Guide to Education Services September 2015

The information in this Guide is intended to help you understand the arrangements for admitting children to schools in Flintshire. It explains your rights and responsibilities and will answer many of your questions. Although every effort is made to ensure that information is correct at the same time of publication there may be changes to the details or procedures outlined. Due to School Modernisation, some school capacities and Admission Numbers may be subject to change If there is anything in this Guide which is not clear, or you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact:-

• Principal Primary Officer 01352 704019

• Principal Secondary Officer 01352 704018

• Head of Inclusion Service 01352 704017

• General Admission Enquiries 01352 704068/704073 ` admissions@flintshire.gov.uk

• Home to School Transport – Eligibility 01352 704068 school.transport@flintshire.gov.uk

General School Transport Enquiries 01352 704532

• Education Benefits – Business Support 01352 704086/4087/4088 This Guide is also available online at www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools/schooladmissions

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Timetable 2014/15

Admission

Phase Admission packs available to parents w/c

Parents’ consideration

period

Closing date for receipt of completed forms

Allocation period by LA/admitting authority

Parents informed by:

Secondary 01/09/14 01/09/14 -24/10/14

24/10/14 27/10/14 – 30/01/15

01/03/15

Reception, Infants to Juniors

29/09/14 29/09/14 – 28/11/14

28/11/14 01/12/14 – 06/03/15

16/04/15

Nursery 05/01/15 05/01/14 – 20/02/15

20/02/15 23/02/15 – 02/04/15

15/05/15

Application forms must be returned to the Local Authority by the closing date. Your child may have less opportunity to be allocated to your preferred school if your application is received after the closing date. Late Applications Late applications will be considered after those received by the closing date if the Local Authority considers that there are good reasons for the application form being late which must be included with the application form. For example, exceptional medical reasons preventing an earlier application, recent move of house – supporting evidence must be provided. If the Admission Number for the requested school has been reached, parents will be offered the right to an appeal. All late applications will be ranked in accordance with the admission criteria and any places which become available will be offered to the highest ranking applicants up to the end of the allocation period. The Process for offering school places If you apply for a place at a Flintshire community school pupils will be admitted unless applications exceed the Admission Number for that school. When this occurs, the Local Authority applies the published admission criteria to rank all preferences expressed to see who can be offered a place. All preferences received will be considered on the basis of equal preferences. This means parents may express a number of preferences that will be considered in the same way without reference to a preference ranking. If a place can be offered at more than one of the preferences expressed (because a preferred school is undersubscribed or because the applicant has a high enough priority against the criteria for an oversubscribed school, or because a school receives the same number of applications as the number of places available), the place offered will be for the school ranked highest on the application. If you express a preference for a voluntary aided school or foundation school in Flintshire the relevant school will be sent your details. The timetable for admissions (above) also applies to voluntary aided and foundation schools. These schools are responsible for considering your child’s application against others received in accordance with their own admission criteria. The school governors should use the school’s own admission criteria to rank applications and make offers of places. Any preferences not met will be returned to the local authority and will be treated equally with other preferences expressed for Flintshire Community Schools. Please note neighbouring local authorities’ timetables may be different to those above but Flintshire will work closely with neighbouring LAs to coordinate admission arrangements. If the school for which you wish to express a preference is in another county please contact the respective Local Authority to ensure you do not miss the closing date. Denbighshire County Council Wrexham County Borough Council County Hall Children and Young People Service Wynnstay Road 3rd Floor Ruthin Lambpit Street Denbighshire Wrexham LL15 1YN LL11 1AR Tel: 01824 706101 Tel: 01978 295425

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Cheshire West & Chester Authority Children and Young People’s Services School Admissions Wyvern House, The Drumber Winsford, Cheshire CW7 1AH Tel: 0300 123 7039 Policy for Admissions to Schools The County Council, as the Local Authority, is responsible for determining the arrangements for admissions to all Community Primary, Welsh Medium Primary, Secondary, Welsh Medium Secondary, Special Schools and Voluntary Controlled Schools. The Local Authority will consult annually with school Governing Bodies and the Diocesan Education Authorities in relation to admissions. The Local Authority will comply with statutory requirements and the Welsh Government School Admissions Code and will take account of the expression of parental preference in the context of its duty to ensure the provision of effective education and the efficient use of education resources. When considering applications, the Local Authority will observe the provisions of the School Admissions Code which states that admission authorities should admit to the school’s admission number and will rarely be able to prove prejudice as a ground for refusing an additional pupil while the numbers remain below the admission number. In the case of sixth form admissions, applications may be made by either the parent or the young person or both. The Local Authority will comply with its duty to ensure the provision of effective education and the efficient use of resources. In so doing, the Local Authority will have regard to the total resources, including accommodation and staffing, available to each school and any constraints imposed by the school organisation and curriculum. It will also consider the resource implications for the authority and impact on other education policies. The Admission Number for each school relates to the number of children that can be admitted to each year group during the school year. The Admission Number for each school is calculated using the capacity assessment method in the Welsh Government’s guidance document ‘Measuring the Capacity of Schools in Wales’. All school Admission Numbers are included on the ‘Schools List’. The Local Authority will not expand a school to meet demand which does not comply with the admissions criteria. When a parent gives fraudulent or intentionally misleading information in order to obtain a place at a school for their child, the Local Authority reserves the right to withdraw the offer of a place. Where a place is withdrawn on the basis of misleading information, the application must be considered afresh and a right of appeal offered if a place is refused. Admissions Procedure The annual admissions procedure applicable to the relevant age group includes the following stages:

• Publication of the ‘Guide to Education Services’.

• Arrangements to enable parents to express a preference for a school they wish their child/children to attend, and, in the case of sixth form admissions, expression of a preference by either a parent or a young person or both. By law, parents who express a preference are given priority for admission over those who do not. If a parent does not express a preference, it is less likely that the child will be offered a place at the preferred school.

• Consideration of preferences in accordance with the admissions criteria, up to the Admission

Number for each school.

Please Note Expressing a preference does not guarantee a place at your chosen school if that school is oversubscribed. If more parents apply for places at the school than the number of places

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available, the Authority will apply the oversubscription criteria for allocating places as set out in the policy. Welsh Language Policy for all schools The Authority’s Welsh Language Policy aims to ensure that all pupils reach a standard of bilingualism. It will be the responsibility of the Authority, in conjunction with the Headteacher and the School Governors, to ensure the teaching of both Welsh and English is in accordance with National Curriculum requirements. Primary Education will be provided for all children mainly through the medium of English, or mainly through the medium of Welsh. Secondary Education will be provided for all children mainly through the medium of English, or mainly through the medium of Welsh. To ensure continuity with the primary schools, Welsh will be taught as a second language in all secondary schools where the main medium of instruction is English. Flintshire County Council, working in partnership with schools will provide parents with full information and understanding of the advantages of Welsh medium education and the opportunities which exist within Flintshire, explaining clearly that

• there is no need for parents to be Welsh speakers for their children to take advantage of this opportunity

• receiving education in a designated Welsh medium school enables pupils to become fully bilingual

• there are intellectual advantages to being equally fluent in two languages Pupils who have received their education through the medium of Welsh in primary school transfer to the Welsh medium Secondary School (Ysgol Maes Garmon) at Key Stage 3. Pupils can transfer from English medium primary schools to the Welsh medium Secondary School where they will be offered the immersion scheme that is available at the end of Year 6 and all the way through Year 7. For further details about the scheme please contact Ysgol Maes Garmon Tel: 01352 750678. Admission Phases Early Entitlement to Education A part-time education place is available for every child the term after his/her third birthday. Children born in… Entitled to… Autumn Term 2 terms of educational provision (Spring and

Summer) Spring Term 1 term of educational provision (Summer) Children born in the Summer term receive their education entitlement in the school nursery classes in the Autumn term after their 3rd birthday. Parents may state a preference for an approved setting which may be a pre school playgroup (English or Welsh), a private day nursery, a ‘network’ childminder or school nursery class. Applications for early entitlement are made directly to the setting. Forms are available all year. Notes: 1. Admission to an Early Entitlement setting at a particular school does not guarantee subsequent admission to nursery at that school. 2. No transport is provided. For further information on approved settings please contact: Family Information Service, Tel: 01244 547017.

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Nursery Local Authorities in Wales have a duty to provide sufficient nursery places in their area. A child becomes eligible for a place at a nursery class in the September following the child’s 3rd birthday. Nursery education is not compulsory and parents have no right of appeal regarding nursery admissions under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. Nursery schooling in all schools/units will be provided on the basis of 5 x 2.5 hour sessions per week for each child. Parents may express a preference for any nursery irrespective of where the child’s home is in relation to the school. However, expressing a preference does not guarantee a place at that nursery. In the event of oversubscription, applications for nursery places will be dealt with by applying the oversubscription criteria in respect of primary schools as set out in this Guide. When making the decision about the ‘nearest suitable school’ the Authority will accept only the pupil’s home address and not that, for example, of childminder or grandparents. Parents will be asked to provide official documentation showing home address. Parents are advised that a school place may be lawfully withdrawn if the information given on their application form is fraudulent or misleading. Application forms for nursery school admission are available from the Admissions Team, all nursery/infant/primary schools and on www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools/schooladmissions. The forms will be available according to admissions timetable as set out in this Guide. Notes: 1. Admission to a nursery class at a particular Infant or Primary School does not guarantee subsequent admission to reception class at that school. 2. No transport provided.

Primary The Authority will admit a child to a maintained infant/primary school at the beginning of the school year if the child has achieved his/her 4th birthday on or before August 31st of that calendar year. A Parental Preference Form will be made available for parents (please see timetable for admissions), and parents are invited to express a preference for one or more schools and may give a reason for the preference/s. Once a reception place has been offered and accepted, parents may defer their child’s entry until the start of the term following the child’s 5th birthday. Parents are not able to defer entry beyond this point, or beyond the academic year for which the original application was accepted. For pupils transferring from infant to junior school a parental preference form will be sent to each parent/guardian. Parents may express a preference for their nearest junior school or may express a preference for another school, which will be processed in accordance with the admissions criteria. In accordance with legislation, infant class sizes (Reception, Year 1 and Year 2) are restricted to a limit of no more than 30 per school teacher. In respect of junior classes (Year 3 to Year 6), the target is no more than 30 per school teacher. Oversubscription Criteria All pupils will be admitted if the Admission Number has not been reached. However, if the Admission Number has been reached, applications will be considered against the oversubscription criteria, which are listed in priority order.

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Criteria to be applied in order of priority by the Local Authority for admission to Nursery, Infant, or Primary Schools: a) the LA will consider the needs of a ‘looked after child’ (child in care) and ‘previously looked after

child’ b) pupils for whom the preferred school is the nearest appropriate school to the pupil’s home

address c) pupils who have expressed a preference for a school which is not the nearest to their home

address will be admitted if they have a sister or brother attending the preferred school d) pupils for whom the preferred school is not the nearest to their home address Tie-breaker If there are more applicants than places in any of the above categories, priority will be given to applicants living nearest the school, measured from the child’s home address to the recognised main entrance of the school. If the authority is unable to comply with the parental preference(s) expressed then the parent will be offered a place at the next nearest appropriate school with an available place. Where a school is named in a Statement of Special Educational Needs, the local authority has a duty to admit the child to that school. Where the number of applications on behalf of other pupils is equal to or less than the number of places remaining, all applications will be agreed. However, where the number of applications exceeds the number of places remaining, the oversubscription criteria will be applied. Junior School Parents of pupils transferring from Infant to Junior School will be given the opportunity to express a preference and places will be allocated using the following criteria: a) the LA will consider the needs of a ‘looked after child’ (child in care) and ‘previously looked after

child’ b) pupils for whom the preferred school is the nearest appropriate school to the pupil’s home

address c) pupils who have attended the ‘feeder’ infant school and for whom the preferred school is the

nearest appropriate school d) pupils who have expressed a preference for a school which is not the nearest to their home

address will be admitted if they have a sister or brother attending the preferred school e) pupils who attend the ‘feeder’ infant school but for whom the preferred school is not the nearest to

their home address f) pupils for whom the preferred school is not the nearest to their home address Tie-breaker If there are more applicants than places in any of the above categories, priority will be given to applicants living nearest the school, measured from the child’s home address to the recognised main entrance of the school. If the authority is unable to comply with the parental preference(s) expressed then the parent will be offered a place at the next nearest appropriate school with an available place.

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Where a school is named in a Statement of Special Educational Needs, the local authority has a duty to admit the child to that school. Where the number of applications on behalf of other pupils is equal to or less than the number of places remaining, all applications will be agreed. However, where the number of applications exceeds the number of places remaining, the oversubscription criteria will be applied. Secondary Pupils will normally be transferred from a primary to a secondary school in the September following their eleventh birthday. A Parental Preference Form will be made available for parents (please see timetable for admissions), and parents are invited to express a preference for one or more schools and may give a reason for the preference/s. All pupils will be admitted if the Admission Number has not been reached. However, if the Admission Number has been reached, applications will be considered against the oversubscription criteria, which are listed in priority order. Criteria to be applied in order of priority by the Local Authority for admissions to Secondary Schools: a) the LA will consider the needs of a ‘looked after child’ (child in care) and ‘previously looked after

child’ b) pupils for whom the preferred school is the nearest appropriate school to the pupil’s home

address c) where a preference is expressed for a school other than the nearest to a pupil’s home address,

where an older brother or sister is registered and will still be attending when the younger sibling will be starting, the younger sibling will be admitted to that school. The ‘sibling rule’ will only be applied for the statutory period of education i.e. between the Years 7-11 to enable the Local Authority to plan the provision of school places.

d) where a preference has been expressed for a school other than the nearest to a pupil’s home

address and there is no brother or sister attending that school, pupils will be admitted in order of proximity to that alternative school and up to its Admission Number.

Tie-breaker If there are more applicants than places in any of the above categories, priority will be given to applicants living nearest the school, measured from the child’s home address to the recognised main entrance of the school. If the authority is unable to comply with the parental preference(s) expressed, then the parent will be offered a place at the next nearest appropriate school with an available place. Where a school is named in a Statement of Special Educational Needs, the local authority has a duty to admit the child to that school. Where the number of applications on behalf of other pupils is equal to or less than the number of places remaining, all applications will be agreed. However, where the number of applications exceeds the number of places remaining, the oversubscription criteria will be applied. The nearest appropriate school is interpreted as: (a) the school nearest to the child’s home measured from child’s home address to the recognised main entrance of the school. (b) the nearest Welsh medium school where parents wish their children to receive their education through the medium of Welsh.

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(c) the nearest Denominational school where parents wish to have their children educated in a denominational school. The Council uses Routefinder, a network analysis system fully integrated into the Geographical Information System (GIS) software, to calculate home to school distance in miles. The shortest route is calculated from an applicant’s home address to the recognised main entrance of the school. It should be noted that transport will only be provided in accordance with the Council’s Transport Policy. Sibling (brother/sister) A sibling is defined as a full, half, step, foster or adopted brother or sister living together as one household at the same address and where the elder sibling is of statutory school age and will still be registered at the preferred school (or, in the case of an infant school, attending the partner junior school) when the younger child is eligible to attend. In considering siblings, first priority will be given to applications from multiple birth children. Multiple Birth Children Twins, triplets, quadruplets, etc, residing at the same address and applying for places in the same year group will be given priority for admission in the main admissions round under the ‘sibling’ criteria. If it is not possible to offer places to all multiple birth children residing at the same address and applying for places in the same year group, the Authority will offer places for all of those multiple birth children at the next nearest appropriate school with available places. Admissions to schools other than those maintained by the LA Parents wishing to express a preference for a school in a county other than Flintshire should still use the Flintshire preference form and it will be passed to the relevant Local Authority, with the exception of Cheshire West and Chester Council who request you contact them directly. Please be aware of each Authority’s admission timetable and closing dates. Notifying Parents The outcome of an application for admission will be notified to parents in writing. Where the application has been refused, the letter will set out the reasons for the decision and the right of appeal and a return proforma will be sent. Parents will be asked to decide by a specified date one or more of the following options:-

• Place child’s name on a waiting list • Proceed to appeal and place child’s name on a waiting list • Accept the place offered at an alternative school for which preference has been expressed • Make a new application for an alternative school

Waiting Lists Waiting lists for oversubscribed schools will be prepared and will consist of those children whose parents have specifically requested in writing (including email) to be placed on the school’s waiting list, those for whom an appeal form has been received and any late applications. Waiting lists will be maintained until 30 September in the school year concerned. After that date, any parents still wishing to be considered for a place must specifically request in writing to remain on a waiting list. Admission of Pupils from outside Flintshire Pupils applying for admission to a school in Flintshire who do not reside in Flintshire will be offered a place at a school in accordance with the admissions policy.

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Change of School within Flintshire during the year Schools in Flintshire have an agreed protocol for transfers from one nominated school to another other than at the normal transition point. A parent seeking such a transfer should initially speak to the headteacher of the child’s current school to discuss the reasons for that transfer. If, following this discussion, the parent wishes to continue the process, contact should then be made with the headteacher of the new school. Headteachers will refer parents to the Local Authority, particularly in cases where pupil numbers in the new school have exceeded the Admission Number in the appropriate year group. In such circumstances admission to the new school may be refused. Parents who are dissatisfied with this may give notice of appeal, as outlined below. Admissions other than at normal entry point (ie September each year) For pupils moving into the area at times other than the normal admission round (September of each year), the Local Authority will endeavour to meet parental preferences as far as possible. Where a school is oversubscribed, parents will be offered a place at an alternative school. The parent may then accept the alternative placement, or may give notice of appeal. Appeals Procedure If the Authority is unable to comply with the parental preference the parent will be given the reason in writing and offered a place at another school. The parent may then accept the alternative placement and may give notice of appeal. Information on how to appeal will be provided. Details describing the appeals procedure are also available on www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools/schooladmissions. Alternatively, please contact the Access Officer on 01352 704068. Appeals must be made in writing giving reasons, and sent to the Access Officer. The Authority will initiate the appeals procedure. Appeals will be heard within 30 school days of the appeal being received in writing (or within 30 working days if received during the school summer holidays). Every effort will be made to hear appeals as quickly as possible. The parents, or parent accompanied by a friend if desired, will be given an opportunity to appear before an Independent Appeal Panel. The decision of the Independent Panel will be notified to the parent in writing and is final and binding on all parties. Provision for Children with Additional Needs The Authority must have regard to the Code of Practice for Special Educational Needs when identifying, assessing and providing for children with additional needs. Some children may require special educational provision which is over and above that which a mainstream school could reasonably be expected to provide. The Local Authority will assess the needs of such pupils in accordance with the guidelines laid down by the Code of Practice. Where the assessment indicates this to be necessary, it will arrange for extra provision to be made for them. This provision will be included in a statement of special educational need for the child concerned. This document is negotiated with parents and schools. It states the child’s needs and how and where those needs will be met. All Governing Bodies have a Governor with responsibility for the Special Needs Policy, which parents are entitled to see. Each school has an Additional Needs Co-ordinator who oversees the day to day operation of the policy. Parents who wish to discuss any aspect of their child’s additional educational needs should first contact his or her Headteacher. Admissions to Special Schools Special Schools will normally only admit pupils with a statement of special educational need issued under the 1996 Education Act. In exceptional circumstances, they will admit pupils who are being assessed under the 1996 Education Act. The statementing procedure is administered by the Inclusion Service at County Hall. (Telephone: 01352 704028/704029).

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Ysgol Derwen Foundation Primary School Oversubscription Criteria Pupils will be admitted to full time education in the year in which they attain the age of 5. Where applications for admissions exceed the number of places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set out below up to the admission number of 28.

1. The School will consider the needs of a “looked after child” or a “previously looked after child” (child in care) and pupils with a statement of educational needs for whom the school is the nearest appropriate school to the pupils home address.

2. Pupils for whom the school is the nearest appropriate school to the pupil’s home

address

3. Pupils who have expressed a preference for the school and it is not the nearest to their home address may be admitted if they have an older sibling already in full time education at the school in the term when they begin in reception.

4. All other applications Within each category priority will be given to those living nearer the School. Distance from the school will be measured from the child’s home address to the recognized main entrance of the school. This will be the shortest distance by all-purpose public highway and all other rights of way with paved and/or metalled surface. Public footpaths and bridleways across fields are specifically excluded.

Ysgol Derwen uses the same system as Flintshire County Council as an aid when calculating the distance from school to the child’s home address. Routefinder is a network analysis system fully integrated into the Geographical Information System(GIS) which calculates the Home to School distance. The shortest route is calculated from the applicant’s home address to the recognized main entrance of the school.

Denominational Schools – over-subscription criteria Church in Wales Primary Schools Hawarden Village Church in Wales Voluntary Aided Primary School – Admission policy currently being determined. St Ethelwold’s Church in Wales VA Primary School, Shotton Over-subscription Criteria The Governors have agreed that In the event that the school is oversubscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below, to decide which pupils to admit.

a) Looked after children who are baptised members of the Church in Wales b) Looked after children of other Faiths c) Pupils whose home address is within the ecclesiastical parish boundaries of St Ethelwold’s (giving a higher priority to pupils who also meet criteria (d) below) d) Pupils with a sibling who will continue to be at the school in the next academic year i.e. not in Year 6. (see definition of sibling). e) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to St. Ethelwold’s Church, Shotton f) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to another Anglican Church and for whom this is the nearest Aided School. g) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are active members of a non-Anglican Christian denomination and for them this is the nearest Church School.

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h) Pupils whose parents are active members of another faith and also express a desire for a Church School education. i) Other pupils.

Exceptional medical circumstances (supported by medical evidence) may override the above. Please note, any child for whom the school is named in a statement of special educational needs will be admitted before the application of oversubscription criteria. For criteria e-h the Governors will seek information about the frequency of attendance at services and degree of involvement in the work of the church and seek confirmation of these details from the local priest or minister. Within each category those living nearest to the school are accorded higher priority. St John the Baptist Church in Wales VA Primary School, Pentrobin Over-subscription Criteria The Governors have agreed that In the event that the school is oversubscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below, to decide which pupils to admit.

a) Looked after children who are baptised members of the Church in Wales b) Looked after children of other Faiths c) Pupils whose home address is within the ecclesiastical parish boundaries of Saint John the Baptist Church, Penymynydd (giving a higher priority to pupils who also meet criteria (d) below) d) Pupils with a sibling who will continue to be at the school in the next academic year i.e. not in Year 6. (see definition of sibling). e) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to St. John’s Church, Penymynydd. f) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to another Anglican Church and for whom this is the nearest Aided School. g) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are active members of a non-Anglican Christian denomination and for them this is the nearest Church School. h) Pupils whose parents are active members of another faith and also express a desire for a Church School education. i) Other pupils.

Exceptional medical circumstances (supported by medical evidence) may override the above. Please note, any child for whom the school is named in a statement of special educational needs will be admitted before the application of oversubscription criteria. For criteria e-h the Governors will seek information about the frequency of attendance at services and degree of involvement in the work of the church and seek confirmation of these details from the local priest or minister. Within each category those living nearest to the school are accorded higher priority. St Mary’s Church in Wales VA Primary School, Nercwys Over-subscription Criteria The Governors have agreed that In the event that the school is oversubscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below, to decide which pupils to admit.

a) Looked after children who are baptised members of the Church in Wales b) Other looked after children c) Pupils with exceptional medical circumstances (supported by medical evidence) d) Pupils whose home address is within the ecclesiastical parish boundaries of Nercwys

(giving a higher priority to pupils who also meet criteria (e) below) (a map showing the ecclesiastical parish boundaries of Nercwys is available at the school and/or on the school website)

e) Pupils with a sibling who will continue to be at the school in the next academic year i.e. not in Year 6. (see definition of sibling).

f) Pupils whose parents (see definition) attend St. Mary’s Church, Nercwys

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g) Pupils whose parents (see definition) attend another Anglican Church and for whom this is the nearest Aided School.

h) Pupils whose parents (see definition in the attached supplementary information form) are active members of a non-Anglican Christian denomination and for them this is the nearest Church School.

i) Pupils whose parents are active members of another faith and also express a desire for a Church School education.

j) Other pupils. Please note, any child for whom the school is named in a statement of special educational needs will be admitted before the application of oversubscription criteria. For criteria e-h the Governors will seek information about the frequency of attendance at services and degree of involvement in the work of the church and seek confirmation of these details from the local priest or minister on a supplementary form which can be found attached to this policy. Within each category those living nearest to the school are accorded higher priority. Trelawnyd Church in Wales VA Primary School Over-subscription Criteria The Governors have agreed that In the event that the school is oversubscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below, to decide which pupils to admit.

a) Looked after children who are baptised members of the Church in Wales b) Looked after children of other Faiths c) Pupils whose home address is within the ecclesiastical parish boundaries by Trelawnyd, Cwm and Dyserth (as defined by parish map) (giving a higher priority to pupils who also meet criteria (d) below) d) Pupils with a sibling who will continue to be at the school in the next academic year i.e. not in Year 6. (see definition of sibling). e) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to St. Michaels Church, Trelawnyd. f) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to another Anglican Church and for whom this is the nearest Aided School. g) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are active members of a non-Anglican Christian denomination and for them this is the nearest Church School. h) Pupils whose parents are active members of another faith and also express a desire for a Church School education. i) Other pupils.

Exceptional medical circumstances (supported by medical evidence) may override the above. Please note, any child for whom the school is named in a statement of special educational needs will be admitted before the application of oversubscription criteria. For criteria e-h the Governors will seek information about the frequency of attendance at services and degree of involvement in the work of the church and seek confirmation of these details from the local priest or minister. Within each category those living nearest to the school are accorded higher priority. Ysgol Yr Esgob, Church in Wales VA Primary School, Caerwys Over-subscription Criteria The Governors have agreed that In the event that the school is oversubscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below, to decide which pupils to admit.

a) Looked after children who are baptised members of the Church in Wales b) Looked after children of other Faiths c) Pupils whose home address is within the ecclesiastical parish boundaries of Caerwys and Bodfari (as defined by parish map) (giving a higher priority to pupils who also meet criteria (d) below d) Pupils with a sibling who will continue to be at the school in the next academic year i.e. not in

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Year 6. e) Pupils whose parents are attached to St.Michael’s Church, Caerwys. f) Pupils whose parents are attached to another Anglican Church and for whom this is the nearest Aided School. g) Pupils whose parents are active members of a non-Anglican Christian denomination and for them this is the nearest Church School. h) Pupils whose parents are active members of another faith and also express a desire for a Church School education. i) Other pupils.

Exceptional medical circumstances (supported by medical evidence) may override the above. Please note, any child for whom the school is named in a statement of special educational needs will be admitted before the application of oversubscription criteria. For criteria e-h the Governors will seek information about the frequency of attendance at services and degree of involvement in the work of the church and seek confirmation of these details from the local priest or minister. Within each category those living nearest to the school are accorded higher priority. Ysgol y Llan Church in Wales VA Primary School, Whitford Oversubscription Criteria The Governors have agreed that In the event that the school is oversubscribed the following criteria will be applied in the order set out below, to decide which pupils to admit.

a) Looked after children who are baptised members of the Church in Wales b) Looked after children of other Faiths c) Looked After Children who are neither baptised or of another faith d) Pupils whose home address is within the ecclesiastical parish boundaries of Whitford (giving a higher priority to pupils who also meet criteria (d) below e) Pupils with a sibling who will continue to be at the school in the next academic year i.e. not in Year 6. f) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to the Church of St Mary and St Beuno, Whitford. g) Pupils whose parents (see definition) are attached to another Anglican Church and for whom this is the nearest Aided School. h) Pupils whose parents are active members of a non-Anglican Christian denomination and for them this is the nearest Church School. i) Pupils whose parents are active members of another faith and also express a desire for a Church School education. j) Other pupils.

Exceptional medical circumstances (supported by medical evidence) may override the above. Please note, any child for whom the school is named in a statement of special educational needs will be admitted before the application of oversubscription criteria. For criteria e-h the Governors will seek information about the frequency of attendance at services and degree of involvement in the work of the church and seek confirmation of these details from the local priest or minister. Within each category those living nearest to the school are accorded higher priority. Catholic VA Primary Schools St Mary’s Catholic VA Primary School Oversubscription criteria Where the number of applications exceeds the number of places available the Governing body will apply the following over-subscription criteria in priority order. 1. Catholic “Looked After Children”.

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2. Baptised Catholic children within the parish which the school serves. Proof of birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of a Baptismal Certificate is required. 3. Baptised catholic children whose medical, educational or pastoral needs can only be met by this school. 4. “Looked After Children” not of the Catholic faith. 5. Children who have a brother or a sister at the school at the time of likely admission. 6. Children of other Christian denominations. It is necessary for such parents to have expressed a genuine desire for them to be educated in a Catholic school and to be fully supportive of our Catholic ethos. 7. Children of other faiths whose parents demonstrate a commitment to the ethos of the school. 8. Children for whom the LEA has specifically asked for a place at the school. In the event of over-subscription in the number of applications made under any of the categories above then the Admissions committee will offer places first to children living nearest to the school measured by the shortest walking distance using public highways. St Winefride’s Catholic VA Primary School Oversubscription Criteria There the number of applications exceeds the number of places available the Governing Body will apply the following over - subscription criteria in priority order. 1 Baptised Catholic Looked After children within the parishes which the school serves. Proof of birth date in the form of a birth certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of baptismal certificate required. 2. Baptised Catholic children within the parishes which the school serves. Proof of birth date in the form of a birth certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of baptismal certificate required. 3. Baptised Catholic children whose medical, educational or pastoral needs can only be met by this school. 4. Children who have a brother or a sister at the school at the time of likely admission. 5. Looked After Children. It would be necessary for such parents to have expressed a genuine desire for them to be educated in a Catholic school and to be fully supportive of its Catholic ethos. Such applications would need to be supported, in writing, by proof of birth date in the form of a birth certificate. 6. Children of other Christian Denominations It would be necessary for such parents to have expressed a genuine desire for them to be educated in a Catholic school and to be fully supportive of its Catholic ethos. Such applications would need to be supported, in writing, by proof of birth date in the form of a birth certificate and proof of baptism in the form of a baptismal certificate. 7. Children of other Faiths whose parents seek Catholic schooling. 8. Children for whom the LEA has specifically asked for a place at the school. In event of any over-subscription in the number of applications made under any of the categories above then the Admissions Committee will offer places first to children living nearest to the school by the shortest walking distance using public highways. Mold St David’s Catholic VA Primary School Oversubscription Criteria Where the number of applications exceeds the number of places available, the Governing Body will apply the following over-subscription criteria. 1.Baptised Catholic children who are in public care (looked-after children). Proof of a birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of a Baptismal Certificate are required.

2.Baptised Catholic children with the parishes which the school serves. Proof of a birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of a Baptismal Certificate are required. 3.Baptised Catholic children, whose medical, educational or pastoral needs can be appropriately met by this school. 4.Children who have a brother or sister at the school at the time of likely admission.

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5.Children in public care (looked-after children) who are not baptised Catholic. 6.Children of other Christian denominations. It would be necessary for such parents to have expressed a genuine desire for them to be educated in a Catholic school and to be fully supportive of its Catholic ethos. Such applications would need to be supported, in writing, by proof of a birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of a Baptismal Certificate. 7.Children of other faiths whose parents demonstrate a commitment to the ethos of the school. 8.Children for whom the LEA has specifically asked for a place in the school. In the event of any over-subscription in the number of applications made under any of the categories above then the Admissions Committee will offer place first to children living nearest to the school. Saltney, St Anthony’s Catholic VA Primary School Oversubscription Criteria If the number of applicants exceeds the Admission number, the Admissions Panel appointed by the Governing Body will apply the following oversubscription criteria in order of priority:

1. Baptised Catholic children who are looked after in public care. 2. Looked after children who are not of the Catholic faith. 3. Baptised Catholic children within the parishes of Broughton, Kinnerton and Saltney,

the parishes the school serves. 4. Baptised Catholic children whose pressing social and pastoral needs can be better

met by the school. For Catholic children in categories 1, 3 and 4, the Admissions Panel will need to see an original Birth Certificate and Baptismal Certificate, together with a written reference on the prescribed form from the Parish Priest. For children in category 4, the Admissions Panel will need to see supporting evidence from a doctor, a social worker or the LEA as to why the school is the most suitable for the child. 5. Children who have a brother or sister in school on the date of admission. 6. Children of other Christian denominations, whose parents have a genuine desire for

them to be educated in a Catholic school, and who are fully supportive of its Catholic ethos.

The Admissions Panel will need to see an original Birth Certificate and Baptismal Certificate, together with a written reference on the prescribed form from the Parish Priest or Minister of Religion 6. Children of other faiths whose parents demonstrate a commitment to the ethos of the

school. 7. Children whom the LEA has asked the school to place.

If there is oversubscription in any of the categories above, the Admissions Panel will offer places to children living nearest to the school as measured by the shortest distance between the front door to the home or flat/apartment complex and the main school gate, using public highways, and confirmed by the LEA’s Transportation Department. Shotton, Venerable Edward Morgan Catholic VA Primary School Oversubscription Criteria Where the number of applications exceeds the number of places available the Governing Body will apply the following over-subscription criteria in priority order.

1. Catholic ‘Looked After Children’ 2. Baptised Catholic children within the parishes which the school serves. Proof of birth date in

the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of a Baptismal Certificate is required.

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3. Baptised Catholic children whose medical, educational or pastoral needs can only be met by this school.

4. ‘Looked After Children’ not of the Catholic faith 5. Children who have a brother or a sister at the school at the time of likely admission 6. Children of other Christian Denominations. It is necessary for such parents to have expressed

a genuine desire for them to be educated in a Catholic school and to be fully supportive of our Catholic ethos.

7. Children of other faiths whose parents demonstrate a commitment to the ethos of the school 8. Children for whom the LEA has specifically asked for a place at the school.

In the event of any over-subscription in the number of applications made under any of the categories above then the Admissions Committee will offer places first to children living nearest to the school measured by the shortest walking distance using public highways. St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School Oversubscription Criteria 1. Catholic children who are in the care of the Local Authority (Looked After Children) or were previously in the care of the Local Authority (Previously Looked After Children) or provided with accommodation by them (eg. children with foster parents) (Section 22 of the Children Act 1989). 2. Catholic children who currently attend a designated Catholic feeder school 3. Catholic children who currently live in the parish area who are not currently attending the designated Catholic feeder school 4. Other Catholic children 5. Non-Catholic children who currently attend a designated Catholic feeder school (6. Children of other Christian denominations who seek a specifically Christian education 7. Children who have a sibling in the school at the time of admission 8. Children of other faiths whose parents seek a faith based education. 9. Other children whose parents seek a faith-based education for their child NB. In Categories 5 to 9 Looked After Children or Previously Looked After Children will be given the highest priority. Policies in relation to Education Benefits Parents may be entitled to financial support or allowances to help with their child’s schooling. The following paragraphs refer to the range of benefits available to parents who meet the criteria. Further details or application forms are available on www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools or from Business Support on 01352 704086/4087/4088. School Uniform Grants The LA administers the Welsh Government school uniform grant scheme for Year 7 pupils. To qualify for assistance the pupil must be 11 years of age on September 1st and be entering Year 7 in a secondary school, special school, special need resource base or pupil referral unit in Flintshire. The LA also operates a discretionary school uniform scheme for Year 8 onwards. Applicants must be in receipt of Income Support, Income Based Jobseekers Allowance, Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Seekers Act 1999, Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related), Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit) with an annual income of £16,190 or less (subject to review by the Welsh Government), Guarantee element of State pension Credit, Working Tax Credit “run-on”, Universal Credit. Application forms for claiming the school uniform grant are available on www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools, from schools or from Business Support on 1352 704086/4087/4088. Free School Meals and Free Milk

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The Authority will ensure:-

• The provision of a mid-day meal in all primary and special schools with a choice of course wherever possible.

• The provision of a mid-day meal in all secondary schools on a cafeteria basis with an

individual pricing system.

• Free School Meals will be provided for pupils whose parents receive Income Support, Income Based Jobseekers Allowance, Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Seekers Act 1999, Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related), Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit) with an annual income of £16,190 or less (subject to review by the Welsh Government), Guarantee element of State pension Credit, Working Tax Credit “run-on”, Universal Credit.

• Free school milk is provided for primary school children from the ages of 3 to 6 years old in

those schools which elect to join the Welsh Government funded schemes. Details of the scheme are available from the Headteacher of the school your child attends.

Details about the procedure for claiming free school meals are available on www.flintshire.gov.uk/ schools or from Business Support on 01352 704086/4087/4088. Enquiries will be dealt with in confidence. Facilities will be made available at all primary and secondary schools for children who wish to bring their own mid-day meal. Charging and Remissions Policy The full Charging and Remission Policy of your School Governing Body is available from the Headteacher of the school that your child attends. LA Policy on Remissions (Board and Lodgings) Pupils who are entitled to remission for one trip per academic year are those parents who are in receipt of Income Support, Income Based Jobseekers Allowance, Immigration Asylum Seekers Allowance, Employment Support Allowance (Income Related), Pension Credit, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit only with annual income of £16,190 or less. Those school journeys/visits that would qualify for full remission of board and lodgings are those which:-

• take place in school hours as defined;

• are part of the provisions of the National Curriculum or part of the duty to provide religious education;

• provide delivery of part of the Syllabus of a prescribed public examination; and must satisfy

the LA rules and regulations relating to school journeys. Parental Responsibility Following changes made to the legislation regarding children in the Children Act 1989, which became law in October 1991, schools need to know who has ‘parental responsibility’ for each child. This is to ensure that proper authority is given when the school needs parental permission. It will also make sure that persons with parental responsibility but with whom the child does not live, can be provided with school reports and be given an opportunity to take part in the child’s education.

• A mother automatically has parental responsibility for her child from birth. • In England and Wales, if the parents of a child are married to each other at the time of the

birth, or if they have jointly adopted a child, then they both have parental responsibility.

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Parents do not lose parental responsibility if they divorce, and this applies to both the resident and the non-resident parent. This is not automatically the case for unmarried parents.

• A father has parental responsibility only if he is married to the mother when the child is born or has acquired legal responsibility for his child through one of these three routes:

(from 1 December 2003) by jointly registering the birth of the child with the mother by a parental responsibility agreement with the mother by a parental responsibility order, made by a court

Living with the mother, even for a long time, does not give a father parental responsibility and if the parents are not married, parental responsibility does not always pass to the natural father if the mother dies. Parents are asked to co-operate with school staff by providing the school with details of the persons with parental responsibility for a pupil. Any changes in the arrangements for parental responsibility or in the day to day care of the child should be notified to the school. Any reference to parents within this booklet extends to include any individual who has care of the children. Transport Policy The LA is required to determine whether the provision of transport for pupils of statutory school age is necessary to facilitate the attendance at a designated school of the pupil concerned. If such transport is deemed necessary, then the transport must be provided free of charge. Statutory transport provision The LA provides free transport for children of compulsory school age (i.e. 5-16yrs) as follows:-

• where a child receiving primary education lives over two miles from the nearest appropriate school;

• where a child receiving secondary education lives over three miles from the nearest appropriate school.

The LA also provides free transport for pupils of statutory school age

• where the route to school is considered to be hazardous by the LA in consultation with the Environment Directorate;

• where transport to a named school is identified in a pupil’s Statement of Special Educational Needs. This would normally be on medical or educational grounds and would be deemed essential in the context of other criteria identified in this policy

• where a child requires transport on medical grounds and no suitable public transport exists; Other transport provision Free transport is also provided for pupils of statutory school age:

• where a child whose parents are in receipt of Income Support or Working Tax Credit, resides more than 2.5 miles from the nearest appropriate school;

• to the nearest Welsh medium school under the criteria identified above; • to the nearest voluntary aided school where the admission to the school is on denominational

grounds, subject to the distance criteria. Consultation with individual schools will take place to confirm the admission criteria under which pupils are admitted. Suitable evidence of adherence to the faith of the school such as a baptismal certificate or a letter from a priest may be requested.

Post-16 Transport Free transport will be provided for post 16 students living in Flintshire attending a first course of full time study at a school or college, subject to meeting the 3 mile distance criteria and providing the

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student is attending the nearest educational establishment offering the courses they wish to study. Free transport will be provided to specified sites only. These sites are:

• All Secondary School sites within Flintshire offering post-16 courses • Chester Catholic High School, Coleg Cambria sites at Connah’s Quay, Northop, Wrexham

and Llysfasi (for land based courses only), Prestatyn High School, Rhyl 6, St Brigid’s School, Ysgol Glan Clwyd, St. Asaph.

Transport will only be provided to an educational establishment which is not the nearest if, in the judgement of the LA, there is a considerable variation between the student’s course and the course on offer at the nearer institution. The courses should be at a higher level than the previous one: for example GCSE retakes would not normally qualify for assistance. Free transport after the age of 19 Free transport is provided to eligible students who have reached 16 years of age and have not yet reached the age of 19 on 1st September of the academic year. The free transport will be maintained for students for the length of their initial course even if they reach their 19th birthday before the end of that course. Concessionary fares The LA may provide concessionary transport, at a cost, where a pupil/student does not qualify on the above criteria but can be placed on an existing contract transport route which has empty seats. In these circumstances:

• a charge of £55 per term will apply. (This is subject to an annual review) • concessions may be withdrawn at short notice, with a pro-rata rebate, when seats become

unavailable. However, under the Transport Act 1985, concessionary fares cannot be made available where public service transport runs along a school route at convenient times for the start and finish of the school day. Application forms for concessionary seats can be obtained on www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools/ school transport or from the Access Officer, Tel No: 01352 704068. Pupils/students with learning difficulties/disabilities Specialised transport will be provided for pupils/students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities when specified in the statement of SEN. The LA will consider a pupil’s special educational needs or disability, irrespective of whether the pupil has a SEN statement, when deciding which is the nearest suitable school. The transport requirements will depend on individual circumstances and each application will be considered on its own merits. When other factors are identified in the statement, e.g. specialist provision, transport may be provided for young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities to travel beyond their nearest school/college. Young people who have severe medical conditions that seriously affect their mobility may be provided with free transport even though they do not meet the distance criteria. In all cases, the request must be supported by medical evidence. Travelling expenses for parents of pupils placed by a Statement of SEN in schools outside Flintshire Where such pupils are placed in boarding schools more than 100 miles from home, the LA will assist with travelling expenses for parents to attend the statutory Annual Review meeting, by the most cost effective means of:

• arranging transport, or

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• making a cash payment (currently 20p per mile), or • providing a ticket (or cash equivalent) for one or both parents on public transport

Such assistance will also be given when a pupil who normally travels in a vehicle provided for a group, is unable to travel at the same time as the group because of his/her ill-health. Medical certification will be required. The LA will not normally assist with travelling expenses for other functions or meetings. Definition of criteria Appropriate school criteria An appropriate school is deemed to be the nearest school which provides education for the relevant age and ability of a pupil, the nearest Welsh medium school or the nearest Voluntary school. The LA is not responsible for the cost of transport:

• where parental preference results in a pupil being placed in a school or facility other than the nearest appropriate school;

• to schools maintained by other Authorities where admission to those schools is a result of parental preference, unless that school is the nearest school. The Authority operates arrangements with neighbouring authorities for Flintshire pupils whose nearest appropriate school is outside the Flintshire County boundary;

• of pupils who reside outside Flintshire but who receive their education in Flintshire schools. Age Criteria The LA has no legal responsibility to those not deemed entitled to free transport.

• The LA does not provide transport for pupils attending nursery school or nursery classes at the age of three. Transport is provided from the commencement of the school year in which the child attains the age of five.

• The LA currently makes provision for pupils above compulsory school age, who qualify, to be transported free of charge to the nearest appropriate school or college as detailed in the Transport Policy.

Criteria for the Provision of Escorts An escort may be provided by the Authority for pupils with a Statement of Special Educational Need, who qualify for transport under the defined criteria. Provision of escorts will take place after consideration by relevant officers of the individual needs of the pupils or group of pupils and the nature of the transport available. Applying for School and College Transport If you consider, using the above criteria, your child may qualify for free school transport you will be required to complete an application form. An application needs to be made at entry to Reception, Secondary and Post-16 and is not retrospective. You will also be required to re-apply should any of your circumstances alter during the period your children attend school, or if your child’s course alters. Application forms are available on www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools/schooltransport or from the Access Officer, County Hall, Mold, Flintshire. CH7 6ND (Tel: 01352 704068/704073). Applications for transport to colleges should be directed to the college concerned (details below). Applications can be made at any time of year although students are recommended to apply at the end of the summer term prior to commencing courses in September.

Mode of Transport In determining the mode of transport required, the following principles will apply:

• the need for specialist transport;

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• the Additional Needs of a pupil as defined in a pupil’s statement. In all cases, the efficient use of resources will dictate the mode of transport (subject to the above conditions). Transport may be provided by means of school contract transport services or existing public transport services which, together with the type of transport (bus, minibus, train, taxi, etc.) will be dictated by cost effectiveness. In some cases, one contract bus may transport different pupils to more than one school site. In exceptional circumstances, a cash payment (currently 20p per mile) may be available for transporting pupils who meet all the criteria, if deemed by the LA to be more cost effective. Collection and Return Transport will normally be to and from bus stops or pick-up points for groups of pupils. It will only be provided from door-to-door in exceptional circumstances. The maximum distance a pupil is expected to walk to and from pick-up point will depend upon, for example, the age of the child, their individual needs and the nature of the route they are expected to walk. Travel Behaviour Code The Welsh Assembly Government has issued a Travel Behaviour Code which is compulsory for all learners up to the age of 19. It applies to all modes of travel to and from education institutions. Learners must comply with the Code whilst travelling to and from their place of learning. Under the Code, travel arrangements may be withdrawn from learners whose behaviour during the journey to or from school or college is not of an acceptable standard. The driver will, in accordance with the agreed procedure, report any incidents of misbehaviour to the LA and Headteacher of the school concerned. Any such incidents will be investigated and appropriate action taken, if necessary, including suspension from transport. Smoking on Buses Smoking is not permitted on any vehicle contracted to the Council for the conveyance of school pupils to and from school. Any pupils found smoking on school or college buses will be reported for disciplinary action to be considered. Parents have responsibility for:

• getting their child to and from school where they do not qualify for free school transport; • applying for free transport where their child qualifies; • informing the LA and the school of changed circumstances which may affect transport: • ensuring that their child is ready and waiting for transport at the appropriate time and place. It

is the parent’s responsibility to accompany the child to and from the vehicle; • ensuring that their child’s behaviour while using school transport is acceptable.

General Transport Enquiries School Transport Environment Directorate Flintshire County Council County Hall Mold Flintshire CH7 6ND Tel: 01352 704532 Website: www.flintshire.gov.uk/schools/schooltransport

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Colleges Coleg Cambria (Connah’s Quay) Coleg Llandrillo Kelsterton Road Transport Officer Connah’s Quay Llandudno Road Deeside Rhos on Sea Flintshire LL28 4HZ CH5 4BR Tel: 01492 546666 Tel: 01244 831531 Coleg Cambria (Yale) Grove Park Road Wrexham LL12 7AB Tel: 01978 311794 General Information for Parents The National Curriculum During primary education and for the first years of secondary education (Years 7, 8 and 9) all schools offer a broad and balanced programme which includes all National Curriculum subjects. The aim is to ensure a sound platform of basic skills, knowledge and understanding and to promote the personal development of all pupils. All Year 10 and 11 pupils continue to study the National Curriculum subjects but with some scope for options to suit pupils’ individual talents and interests. Parents are fully consulted about these options and about continuing education, training and job opportunities. A careers adviser is attached to each school and counselling and advice is, therefore, readily available. Flintshire schools seek to develop their pupils academically, personally and socially. Each school has a pastoral structure which provides for their care and welfare. At the end of the last stage of compulsory education all schools provide opportunities for pupils to take public examinations. Most pupils enter for the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). In addition, some students take vocational courses. School Governors Each school has a Governing Body which plays an important part in the life of the school. It has a general responsibility for the conduct of the school and a range of responsibilities including the school’s finances and the appointment of staff. Governing Bodies are made up of local people and will include parents, persons appointed by the local education authority, teachers, staff, the headteacher and may include representatives of the local business community and representatives of the church. The number of members will depend upon the size of the school. Information about school governors is available on www.governorswales.org.uk. Annual Parents Meeting Governing Bodies are required by law to prepare a report which summarises the actions taken by them in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities during the previous year. The report is presented to parents at the Annual Parents Meeting where an opportunity is afforded to them to discuss with the Governors the content of the report and to ask any questions concerning the running of the school. The meeting may make formal resolutions for consideration by the Governing Body where 20% of the number of pupils at the school are represented by parents present. Equal opportunities

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The LA believes that equality lies at the heart of quality education and that all individuals should have an equal right to development and achieve their full potential through our education system. The Authority will work in partnership with all groups who contribute to the spectrum of education: pupils, headteachers and staff, governors, parents and the wider community. Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for all. The LA will work against all forms of discrimination which affect a child’s life chances and it intends to ensure that education truly meets the needs of all pupils and students irrespective of their colour, culture, religion, race, ability, sexual orientation, language, nationality, gender or ethnicity. Discipline and Exclusion Schools are aware that they share with parents the responsibility for the behaviour of children in their care. Parents are fully involved when behaviour becomes a matter of concern. There is no corporal punishment. In exceptional cases, headteachers may exclude pupils from school, either for a fixed period or permanently. Parents have the right to make representations about an exclusion to the school’s Governing Body. In the event of permanent exclusion, parents have formal rights of appeal. Parents requiring further information should seek advice from their child’s school or the Principal Learning Advisor, Inclusion at County Hall (01352 704056). Complaints Procedures The responsibility for dealing with general complaints lies with individual schools and it is hoped that any concerns which parents have will be resolved informally in discussion with the Headteacher. Any complaint should be raised with the school in the first instance and if necessary be referred to the headteacher. If the complaint remains unresolved then the matter should be referred to the Chair of the Governing Body in writing. Complaints procedures are available from the school. Where appropriate the complainant may make representation before an Appeals Committee. In relation to the Voluntary Controlled and Voluntary Aided Schools a representative of the relevant Diocesan Body will be invited to be present in accordance with the established procedures when a complaint is being considered. Should the complaint involve religious matters then the above procedure would be followed but the Appeals Committee would also include Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education and for Voluntary Controlled Primary Schools the Diocesan Director of Education would be invited as an observer. Home Tuition Home tuition is provided, in exceptional circumstances, for some children, such as those who are anticipating a lengthy period at home recovering after a stay in hospital, or who have medical problems which are likely to prevent their attendance at school. If home tuition is felt to be necessary, a request will be sent to the Director of Lifelong Learning, either by the child’s Headteacher or the local Inclusion Welfare Officer. This request will be considered in line with current policy above. School leaving date This is the last Friday in June in the school year in which a child reaches the age of 16. Until that date:

• Parents must ensure their child’s participation in education at school; • Employers may not employ a child full-time; • Training providers may not provide full-time Government sponsored training.

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If you require any further information in relation to any of the Authority’s schools or policies, please contact the Headteacher of the school concerned, or Diocesan Body or Director of Lifelong Learning. Family holidays term time There is no automatic right to withdraw pupils from school for a holiday and, in law, parents must request permission from the headteacher in advance. Please contact the school to obtain a holiday form before booking holidays, as permission is not automatic.