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Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School
St Thomas More Partnership of Schools
School
Prospectus
2014-2015
School
Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School
Byermoor
Burnopfield
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE16 6NU
Tel: 01207 270396
Fax: 01207 272604
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sacredheartgateshead.org
LA
Gateshead
Director of Education
Learning & Children
Civic Centre, Gateshead NE8 1HH
Tel: 0191 433 3000
Status of School:
Roman Catholic Primary
Age Range:
4 - 11 years
Currently on Roll:
124
Pre-School:
26
Head Teacher:
Mr P Naughton
Executive Head Teacher:
Mr J Parkinson
School Improvement Partner:
of Schools
John Marshall—St Thomas More Partnership
The School is a mixed Roman Catholic Primary School for children 4-11 years of age
which is part of the St Thomas More Partnership of Schools
Sacred Heart School has been serving
the Parish of Byermoor since 1871. The
present building was erected in 1883 and
a large extension built in the 1970's. The school was refurbished in 1997. A new
roof and improvements to the road
surrounding the school were made in
2004. Brand new toilets facilities and an
extension to classroom 3 were completed in 2006. In 2007 an extension to Class 1 was completed and in 2008 year we had a
new office area. The school population continues to grow despite lack of a local
housing estate to draw children from. This year we have also improved disability access to our school buildings.
The building is set back behind the Church, and has extensive views of the Derwent
Valley. Our pupils mostly come from the villages of Byermoor, Burnopfield, Marley
Hill and Sunniside. At 11 they usually go on to St Thomas More, Blaydon or St
Bede's, Lanchester.
At present there are 124 children on roll (September 2014) with the addition of 26
younger children in our thriving Pre-school called ‘Little Hearts’. Little Hearts
accommodates pre-school children for both morning, lunch and afternoon sessions. A
Toddler group also regularly meets on Tuesday mornings in our school hall.
The building currently consists of six classrooms, a library/study room, and a school
hall. Meals are brought into school daily from Washingwell Primary school kitchen.
Outside we have a hard surface playing area, a soft play area, seating areas, and a
football pitch. We also have a garden area for our children and an additional Early
Years Garden used by both Little Hearts children and our reception children.
Key People
Mr P. Naughton
Head Teacher
Mr J. Parkinson
Executive Head
St Thomas More Partnership of Schools
Ms Y. Hewison
Chair of Governors
School Governors
Head Teacher
Mr P. Naughton
Foundation
(Chair)
Foundation
(Vice Chair)
Foundation
Ms Yvonne Hewison
Foundation (Parent)
Mrs Claire Iles
Foundation (Parent)
Mr Anthony Paul Smith
Foundation (Parent)
Mrs Alison Hopper
Foundation (Parent)
Mrs Karen Hall
Foundation
Mr Michael Heppell
Foundation
Mr Kevin Robertson
Staff
Miss L Barker
Mrs Monica Parker
Miss Clare Hagan
School Staff
Head Teacher
Mr P Naughton
School Administrator
Miss J. Cook
Caretaker
Mr P. Dixon
Reception Teacher
Mrs McCarron
Year 1 Teacher
Miss L. Wise
Year 2 Teacher
Miss R. Gray
Year 3/4 Teacher
Miss L. Barker
Year 5/6 Teacher
Mr S. Woods
Learning Support Teacher
Mrs E. Knox
Music Teacher
Mr F. Nicholson
P.E. Teacher
Mr S. Evans
Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Miss A. Barrass
Teaching Assistant (Level 3)
Ms J. Shield
Specialist Leader of Education
Specialist Leader of Education
Reception PPA
(H.L.T.A)
Lunchtime Supervisor
Heart Zone Manager
Staff Development
Teaching Assistant (Level 3)
Miss C. Smith
In line with theLunchtime
School Improvement
SupervisorPlan the staff and governors regularly attend courses to
develop their skills and subject knowledge and have appropriate professional development. We
currentlySupervisor
have two Specialist Leaders of
Education
within
Lunchtime
Mrs
L. Dodds
Teaching and Learning (Miss Barker) , Phonics and Early Years (Mrs McCarron)
Lunchtime Supervisor
Mrs Robinson-Crow
Kitchen Staff
Shirlene?
I am very proud to welcome you to Sacred Heart Catholic School a Partnership School of
the St Thomas More Multi Academy Trust.
Sacred Heart has been educating children from its community since 1873. We seek in
our school to create an inclusive community where everybody is valued and nurtured.
People routinely comment on the friendly atmosphere that exists in the school but they
also notice that it has a great sense of purpose.
At Sacred Heart we are committed to the achievement of every single child regardless
of his or her ability. I am proud to say that our children make exceptional progress from
their starting points and achieve outstanding results.
At our school, Christ is central to all life at Sacred Heart: we promote Christian values
and seek not only to achieve excellence 'intellectually' but also 'spiritually.' It is our
belief that there is much more to school life than the rigour of examinations and we
strive to stimulate our children in order that they may become caring, compassionate
human beings. We were delighted to be one of the first schools in Gateshead to join the
outstanding Multi Academy Trust of St Thomas More in Blaydon.
We truly believe that "Working in Partnership with families is everything".
When we welcome the child we welcome the family.
We are fortunate that Sacred Heart is set in one of the most beautiful parts of
Gateshead which borders County Durham. It is a first class environment with very good
facilities and I hope you find this prospectus a useful tool for finding out more about us.
I urge you therefore to come and visit us. Talk to me, talk to staff, most importantly
talk to the pupils - we will do all we can to help you look below the surface and discover
whether Sacred Heart is the right place for your family.
Best wishes
Paul Naughton – B.Ed (Hons) NPQH LEJOG
Admission Procedure
Local authorities send out applications forms to parents in the year prior to entry
and they should be returned to Gateshead or Durham LA.
Since September 2004 Gateshead LA has administered the process of dealing with
applications. The Governors of the school though retain their role as the admissions
authority of the school.
The school operates an appropriate admission policy, which allows children a more
relaxed transition from home to school. A parents' meeting is held in the summer
term to meet staff, discuss requirements and answer any queries parents might
have. At present the vast majority of the children coming to our school are already
familiar with the school and its staff by being in the Little Hearts Pre-school. Both
sets of staff work closely together to ensure a smooth transition from Pre–School
to the Reception class. The school also has very good contacts with surrounding
nursery providers and parents can be assured that if their child has not attended
the Little Hearts they will have an equally smooth transition to full time education.
Children usually spend mornings only in school for their first few days in school and
this is gradually built up before becoming full time students. This enables parents
and staff to build good working relationships, and gently introduces school routine to
the child. Each child is given a 'buddy', an older child who ensures they settle in well
and any difficulties are spotted quickly. Any parent wishing to have their child
admitted mid-year is also welcome to visit the school and they too will be given a
conducted tour.
The school holds an Open Day during April/May of every academic year.
This Admissions policy has been formally adopted by the Governing Bodies of the
Catholic Primary schools in Gateshead. In each school the Governing Body is the
Admissions Authority and is responsible for determining the school’s admissions
policy
How and When to apply
Applications must be made on the Local Authority Common Application Form. Parents applying to a Voluntary Aided Catholic school should also complete the supplementary information form. All forms must be returned by the closing date set by
the Local Authority.
Late Applications
Any applications received after the closing date will be accepted but considered
only after those received by the closing date.
Gateshead Council Community and Voluntary Controlled Primary Schools
Admission Policy 2014/15
We allocate places at our Community Primary Infant and Junior Schools using our
policy below and co-ordinate admissions to our schools using our co-ordinated
admission scheme.
The policy is as follows:
Your child will start school at the beginning of the academic year in which they will
reach the age of five. (An academic year lasts from 1 September in one
year to 31 August in the following year). However In many schools the first
year will include an induction period, (a period for your child to get used to
school life). This period may last from September until no later than the
end of the October half term holiday. Parents who wish to defer their
child’s entry beyond this period must make this request in writing at the
time of application for admission to school. Deferred entry must not extend
beyond the beginning of the term after the child’s 5th birthday, or beyond
the academic year for which the application was accepted. Deferred entry
will be considered by us the local authority (LA) in consultation with the
Head Teacher and governors of the school.
We will accept pupils up to the school’s agreed Planned Admission Number for the
year group unless we feel there are lawful grounds not to do so.
Oversubscription Criteria
We will consider applications from parents who have named the school as any
ranked preference on their application form this is called the Equal
preference system. If there are more applications for the number of places
available at the school we will than allocate places by using the following order
of priority:
Children in Public Care (and as deemed under Section 22 of the Children Act
1989) including a child who was previously “looked after” but
immediately after being “looked after” became subject to an
adoption, residence, or special guardianship order (see definition*).
Children who live in the school’s catchment area and who will have a brother
or sister at the school, or at the feeder junior school during the coming academic year. (see definition*)
Other children who live in the school’s catchment area.
Other children who will have a brother or sister at the school or at the
feeder junior school during the coming academic year.
Other children who have exceptional medical or social grounds see point 1
below
All other children.
(*see definitions of our criteria in priority 1, 2 and 4 above in our parent’s information booklet and at www.gateshead.gov.uk)
Late Admissions Continued
Other children who live in the school’s catchment area.
Other children who will have a brother or sister at the school or at the
feeder junior school during the coming academic year.
Other children who have exceptional medical or social grounds see point 1
below
All other children.
(*see definitions of our criteria in priority 1, 2 and 4 above in our parent’s
information booklet and at www.gateshead.gov.uk)
Point 1-We can consider exceptional individual applications, particularly in cases
involving medical or social needs. If you wish to apply on medical or social grounds
you must provide written evidence from relevant registered health professionals
i.e. a doctor or social worker. The evidence must demonstrate why the chosen
school is more appropriate and what difficulties would be caused if they were to
travel to and attend alternative schools. We will not consider such applications if
the relevant professional evidence is not provided. The evidence will be assessed
by the LA Admission Panel. No assumption should be made that submission of the
relevant evidence will, in itself, be sufficient to allocate a place.
Whickham Parochial Church of England Controlled Primary School
This school has the same oversubscription criteria as priorities 1 to 6 above
except that criteria 3 and 4 above are reversed. Priority 1, 2, 5 and 6 remain in
the same order however for this particular school their oversubscription criteria
places priority 4 children above those children in priority 3.
Address
For the purposes of deciding whether a child lives in the catchment area of a
school we will use the parent or legal guardian's address or the address of a relevant adult who has parental responsibility, as defined under the 1989 Children’s
Act, for the child.
Tie breaker
If, within any of the above criteria, there are more applicants than places available priority will be given to those children based on the distance they live from
the school, measured ‘as the crow flies’ i.e. in a straight line from the centre of
the home residence to the school’s main entrance. Children living nearest to the
school will have priority. We measure the distance using a geographical information
system (GIS).
Offer Date
The offer day is Wednesday 16 April 2014 a letter will be sent to parents who are
Gateshead residents by 2nd class post informing them of the school they have
been offered for their child. Gateshead residents who apply on-line are informed
by email on Wednesday 16th April 2014.
General Information and definitions
For information on our admission arrangements and definitions of the terms used
in this policy please refer to our “Admission to Primary school” booklet for 2014
available at www.gateshead.gov.uk The co-ordinated admission scheme and Catchment areas referred to in this policy can also be viewed at Civic Centre, Regent
Street, Gateshead, NE8 1HH and on the website above.
Working Together
We work to promote excellent relationships and partnerships between governors,
parents and school. We have a vibrant Friends of Sacred Heart School which
encourages parents to be actively involved in the life of the school. Parents are
invited to visit school at any time to discuss their child's progress, and there are
many special events that offer different opportunities to be involved in school life.
Workshops
We have regular workshops and information evenings for parents to learn more
about the different ways in which we teach the children. These have included
information evenings about what happens in each class including daily routines,
timetables etc, Phonics Workshops, Early Years—7 Areas of Learning, Maths
Calculation Strategies and Creative Curriculum. These evenings are extremely well
attended and feedback from parents is always fantastic.
Parents Training in School/Work Experience
All parents who wish to offer their services working in classrooms as voluntary
assistants need to be CRB cleared.
We value the support of any additional adults in school within many areas including
Library services, hearing readers, resource preparation and Teaching Assistant
Trainees.
Communication
Frequent correspondence takes place between school and home, and there is a weekly newsletter which is sent out to all of our families, staff and parishioners and can
also be downloaded from our school website.
Website: www.sacredheartgateshead.org
The children at Sacred Heart are very lucky to have a super group of parents,
grandparents and extended family members who give up their precious time to help
raise funds to benefit the children.
In the last academic year the Friends have provided refreshments at class
assemblies, Liturgies, Sports Day, Christmas parties, organised school discos and
bought presents for the children.
This year the annual Summer Fair raised over an impressive £3000 after a lot of
hard work and preparation paid off.
The Friends were able to pay for the summer term buses for the school trip and
subsidised our Shakespeare Themed creative curriculum day when we had an actress
come into school to lead workshops with every class.
Little Hearts Pre-school
Where learning begins
Pre School Owner/Manager—Mrs Gill Manning
We are situated within the grounds of Sacred Heart Catholic
Primary School. We provide high quality care and education for children below
statutory school age. We work in partnership with parents to help children learn
and develop. We work very closely with Sacred Heart creating an Early Years unit
that provides a well resourced learning environment. At Pre-school the children
learn through play. Play helps the children to learn and develop through doing and
talking. The children gain lots of experience from their time in the classroom, outdoors and in the forest school.
A forest school is about being outdoors to explore and learn. Children will learn in
the outdoors, helping to develop self confidence, independence, raising self
esteem as well as developing language and communication skills. Forest school
sessions take place in all weathers. The children are encouraged to explore,
investigate and take risks. Some of the activities we do are making camps, magic
potions, problem solving, mini beast hunt and maths games.
At Little Hearts Pre-school we have access to a variety of outdoor space. This
includes the Early Years garden, yard, forest school, and school field. The Early
Years garden is our outdoor classroom and gives the children access to a range of
open ended activities. There is lots of space for the children to run around, a trim
trail and balance beams.
Our sessions are mornings 8.30am-11.30am and afternoons 12.15pm-3.15pm. We
also have a breakfast club available daily from 7.45am and a lunch club 11.30am12.15pm.
Please contact us on 01207 270396 or 07789 292110 to arrange a visit and
meet our Early Years team.
At Sacred Heart we offer a range of wrap around care.
Breakfast Club — Please see Gill at Little Hearts for more details or
to book a place.
Times
Available to
Cost
7:45am until School Starts
(Children are accompanied to their classrooms by the
breakfast club staff)
All children from Little Hearts up to Year 6
£2.50
Food/Snacks
Cereals, yoghurt, toast, fruit etc
Heart Zone After School Club —
Please see Miss Shield if you
require more information.
After School Clubs —
Times
Available to
Cost
Information will be sent out to parents in
Monday to Thursday
3:10pm until 5:45pm
All children from Little Hearts up to Year 6
£4.00 1 Hour 3:10pm—4:10pm
£7.50 Full night 3:10pm –5:45pm
Food/Snacks
Weekly menu available upon request e.g. Beans on toast,
sandwiches, fruit etc
September with the new clubs for Autumn 2014.
Parking
The road around school is very busy at the beginning and end of the day. We
operate a one way system for people in cars entering our school. We ask all
parents to bring their children into school via the top road (by the church) and exit via the bottom road (Industrial Estate). We also ask that parents/carers park
their cars in the car park and do not park in front of the school. It is vital for the
safety of the children that parents and carers park away from the front of school
and take great care when driving near to the school. It is helpful if any childminders or additional family members who may come to school occasionally to drop off
or collect your child are also aware of the one way system.
Way In
Way Out
Our Outdoor Play Areas
School Field
Forest School
School Yard
Play Area
Foundation Garden
Accessibility Arrangements
At Sacred Heart RC VA Primary School we are committed to providing a fully
accessible environment which values and includes all pupils, staff, parents and
visitors regardless of their education, physical, social and cultural needs. We are
further committed to challenging attitudes about disability and accessibility and
to developing a culture of awareness, tolerance and inclusion.
Our school has the following facilities, a disabled toilet, ramp access, stair lift and a designated
parking bays.
We plan to continue to evaluate provision for all pupils, staff, parents and visitors
to Sacred Heart RC VA Primary School through our accessibility plan which can be
obtained from the Head Teacher.
Break Times
Reception class children do have timetabled breaks. As we offer a free flow
timetable between the indoor and outdoor classroom the children are active all
the time.
We encourage the children to eat healthily especially during these times. As part
of our participation in the national ‘Fruit for Schools’ scheme your child will
receive a free piece of fruit each day. Crisps and chocolate etc are not allowed at
playtimes neither are fizzy drinks or juice.
Healthy Teeth
In reception class we...



Celebrate birthdays etc without sweets
Only have healthy snacks and drinks
Have regular visits from the dental health services and promote regular
brushing.
School Meals

Gateshead Council are offering free school meals to all children between
reception and Year 2. The menus rotate every three weeks and they also
offer a vegetarian option. Lunchtime staff and older buddies in school
help children with carrying their trays, cutting up their food etc.
What time do they start each day?
Highlighted column applies to the Reception Class.
Please note from September 2014 no parents are
allowed onto the school yard before the school day
begins. Staff are on duty to ensure the health and
safety of all
children after they have been dropped off/handed
over at the school gates.
Early Years/
Reception
Key Stage 1
(Years 1 and 2)
Key Stage 2
(Years 3,4,5 & 6)
Morning
(Gate Opens
8:45am)
8:50am – 11:45am
(Children line up in
the main yard)
8:50am – 12:00noon
(Children line up in
the main yard)
8:50am – 12:00noon
Break
As and when
required—free
flow
11:00am – 11:15am
11:00am – 11:15am
Lunch
11:45am – 1:00pm
12 noon – 1:00pm
12 noon – 1:00pm
Afternoon
(Gate Opens at
3:05am)
1:00pm – 3:05pm
1:00pm – 3:05pm
(Children to exit
from the main school
yard)
1:00pm – 3:10pm
School Uniform
Boys—navy T shirt, grey trousers, red sweatshirt,
grey/black socks (Summer—grey school shorts
Girls—navy T shirt, grey skirt/trousers, red
cardigan/sweatshirt, red/grey tights, white socks
(Summer—red checked dress)
PE Uniform—White T shirt, navy shorts, plimsolls
Additional Items
.Red Book Bags, PE bags, School Caps etc
How do we order uniform?
School uniform is available from the Tesco website below.
http://www.clothingattesco.com/icat/embschoolwear
First click on the drop down menu and look for ‘Gateshead’
before selecting Sacred Heart in the right menu.
EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE
The Early Years Foundation Stage applies to children from three years of age to
the end of the reception year. At Sacred Heart children join our Pre-School
setting ‘Little Hearts’ from the age of three before starting in our Reception class
at the beginning of the school year in which they are five. (Compulsory schooling
begins at the start of the term after a child’s fifth birthday.) Key Stage 1 begins
for our children at the beginning of Year 1. The Foundation Stage is important in
its own right, and in preparing children for later schooling. The Early Learning
Goals set out what is expected of most children by the end of the Foundation
Stage.
The early years education we offer our children is based on the following themes
and principles:
A Unique Child – Every child is a competent learner from birth who can be
resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
Positive Relationships – Children learn to be strong and independent from a base
of loving and secure relationships with parents and/or a key person.
Enabling Environments – The environment plays a key role in supporting and
extending children’s development and learning.
Learning and Development – Children develop and learn in different ways and at
different rates and all areas of Learning and Development are equally important
and inter-connected.
The curriculum for the EYFS in our school reflects the areas of learning
identified in the ‘Development Matters’ and ‘Early Learning Goals’. The experiences
that our children meet enable them to develop a number of competencies, skills
and concepts across several areas of learning.
We aim to meet the needs of our children through planning experiences and
opportunities, both indoors and outdoors which build upon and extend children’s
enjoyment, knowledge, understanding, experience and interests. We focus on
developing children’s self-esteem and confidence, mathematical skills, problem
solving, communication skills, language and literacy, knowledge and understanding
of the world, physical and creative development.
We use a wide range of teaching strategies based on children’s learning needs and
we make regular assessments of children’s learning. We use this information to
ensure that future planning reflects identified needs. Assessment in the EYFS
takes the form of photographs and focused observations which involve the Head
Teacher, all members of our Early Years Team, helpers and any other adults as
appropriate. Anecdotal observations are recorded all year round to help build up a
clear, well rounded picture of what a child can do across each of the areas of
learning. We also rely on parents knowledge of their child to help us work
collaboratively and to acknowledge parents and their important role of being the
primary educators of their child.
At Sacred Heart we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to help children
settle into school. We have a well established transition programme for our
yearly intake of new reception children and also any new children joining the
other year groups and classes.
Ongoing throughout the year
Gold book assemblies
Special Visitor assemblies
Weekly PE sessions with Mr Evans
Lunch sessions with main school
Themed days e.g. World Book Day, Children in Need
Sports Day (including practises)
Outdoor Play
Forest School
Open Day
Discos
Heart Zone
Christmas Activities (lunch, play)
Cake and fruit sales
Weekly letters and sounds sessions with EY teacher
Music in the school hall
Movie Nights
Road Safety
Mass
SCHOOL CURRICULUM- Developing the Creative Curriculum
Our school encourages a creative curriculum which is topic based and the school
curriculum policy, based on the QCA national guidelines encompasses all the
requirements of the National Curriculum, and is based on a two year rolling
programme, to ensure a steady progress in all subjects through the two main Key
Stages. Most subjects are taught in a cross-curricular way, which means that
themes are selected which cover many aspects of the core and foundation subjects.
Each term emphasises either Science, History or Geography as the main parts of the
theme. As a school we have organised the way the curriculum is delivered to the
children so we can improve the children's learning, giving adequate balance to
subjects taught. Your child is offered a quality curriculum with adequate breadth
and depth in and between subjects. Teachers plan a range of experiences, which
include visitors into school and educational visits to enrich the quality of the
children's learning.
AIMS
The School aims:
•
child
reaches
tial
to ensure each
their full poten• to help the
children develop
question and dis-
enquiring minds leading to
cussion
• to give the children the opportunity to develop skills and
knowledge in all areas of the curriculum
• to help children work together and show care and consideration
for others.
In the Reception year the school teaches to the Early Learning Goals, in the rest of
the school the core and other foundation subjects are divided into the
two Key Stages.
Literacy
In all Key Stages a range of genres are taught, including fiction, non-fiction and
poetry. Each unit is an integrated programme of speaking and listening, reading and
writing. The children set targets at the beginning of each unit and are involved in
reviewing the progress that has been made at regular intervals. During lessons the
children are encouraged to explore text through role play, freeze framing,
hot-seating and many other speaking and listening activities which allow children to
develop their ability to communicate as well as build on their own self confidence.
English is taught within an integrated programme of speaking and listening, guided
reading and writing. The children's abilities in English are developed across the
curriculum. They are taught to communicate and express themselves clearly and
effectively in speech and writing and great emphasis is placed on the ability to listen
and understand. The children experience a wide variety of reading material at
appropriate levels of complexity and interest so that they become competent,
enthusiastic and fluent readers.
Reading development is seen as a partnership between home and school and children
are encouraged to choose books to take home to read to their parents.
The school has fully adopted the New Framework for Literacy. Guided reading takes
place on a daily basis.
Numeracy
In Numeracy we hope to help children develop the ability to solve problems, to
understand numbers, shapes and relationships, and to predict likely results. All of
this is applied in a range of practical tasks and real-life problems. The programmes
of study are taught using a range of resources including computers and calculators.
The school has fully adopted the National Numeracy Strategy and blocks are taught
termly.
Science
In science children are engaged in practical investigations which will involve working
both individually and in groups. The development of scientific skills will be within the
context of the programmes of study relating to life processes and living things;
materials and their properties and physical processes.
Computing
The use of ICT is promoted in all subject areas and children use computers to
enhance and compliment much of their work in school. They are encouraged to use
the equipment properly, carefully and safely. Although every classroom has
networked computer stations where children experience a variety of curriculum
support programmes, our well equipped ICT suite and 15 wireless laptops ensure
individual experiences and progress through whole class focused activities.
There are Smartboards in every classroom and ICT suite. The school has an Internet access policy and Internet access is run through Gateshead LEA to
ensure safety for our children.
Technology
In technology we encourage the children to understand the significance of design
and technology to the economy and to the quality of life. This involves planning and
making things, and evaluating outcomes.
Our school celebrates children’s
achievements in technology through open exhibitions to the school community.
History
In history we introduce children to historical personalities and events through
stories, poetry, pictures and TV, at local, national and world levels. We use the
children's own lives and environment to make them aware of the passage of time.
Children are encouraged to use documentary evidence to enhance their
understanding and develop their historical skills. Parents and the local community
play a very important part in the development of resources and artefacts for this
area of work. We encourage all children to take part in field trips related to their
topics.
Geography
In geography children are introduced to the local area as well as extending their
factual knowledge. A wide range of materials are used including maps, photographs,
written accounts and other sources. We encourage children to appreciate and
protect the environment with the starting point being our school.
Physical Education
In physical education children develop their skills in gymnastics, dance, games and
adventure play to develop good body co-ordination and control. This work is
connected with our health programme. We endeavour to give each child enjoyment
and satisfaction from physical activity and the opportunity to develop positive
sporting attitudes. The children in our school carry out a minimum of 2 hours PE per
week. We also promote swimming throughout the whole school on a weekly basis and
provide opportunities to try netball and football.
Swimming
All pupils in Years 1, 2, 3 and 4 swim throughout the year. A £2 per week voluntary
contribution to the costs is asked for these lessons.
Art
In art we encourage children to develop their artistic and creative abilities within
the whole of the creative curriculum and cross curricular areas. We ensure the
children experience a wide range of opportunities to develop a breadth of art
techniques and skills. They are also encouraged to plan and to manipulate a range of
materials so that they can develop skill and originality. Children are encouraged to
evaluate and appreciate their own work and the work of others in order to develop
their appreciation of the arts. We are committed to the wider development of young
people and encourage collaborations with professional artists and art organisations.
Music
All children receive expert tuition from a peripatetic teacher.
The children are encouraged to make music and to develop an appreciation of
different types of music. Good use is made of the expertise of available
professionals. Where appropriate children to take part in musical productions on a
biannual basis. Children are provided with opportunities to a range of professional
tuition of musical instruments.
Drama
This is developing as a cross-curricular subject. When possible, visiting theatre
groups perform in school.
Modern Foreign Languages
The school recognises that our children have right to learn about other cultures and
communities. The learning of foreign languages is an important part in this process.
The school has specific weekly French lessons for our KS2 children. Children in the
Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 have opportunities throughout the year to develop
their foreign language skills with their class teacher.
The School Council
The School Council is the voice of the children.
The Council consists of two representatives in
each year from across the school from Foundation
Stage to Year 6, members of staff and governors.
New representatives are elected each school
year. The Council meets at least once every month
where they contribute to school improvement and
work together to ensure the health and wellbeing
of all members of the school community.
In 2012 and 2013 we visited London and had a
formal tour of the Houses of Parliament.
Being a School Councilor provides the opportunity
to learn real-life skills take on responsibilities and
be involved in decision making. In the last
academic year the council dealt with playtime
games, attendance, Zambia projects and bullying.
Everyone really loves the responsibility of being
on the school council. Recently we have made big
changes to our outdoor play-area, the available play equipment and we have been
involved in lots of activities and initiatives in school.
Eco Schools Council
The Eco Schools Council meets regularly to discuss environmental issues relating
to our school and the wider community. It comprises of pupils elected annually
from each year group, staff, a governor and a parent representative.
Our School Prayer
Religious Education, although part of the Curriculum is far more than a subject to us at
Sacred Heart. It influences all aspects of our school life and relationships. By developing the Catholic emphasis we try to build a caring attitude in school, which will
be evident in all relationships between staff and children. As a Catholic school we
are seeking to encourage and deepen the child's love and understanding of our faith
and foster a desire to follow Jesus. The school uses the 'Come and See’ scheme as
recommended by the Bishop's Conference.
WITHDRAWAL FROM R.E.
The Governors are required to inform parents of their rights of withdrawal of pupils
from religious education and worship. Parents are also reminded that our school
exists to give a ‘Catholic’ education to its pupils. It is therefore expected that
parents be in sympathy with the aims and objectives of the school.
Collective Worship at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School
Our aim is to provide experiences which deepen the inner senses and engender
feelings of self worth and the uniqueness of the individual. Giving pupils a purpose
and meaning to life, awe and wonder of the natural world, reverence and respect
and a sense of belonging to the community. We create atmospheres in which genuine worship may take place and where pupils’ own beliefs are valued and each one
has the opportunity to respond in their own way.
Children are encouraged to reflect on the ways in which worship affects the
values, attitudes and spiritual dimensions of themselves, the learning
community and society. It is a celebration and a time for reflecting on things
that have worth and meaning to the community. Parents, children and staff all
come together to provide an enriching experience for all.
Procedures
The school applies the following procedures in deciding how to deal with individual
absences:
Illness and Medical Appointments
If a pupil is unfit for school, parents are asked to contact the school on the first
day of absence by 10.00 am. When the pupil returns, he or she must bring a
written note, signed by the parent for each period of absence. Absences will not
be authorised without this procedure. In exceptional circumstances, further evidence of a child’s illness, such as a doctor’s note, may be requested.
Lateness
Punctuality is an important life skill for pupils to learn. Late arrival disrupts the
whole class. You are expected to ensure that pupils are present in the school yard
by 8.45 am. Pupils arriving after 9.00 am will be recorded as late. Pupils arriving
after 9.20am am will be recorded as absent.
Compassionate Leave and Emergencies
In exceptional circumstances, the Head Teacher may authorise other brief
absences on compassionate grounds. Each case will be considered on its merits, and
whenever possible, permission should be requested in advance, in writing.
If a pupil is absent at morning registration and the school has not received an
explanation for the absence by 10.00 am, the school will contact the parent by telephone in the first instance or by our text messaging service.
PUPIL ATTENDANCE 2014/2015
If your child is absent for any reason, please inform the school on the first day of
absence and a note explaining the absence must be presented on the child's return.
Absence record for day pupils of compulsory school age
Overall attendance 2011/12
% authorised absence
% unauthorised absence
96.%
4%
0.4%
Unauthorised absences are recorded when a parent does not provide the school with
a reason for an absence, or if children take more than 10 days holidays during school
time.
Sacred Heart Catholic School Attendance Policy
Staff and Governors expect full and punctual attendance from all pupils.
Principles
As parents of registered pupils, you have a legal duty under the Education Act 1996 to
make sure that children of compulsory school age attend school on a regular and full-time
basis. Permitting unauthorised absence from school is an offence and parents may be
reported to the Education Authority if problems cannot be resolved by agreement.
Every half-day absence from school has to be recorded and classified by the school (not
by the parents) as either authorised or unauthorised. This is why information about the
cause of each absence is always required.
You are responsible by law, for your child’s full attendance at school. Full attendance is
important, not just because the law requires it but because it is the only way of ensuring
that a child makes the most of the educational opportunities which are available; every
lesson matters. There may be occasions when your child has to miss school – for example
if he or she is unwell. Parents do not have the right to take their child out of school
during term time.
Authorised absences are mornings or afternoons away from school for a good reason
(i.e. illness or other unavoidable cause).
Unauthorised absences are those which the school does not consider reasonable and
for which no “leave” has been given. This includes keeping children off school unnecessarily, truancy, absences which have not been properly explained and children who arrive at
school too late to receive a mark in the register.
Any problems with regular attendance are best sorted out between the school, the
parents and the child. If a child is reluctant to attend, it is never better to cover up their
absence or to give in to pressure to excuse them from attending. This gives the impression that attendance does not matter and may make things worse.
Parents are expected to contact school at an early stage and to work with the staff in resolving problems together. This is nearly always successful. If problems cannot be sorted
out in this way, the school may refer the child to the Educational Welfare Officer (EWO)
from the LA. He/she will also try to resolve the difficulties by agreement but, if other
ways of trying to improve the child’s attendance have failed, this officer can use court
proceedings to prosecute parents or to seek an Education Supervision Order on the child.
Parents or children may wish to contact the EWOs themselves to ask for advice.
They are independent of the school. Their telephone number is available from the
school office or by contacting the Local Authority at Gateshead Civic Centre 0191
4333000.
HOLIDAYS
A holiday list is circulated each year to parents and is also available on the
Gateshead Council and school website. All holidays and school closures from September to August will be listed. Lists for the next academic year will normally be
available early in the summer term.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
‘Under The Education Act’ (1996) requires parents to ensure their child attends school
regularly. There is no automatic right to take your child out of school during term time.
The Law does however allow Head Teachers to consider individual requests to authorise a
‘Leave of Absence in Exceptional Circumstances’.
The Head Teacher must be satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances to justify
an authorised absence. It is the parents responsibility when submitting the request to
provide all the information and evidence to prove exceptional circumstances.
The request for authorised ‘Leave of Absence’ must be made at least two weeks in advance and the Head Teacher may invite the parent/carer(s) into school to discuss the
request before a decision is made.
If the Head Teacher authorises the ‘Leave of Absence’ it is expected that the child’s
attendance will be of a satisfactory level both prior and after the date covered by the
request.
If the Head Teacher refuses ‘Leave of Absence’ and the absence is recorded as
unauthorised, the Head Teacher may refer the matter to the Local Authority requesting
that a Penalty Notice be issued.
A Penalty Notice is £60 if paid within 21 days of receipt, rising to £120 if
paid after 21 days but within 28 days. If the penalty is not paid in full by
the end of the 28 day period the Local Authority may prosecute for the
offence to which the notice applies.
Where there is more than one child, each parent may be issued with a Penalty
Notice in respect of each child. Research suggests that children who are absent
from school may never catch up on the learning they have missed, which may
ultimately affect exam and test results. As a parent/carer, you can demonstrate
your commitment to your child’s education by not allowing your child to miss school
for anything other than an exceptional and unavoidable reason.
2013-2014
During the 2013-2104 academic year Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School
received £14,400 of Pupil Premium Funding.
This money has been spent on:
1. THE PROVISION OF INTERVENTION ACTIVITIES FOLLOWING
ASSESSMENTS AND PUPIL PROGRESS MEETINGS.
These interventions include:
Better Reading Partnerships
Breakfast Booster Classes
Mathletics
Every Child Counts
1st Class @ Number
Springboard Maths
Testbase
Bug Club
2. SUPPORTING EDUCATIONAL VISITS INCLUDING:
Year 4/5/6 Residential ‘Dukes House Wood’
Year 3 Autumn Creative Visit
Year 2 Autumn Creative Visit
Year 1 Tesco Visit
Spring Term Visits
Reception—Team Valley Trading Estate
3. EXTRA CURRICULAR CLUBS INCLUDING:
Sports Clubs
Guitar Club
Swimming Travel
Lunchtime Football
After School Football
Help with Homework
Visiting Theatre
Bus Travel
Rugby
Mathletics
Music
Choir
Recorder Club
Dance Club
4. STAFFING
At least one highly skilled teaching assistant in every year group with FSM
(particularly YR/1/1/3). A high adult to child ratio in reception.
5. UNIFORM
Uniform and shoes for vulnerable children
Mathletics
Music
Choir
Recorder Club
Dance Club
IMPACT 2013-2014
The Governing Body expect all children to make progress of, at the very least,
FOUR average points scores during an academic year.
The table gives details of the progress, in terms of average points scores since
the Spring Term data (April 14) that our Key Stage 2 children (who are eligible for
pupil premium funding) have made since the end of Key Stage 1.
We have also included our current Y2 from KS1.
Expected
Progress
(Average Points
Scores)
Actual Progress
(Average Points Scores)
WRITING
READING
MATHS
PP
Non PP
PP
Non PP
PP
Non PP
Year 2
Since Y1
7
6.2
7.5
6.3
4.5
5.7
Year 3
4
5
5.5
6
5.4
6
4.7
Year 4
8
14
8.4
10
10
11
8.4
Year 5
12
15
11.4
8
11.6
11
11.7
Year 6
16
16
17.9
17
17.7
22
18.1
INTRODUCTION:
At all times and in all that we do our school and parish community attempt to serve
as a witness to the Catholic faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ.
We believe that parents are the first and foremost educators of their children
and that we are called to support them in their God given task. Each child in our
school is valued and encouraged to achieve human wholeness - spiritually, morally,
emotionally and academically in a happy and secure Christian environment.
We will always do our best to provide the best possible education for every child
in our care.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
We acknowledge that we as parents are the primary educators of our children
and have an irreplaceable role to play in supporting our children's learning at
school.
Therefore I/we will try to:

Ensure that my child attends school regularly, on time and suitably equipped.
 Inform the school of any concerns or problems that might affect my child's
work or behaviour

Support the Christian values of the school community
 Give my child opportunities for home learning and support the homework that
comes from the school

Support the school's policies and guidelines for behaviour

Attend parents’ evenings and discussions about my child's progress
 Encourage my child to be enthusiastic about learning and to enjoy all the aspects of school life.

Encourage my child to show kindness and consideration to others
 Talk to my child about their experiences in school and encourage them to do
their best
 Attempt to support the Catholic community of Sacred Heart and the school
governors in their responsibilities.
SCHOOL'S EDUCATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
We acknowledge our responsibility to support parents in their task of nurturing
their children towards human wholeness within a Christian community.
Therefore we will: Provide a friendly welcome to your child and a secure and stimulating Christian
environment in which to learn
 Ensure that your child is valued for who he/she is and helped to make good
progress in their spiritual, moral, emotional and academic development
 Treat your child with the dignity and respect they require, encouraging them to
full human wholeness
 Demonstrate our faith and our school's foundation in the teachings of Jesus
Christ, by what we teach and the way we live and worship in our school
 Do our best to provide the best possible education we can for your child and
enthusiastic teaching rooted in our beliefs, our values and our skills
 Provide you with information about your child's progress and provide you with
opportunities to talk to teachers
 Keep you well informed about school policies and activities through regular
letters and newsletters

Set, mark and monitor homework suitable to your child's needs

Send home an annual report of your child's progress

Contact you if there is a problem with your child's attendance or punctuality

Inform you of any concerns regarding your child's behaviour, work or health
Challenge your child to strive for the highest standard of personal, social and
intellectual development and aim for excellence in all they do.
PUPIL RESPONSIBILITIES:
Our children are the most important people within our school which has thrived
for over 130 years; without them this school would not exist. As our children grow
they take on more responsibility for their education and as such we ask those children in Key Stage 2 to also sign our ‘Home School Agreement’:
I am special. I am special to my parents to all who work in my school, to my
friends and to Jesus my special friend.
Because I am special I will try to: Always try to do my best in my lessons
Always try to remember to be polite and thoughtful towards all those I meet
in school
Always try to enjoy school and help others to do the same.
To let my teacher know if I am ever upset or unhappy at school
Keep my school clean and tidy
We ask all parents and children to sign a declaration form to say they understand
the aims and values it has as a Catholic school and the educational opportunities it
will provide for their child within a Christian context.
The declaration also asks parents to acknowledge the type of support outlined in
the 'Parental Responsibilities Statement’ that will be necessary to ensure their
child is helped towards reaching their full potential.
SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
COMPARATIVE REPORT
NATIONAL CURRICULUM ASSESSMENT RESULTS
Key Stage 1 SAT Results 2012
Subject
Level 1
Level 2+
Level 2b+
Level 3+
Reading
92%
92%
92%
18%
Writing
100%
91%
82%
27%
Maths
100%
100%
91%
27%
National Curriculum Assessment and Testing of Year 6 at Key Stage 2
Key Stage 2 SAT Results 2011
Subject
Level 4 above
Level 5
Level 6
English
Maths
Reading
Writing
80%
80%
90%
85%
10%
25%
60%
25%
6%
ASSESSMENT AND RECORD OF ACHIEVEMENT
Each year a written report is prepared in the summer term by teachers on every
child and sent to parents. A special meeting is arranged for parents to discuss
reports with the class teacher. Progress meetings are also held for parents during
the autumn and spring terms.
The children are assessed throughout their years in school and take part in National
Standards Assessment Tests (SATS) at 7 and 11. There are meetings with parents
of children in these classes to discuss the best ways to help their children.
TRANSFER AT ELEVEN
It is normal practice for children to transfer to St Thomas More, Blaydon or St
Bede's, Lanchester. Transition days take place during the
summer term for pupils accepted at these schools.
CONCLUSION
The information in this prospectus relates to the 2014/2015 school year commencing
in September 2014. The particulars stated were correct at the time. It must not
be assumed that changes will not be made before the start of or during the 20142015 year or in subsequent years.