1. education
2. school

Danescourt Primary School and Nursery
Danescourt Way,
Llandaff
Cardiff
CF5 2SN,
Tel. 029 20552422
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: www.danescourtprm.cardiff,sch.uk
Chair of Governors- Dr. Dirk Wilson
Headteacher- Judith Davies
Deputy Headteacher – Abi Beacon
Office Manager- Taz Thomas
School Administrator- Claire Thorne
Estates Manager- Mike Kelland
Contents
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School Information
Welcome from Headteacher
What We Can Offer as a School
Home and School- Working in Partnership
Our Vision for the future of Danescourt Primary
School
Admission to Danescourt Primary School
Entry into the Reception Class
What will your child learn?
Pupil wellbeing and Safeguarding
Extra- Curricular Opportunities
Pupil Voice
Equal Opportunities
Children with Additional Needs
Homework
Lunchtime Arrangements
School Uniform
Health and Safety
Behaviour in School
Attendance in School
School Links with the Community
Roles and Responsibilities
Management of the School
Times of the School Day
Complaints Procedure
A Warm Welcome to Danescourt Primary School
Croeso Cynnes I Ysgol Gynradd Danescourt
A Letter of Welcome from the Headteacher
We are very pleased to welcome new parents and pupils to Danescourt Primary School, a
school where we have high expectations of children and where we do our best to ensure that they
are happy and enjoy their time in school.
We recognise that every child has different skills and talents and we work hard to ensure that
every pupil reaches their potential and develops into a resourceful learner. We also support our
pupils in developing confidence and patience, determination, tolerance and inter-personal skills to
help them to succeed not only in school, but beyond into adult life in an ever changing world.
Our School motto is ‘Nurturing, Growing, Thriving’! In order for us to realise this for pupils and
staff alike we are constantly reviewing everything we do to ensure we continue to offer the best
quality of education possible.
As a school we actively engage in improving as a learning community; pupils, parents, governors
and staff continue to move forward together, confident and proud of their achievements to date
and with clear ideas about where further improvements can be made.
Our success starts with the children and the families we serve, extending to all adults who work
for our school: Teachers and teaching assistants work in partnership to create a climate of
learning, supportive relationships and a stimulating learning environment. This will continue to
develop over the forthcoming years.
If you would like to learn more about the school can I recommend that you visit our website,
www.danescourtprm.sch.uk which will give you a really good flavour of what we offer as
Working in partnership with parents, we aim to offer wide-ranging opportunities to further
children's academic, personal and social development. We try to find ways, wherever possible, to
involve you as parents in the life and work of the school and to keep you well- informed about
your child’s progress.
Our school aspires to be a community school. We have close links with churches, charities and
organisations within the area.
You are always welcome in school to discuss any concerns and problems. If you wish to see the
class teacher, you may be able to do this informally at the beginning or end of the school day.
Otherwise I would ask you to arrange an appointment by telephoning the School office. If you wish
to speak with me, you are warmly invited to school to make an appointment if I am not
immediately available to meet you.
We hope that you and your children will enjoy your time as a member of our school community .
Judith M. DaviesHeadteacher/ Prifathrawes
What We Can Offer as a School
Beth Mae Ein Hysgol Ni Yn Ei Gynnig
Setting/ LLeoliad
The school serves the Danescourt housing estate on the edge of the suburb of the historic village
of Llandaff. The area affords easy access to the Taff Trail and has excellent rail, road and bus links
into the city centre and a safe and pleasant environment in which to live.
The Buildings / Yr Adeiladau
Our school is housed in a large single storey building which was extensively refurbished in 2009
following the amalgamation and extension of the existing infant and junior schools. The school
offers exceptional accommodation for pupils with all classes being housed in airy, well-equipped
learning areas with access to the outside learning environment.
The Nursery is housed in its own building with an extensive outdoor area and idyllic garden.
Classes within the Foundation Phase (School Years Reception, Year 1 and Year 2) are housed in
attractive open plan learning areas all with easy access to outdoor learning.
Key Stage 2 classes (Years 3-6) are accommodated in distinct classrooms, again with outdoor
access. The school has two library areas, a large hall and drama space and an impressive computer
suite. All classrooms and shared areas are also equipped with interactive white boards and data
projectors. Each class also has use of a number of iPads to support their learning.
The whole school is set in extensive grounds with playgrounds, fields, an outside classroom, trim
trail and play equipment.
We aspire to be an Eco- School having gained the silver award this year we hope to become an
accredited eco school during this school year.
We believe strongly in pupil voice and have an active Eco-Committee and School Council who are
fully involved in discussion and decision making within school as well as a School Nutrition Action
Group (SNAG) and a learning Forum all made up of pupils from Year 2 to 6.
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Home and School - Working in Partnership
Cantref a’r Ysgol- Gweithio mewn Partneriaeth
We believe that an effective partnership between home and school is essential if children are to achieve
their full potential. When your child starts school we ask you to sign a Home-School Agreement - a
commitment towards working together for the good of your child. Your copy is in the back of this folder
and you will be asked to return it to school.
We will keep you well informed about your child's progress and we value your interest and support. You
will receive regular newsletters to help ensure that you always know about school events and activities.
Most parents opt to have letters sent home electronically.
We also offer regular curriculum workshops for parents, offering information about how we teach specific
aspects of the curriculum and how you can support your child at home.
Approximately once a term, you will receive an invitation to view your children's work in the classroom. In
addition to this, an informal Parents’ Evening is held in the Autumn Term.
Parent-Teacher consultations take place during in the Spring Term and parents of all pupils are sent
annual reports at the end of the school year. Parents are offered an opportunity to discuss these reports
with the class teacher.
Parent School Association / Cymdeithas Rhieni’r Ysgol
Invaluable support for our school comes from our active ‘PTA’- Parent Teacher Association.
This is a thriving organisation of parents, teachers and friends of the school who work together in the interests of our children.
All members strive to foster strong relationships among parents and teachers, governors and friends of school. They also
organise fund raising activities to support the school.
Quiz nights, fayres, auctions and discos are just some of the events aimed at strengthening the links between home and school.
Money raised by the PTA is used throughout the school to buy resources that enhance the curriculum that our school budget
cannot stretch to. Funds raised also enable us to subsidise ‘one off’ events such as visits from musical groups or theatre
companies.
You can keep up to date with events planned by visiting the PTA page on our Website.
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Nurturing, Growing, Thriving
Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Danescourt Primary School aspires to be;
 A pioneer in education with high aspirations
 At the heart of our community working in partnership to provide a welcoming , motivating learning
experience for all
 A provider of a vibrant, relevant curriculum where everyone is challenged and inspired to shine
Our aims for pupils as learners are that they;
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Develop a strong sense of who they are, whilst respecting individuality, and are proud to be part of a
school in Wales.
Are active learners who understand how they learn best, know how to improve and apply their skills to new
situations and are rooted in positive attitudes that will shape them for life
Be numerate and literate with a thirst for learning
Show a curiosity and concern for the environment and recognise their responsibilities as global citizens
Show resilience, independent thinking skills and creativity and the confidence and ability to articulate and
reason
Have a growing ability to respond to a changing world and are equipped for the challenges of a
technological age
Our school ethos is one that
 Promotes mutual respect, tolerance, empathy and teamwork
 Models high standards and sets high expectations of learning, teaching and behaviour
 Values each individual child, nurturing development and growth
 Creates a safe and caring environment where everyone is included and has the opportunity to blossom
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Admission to Danescourt Primary School
Mynediad i Ysgol Gynradd Danescourt
Danescourt Primary School admits most of its pupils from the local catchment area, as defined by Cardiff
County Council Local Education Authority, which covers the Danescourt Housing Estate.
The capacity of the school is determined by the Local Authority, based on the total teaching area available
for children. Danescourt Primary School is able to admit up to 60 children into the Reception age group
each year.
The Local Authority’s policy for admission requires that priority be given to children of families
permanently resident in the catchment area. If there are more children in the catchment area seeking a
place than there are places available, then the Local Authority will give priority to those living closest to
the school and to those with siblings already in the school.
We welcome applications from families living outside the catchment area when places are available.
In such cases, Cardiff Council makes every effort to accept those children who already have brothers or
sisters at the school. Unsuccessful applicants have the right of appeal to an independent appeals
committee. The school currently has places in most year groups within school.
The Local Authority’s admission is available from the Pupil Admissions Section at County Hall, Atlantic
Wharf, Cardiff, CF10 4UW 02920 872909 or on the Cardiff County Council Website on www.cardiff.gov.uk
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Entry into the Reception Class
Mynediad mewn i’r Dosbarth Derbyn
Children enter the Reception class in the September after their fourth birthday. Prior to entry you will be
given the opportunity to visit the Reception class with your child and to meet the class teacher. This offers
an opportunity to share with the teacher information about the child's development and any concerns
parents may have.
Following this, children are admitted over a period of a few days. We find that this period of gradual
induction helps children to settle quickly into the new routines of school, and supports them as they ‘find
their feet’.
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What Will Your Child Learn?
Beth Fydd Eich Plentyn yn ei Ddysgu?
We work hard to ensure that all children are given a wide range of experiences during their time at
Danescourt Primary. We offer a curriculum which is broad, balanced and differentiated to meet individual
needs and abilities.
National Curriculum / Cwricwlwm Cenedlaethol
In line with the National Curriculum, all children in Key Stage 2 are taught the following subjects:
English
Welsh 2nd Language
Music
Mathematics
Geography
Physical Education
Science
History
Design and Technology
Information Technology
Art and Design
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Some subjects such as English (Literacy) and Mathematics (Numeracy) are taught both as discrete
subjects and as skills across the curriculum. Other subjects are often taught in a themed approach which
we call ‘Contexts for Learning’. This enables us to teach a skilled based curriculum across the subject
divides. Recent themes in the Foundation Phase have included ;Happiness, Community Explorer, Electric
Rainbow and Superheroes whilst in Key Stage 2 they have included Travel Agents, Potions, Summer
Camp, Blitz and 999 Emergency.
Pupils in Year 6 learn French as a foreign language. We are also required to teach Religious Education
Individual curriculum policies are available for parents at school.
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Foundation Phase / y Cyfnod Sylfaen
This is the name given to the Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes. Children are not just taught
discrete subjects but their learning experiences are planned to ensure that learning objectives are meet in
7 important areas ;
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Personal and Social Development
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Language, Literacy and Communication
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Mathematical Development
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Knowledge and Understanding of the World
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Physical Development
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Creative Development
and
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Bi-lingualism- Welsh Second Language
Information Technology is taught through these
areas of learning.
These areas taught sometimes as a class but often in small groups or individually. Much of their learning
takes place through structured learning activities.
Young children learn a great deal through structured play activities. They learn about different materials,
about shapes, sizes, colours, similarities and differences and the various categories or groups to which
objects may belong. They also gain experience of role-play, interacting with each other and with adults.
They learn to express their feelings and to co-operate with each other; such activities are an important
part of their development. Often skills from across a range of subjects are taught through a context for
learning or themed approach.
Danescourt Primary School also has a strong musical tradition. Children from Year 2 upwards are
welcome to join the thriving school choir which takes part in local festivals and competitions as well as
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performing regularly in school concerts. Pupils also have the opportunity to learn the violin, brass
instruments, guitar, flute and clarinet within school. We have a thriving school orchestra which will take
centre stage at our first school proms this summer!
The school benefits from an excellent- sized hall, playgrounds and fields which means that the physical
education programme continues uninterrupted all year round. We also have a newly built MUGA (MultiUse Games Area) which we share with the whole Danescourt Community.
Pupils enjoy a good range of sports within PE lessons including football, netball, tennis and athletics with
the emphasis being on skill building and small team games. The school extra- curricular programme
currently includes sporting opportunities such as cross- country, athletics, football, Karate, Dance and
netball.
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Religious Education / Addysg Grefyddol
We are required to teach Religious Education. In common with all Local Authority schools in Cardiff, we
follow the L.E.A. agreed syllabus which is appropriate for all children, irrespective of their cultural or
religious background.
It is also statutory for all pupils to take part in a daily act of collective worship. This is “wholly or mainly of
a Christian character”. (Welsh Office circular November 1993). Assemblies are regularly led by children
from specific classes and parents of these classes are invited to join us on such occasions.
(Parents have the right to withdraw their children from assemblies and also from lessons in Religious
Education.)
Welsh / Cymraeg
All children learn Welsh as part of the National Curriculum. We recognise the need for children to practise
these new language skills and we regularly use incidental Welsh through the school day. Other areas of
the curriculum, such as history and geography, music and art, offer opportunities to share an
understanding of Welsh culture and customs, history and traditions.
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Information Technology /Technoleg Gwybodaeth
We have a well -equipped Computer Suite, catering for a full class of children. Here children have
timetabled lessons in the skills of Information Technology and apply the skills they have learnt by using
their IT skills to support their learning in other areas of the curriculum. Pupils make good use of mobile
tablets across the curriculum.
We often publish photographs and sometimes pupils’ work on our school website. Children are not
identified by their full name.
When your child is admitted to school we will ask you to sign a consent form giving permission for your
child to make supervised access to the internet and to have their work and/or photo published on the
school website and in the local press.
Health Education & Sex Education / Addysg Iechyd ac Addysg Rhyw
All classes study aspects of Health Education as an intrinsic part of the curriculum. Children are taught the
importance of a healthy diet and of the need to exercise regularly, the need to care for the body and of
the dangers of cigarettes, alcohol and illegal substances.
We have recently reviewed our Policy for Sex Education and this is available in school if you wish to read
it. This aspect of Health Education is taught partly within the Science curriculum and partly within the
curriculum for Personal and Social Education (P.S.E.).
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Pastoral Care and Discipline /Gofal Bugeiliol a Disgyblaeth
Teachers work in partnership with parents to assist children to develop into caring and responsible people
enjoying positive attitudes and good relationships with others.
We follow the ‘Good to be Green’ behaviour programme in school. We try not to impose a large number
of rules which can be confusing for children. However, we do expect children to conform to the high
expectations we have of them. We expect them to work and play together harmoniously in a happy
school environment and to treat all members of the school community with courtesy and respect. Our
school rules are designed to ensure the safety and well being of the children, to promote effective
learning and to encourage care for the environment.
The class teacher has responsibility for the pastoral care of children and will work with them to enhance
their social education and awareness. If parents are concerned about their child’s behaviour or emotional
well-being they are urged to contact the Headteacher to discuss any difficulties.
Equally, if the school is concerned about any aspect of a child’s behaviour we usually invite parents to
school to discuss any issues which have arisen.
Safeguarding/ Diogelu
The safeguarding and wellbeing of our pupils is of paramount importance to us. The school has a
comprehensive safeguarding Policy which is available from the school or on our website. Our Child
Protection Policy is reviewed each year and all staff receive annual training in Child Protection. Our
designated Child Protection officer is Mrs. Davies our Headteacher and Mrs. Beacon, our Deputy
Headteacher is our Deputy Child Protection Officer. Please contact Mrs. Davies with any concerns or Mrs.
Beacon if Mrs. Davies is unavailable.
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Extra- Curricular Activities / Gweithgareddau Allgyrsiol
Teachers and Teaching Assistants at Danescourt acknowledge the importance of striving for high
standards ensuring that every child reaches his or her full potential. They understand too, the importance
of developing the whole child and we pride ourselves on the wide range of additional opportunities which
we offer children after school.
Current opportunities include; Football, Rugby, Netball, Drama, Dance, Eco Club, Science Club, Choir, Urdd
(Welsh Club), Creative Club and Karate.
At the beginning of each term, all parents receive details of the curriculum and of extra curricular
activities for the forthcoming year. Parents who have any queries or concerns about the extra- curricular
programme are invited to discuss this with Mrs. Davies.
All pupils are placed in a house or team on their arrival at school and Sports Day and our Eisteddfod as
well as a weekly House Points Competition are run as inter-house competitions. Our houses are;
Snowdonia Superstars (yellow), Presili Pirates (red), Cambrian Celts (green) and Brecon Bulldogs (blue.)
Pupils are usually placed in the same house as any siblings in school.
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Pupil Voice/Llais y Disgyblion
As a school, we are committed to pupils having a voice and making a difference to their own learning.
Groups of pupils represent their peers on the School Council, Eco Committee and SNAG (School
Nutrition Action Group) which make decisions that influence the life of pupils within school. In
addition, the school has a Learning Forum where learning initiatives and strategies are discussed and
evaluated by pupils.
Equal Opportunities / Cyfleoedd Cyfartal
We believe that all individuals deserve equal opportunities. We aim therefore to structure the
curriculum, the organisation and the management of the school so that all at school are offered equal
opportunities for participation and for inclusion, for advancement and for growth, regardless of gender
or social class, race or religion, age or disability.
We seek to foster a climate of equality, underpinned by a policy which is supported by staff, by
governors, and by parents.
The governors and staff of Danescourt Primary School endeavour to eliminate discrimination. To this
end, Governors and staff have agreed and adopted an Equal Opportunities Policy which is available on
request.
These principles underpin the school's vision and ethos. We strive to foster an understanding and
appreciation of the diverse cultures within our society.
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We believe that by introducing a multicultural perspective into the curriculum we will:
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enrich the education of all children
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give children opportunities to view the world from a wider perspective
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help children to question prejudice.
We aim also to:
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provide equal opportunities for all pupils and adult, irrespective of gender or ability,
culture, race or religion.
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cater whenever possible for the special needs of pupils and adults in ways which make
accessible not only the curriculum, but also extra curricular activities and buildings.
Governors are working to make the school more accessible and have agreed an Accessibility Plan, in
line with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act and are keen to work with people in the
community who have a disability to ensure that needs are fully understood and met.
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Children with Additional Needs
Plant ag Anghenion Addysgol Arbennig
Pupils have different strengths and abilities, particular needs and weaknesses. Some pupils show
academic ability early and need to be encouraged and appropriately challenged. Others need extra
support to overcome relative weaknesses in Literacy or Numeracy.
We work hard to identify these children and to make appropriate provision for them in line with our
Additional Learning Needs Policy. This incorporates the statutory Code of Practice for Special Needs
and aims to provide equal access to the curriculum for all children. Account is taken of individual
needs through appropriate differentiation of the curriculum both in the classroom and where
appropriate, in an individual or small group situation. We stress the importance of involving parents at
every level of their children's education and of identifying a child's special needs at an early stage. In
liaison with parents, the class teacher and Special Needs Co-ordinator work to devise Individual
Education Programmes, (I.E.P.s) where appropriate.
Mrs. A. Beacon, Deputy Headteacher is the school ALNco (Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator)
and we currently have six teaching assistants working specifically supporting pupils with special
educational needs some on a one to one and others on a small group basis. Further funding is used to
employ the services of specialist members of the Achievement and Inclusion service, e.g. Educational
Psychologists and Specialist Teachers as appropriate.
The admission of children with special educational needs is arranged with parents in full consultation
with the Headteacher, and with the support of services provided by the Local Authority. We seek to
ensure that all children with special educational needs are fully integrated into the academic and social
life of the school.
The schools policies for Special Educational Needs and for More Able and Talented Pupils are available
on request from school.
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Homework / Gwaith Cartref
Our pupils work hard at school and so need time for relaxation and recreation at home. For this reason
we do not set homework for homework’s sake at Danescourt Primary School. At the same time we do
recognise its value in involving you as parents in your child’s learning and in helping your child develop
into a resourceful and independent learner and in preparing pupils for secondary school life.
Foundation Phase / Cyfnod Sylfaen
The following tasks will be given on a regular basis;
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Home tasks - variety of activities linked to the term topic or weekly numeracy and literacy
focus.
Reading books and library books to read and share at home
In nursery and reception the ‘class mates’ are regularly taken home and pupils add to the
journal with their parents assistance
Spelling lists and key word lists appropriate to each child’s development (Years 1 and 2.)
Learn its- key mathematical facts as an extension of our ‘Big Maths’ programme in school.
Multiplication tables will be given to learn and practice from Year 2 onwards.
Website links are provided on the curriculum pages for each year group to follow up learning
currently taking place in school
Key Stage 2 / Cyfnod Allweddol 2
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All children will take home books, which we expect them to read. Reading of books only during
school time is not sufficient for any child, they should also be encouraged to read as much as
possible, from a diversity of reading material from comics to reference books.
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Children may also be asked to read specific chapters or books relevant to their main literacy
focus in class.
All children will be given a weekly spelling list to learn, appropriate to their stage of
development.
All children will be given mathematical tasks or multiplication tables, when necessary, to
consolidate new concepts learned in class.
All pupils will be encouraged to research additional information relevant to different learning
contexts and to complete activities to complement work on going in the classroom.
Learn its- key mathematical facts as an extension of our ‘Big Maths’ programme in school.
Multiplication tables will be given to learn and practice.
Website links are provided on the curriculum pages for each year group to follow up learning
currently taking place in school
Key Stage 2 pupils who do not complete the set amount of work during class time, due to
inappropriate behaviour or attitudes, will be given the tasks to complete for homework.
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Homework tasks will not be set in the school holidays except in the summer holiday prior to
pupils transferring to secondary school as it is recognised that extended learning tasks put
pressure on families leisure time together
Instead during term time tasks will take the form of research, investigations, design/making,
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games or problem solving given regularly.
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In addition, Year 6 will be given regular weekly homework in the core subjects and/or
foundation subject, as required, to prepare them for the transition to secondary school.
Pupils in Years 5 and 6 will be given a homework planner and be expected to learn to use these
to support their learning and their organisation skills in preparation for secondary education.
Pupils with an IDP/IEP may have additional tasks to reinforce next step learning which is very
specific to them.
In line with the home School Agreement signed by all parents when your children became pupils at
Danescourt Primary, we expect you to support your son and daughter as they complete home learning
tasks and ensure that they are returned to school at the time requested.
We ask that work be completed according to the school presentation policy, neatly and in pencil or blue
pen as appropriate and that any art work is completed in coloured pencil unless instructed differently
and returned to school on time.
We rely on the support of parents to provide their children with an appropriate place to complete
homework free from as many distractions as possible.
Work in Nursery, Reception and Year 1 will be added to a scrap book style homework book whilst from
Y2 homework sheets will be stored in a homework folder but may be displayed in pupils’ books within
school.
Homework will be acknowledged by teaching staff which may take the form of Teacher initials or
marking as a whole class or peer marking. Homework completed well will be praised and may be
rewarded with house points. There may be issues arising from the work which the class teacher will
follow up in lesson time.
If pupils are consistently not returning homework then the class teacher will contact parents to
ascertain the reason why and if we can offer any support within school.
It is our aim that home learning supports and enhances the learning that takes place in school and
promotes curiosity for learning and independence.
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Lunchtime Arrangements
Trefniadau Amser Cinio
Many of our pupils choose to have dinner prepared in the school kitchens. This is strongly
recommended.
Dinner money is collected on Monday morning for meals ordered in the current week. Children should
bring the correct cash payment or cheque made payable to CARDIFF COUNTY COUNCIL. Payments
should be brought in an envelope marked with the child’s name and class. Credits are allowed for
absences. Currently children pay £9.00 per week.
Many parents find it more convenient to pay half -termly in advance. (Further details available from
Mrs. C.Thorne administrator.)
Children of families who are in receipt of income support or job seekers' allowance (income based) are
entitled to free school meals. We seek to ensure that this is confidential between the school and
parents, though it is sometimes necessary to inform the Headteacher and the class teacher. Families
are encouraged to send a weekly envelope enclosing the child's name. This is submitted to the office
and ensures that the children in receipt of free school meals follow the same procedures as their peers
and do not feel different.
Provision is also made for pupils bringing packed lunches. Mid-day supervisors are on duty to ensure
the safety of pupils remaining in school at lunchtime.
We strongly recommend that children in Reception classes have school lunches. We find that they
enjoy the variety and they usually eat more!
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School Uniform /Gwisg Ysgol
All children are asked to wear our uniform. Uniform is available from Joyell’s in Whitchurch Village or
YC Sports in Canton.
Our uniform consists of;
Royal Blue sweatshirt or cardigan with school logo, white polo shirt with school logo, black or dark grey
trousers, shorts or skirt, blue checked summer dresses and black shoes. If preferred, cheaper super
market alternatives to the sweatshirts/cardigans and polo shirts can be bought without the logo.
Book bags and PE kit bags are also available with the school logo.
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Health and Safety / Iechyd a Diogelwch
School Security
o In the interests of pupil security, all external doors are fitted with a locking mechanism and
access control system. The main door also has an access control system.
o An access control system is fitted on our main gates.
o All classrooms are connected to an internal telephone system.
o The external buildings are monitored 24 hours a day by CCTV.
o For safety reasons, parents are not permitted to park or drop off their children in the staff car
parks.
We make every attempt to ensure the safety of pupils throughout the school day, including
playtimes and lunchtimes. Teachers regularly emphasise the need for pupils to cross roads using
the zebra crossing, and that they should never respond to approaches from strangers.
o
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Children and staff practise regular Fire Drill.
Dogs, other than guide dogs, must not be brought onto school premises
The Health and Safety Policy is available for parents on request.
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Behaviour in School / Ymddygiad yn yr Ysgol
As a school, we have high expectations of pupil behaviour and expect our pupils to show good
manners at all times. The behaviour of our pupils is generally excellent and is often commented upon
when we are outside school.
As a school we only make rules that are essential for safety reasons or to ensure that routines within
the school day are carried out in a calm and orderly way. We always try to explain to children why
such a rule exists.
There is a clear set of sanctions and rewards in place to deter unacceptable behaviour and to reward
and encourage good behaviour. Staff continually praise and highlight good behaviour as a model to
children.
We use a very effective behaviour programme called ‘Good to be Green’ which encourages pupils to
maintain their green card status. Pupil’s whose behaviour is inappropriate are put on an amber
warning card for the rest of the learning session when if their behaviour returns to being acceptable
then their green card is earned. If however an inappropriate behaviour continues then a red card is
issued and a sanction is given.
Thankfully, red cards are rarely issued as the scheme quickly teaches pupils to regulate their own
behaviour.
With our Nursery and Reception pupils, we use red and green spot rugs on the carpet as a visual
reminder rather than using cards.
Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Attendance at School
Presenoldeb yn yr Ysgol
Regular attendance at school is essential if children are to reach their potential. We strongly advise
parents not to take children on holiday during term time. It inevitably has an adverse effect on their
progress at school. Cardiff Local Authority has recently issued guidance to schools instructing them to
record family holidays taken in term as unauthorised absences in all but the most exceptional
circumstances. Parents who plan to take children out of school are asked to complete a form
outlining details and reasons for the absence.
We seek to ensure that children also appreciate the importance of coming to school regularly.
Children who achieve excellent attendance through the year receive a certificate to commemorate
this. Each week the Governors’ attendance cups are awarded to the class in the Foundation Phase
and the class in Key Stage 2 with the best attendance that week.
Extended holidays become a matter for consideration by the L.E.A. We also have clear guidelines
from the Welsh Assembly which allow us to authorise absences for medical appointments, days of
religious observations, external examinations etc. You are advised however, "extensive amounts of
authorised absence can be just as damaging to continuity of learning as unauthorised absence.
Schools therefore need to authorise absence sparingly and only after careful consideration particularly
where pupils have a history of irregular attendance. (NAW (WO) circular 53/94)".
We urge parents, therefore, not to take children out of school unless it is unavoidable. Only in
specific circumstances, such as extended illness, can we provide appropriate work to be undertaken
at home.
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School Links with the Community
Cysylltiadau Ysgol â’r Gymuned
As a school, we have worked hard to develop very strong links with Radyr Comprehensive School and
with our partner primary schools. We aim to ensure a smooth transition for our Year 6 pupils as they
move to whichever their choice of Secondary School is. Visits are planned each year giving
opportunities to attend a range of Induction Days. Liaison projects enabling pupils to undertake
pieces of work which bridge Primary School to High School have been very successful. Liaison
Meetings take place between teachers of all local schools on a regular basis and each school has a
transition plan in place.
Radyr Comprehensive Teachers and other receiving high school staff, visit in the Summer Term to
meet the children of Year 6 and to consult with teachers. Teachers work hard to share all relevant
information with teachers of the receiving secondary school, in the knowledge that regular liaison
between teachers ensures progress and continuity during this important period of transition.
During their primary years, children have opportunities to listen to and work with a wide range of
people from various agencies. These include our community police officer, school nurse, the fire
brigade, cycling professionals and a range of artists and musicians. Many parents and governors with
specialist skills and knowledge come to school to work with children, and parents and helpers from
the community help regularly in the classroom.
Pupils have opportunities for developing economic and industrial awareness through visits and
surveys of local shops and businesses.
We are developing our links with industry and businesses, such links include Career Wales, Recycling
Projects and strong links with the Police Liaison Officer. We take part in a wide range of competitions
and support worthwhile causes.
We have strong links with local churches and welcome their ministers into school
assemblies as well as visiting their churches for R.E. and history studies.
We always welcome parents who are willing to share their skills and expertise with us!
Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
30
Roles and Responsibilities
Rôlau a Chyfrifoldebau
Much of the school’s planning focuses on the implementation of the National Curriculum. All teachers
share responsibility for this, both in the planning of teaching activities for their own class and in the coordination of specific aspects of the curriculum throughout the school. At present there are 325 pupils
on roll in our nursery, 5 Foundation Phase classes and 6 key stage classes. In the academic year 2013/14
the areas of responsibility were as follows:
Danescourt Primary School Structure 2013-14
School Leadership and Organisation
Staff and pupil welfare
Child Protection Officer
Discipline
Curriculum overview planning and organisation
Assessment and Thinking Skills Leader
Performance Management Leader
Training and Development Manager
Joint Health and Safety Officer
Additional Needs Co-ordinator
More Able and Talented Leader
Deputy Child Protection Officer
E Safety Officer
Teaching Assistant Mentor
Performance Management Team Leader
Equal Opportunities Co-ordinator
Learning Co-ordinator for Personal and Social
Development, Well Being and Cultural Diversity.
Mrs. Judith Davies
Headteacher
Mrs. Abi Beacon
Deputy Headteacher
Miss. Claire Lawton
Teacher
Class Teacher Year 1/2
Teaching and learning
Responsibility Holder
Learning Co-ordinator for Mathematical
Development
Teacher
Class Teacher Year 5/6
Teaching and learning
Responsibility Holder
Learning Coordinator for Language, Literacy and
Communication
Acting Transition Co-ordinator
Teacher
Class Teacher Year ½
Teaching and Learning
Responsibility Holder
E Learning Co-ordinator
Teacher
Class Teacher- Nursery
Teaching and Learning
Responsibility Holder
Learning Co-ordinator
Teacher
Class Teacher- Year R
Miss. Kate Haynes
Dr. Richard Thomas
Mrs. J. Deek
Mrs. R. Ford
Learning Co-ordinator for ESDGC
Mrs. Debbie Diment
Teacher (Job –Share)
Class Teacher Year R
Learning Co-ordinator Knowledge and
Understanding of the World
Mrs. Sarah Davies
Teacher (Job –Share)
Class Teacher Year R
Learning Co-ordinator for physical Development
Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Mrs. Amy Skuse
Teacher
Class Teacher- Year 1/2
Learning Co-ordinator for ICT
Mrs. Sam Pardoe
Teacher (Job –Share)
Class Teacher Year 3/4
Learning Co-ordinator for Language. Literacy and
Communication
Mrs. Juliet Johnson
Teacher (Job –Share)
Class Teacher Year 3/4
Learning Co-ordinator for Religious Education
Mrs. Sian Bell
Teacher Job –Share)
Class Teacher Year 3/4
Learning Co-ordinator for Knowledge and
Understanding of the World
Miss. Jac Williams
Teacher
Class Teacher Year 3/4
Learning Co-ordinator for Creative Development
Mrs. Kath Jenkins
Teacher
Mr. James Lavender
Teacher
Class Teacher Year 5/6
Learning Co-ordinator for Welsh and MFL
Class Teacher Year 5/6
Learning Co-ordinator for Mathematical
Development
Mrs. Mel Rees
Teacher (Job –Share)
Mr. Stephen James
Teacher
(Part Time)
PPA Teacher
Learning Co-ordinator for Physical Development
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Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
PPA Teacher
Learning Co-ordinator for Welsh
32
Mrs. Philippa Kerrigan
HLTA
Learning Support
Mrs. Carol Perkins
Teaching Assistant
Learning Support
Mrs. Karen Bowen
Teaching Assistant
Nursery
Miss. Loren Ellis
Teaching Assistant
Nursery
Miss. Laura Evans
Teaching Assistant
Nursery
Miss. Amber Pinnell
Teaching Assistant
Nursery
Mrs. Rose Moreno
Teaching Assistant
Reception
Mrs. Sharon Young
Teaching Assistant
Reception
Mrs. Bethan WilsonJones
Miss. Louise Nand
Teaching Assistant
Reception
Teaching Assistant
Nursery
Mrs. Jayne Williams
Teaching Assistant
(Job –Share)
Teaching Assistant and
Emotional Literacy Support
Assistant
(Job-Share)
Year 1/2
Mrs. Lisa Wade
Teaching Assistant
Year 1/2
Mrs. Linda Cheesman
Teaching Assistant
Year 1/2
Mrs. Sue Campbell
SEN 1:1
Year 1/2
Mrs. Sam Pearson
SEN 1:1
Key Stage 2
Miss. Taz Thomas
Office Manager
Mrs. Claire Thorne
School Administrator
Mr. Mike Kelland
Estates Manager
Midday Supervisors PT
Mrs. Alyson Davies, Mrs. Andrea Simmons, Mrs. Carey, Mrs. Brady,
Mrs.Said, Mrs. Wallace and Mrs. Sue Campbell
Mrs. Cheesman (Co-ordinator),Mrs. Davies, Mrs. Simmons, Mrs. Brady,
Mrs. Wallace, Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Said
Mrs. Emma Loney
Breakfast Club
Supervisors PT
Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Year 1/2
The Management of the School
Rheoli’r Ysgol
The governing body has responsibility for the strategic management of the school, acting within the
framework set by national legislation and by policies of the L.E.A.
The internal management of the school is the responsibility of the Headteacher.
The L.E.A. is the employer of staff, but the Governing Body and Headteacher have separate and
particular responsibilities for the selection and management of staff.
The Governing Body meets at least once a term and in addition, sub-committees meet regularly to
discuss specific issues. They report to the full Governing Body for formal ratification of proposals.
The minutes of Governing Body meetings are available from the Headteacher, on request.
Governors are required by law to publish an Annual Report to Parents and to hold an Annual General
Meeting at which parents may raise issues of concern. Copies of the most recent report are available
on request.
Community
Brian Stark
27.1.17
Steve Payne ( Vice Chair)
27.1.17
Pauline Parry
11.11.16
Carrie Bowser
23.11.17
Rita Singh
27.1.15
Marie John
18.11.14
Cllr Gareth Aubrey
9.17
Julia Smith
10. 17
Mark Vaughan
2.10.16
Dirk Wilson (Chair)
2.10.16
Rowena Criddle
2.10.16
Jeremy Evans
2.10.16
Lisa Lewis
2.10.16
Headteacher
Judith Davies
N/A
Teacher
Kate Haynes
31.10.16
Richard Thomas
31.10. 16
Support Staff
Philippa Kerrigan
31.10.16
Clerk to Governors
Karen Brown
N/A
Observers
Abi Beacon DHT
N/A
Local Authority
Parent
Claire Lawton
Like the rest of the school, the governing body wants to have a clear statement of vision and values
and this summarises our views on what we are striving to achieve.
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Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Governing Body visions and Values

As a Governing Body we aspire to represent “best practice” insofar as the expectations of
Governing Body performance is concerned. To achieve best practice in the context of
Danescourt, we agree that the key features of our role are as follows:
To set the tone for the vision for and long term direction of the school, and to work with the
head and the staff towards achieving that vision

To be a “critical friend” of the school whilst challenging the head and wider staff to improve and
maintain standards, against a backdrop where the well- being of pupils and staff is an important
factor for consideration

To equip ourselves with sufficient skills, knowledge and information to be able to ask the right
questions of the right people and make sensible and appropriate challenge and comment

To properly discharge our duties as regards the financial management of the school and to take
the decisions required to do this, in consultation with the head

To be ambassadors for the school and provide an effective conduit for the communication with
and the management of stakeholders, including but not limited to, pupils, parents, staff, the
wider community, and the LEA, on a transparent basis wherever possible

To challenge ourselves on our performance as a Governing Body, in particular to reflect regularly
on how we deliver against the aspirations in this document and any other “best practice”
guidance that may be appropriate in the future
Success will be measured by a number of performance measures that we set for ourselves and we will
communicate on a transparent basis, in the performance of the school against a broad range of
objectives agreed with the Headteacher and the achievement of educational targets, together with
feedback received from our stakeholders.
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Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Times of the School Day
Amseroedd y Diwrnod Ysgol
Start
Lunch
Start
Nursery
Foundation
Phase
KS2
Mornings
9.00 am
-11.30
8.55 am
8.55 am
Finish
End
N/A
Rec
11.45am 1.00pm
Y1,2 12.00pm 1.00pm
12.00 pm
1.00pm
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Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
Afternoons
12.45
-3.15pm
3.15 pm
3.20 pm
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE / TREFN CWYNO
Cardiff County Council has provided details of its complaints procedure, produced in accordance with
Welsh Office Guidelines. Copies of the full procedure can be inspected at the Annual Meeting or on
application to the Headteacher or at public libraries and the education offices. Anyone wishing to
make a complaint will be provided with a copy.
The following is a brief summary of the procedure:
a)
Scope of the arrangements
These cover curriculum matters, including religious education and worship. They do not cover
matters such as discipline or admissions. Complaints under these arrangements are concerned
only with the actions of the Governing Body and the L.E.A., and do not cover complaints about
the actions of teachers or the Headteacher.
b)
Stages
There are three levels at which a complaint could be considered. These are:
i)
Informal
Unless there are exceptional circumstances all complaints should start at this level. This
involves discussion with the Headteacher or other school staff (if the complaint refers to
actions of the school) or with officers of the L.E.A. (if it refers to the actions of the
L.E.A.).
ii)
Formal complaint to the Governing Body
If attempts to settle the complaint informally fail, the complaint should be set out in
writing and sent to the Assistant Director of Education (Schools) who will refer it to the
Governing Body or to the L.E.A., (see iii), as appropriate. Complainants may make an
oral presentation to supplement the written complaint. After full investigation the
complainant will be notified of the outcome in writing.
iii)
Formal complaint to the L.E.A.
This stage will be used if the complainant is not satisfied with the outcome of (ii), or if it
is a complaint which is outside the responsibility of the Governing Body. The procedure
is similar to that laid down under (ii), but it will be considered by a panel of 3 County
Councillors and the Assistant Director of Education (Schools).
c)
The Secretary of State
A complainant who is still dissatisfied after stage 3, will be able to complain to the Secretary of
State.
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Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo
d)
Monitoring
The Governors will receive reports on complaints, and the school will make an annual return to
the L.E.A.
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Nuturing, Growing,Thriving- Meithrin, Tyfu, Llwyddo