Prospectus 2011-12

Durweston Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School Durweston, Blandford, Dorset DT11 0QA Tel/Fax: 01258 452277 Email: office@durweston.dorset.sch.uk Website: www.durweston.dorset.sch.uk

Number of pupils on roll: 129 Age range: 4 11 years Five classes Pupil Admission Number for Reception is 20 Head Teacher: Liz Wesley-Barker Chair of Governors: Jayne Hosford Further information about education in Dorset may be obtained from:
Childrens Services Dorset County Council County Hall Dorchester

DT1 1XJ

Where everyone has a friend & Everything is possible

We have a right to learn and play Respecting others every day Making friends and having fun Theres a chance for everyone (created by School Council)

Our school is a Christian community which creates a happy, secure and stimulating learning environment where we respect others, gain confidence in ourselves and are ready to rise to new challenges

As a Christian school our aims are:

1.To equip every child to thrive as part of the local, national and global community; encouraging tolerance, respect and honesty 2.To nurture children to become independent, motivated and resourceful learners, enabling them to reach their God-given potential 3.To inspire a generosity of spirit within our children which encourages them to become confident, well-mannered, respectful and ultimately happy individuals 4.To promote religious understanding and a growing appreciation of the Christian faith in order to encourage deep thinking and development of values for life 5.To develop childrens spirituality through all areas of the curriculum
These aims were created by staff, children and governors on our Values and Vision Day - Friday 23rd October 2009

School Staff
Head Teacher Assistant Head teacher Other Teaching Staff Mrs Liz Wesley-Barker Mrs Nicola Brooke Miss Mel Clapham Mrs Judith Cresswell Mrs Emma Croft Miss Rebecca Jackson Mrs Jo Mortimer Mrs Julia Saint Mrs Vron Santer Miss Jane Stirk Mrs Val Ash (French 4, 5&6) Mrs Rowena Mitchell Mrs Emma Croft Mrs Julia Saint Mrs Peta Crumplin Mrs Vicky Lewis Miss Heidi Gaffney Miss Sandra Holloway Mrs Vron Jeans Mrs Tina Kevern Mrs Lynne Wyatt Mrs Kate Beckham Mrs Mandy Partridge Mrs Claire Wright Mrs Sue Smith Kitchen Manager Cook Assistant Cook Assistant Cook Drivers: Cleaner in Charge Premises Manager Jayne Fry Tracy Dawson, Cheryl Coles Caroline Sykes Miriam Parker & Becky Clark Mrs Sue Smith Mr John Bannister

Supply / 1:1 tuition

Peripatetic Music Staff

Musicianship programme Music Ensemble Guitar tuition Percussion Tuition Strings Tuition Piano Tuition Woodwind tuition Kevin Penfold Mrs Laura Yarrow Mr Gareth King Mr Gareth King Mrs Dorota Stenwak Mrs Laura Yarrow Mr John Wesley-Barker

Admin/Finance Officer Clerical Assistant Teaching Assistants

Handy Paws Pre School Staff

Handy Paws manager Deputy Manager Childcare worker Mrs Lyndsay McKinley-Nichols Mrs Helen Hancock Miss Laura Lamb

Lunch-time Supervisory Assistants

School Governors
Mrs Jayne Hosford Mrs Lesley Bryning Rev. Stephen Coulter Mrs Liz Wesley-Barker Miss Sandra Holloway Mrs Maddy Lewis-Smith Mrs Nicola Brooke Mrs Nadine Lewin-Gray Mr. John Paulley MBE Mrs Jane Angell Mr Patrick Bogue Mrs Lynda Rose MBE Mr Robin Jennings Mrs Andrea Jones Miss Trudy Hayter Chairman and Foundation Governor Vice Chairman and Foundation Governor Incumbent Head Teacher Staff Governor Foundation Governor Teacher Governor Parent Governor Foundation Governor Parent Governor Foundation Governor Foundation Governor CSA Governor Foundation Governor Clerk to the Governing Body Governors play an outstanding role in helping the school to move forward and provide exceptional support in many important aspects of school life OFSTED April 2010 Governors are responsible for appointments made within the school.

The Function of the Governing Body

The Governors have a general responsibility for the effective management of the school, acting within the framework set by national legislation and by the policies of the Local Education Authority and the Diocese. The Head Teacher has the responsibility for the day to day running of the school. The Governors meet formally at least once a term and there are the following sub committees: Finance and General Purposes inc. Health and Safety Curriculum and Staffing School Improvement Group FULL GOVERNING BODY

Background Information
The school was founded in 1893 as a Church of England school. Since that time it has been granted Aided Status under the 1944 Education Act, which enables it to remain faithful to its original Church of England Foundation with the majority of the Governors representing the Church of England, referred to in the prospectus as Foundation Governors. The staff supports the principles behind a Church School. These principles are reflected not only in the Religious Education and daily worship, but in the desire that Christian ideals should inform every aspect of the school's life and should be encouraged by the example and involvement of the local Parish Churches. In this way, the Christian community is privileged to further the education of many children. Our school consists of five mixed age classes covering the 7 years of primary education, a Special Needs work area, an ICT/drama suite, a library area, a large sports hall /dining room (for PE, collective worship and drama) and 2 offices for the Head Teacher and administration/ finance. All accommodation is now to the latest specifications following our re-build and renovation which was completed in August 2008. The school is set in a stunning location with views down the Stour valley and of the surrounding hills. The outdoor play area is well equipped with adventure play equipment, grassed and tarmac areas. There are many outdoor learning areas, designed with the help of children, parents and teachers. Our active Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has funded the adventure play equipment and plants for the grounds.

The landscaping of the grounds was carried out to provide children with the maximum opportunity to enjoy and learn from their environment. As a result there are areas for children to grow their own plants and vegetables as well as to play, relax and reflect. Handy Paws Pre-School, an extended schools initiative run by the Governing Body for 3 5 year olds, is located on the site and has close links with the school. The under-fives have their own separate play area adjoined to one of our playgrounds at the back of the school. Reception children also have their own separate playground and toys. Our links with the community are strong and we make use of the village hall, playing fields and the Church in order to improve the quality of education we offer. In return the school is available for use by the community for different events and purposes.

Admissions Policy
The school aims to provide a place for all children whose address is within the designated area, defined as being the area within the boundaries of the parishes of Durweston, Bryanston and Stourpaine, as defined in the school's trust deed. The address is the place where the child is permanently resident with his or her parent or parents or legal guardians. Where a child lives with parents with shared responsibility each part of the week, the 'home' address will be considered to be the address of the person whose name is on the child benefit booklet. This may be a different address to that printed on the book itself. The admissions policy of Durweston Primary School is to offer a place to all applicants irrespective of sex, religion, ethnicity or country of origin, disability or academic ability. Admissions are subject to there being adequate places available in class and adequate teaching capacity/support.
1

2. Children with a particular medical, social or compassionate reason for attending the school, supported by a Doctor, Education Welfare Officer or Social worker. 3. Children living in1 the catchment area2 who will have a sibling already attending the school at the time of admission. This includes step, half and foster siblings living in the same family unit. 4. Children living in the catchment area. 5. Children living outside the catchment area who will have a sibling already attending the school at the time of admission. 6. Children who are baptised into the Church of England attend Church at least once a month, supported by a letter from their Parish Priest; 7. Children of other churches, which are members of Churches Together in Britain and Northern Ireland, who worship at their Church at least once a month, supported by their Church Leader. 8. Children living outside the catchment area who do not qualify under one of the criteria above.
Where a child lives with parents with shared responsibility the home address will be identified as the address of the person whose name is on the relevant Child Benefit booklet (not the address on the booklet).2 The catchment area includes Durweston, Bryanston (excluding Lower Bryanston) and Stourpaine (including France Hill).

Admissions are subject to any constraints upon the school by the relevant authority (Salisbury Diocese, DfES, Local Education Authority) or where admission would be incompatible with arrangements intended to preserve the school's religious character. Where this school is named in a childs statement of special educational needs, the governing body recognises a duty to admit the child to the school. Where all parental preferences for places at the school can be satisfied, all children seeking a place will be admitted. Where there are too few places available to satisfy all preferences (published admission number), places will be allocated according to the following priority order:Children who are looked after by the local authority

1.

If too few places are available to satisfy preferences expressed, after the application of the above criteria, places will be allocated on the basis of the closeness of the child to the school, defined by straight line measurement using the county mapping system. If two or more children with the same priority for admission live an indistinguishable distance from the school, but cannot all be admitted, then the available places will be decided by the casting of lots. If there are insufficient places to accommodate all the children of a multiple birth (i.e. twins, triplets etc.) the parents of

the children will be asked to nominate the child or children to take up the available number of places. Once an offer of a school place has been made it may only be lawfully withdrawn in very limited circumstances, which include an offer of place based upon a fraudulent or misleading application. Where an offer of place is withdrawn, the application will be considered afresh, and a right of appeal offered if an offer of place is refused.

We are very lucky to have our own play area for the reception children so that they can enjoy exploring and learning in a safe, familiar environment. Transfer to The Blandford School is at the age of 11.

The Blandford Schools Network

Durweston is part of the Blandford Schools Network. This group of schools comprises: The Blandford School, for students aged from 11-18. 8 Primary Schools for children 4-11 years: Archbishop Wake, Blandford St Mary, Downlands, Dunbury, Durweston, Milldown, Pimperne and Spetisbury. The schools aim to offer to all the Blandford area children a rich and challenging education which will enable them to reach their maximum potential as future citizens.To this end, the schools work in close partnership at all levels through planning and evaluation meetings, joint teacher development meetings and shared resources. We offer to our children: A happy transition between schools in the area Continuity and progress in their learning Increasingly, agreed policies and approaches across the schools The children in the Blandford Schools Network are entitled to attend a school which provides a safe, secure and orderly environment, safeguarding the rights of teachers to teach and children to learn. The schools in the Blandford area have agreed aims, principles and approaches concerning pupil behaviour and discipline. The vast majority of pupils respond positively to the same high

Entry to School
Children who are four by 31 August 2012 will be admitted in September 2012 and can attend full time from this date. We try to make the transition to school as smooth as possible for parents and children. We visit the children at home and in Nurseries where possible during the Summer Term before school entry. The children spend at least three mornings in their new class getting to know the staff (and toys!). Children who attend our Pre-School: Handy Paws led by our very capable Lyndsay McKinley-Nichols, will have many opportunities to work alongside the Reception class and be involved in the life of the school. However attendance at the Pre-School does not guarantee a place in the school. On Tuesday mornings children are able to attend the Mother & Toddler group in school (from 9.30am 11.30am).This group is called Little Rascals. Rising Fives joins the existing Reception year for stories and songs in the Summer Term before starting school. We also hold an open evening for new parents to meet the Reception class teachers, members of the Governing Body, the PTA and other teachers.

expectations that they will meet in all the schools. In cases of misbehaviour agreed sanctions will be applied. The ultimate sanction is exclusion from the school. Schools behaviour policies have the greatest success when they enjoy the full support of parents. Teachers, pupils and parents all want well-ordered school communities. Head teachers of the Blandford Schools Network expect and are grateful for the support of our parents in reinforcing the schools principles at home and in approving the schools actions to ensure good behaviour.

We consider these routines a vital part of fostering good attitudes to school and the learning process.

Car Parking Please observe the parking restrictions in place outside the school. They allow for the safe collection of children by bus or taxi. We have an agreement in place that allows the use of the Village Hall Car Park for parents when they are picking up or dropping off children. This agreement applies whenever there is space within the car park. There may be times when the car park is full with cars of hall users. There is also plenty of space up the road: Haycombe for parking, with just a short walk to the school. Walking As a Health Promoting School we encourage children to walk part or all of the way to school. We also support children who have taken their cycle proficiency test to cycle to school. Each term a Wellie Walk is organised (1 mile for the younger children and 5 miles for the older children) and is linked to the childrens learning whenever possible. Transport The County transport policy is to provide free transport for children living more than two miles from the school (three miles if over eight years old). It is also possible for parents of children living nearer to apply for 'concessionary' seats on any available school transport. There is currently transport provided from Bryanston and Stourpaine directions. Children will always be collected from, or dropped at, the agreed stop.

The School Day

School opens at 8.50am with registration at 9.05am. There is a breakfast club provision from 8.00am in the school hall for working parents School ends at 3.30pm (with an after school club available from 3pm 6pm at centres nearby, with transport provided free) There is a mid-morning break of 15 minutes. Lunch is between 12.00 and 1pm for Key Stage 1 and 12.00 and 12.50pm for Key Stage 2. There is an afternoon break of 15 minutes for children in Key Stage 1. The school will not accept responsibility for any child left on the premises before 8.50am. For the safety of your child we ask you to comply with this request. At this time, children are able to enter the classroom and begin a morning activity prepared by the class teacher. Please ensure your child is in school in time for registration at 9.05am and that you/ your representative is there to collect them promptly at 3.30pm.

No Dogs on the School Premises In the interests of hygiene, please do not bring dogs onto the school premises. Thank you.

concentrate in the afternoon, and encourages a positive, social relationship with food. The quality of Local Food Links food is everything to them, and in 2009 they were the first school caterer to be awarded the Gold Mark Catering Award by the Food for Life Partnership. Meals cost 2.10 and are cooked locally, in kitchens at the Blandford Childrens Centre. We encourage the children to make sensible menu choices and to try different foods so that they have a varied diet. Children may also eat their own packed lunches in the hall with a fruit smoothie if they wish. Chilled drinking water is also available for all. Families in receipt of Income Support are entitled to free school meals, provided by a contract through County Hall. Information and forms are available from the School Office.

Nut Free School In the interests of children with nut allergies, please do not include any food containing nuts in your childs packed lunch. Smoking The Governors have adopted a "NO-SMOKING" policy. This means that the whole of the Durweston site has now been designated as a "No-Smoking" area. Smoking is not allowed at any time, including during lettings or weekend activities. Lunch At Durweston we believe that learning to eat properly is an important part of a child's education. Children are encouraged to have a hot school meal at lunchtime cooked by Local Food Links. Local Food Links Local Food Links is a not-for-profit organisation with a background in community food initiatives. They deliver freshly prepared hot meals to hundreds of school children across Dorset every day of every term. Their tasty menus change regularly, and feature some of the best fresh local and seasonal produce available. Parents or carers can order meals online at www.localfoodlinks.org.uk/schoolmeals. Children get a great value, healthy lunch that helps them

can bring their own fruit snack or parents can pay for one through the scheme. A bottle of water can be brought to school to take into the classroom. The School Office sells water bottles, which have been extensively tested and are proven to keep leaks to a minimum! Milk can also be ordered for drinking at break or lunchtime. Please see the office staff for more details.

The Curriculum
The first section of the 1993 Education Act states that every pupil in maintained schools is entitled to a curriculum which is balanced and broadly based and which, it says:

Promotes the social, spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils at the school and of society; and Prepares such pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life.

We do encourage families who are entitled to free school meals to claim for them (or to let our Secretary know they are eligible) as the total number is used by the DfES and Local Education Authority to help determine the funding delegated to the school budget. Snacks & Drinks Key Stage 1 children are given a fruit snack for morning break as part of the Fruit and Vegetable Scheme. Older children

This curriculum, around which our own school curriculum is developed, is made up of two parts: Religious Education The National Curriculum

The National Curriculum

Pupils excellent attitudes to school and capacity for hard work help them to do especially well academically OFSTED - April 2010 English The School is following the Primary Framework for Literacy. An hour of literacy is taught each day. It includes reading, writing, spelling, speaking and listening skills. We aim to promote language development by providing situations and activities that extend the children's experiences. We start with the knowledge they bring with them and encourage them to express themselves clearly through a variety of speaking and listening situations. We provide a wealth of good books - both fact and fiction and we aim to promote pleasure and enjoyment in the spoken, written and printed word. All children take books home to share, and we welcome responses and comments from parents. Our language programme will also provide a framework to support development of vocabulary, accurate reading, spelling and grammar. Children struggling with reading are helped with the Rapid Reading Scheme and we have seen dramatic improvements in reading age when children have been working on this. There is effective teaching across the school.lesson activities are interesting, motivate pupils to do well and are effectively targeted to help those of different abilities make good progress OFSTED - April 2010 Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger in Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame - July 2011

Maths The school is following the Primary Framework for Mathematics. We aim to enable each child to appreciate the purpose, power and relevance of mathematics. We hope that the children will find pleasure and enjoyment in mathematical activities and a confidence in their ability to achieve at an appropriate level. The children will participate in a mathematics programme comprising basic skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, measurement, data handling, probability and problem solving. Older children are expected to become familiar with their multiplication tables.

Science Durweston provides a stimulating environment in which the children are able to develop enquiring minds and use their abilities to solve problems in a scientific way. There are opportunities to enable the children to develop skills such as observing, patterning, experimenting, measuring, recording and communicating in four main areas, namely:the study of living things and their environment; materials and their characteristics; energy and its interaction with materials; and forces and their effects. The Science Coordinator leads a Gifted and Talented Science club with children recommended by the teacher as having a particular aptitude for the subject. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) The children use ICT across the National Curriculum to communicate ideas and information; investigate and analyse information; and control and monitor external events. ICT skills are taught using PCs, netbooks and Apple I-pads with a wide range of supporting equipment such as printers, scanners, cameras and recording equipment. All children have ready access to computers in the ICT suite and laptops are used widely around the school and outdoors. The school network has a wide selection of software to support and reinforce teaching in all subjects. All classrooms have an interactive whiteboard, an essential for 21st Century quality teaching and learning. The school website is an important part of ICT learning and is packed with links and resources for both children and parents.

Religious Education and Collective Worship The Church School Inspection Report states: The head teacher provides inspirational leadership Both the distinctiveness and effectiveness of Durweston Primary as a Church of England school are OUTSTANDING. Christian values are central to every aspect of the schools life. With good quality RE and a broad and varied curriculum pupils make outstanding personal progress Learnersreally flourish as individualsthey receive a high standard of care, guidance and support from a dedicated team of teachers and support staff. Pupils make a significant contribution to the school community which serves as an excellent preparation for responsible citizenship SIAS - May 2010 As a Voluntary Aided school, Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Trust Deed and Diocesan Guidelines for R.E. Denomination teaching is evident where appropriate. However, the school is aware of the 1988 Education Act and the teaching will reflect religious traditions as mainly Christian in Great Britain while taking into account other main religions. Full use is made of the links and opportunities afforded to us by close connections with the Parish Churches. Various clergy regularly visit the school and share worship with the children. The school aims to help our children develop a knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith as well as having respect and tolerance for others.

R.E. includes an awareness of the central beliefs of Christianity recognising and exploring religious experience exploring spiritual aspects of our daily lives an awareness of the importance of belief and faith for individuals familiarity with practice, language and symbols of different faiths recognising that an individual's faith affects his/her life and behaviour exploring places of worship and their worshipping communities understanding the central importance of Jesus to the Christian faith

Given in a context that stresses Christian values in family life and human relationships. For all children including those with physical learning or emotional difficulties

Parents are reminded that they have the right to withdraw their child from sex education lessons if they so wish. In this case, a letter from parents stating their wishes would be kept on file and other activities arranged for the child when these lessons are taking place. Further information concerning schemes of work can be found in the sex education policy. Children with Special Educational Needs The 1993 Education Act made provision in schools obligatory for children with special educational needs including those who find learning significantly more difficult than the majority of their peers and those with a sensory, physical or other disability. Under Part 4 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (as amended by the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001) schools must not treat disabled students less favourably, and must make reasonable adjustments to ensure they are not disadvantaged compared to their peers. The needs of individual pupils are met at Durweston by organising different levels of work within the same class, developing assessment strategies to observe the achievement of all children and involving all staff in curriculum planning and the purchase of resources. The school makes provision for able and talented pupils across the school. Detailed information can be found in the Special Educational Needs policy, which is based on the SEN Code of Practice.

At Durweston we also aim to help the children to develop their own personal growth, spiritual and faith development. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and Collective Worship, but it is hoped that this is done only after consultation with the Head Teacher.

Sex Education Sex education in our school aims to be: A partnership between children, parents, teachers and governors.

Excellent support for those pupils who have significant learning, language or behavioural needs helps them to do especially well. (OFSTED April 2010)

Music At Durweston we are keen to encourage children to try playing different musical instruments. Year 4 currently have whole class music lessons through Wider Opportunities Funding. There are 2 recorder groups for beginners and advanced led by teachers at Durweston and there are peripatetic teachers who come in to the school to teach: Strings - violin, cello & guitar, Piano Woodwind - flute & clarinet Brass - cornet & trombone Drums.

Durweston Folk Group playing at Durweston Church Fete Durweston also has a good reputation for strong and tuneful singing. Pupils and staff take part in singing every day and the choir is well attended as is the family carol singing around the village at Christmas time. All the children enjoy singing in parts in the annual whole-school musical production in the Summer Term. Reverend Stephen Coulter offers a ukulele club to our children at lunchtimes and parent classes are available in the community too.

Musicians are invited in to school to do demos , inspiring children to learn Anyone can start instrumental lessons after contacting the school office for costings. A maximum of 2 instrumental lessons can be taken in school at any one time.

Key Stage 1 School Results - 2011

These tables show the percentage of eligible children at the end of key stage 1 achieving each level in the school in July 2011. The number of eligible children is: 20. (therefore each child being approx 5%) Figures may not total 100 per cent because of rounding.

TEACHER ASSESSMENT W Speaking and listening* Reading Writing Mathematics Science*

W

1 30 35 35 35 30

2 45

Percentage at each level 3 or Disapplied 2C 2B 2A above children 25 0 15 5 10 30 20 40 10 15 15 10 25 10 0 0 0 0 0

Absent children 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0

60

Represents children who are working towards level 1, but have not yet achieved the standards needed for level 1.

* Results for speaking and listening and science are based on teacher assessment only whereas Reading, Writing & Maths teacher assessments are supported by test results using KS1 SATs papers.

Latest Key Stage 1 National Results (2010)

This table shows the percentage of eligible children achieving each level nationally at the end of key stage 1 in 2010. Figures may not total 100 per cent because of rounding.

Results of teacher assessment 2010 Percentage at each level W Speaking and listening Reading Writing Mathematics Science 1 2 2C 2B 2A 3 or above Disapplied children Absent children

2 3 4 2 2

11 12 15 9 9

66 12 21 16 68 23 28 26 24 20 26

21 26 12 20 21

0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0

'W' represents children who are working towards level 1, but have not yet achieved the standards needed for level 1.

Latest Key Stage 2 National Results (2010)

These tables show the percentage of year 6 pupils achieving each level nationally in 2010. Figures may not total 100 per cent because of rounding.
TEACHER ASSESSMENT Percentage at each level W English Mathematics Science 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 2 3 3 2 3 14 14 12 4 49 46 49 5 32 35 36 6 0 0 0 Pupils disapplied 0 0 0 Pupils absent 0 0 0

TEST RESULTS Percentage at each level Below level 3* English Reading Writing Mathematics 6 8 5 5 3 13 8 23 14 4 48 33 50 46 5 33 51 21 35 Pupils not entered# 0 0 0 0 Pupils absent 1 1 1 1

W *

represents pupils who are working towards level 1, but have not yet achieved the standards needed for level 1.

represents pupils who were not entered for the tests because they were working below level 3 in English, mathematics or science; pupils awarded a compensatory level from the tests; and pupils entered for but not achieving a level from the tests. #represents pupils working at the levels of the tests, but unable to access them.

Key Stage 2 School Results - 2011

These tables show the percentage of pupils at the end of key stage 2 achieving each level in the school in July 2011. The number of eligible children is: 10. (therefore each child being approx 10%) Figures may not total 100 per cent because of rounding.

TEACHER ASSESSMENT Percentage at each level W English Mathematics Science 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 10 0 0 4 10 20 20 5 80 80 80 6 0 0 0 Pupils disapplied 0 0 0 Pupils absent 0 0 0

PARENTS AND THE SCHOOL

Parents are very positive about the school and the care and teaching their children receive. Church School inspection - May 2010. Home and School Through home visits and visiting playgroups and nurseries, we establish contact with each child and her/his parents before entry to school and we very much appreciate parents bringing their child to school on preliminary visits before entering too. This enables both parent and child to become accustomed to their new surroundings and teachers. To this end we arrange three visits towards the end of the term before the child starts school and also a new parents' evening. Home School Agreements are sent home annually for all children and their parents to sign. Parents' Help in School

everyone can commit themselves on a regular basis, although if they can this is most welcome for hearing readers, working with small groups, helping out on school trips and welly walks and supporting our very large range of after school clubs. Equally the occasional helping hand would be greatly appreciated. We have recently achieved the Every Child Matters (ECM) Quality Mark Gold equivalent to Ofsted Outstanding. The Parent Action Group is very strong and we are always looking for new volunteers to join this effective team who aim to drive forward the ECM agenda: being healthy, staying safe, enjoy and achieve, positive contribution and economic wellbeing using the help of other parents, children and staff when necessary.

TEST RESULTS Percentage at each level 4 20 20 20 20 5 80 80 80 80 Pupils not entered# 0 0 0 0 Pupils absent 0 0 0 0

Parental support Below is very valuable 3 level 3* to the school in English 0 0 so many ways Reading 0 0 and there are areas of life in Writing 0 0 our school which Mathematics 0 0 would be almost impossible without parents' help. All parent helpers are CRB checked for safeguarding purposes. We realise that not

Country Dancing at Durweston Church Fete

Provision for Working Parents

Breakfast Club A Breakfast Club runs from 8am 9am at the school for parents who need this provision in order to work. It is 2.50 per session. Please ask in the office if you require more details. After school Club At Durweston, we have arrangements with:

This simply means that parents or prospective parents who wish to visit the school or spend time observing the children are encouraged to do so and no appointment is necessary. Even though we welcome parents into school to discuss their child's work at any time that is convenient to both teacher and parent, we have found that holding a 'surgery' at an appointed time in the evening has been very much appreciated. Parents' evenings are held in the Autumn, Spring and Summer term. Parent Teacher Association The school has a very committed and hard working P.T.A. that raises a great deal of money for school use. Past fundraising events have included our popular Yearbook, cake sales, Christmas cards, tea towels, Christmas Craft Fayre, Easter egg raffle, May Fair, & ice cream sales. The A.G.M. is held in September. Please get involved!

Archways Nursery (contact Sandra Slater Tel: 01258 454602) o Bright Sparks (contact Sharon Kevern - 07896 811844) Children from Durweston can be picked up by minibus and taken to these after school clubs. Children will receive a drink and light snack. The facility runs up to 6pm. If you require further information, please speak to our office staff. Holiday Clubs Both of the facilities listed above offer holiday clubs and our local churches often offer some holiday provision too. Parents' Evenings We have what we call an 'open door' policy at our school.

SCHOOL ORGANISATION
School Uniform Sensible black or navy shoes for both girls and boys GIRLS Plain white or blue blouse or polo shirt School sweatshirt or school cardigan Black or grey skirt/pinafore dress/trousers White, grey or navy blue socks/tights Summer Term: Any blue print dress/skirt or winter uniform BOYS - Grey or black trousers Plain white or blue shirt or polo shirt School sweatshirt Summer Term:

Grey or black shorts Plain white or blue shirt or winter uniform. All uniform is available to buy from Ragtags in Blandford or by ordering from School Trends online with free delivery to the school. Please mark all bags and clothing clearly with the childs surname. Jewellery is unsuitable for school wear. We would ask that no rings, necklaces etc are worn and if children have their ears pierced only plain silver or gold studs should be worn. Hair styles need to be smart and long hair tied back in games lessons. P.E. and Games Kit All children will need the following clothing: White T-Shirt Black Shorts Plimsolls or trainers A track suit for games may be worn in colder weather. P.E. bags with the school logo on them can be purchased Durweston High Five netball team 2010-2011 Discipline We encourage a sense of self-discipline even with the youngest children. We help the children to learn to have care and consideration for others and a sense of responsibility in handling property belonging to the school, themselves and others. Should there be problems with a particular child our policy is to contact his/her parents immediately. We find that children are best helped when parents and teachers understand each other and work together. Further information concerning disciplinary procedures can be found in the school's 'Behaviour Policy'. Complaints Procedure

If you wish to make a complaint under Section 23 of the Education Reform Act, copies of the local arrangements procedure to be followed should be requested from the Head Teacher, or alternatively are available at local libraries or from the County Education Officer, Childrens Services, County Hall, Dorchester DT1 1XJ.

Head Teacher. Forms are available from the school office on request. Children earn termly certificates for attendance Bronze (beating last terms %) Silver (98%+) or Gold (100% attendance). There is also a class reward system. Emergencies/ Contacting Parents It is vital that we should be able to contact a parent during the school day. Please ensure that we have the correct home telephone number and / or mobile telephone number or the number of a neighbour/relative for our records. We use a Teachers 2 Parents text messaging service for last minute cancellations etc which is proving popular with parents. Every effort is also made to inform parents via weekly newsletter and the school website.

HEALTH AND WELFARE

Routine Medical Checks The school nurse makes regular visits to the school to carry out hearing tests, eye tests and general check-ups. She also assists in health education and sex education lessons. Absence from School We are legally obliged to complete attendance registers. The register is marked online at the beginning of the morning and afternoon sessions, recording all absences. The reason for the absence must be stated - this includes late arrivals. Parents must ensure that their children arrive at school between 8.50 a.m. and 9.00 a.m. The school must be informed if a child is to be absent by:

o o

Sending a note signed by the parent / carer Making a 'phone call before 9.00 a.m.

Holidays during term time are discouraged. However, exceptional absences need to be approved in advance by the

Durweston Spring Term Welly Walk

Charges for School Activities

Security The Governors ensure that staff and children are made aware of all issues related to personal safety and security. Please ensure that you enter the school site at the school office where you will be asked to sign in. Thank you. Child Protection The Staff and Governors undertake to care for every child at Durweston. If you want to know more about our Safeguarding procedures, please speak to the Head Teacher. If anyone has concern for the safety/ welfare of a child/children, please do not hesitate to approach the Head Teacher /Designated Senior Person for their advice and decision on the matter. The Head Teacher and/or Deputy DSP will take the action deemed necessary with regard to the circumstances. Our first priority is your childs welfare and therefore there may be occasions when our concern about your child means that we have to consult other agencies before we contact you. The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Area Child Protection Committee have determined the procedures we follow. Sun Protection Guidelines These guidelines were produced by parents, staff and pupils on School Council in May 2009 and are available from the school office on request. RE: EDUCATION ACT 1993 The objectives of the charging provisions are: To maintain the right to free school education. To establish that activities offered wholly or mainly during normal teaching time should be available to all pupils regardless of their parents ability or willingness to help meet the cost. To emphasise that there is no statutory requirement to charge for any form of education or related activity, but to give LAs and schools the discretion to charge for optional activities provided wholly or mainly out of school hours. To confirm the right of LAs and schools to invite voluntary contributions for the benefit of the school, or in support of any activity organised by the school, whether during or outside school hours.

There is no obligation to contribute to activities; pupils will not be treated differently according to whether or not the parents have made a contribution but if there is not sufficient money collected for a trip, the trip cannot go ahead. The school makes no profit on any visit. Indeed, many trips are subsidised out of the school budget.

Year 4 visit - Corfe Castle June 2011

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The enthusiasm and interests of the teachers at Durweston mean that a variety of extra-curricular activities are available to the pupils during lunchtimes and after school. The activities are offered by the teachers over and above their curriculum and teaching responsibilities, and often require the support of parents. Clubs offered have included: Chess, Ukulele, Choir, Recorders, Netball, Football, Tag Rugby, Cricket, Rounders, Athletics, Aerobics, Cross country, Tae Kwon Do, Dance, Gymnastics, Drama, Art, Cookery and Sewing.

Shroving at Durweston Shrove Tuesday 2011

Rates of authorised and unauthorised absence School and National data

School data 2010-2011 Authorised absence The White Rabbit in Alice the Musical July 2010 Unauthorised absence 4.1% 0.3% National comparative data 2009-2010 4.67% 0.68%

Durweston CE VA Primary School Holiday Dates 2011-12

Autumn Term 2011
Term Begins Monday 5th September 2011

Spring Term 2012

Term Begins Tuesday 3rd January 2012

Summer Term 2012

Term Begins Monday 16th April 2012 May Day Holiday

Half Term Monday 24 Friday 28 October 2011 Term Ends Friday 16th December 2011
th th

Half Term Monday 13th Friday 17th February 2012

7th May 2012 Half Term Monday 4th June Friday 8th June 2012 Term Ends Friday 20th July 2012

Term Ends Friday 30th March 2012

Please note there are 5 staff training days each year and these are planned for: Monday 5th September & Monday 17th October 2011 & Tuesday 3rd January, Monday 30th January and Monday 16th April 2012

Durweston CE VA Primary School Holiday Dates 2012-13

Autumn Term 2012
Term Begins Tuesday 4th September 2012

Spring Term 2013

Term Begins Monday 7th January 2013

Summer Term 2013

Term Begins Monday 15th April 2013 May Day Holiday

Half Term Monday 29 October - Friday 2nd November

th

Half Term Monday 18th Friday 22nd February

6th May Half Term Monday 27th May Friday 31st May

Term Ends Term Ends Friday 21st December 2012 Thursday 28th March 2013 Term Ends Wednesday 24th July 2013

Please note that there will be five staff training days to be added into this academic year. Dates will be decided later and you will be informed through our regular newsletters.

With grateful thanks to Brenda Cripps who allowed us to use her drawing of the school on the cover of this prospectus