during the settling in period to provide reassurance, as well as being used throughout the year for parents’ information sessions. A large and bright entrance hall is also used for a variety of purposes, including music and movement, art activities and building. The nursery is exceptionally well resourced with an extensive variety of new equipment and toys. The new school has been designed to meet current disability access arrangements and has state of the art security, to ensure that children in the school have maximum protection. The staff of the school strive to create a warm and friendly approach where the children and parents feel welcome and wanted. The overall aim of Ravenscroft is to foster a flexible learning environment in which each child is given the opportunity to develop his/her full potential in every aspect of his/her growth under the guidance and support of the adults in the school, and in a spirit of co-operation with parents. All children attend a full-day session from 9.00am – 1.30pm. An open evening for prospective parents will be held on Thursday 5 December 2013 from 6.30 – 7.30pm. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 101 Sub-criteria In the event of the school being over-subscribed within any of the above the following subcriteria will be applied: a Children will be given priority when Ravenscroft Nursery is listed as the first preference. b Children whose parent is a permanent member of staff. c Children whose parent is currently a member of the Board of Governors. d Children whose permanent residence is the shortest distance from the front door of their home to the front gate of the school. Places will be granted in order of priority determined by the proximity of the permanent residence to the school. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement generated electronically using a computer programme provided by Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland. In the event of two or more children’s permanent residence being measured equidistant for the final place, preference will be given to the oldest child. e Where there are two children competing for the final place and meeting the other criteria, then the elder child will qualify for the place. In the event of vacancies remaining after the above criteria have been applied, the following criterion will be applied to other applicants. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 20112, on the basis of age ie eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Ravenscroft Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 102 ROSETTA PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT 21- 23 KNOCKBREDA ROAD BELFAST BT6 0JA Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9049 1650 Principal: Mr R Irvine Nursery Teacher: Mrs S Hudson Rosetta Nursery is an integral part of the primary school. It operates a full day system between the hours of 9.00 am and 1.30 pm. The spacious, bright room offers a wide variety of play activities; and also leads to a private multi-surfaced outdoor area. We are delighted to have children from many religions, nationalities and traditions learning together in a healthy multi-cultural environment. In the nursery we aim to provide a safe, caring and stimulating environment for children to reach their full potential, in an atmosphere that is supportive, warm, happy and friendly. Through the carefully planned activities, each child is challenged and can progress at his or her own rate physically, emotionally, socially and intellectually. The children are able to make their own discoveries, grow in self-confidence and become more independent. Experienced and qualified staff closely monitor children’s progress with a continual cycle of planning, observation, recording and assessment. While the nursery is self-contained with its own entrance and outdoor play area there is a connecting door to the school. The children visit the school, use the educational facilities and join in suitable events through the year ensuring they are both fully integrated into and well prepared for the transition to Rosetta primary school. Parents are invited to play a part in their child’s education. Several formal and informal parent/teacher meetings are arranged throughout the year informing parents of their child’s progress, while booklets, newsletters and notice boards provide information about nursery life and monthly curriculum details. Nursery parents are also invited to become involved in whole school social events and the Parent/Teacher Association. Prospective parents are invited to attend an Open Afternoon which will be held on Monday 16 December 2013, 2.30 – 4.00pm. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 103 In the event of over-subscription, within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied: (a) Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister or close relative currently enrolled as a pupil to Rosetta Primary School. (b) Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister formally enrolled as a pupil in Rosetta Primary School and who transferred from Rosetta to post-primary education, in the last school year (2013). (c) Children who have a parent, guardian or family member who is a current employee of the school. (d) Children whose parents have nominated Rosetta as their first choice. (e) In the event of there being more applicants than places then selection will be on the basis of rank order of age, oldest first. NOTE: Close relative is Aunt, Uncle or first Cousin. Please ensure all relevant information is included on or attached to the application form ie Name, Year Group and Date of Attendance for sub-criteria a-c. *Birth Certificate should be attached to application. All applications must be accompanied by proof of residence (eg utility bill). Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Rosetta Nursery School Unit that were initially refused, and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Please contact the school if you which for your child’s name to be included in the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 104 SANDBROOK NURSERY SCHOOL WELLWOOD AVENUE SYDENHAM BELFAST BT4 1NG Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9067 1115 www.sandbrooknursery.co.uk Principal: Mrs J D Hamilton BA(Hons) PGCE PQSH (NI) Sandbrook Nursery School is situated in the Sydenham area of East Belfast. The building is a modern, purpose built nursery school set in quite extensive grounds comprising a covered play area and generous grass area bounded by trees and shrubs. The building is well maintained and well resourced enabling the qualified and experienced staff to deliver a suitably balanced curriculum for pre-school children. It is the aim of the school to share with the parents in the all round growth and development of their children through the provision of a suitable environment for learning through play. Parents are encouraged to keep in close contact with the school and staff through parents’ meetings, consultations, news-sheets and through special events like the Christmas and Summer concerts, many are also involved as parent volunteers. Parents and children are invited to visit the school to view the play facilities and meet the staff during the summer term prior to starting nursery school in September/October. The staff may make home visits to offer advice and support for the settling in process. Throughout the year the staff organise a variety of school trips both local and further afield, and also encourage visits to the school from the local librarian, the dental hygienist, community police and local clergymen amongst others. The school has close links with local primary schools and support is given to parents and children for the transition from Nursery School to Primary School. The school staff consists of the Principal, Assistant Teacher, two Nursery Assistants, a part-time Secretary and a Caretaker. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Department of Education for Northern Ireland has advised on the drawing up of the following criteria for nursery schools. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Priority will be given in the following order to: 1. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 105 At the time of their proposed admission these children must not have a pre-school education place whether full time or part time at another school or any other premises. Sub- Criteria The Board of Governors of the school has drawn up sub- criteria to be followed in the event of over- subscription within any of the above criteria. i Children for whom Sandbrook Nursery School has been listed on the application form as first preference. ii Preference will be given to children who are siblings or half siblings of pupils and/or former pupils and other children living permanently at the same address. (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) iii Children whose parents are permanent employees of the school. This excludes School Meals Kitchen staff. iv Preference will be given to children whose permanent residence is the closest to the nursery. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement generated electronically using a computer program provided by the Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland. 1. Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over subscription within the above sub criteria, final selection will be on the basis of initial letter of surname (as entered on the birth certificate) in the order set out below: Z R V M S W Y Q L Mc T D C O N B P H Mac K U A J X I G F E This order was determined by a randomised selection of the letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames, the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used. These admission arrangements will apply for the 2014/ 2015 school year. Sandbrook Nursery School Admissions Waiting list Policy Sandbrook Nursery will operate a waiting list for all children that applied through the Board Application Procedure (ie on an official application form) by the official closing date. This will be from Friday 30 May 2014 of the allocation of places until 31 of August 2014. In the event a place arises within this time frame, it will be allocated according to the school admissions criteria. From 1 September, the waiting list will be extended to include all other children whose parents have notified the Nursery in writing. Original applicants need to contact the Nursery again at this point to inform the Principal that they wish their child’s name to be included on this waiting list which will operate from 1 September 2014 until 30 June 2015. Board of Governors Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre- schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on the form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information includes Social Security stamp, 2 documents as proof of permanent address, names and dates of siblings/ half siblings attending the Nursery and any other information that is deemed relevant under the schools admissions criteria. 106 SCOIL AN DROICHID NURSERY UNIT 4 COOKE STREET BELFAST BT7 2EP Grant Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9031 3283 Principal: Fionnghuala McCotter At Naíscoil and Droichid children of all denominations and cultural backgrounds can access the nursery curriculum and will have the opportunity to learn in a safe, comfortable, attractive and modern environment and develop their personal, emotional, social, physical and intellectual skills through the medium of Irish. Our aim is to meet the needs of each individual child and to encourage their development at a pace that suits them. An induction, or setting in period, is an important part of the entry process. During this time, a parent or mature relative will remain with the child for part of this time, but begin to leave for increasingly extended periods of time. It is important that parents co-operate with the teacher in this process. In the Naíscoil your child will learn through playing within a carefully constructed programme suitable for his/her age and needs. Most of the activities listed below will be available daily for the children: Imaginative play: house corner, dressing up clothes etc. Natural material: water, sand, dough etc. Creative material: paint, chalk, crayons etc. Songs and rhythms. Construction play: stickle bricks, lego, Interlocking bricks etc. Pre-writing material. Table top toys: jigsaws, games etc. The curriculum will also include visits to the park, farm etc. Each week the children will bring home a folder of work completed throughout the week. Handbooks will be provided at the beginning of each theme, outlining the main language targets and key phrases linked to that theme. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 107 Sub-criteria In the event of over subscription within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied. Priority will be given to those children whose parents choose Naíscoil an Droichid as their first preference. a Children whom the Board of Governors deem to have completed satisfactory attendance in the Irish Medium play group at An Droichead and who have or have had a brother or sister, or half brother or sister from within the same household attending Scoil an Droichid. (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) b Children who have a parent employed in the school and whom the Board of Governors deem to have completed satisfactory attendance in an Irish Medium preschool play group. c Children from an Irish language background. d A demonstrable commitment from parents to the promotion of the Irish language and culture eg possibly shown through attendance at evening classes or support for events initiated by the naíonra. e Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age - Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Scoil an Droichid Nursery School Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 108 SEAVIEW PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT SEAVIEW DRIVE BELFAST BT15 3NB Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9037 0114 Fax No: 028 9037 0970 Website: www.seaviewps.org.uk E-mail: [email protected] Principal: Miss M Bell MEd BEd DASE PQHNI Seaview Nursery Unit is a well-established and important part of the community which has very recently been refurbished to accommodate two classes and boasts a fresh and exciting new environment where we seek to provide a happy, meaningful start to formal education for all children. It aims to create a rich environment which stimulates the children’s interests and natural curiosity whilst freedom of choice allows them to experiment and play in their own unique way. The double nursery unit now consists of two large, bright playrooms which are well resourced to cater for the intellectual, physical, social and emotional development of the children. There are adjoining carpeted quiet rooms which are used for stories, songs and rhymes. A large play corridor is used for physical play along with two outdoor play areas. One of these areas consists of a garden border and a colourful, attractive safety surface with a new covered central area for play on wet days as well as dry. The other outdoor area has been newly constructed and also includes an attractive safety surface and is safely fenced to provide yet more space for our young learners. The nursery is an integral part of the Primary School and makes use of its various facilities thus ensuring a smooth transition into Primary One. Parents of children due to be enrolled in the nursery in September will be invited in May/June to meet the nursery staff and to discuss the various routines which exist in the nursery. Many other formal and informal opportunities are provided throughout the year for parents to visit the nursery. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA In order to select children in the event of the number of applications being greater than the number of places available, the following criteria, of which numbers 1-3 are imposed by DENI, will be applied successively and in the order stated until the admission number has been reached. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011; and who do not satisfy criterion 1. 109 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012; and who at the time of their proposed admission will not have a pre-school education place, whether full-time or part-time, at another nursery or any other premises. Sub-criteria In the event of there being more applicants than places available after the application of any of criteria 1 - 2, the Board of Governors has determined that priority will be assigned in the following order: a b c d Children whose parent/guardian are employees in the school or school kitchen. Children who have brothers/sisters, half-brothers/half-sisters, step-brothers/step-sisters, foster brother and/or foster sisters: (i) enrolled in the school in the school year 2014/2015. (Indicate name and year group) (ii) currently enrolled in the school. (Indicate name and year group) Children who have listed Seaview as their first preference. Children who live closest to the school. In applying the criterion of distance to school, preference will be given to children whose permanent residence is closest to the school, as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map, from the front door of the child’s home to the nursery gate of the school. (If there are equal measurements, children will be chosen on the oldest first) In the event of there being more applicants than places available after the application of criterion 2, the Board of Governors has determined that places will be allocated on the basis of age with priority being given to the eldest. Parents are advised that it is their responsibility to include in their application form any information required by the school to apply the above criteria. The Governors have resolved to delegate to the Principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of the above criteria and the admission of pupils to the nursery. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Seaview Nursery School Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 110 SHAFTESBURY NURSERY SCHOOL 23/25 PERCY STREET BELFAST BT13 2HS Telephone No: 028 9032 1903 Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Fax No: 028 9032 1903 E-mail: [email protected] Principal: Mrs Emma Corry BA ED HONS NPQH Shaftesbury Nursery is a purpose built school in the Greater Shankill area. It was built in 1968 and welcomes children from around the immediate community and beyond. We have two large well equipped classrooms which lead directly onto the garden area. There is also a room for parents to use informally as well as staff, for training and meetings. Parents play a key role in our school community and are very welcome. We provide a rich, stimulating and challenging curriculum for our children. Within a bright and exciting learning environment, children are encouraged to be confident, secure and independent learners so that they have the best possible start in their journey of education. Our school motto is “Little feet taking giant steps”. Our friendly staff hold a variety of professional early years qualifications and are committed to ensuring that all of our children learn and develop to the best of their ability. In order to enhance the children’s learning experiences we organise a number of educational visits and have many visitors working within the nursery. Parents are invited to join us for many of these activities and they are always enjoyed by everyone. We work closely with members of our local community and many of our events are held in our local community centre next door to the school. We enjoy a close partnership with our cross community school St Peter’s Nursery. We organise many joint events for the children, parents and staff so that friendships can be forged across both communities. The opening hours of this school are 9.00 am to 1.30 pm. We also offer a breakfast club that runs every day from 8.30 am. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Priority must be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Priority will be given in the following order: 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 111 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the event of applications exceeding vacant places in any of the categories 1 to 2 the following sub criterion will apply;1 List Shaftesbury Nursery School as their first preference on their application. 2 Are siblings of any child who is attending/has attended Shaftesbury Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) 3 Who live closest to the school. Distance will be determined by the proximity of the child’s home to Shaftesbury Nursery School. Measurements will be generated as the crow flies electronically using the Ordnance Survey website. In the event of two or more children living equi-distant from the school places will be allocated in alphabetical order of name (surname first) as the name appears on the birth certificate. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Within criterion 3, priority will be given to the children of staff and then the oldest children in this category. In the event of two or more children having the same date of birth, priority will be given to those children who live closest to the school as measured along the footpath from the school front door to the child’s front door. In the event of two or more children having the same date of birth and living equi-distant from the school, places will be allocated in alphabetical order of name (surname first) as the name appears on the birth certificate. The Board of Governors has delegated to the Principal the application of the above criteria. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Shaftesbury Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 112 ST ANNE’S PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT 50 KINGSWAY, FINAGHY BELFAST Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time places BT10 0NE Telephone No: 028 9061 5414 Website: www.saintannesprimary.org/site Principal: M Keenan B.Ed., DASE, M.Ed., PQH (NI) Teacher in charge: Mrs M Murphy B.Ed. Assistant teacher: Mrs A McLaughlin B.Ed. St Anne’s Nursery is located in a modern, purpose-built unit, set in the pleasant and wooded grounds of St Anne’s School and church, between Finaghy and Dunmurry. It is an integral part of St Anne’s School. St. Anne’s Nursery is a caring and stimulating environment, designed to promote the holistic development of each child. The individual needs and abilities of the children are recognised and catered for. The attainment of excellence is pursued in an atmosphere that is warm, happy and friendly and is characterised by the daily living out of our catholic faith. ‘The staff are caring and supportive of the children’s needs and they use appropriate strategies to develop their confidence and self-esteem.’ DENI Inspection Report, April 2013. The carefully planned activities include imaginative, social, creative, manipulative and investigative play, listening to stories, working on computers and outdoor play. The children develop their language skills and their early mathematical and scientific knowledge and skills. ‘The development of the children’s early mathematical concepts and language, and their knowledge and understanding of the World Around Us are particular strengths of the programme.’ DENI Inspection Report, April 2013. There is a full programme of enrichment including visits from Streamvale Farm, Exploris, the Fire Service, Belfast Zoo and Road Safety. In addition, there are ongoing programmes with ‘Fitness Freddy’ and ‘Music and Movement’. The Unit comprises two large, bright, stimulating rooms, fully resourced for pre-school education. There are two “quiet rooms” for story-time, discussions and quiet activities. We have a large, secure, enclosed outdoor play area with toys, games and equipment to develop the children’s physical, co-ordination, manipulative and social skills. The Nursery is open from 9.00 am to 1.30 pm. A cooked lunch is served each day and we have a policy of Healthy Eating. The children wear a comfortable uniform. The Nursery is staffed by two fully-qualified teachers, with considerable pre-school experience, and two fully-qualified Nursery Assistants. We have a very strong relationship with our parents. We value their contribution and involve them actively in their child’s pre-school education. We keep our parents fully informed, through monthly newsletters and three-times-per-year parent/teacher meetings. We have two days in June of each year when we meet our new intake for September – providing information for parents and familiarising the children with the Nursery. 113 Parental questionnaires from the recent DENI inspection indicated ‘a very high level of satisfaction with the educational and pastoral provision being provided within the school and the nursery unit.’ We are closely involved with our Primary School, making use of its facilities and attending some of its events, for example, concerts and music mornings. We liaise closely with the Primary 1 teachers, to ensure a smooth transition to Primary education. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors have resolved to delegate to the Principal and Vice-Principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of the criteria and the admission of pupils to the nursery. All references below to the ‘Board of Governors’ refer to the Principal and Vice-Principal. The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available, the following admissions criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. (Some of the criteria are determined by the Department of Education.) *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. When parents apply for places for their child on this basis they should have their application forms stamped by the Social Security Agency. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* and who reside in the Parish of St Anne’s. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 who reside in the Parish of St Anne’s. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 5 Children born on or after 2 July 2011 - places will be allocated on the basis of age with priority given to the oldest. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription in any of the above criteria, selection will be applied in the order set down below. A place will be offered to: a) Children whose brothers/half brothers, sisters/half sisters are currently enrolled in St Anne’s Primary School or Nursery Unit. 114 b) Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is/are currently a permanent employee or a member of the Board of Governors in St Anne’s Primary School and Nursery Unit. c) On the basis of initial letter of surname (as entered on the birth certificate) in the order set out below: N I W U O K M J E R H F G Z S Y Mc P V T A D C Mac L X B Q This order was determined by a randomised selection of letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter, the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forename (as entered on the birth certificate) will be used. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Anne’s Nursery School Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 September 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 115 ST BERNADETTE’S NURSERY SCHOOL GLENALINA ROAD BELFAST BT12 7JG Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9032 8601 Principal: Mrs Róisín Cassidy BEd DASE (Primary Educ) DASE (Nursery Educ) St Bernadette’s Nursery School is a purpose built maintained nursery school situated in Ballymurphy, West Belfast. The school opened in 1977 to cater mainly for the educational needs of the children from the Ballymurphy Estate (Corpus Christi Parish). The school offers 52 full-time places. As a Catholic School our aim is to provide a welcoming and caring environment in which the needs of the whole child are met. We recognise the uniqueness of each child and aim to ensure that the curriculum we offer is appropriate and challenging. We see our school as part of a caring community - Board of Governors, Clergy, Staff, pupils and parents sharing a common vision of Catholic Education. We greatly value the role of parents in the Nursery School. Parents are always welcome in our school. Regular parent meetings are held to inform parents of their child’s progress. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of the proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors have determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the Parish of Corpus Christi. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parish of Corpus Christi. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 116 5 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parish of Corpus Christi. 6 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Sub-criteria In the event of more pupils satisfying the last criterion which can be applied in the order of priority set down above, then selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following sub-criteria. 1 Children who have had their penultimate year in this school. 2 Children who have listed this nursery as their first preference. 3 Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances which merit special consideration, for example, a child whose parent has a serious long-term illness (medical evidence required) or a child from a family of three or more pre-school age children. 4 Children with brother(s)/sister(s)/half brother(s)/half sister(s) presently enrolled in John Paul II Primary School. (Indicate name and year group) 5 Children with brother(s)/sister(s)/half brother(s)/half sister(s) who are past pupils of St Bernadette’s or St Aidan’s C.B.P.S. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 6 Only child or eldest child. 7 Children of current permanent staff or Governors of St Bernadette’s Nursery School. In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining for the last sub-criteria which can be applied then selection will be on the basis of chronological order of age, oldest first. The Admissions Criteria will be applied by a Nursery Admissions Sub-Committee consisting of the Principal and three Governors subject to the final approval of the Board of Governors. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Bernadette’s Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 117 ST BRIDE’S PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT DERRYVOLGIE AVENUE BELFAST BT9 6FP Telephone No: Primary School: 028 9038 1700 Nursery Unit: 028 9038 1020 E-Mail: [email protected] Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Fax No: 028 9068 3440 Principal: Mr P Carswell Assistant Teachers: Ms Catherine Ward Mrs Julia McCandless St Bride’s Nursery Unit is an integral part of St Bride’s Primary School which is situated between the Malone and Lisburn Roads. The Unit comprises two classrooms and an outdoor play area. Our aim is to create an environment in which the social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual needs of the children are developed. As a Catholic Nursery school we are committed to the aims of Catholic education, its values and attitudes. We endeavor to build on the foundations laid at home and take account of the child’s previous experience to promote growth in each developmental area. Each child is catered for according to his/her individual needs and is guided in a programme which will enable him/her to integrate smoothly into the primary sector with which close links are maintained. Parents of nursery children are invited to participate actively in the life of the school through parent/teacher meetings, interviews, social events and through membership of the Parent Teacher Association. The unit is open from 9.00 am - 2.00 pm and is staffed by 2 teachers and 2 nursery assistants. A Nursery uniform is worn. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has established the school’s admission criteria and has delegated to the Principal its function and responsibility in relation to their application. Enrolment number: 52 The following criteria will be used to allocate places in the Nursery Unit in the order listed below. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1. children whose parents are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* in their final pre-school year i.e. born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 118 2. children not falling within sub-paragraph 1 and in their final pre-school year i.e. born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 and who at the time of the proposed admission will not have a pre-school education place whether full time or part time at another school or any other placement. Sub-criteria to be applied, in the order listed below, in the event of being oversubscribed in any of the above criteria. a. Children who have one or both parents deceased and who are resident within the geographical boundaries St Brigid’s Parish. (parent’s/guardian’s address, not address of childminder) b Children whose parents are members of the permanent teaching, auxiliary or ancillary staff of St Bride’s Primary School. (or who has been appointed to take up imminent employment) c. Children whose place of residence is within the geographical boundaries of St Brigid’s Parish ((parent’s/guardian’s address, not address of childminder) and for whom St. Bride’s Nursery is first preference. d other applicants. In the event of being oversubscribed in any of the above sub criteria, children will be selected on the basis of the initial letter of the surname (in the order listed on the birth certificate) in the order set down below: TFSAXBYCILVQHOKPMEWZGDRJNU (This order was determine by a randomised section of the letters of the alphabet. This will be randomised annually. Mc and Mac come under “M”) In the event of surnames beginning with the same letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order and if identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used, as listed on the birth certificate. NB Proof of residence will be required. Residence is at time of the application. Any subsequent change of address should be notified as soon as possible along with verifying documents. Brothers or sisters include half/step-brother and /half /step-sister. The admissions criteria will be administered by the Principal. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 119 “Applicants should note that where an address contained within an application qualifies it for admission, then that address will be verified. To enable the Board of Governors to verify addresses, all applicants should provide any two of the following four documents: - a bank or building society statement which shows the address at which the child is resident; a utility bill (for instance electricity, gas, Television Licence, telephone) which shows the address at which the child is resident; a letter awarding Child Benefit to the child or another letter relating to this benefit; the child’s Medical Card. This is in addition to the standard requirement to provide a Birth Certificate in order to verify the age of the child. Original documents are required and not facsimiles or photocopies and should be presented in person. Applicants seeking alternative verifying arrangements should contact those preschools listed on their application form that require verifying documents to agree alternative verification arrangements. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide verifying documents according to the required deadline may result in either the withdrawal of a place or the inability of a pre-school to offer a place. Should a vacancy arise after the initial issue of letters of offer, all applications for admission to Nursery that were initially refused, new applications, late application and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 31 December 2014. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. After 31 December 2014, parents would need to contact the school to continue to have the name remain on the waiting list. 120 ST CLARE’S NURSERY UNIT 288 CUPAR STREET BELFAST BT13 2LJ Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9032 6010 Principal: Mrs Colette White Teacher in Charge of Nursery Unit: Mrs E Jackson BEd The St Clare’s Nursery Unit is a two unit facility with spacious surrounds offering 52 full-time places. All children attend a full day session - Nursery hours 9.00am - 1.30pm. It is ‘Catholic Maintained’ and is situated in the Clonard area of Belfast. Its purpose is to serve the needs of pre-school children from St Paul’s Parish. There are four full-time qualified members of staff, two teachers and two classroom assistants. The primary aim of St Clare’s Nursery Unit is to help lead each of our children into a closer relationship with God and to foster Catholic values and attitudes. We believe that each child is special and our curriculum seeks to promote the holistic development of each pupil. We work in close partnership with parents and the local community in providing a stimulating, happy, caring and safe environment where pupils are given the opportunity to grow emotionally, spiritually, morally, physically and intellectually. Our aim is to ensure that all children progress at their own rate. They have opportunities through play to develop values, positive attitudes, skills and concepts and to acquire knowledge and understanding. The children must feel totally secure before any learning can take place. St Clare’s recognise the importance of parents and teachers working in partnership. Parents are valued in the Nursery and are encouraged to take part in school trips, classroom based activities and Parenting Programmes. Other courses and topics of interest are offered to ensure that the Nursery experience is an enjoyable and productive one. We welcome visitors from the local community and have established close links with the local primary schools. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has established the nursery unit’s admissions criteria and has delegated to the Principal its function and responsibilities in relation to their application. The Board of Governors have determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. 121 *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* and who reside in the parish of St Paul’s. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parents/guardians reside in the parish of St Paul’s. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria If the school is oversubscribed at any of the stages 1-4 above, the following sub-criteria will be applied: 1 Any child returning for a second year in St. Clare’s Nursery. 2 Child of a member of Staff. 3 Children whose brothers/sisters, half-brothers/half-sisters, foster brothers/sisters are presently enrolled in St Clare’s Primary/Nursery, or have applied for enrolment to Primary 1 in St Clare’s Primary. (Indicate name and year group) 4 Children whose brothers/sisters, half-brothers/half-sisters, foster brothers/sisters have previously attended the nursery school. (Indicate name and years of attendance) 5 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011, from the parish of St Paul’s, who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special educational needs, which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors. 6 Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances considered in the following order: a a child who has one or both parents deceased; b a child whose parent has a serious long term illness (medical evidence required); c children who are twins (or other multiple births); 7 Children whose first preference choice is St Clare’s Nursery. Residency refers to the child’s home and not that of a relative or a childminder. 122 In the event of oversubscription in any of the above sub-criteria selection will be given on the basis of initial letter of Surname (as listed on the child’s birth certificate. D S C V Mac I A N B M Z E G Y Q W L J Mc H T U P F R O K X (This order was determined by a randomized selection of letters of the alphabet) 5 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. In the event of over-subscription within criterion 5, final selection will be based on eldest first. Those children born on the same day, final selection will be made on the basis of alphabetical order, first by surname and then by Christian/Forename as listed on the child’s birth certificate. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Clare’s Nursery School Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 123 ST MALACHY’S NURSERY UNIT ELIZA STREET BELFAST BT7 2AT Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time places Telephone No: 028 9023 5968 Principal: Mr B White, BEd MA The Board of Governors has drawn up the school’s admission criteria and has delegated to a sub-committee its functions and responsibilities in relation to the application of these criteria and the admission of pupils to the school. St Malachy’s Primary School is a Catholic Maintained Co-Educational School. The nursery unit attached to the school opened in 1995. St Malachy’s is a modern nursery school, which consists of two bright classrooms including play area and a spacious well equipped outdoor play area. The Curriculum is broad and balanced and is carefully planned using a wealth of educational resources. We aim for each child to meet their full potential in a happy, secure, safe and stimulating environment through fostering their spiritual, moral, cultural, intellectual and physical development. Each child will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities: imaginative play, sand and water play, construction etc as well as language skills, storytelling, working the computers and development of early mathematical and scientific concepts. The curriculum also includes a variety of school outings and visitors to the school. During a recent general inspection the nursery unit was highlighted as being one of the strengths of the school. Our staff are well qualified and experienced to guide, support, encourage and stimulate your child. Over the years we have developed close links with our parents, who are encouraged to become involved in curricular and extra-curricular activities throughout the school year. Any parent wishing to apply for a place in St Malachy’s are very welcome to visit the nursery. Please contact the school to arrange an appointment. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in St Malachy’s Parish, Belfast. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 124 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in St Malachy’s Parish. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 from St Malachy’s Parish, Belfast who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. (Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors). 5 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 6 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the St Malachy’s Parish, Belfast. 7 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription within any of the above criteria (1-7), the following Sub-criteria will be applied. a Children who have St Malachy’s Nursery Unit as their first preference. b Children who are already in their penultimate year at St Malachy’s Nursery Unit. c Children whose parent/guardian, brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister are current pupils of St Malachy’s Primary School/Unit. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) d Children whose parent/guardian, brother/sister, half-brother/half-sister are past pupils of St Malachy’s Primary School/Unit. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) e Children whose parent/guardian will be permanent members of staff in the school year 2014/2015. f If over-subscribed in any of the above sub-criteria taken in order, final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname in the order set down below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. M J P R I Mac O’ L K D S V E H G Z X A F B Q O Y U N C T W Mc The order was determined by a randomized selection of the letters of the alphabet. In the event of two surnames beginning with the same initial letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used. g Children who have special circumstances eg. medical, educational, social, etc., supported by evidence from parents and/or statutory agencies. 125 h Children who are in the process of a statutory assessment at the time of proposed admission. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Malachy’s Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 126 ST MARIA GORETTI NURSERY SCHOOL WHITEROCK GARDENS BELFAST BT12 7PS Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time places Telephone No: 028 9023 4882 Principal: Mrs Mary Murray M.Ed, B.Ed (Hons), PQHNI St. Maria Goretti Nursery School was built to serve the needs of St John's Parish and has a close relationship with the Parish and its Primary School, St. Kevin’s. All children at our nursery enjoy a happy and secure environment where they have access to a wide range of learning experiences through a varied curriculum, thus enhancing their selfesteem and confidence and laying the foundations for lifelong learning. We believe in establishing a close partnership with parents who are encouraged to take an active role in supporting their children's learning by participating in the life of the nursery. This includes accompanying us on Educational Visits, borrowing our teaching packs to enhance home learning and attending the various workshops that are planned throughout the year. We meet regularly with parents to discuss children's well-being and we have procedures in place to support children with special needs. Outdoor play activities are a strong feature of our curriculum as we promote a healthy lifestyle in all aspects of the nursery. St Maria Goretti Nursery School achieves consistently good outcomes for its pupils. Our staff are a highly qualified and dedicated team and includes two full-time teachers, two full-time nursery assistants and two part-time nursery assistants who always strive to provide excellent educational experiences for all our children. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The following criteria will be applied in the order set down for the admission of children to St Maria Goretti Nursery School in the school year 2014-2015. The admissions criteria shall be applied by a Selection Committee consisting of the Principal and three Governors, subject to the final approval of the Board of Governors. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of the proposed admission. Admissions numbers are 52 full-time places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the Parish of St John the Evangelist. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 127 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parish of St John the Evangelist. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria The Board of Governors has drawn up the sub-criteria to be used should the number of children who satisfy the requirement of any criterion exceed the number of places still available within the school’s admission number. These criteria will be applied successively and in the order set down, to the group of children who satisfied the criterion which caused the number of places available to be exceeded, until all of the places have been allocated. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Children who have listed the school as their first preference. Children whose parent/guardian is currently a permanent employee in the school or a member of the Board of Governors. Children whose siblings have previously attended the school. (Indicate name and date of attendance) Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011, who are considered by the Education and Library Board as having significant special needs which indicate that the child would benefit from Nursery Education. Documentary evidence must be attached to pre-school application form. Children with special home circumstances: a. other child/parent with a serious long-term illness – medical evidence required b. a child who has one or both parents deceased c. children who are twins (or other multiple birth) Children in their penultimate pre-school year that is children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 on the basis of chronological age-eldest first. In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining, after the above criteria have all been applied, then selection will be on the basis of this randomized order of the letters of the alphabet. (Surname first, followed by Christian/forename as shown on the Birth certificate.) K C X Y U H I N B Z J R D G Q F M V L W A T S Mac P O Mc E In the event of two or more children having the same surname and Christian/forename a ‘random selection tie-breaker’ will be applied. Waiting List Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St. Maria Goretti Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Please contact the school if you wish your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the Application Form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the Application Form or attached to it. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 128 ST MARTIN’S NURSERY SCHOOL Monagh Link BELFAST BT11 8EJ Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9062 2235 Fax No: 028 9062 2235 Principal: Mrs A Kearney B.Ed D.A.S.E. St Martin’s Nursery School is a modern two unit Catholic Maintained School in the west of the city on the Black Mountain, serving the Turf Lodge estate and the Holy Trinity Parish although we welcome applications from elsewhere. It has extensive grounds to facilitate learning in the outdoor classroom and facilities include a Parents’ Room, a Parent Facilitator and extended school activities. The school has won various awards including Best Kept School, Brighter Belfast Environmental award and the coveted Eco Flag. The school is strongly committed to including special needs children and particularly A.S.D children. The school is also strongly committed to the Catholic ethos, which we all share and we have forged strong links with the wider parish community. St Martin’s is a place where everyone is valued for his/her uniqueness and we aim to be an extension of the warm loving home environments from which our children come. Our school motto is “Education is not the filling of a bucket but the lighting of a fire”, W.B.Yeats and at a recent inspection the school attained “outstanding” status. Admissions Criteria Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following admissions criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* in their final pre-school year. 2 Children not falling within (1) above in their final school year. Sub-criteria In the event of more pupils satisfying the last criterion which can be applied, in the order of priority set down above, then selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following sub-criteria. 129 Children living within the Parish of Holy Trinity: 1 Children with brother(s)/sister(s)/half brother(s)/half sister(s)attending/attended St Martin’s Nursery/Holy Trinity Primary School. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) 2 Priority will be given to applicants that list St Martin’s as their first preference. 3 First/only child in the family. (Twins or multiple births will be considered as a first child) This will be verified by Church Records. 4 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is/are currently a permanent employee in the school St Martin’s Nursery School/Holy Trinity Primary School. 5 Children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances considered in the following order: (a) a child who has one or both parents deceased; (b) a child whose parent has a serious long term illness (medical evidence required); (c) children with exceptional family circumstances (evidence required). 6 Children who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors, by a psychologist etc or from a referral by medical or psychological service. In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining for the last sub-criterion which can be applied then selection will be on the basis of whose parent(s)/guardian(s) homes are closest to the Nursery School as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the Nursery School. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St. Martin’s Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until June 2015. The school will contact you if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Please contact the school if you wish your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the Application Form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the Application Form or attached to it. Examples of such information include our sub-criteria. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 130 ST MARY’S NURSERY SCHOOL 822 SHORE ROAD NEWTOWNABBEY BT36 7DG Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9077 4302 Principal: Mrs S Hoy BEd (Hons) MEd St Mary’s Nursery School is a purpose built Nursery School situated in the beautiful grounds of St Mary’s Church, Greencastle. The Catholic ethos is obvious in the happy, caring and warm atmosphere, which permeates the school. Two qualified teachers staff the school alongside three qualified nursery assistants all of whom have specialised qualifications in early years education. In partnership with the parents we aim to promote the development of happy, secure, confident children who are striving toward independent learning. As play is the principle means of learning in the early years we provide opportunities to explore and experiment through challenging, progressive activities. The well-planned curriculum ensures a broad, balanced curriculum incorporating early literacy, mathematical and scientific development alongside physical, creative and imaginative development and thus lays foundations for lifelong learning. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has determined that, in the event of more applicants than places available, the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places: *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the Parish of St Mary’s, Greencastle and St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Whitehouse and whose first preference choice is St Mary’s Nursery School. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parish of St Mary’s, Greencastle and St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Whitehouse and whose first preference choice is St Mary’s Nursery School. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 131 Sub-criteria In the event of over-subscription in any of the above criteria the following sub-criteria will apply: A Children in the pre-primary school year from the Parish of St Mary’s, Greencastle and St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Whitehouse who are deemed to have Special Educational Needs from assessments by educational psychologists, designated medical officers and other such assessments as deemed appropriate by the Education and Library Board. B Children who, in the opinion of the Board of Governors, have special home circumstances, considered in the order set down: i Other child/parent with a serious long-term illness - medical evidence required. ii A child who has one or both parents deceased. iii Children who are twins or multiple births. C Children whose parent/guardian/grandparent is currently a permanent employee in the school. D Children whose parent/grandparent is currently a serving member of the Board of Governors of St Mary’s Nursery School. E Children whose brother/sister previously attended St Mary’s Nursery School and whose first preference choice is St Mary’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) F Children whose first preference choice is St Mary’s Nursery School. In the event of there being more applications than places remaining for the last sub-criteria which can be applied, selection will then be determined by a straight line measurement on the Ordnance Survey map from the front gate of the Nursery School to the child’s home. In the event of equal distances, final selection will be in order of the alphabet of the child’s surname as recorded on the birth certificate. (As used in the telephone directory) 5 Children in their penultimate pre-school year from the parish of St Mary’s Greencastle and St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Whitehouse. 6 Other children in their penultimate pre-school year. Within the final sub-criterion the basis will be in rank order of age - oldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Mary’s Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 132 ST MATTHEW’S PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT SEAFORDE STREET BELFAST BT5 4EW Maintained Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9045 7885 Fax No: 028 9045 8477 Principal: Mr Joseph McGuinness Bed, DASE, MSc, PQSH Head of Nursery Unit: Mrs Jennifer Donnelly, B.Ed (Hons) St. Matthew’s Nursery Unit opened in 1996 as a two unit facility and now offers 52 full-time places. The Nursery will seek to develop each child’s potential in all spheres of Nursery education according to the Catholic tradition. The Nursery programme offers a wide range of pre-school learning experiences in structured play, language development, art and pre-writing skills, social interaction activities and imaginative play. The children have exclusive use of the school gymnasium for physical education activities. The Nursery school pays particular attention to promoting a love of reading. Library books are exchanged on a daily basis. The children are provided with a mid-morning snack and a cooked lunch each day. The Nursery is totally self-contained. It is fully equipped for indoor, outdoor and table-top activities. At the last inspection, the Nursery was identified as one of the major strengths of the school. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The school will adhere to the statutory admissions criteria as outlined in DENI Circular 2007/11 of the Pre-school Education in Schools Regulations (NI) 1998. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the case of over-subscription in the application of the statutory criteria, taken in order, the following sub-criteria will be applied, successively, as follows: Sub-criteria a Children who normally reside in St Matthew’s Parish.** b Children whose brother(s)/ sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) and any other children living permanently at the same address who are currently enrolled in St Matthew’s Primary School or Nursery Unit. (Indicate name and year group) 133 c Children of current permanent staff or Governors of St Matthew’s Primary School. d Children who reside in Zone 1 in St Anthony’s Parish. Zone 1 - Beginning at the Ravenhill Road end - all residences in the Parish area to the left of My Lady’s Road and Willowfield Street to the Castlereagh Road. This Zone will be referenced in the criteria for St Matthew’s Primary School. e Children from St Matthew’s Parish with documented special needs which can be suitably addressed by a Nursery placement and who are deemed suitable by the Belfast Education and Library Board to be educated in a mainstream school. f Children whose parents attended St Matthew’s Primary School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) g Children who are the eldest as determined by their age on a certified birth certificate. 3 Should the application of the above criteria and sub-criteria fail to yield the Nursery Unit’s enrolment quota, then children born between 2 July 2011– 1 July 2012 will be considered on the basis of the above sub-criteria, with preference being given to rank order of age with the eldest being selected first at each criteria level. ** Residency refers to the child’s home and not that of a childminder. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Matthew’s Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 134 ST MICHAEL’S NURSERY SCHOOL 2 STEWARTSTOWN ROAD BELFAST BT11 9JP Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9043 1040 Principal: Miss F Greene, DASE B Ed CertEd St. Michael’s Nursery School is a Catholic Maintained Nursery School situated on the Stewartstown Road in West Belfast. The school opened in September 1991 traditionally catering for the needs of three and four year old children in St. Michael’s Parish and when possible from the wider community. It is a double unit nursery offering full-time pre-school education to 52 children from 8.45am to 1.30pm. The full time staff comprise of two teachers and two nursery assistants all of whom have specialised qualifications in early years education. Our goal is to provide a safe, secure, happy and stimulating environment for the children. As a Catholic nursery school we are committed to fostering the development of Catholic values and attitudes. The Curriculum When referring to the curriculum of our Nursery School we are concerned with building on children’s experiences, matching activities to their needs and providing planned purposeful activities for teaching and learning both indoors and out. When planning the curriculum we take into account the way in which the pre-school child develops, that is the development of speech and language, physical skills, intellectual development and social and moral development. Hence we consider each child at his/her particular stage of development and aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum to fulfil and challenge him/her throughout the school year. We value the role of parents in children’s education and encourage parents to participate in the life of the school through activities such as story telling, gardening, school trips and fund raising. Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors have resolved to delegate to the Principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of the criteria and the admission of pupils to the nursery school. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’ 1. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 135 The statutory criteria as listed will be applied to all applications received by the official closing date. Sub Criteria In the event of over subscription within any of the named statutory criteria the following sub criteria will be applied: 1. Children who have listed St. Michael’s Nursery School as their first preference. 2. Children of staff currently employed in St. Michael’s Nursery School. 3. Children whose parents are currently serving members of the Board of Governors. 4. Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the parish of St. Michael’s in order of priority as noted below: (a) Children deemed to have special circumstances which would have a significant impact on their education as supported by documentary evidence from an Education and Library Board, Child Development Clinic or Senior Medical Officer. (b) Children deemed to have special home circumstances considered in the following order: i. a child who has one or both parents deceased ii. a child whose parent has a serious long term illness (medical evidence to reflect the serious nature of the illness). (c) Brother(s)/sister(s) attending St. Michael’s Nursery School. (d) Children whose brother(s)/sister(s) half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) have attended St. Michael’s Nursery School (Indicate name and date of attendance). (e) Brother(s)/Sister(s) half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) attending St. John the Baptist Primary School. (Indicate name and year group) (f) Other children in St. Michael’s Parish. 5. Children who reside outside St. Michael’s Parish in order of priority as noted below: (a) Brother/sister attending St. Michael’s Nursery School. (b) Children whose brother(s)/sister(s) have previously attended St. Michael’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) (c) Brother(s)/sister(s) attending St. John the Baptist Primary School. (Indicate name and year group). 6. Remaining children in their pre-school year. 7. Children in their penultimate pre-school year, that is children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 on the basis of chronological age of the children. 136 If over-subscribed in any of the sub criteria taken in order concerning children in their final preschool year final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of their surname in the order set down below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. H S T Q C Mac N Z L F J R B A X G Y P V I O K Mc U W E M D The order was determined by a randomized selection of letters of the alphabet made on 11 September 2013. In the event of surnames with the same initial letter the next letter of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the forename as registered on the birth certificate will be used. Important Notice Completion of Application Form When considering which children should be selected for admission the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should ensure that all information relating to their child and relevant to the school’s admission criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include: - Residency in St. Michael’s parish - Name(s) of siblings who have attended St. Michael’s Nursery School (Name(s) and Date of Attendance) - Name(s) of siblings attending St. John the Baptist Primary School (Name(s) and Year Group). Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 those children of parents who made applications on or before 10 January 2014 and applications where new information has been provided will be given priority before any new or late applicants. Places are allocated using the above criteria. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. The Board of Governors have delegated to the Principal the responsibility for the allocation of places in accordance with the school’s Admission Criteria. Duty to verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require any supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools admissions procedures can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 137 ST OLIVER PLUNKETT NURSERY SCHOOL GLEN ROAD BELFAST BT11 8AY Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9060 0529 Principal: Mrs Ellen Farren St Oliver Plunkett Nursery School was established in 1992. It is a purpose built school and occupies a pleasant, well maintained site on the main Glen Road beside St Oliver Plunkett Primary School. The school is well equipped and resourced. The staff of the Nursery value the importance of parents in the young child’s development and education and, with the Board of Governors, are committed to a close relationship with parish and parents. The Catholic ethos is obvious in the warm, caring and happy atmosphere which permeates the Nursery. The individuality of each child is valued and a broad-based curriculum is provided, aimed at developing each child’s skills to full potential. Admissions Criteria Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors request that 2 types of proof of address MUST be provided at the time of application. The Board of Governors have determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available, the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the Parish of St Oliver Plunkett. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parish of St Oliver Plunkett and for whom St Oliver Plunkett Nursery School is their 1 st preference. 138 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 from the Parish of St Oliver Plunkett who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. (Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors). 5 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011, whose parents/guardians reside in the Parish of St Joseph’s, Hannahstown and for whom St Oliver Plunkett Nursery School is their first preference. 6 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 7 Other children in their penultimate pre-school year from the parish of St Oliver Plunkett will be accepted on the basis of oldest first. 8 Other children in their penultimate pre-school year on the basis of oldest first. Sub-criteria 1 Children whose brothers/sisters presently/previously enrolled in St Oliver Plunkett Nursery School. (Indicate name and date of attendance) 2 Children whose brothers/sisters presently/previously enrolled in St Oliver Plunkett Primary School. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) 3 Children whose parent/parents/guardian are resident in the Parish of St Oliver Plunkett and who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special home circumstances, considered in the following order; a a child who has one or both parents deceased b a child whose parent has a serious long-term illness - medical evidence required 4 Children whose parent/guardian is currently a permanent employee in the Nursery School or St Oliver Plunket Primary School. 5 Tie-breaker – Children will be selected for admission on the basis of initial letter of surname (as entered on the Birth Certificate) in the order set out below: GPMOTINHEFSURCDLZBJQWAYVKX The Admissions Criteria will be applied by a Nursery Admissions Sub-Committee consisting of the Principal and three Governors subject to the final approval of the Board of Governors. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Oliver Plunkett Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 139 ST PAUL’S NURSERY SCHOOL UNIT AMCOMRI STREET BELFAST BT12 7NE Maintained Nursery School Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9024 9559 (Nursery) 028 9032 8968 (Primary) Principal: Mr C O’Doherty B.Ed Hons, M.Ed, PQH Teacher in charge: Ms C McDonald-Anakaa B Ed Hons St Paul’s Nursery Maintained School 1980 to serve the Primary School as 52 children. Unit is the Nursery department of St Paul’s Primary School a Catholic situated in the Beechmount area of West Belfast. The nursery opened in needs of pre-school children from St Paul’s Parish and joined St Paul’s a unit in September 2011. The nursery currently offers full-time places for The nursery is set on its own grounds with a large outdoor play and grass area. Accommodation consists of two spacious, bright and fully equipped playrooms each with an attached quiet room and toilet room. Nursery staff strive to provide a welcoming, caring and stimulating environment in which each child will have the opportunity to reach his/her full potential in every area of growth and development, in an atmosphere of self-respect and respect for others. We are a fully inclusive school and welcome children from all cultural backgrounds. We recognise the valuable role which parents play in the education of their children and we are committed to creating useful opportunities for parental involvement in the life of the school. We believe that the nursery, parents and the wider community must work together to provide the quality pre-school education our children deserve. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. The Board of Governors have determined that, in the event of more applicants than the places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select children for the available places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 140 3 Other children in chronological order. Sub-criteria If the school is oversubscribed at any of the stages 1-3 above, the following sub-criteria will be applied: 1 Residency within the geographical boundaries of St Paul’s Parish. 2 Children who are considered by an Education and Library Board, Senior Medical Officer, Speech & Language Therapy Service, as having Special Needs, which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education, supporting evidence must be attached to the application form. 3 Children with brothers/half-brothers and sister/half-sisters who previously attended St Paul’s Nursery School/Unit. (Indicate name and date of attendance) 4 Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is/are currently a permanent employee in St Paul’s Primary School/Nursery Unit. 5 In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining for the last sub-criteria which can be applied, then selection will be on the basis of a randomized computer selection of letters of the alphabet. First by surname and then by Christian/forename in the order listed on the birth certificate. In the event of two children having the same surname and Christian/forename a computerized ‘random selection tie-breaker’ will be applied. C V L J X Mac A O U D F Mc P S R Q K I E W T M G H Y N Z B (This order was determined by a randomized selection of letters of the alphabet. annually.) This will be randomized In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order and if identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forename will be used, as listed on the birth certificate. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Paul’s Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 141 ST PETER’S NURSERY SCHOOL SERVIA STREET BELFAST BT12 4EJ Maintained Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9024 6675 Principal: Mrs R Mallon B.A., P.G.C.E., M.Ed. St. Peter’s is a Catholic Maintained Nursery School and our aim is to nurture children in the ethos of the Catholic Faith. The school is permanently staffed by two qualified teachers and four nursery assistants who have trained in early years education. Staff have trained in the Elklan and Comet Speech and Language Programmes. The school aims to develop children socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually and morally through a well-planned, broad and balanced curriculum which will enable children to learn through play and to have experiences which will encourage and stimulate the development of the child. The Nursery environment both indoors and our extensive outdoor area, offers security, challenge, progression, enjoyment and fun for young children. The school is committed to meeting the educational needs of each child and works closely with outside agencies e.g Speech Therapy, Educational Psychology, Senior Medical Officer etc. to meet these aims. St. Peter’s Nursery looks on Parents as Partners in the Education process and parents are always involved in the life of the school. The Extended Schools Programme offers an ‘Early Bird Club’ – 8.30am – 9.00am and After Schools Activities from 1.30pm – 3.00pm. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardians(s) reside in the Parishes of St Peter’s/St Mary’s. 142 Sub Criteria If the school is over-subscribed at any of the stages 1-2 above, the following sub-criteria will be applied. 1. Children who reside within the Parish of St Peter’s and St Mary’s who have named St Peter’s Nursery School as their first preference school will receive priority over other children who have not. 2. Children who reside within the Parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s with his/her parent(s)legal guardian(s) and have brother(s)/sister(s),half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) currently attending St Peter’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and year group) 3. Children who reside within the Parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s with his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) who have brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) who previously attended St Peter’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 4. Children who reside within the Parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s with his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) and are the eldest/first child in the family to apply. 5. Children who reside within the parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s with his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) and are deemed to have special educational needs will be considered by the Board of Governors. The Board of Governors will decide if a child should be considered under this criterion on the basis of evidence provided from assessment by Educational Psychologists, within the time scale available. The opinion of the Belfast Education and Library Board should be conveyed to the Board Governors by Special Education Section of the board. It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that all relevant documentation is forwarded to the governors at the time of application. 6. Children who reside outside the Parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s who have Brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) attending St. Peter’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and year group) 7. Children who reside outside the Parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s and have brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) who have previously attended St. Peter’s Nursery School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 8. All other children who reside outside the parish of St Peter’s/St Mary’s. If over-subscribed in any of the above sub-criteria taken in order – final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname in order set down below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. The order was determined by a randomised selection of letters of the alphabet made on 13 September 2013. K H Z P B A J W F R M Mc C E V U Y S Mac X L Q D O T N G I In the event of surnames with the same initial letter the subsequent letter of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. 143 In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the forename as registered on the birth certificate will be used. If places are still available after all pre-school children are placed, remaining places will be allocated to children in their penultimate pre-school year – ie children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 in accordance with: 1. 2. Chronological order – eldest first Children whose parents are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. Important Notice When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include: Name of siblings attending/previously attended St. Peter's Nursery School: Year of attendance Residency in St. Peter’s or St. Mary’s Parish Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after all applications for admissions to St. Peter's Nursery School for the year 2014-2015 which were: initially refused new applications late applications application with new additional information will all be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place from 30 May 2014 until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place by this method in St. Peter's Nursery School. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish to have your child’s name removed from the list. Duty to verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require any supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools admissions procedures can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application form. 144 ST TERESA’S NURSERY SCHOOL Maintained Co-Ed Nursery School BEARNAGH GLEN BELFAST BT11 8HR Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9061 6944 Principal: Mrs A Diamond St. Teresa’s Nursery School is a Catholic Maintained Co-Educational Nursery School situated in a quiet cul-de-sac of Bearnagh Drive in the Glen Road area of West Belfast. Opened in 1994, St. Teresa’s Nursery School is a purpose built nursery school traditionally catering for the needs of pre-school children in the Parish of St. Teresa. Our aim is to provide high quality nursery education in a just and caring environment where we will work together with Parents towards creating a trusting partnership between home, the school and the wider community. Our school has established close links with St. Teresa’s Primary School and most of the children attending the nursery transfer to St. Teresa’s Primary School. Parents are welcomed into the school and have opportunities during the school year to participate in school activities. A school newsletter keeps Parents well informed about aspects of the curriculum as well as school events. Additional Information about Nursery Throughout the year parents are invited to “Come to Play” sessions, when parents and children have the opportunity to play together in the nursery environment. There are also workshops and parents sessions organised to support the development of a range of child centred issues. The curriculum consists of a wide range of activities which are carefully planned to stimulate children’s learning and adapted to meet the needs of each child. St. Teresa’s Nursery School offers a wonderful stimulating and safe outdoor learning environment, where children can explore and develop natural curiosity. The school is staffed by a team of qualified teachers specialising in Nursery Education and NNEB qualified nursery assistants who are committed to work together to create an environment where each child is free to seek and achieve his/her fullest potential. In May 2011 the nursery school was inspected by Department of Education and received an Outstanding Report in all areas of Teaching, Learning and Pastoral Care. In May 2011, the nursery school was awarded the Eco Schools Green Flag in recognition for the promotion of Healthy Eating and Positive Healthy Lifestyle; Little Management and Recycling; The Development of Cultural Diversity and the Development of the Natural Environment. Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission will not be considered for places until all children who reside in Northern Ireland have been considered. 145 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors has determined that in the event of more applicants than places available, the following Admissions Criteria will be applied in the order set down to select children for the available places. The sub-criteria will be applied in the event of oversubscription in any of the statutory criteria. The Board of Governors delegates to the Principal and a Selection Committee the responsibility of applying the criteria. Such selection is then finally approved by the Board of Governors. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria 1. Children whose parent(s) legal guardian(s) is a permanent member of teaching/ancillary staff of St. Teresa’s Nursery School. 2 Children who reside within the Parish of St. Teresa’s and who have named St. Teresa’s Nursery School as their first preference school will receive priority over other children who have not. 3 Children who reside within the Parish of St. Teresa’s with his/her parent(s)/Legal guardian(s) and have brother(s)/sister(s),half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) currently attending St. Teresa’s Primary School or Nursery School. (Indicate name, year group and year of attendance). This will be verified by St. Teresa’s Primary School/Nursery School. 4 Children who reside within the Parish of St. Teresa’s with his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) and have brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) who previously attended St. Teresa’s Nursery School or Primary School. (Indicate name, year group and year of attendance) – This will be verified by St. Teresa’s Primary School/Nursery School. 5 Children who reside within the Parish of St. Teresa’s with his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) and do not have brother(s)/sister(s), half-brother(s)/half-sister(s) attending St. Teresa’s Primary School or Nursery School – this includes eldest/first child in the family to apply. 146 6. Children who reside within the parish of St. Teresa’s with his/her parent(s) legal guardian(s) and are deemed to have special educational needs will be considered by the Board of Governors. The Board of Governors will decide if a child should be considered under this criterion on the basis of evidence provided from assessment by educational psychologists, within the time scale available. The opinion of the Belfast Education and Library Board should be conveyed to the Board of Governors by Special Education section of the board. It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that all relevant documentation is forwarded to the governors at the time of application. 7. Children who reside outside the Parish of St. Teresa’s and have brother(s)/sister(s), halfbrother(s)/half-sister(s) currently attending St. Teresa’s Nursery School or Primary School. (Indicate name and year group) – This will be verified by St. Teresa’s Primary School/Nursery School. 8. Children who reside outside Parish of St. Teresa’s and whose brother(s)/sister(s)/halfbrother(s)/half-sister(s), have previously attended St. Teresa’s Nursery School/Primary School. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) – This will be verified by St. Teresa’s Primary school/Nursery School. 9. All Other children who reside outside of the Parish of St. Teresa’s. If over-subscribed in any of the above sub-criteria taken in order – final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname in order set down below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. The order was determined by a randomised selection of letters of the alphabet made on 4 September 2013 and agreed upon by Board of Governors in September 2013. W Q R T E U Y I O P Mc S D A H G F L K J Mac Z C V M B N X In the event of surnames with the same initial letter the subsequent letter of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the forename as registered on the birth certificate will be used. If places are still available after all pre-school children are placed i.e at end of stage 2 – remaining places will be allocated to children in their penultimate pre-school year – i.e children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 in accordance with: 1 Children residing in Parish of St Teresa’s. 2 Chronological order – eldest first. 3 Children whose parents are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. Important Notice When considering which children should be selected for admission – the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to application form. 147 Parents should ensure that all information relating to their child is included on the form and relates only to the admissions criteria – example of such information: - Name of siblings attending/previously attended Primary School/Nursery School - Year of attendance - Residency in Parish of St. Teresa’s Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after all applications for admissions to St. Teresa’s Nursery School for the year 2014-2015 which were: - initially refused - new applications - late applications - application with new additional information will all be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place from 30 May 2014 until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place by this method in St. Teresa’s Nursery School. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish to have your child’s name removed from the list. The Principal and Admissions Committee from the Board of Governors will be responsible for the allocation of remaining places in accordance with the schools Admission Criteria. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require any supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools admissions procedures can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 148 ST VINCENT DE PAUL PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT 167A LIGONIEL ROAD BELFAST BT14 8DP School Telephone No: 028 90717920 Nursery Telephone No: 028 9071 6673 Maintained School Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Email:[email protected] [email protected] Principal: Mrs Bronagh McVeigh Teacher in Charge: Mrs Mary McGrath St Vincent de Paul Nursery Unit is Catholic Maintained and is situated in the grounds of St Vincent de Paul Primary School which is on the Ligoniel Road. It is a single unit offering full-time nursery education to twenty-six children from 9.00am to 1.30pm. It has one nursery teacher and one nursery assistant. Its purpose is to serve the needs of pre-school children from St Vincent de Paul Parish. In the nursery we aim to provide a safe, caring and stimulating environment for the all round development of each child in a warm, happy and friendly atmosphere where children are given the opportunity to grow emotionally, spiritually, morally, physically and intellectually. Experienced staff are on hand to extend the children’s language and experiences by sharing in their play when appropriate. While the Nursery Unit is self contained with its own entrance and outdoor play area there is a connecting gate to the school. The children visit the school and join in suitable events during the year ensuring they are well prepared for the transition to primary school. At St Vincent de Paul we recognise the role parents have to play in their children’s education and they are encouraged to become fully involved in their child’s Nursery experience. Parents are invited to take part in school outings, classroom activities and parenting courses. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The following criteria will be used to allocate places in the Nursery Unit. Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of proposed admission. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who reside in the Parish of St Vincent de Paul. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 3 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) reside in the Parish of St Vincent de Paul. 4 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 from the Parish of St Vincent de Paul who are considered by an Education and Library Board as having significant special needs which indicate that the child would benefit from nursery education. (Documentary evidence must be submitted to the Board of Governors). 149 5 Other children of pre-school age from the Parish of St Vincent de Paul. 6 Other children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of more pupils satisfying the last criterion which can be applied, then selection for the remaining places will be on the basis of the following sub-criteria: a) Preference will be given to children who have had their penultimate year in this nursery. b) Preference will be given to children who have attended St Vincent de Paul Playgroup. c) Preference will be given to children who have listed this nursery as their first preference. d) Preference will be given to children whose parents are members of the permanent teaching staff or permanent assistants. e) Preference will be given to children who already have or have had a brother/half brother or sister/half sister attending St Vincent de Paul Primary School/Nursery Unit. (Indicate name, year group and date of attendance) f) Preference will be given to children whose permanent residence is the shortest distance from the school. Distance will be measured by a straight line on the Ordinance Survey Map from the front of the child’s home to the front door of the school. 7 Children born between 2 July 2011 – 1 July 2012 will be considered on the basis of rank order of age – oldest first. Parents are advised that it is their responsibility to ensure that their application form is fully completed with all relevant details (eg if child is first/only in family, if they had a sibling attend the school) to enable the above criteria to be applied. Where applications are made on the basis of Income Support/Income Based Jobseekers Allowance, the relevant section MUST be completed and stamped by the Social Security Agency. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Vincent De Paul Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 150 STANHOPE STREET NURSERY SCHOOL STANHOPE DRIVE CARRICK HILL BELFAST BT13 1BX Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9032 4748 Fax No: 028 90247915 Principal: Miss K E Timmons BEd (Hons) MEd Stanhope Street Nursery School is purpose built and located in Carrick Hill, off Clifton Street and within close proximity to the City Centre. The school grounds have been laid out in tarmac, grass, trees, shrubs and herb beds, thus providing opportunities for a perception of nature and the immediate environment. Within the building, we have a welcoming parent’s area and well-equipped playrooms, with adjacent toilet blocks and quiet rooms. Canopy areas with safety surfaces off each classroom enable the children to participate in outdoor physical play during inclement weather. The enrolment figure for this school is 52 with all children attending a full day session. Nursery hours: 9.00 am to 1.30 pm. The entrance and exits of the school have been adapted to facilitate wheelchair access. We also have toilet facilities to accommodate disabled children. Our school is a happy relaxed area, which fosters a caring ethos in which children develop, parents are welcome and work in partnership with our staff. We aim to provide a safe, secure and happy learning environment, which enables children to develop to their full potential. Play is the principal means of learning in early childhood so we provide opportunities to explore and experiment through challenging progressive activities. We aim to give children the best advantage in learning early literacy, mathematical concepts, scientific and technological ideas. Creative imaginative and musical activities form an important part of their daily experiences. Through staff expertise, guidance and praise, children are encouraged to develop self-esteem, confidence and independence. Both the principal and class teacher have been trained in “Primary Movement”. We can now offer these exercises to all of the children. This school encourages parents to participate in activities, which contribute to the life of the school, including school outings. Close links with the local community have been established and visitors with additional expertise are welcome within the nursery school. Close pastoral links have been established with the local primary schools. We are committed to Schools Community Relations Programme and enjoy regular outings throughout the term. We believe the skills learned in our nursery school provide a firm foundation for future learning. 151 Parents who are considering an application to this school may make arrangements with the principal to view the school. Preferably the arrangements should be made before 9.00 am or after 2.00 pm. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria The Board of Governors will consider all applications and in the case of over-subscription, the following criteria will apply. a b c d e Preference will be given to children who have listed this nursery as their first preference. Preference will be given to children living within the Carrick Hill Community. Preference will be given to children who have had their penultimate year in this nursery. Preference will be given to children whose brother(s)/sister(s) or half brother(s)/half sister(s) have attended or currently attend this school. (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance) In the event of over-subscription, at this stage, then selection will be: In the event of there being more applicants than places remaining for the last sub-criteria which can be applied, then selection will be on the basis of a randomized computer selection of letters of the alphabet. First by surname and then by Christian/forename in the order listed on the birth certificate. In the event of two children having the same surname and Christian/forename a computerized random selection ‘tie-breaker’ will be applied. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 will be considered on the basis of rank order of age – eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Stanhope Street Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 152 STRANMILLIS PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT KNIGHTSBRIDGE PARK BELFAST BT9 5EH Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Part-time Telephone No: 028 9038 1164 Fax No: 028 9066 4137 E-mail: [email protected] www.stranmillisprimary.org Principal: Mr Jackie Wallace There has been a purpose-built nursery unit in Stranmillis for over thirty years and as it is normally the first contact that families have with our school, it represents a vital link with home. Our nursery is extremely important in helping to create the caring and welcoming ethos that characterises the whole school. In recent years a high proportion of children transfer to P1 in Stranmillis from our nursery. Our dual day operates from 8.50 to 11:30 am and from 12:30 to 3:00 pm. Both classes are normally oversubscribed and preference is given to first preference applications. The nursery class has recently been refurbished and the outdoor play facilities are excellent. The active involvement of parents is a very strong feature of our nursery and adds greatly to the experiences and learning opportunities that are provided by Mrs Nicola Cruickshank, the specialist nursery teacher and Mrs Una Crozier, her nursery assistant. Criteria for admission to the Nursery Unit in compliance with the 1999 legalisation Twenty-six children will be admitted to the morning session and twenty-six other children will be admitted to the afternoon session. The criteria set out below will be used in successive order to allocate all 52 nursery places. The Board of Governors has delegated to the Principal its function and responsibilities in relation to the application of the criteria and the admission of pupils to the nursery unit. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. (i) children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their final pre-school year; (ii) children not falling within sub-paragraph (i) who are in their final pre-school year; (iii) children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who will be aged 3 before 1 September in their penultimate pre-school year; (iv) children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who will be aged 2 before 1 September in their penultimate pre-school year; 153 (v) children not falling within sub-paragraph (v) or (vi) who will be aged 3 before 1 September in their penultimate pre-school year; (vi) children not falling within sub-paragraph (v) or (vi) who will be aged two before 1 September in their penultimate pre-school year; and who at the time of their proposed admission will not have a pre-school education place whether full-time or part-time at another school or any other premises. NOTE: When parents apply for places for their child on this basis (socially disadvantaged circumstances*) they should produce one of the following documents:(i) an Income Support Order Book with their name and address printed on the front cover; (ii) a Social Security Agency Form JSA 260 or a recent letter of entitlement from a social security office confirming the parents entitlement. Board of Governors will retain a photocopy of the relevant information for record purposes. In the event that the nursery is over-subscribed at any point in (i) - (viii) then the following subset of criteria will apply at that point. Criteria will be applied successively in the following order: 1 Children for whom Stranmillis Nursery is first preference. 2 Children of permanent teachers; classroom assistants and nursery assistants of Stranmillis Primary School. 3 Children who have a sibling (including half-brothers, half-sisters, step-brothers, stepsisters, foster brothers and/or foster sisters enrolled in Stranmillis Primary School including the Nursery Unit on the BELB application deadline date. (Indicate name and year group) 4 Children who have had a sibling enrolled in Stranmillis Primary School including the Nursery Unit. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) 5 Children in the order of closest proximity of the school to the child’s permanent place of residence at the time of nursery admission. Proximity to the school will be determined by direct straight line measurement between the child’s residence and the school; measurements are calculated by a web-based method provided by the Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland. The Board of Governors may require such documentary proof of a child’s permanent residence as the Board in its absolute discretion considers appropriate. At the time of application parents are asked to state if they have a preference between a morning and afternoon place. While the school will endeavour to facilitate preference this may not always be possible. Parents are therefore advised to indicate whether the preference is a strong one and, if so, state the reason. In allocating children to am/pm classes the school will take into account a range of factors. A list of these factors is available on request. Please note that the admissions criteria will be applied before morning or afternoon preference is taken into account. 154 “Applicants should note that where an address contained within an application qualifies a child for admission then that address will be verified. To enable the Board of Governors to verify addresses, all applicants should provide any two of the following four documents with their application: A bank or building society statement which shows the address at which the child is resident; A utility bill (for instance electricity, gas, television licence, telephone) which shows the address at which the child is resident; A letter awarding child benefit to the child or another letter relating to this benefit; The child’s medical card. This is in addition to the standard requirement to provide a Birth Certificate in order to verify the age of the child. Original documents are required and not facsimiles or photocopies. Original documents can be returned on request at the end of the admissions process by the school to which the child has been admitted. Applicants preferring not to put verifying documents in the post or seeking alternative verifying arrangements should contact those schools listed on their application form that require verifying documents to agree alternative verification arrangements. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Stranmillis Nursery Unit, that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 155 TAUGHMONAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT FINDON GARDENS BELFAST BT9 6QL Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9066 9698 Principal: Mrs J Douds BEd DASE The Nursery at Taughmonagh Primary School is a two-class unit, which operates on a full day basis. In November 2012 the nursery moved into a new State of the Art Nursery School which is equipped with the latest resources. In total fifty-two children can be accommodated and they are staffed by two teachers and two nursery assistants. The unit is situated in the grounds of Taughmonagh Primary School (access via Findon Gardens or from Harberton Park along the driveway between Glenveagh and the old Harberton School). This location has the benefit of allowing the nursery children to avail of the main school resources such as the computer suite/PE hall and throughout the year they will be brought over to take part in special events. The nursery aims to promote active learning through play. Opportunities are provided for each child to grow in self-confidence and develop a positive attitude towards play, learning and education. Through play we aim to meet the physical, social, emotional and cognitive needs of the child at their particular stage of development. To ensure each child is making progress, staff keep comprehensive records detailing development throughout the year. Educational trips and outings to places of interest are considered important in the nursery – a number of trips are organised throughout the year. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The criteria below will be used by the Principal on behalf of the Board of Governors to determine admissions to the 52 places available in the Nursery Unit. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of the nursery unit being oversubscribed, the following sub-criteria will be applied in order of priority at whichever point (1-2 above) over-subscription occurs: 156 a Special Circumstances If special consideration is sought in respect of any child’s application, the Board of Governors may in its absolute discretion, after considering any written information in support of the application and agree to admit that child where it considers that a refusal would cause particular hardship to the health or welfare of the child. b Family Connection i Children who have a brother/sister attending Taughmonagh Primary School/Unit (Indicate name and year group) ii Children whose parent/guardian is a permanent employee of Taughmonagh Primary School. c Children who reside within the Taughmonagh or Suffolk communities. d Children who have listed Taughmonagh Nursery Unit as their first choice. e Residence within a reasonable walking distance of the school (as indicated by the area bounded by the Upper Lisburn Road, Balmoral Avenue, Malone/Upper Malone Road and Finaghy Road South but including the Dub Lane and Fairway Avenue area). f Children who live in the area outside that designated at (e) above*. * Should applications still exceed the maximum intake number, criteria e and f will be applied on a nearest the school basis. (Such places to be awarded on a proximity basis as determined by straight line measurement between the main gate of the school and the front entrance of the child’s home.) 3 Any remaining places will be allocated on the basis of eldest first. The admissions policy above will be implemented by the Principal on behalf of the Governing body of Taughmonagh Primary School. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Taughmonagh Nursery Unit which were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 157 TUDOR LODGE NURSERY SCHOOL TUDOR PLACE BELFAST BT13 1LY Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 52 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9035 1684 Fax No: 028 90751145 Website: www.tudorlodgenursery.co.uk Email:[email protected] Principal: Mrs D A Murdoch MEd, BEd, DASE, PQH (NI) Tudor Lodge Nursery School first opened its doors under the BELB in 1956 in the ‘Big House’ which was formerly a ladies laundry and then a nursery school run by Ewarts Mill. In 1977 it was replaced by a new purpose built school. Today we are still proud to be an integral part of the lower Crumlin Road community in our new state of the art building which was opened in 2004. The school staff, all of whom have qualifications in early years, use their expertise to create a safe and secure yet relaxed, happy and caring environment where the children through play can develop each to their own individual potential. Parents are always welcomed into school and are encouraged to take an active part in the child’s education and various social events. In partnership with parents we aim to help children to form relationships with others promoting self-confidence, consideration and respect. This year we are able to offer parents ‘The Incredible Years’ programme which benefits both parents and children. We have a very enthusiastic parent worker who will organise events for parents throughout the year. Supporting the staff in their aims we have our caretaker, secretary, dining attendant and active Board of Governors. Our curriculum is carefully planned taking account of the development of the whole child, using a wide range of materials and resources and progressive experiences. We are currently involved in the Comet Language Programme and have staff who are trained to help with speech difficulties. Indoor activities will be further enhanced with the addition of landscaped grounds and extensive outdoor equipment providing opportunities for physical development and encouraging an awareness of growth and living things around us. Throughout the year we arrange Educational outings and invite many visitors to talk to both parents and children. We also take part in community activities and fundraising for charity and have close links with the local primary schools. Since 1991 our school has worked closely with Our Lady’s Nursery School allowing parents and children from both communities to participate in joint events and trips in order to promote greater mutual understanding. We have also taken part in the Comenius Programme adding a European dimension. 158 School is opened each day from 8.15am - 3.30pm actual teaching time is 8.45am - 1.30pm. We now also have the “Early Birds Breakfast Club” operating from 8.15am – 8.45am in the mornings and the “Little Acorns” afterschool club Monday – Thursday 1.30 – 3.00pm. For 6 weeks in July we run a summer club for children who have attended our nursery during the year. Any prospective parents who would like to visit the school will be made very welcome. Please contact the Principal to arrange a suitable time. A full prospectus is available for anyone who wishes to contact the school or on the school website. We have an open afternoon on Monday 16 December 2013 at 1.00pm. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. If oversubscribed at 1- 2 the following sub-criteria will apply: a Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is presently a permanent member of school staff. b Children who have/had siblings or half-siblings attending/attended Tudor Lodge. (Indicate name and date of attendance) c Children who have stated Tudor Lodge Nursery as their first preference. d Children who have had parents who attended Tudor Lodge. (Indicate name and date of attendance) e Twins or multiple births. f Children whose parent(s)/guardian(s) home address is closest to the school, from front door of residence to front door of nursery school as measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map. In the event of two or more children’s permanent residence being measured equal distance for the final place, children will be selected by alphabetical order of initial letter of surname. (As used in the telephone directory) 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. Priority will be given to the oldest children in this category. Those children born on the same day sub-criterion c will apply for final selection. 159 After Friday 30 May 2014 any parent whose child was not offered a place will be contacted to see if they wish to remain on our waiting list. New applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied to fill a vacancy. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Parents will be contacted in writing if your child gains a place by this method. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 160 VICTORIA NURSERY SCHOOL VICTORIA PARADE BELFAST BT15 2EN Controlled Nursery School Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9074 4247 [email protected] Principal: Valerie O’Brien B.Ed (Hons), M.Ed. PQHNI Victoria Nursery School was established in 1969. This purpose built nursery school is situated in Victoria Parade, off North Queen Street and within close proximity to the city centre. The school is a bright, modern, spacious well maintained building, fully equipped and resourced. There is an outdoor play area, partially covered, comprising grass, a sensory flowerbed, tarmac and safety surfacing. We aim to provide a happy, relaxed, safe and challenging learning environment, where children are motivated to develop skills and attitudes at their own pace. Each child is recognised as unique and our experienced staff will ensure that each child has opportunities to develop to his or her full potential. Our broad and balanced curriculum provides opportunities for exploration and experimentation through provision of carefully planned play activities, thus enabling children to experience success, develop self-confidence and a positive self-image. Parents are welcomed, and through daily contact with staff, information is freely shared. Opportunities to become involved in the life of this school are encouraged through playroom based activities, a parenting programme, frequent school outings, fundraising events and social occasions. Over the last 40 years we have established a strong network of family loyalty and community spirit, which continues today. The maximum enrolment number is 26 full-time places. The children attend from 9.00 am to 1.30 pm each day. Any parent wishing to apply for a place in this school will be made welcome. Please contact the principal at the above address or telephone number to arrange an appointment, preferably after 1.30 pm. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Board of Governors of Victoria Nursery School will apply the following criteria in order of priority as imposed by DE in allocating places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 161 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-criteria In the event of this school being over-subscribed in any of the above the following criteria will be applied: (a) Children whose permanent residence is the shortest distance from the school. Distance will be measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home or guardian’s home, to the front door of the nursery school. (b) Children whose brother/sister have attended or currently attend this school. (Indicate name and dates of attendance) Should the application of criteria and sub-criteria above fail to meet the schools enrolment quota, then children in their penultimate pre-school year, in rank of age – oldest first will be admitted first. Those children born on the same day ie sub-criteria (a) will be selected. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Victoria Nursery School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 162 WHEATFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY UNIT ALLIANCE AVENUE BELFAST BT14 7JE Controlled Nursery Unit Enrolment No: 26 Full-time Telephone No: 028 9071 9824 Principal: Mr J Waugh M.B.E. Wheatfield Nursery Unit is situated in the grounds of Wheatfield Primary School, which occupies a large site at the corner of Ardoyne Road and Alliance Road. It is a single unit offering full-time nursery education to 26 children with one nursery teacher and one nursery assistant. Parents are always welcome in the nursery. We see the nursery as an extension of the child’s home environment and share with the parents the responsibility of helping each child develop their full potential. Opportunities for learning are provided to encourage this development. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who are in their immediate pre-school year (ie born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011). *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. 3 Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012. N.B Please remember that children who attended the nursery in their penultimate preschool year must re-apply for their second year Sub-criteria:In the event of over-subscription in any of the criteria, taken in order, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down. A Children who attended the nursery in their penultimate pre-school year. B Children who have Wheatfield Nursery Unit listed as their first preference. C Children who have/have had siblings enrolled in Wheatfield Primary School (P1 to P7). (Indicate name, year group and dates of attendance. 163 D Parents’/guardians’ homes closest to Nursery. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement from the front of the child’s home at the time of application, to the entrance to the nursery. Measurement will be generated electronically using the Ordnance Survey website. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Wheatfield Nursery Unit that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child has brothers or sisters attending the school. Duty to Verify The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any Application Form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s Application Form. 164 Alphabetical Index Name of Voluntary and Private Providers Page No Belmont Playgroup 167 Benmore Playgroup 170 Carew II Family and Training 172 Cranmore Integrated Playgroup 175 Early Learners Day Nursery 179 First Steps Playgroup 181 Flutterbies Playgroup 183 Forge Integrated Playgroup 185 Hillcrest Day Nursery 188 Holy Cross Pre-School Playgroup 190 Kids @BT9 192 Little Hands Little Feet Day Nursery 194 Malone Playschool/Nursery School 197 Naíscoil Mhic Reachtain 200 Naíscoil An Lonnáin 203 Naiscoil na Mona 205 Our Lady’s Playgroup 207 Play & Learn Playgroup 209 Resurrection Nursery & Playgroup 211 St Colmcille’s Pre-School Playgroup 213 St John’s Pre-School Playgroup 216 St Oliver Plunkett Pre-School Playgroup 218 St Vincent de Paul Pre-School 220 165 Springfield Primary Playgroup 222 Springhill Playgroup 224 Stepping Stones Playgroup 226 Sunshine Playgroup 228 T.L.C Nursery 230 The 174 Trust Playgroup 231 Wee Care Day Nursery 233 Wishing Well Family Centre 235 166 BELMONT PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 215 BELMONT ROAD BELFAST BT4 2AG Telephone No: 02890 671050 Pre-School Leader: Hannah Nelson, Louise McSherry Email : [email protected] Belmont Pre-school playgroup is located in a new building in Belmont Primary School Grounds. Belmont Playgroup has been in operation since 1965 and through development of the Playcare Centre in September 2009 an afternoon pre-school session was introduced. The sessions are organised to provide a variety of play opportunities to enable the children to learn through play. Aims We aim to create an environment which is inclusive regardless of age, which encourages development through a range of age appropriate activities, helping children to grow in confidence and to build self-esteem. We aim to work in partnership with parents recognising that you are the first educators of your child. We also aim to provide the highest possible standard of childcare where each individual child achieves the greatest level of personal development that he/she is capable of. We create a caring and organized environment where each child will feel happy and secure. This together with the many skills they will acquire during the time in pre-school will mean that the transition to school will be as effortless as possible. They will also have a familiar and varied routine, enabling them to cope more readily with the school day. The Pre-school consists of a large, bright playroom, which has resources covering the curriculum and progression throughout the year. There is a “quiet area” for story time and a large covered outdoor play area which has been developed to offer more play and learning opportunities. All places offered will be on a part-time basis from 9.00am-11.45am or 12.30pm–3.15pm each day. The staff team consists of a Leader, Deputy Leader and Assistant (all qualified to at least NVQ 3 level), all with considerable pre-school experience. The staff to child ratio is at least 1:8. The children wear a comfortable uniform consisting of a jumper, polo shirt and jogging bottoms. A small weekly donation is collected from parents to cover break. Belmont Pre-school follows the curriculum which divides children’s learning and development into 6 areas, as listed below: Personal, social and emotional development; Communication, language and literacy development; Mathematical development; Knowledge and understanding of the world including early science and technology; 167 Physical development; and Creative development The overall aim of the curriculum throughout the pre-school year is to help each individual child develop and master skills. Play helps young children to learn and develop through doing and talking, which research has shown to be the means by which young children think. Preschool uses yearly aims and their weekly plans to provide a range of play activities which help children to make progress in each of the areas of learning and development. The children have opportunities to play independently and take part in small group, large group and one-toone play. Children are assigned to a key worker; this enables us to plan specifically to each individual child’s needs and interests. To support staff, we receive advice and guidance from independent early years specialists as well as our active management committee. Special Needs We welcome children with special needs and will work with parents and outside agencies to meet the needs of each child within our setting. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. We allocate places under the following criteria; 1. Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year. 2. Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: (a) Children who have listed Belmont Pre-School as first preference. (b) Children whose parent is a staff member of Belmont Playcare. (c) Children currently attend the playgroup and who have siblings who attended the preschool. (d) Children currently attending Belmont Playgroup. (e) Children who have a sibling attending the pre-school or playgroup. (f) Children who have a sibling who attended the pre-school or playgroup. (g) Children who have a sibling attending Belmont Primary School. (h) Eldest child in the family. If oversubscribed at any criteria, final selection will be on the basis of proximity of the child’s home address to the pre-school. Preference will be given to those who live closest to the preschool. 168 Waiting List Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the above criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Belmont Pre-school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 169 BENMORE PLAYGROUP FINAGHY PRIMARY CAMPUS 38 FINAGHY ROAD SOUTH BELFAST BT10 0DR Telephone No: 02890 308677 Playgroup Leader: Lisa Johnston Benmore Playgroup has been in operation since 1980. It is now situated in a new purpose built building in Finaghy Primary Campus. Indoors comprises of a large bright playroom and a quiet area for story time. Outdoors there is a covered play area with a safety surface, large sand and barked areas, playhouse and a range of natural play resources. The Playgroup also has regular access to Finaghy Library, Finaghy Primary Sports Zone and has regular visits to the Primary School to help prepare children for the transition to P1. Aims We aim to provide a safe, caring, stimulating and inclusive environment for the children in our care. We operate a key worker system with each staff member responsible for 8 children. This enables us to monitior children’s needs and plan for their progress on an individual basis. Benmore Playgroup provides a range of play activities that will promote learning and development in the six areas of the curriculum: • • • • • • Personal, social and emotional development Physical development Language development Early mathematical development The Arts The world around us Staffing and Qualifications Benmore Playgroup has 3 members of staff: Playgroup Leader – NNEB, Advanced Diploma in Childcare & Education, currently completing Level 5 Diploma in Leadership in Children’s care, learning and development. Playgroup Assistant – NVQ Level 2 and NVQ Level 3 in Children’s Care, learning and development. Playgroup Assistant – NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, learning and development, Makaton Certificate. All staff hold first aid qualifications and have participated in child protection training. Staff regularly attend training provided by the Early Years Organisation and other agencies. 170 Opening Hours The Playgroup operates 5 mornings per week term time, Monday to Friday 9am to 12 noon. Special Needs We welcome children with special needs and will work in partnership with parents and outside agencies to meet the needs of each child within our setting. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: 1 Children who have a committee member or staff member or committed regular volunteer as a parent/guardian. 2 Children who have a sibling attending or who have previously attended the playgroup 3 Children who have a sibling attending Finaghy Primary School. 4 Children referred by Social Services. 5 Children are admitted in order of age (Eldest first) 6 Children who list Benmore Playgroup as a first preference. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Benmore Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 171 CAREW II FAMILY AND TRAINING CENTRE LITTLE DUCKS PRE-SCHOOL 15 TAMAR STREET BELFAST BT4 1HS Telephone No: 028 9045 1730 Fax No: 028 9046 0882 Opening Times Monday to Friday - 9:30 am - 1:15 pm. Playgroup Leader: Kara Waddell Aims We aim to provide a safe and stimulating environment which will meet the needs of all children and to encourage development and growth around the six areas of the curriculum. We also recognise the importance and the value of working alongside parents/carers in order to provide for the best interests for the child. Curriculum All learning activities will be carried out in a fun, play environment which will offer maximum opportunities for progression. The curriculum will be presented over six main areas of learning, which will be planned to ensure that all children’s needs are met to provide a steady foundation for further development • Personal, social and emotional skills • Physical development • Early language literacy • Early mathematical/science skills • Creative and aesthetic development • Knowledge and understanding of the world The curriculum will be implemented throughout the daily routine, using a wide variety of activities. This will encourage children to become more independent, build confidence, raise self-esteem and learn through play. Policies All of our policies have been drawn up with the best interests of the users of the centre at heart. Our child protection policy statement and a list of all policies of the centre are included in our information sheet. A copy of the policy document is available upon written request. Policies and procedures are reviewed on a regular basis. Costs £5.00 per week for snack and refreshment. Special Needs Policy Where a child has been identified as having special needs/requirements by either a parent/guardian or health care professional we will endeavour to meet these needs. Resources will dictate the ability of the centre to offer services to a child or children and provision will be based on the following: 172 • • • • An assessment of the child’s needs will be carried out by a health professional, either organised directly by the parent or a health professional or by a carer The additional resources needed to provide a service to that child have been assessed. These additional resources have been obtained/secured through working with the health professional or other agency. Where we do accept a child with special needs/requirements there will be an agreement with the parent/guardian to follow guidelines which differ from our usual procedures in relation to toileting, feeding, physical - craft - learning - and developmental activities with that particular child. Additional Information Carew II Little Ducks Pre-School has been selected to take part in an Early Years Project funded by the Department of Education. The Early Years Inclusion Team (EYIT) has been set up as a result of this project. The Team includes Specialist Teachers, an Educational Psychologist, Health Professionals, Children’s Interdisciplinary Schools Team (CIDS) and Classroom Assistants. The EYIT will be supporting Little Ducks Pre-School in house providing training and accepting referrals from staff for children they feel require or would benefit from additional support. Following assessment Pre-School staff and the EYIT can identify and provide the most suitable method of support for the child. Parents/Guardians will be consulted and kept informed throughout this entire process.. Carew II Little Ducks Pre-School participate and fully support The Media Initiative Respecting Differences Project. Little Ducks have been partnered with Short Strand playgroup for the past few years and have enjoyed joint parent workshops, venue visits and outings. We look forward to continuing this partnership into the future. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The undernoted admissions criteria will be applied in allocating places funded under the PreSchool Education Expansion Programme: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year; 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If there are more applications for places which satisfy the above criteria than the number of places available then the sub-criteria below will be applied: a. Children who have attended the Little Owls Playgroup b. Children who have a committee member, staff member or committed regular volunteer as a parent/guardian 173 c. Children who have listed Little Ducks as first preference d. Children who are referred by social services or other statutory or voluntary organisation e. Children who have a sibling attending or who have recently attended the playgroup or pre-school f. Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Carew II that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. 174 CRANMORE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 47 FINAGHY ROAD NORTH BELFAST BT10 0JB Telephone No: 028 9066 4410 Principal: Mr W Doherty B Ed. Playgroup Leader: Miss S McCrudden BA. Hours of opening: Monday – Friday 9:00am – 12:15pm Cranmore Integrated Primary School Playgroup is an integral part of the primary school and prides itself on the warm and welcoming environment for both children and parents. The inclusive ethos of the Playgroup ensures that children have opportunities to learn and play together irrespective of social, religious or cultural background. It is situated in a purpose-built double unit in the quiet, secluded grounds of the primary school and has close links with it. The playgroup aims to provide quality pre-school education in a planned integrated setting using a child-centred philosophy and promoting high levels of parental involvement. We aim to provide a safe, happy and secure environment in which children feel comfortable to develop their unique personalities and abilities. Curriculum In the Playgroup children are given a wide range of activities so that they can learn happily through play within a carefully planned programme suitable for the children’s needs in their pre-school year. The children experience planned activities within the early years curriculum in: Personal, Social and Emotional Development Physical Development Language Development Early Mathematical Development The Arts The World Around Us The curriculum also provides opportunities for the children to use the primary school hall for large equipment activities twice weekly. Visits to the park, farm etc are planned and visitors talk to the children whenever the monthly theme is enhanced by this experience. Special Needs Children with special needs, like all other children, are welcome and admitted to pre-school after consultation between parents and the Principal in line with the Admissions Policy. 175 Our system of observation and record keeping helps us monitor children’s needs and helps us to ensure that planning reflects progression in play. Our key wonder system means that one adult is responsible for a small number of the children and so they receive more adult time and attention. If it is felt that a child’s needs cannot be met in the playgroup without the support of a one-to-one worker steps may be taken to gain any appropriate funding that will ensure adequate levels of support. We work in liaison with staff outside the group including therapists, health visitors, psychologists, social workers and paediatricians to meet children’s needs. Playgroup Staff Playgroup Leader Miss S McCrudden BA Hons in Early Childhood Studies Playgroup Deputy Miss S McLean NVQ3 in Early Years Care and Education Playgroup Assistant Mrs N Fitzsimons NVQ3 in Early Years Care and Education All staff are first aid trained and regularly update their training by attending EYO and BELB courses in a wide variety of topics including Child Protection. Settling in In Cranmore Integrated Primary School Playgroup we want children to feel safe and happy in the absence of their parents; to recognize other adults as a source of authority, help and friendship and to be able to share with their parents the new learning experience which they enjoy in the pre-school. Going to playgroup is a big step in the life of any child and so we want the early days at playgroup to be a happy experience. We expect parents or the child’s main carer to be involved in the settling-in period. The introduction to playgroup is gradual to allow the child to become familiar and feel secure with the new adults and surroundings. Admissions Criteria The Board of Governors of Cranmore Integrated Primary School has drawn up the Playgroup’s Admissions Criteria. It has delegated to the Principal and Admissions SubCommittee its function in relation to the application of these criteria. The criteria are designed to ensure that there is a reasonable balance between the numbers of children from the two main cultural traditions in Northern Ireland and whose admissions to Cranmore Integrated Primary School Playgroup will maintain a ratio of 45% Catholic 45% Protestant and 10% of children from other religious backgrounds and/or none in any intake year. The following criteria will therefore be applied to each category as declared on the Pupil Information Form. 176 *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. In the event of the school being over-subscribed, the Admissions Sub-Committee will list all applicants in order of priority by selecting those who fall into the following categories in the order set out below: 1 2 Children in their final pre-school year whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub-Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criterion exceed the number of funded place available, the following sub-criteria will be applied: a b c d e Children who have a brother/sister, half-brother/sister already enrolled in Cranmore Integrated Primary School. Children whose parents/guardians are presently permanent members of Cranmore Integrated Primary School staff and/or Board of Governors. Children who are the eldest child in the family. Children who are considered by the Admissions Sub-Committee to be deserving of special consideration on the basis of special medical, personal or social circumstances where this is supported by evidence from parent and statutory agency and whose admission is not incompatible with the provision of efficient education for other children. All other children who are in their final pre-school year. If over-subscribed in any of the above criteria, taken in order, final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname in the order set out below. The surname used will be as registered on the birth certificate or as subsequently legally changed and documented. KZJWXBAMTCDEVFGILNPSUQRYHO The order was determined by a randomized selection of letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of 2 identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initial letter of the first forenames as registered on the birth certificate will be used. In the event of first forenames beginning with the same letter the subsequent letter of the forename will be used. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to our admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include, whether the child is the eldest child, or has brothers or sisters who are attending the school. 177 Waiting List Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the above criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Cranmore Integrated Primary School will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting through the Primary School office if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 178 EARLY LEARNERS DAY NURSERY 30 WINDSOR AVENUE BELFAST BT9 6EJ Telephone No: 028 9068 2632 Nursery Leader: Jane McGuckian Our Aims To provide a safe and stimulating environment which meets the needs of all children To provide a happy and relaxed atmosphere which promotes good relationships between children, staff and parents. To promote development through the broad and balanced curriculum which will enable all children to reach their full potential. Curriculum Our theme-based curriculum has been carefully planned and is regularly reviewed to ensure all children have access to a wide range of stimulating play activities. We aim to offer activities which promote learning in the six areas of development outlined within “Curriculum Guidance for Pre-School Education”. • • • • • • Personal, Social and Emotional Development Physical Development Language Development Early Mathematical Development The Arts The World Around Us The staff consists of a dedicated and committed team of professionals who realize and value the importance of play in the child’s development. They observe, monitor and record the progress of the children as they develop throughout the year. We regard parents as partners in the education of their children and we aim to support them in any way we can. Regular opportunities are provided for parents to discuss their child’s progress. Parents are also welcome to accompany us on any educational visits taking place throughout the year. Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 12:30 pm (9am – 11:30am Funded) 9.00 am to 1.45pm (optional) Staff and Qualifications Our staff comprises of 4 full-time members with the following qualifications NVQ3 NNEB 179 1 NNEB1 NIPPA Diploma Special Needs Policy At Early Learners, we believe that all children should be given support to achieve their educational potential within the curriculum. We welcome children with special needs and will work with parents and outside agencies to meet the needs of each child within our setting. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The undernoted admissions criteria will be applied in allocating the places created under the Pre-school Education Expansion Programme. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. (1) Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year; (2) Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Should there be more applications than free places available, Early Learners will apply the following criteria in order: Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: (a) Children who are currently attending Early Learners Day Nursery. (b) Other children in their immediate pre-school year. (c) Children with special needs aged 3 years and over. (d) Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age- Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Early Learners that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 180 FIRST STEPS PLAYGROUP HORN DRIVE COMMUNITY CENTRE 44a HORN DRIVE BELFAST Telephone No: 07842669938 Playgroup Leader : Anne Robinson Aims of the Playgroup Playgroup staff aim to offer children the opportunity to interact with their peers, form friendships and play in a safe and caring environment. Our role in the playgroup is to provide opportunities, experiences and resources which enable children to develop at their own pace and in accordance with their needs. Opening Times AM. Session PM. Session Monday – Friday Monday – Friday 9:30am – 12noon 1:00pm – 3.30pm Staffing There are three permanent qualified members of staff in each session with a ratio of 1:5. Curriculum The planned curriculum follows the Curricular Guidance for Pre-School Education as recommended by the Department of Education. We aim to provide a varied curriculum which takes account of the fact that young children develop rapidly during their early years and learn at different rates. Therefore we plan and provide accordingly so that all children can develop at their own pace. Special Needs Children with additional needs are included in the group. We work with parents and relevant agencies to ensure the needs of each child are met. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The following criteria will be applied in the allocation of places. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 181 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a. Children who attended the playgroup the previous year b. Children who have had siblings attending the playgroup c. Children registered with First Steps Parent & Toddler Group d. Children from new families in the area e. Children referred by other agencies f. Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age- Eldest first. Waiting List Policy First Steps Early Years Group is a committed provider of equal opportunities, and supports the local community by providing access to our setting regardless of religion, disability, linguistic needs, sexual orientation, gender or age. We ensure the setting is genuinely accessible and families from all sections of the community. We do this by operating a waiting list and should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 182 FLUTTERBIES PLAYGROUP THE CENTRE 28-30 CREGAGH ROAD BELFAST BT6 9EQ Telephone No: 02890 457564 Playgroup Leader: Mrs Jacqueline McKechnie Flutterbies is located in The Centre, the community initiative project of Cregagh Methodist Church. We are members of The Early Years Organisation and are registered with and monitored by The Early Years Team at Belfast Trust. The Centre has a committed Management Committee, responsible for supporting staff and ensuring the Playgroup complies with necessary legislation. Places are offered on a part-time from 9.15am to 12.15pm Monday to Friday. We have three members of staff all qualified to NVQ Level 3 in Early Years Childcare and Education. Our adult child ratio is 1:8 ensuring that each child gets the individual care and attention they need to make this a happy and lasting first experience of learning in a formal environment. A small weekly donation is collected from parents to cover our morning snack. Aims Our aim is to prepare children for school and life in general in a happy, safe and friendly environment. We encourage development through a range of age-appropriate activities and equipment. We aim to work in partnership with parents, the child’s first educator. We believe all children should be given opportunities to grow in self-confidence by developing at their own rate through challenging progressive play. Flutterbies provides a stimulating and child centred environment. We understand and value the importance of play in the development of young children as they learn about the world in which they live. At Flutterbies we offer a free-flow system that enables children to control their own learning and meet their personal needs with greater independence. Children are able to mix with their entire peer group during each session. We provide opportunities for children to challenge their curiosity and foster independence. Our playroom is set out to encourage children to develop in the areas outlined within “Curricular Guidance for Pre-School Education. We have a detailed list of policies and procedures which are available to parents at all times. Flutterbies operates an ethos of respect and inclusivity for all. We welcome the diversity of family lifestyles and work with all families. Our staff are committed to provide a pleasant, positive and stimulating environment in which children are secure and feel a sense of belonging. To ensure this, staff work closely with parents/carers to meet the needs of the individual child effectively. 183 All children are respected and their individuality and potential recognised. Activities and use of play equipment offer children opportunities to develop in an environment free from prejudice and discrimination. We welcome children with special needs and work together with parents and outside agencies to support and meet the needs of each individual child within our setting. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The following criteria will be applied in the allocation of places. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria Should there be more applications than funded places, Flutterbies will apply the following criteria in order a children who are currently attending Flutterbies Playgroup b children with siblings/half siblings who have attended Flutterbies Playgroup c children who put Flutterbies Playgroup as their first preference d children who live in the immediate area of the Playgroup. Distance will be determined by a straight line measurement on the Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home address. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Management Committee will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to our admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include, whether the child is the eldest child, is attending Flutterbies Playgroup or has brothers or sisters who are attending or have attended Flutterbies. Flutterbies Playgroup Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the publicised criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Flutterbies will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact us if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 184 FORGE INTEGRATED PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 20 CAROLAN ROAD BELFAST BT7 3HE Telephone No: 07732 988232 Email: [email protected] www.forgeips.co.uk Playgroup Leader: Stephanie Cherry General Information Forge Integrated Pre-School Playgroup began in 2001, moving to its new building in the grounds of Forge Integrated Primary School in 2003. The playgroup has close links with the primary school. Most of the pre-school children transfer to P1 at Forge and a link teacher call in on a regular basis. The buildings are bright and spacious and are equipped with a soft surface outdoor play area which is partly covered so that the children can go outdoors even on wet days. We aim to provide high quality education through planned play activities to enhance the individual child’s intellectual, social, physical and emotional development. We are very proud of our happy, welcoming atmosphere in which children and their families flourish together. Our dual day operates from 8.45am to 11.45am and from 12.30pm to 3.00pm Twenty-four children will be admitted into the morning session and twenty-four will be admitted into the afternoon session. Curriculum We believe that play is the principal means of learning in early childhood. This promotes the child’s natural curiosity and is the foundation for a good start in primary school. The curriculum is planned through a series of themes, e.g. seasons, festivals, myself etc. through the course of a day a child would expect to encounter Creative Materials Natural Materials Construction Materials Pre-writing material (e.g. crayons, felt pens) Imaginative Play (e.g. dressing up) Table top toys (e.g. puzzles, games) Computer time Music Quiet time activities (e.g. circle time, stories/books) 185 There is a breadth and challenge within all aspects of the pre-school curriculum. There are opportunities to explore, experiment and create both indoors and outdoors. Staffing There are 3 members of playgroup staff. The playgroup leader is qualified to NVQ Level 4 and holds a certificate in Developing Creativity in the Early Years. The assistant and deputy leader are both qualified to NVQ Level 3, Children’s Care, Learning and Development. All are committed to extra training as the opportunity or need arises. The last Department of Education Inspection Report (2010) stated many positive comments including “The provision for pastoral care within the pre-school is very good: especially noted is the very good care and sensitive support provided by staff and the children’s excellent behavior and very good social skills.” Inclusion Policy The playgroup aims to provide appropriate play opportunities where all children can be included. Where necessary, the playgroup staff will work with parents and other professionals to determine if and how each child’s needs can be met. As an Integrated Education provider, we aim to ensure that children from all religious backgrounds and none are welcomed equally. Parents who wish their child to be considered for the afternoon session as a second preference in case of not gaining a morning session place should enter “Forge Integrated Preschool am” as the higher preference and “Forge Integrated Pre-school pm” on a separate line as second third or fourth preference. While the pre-school will endeavour to facilitate preference this may not always be possible. Please note that the admissions criteria will be applied before morning or afternoon preference is taken into account. Admissions Criteria The following criteria will be applied in the allocation of places. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. 186 Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Children who have brothers or sisters currently attending or previously attended the playgroup b Children who have brothers or sisters currently attending Forge Integrated Primary School. c Children of staff currently employed within Forge Integrated Pre-School Playgroup and children of teaching and non-teaching staff currently employed within Forge Integrated Primary School. d Children who have brothers or sisters who previously attended Forge Integrated Primary School. e Children whose admission to the playgroup will maintain or promote a ratio of 40% Catholic children and 40% Protestant children and 20% of children from other faiths or none. To facilitate this process, parents/carers are asked to complete the additional Forge Integrated Pre-School Playgroup application form, available from the playgroup. This form must be completed and attached to the open enrolment application if the playgroup has been listed as a preference Please note that failure to do so will mean that your application is incomplete. In the event of over-subscription and there being a tie-break situation in the last criterion which can be applied then selection for all places remaining in this category will be on the basis of: 1 In the first instance children whose parents have elected Forge Integrated Pre-school Playgroup or another Integrated Pre-school Playgroup/Nursery School as their first preference (in order to honour our commitment to offer Integrated places to those parents for whom this is an important feature of their child’s education) and; 2 In the event of there being a further tie break the initial letter of the child’s surname in the order set out below: G A I T F B X K H O S Mac C R D L U E W Q Y V N C Mc P Z J M Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the publicized criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 187 HILLCREST DAY NURSERY 14 ANNADALE AVENUE BELFAST BT7 3JH Telephone No: 028 9064 0917 EMAIL: [email protected] Playgroup Leaders: Sarah McClung Carley Walker Opening Hours: 9am – 11.30am 5 days per week – September - June Staffing The two members of staff in this setting hold QCF Level 3 Diploma and are supported by our management team and an Early Years Specialist who provides advice on the curriculum, routine and development. Our Aims Are: To provide an environment where all children are treated as individuals and whose developmental needs are met through a rich learning experience. To demonstrate through language, attitude and behaviour that we positively value diversity in race, culture, religion, gender, ability and disability. To work in partnership with parents. To provide a play based curriculum in line with the ‘Northern Ireland Guidance for PreSchool Education’. We will follow the foundation stage and its six areas of learning and development. -Personal and social development. -Problem solving and Numeracy. -Literacy and Language. -Physical development and movement. -The world around us. -Art and Creativity. A voluntary charge of £20 per term is levied to cover snacks, cookery activities and visitors to the group. Special Needs Policy Children with special needs will be admitted after consultation between parents, the pre-school leader, key worker and management. We operate a key-worker system in which each member of staff is especially responsible for a small group of children. We will therefore endeavour to meet the individual needs of any child admitted to our pre-school group. 188 Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a. Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age - Eldest first. b. Children who currently attend Hillcrest. c. Children who have listed Hillcrest as their first preference. d. Children who already have or previously have had a sibling attend Hillcrest. e. Children who have a parent/carer employed by Hillcrest. f. Children living (where the child lives with the main carer) closest to Hillcrest measured by a straight line using Google Maps. In the event of over subscription in the above categories, the children will be selected in random alphabetical order as written on the child’s birth certificate in the order set out below: C A M B N R Mc E V Q Y Z U I F W Mac G H J O K D L S P X T This order was determined by a randomized selection of the letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the forenames will be used. Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all applicants that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the publicised criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. We will contact in writing if your child gains a place at Hillcrest by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, we will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 189 HOLY CROSS PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP FLAX STREET BELFAST BT14 7EJ Telephone No: 028 9074 1131 Playgroup Leaders: Linda Davison - am Katrina McGinn - pm General information Holy Cross playgroup is situated on Flax Street beside Ardoyne Youth Club. The playgroup has developed its curriculum plan based on the guidelines stated in the pre-school curriculum guidance document (1997). The pre-school curriculum plan aims to provide developmentally appropriate activities to promote each of the areas of development outlined in the guidance document-personal, social and emotional development, physical development, creative/aesthetic development, language development, early mathematical experiences, early experiences in science and technology, knowledge and appreciation of the environment. The programme of activities is reviewed and amended on a regular basis to ensure that the individual needs of the children are being met. Holy Cross Playgroup provides a settled, caring atmosphere with good relationships being enjoyed between the staff and the children. Our dedicated staff work closely as a team and work very hard to ensure they maintain good links with parents. Dates and times of opening The playgroup is operational five days per week for 38 weeks from September to June. We operate two sessions per day: Morning 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Afternoon (Non Pre-School) 1:30 pm to 4:30pm Staffing 3 Staff in morning session have completed NVQ Level 3. 2 Staff in afternoon session, 1 NVQ Level 3 and 1 NVQ Level 2 Special Needs Policy Our playgroup aims to provide an appropriate learning opportunity for all children. Our admissions are open to those children with special needs and will work with parents and outside agencies to meet the needs of each child within our setting. 190 Admissions criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. As there are only a limited number of free places available, all applications for free places must satisfy the following admissions criteria: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If there are more applications for free places which satisfy the above criteria than the number of free places available within any of the above criteria, the following sub-criteria will be applied: a Children residing within Holy Cross Parish and /or children outside the parish but within walking distance of the playgroup. b Children referred by Social Services. c Children with special education needs as identified by letter from a GP, medical consultant, social worker etc. d Children who have had a brother/sister at the playgroup. e Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Holy Cross Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it 191 KIDS @ BT9 58-60 ULSTREVILLE AVENUE BELFAST BT9 7AQ Part-time places 5 days per week Telephone No: 028 90665266 Email : [email protected] Hours 9.30-12noon Nursery Manager: Jill McWilliams Kids@BT9 is delighted to have the opportunity to offer funded places for children of pre-school age. We are registered for 24 pre-school children. Additional day care can be offered around the funded place, offering care for your child in the pre-school room from 7.30am – 6.30pm Monday to Friday. The pre-school children have access to a wide range of learning experiences both indoors and outdoors. We offer every child the opportunity to learn through play in a safe and stimulating environment, meeting their individual needs through observation and planning. Every child is important and is given the opportunity to grow and develop socially, emotionally and physically during their time at Kids@BT9. We aim to work in partnership with parents recognizing that you are the first educators of your child. Children must attend five days per week running from 9.30 am until 12 noon. Clearday Nurseries employ an Early Years Specialist who works closely with the pre-school team, all of which hold a relevant childcare qualification. The Early Years Specialist provides support and advice on the curriculum, routine and development An Open Evening for parents considering an application for Kids@BT9 will be held on Monday 16 December at 6.00pm. Admissions Criteria The admission policy and criteria will be applied in allocating the places created under the preschool education expansion programme. Allocation of funded places can only be considered for those children in their immediate preschool year. (Born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011). When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Nursery will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the preschool’s admission criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include, whether the child attends Kids@BT9 in a paying capacity, state name of parent/guardian who is employed by the organization, if the child has a sibling who has previously attended Kids@BT9 in a funded or paying capacity. 192 Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: 1. Children who are currently attending Kids@BT9 on a full-time or part-time basis. 2. Children who state Kids@BT9 as their first preference. 3. Children whose parent/guardian is an employee of the organisation 4. Children who have a sibling who is currently attending or has previously attended Kids@BT9 in a paying or funded capacity. 5. Children living (where the child lives with main carer) closest to Kids@BT9 measured by public road (using google maps). If the event of oversubscription in the above categories or a tie break is required the following criteria will be applied:Children will be selected for admission on the basis of initial letter of surname (as entered on their birth certificate) in the order set out below:H J R B F W K O Mac D A E L Y M S U Mc T P Q I Z C X V N G This order was determined by a randomized selection of the letters of the alphabet. In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. I the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used. The pre-school’s policy on the consideration of application after the Open Enrolment procedure concludes on Friday 30 May 2014 is available directly from Kids@BT9 Nursery. Should a vacancy arise, the above criteria will be applied to select pupils from our waiting list. 193 LITTLE HANDS LITTLE FEET LTD. DERRYVOLGIE HOUSE 73 MALONE ROAD BELFAST BT9 6SB Telephone No: 028 9066 5037 Our premises are situated on a secure one-acre site on the Malone Road. The Little hands Little feet building is a visually stunning large detached Victorian House with an extensive lawn area to the front and a secure playground on one side. With a strong emphasis on high quality play and education, the site allows the nursery to offer pre-school children unique activities, both in and outdoors, in-line with our planners and in keeping with the pre-school curriculum recommendations. Aims At Little hands Little feet Ltd. we have a clear understanding of the importance of a child’s early years and the impact these years have upon a child’s later development and education. In light of this our aims include: The holistic development of the child to encompass all their emotional, physical and educational needs To provide a stimulating age and development appropriate setting, in line with the preschool curriculum To build a strong parent/carer partnership through meetings, newsletters, diaries, parental help and information boards to enhance a child’s development, both at home and school To offer children high quality interactions with adults who are highly passionate, dedicated and in line with the recommended adult to child ratios with the appropriate qualifications in education and childcare To follow the Pre-School Curriculum and its six areas of learning and development: o Physical Development and Movement o Early Mathematical Experiences o Language Development o The World Around Us o The Arts Aesthetic Development o Personal, Social and Emotional Development To enhance a child’s development through observations, developmental records, individual education plans and child assessments 194 To offer education and care to children with special needs. At Little hands Little feet Ltd. feet we believe it is every child’s right to learn in a safe, stimulating and sensitive environment regardless of religion, culture or special needs Hours of Opening Little hands Little feet open 5 days per week, Monday to Friday 7.30 am – 6.00 pm The Pre-School will operate: 9.00 am – 11.30 am (Funded) 11.30 am – 12.30 pm (Supplement Charged) 11.30 am – 2.30 pm (Supplement Charged) 11.30am – 6.00 pm (Supplement Charged) Nursery Staff Miss Emma McKelvey - B.A . (Hons) Early Childhood Studies Mrs Amanda Ferguson – B.Ed (Hons) Primary School Education Admissions Criteria The undernoted admissions criteria will be applied in allocating the places created under the Preschool Education Expansion Programme. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1. Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year. 2. Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a. Children already in attendance at Little hands Little feet. b. Children whose brother/sister have attended or currently attend Little hands Little feet Ltd. c. Children whose permanent residence is in the shortest distance from the school. Distance will be measured by a straight line on the Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s/guardians home, to the front door of Little hands Little feet Ltd. d. Children who have a parent as a member of staff. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Little hands Little feet Pre-School that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. Little hands Little feet Pre-School will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. 195 Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact Little hands Little feet Ltd. if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, Little hands Little feet Pre-School will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 196 MALONE NURSERY SCHOOL SIMPLY ME MALONE KING’S HALL COMPLEX BALMORAL LISBURN ROAD BELFAST BT9 6GW Telephone No: 07803 167969 Website: www.malonenurseryschool.com Nursery Leader/Early Years Specialist: Alison Madill The Nursery School and Playschool are incorporated within Simply Me Malone in South Belfast offering quality early years experiences to develop the “whole” child. Kindergarden style nursery classes – Education Board free places. Feeder into Fullerton Prep., Stranmillis, St Bride’s, St Anne’s, Finaghy and all local Primary schools. Highly professional graduate team of Early Years practitioners. Individual personalized record of each child’s development. Full-time Educare including Breakfast Club, Children’s workshops and After school. Spacious, bright, child orientated classrooms. Endless scope for outdoor play in a country environment within a city setting. Aims A child learns more during the first seven years of his/her life. Our aim is: primarily to help develop the whole child by enabling children to pursue their own interests within a stimulating environment; to involve children in the wheel process of active learning through materials, manipulation, choice, language and adult support; to implement a “plan-do-recall” process; to offer high quality adult-child interaction; to learn as much as possible about each child’s interests and abilities through daily anecdotal notes and child assessment; to form a strong partnership between home and school. 197 Early Years Curriculum The playschool curriculum employs a stepping stone approach to learning based on fun characters to allow learning through play. Meanwhile the nursery classes follow a more structured nursery curriculum following the Reggio Emilio approach. Children in the Reggio and High-scope program engage in the plan-do-recall process. This enables children to plan and choose an activity to work at…work to follow through a plan and problem solve… and reflect on what they have learned from their experience. Hours of Opening Monday to Friday Toddler Playschool Playschool Nursery Class: After School including workshops 8:45 am – 12.15pm 8:45 am – 12:15pm or 8.45am – 2.15pm 8.45 am – 11.15pm (Funded) 8.45 am – 12.30pm or 2.30(Supplement) 2.00pm – 5.30 pm daily Special Needs Policy Developing the ‘whole child’ and meeting each child’s individual needs are the most important part of our special needs policy. Specialist staff are able to adapt or devise a personalized learning program to meet the individual needs of the child. Staff Nursery Principal/ Early Years Specialist Alison Madill B.A Ed. (Hons) Early Years Specialist Nursery Teacher Amy Hunt Mrs Susan Chambers Nursery Assistants Laura Madill B Ed. Hons. With Early Years B.Ed (Hons) Early Years/Science BSc Hons Architecture Doctorate Educational Psychology (Pending), Miss Claire Lawlor Miss Sarah McCreight Mrs Karely Alvarado-Ruiz Mrs Hannah McCollum HND Early Years BA Early Childhood Studies BA Early Childhood Studies Diploma in Early Years B.Sc Speech Therapy Playschool Leader Mrs Deirdre Crawford Diploma in Early Years Mrs Paula Martin Toddler Playschool Leader Miss Emma Reid Early Years Assistants Miss Tara Williams Mrs Sarah Nelson BA Early Childhood Studies BA Early Childhood Studies BA Early Childhood Studies 198 Admissions Criteria The undernoted admissions criteria will be applied in allocating the places under the Preschool Education Expansion Programme. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Children already attending Malone Playschool b Children who have a parent as a member of staff c Children in order of date of birth, the oldest children being selected first Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Malone Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. Examples of such information include whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school. 199 NAÍSCOIL MHIC REACHTAIN THE 174 TRUST DUNCAIRN AVENUE BELFAST BT14 6BP Telephone No: 028 9074 0831 Naiscoil Co-ordinator: Naiscoil Mhic Reachtain is an Irish Medium Pre-school and a feeder nursery to Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain (The McCracken Primary School). Our aim is provide play experiences, learning opportunities and adult support to help children develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. We Offer - An effective second language acquisition programme, which provides children with a good grounding in the Irish Language. A well-developed theme-based curriculum, which covers the seven areas of learning outlined in Curriculum Guidance for Pre-school Education. Opportunities for children to engage in activities planned by adults and also activities they initiate themselves. Age and stage appropriate activities/experiences, which build on what children already know and can do. A warm, caring environment in which all children feel included, secure and valued. The support of a personal key worker who will engage in the children’s play, support their interests and converse with them. Assessment and observation - each child is assessed and observed regularly throughout their time in the Naiscoil and regular meetings are held with parents to report on the achievements and needs of the child. Irish classes are available on site to all parents. Opportunities for you and your family to be directly involved in the activities of the groups and in your own child’s progress. Policies All our policies are designed to offer the best possible experience for the children and families in the group. Our policies are reviewed on a regular basis and comments and suggestions are always welcome. Our policy statements are included in our parent’s booklet. Dates and hours of opening The nursery opens 5 days a week during term time. Pre-School 9.15am - 12.45 Pre Pre-School 9.15am – 12 noon The Pre Pre-School session caters for those children who are 3 years old and there are 16 places available. Entry Dates There are two dates for entry into the Naionra one in September and one in February. 200 Adult Resources At present we have 4 full time childcare workers. We are proud of the high ratio of adults to children in our group. This ensures individual attention to the needs and development of each child. Promoting an inclusive environment for immersion into Irish language. Qualifications (1) Playgroup Supervisor: NVQ Level 3, Diploma in Irish Language, Child Protection, First Aid Training, Behaviour Management. (2) Playworker: Diploma in Irish Language, NVQ Level 3, Child Protection (3) Playworker: B.A. (Irish), Child Protection. First Aid (4) BA Hons in Irish Language and Literature. Promoting an inclusive environment. Training Our membership of NIPPA and close liaison with ALTRAM ensures that we are constantly in touch with new training in the field of child education and care. We believe that effective initial and ongoing training for early years ‘teacher-carers’ is a hallmark of quality. Our staff are encouraged to avail of any training opportunities. Special Needs The Naiscoil is committed to making Irish medium education available to all children. We are experienced in working in close liaison with professionals across the range of special needs. If you would like to discuss the group’s ability to meet your child’s special needs you can speak to our pre-school leader or your child’s key worker. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub Criteria Should there be more applicants than places available, the following admissions sub-criteria will apply; (a) Children with siblings at Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain or at Naiscoil Mhic Reachtain (b) Children from an Irish Language background and for those parents who demonstrate a commitment to promotion of the language ie. willing to attend Irish classes. (c) Children in the order on which they have registered for Mhic Reachtain (d) Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Naiscoil Mhic Reacthain that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. 201 Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 202 NAISCOIL AN LONNÁIN 61 FALLS ROAD BELFAST BT12 Telephone No: 02890 240241 Playgroup Leader: Lauren Morgan Naíscoil an Lonnáin is a multi-denominational Irish Medium Nursery Unit which provides a high standard of curriculum-based activities through the Irish Language for children aged 34yrs. The Naíscoil is located on-site with Gaelscoil an Lonnáin, Irish Medium Primary School, and the After School Club (An Cumann Iarscoile), all of which work closely together in order to provide the highest possible standard of childcare and academic attainment for each child on a bilingual basis. Learning through the Irish Language All Naíscoil activities are taught through the medium of the Irish Language, although English be the first language of your child, numerous studies commissioned by the Department of Education has highlighted the clear advantages of children acquiring another language at this important stage of a child’s development. The naíscoil staff also have established a code of practice to ensure that parents with no spoken Irish can continue to play a significant role in their child’s development. (Parental Irish classes are available during the whole academic year). Curriculum Curriculum based activities on offer, Monday - Friday 9.00am - 12.30pm includes; Sand Home Corner Jigsaws Song & Rhymes Outdoor Play Water Junk Art Clay Interest Table Cookery Dressing up Construction Stories Visits Paint Dough Woodwork Crafts Staffing There are 3 members of staff who between them hold the following qualifications: NVQ 3, NVQ 2, including also Child Protection Training and First Aid Training, Degree in Irish, Diploma in Irish and Incredible Years Training. Staff continue to meet the high standard for all practices within the Naíscoil, as is expected. Parental Involvement All parents are encouraged to participate in their child’s learning, through parental meetings and other activities such as the Summer Scheme Activities that are organised for naíscoil children and their parents, in particular. Special Needs Policy The Naíscoil aims to provide a welcome and appropriate learning opportunity for all children. Children with special needs, like all other children, are admitted after consultation between parents, the pre-school leader and the keyworker. 203 Modus Operandi Our system of observation and record keeping, which operates in conjunction with parents, enables us to monitor children’s needs and progress on an individual basis. Our keyworker system ensures that each adult is specially responsible for and close to just 6 or 7 children, so that each child receives plenty of adult time and attention. Wherever possible, we will provide for the needs of children in the community who have particular special needs. Whenever possible, our staff attend in-service training on special needs. This training is arranged by our partnership bodies. We work in liaison with staff outside the group including therapists, health visitors, psychologists, social workers and paediatricians, in order to meet the children’s specific needs. All activities will be taught through the medium of Irish, which will be adapted according to constraints (academically, linguistically or physically) to suit the child’s needs. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a b c Children whose siblings are current or past pupils. Children referred by Social Services. Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. During the Naíscoil year, when places become available, children will be admitted on the basis of the above criteria. Children in their pre-school year will be given preference. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Nailscoil an Lonnain that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 204 NAISCOIL NA MONA 5 MONAGH GROVE BELFAST BT11 8EJ Telephone No: 02890 619773 Playgroup Leader: Annette Small Is Naíscoil Lán-Ghaeilge í Naíscoil na Móna ina dteasgactar an curaclam tríd an Ghaeilge. Beidh daltaí a dhéanann freastal ar na Móna dátheangach. Tá sé sé cruthaithe go bhfuil buntaistí ag baint le líofacht in dhá theanga ag aois chomh hóg sin I dtaca le forbairt phearsanta, intleachtúil, shiosialta agus chultúrtha an dalta. Is scoil idirchreidmheach í na Móna. Is í an páiste croílár na scoile. Bíonn caidrimh oscailte agus láidir idir pháistí, tuismitheoirí agus fhoireann na scoile. Bítear ag súil go rachaidh tuismitheoirí dhalta na Móna chuig ranganna Gaeilge ionas go mbeidh siad pairteachin in oideachas a bpáistí fein. Naiscoil na Mona is an Irish Medium Nursery School where the curriculum is delivered through the medium of Irish language. Pupils attending na Móna will become bilingual. Fluency in two languages at such an early age has proven to be advantageous to the pupils’ personal, emotional, social and cultural development. We actively promote an enriched curriculum and encourage parents to become involved in their children’s education. Naiscoil na Mona is an interdenominational nursery school which celebrates all children regardless of religious or political background. There are open, strong and positive relationships between pupils, parents and staff in the nursery school with the pupils’ whole development being the main aim. We are an integral part of Gaelscoil na Mona. We offer a wide range of Afterschool’s and evening cultural activities and have a strong parent’s group. We also provide a breakfast club and lunch club. Further Opportunities We do not only support the children in the pre-school curriculum we also offer a wide range of additional activities for the whole family which include Breakfast Club Lunch Club Saolúr Surestart 2 year old programme Family Days Languages Classes Training opportunities for parents 205 Aims and Objectives Naíscoil na Móna is committed to providing high quality childcare provision through Irish in a warm and friendly atmosphere. We aim to promote a high standard of Pre-School Education and a love of the Irish language and culture through the medium of language and play thus encouraging learning. We believe it is important to maintain a close relationship with our parents for the benefit of our children. We aim to involve parents and volunteers in the provision, providing training where possible, and are continuing to forge links with other groups and schools in the area. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. Sub Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: 1 Children with siblings or half-brothers/half-sisters attending Gaelscoil na Móna 2 Children with other family members attending Gaelscoil na Móna 3 Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 31 May 2014 all applications for admission to Naiscoil na Mona that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 206 OUR LADY’S PLAYGROUP DEANBY GARDENS BELFAST BT14 6NN Tel No: 02890 741668 Playgroup Leader: Karen Havlin Curriculum Our Lady’s Playgroup has a well developed theme based curriculum derived from ‘Curriculum Guidance for Pre-School Education. The Pre-School Curriculum aims to provide appropriate activities to promote each of the areas of development outlined in the guidance document. This programme of activities is reviewed and amended on a regular basis to ensure that the individual needs of the children are being met. Hours of opening Morning session 9.00am – 11.45am Afternoon session 12.30pm – 3.00pm Staffing Our Lady’s Playgroup have 2 staff. A full-time supervisor who is trained to NVQ Level 3 and an assistant currently completing NVQ Level 3. Playgroup Information The playgroup occupies a bright, spacious, beautifully furnished classroom. The children have access to a separate and secure play area for their outdoor play. The school assembly hall and literacy room are timetabled for playgroup use. The playgroup staff are very caring and are dedicated to the welfare and happiness of the children. There is a strong link between the primary school and playgroup staff. Special Needs Our Lady’s Playgroup welcome children with special needs providing that the number of children with special needs may be catered for by staff, bearing in mind the needs of other children. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Should there be more applications than free places available, the playgroup will apply the following admission criteria: 1 2 3 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Children who are referred by social services, other statutory or voluntary organisations 207 4 5 6 7 8 Children deemed to be At Risk or In Need. Children with Special Educational Needs. Children from another cultural background Children who already have or previously had a brother or sister attending the playgroup Any remaining places will be allocated on the basis of eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Our Ladys Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 208 PLAY AND LEARN PLAYGROUP HOLY CROSS GIRLS’ PRIMARY SCHOOL ARDOYNE ROAD BELFAST BT14 7HZ Telephone No: 028 9039 1771 Playgroup Leader : Andrea Mullan Curriculum Our title ‘Play and Learn’, reflects the basic philosophy of our centre — that young children learn through play and personal experience. In order to allow this learning and development to take place we aim to provide: • • • • • • • • • a warm caring atmosphere between staff and children in which the child feels secure and loved. a stimulating environment both inside and outside with appropriate material for play and discovery. a curriculum which evolves from the individual needs of the child and which promotes learning in the areas of: personal, social and emotional development; physical development; creative/aesthetic development; language development; early mathematical experiences; early experiences in science and technology; and knowledge and appreciation of the environment. careful planning of the programme and monitoring the achievements of each child to ensure progression in all areas. a book-rich environment in which a high priority is given to developing a love of books. A wide variety of books is available for parents to read to children at home. stimulating play materials within a bright attractive play room. frequent use of the facilities and equipment of the primary school in which the centre is situated an outdoor play space and garden for growing plants. trips to places of special interest e.g. zoo, farm, seaside etc. The playgroup leader and assistants are well trained and highly motivated to fulfil our aims and to help our children learn and develop in all areas. We hope that our children will leave the playgroup feeling secure and happy, ready to explore the world around them and tackle new situations with enthusiasm and confidence. There will be an additional charge of £3 per child per week to cover a mid-morning break. Dates and hours of opening There is one session per day, beginning at 9:00am and finishes at 1.15pm. The playgroup operates from Monday to Friday during the school term. 209 Staffing numbers and qualifications There are three permanent members of staff. The leader has HND in Early Childhood Studies and the assistants have NVQ Level 3 and NNEB. A trainee with NVQ Level 2 who is studying for NVQ Level 3 also works in the group at present. Special Needs It is the policy of the playgroup to welcome children with special needs providing that: • • • the number of children with special needs may be catered for by the staff, bearing in mind the needs of the other children; professional guidance is sought to ensure that the child will be able to avail of this type of preschool education; and the integration of the child into the group will be carefully planned. Staff will work with professionals to devise individual educational plans if necessary. If the child’s physical disability is such that she or he may be easily integrated into the playgroup every effort will be made to accommodate him or her. Admissions Criteria The maximum number of places in each session will not exceed 24 children. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criterion In the event of oversubscription the following sub-criteria will apply in the order stated (a) children who reside in Holy Cross Parish and whose siblings attended Play & Learn and for whom Play & Learn is their first choice (b) children who have brothers or sisters currently attending Holy Cross Girls’ or Holy cross Boys Primary Schools and for whom Play & Learn is their first choice. (c) children who reside in Holy Cross Parish and for whom Play & Learn is their first choice. (d) Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age- Eldest first. Waiting List Your child’s name will be automatically added to the waiting list. Please contact the setting if you wish your child’s name to be removed. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. 210 RESURRECTION NURSERY & PLAYGROUP 120 CAVEHILL ROAD BELFAST BT15 2LS Telephone No: 028 9039 1012 Playgroup Leader: Rachel McAuley Hours of Opening Morning Afternoon Monday - Friday: Monday - Friday: 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 12:45 pm - 3:00 pm Resurrection Nursery and Playgroup is situated on the Cavehill Road behind the Church of the Resurrection. We have been operating now for 14 years. Staffing At present Resurrection Nursery & Playgroup is staffed by 4 permanent members of staff, and 1 student. Three members of staff are qualified to NVQ Level 3 in child care and education and are continuously upgrading their skills through training courses. Each member of staff and all volunteers are thoroughly vetted by the North and West Health and Social Trust and the Police. Our Aims are 1. To provide a happy and safe environment which is structured to meet the needs of each child. 2. To provide a highly stimulating and motivating environment, conducive to the overall development of each child to his/her full potential through a broad and balanced curriculum. 3. To create a caring atmosphere where qualities of mutual respect, tolerance and acceptance of diversity are modeled and developed. 4. To foster the development of personal qualities such as self-discipline, self-esteem, independence, confidence and resourcefulness. Curriculum Resurrection Nursery & Playgroup offers a balanced curriculum through play which will promote development in the following areas: • The Arts • Physical Development and Movement • Personal, Social and Emotional Development • Language Development • Early mathematical experiences • The World Around Us 211 Special Needs Resurrection Nursery and Playgroup welcomes children with special needs providing that: 1. The number of children with special needs can be catered for by our staff, bearing in mind the needs of other children. 2. The nature and degree of a child’s special needs can be catered for by our staff, bearing in mind the needs of other children. 3. Professional advice is sought to enable staff to meet the needs of all the child’s requirements before he/she comes to the group. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If there are more applications for free places which satisfy the above criteria than the number of free places available then the sub-criteria below will be applied. a b c d e f g Children who listed Resurrection Nursery and Playgroup as first preference Children who attended the afternoon session Children with brothers/sisters who previously attended the playgroup Children of parent(s) working in the playgroup or are members of the management committee Children who, through their ethnic, religious or cultural background, will enhance the diversity of the group Children with special needs Children in order of age; the eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Resurrection that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 212 ST COLMCILLE’S PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 191 UPPER NEWTOWNARDS ROAD BELFAST BT4 3JB Telephone Number – 07936197434/02890472724 Pre-school Playgroup Co-ordinator – Kathy Doherty BSc (Hons) BA Education (Hons) The playgroup operates five days per week from September – June Hours of opening Monday – Friday 09.00 am – 12 noon (two groups) Monday – Friday 12.30 – 3.30 pm (two groups) St. Colmcille’s Pre-school Playgroup has been operating for twenty years. The pre-school is sited in new purpose built premises and has an adjoining safe surface outdoor play area. The group is situated in the grounds of St. Colmcille’s Parish Church on the Upper Newtownards Road and operates on a term-time basis. A wide range of planned activities are available on a daily basis and this includes opportunities for outdoor play. Through well planned curriculum activities covering the six areas of learning – physical, emotional and language development, the arts, the world around us and early mathematical experiences, children will progress at their own pace emotionally, physically, socially and intellectually. The group is inspected by Social Services each year and recently was inspected by the Education Training Inspectorate. The very good report that we received can be read at www.etini.gov.uk The pre-school is community based and organised by the Management Committee. We welcome children from all cultural and religious backgrounds. Parents are actively encouraged to participate in outings and class discussions. Throughout the year, parents and staff will meet formally and informally to discuss their child’s progress. Booklets, newsletters and notice boards provide parents with information regarding the monthly planned curriculum activities. The pre-school ask for a donation of £30.00 per term for school fund to cover the costs of photographs that are displayed in the play rooms, included in each child’s individual work portfolio and snack. The playgroup is supported by Early Years, the Organisation for Young Children and hold two Accreditation Awards from Early Years for groups in recognition of the quality of care and education being provided. Staffing St. Colmcille’s Pre-school Playgroup employs eleven staff. All staff hold qualifications of a high standard: MA Early Childhood Education, BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, NNEB, NVQ Early Years Care and Education Level 3. Child Protection Training. First Aid Trained, Makaton Trained. Designated Persons Training Aims - To provide a caring, safe environment which is structured to meet the needs of each child. - To provide a relaxed atmosphere and create a stimulating learning environment in order to promote the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of each child. - To develop personal qualities of self-confidence, self-discipline, self-esteem and selfexpression. 213 - To support individual personal development in the six areas of learning in the curriculum as a base for future learning. Curriculum St. Colmcille’s Pre-school Playgroup offers a balanced curriculum through play that will promote development in the following areas: - Personal, Social and Emotional Development Physical Development Language Development The Arts Early Mathematical Experiences The World Around Us Admissions Being a committed provider of equal opportunities, we support the local community by providing access to our setting regardless of religions, disability, linguistic needs, sexual orientations, gender or age. We ensure the existence of the playgroup is widely known in all communities through advertising, making our equal opportunities ethos known and describing the playgroup in terms that make it clear that we welcome all sections of the community. Special Needs St. Colmcille’s Pre-school Playgroup operates a special needs policy and welcomes children with special needs providing that the number of children with special needs can be catered for by the staff, taking into account the needs of other children. Children who require skilled support from professionals are welcome provided we can put the proper support and backup in place. Waiting List Your child’s name will be automatically added to the waiting list. Please contact the setting if you wish your child’s name to be removed. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Should there be more applications received than places available, the playgroup will apply the following admissions criteria as set down by the Board: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; 214 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If there are more applications for free places which satisfy the above criteria than the number of free places available then the normal playgroup criteria will be further applied as follows:. (A) Priority will be given to those who put St. Colmcille’s Pre-school as their first choice; (B) Children who already have or previously had a brother or sister attending the playgroup (whether the child is the eldest child/has brothers or sisters attending the school; (C) Children referred by Social Services or other statutory or voluntary organisations; (D) Children who reside in the parish of St. Colmcille’s; (E) Children whose parents are employed by St. Joseph’s Primary School or St. Colmcille’s Pre-school Playgroup, or volunteers with more than one years’ service; (F) Tie-breaker METHOD A– ALPHABET – A criterion that prioritises applicants by where the letters of their name places them on a rank established by any order of all the letters within the alphabet. Children will be selected for admission on the basis of initial letter of surname (as entered on birth certificate) in the order set out below: E M Y K T S L Mac Z Q O G N A Mc I H F V P R W D B C U J X This order was determined by a randomised selection of the letters of the alphabet In the event of surnames beginning with the same initial letter the subsequent letters of the surname will be used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames will be used. The Board of Governors reserve the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any application form. The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by the preschool can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any pre-school nominated on the applicants form. 215 ST JOHN’S PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 464 FALLS ROAD BELFAST BT12 6EN Telephone No: 02890 315945 Playgroup Leader: Alison McGuiness 1 The playgroup operates 38 weeks in the year (September - June), 5 days per week. 2 The centre is accessible to those with special needs in terms of layout and admission to the group. The playgroup is registered by Social Services. Staffing The playgroup is staffed with 4 members of staff who hold suitable qualifications. Curriculum St John’s Pre-school Playgroup, offer a wide range of activities which comply with the preschool guidance curriculum document (1997). The pre-school curriculum plan aims to provide developmentally appropriate activities to promote each of the areas of development outlined in the guidance document. This programme of activities is reviewed and amended on a regular basis to ensure that the individual needs of the children are being met. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If there are more applications for free places which satisfy the above criteria than the number of free places available then the sub-criteria below will be applied. a b c d e f Children who are referred by Social Services, other statutory or voluntary organisation. Children with special educational needs as identified by letter from a GP, medical consultant, social worker etc. Children from another cultural background. Children who already have or previously had a brother or sister attending the playgroup Children related to staff or volunteers of the playgroup Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. 216 Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St John’s Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 217 ST OLIVER PLUNKETT PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP ST OLIVER PLUNKETT PRIMARY SCHOOL GLEN ROAD BELFAST BT11 8AY Telephone No: 028 9062 1720 Playgroup Manager: Pauline Boyle The St Oliver Plunkett Pre-school Playgroup is a newly built facility situated within the campus of St Oliver Plunkett Primary School. It is a bright and cheerful environment for young children. The playgroup follows the DENI curricular guidance for the delivery of the Pre-School curriculum and provides a stimulating learning environment where each child is recognized as an individual. All children in the setting are respected and encouraged to fulfill their potential through a well-planned, balanced programme of play activities, events and trips which will facilitate and enhance the all round development and progress of each child who attends. The playgroup operates on a term-time basis and works in conjunction with primary school breaks. The playgroup opens for 188 days per year. The playgroup session is 9.00am – 1.00pm. Special Educational Needs Policy and Provisions: It is the policy of St. Oliver Plunkett Pre-School Playgroup to consider children with special educational needs for enrolment and to accommodate these children in the playgroup, if, after assessment it is felt that there is sufficient staff and physical resources to deal with their early education and care. The playgroup staff will endeavour to meet the special educational needs of any child after admission to the group. Admissions Criteria The playgroup is registered with Social Services and is also participating in the Pre-school Education Expansion Programme. Under the Pre-school Education Expansion Programme some places in the playgroup will be free. Under this Programme places in the playgroup will only be allocated to children in their immediate preschool year. A child will only be offered a place in the playgroup which is situated within a catchment area of the child’s home address. Should there be more applications than free places available, the Playgroup will apply the following admissions criteria: *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are on their immediate preschool year; 218 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. In the event of over subscription the following Sub-criteria will apply in the order stated: a Children who reside in St Oliver Plunkett Parish or Hannahstown Parish and whose siblings attended St Oliver Plunkett Playgroup and for whom the playgroup is their first choice b Children who reside in St Oliver Plunkett Parish or Hannahstown Parish and whose siblings attended St Oliver Plunkett Primary School and for whom the playgroup is their first choice c Children whose parents are employed in a permanent capacity in St. Oliver Plunkett Primary School and St Oliver Plunkett Pre-School d Children who reside in St Oliver Plunkett Parish and for whom the playgroup is their first choice e Children who reside in Hannahstown Parish and for whom the playgroup is their first choice f If oversubscription occurs in any one criteria, then children will be selected in random alphabetical order as written on the child’s birth certificate M R Q N H B W MAC MC E C Z G X T O Y D L S V I F U J K A P Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Oliver Plunkett Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 219 SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL PRE- SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 169 LIGONIEL ROAD BELFAST BT14 8DP Telephone No: 028 9071 3401 The Saint Vincent de Paul Pre-school playgroup is Catholic maintained and is situated within the campus of Saint Vincent de Paul Parish Parochial Hall on the Ligoniel Road. The purpose of the pre-school playgroup is to serve the needs of pre-school children from St Vincent de Paul Parish. It follows the DENI curricular guidance for the Pre-School curriculum and provides a safe, caring and stimulating learning environment where each child is recognized as an individual. All children are respected and encouraged to fulfil their potential through a well planned, balanced programme of play activities, events and trips which facilitate and enhance the all round development and progress of each child. The playgroup operates on a term-time basis and works in conjunction with primary school breaks. The playgroup session is 9.00am – 1.00pm. Staff numbers and qualifications An Early Years Specialist 1 Playgroup Manager 5 Early Year Assistants NVQ Level 3 Curriculum Saint Vincent de Paul Pre-School Playgroup offers a wide and balanced curriculum to meet the children’s needs, exploring, through play, the following areas: The Arts; Physical Development and Movement; Personal, Social and Emotional Development; Language Development; Early Mathematical Experiences; The World Around Us Special Educational Needs Policy and Provisions: It is the policy of Saint Vincent de Paul Pre-school Playgroup to consider the children with special educational needs for enrolment and to accommodate these children in the playgroup, if after assessment it is felt that there is sufficient staff and physical resources to deal with their early education and care. The playgroup staff will endeavour to meet the special educational needs of any child after admission to the group. Admissions Criteria The pre-school playgroup is registered with Social Services and is also participating in the preschool Education Expansion Programme. 220 *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. We allocate places under the following criteria: In the event of over subscription the following sub-criteria will apply in the order stated: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: A. Children who reside in Saint Vincent de Paul parish and whose siblings attended Saint Vincent de Paul Nursery Unit or Pre-School Playgroup and for whom the Pre-School Playgroup is their first choice. B. Children who reside in Saint Vincent de Paul Parish and whose siblings have previously attended Saint Vincent de Paul Primary School and for whom the pre-school playgroup is their first choice. C. Children whose parents are employed in a permanent capacity in Saint Vincent de Paul Primary School and Saint Vincent de Paul Pre-School Playgroup. D. Children who reside in Saint Vincent de Paul and for whom the Playgroup is their first choice. If over subscription occurs in any one criteria, then children will be selected random in Alphabetical order as written on their birth certificate. H F S V T K J D M N I A C O Q P U Y X (Mac Mc) Z E B L R G W Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to St Vincent de Paul Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 221 SPRINGFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL PLAYGROUP SPRINGFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL 425 SPRINGFIELD ROAD BELFAST BT12 7DJ Telephone No: 07582291807 Email: [email protected] Playgroup Leader Mrs Shirley Menabney Springfield Primary School Playgroup is situated in a ground floor classroom in Springfield Primary School. Springfield Playgroup has been in operation since 2005 and through continuous development we are able to provide an afternoon session as well for younger children. The sessions are organised to provide a variety of play opportunities to enable children to learn through play. Aims of the Playgroup We aim to provide an environment which is inclusive regardless of age, which encourages development through a range of age appropriate activities, helping children to grow in confidence and to build self-esteem. We aim to work in partnership with parents recognising that you are the first educators of your child. We aim to provide the highest standard of childcare where each individual child achieves the greatest level of personal development that he/she is capable of. We create a caring, safe and stimulating environment where each child will develop physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. This, together with the many skills they will acquire during the time in pre-school will mean that the transition to school will be as effortless as possible. They will also have a familiar and varied routine, enabling them to cope more readily with the school day. This will be achieved through quality experiences in an attractive environment by qualified and committed staff. The Playgroup consists of a large, bright playroom which has resources covering the curriculum and progression throughout the year. There is a “quiet room” for story time and song time. We have access to all the facilities in the school and the use of the outdoor playground which has a wide range of suitable outdoor equipment. Opening Times Monday – Friday 8.55am – 12.15pm Monday – Thursday 1.00pm – 3.30pm Morning Session Friday 2.45pm Finish Afternoon Session Staffing The present leader is qualified to NVQ Level 3. There will be a ratio of at least 1:8 by assistants who are also trained to NVQ Level 3 and have considerable pre-school experience. Curriculum We have a monthly theme-based curriculum which is based on the six areas of learning from the Curriculum Guidance for Pre-School Expansion which are: Personal .Social and Emotional Development. 222 Language Development Mathematical Experiences The World around Us Physical Development Creative Development To support the staff, we receive advice and guidance from an early years specialist, social services and a very active management committee. We are inspected by the Education Training Inspectorate. Special Needs We welcome all children into our setting regardless of special need, religion or class. We will work with parents, carers and outside agencies to meet the needs of each child. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. We allocate places under the following criteria: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria (a) (b) (c) (d) Children who have attended Springfield Primary School Playgroup the previous year. Children who have had brothers or sisters at this playgroup. Children on the waiting list in order of chronological age. Children in alphabetical order. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Springfield Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 223 SPRINGHILL PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP SPRINGHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL 247 BALLYGOMARTIN ROAD BELFAST BT13 3NH Telephone Number: 028 90391987 Playgroup Leader - Sandra Paul Hours of opening The Playgroup operates 5 days a week from September to June Monday – Friday 9:00 – 1:00 The ethos of our Playgroup is ‘Valuing every child ‘ Springhill Playgroup is situated in Springhill Primary School, Ballygomartin Road. There are two adjoining classrooms, fully equipped with a wide range of activities to stimulate and encourage all children to achieve their full potential. We pride ourselves the strong links between the School and the Playgroup. The Playgroup is Social Services approved and Early Years Organisation affiliated, with registration allowing 24 children. We are also inspected by ETI (Education and Training Inspectorate). The Playgroup received a grade of ‘very good’ in a recent ETI Inspection. Curriculum Springhill Playgroup has developed a theme based Curriculum which is based on the six areas of learning from the Curricular Guidance for Pre-School Education. Our Curriculum is carefully planned to meet each Childs individual needs. Our work with the children will support their development in the six areas of learning. Personal, Social and Emotional Development Language Development The Arts Early Mathematical Development Physical development The World around us Staff The staff consists of a Leader, Deputy Leader and one Assistant all qualified to NVQ Level 3 and above. The staff to child ratio is 1:8. Our friendly and professional staff are currently upgrading their skills through training and are all committed to ensuring that all of our children learn and develop to the best of their ability. All staff have undergone Police and Health checks as laid down under the Children’s NI Order (1995). 224 Special Educational Needs We welcome children with Special needs and will work closely with parents and external agencies to meet the needs of each individual child within the setting. Staff are currently involved in the project with The Early Years Inclusion Team to enhance their skills and knowledge with Special Educational Needs and provide an inclusive environment. A monthly charge of £10 is levied to cover snack, cookery activities etc Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. As there are a limited number of free places available, the setting will apply the under noted admissions criteria; 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year; 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Children who have Springhill Playgroup as first preference b Children who have had siblings who previously attended the playgroup c Children of child-care workers employed by Springhill Playgroup d Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age. Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Springhill Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 225 STEPPING STONES PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP 722 ANTRIM ROAD BELFAST BT36 7GP Telephone No: 07526481688 Playgroup Leader: Tracey McNeill Curriculum Stepping Stones has developed a theme – based curriculum which is derived from “Northern Ireland Guidance for Pre-School Education.” The curriculum aims to provide a wide range of appropriate activities to promote each area of development, including a wide range of appropriate activities to promote each area of development, including: Personal, social and emotional development Physical development and movement The Arts Language development Early mathematical development The World Around Us The programme of activities is regularly reviewed to meet the individual needs of each child. Staff engage in professional development courses regularly to further their expertise. Aims of the Playgroup To provide a safe and stimulating environment to meet the needs of each individual child. To provide a happy and relaxed atmosphere with good relationships between staff, children and parents. To promote development in all areas through a broad and balanced range of activities, which will enable children to reach their full potential. To create such communication that will help and support parents in the development of their child. Dates and Times of Opening The playgroup operates five days a week from September to June. Monday - Friday 9:15am – 1:15pm A monthly charge of £12.50 is levied to cover snacks, cookery activities and visitors to the group. Special Needs It is the policy of the playgroup to admit children with special needs providing: The number of children with special needs may be catered for by staff, bearing in mind the needs of other children. 226 Professional advice is sought to enable staff to meet all the child’s requirements before he/she comes to group. Staff will work closely with parents and other professionals to ensure that all the needs of a child with Special needs will be met. Staff We have three full-time members of staff and one student: Supervisor NVQ level 3 Childcare and Education, ILM level 3 First Line Leadership Assistant 1 NVQ level 3 Childcare and Education Assistant 2 NVQ level 3 Childcare and Education Management and The playgroup also uses the Early Years Organisation for Young Children. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. As there is a limited number of free places available the following criteria will apply: 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate pre-school year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: 1 2 3 4 5 6 Children who have listed Stepping Stones as their first preference Children who currently attend the playgroup Children who already have or previously had a brother or sister attending the group Children whose mother/father attended the group Children who have a parent/carer employed by the group Children whose parent/guardian’s homes are closest to the nursey as measured by a straight line on an Ordanance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the nursery. An open day will be held in December. For more information contact Tracey McNeill on 07526481688 or 02890 775007. Waiting List Policy Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014, all applications for admission to Stepping Stones that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the publicized criteria applied.This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. 227 SUNSHINE PLAYGROUP CURRIE PRIMARY SCHOOL 111-113 LIMESTONE ROAD BELFAST BT15 3AB Telephone No: 02890 747982 Acting Principal: Mrs A Galway Leader in Charge: Mrs L Stewart Opening Times Monday to Friday 9.00am - 1.30pm General Information The Sunshine Playgroup has an excellent facility, fully equipped with a wide range of activities to stimulate and encourage children to develop fully according to their individual needs. The central hall and library are timetabled for playgroup use during the week. A new outdoor play area provides many opportunities to enhance play outdoors. The staff are very caring and dedicated and there is a strong link between the school and playgroup. The curriculum will be developed in accordance with the Dept. of Education guidelines and covers the following: personal, social and emotional development, physical development, the arts, language development, early mathematical education, the world around us. Our playgroup provides opportunities for all children regardless of disability or learning difficulties, to enable them to progress at his/her own rate in all areas of the curriculum. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. The criteria will be applied in allocating places as follows: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year. 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. In the event of over subscription priority will be given to children Sub-Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a where brother/sister is currently or was formerly a pupil at Currie Primary School. 228 b whose parent/guardian is a former pupil of Currie Primary School. (Name and date of attendance). c where parent/guardian is in permanent employment at Currie Primary School. d children who in the opinion of the Board of Governors have special circumstances, considered in the following order: i A child who has one or both parents deceased ii A child whose parent has a serious long term illness (medical evidence required) iii Children who are twins (or other multiple births) e children who live in the immediate area of the school. Priority will be given those who live the shortest walking distance door to door as measured on an Ordnance Survey Map. f Other children in their immediate pre-school year on the basis of age (eldest first). Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Sunshine Playgroup that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 229 T.L.C NURSERY 152 CAVEHILL ROAD BELFAST BT15 5EX Telephone No: 028 9028 2249 Playgroup Leader: Christine Singh/Colette Loughran Curriculum We have a monthly theme based curriculum which is based on the six areas of learning from the curriculum guidance for pre-school education. Opening times The pre-school will operate Monday-Friday: 9.00-11.30am funded 11.30-12.30pm supplement charge only if parent wishes to avail of this extra hour Charges A monthly charge if £10 is levied to cover snacks, cookery activities and visitors to the group. Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. We allocate places under the following criteria; 1 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011 whose parent(s)/guardian(s) are from socially disadvantaged circumstances*. 2 Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011. In the event of the school being over-subscribed within any of the above criteria the following subcriteria will be applied. Sub-criteria (a) Children attending this playgroup (b) Children in alphabetical order by their surname as listed in the Belfast phone book. Waiting List Should a vacancy arise after 30 May 2014 all applications for admission in 2014 that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the above criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. We will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the setting by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 230 THE 174 TRUST PRE-SCHOOL DUNCAIRN AVENUE BELFAST BT14 6BP Telephone No: 028 9074 7114 Fax No: 0289074 9299 Playgroup Leader: Evelyn McCarthy Curriculum Our topic-based curriculum has been carefully planned and is reviewed to ensure all children have access to a wide range of stimulating play activities. We aim to offer activities which promote learning in the six areas of development outlined within the “Curriculum Guidance for Pre-School Education” Personal, social and emotional development Physical development The Arts Language development Early mathematical development The World Around Us Opening Times The Playgroup operates Monday - Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm term time Staffing Numbers and Qualifications (1) (2) (3) Playgroup Co-ordinator - BTEC National Certificate in Childhood Studies and Highscope CTC Training Deputy Leader - NVQ 3 in Childhood Studies. Playgroup Assistant - BTEC National Certificate in Childhood Studies Special Needs The 174 Trust Playgroup welcomes children with special needs providing the number of children with special needs may be catered for by staff, bearing in mind the needs of other children. The interest of children with special needs into the group will be carefully planned and staff will work with professionals to devise individual educational plans if necessary. Every effort will also be made to integrate children with physical disabilities into the playgroup. 231 Admissions Criteria *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. We will allocate places using the following criteria; 1 2 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a b c Special factors ie. medical or social services. A brother/sister who has attended the Playgroup. Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to The 174 Trust that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The school will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the school by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the school if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 232 WEE CARE DAY NURSERIES 8 KINGS ROAD BELFAST BT5 6JJ Telephone Number: 02890582002 Pre-School Leader: Hannah Chapman Email: [email protected] Weecare Pre-School is located within a purpose built unit on the Kings Road. The Wee Care group has been established for over 25 years. Currently we offer a Pre-School programme from 9am to 11.30am. During this time play sessions are provided in order to stimulate and encourage the children’s growth and development in all areas of the curriculum. Aims: Here at Wee Care we strive to provide the best possible pre-school education programme for our children. A mix of highly trained, enthusiastic staff and age appropriate, curriculum based activities helps us to meet the educational, personal, social and emotional needs of the children in our care. We aim to create an environment where the children’s development is paramount. We aim to work alongside parents in all that we do and highly encourage their involvement at each level. Creating a well-structured, planned environment enables the children’s development to flourish in a setting where they feel safe, valued and cared for. All places will be offered on a part time basis in a morning session from 9am-11.30am. However nursery care is provided on a daily basis Monday- Friday 7.30am- 6pm. (Normal fees will be applied for remaining hours) The Pre-school is run by a pre-school leader who has been with Wee Care for 13 years and is currently studying a degree in Early Childhood Education. There are two pre- School assistants, one qualified with a degree in Early Years Education and another who has achieved her level 3 ccld qualifications. All staff have been in the Pre-School room for a length of time and work 35-40 hours each week. Child ratio is at least 1:8. Management at Wee Care are highly dedicated to ensuring all legal requirements of the Pre-School are adhered to at all times. As a team they are very supportive of staff and parents involved in the setting. Admissions Criteria: *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. In the event of oversubscription places will be offered on the following basis: 1. Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances*, in their immediate Pre-School year. 2. Other children in their immediate pre-School year. 233 Sub-Criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a Children who have listed Wee Care as their first preference b Children who currently attend Wee Care c Children who already have or previously had a brother or sister attending Wee Care d Children who have a parent/carer employed by Wee Care e Children whose parent/guardian’s homes are closest to the nursery as measured by a straight line on an Ordnance Survey Map from the front door of the child’s home to the front door of the nursery. Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Wee Care that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in Wee Care Pre-School by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Nursery will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the Nursery’s admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 234 WISHING WELL FAMILY CENTRE 7- 9 ALLIANCE CRESCENT BELFAST BT14 7PL Telephone No: 02890 740454 Fax No: 02890 740454 Playgroup Leader: Muriel Dalzell Hours of Opening Monday – Friday 9.00am – 12noon (September – June) Wishing Well Family Centre is a locally based integrated, community organisation that offers support to families, responding in a caring and open way to social, educational, economic and environmental needs within our community. The Curriculum The Wishing Well Family Centre provides a wide range of activities for the pre-school group following the Curricular Guidance for Pre-School Education. Our Pre-School Curriculum aims to provide appropriate activities promoting each of the following areas:1. Personal, Social and Emotional Development 2. Mathematics 3. Knowledge and Understanding of the World 4. Creative Development 5. Communication, Language and Literacy 6. Physical Development We encourage children to explore all areas and develop and recreate learning experiences that help them to make sense of the world. Our staff support the children in practising and building up ideas, concepts and skills. This is reviewed and amended on a regular basis to ensure each child’s individual needs are being met. Staffing There are three members of staff and one trainee, the leader and deputy leader both holding an NVQ Level 3. All staff are fully vetted and are constantly up-dating their training. Special Educational Needs Policy and Provision At Wishing Well Family Centre we aim to promote an inclusive environment where all the children, whatever their needs, can learn and develop in a happy, caring and educational environment. If the educational and/or developmental progress of a child is causing concern we would first discuss this with the parent. This concern may arise through general observations or through our progressive play system. 235 With the consent and assistance from the parents we would liaise with the parents, the Centre Manager, the Early Years Manager and other professionals involved with the child. We would with parental consent, monitor the child closely and keep up-to-date, accurate records. Admissions Criteria The admissions criteria is intended to enable the Wishing Well Pre-school Nursery to make objective decisions about which children to admit to the nursery if more applications are received than places available. *A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; where an award of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged circumstances’. Children should be admitted to places in the following order: 1 Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* who are in their immediate preschool year; 2 Other children in their immediate pre-school year. Sub-criteria If applications meeting the statutory criteria exceed the number of funded places available, the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down: a b c d e f Children who are currently enrolled in Wishing Well Whether a brother or sister is attending the setting Whether a brother or sister has attended the setting Children who have a parent/guardian employed by Wishing Well Children who have previously attended Wishing Well Any remaining places will be allocated in order of age – Eldest first. Waiting List Should a vacancy arise after Friday 30 May 2014 all applications for admission to Wishing Well Family Centre that were initially refused, new applications, late applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equally and the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2015. The setting will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in by this method. Your child’s name will be automatically added to the list. Please contact the setting if you wish for your child’s name to be removed from the list. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Management will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to our admissions criteria is stated on the application form or attached to it. 236
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