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St Gabriel’s Primary

School Handbook Updated August 2015

St Gabriel’s School / Handbook

Welcome to St Gabriel’s

Welcome to St. Gabriel’s Primary School. We have prepared this handbook to give you some information you may need when your child starts here in St.Gabriel’s. We hope it will be useful to answer any questions you may have at this time in your child’s life.

We recognise that we have a tremendous responsibility in the education of children and acknowledge that the greatest success comes in the partnerships we form with our parents and carers.

We look forward to many happy and rewarding years ahead and welcome any contributions you may feel you have to offer.

Should you have any questions or require further help please do not hesitate to contact me.

Anne TorleyHead Teacher


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THE SCHOOL DAY

MONDAY-THURSDAY

Primary 1 and 28.45 to 10.30am - morning break - 10.45am - 12.00 noon12.00 to 1.00pm - lunch1.00 to 2.55pm close

Primary 3 to 78.45 to 10.30am - morning break - 10.45am - 12.30pm12.30 to 1.15pm - lunch1.15 to 3.15pm close

FRIDAYS ONLYPrimary 1 and 2

8.45 to 10.30am - morning break - 10.45 - 11.50am Primary 3 to 7

8.45 to 10.30am - morning break - 10.45 - 12.00 noon

NURSERY HOURSMORNING GROUPMonday to Thursday 8.32am to 12.30pm

AFTERNOON GROUPMonday-Thursday 1.15pm to 4.15pmFridays 8.32am to 12.20pm

Doors open for collection;MORNING – 11.45am to 12 noon St Gabriel’s School / Handbook

AFTERNOON – 2.55 to 3.15pm and 4 to 4.15pm

GENERAL INFORMATION

St Gabriel’s RC Primary School,South Grange Avenue, Prestonpans EH32 9LH Telephone 01875 811062Fax 01875 813604Email [email protected] Website http://edubuzz.org/blogs/stgabriels/

School Roll: 2015-16:198 in Primary 1-7Nursery Roll: Capacity for 50 children in morning nursery and 50 children in afternoon nursery.

Head Teacher: Mrs Anne TorleyDepute Head Teacher: Mrs. Susan AdamsPrincipal Teacher: Mr Alex Buchanan

Should you wish to see the Head Teacher it is advisable to telephone Miss Wendy Thomson (Business Support Administrator) first to make an appointment.

St Gabriel’s is a Roman Catholic; co-educational primary school covering all stages from Primary 1 to Primary 7. The school has spacious accommodation including 7 classrooms, a hall, stage, dining hall and further flexible teaching rooms. The school benefits from 3 tarmac playgrounds and a grass play area. In May 2006 we opened our first Nursery class (see additional Nursery Handbook). Children of other denominations are most welcome and we will continue to do our best to accommodate these requests. This year the classes are made up as follows:

P1P2P3 P4P5P6P7


mailto:[email protected]

STAFF INFORMATION

Head Teacher Mrs Anne TorleyDepute Head Teacher Mrs Susan AdamsPrincipal Teacher Mr Alex Buchanan

Business SupportAdministrator Ms Wendy Thomson

Auxiliary Mrs Ann Clark

Janitor Mr Kenneth McCrorie

Classroom Mrs Julia Maguire Assistants Mrs Jennifer Hall

Mrs Jo Mason

Visiting Specialists P.E. – Eilidh GordonMusic - Elaine RobertsViolin – Carolyn WilsonSports - Angie DavieClarinet – Alison LoneskieBrass – Alex KnoxDrums - Simon GrantChanter - Lee Moore

These subjects are blocked – please see classroom timetable

Support For Learning Teacher Mrs Marion Murray Support For Learning Assistant Mrs Tricia Kenderdine

Mrs Blythe PeartMrs Susan Reay

There are 7 classes in school and a nurseryNursery Teachers Mrs Freer, Miss West and Mrs MauleNursery Nurse Mrs Richardson, Mrs Tickell, Ms Conway and Ms CummingPrimary 1 Miss StewartPrimary 2 Miss NewellPrimary 3 Miss McBirnie Primary 4 Mr BuchananPrimary 5 Miss BrownPrimary 6 Miss BarclayPrimary 7 Miss LaidlawSt Gabriel’s School / Handbook

St Gabriel’s is a Roman Catholic Primary serving the Prestonpans cluster.We are committed to working together within an atmosphere of confidence and trusting each other.

CHARTER for CATHOLIC SCHOOLS in SCOTLAND

The mission of the Catholic school is to develop as a community of faith and learning, providing the highest quality of education, and offering formation through the promotion of Gospel values, through celebration and worship, and through service to the common good.All Catholic schools in Scotland, in honouring Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth and the Life, will feature the following characteristics:

A commitment to the integrated education and formation of the whole person, in close partnership with parents as the first educators of their children;

An inclusive ethos which aims to honour the life, dignity and voice of each person, made in the image of God;

A commitment to the search for wisdom in life and to the pursuit of excellence, through the development of each person’s unique God-given talents;

A commitment to the spiritual formation of the school community, through the shared experience of prayer and liturgy, and in partnership with local parishes;

The provision of religious education programmes which will enable young people to develop their understanding of Gospel values and of how to apply them to life;

A commitment to uphold the moral teaching, faith tradition and sacramental life of the Catholic Church;

A commitment to communicate Catholic social teaching and thereby to promote social justice and opportunity for all;

A commitment to ecumenical action and the unity of Christians; The promotion of respect for different beliefs and cultures and for inter-faith dialogue; A commitment to support the continuing professional and spiritual development of staff

Published by the Scottish Catholic Education Service on behalf of the Bishops’Conference of Scotland


Our child-friendly version of Catholic Charter

Along with parents and carers, we are committed to developing each and every person in all areas of their life and learning.

In an environment where everyone is included, we aim to listen to and value each person, made in the image of God.

We are committed to the search for wisdom; helping each child to explore their God-given talents so that they can be the best they can be. Working with our local church and parish, we aim to provide the children with shared faith experiences and teachings to guide them on their spiritual journey.

We aim to provide a religious education that will help the children to understand their faith and to live by these teachings.

We are committed to following and standing up for the morals, faith traditions and Sacraments of the Catholic Church.

We are committed to sharing Church teachings on relationships, fairness and opportunities for everyone.

We are committed to value and encourage positive relationships and partnerships with other Christian Churches.

We encourage the children to respect different beliefs and cultures and to experience inter-faith discussion.

As a staff we will continue to learn and grow in our faith.


COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS

In September of each year the school holds a curriculum evening so that teachers can share their plans for the session ahead with parents and homework is explained at this point. Please note this is not an opportunity for individual discussion about your child. Of course, if you are concerned about your child at any time, please do not hesitate to contact the head teacher who will investigate the area of concern and provide an opportunity for you to discuss progress with the class teacher.

At least once per year, parents will be invited to a class assembly led by pupils on a particular topic or theme.

Individual Parents’ consultation evenings are held twice yearly usually around October and April, to discuss their child’s progress.

In addition a comprehensive style of written report is issued to Parents in May/June. It gives parents a clear indication of a child’s effort and level of support required in all curriculum areas. Parents are encouraged to comment on reports

Children are given also the opportunity to review their learning through the personal learning planning process. We hope to invite parents in to look at their child’s work on an informal basis at least once per year.

Our school website and regular newsletters also provide parents with regular updates. We have recently also started a text system which allows the school to contact all parents swiftly and easily for short reminders/updates or emergency closures of school.

ABSENCE FROM SCHOOLRegular attendance is vitally important to your child’s education. Please ensure that your child arrives on time for the start of the school day at 8.45am. If he/she is unable to attend for any reason, please telephone the school, by 9.15am, in the first instance to inform us and on your child’s return send a note to your child’s class teacher. Our school policy is to call Parents who have not informed us of any absence and if we are unable to contact you, we then inform the Integration Team as per East Lothian Policy. The Attendance Officer will be visiting me here in the school on a monthly basis and we will be monitoring late coming and attendance.

Sickness And DiarrhoeaVomiting and diarrhoea. Children with these conditions should be kept off school. They can return 48 hours after their symptoms disappear.

Holidays In Term TimeRequests for holidays during term time should be put in writing to the head teacher. Absence has a clear impact on progress in school work. A recent directive from the Scottish Executive states that permission for family holidays in term time can only be granted in exceptional circumstances. Should it be absolutely necessary for holidays to be taken in term time, parents are asked not to request homework.


PUNCTUALITY

We expect our pupils to arrive in school ready for 8.45am start. It is a legal requirement that all pupils attend school for 22.5hrs for P1&2 and 25hrs for P3-7. All lateness is recorded and we ask our parents to support us in ensuring that full attendance is met. However, persistent lateness would also be referred to the Family Support Worker (Attendance) It is important that a child realises that good timekeeping is a socially expected life skill. Lateness disrupts the smooth running of the classes and we ask that parents do not accompany children into cloakroom areas.

Please note children are still under parental responsibility travelling between home and school and waiting in the playground, to ensure their safety, well-being and positive behaviour. For children travelling to school it is also necessary, particularly in the case of road crossing patrols. A late child is placed in a dangerous situation if they cross the road unsupervised.

Children should not arrive at school before 8.35am particularly in inclement weather. In severe weather only Mrs Torley or Mrs Adams will make the decision to allow children entry to the building and supervise them. Parents are reminded that children should be dressed appropriately for the weather taking account of waterproof clothing, sun hats etc.

OCCASIONAL AND EMERGENCY ARRANGEMENTS

Planned ClosuresYou will be notified in advance by letter (pupil post) of holidays or early closures.

Unplanned Closures In emergencies, such as inadequate heating or severe weather conditions, an announcement will be made prior to school starting on local radio (Forth am), ELC website and St Gabriel’s RC Primary School Website, informing parents if school is to be closed. We would advise parents to be aware of this particularly in winter months. Should school have to close in an emergency parents/emergency contacts will be phoned / text so that arrangements can be made for the collection of pupils or instructions as to where parents would wish their child to be sent. Please be assured no child will ever be dismissed from school without having made this contact and school staff will ensure their safety and well-being. Again we would remind parents of the importance of up to date contact telephone numbers.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

Most complaints are resolved at school level.If you have cause for concern, the first person to approach will normally be the Head Teacher. If Parents remain dissatisfied then the procedures contained within “How to make a comment, compliment or complaint about a Council Service” should be followed. Further information can be obtained at:http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/downloads/file/2421/feedback_leaflet


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/downloads/file/2421/feedback_leaflet

ENROLMENT

Other than exceptional circumstances the child’s age dictates which class he/she will be in.The practice for enrolling a district pupil to Primary 1 at St Gabriel’s is to telephone or call in to the school bringing the child’s Birth certificate (and Baptismal certificate ) in November prior to the session the child will start school. We aim to accommodate requests to view the school. In the pre-school year our Early Years Team begin our programme for transition from nursery to P1. In May a series of information meetings are arranged for the parents of the incoming P1 children. If the dates are not suitable to parents the school can make individual arrangements. Parents and children are also invited into school to meet with the teacher and explore the classroom area. We visit children in their nursery environment and gather as much information to ensure an effective transition from Nursery to Primary 1.

Forms for requesting a non-district place can be collected from our school office to be sent to the local authority for consideration. Parents will then receive written information and advice from the local authority.

TRANSFER FROM PRIMARY TO SECONDARY/PUPIL PLACEMENT

Normally children attend the catchment area school known as the district school. If you wish your child to attend non- district secondary school information will be sent to your home address when your child is in P7. It should be noted that attendance at an associated primary does not mean transfer to the attached secondary school.

There is a very effective transition programme and on-going liaison between St Gabriel’s and Preston Lodge High School during the last year in primary. There are many arranged visits throughout the final year to Preston Lodge where all relevant information is shared to ensure a smooth transition to secondary.

Under the Parents’ Charter parents now have a greater choice about where to have their child educated. Children attending St Gabriel’s are in the Preston Lodge High School catchment. Parents may choose to send their child to St David’s RC High School, Dalkeith or Holyrood High School (if there are places available) Should you decide to send your child to a high school outwith the catchment area you must apply to them directly by December of the previous year.

There is on-going liaison between P7 and the High Schools during their last year in primary and the opportunity to visit will be presented to pupils.

Please contact us if you require any further information about the schools.Preston Lodge High School St. David’s RC High SchoolPark View Cousland Road, Prestonpans DalkeithEast Lothian. EH32 9QJ Midlothian EH22 2PSTel: 01875 811170 Tel: 0131 654 4702


STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOUR

Rationale: At St Gabriel's Primary School we aim to work in partnership with the whole school community to set high standards of behaviour where children are enabled to develop responsibility for managing their own behaviour within a positive, safe and supportive environment. We will endeavour to create an ethos where the values of the Rights Respecting School are clearly evidenced and where children and teachers enjoy the right to learn and teach.Our relationships in school are based on our common shared values of Christian love, tolerance, respect and forgiveness and of course adhere to ELC Policy statement of ‘unconditional positive regard.’ We work closely with our Parish of St Gabriel’s, our local community to promote an ethos which fits the values of our Catholic school and a Rights Respecting School.

Aims: To promote a positive, caring, school ethos through the use of positive behaviour strategies

and celebrations of success where all children are valued equally as individuals. To help children to develop a range of skills and strategies that equip them to manage

themselves positively, make informed choices and become good citizens of the future. To make the children aware of their rights and responsibilities and on how these will impact

on the way they behave. To ensure that this policy is adapted suitably to meet the needs of the children with additional

support needs. To build self-esteem and to create opportunities to develop both independent and team

working skills. To work with parents to develop and maintain a high standard of behaviour in school and in

the wider school community. Pupils, parents and staff will share a consistent approach to behaviour management that is

clearly outlined, regularly reviewed and understood by all.

The school operates an Assertive Discipline approach. Each pupil will bring home a Colour Chart at the end of each week to share with parents the good news of their very good behaviour in school. Of course this communication with parents also alerts you to any problem This requires a great deal of re-enforcement, involving the use of frequent ‘praise’ ‘rewards’ and ‘consequences’ for pupils. We would encourage you as parents to applaud any certificates or special mentions that your child might bring home, as they will be hard earned. We would also expect you to support any consequences that the pupils have acquired as this means they have defaulted in some way from school rules.

Should a pupil fail to comply with the expectations listed above he or the class teacher will initially redirect this behaviour using our school positive behaviour policy. Failure to conform will result in the pupil being given an appropriate exercise to remind them of expected positive behaviour. Full parental support and co-operation in ensuring that punishment exercises are completed is essential and greatly appreciated by the school in this very important area. Should the matter fail to be resolved the following measures could be imposed:

Supervised isolation outwith the classroomWithdrawal of privileges, e.g. footballDetention during morning break or lunchtime.

In some circumstances at the Head Teacher’s discretion and in consultation with parents, a detention after school may also be imposed. To ensure road safety, parents will be informed St Gabriel’s School / Handbook

directly by telephone and if necessary, beforehand by letter with the child or by letter posted from the school.

I am pleased to say that pupils from St Gabriel’s have often been complimented and my concern as Head Teacher is to ensure our high standards are maintained and even improved on in the coming years.

We have a very positive partnership with parents, which we highly value. Any parent wishing to visit the school will be most welcome. In order to facilitate this, a telephone call to Mrs Weir to arrange an appointment with myself would be much appreciated.

SCHOOL RULES

Our pupils are expected to be well mannered, hardworking and honest. We rely on the common sense of pupils and parents in order to provide an environment and atmosphere appropriate for learning and working together. St Gabriel’s expectations are not extraordinary.

We celebrate pupils’ achievements by presenting certificates at assembly.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY


Respect for all people

and property

Punctuality

Completion of homework

Proper use of school premises

At St Gabriel’s we endorse the antibullying and anti -racist policy of East Lothian Council. In tackling bullying and racism effectively, all members of St Gabriel’s Primary School community; staff, pupils and parents follow the guidance given in St. Gabriel’s Primary Policy for Positive Behaviour.We do:-• take complaints and concerns seriously• investigate immediately when a complaint is received from a pupil or a parent

In St Gabriel’s Primary we strive to ensure that all people are welcome and are treated with equal value.

We have a well-established Pupils’ Council. A designated member of staff, Mrs S Adams, has been appointed as Anti-Bullying Co-ordinator and would investigate all issues and report to Mrs Torley. Any incident deemed to be bullying would be recorded and parents would be informed. We also have two Junior Smile Squad Monitors in place. There is also a Worry Box where children can anonymously put their concerns. The two Smile Squad officers also offer peer support opportunities. Parents are urged to support the school by informing us immediately of any difficulties in school and by reinforcing our school rule of ‘Hands, feet and objects to yourself’. We hope all of these measures will counter any bullying, which may occur. Should parents have any concerns please contact the school to arrange to speak to either the class teacher, in the first instance, or Mrs Torley.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

The Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006 encourages and support more parents/Carers to become involved in their children’s education.

The main aims of the Act are to: Help parents/Carers become more involved with their child’s education and learning Welcome parents/Carers as active participants in the life of the school Provide easier ways for parents/Carers to express their views and wishes

To help achieve these aims, all parents/carers will automatically be members of the Parent Forum at their child’s school and will be entitled to have their views represented to the school, authority and others, through a representative Parent Council for this school. As a member of the Parent Forum, parents/carer will have a say in selecting the Parent Council (the representative body) to work on behalf of all parents at the school.

The role of the Parent Council is to: Support the school in its work with pupils Represent the views of all parents/carers Encourage the links between the school, parents/carers, provisers of, nursery education

and the community Consult with and report back to the Parent Forum.

For more information on the Parental Involvement Act or to find out about parents as partners in their children’s learning please contact the school or Val McIntyre at the Department of Education & Children’s Services on 01620 827228 or [email protected] or visit the



Parentzone website on www.parentzonescotland.gov.uk or East Lothian Council website on www.eastlothian.gov.uk.

St. Gabriel’s Parent Council members are:Chairperson - Mr Eddie White Vice Chair - Mr Stefano Lucernoni

Treasurer - Mrs Trudie McCabe

Church Representative

- Fr Jim

Teacher Representative - Mrs Sue Adams Co-opted Member

- Mrs Angela Carroll

Clerk to the Council - Ms Gillian Tracey Advisor to the Council

- Mrs Anne Torley

Mr Peter Smith - - Mr David SmithMr Mark Bemrose - - Mrs Mandy MansonMrs Natalie Lees - - Ms Nicola Armstrong

St. Gabriel’s Parent Council meets regularly in school and members are available to take forward ideas, suggestions etc of a general nature.

The Council also incorporates sub groups working on specific areas. Any parent wishing to help particularly in fund raising activities should contact Mr Eddie White through the school office.

THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/

http://www.parentzonescotland.gov.uk/

Curriculum for Excellence

Bringing learning to life and life to learning

Curriculum for Excellence is now being introduced across Scotland for all 3-18 year olds – wherever they learn. It aims to raise standards, prepare our children for a future they do not yet know and equip them for jobs of tomorrow in a fast changing world.

Curriculum for Excellence enables professionals to teach subjects creatively, to work together across the school and with other schools, to share best practice and explore learning together. Glow, Scotland’s unique, world-leading, online network supports learners and teachers in this and plans are already in place for parents across the country to have access to Glow.

Teachers and practitioners will share information to plan a child’s ‘learning journey’ from 3-18, helping their progression from nursery to primary, primary to secondary and beyond, ensuring the change is smooth. They’ll ensure children continue to work at a pace they can cope with and with challenge they can thrive on.

Curriculum for Excellence balances the importance of knowledge and skills.

Every child is entitled to a broad and deep general education, whatever their level and ability. Every single teacher and practitioner will be responsible for literacy and numeracy – the language and numbers skills that unlock other subjects and are vital to everyday life.

It develops skills for learning, life and work to help young people go on to further study, secure work and navigate life. It brings real life into the classroom, making learning relevant and helps young people apply lessons to their life beyond the classroom. It links knowledge in one subject area to another helping children understand the world and make connections. It develops skills so that children can think for themselves, make sound judgements, challenge, enquire and find solutions.

There will be new ways of assessing progress and ensuring children achieve their potential. There will be new qualifications for literacy and numeracy and from 2012/13, new National 4 and 5 qualifications from 2013/14. Our well regarded Access, Highers and Advanced Highers will be updated to take account of and support the new approaches to learning and teaching.

There’s personal support to help young people fulfil their potential and make the most of their opportunities with additional support wherever that’s needed. There will be a new emphasis by all staff on looking after our children’s health and wellbeing – to ensure that the school is a place where children feel safe and secure.

Ultimately, Curriculum for Excellence aims is to improve our children’s life chances, to nurture successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors, and responsible citizens, building on Scotland’s reputation for great education.


The curriculum is divided into eight areas:

LANGUAGEReading, Writing, Listening & Talking, Modern Languages

MATHEMATICSProblem Solving, Number Work, Measurement,

Money, Shape and Information Handling

SOCIAL STUDIESPeoples in Place, Past and Environment

SCIENCESScience

TECHNOLOGIESDeveloping technological skills including ICT

EXPRESSIVE ARTSDesign & Art, Drama, Music and Dance

HEALTH & WELLBEINGHealth Education, Physical Education

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – CATHOLIC SCHOOLSChristianity, Other


LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

AIM

To develop each child’s verbal and written language skills to his/her potential through a high quality continuous and progressive language programme.

METHODOLOGY

1. Listening Pupils will learn to listen individually and in groups in a variety of contexts and for a variety of purposes.

2. Talking Pupils will learn individually and in groups to convey information about experiences, opinions, feelings and texts.

3. Reading Pupils will learn to read aloud, for enjoyment and for informationfrom a variety of texts. Early Years classes will begin to read using the structured Achievement in Literacy (phonics programme) in a language rich environment. Children are taught early reading and writing skills using magnetic letters and whiteboards in a multi sensory approach. Children will progress to our active literacy reading resources or Oxford reading Tree. From P3-P7, or when appropriate, children will begin to read novels, supported by their peer group and the class teacher. Large group and/or whole class guided teaching of reading skills such as reading for comprehension, inference, skimming and scanning and identifying the writer’s craft will also take place. The link between reading for a purpose and writing for a purpose and particular audience will be taught at all stages.In P6 and P7 the children will use accelerated reading to increase attainment.

4. Writing Pupils will learn to write functionally, personally and imaginatively for a variety of audiences. Pupils will develop punctuation and structure, spelling and vocabulary, handwriting, presentation, grammar and acquire knowledge of language. We try to broaden children’s experience when possible by having visiting writers and story tellers, writing competitions and writing for a real purpose.The children are now using Big Writing resource which focuses on

The importance of talk Accurate basic skills-spelling, punctuation, grammar, and

handwriting. Regular and meaningful assessment and target setting. High expectations for all pupils Giving writing a purpose and making it fun!


5. ICT As befits a school for the 21st century the use of the World Wide Webis encouraged as a source of reading for information. While basic skills are taught, pupils are also expected to use word processing programmes to write and present specific pieces of work appropriate to their age and stage. This is an area, which can greatly support children with more serious difficulties in language work whilst still including them in class lessons.

RESOURCESActive Literacy Resource and reading books/Accelerated reading/Oxford Reading Tree, Oxford Literacy Web/A selection of ‘big books’. Whiteboards and magnetic letters are supplied. Nelson’s Spelling, Comprehension, Handwriting & Grammar Scheme S.R.A. Laboratories. The Case for Writing and North Lanarkshire Developing Writing Scheme, Pelican Writing Big Writing and Big Talk Approach Oxford Literacy Satellite are also used. Developing Comprehension and Comprehension Success provide further reading materials. In P6 and P7 BBC Spellits is used to develop spelling, meanings and vocabulary.

Complementing this are tape recorders, listening centres, headphone sets, computers, dictionaries, thesauruses, and factual/fictional books in class. We also have a school library and good links with the local library and the East Lothian based schools library service.

MODERN LANGUAGES

AIMS

To offer our P6 and P7 children an introduction to a foreign language French which will enable them to be interested in and develop skills in languages other than English.

To develop a usage of common phrases. To be able to read, say and write simple personal details in French. To develop an insight into French culture.

Classroom activities include songs, games, story telling, role-play as well as more formal aspects of our study programme. Topics studies include alphabet, basic greetings, numbers, days/months, time, personal and family details, classroom objects, weather, parts of the body, colours, and seasonal songs.

We hope that the introduction of Primary French will increase the motivation of our pupils proceeding to study French or Italian at Secondary School.

On a bi-annual basis P6 and P7 children will get the opportunity to go to Barga and visit our twinned school, Filecchio Primary.


MATHEMATICS

AIMS

To develop mathematical skills for life including number, money, measurement, shape position and movement, problem solving and enquiry and information handling

To develop confident use of number, both mentally and written.

METHODOLOGY

Children are taught maths in a variety of direct interactive ways in groups, whole class and if appropriate individually. There is a strong emphasis on mental maths and teachers model strategies for children to use. Much maths work is oral, exploring children’s workings, wrong answers and thinking. In the early years, children’s mathematical experiences are structured to facilitate Active Learning. The use of ICT (laptop computers) and visual aids such as diagrams, and materials such as fraction boards, clocks, scales etc continues to P7 to help all types of learners.

RESOURCES

All classes have access to various resources including the new Interactive Scottish Heinemann Maths Resource which gives teachers a wealth of resources and an excellent planning toolScootish Heinemann Maths.with accompanying supporting materials, Peter Patilla Mental Maths, Border TENS and TJ Support Materials to support the teaching of numeracy and maths skills.

Classes are also equipped with counters, cubes, unit, tens, hundreds, thousands, materials, 2D and 3D shapes, 100 squares, flashcards, number fans, place value sliders, rulers, pairs of compasses, angle measurers, clocks, timers, trundle wheels, metre sticks etc.


SOCIAL STUDIES

Through Social Studies, children develop their understanding of the world by learning about other people and their values, in different times, places and circumstances; they also develop their understanding of the environment and how it has been shaped.The social studies experiences and outcomes have been structured under the three main organisers:

People, past events and societies People, place and environment People in society, economy and business

Study of these organisers is mainly project (or topic/or theme) based and involves our pupils in first hand observation and investigation of their surroundings at the appropriate level, whenever possible. Learning is re-enforced through the use of books, films, slides and discussion.

From time to time pupils make visits to certain establishments as part of their project work and all educational excursions are designed and planned in accordance with East Lothian Council’s comprehensive guidelines. Parents are always notified of this in writing and your written permission will be sought, if the visit is out of the village and/or involving transport.

SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY

Through learning in the sciences the children develop their interest in, and understanding of, the living, material and physical world. They engage in a wide range of collaborative investigative tasks, which allows them to develop important skills to become creative, inventive and enterprising adults.Enterprise in Education promotes lifelong skills of planning, working as a group, organising and carrying out activities such as make and sell or campaigns. Children learn about the world of work. We encourage the children to adopt a ‘can do’ attitude, which will foster healthy self-esteem and valuable life skills. We have a programme of activities but this also changes in response to ideas from the children..


INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Currently we have 16 Laptop Computers and 4 Alphasmarts. Each classroom is fitted with a data projector and interactive whiteboard. ICT is also used in whole school assemblies and is a very powerful tool for teaching, meeting the needs of all learners. Children have access to the internet in all classrooms and the school now has its own server which will allow children to access their work from any computer at any point in the school. Children are taught basic word processing skills and drawing in the early years classes progressing to use of the Internet to capture, copy and paste information, spread-sheets and databases in the upper school. Through the use of interactive computer software children also use computers to access all areas of the curriculum in maths, language and many areas of the curriculum. The use of ICT is encouraged for research particularly in Social Subjects.

EXPRESSIVE ARTS

AIMTo promote distinctive ways of understanding self, developing individual abilities, and finding personal satisfaction and enjoyment.

METHODOLOGYArt & Design using a range of materials, techniques and processes we wish the pupils to

explore and express their own view of the world through drawing, painting, collage and modelling. Children are also taught to observe carefully and appreciate a variety of art works.

Drama by investigating and experimenting with roles and relationships through movement, mime and language to stimulate imagination and understanding and enhance the quality of pupil’s experiences. St.Gabriel’s has a strong tradition of encouraging all children to perform in concerts, plays and assemblies.


Music through investigating and exploring sound, pupils will learn to understand and apply the skills and techniques involved in using the voice and using instruments. Children are encouraged to present their musical work both formally at public appearances and informally to their peers developing confidence and fluency. We are fortunate to have a specialist music teacher one day per week for the whole school and also a violin instructor for children wishing to learn an instrument and who have shown an aptitude for this discipline.

RESOURCESArt & Design - Borders Art Programme, Art Pack, a variety of papers, art materials, card,

paints, crayons, pencils, pastels, chalks, clay etc.

Drama - ELC Using Drama P1-3, P4-5, P6&7, stage with professional quality lighting, props, masks, costumes, etc.

Music - tuned percussion instruments, violins, recorders, tapes, etc. Specialist teacher

HEALTH and WELL BEING

Physical Education is concerned with investigating and developing fitness in knowing how the body works and how to manage it safely. This is accomplished through developing a range of skills in practical performances and games. From P1 children follow a recently developed Basic Moves Programme, which research shows increases children’s movement, balance and co-ordination skills. Again the school benefits from the expertise of a PE teacher half a day a week. We are fortunate to have specialist teaching and advice. Committed to promoting Health Education the school avails itself of many of the Sports Development Officers regularly participating in festivals and tournaments in basketball, hockey, badminton, rugby and football.

All children receive Health Education covering Physical, Safety and Emotional health. Topics covered include dental health, healthy eating, road safety, mental health and drug education.


Pupils in P5 are introduced to the topic of Healthy Relationships in friendships and also e safety as a precursor to Relationships and Sex Education introduced at P6 and developed in P7.

We use as a core resource the BBC ‘Health E’ Programme that has been approved by the Catholic Church. Parents and children are invited into school one evening to begin this part of the curriculum, as this is an important area where the school and home work together.

This is followed by a Personal Safety Programme (Keeping Myself Safe); this programme is preceded by a Parents’ Evening as parental support over the 6-8 weeks class work is extremely important.

We also use the “Keeping Myself Safe” Project in P1, which we hope will alert children to the needs of personal safety. We trust that you will continue to support this programme.

We have two Healthy Schools Representatives on the Pupil Council who promote healthy lifestyles to all pupils, staff and parents.

PERSONAL AND SOCIAL EDUCATION

This is a very important part of the school curriculum where children learn about themselves and others. Its main aim is to foster healthy self-awareness and self-esteem and to learn about independence and inter dependence. Much of this work permeates the curriculum and forms part of the life of the school. All kinds of success are celebrated at weekly whole school assemblies. Circle Time is used throughout the school in the teaching of PSD.In P7 our children get the opportunity to go to Kingswood Camp for a week of team building activities. This sets the scene for our P7 children to take on additional responsibilities to the school.


RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

AIM: to teach the children to know and love God in a living faith community

Christianity As a Roman Catholic school we strive to inspire Christian attitudes and standards in each individual child. Currently we are using This is Our Faith programme, which is a comprehensive course for children. The use of story is widely used throughout the school. Participation in discussion and response to learning in art and drama is a feature of RME. In the upper school much work is reflection and discussion. Children are taught formal prayers and Mass responses. The greatest factor in religious education is the partnership, which grows between home and school, child, parent, teacher and the Church. The school - parish - community link is most easily seen in the Reconciliation, Confirmation and First Communion Programme, which begins in P3 and continues in P4. The school endeavours to support the Parish and the family in preparing children for the Sacraments.

As part of our worship and celebration the whole school attends Mass on a monthly basis and for Holy Days of Obligation

In terms of pupil participation in Religious Observance Scottish Government guidance makes it clear that it makes an important contribution to pupils' development and that it promotes the ethos of a school by bringing pupils together and creating a sense of community. However, it also makes clear that parents have the right to withdraw children from participation in religious observance and that this right should always be made known to parents and their wishes respected. The Scottish Government also recognises that:

Where a parent chooses a denominational school for their child's education, they choose to opt in to the school's ethos and practice which is imbued with religious faith and religious observance. In denominational schools, it is therefore more difficult to extricate a pupil from all experiences which are influenced by the school's faith character.

It is important to us that all children, whatever their faith, feel happy and fulfilled at St. Gabriel’s.


HOMEWORK

Homework serves several purposes

(a) It gives parents an insight into aspects of school work and allows the parent, to a limited extent, to monitor the child’s work.

(b) It reinforces and consolidates class teaching and learning and allows unfinished work to be completed.

(c) Homework at later levels develops self-discipline in that it may incur visits to libraries, museums, use of reference books and ICT (Internet). Early and continuous parental encouragement is of great importance as good home study habits will serve the child well in the multi-discipline life of secondary and Further Education.

Homework is given at all stages and there is an expectation that all children should complete homework set. All children have a homework diary, which acts as a means of communication between home and school. At Primary 1 this involves parents supporting children in early literacy and numeracy activities, progressing to practising reading. As the child progresses the type and level of homework becomes more varied and sophisticated. In general, children will receive two night’s homework on maths and two nights on language per week. Homework is not usually given on a Friday to be returned on Monday as the school recognises the value of family time. Should any individual have difficulty with the school homework arrangements please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Torley.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES


Clubs on offer vary from year to year. Information will be sent out via newsletter

BREAKFAST CLUB/ AFTER SCHOOL CLUB

Breakfast Club operates at the Pennypit from 8am until the start of the school day.It is open to all pupils. After School Club staff collect pupils from our school and again operate from the Pennypit Community Centre. Forms and costs are available from After School staff who can be contacted on 01875 815325.

MUSICAL YOUTH

Peter and Heather Antonnelli run this club which meets in our school. P6 and P7 pupils can audition for this in May.Mondays 7.00 - 9.00 p.m.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Outdoor Education is provided to school through the East Lothian Outdoor Education Service based in Unit 3, Musselburgh Racecourse Complex, Balcarres Road, Goosegreen Road, Musselburgh, East Lothian. EH21 7SR. The aim of the service is to provide first class experiences of outdoor education for schools and other groups and to offer a support and advice service for outdoor activity in East Lothian.

Our pupils in St Gabriel’s benefit from progressive learning experiences in orienteering and problem solving in P6 and P7. We also participate in the John Muir award at P5. P7 also benefit from a Residential Experience with a focus on outdoor pursuits.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

Teaching and learning takes many forms, the best known of which is “Talk and Chalk”. In addition to this expository form, there are the more inter-active ones involving investigation, problem solving and discussion. As pupils progress through primary school, they are expected to take more responsibility for their own learning through assignments of work by the teacher. Sometimes the pupils themselves, by responding to a topic in a particular way, will be responsible for influencing the direction of a particular study.Class, group and individual methods are employed. Children in every class will be assessed to determine an appropriate level of work and group accordingly. Since children make progress at different rates and at different times, groups will be restructured from time to time, as a result of the teacher’s assessment, to ensure that the current needs of all children are being met as far as possible.


ASSESSMENT

Assessment is an important element in meeting the needs of pupils. Teachers plan to assess pupils in a variety of ways, through observation, individual and group discussions, marking of written work and through informal and formal testing.Children are given the opportunity to review their learning through the personal learning planning process. This is ongoing and is shared regularly with parents. This informs discussions between pupils and key staff on their progress and next steps, as appropriate.

REPORTINGSee under Communication with parents

SUPPORT for PUPILS’ LEARNING

AIM

As an inclusive school we aim to provide effective support for learning for all pupils, which promotes personal and social development and underpins academic achievement, enabling all children to achieve to their highest potential.

While the class teacher is responsible for the everyday teaching and learning for the children in her class we also have a Support for Learning Teacher (SfL), Mrs Marion Murray and SfL assistants. We recognise that at any time, any child may have additional support needs, which we try to meet.

The Support for Learning Teacher has the following five roles :

METHODOLOGY

1. Consultancy2. Co-operative Teaching3. Tutoring4. Specialist Services5. Staff Development

Consultancy through discussion with class teacher, the SfL teacher supplies advice and materials appropriate to child’s needs.

Co-operative Teaching working with the child within his/her own classroom.

Tutoring direct teaching of individual pupils or groups of pupils either by withdrawal to a base or in the classroom.

Specialist Services collating information on individual pupils and ensuring that it is appropriately disseminated.


Staff Development contributing to staff development in the school by sharing insight and experience and offering guidance on materials, equipment and approaches.

The class teacher regularly meets with the SfL teacher to have Staged Assessment Meetings where a child’s progress is reviewed and the next steps are planned. Methods of teaching are varied including use of phonics, computer programmes, visual aids, games etc.

Where appropriate some children will have individual learning plans for which children and parents are consulted.

Throughout the school all children regardless of age, stage, gender, race or ability are treated with respect in a positive environment and encouraged to value their efforts and progress. The importance of healthy self-esteem cannot be overestimated.

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT

For information on how our school has been improving and how we hope to develop in the future please go to our school website to access our Standards and Quality Report (abbreviated version) and our School Development Plan.

SCHOOL POLICIES

Over the course of the next year we will begin to add some of our school policies onto the website for your information.

PRACTICAL INFORMATIONPrimary 7 Responsibilities

Rationale: Children thrive on a sense of responsibility and involvement in the school life. In recognition the school has developed different areas of responsibility for P7 pupils. This gives the children a goal for Primary 7 and an incentive to work hard and behave well. Their contributions are recognised at school assemblies throughout the year and prizegiving.

Organisation: The Primary 7 teacher should timetable the above activities within some school weeks. In these sessions the children should plan the way forward for their team, prepare for assemblies/ competitions, review jobs and highlight problems etc.

P7 are all expected to be part of the teams and show good examples of citizenship, maturity, and responsibility at all times.

The P6 also have a buddy programme in the summer term for the nursery. They continue this support for the first few weeks of P1.


PUPIL COUNCIL

Children have a right to be listened to and heardEvery year, classes elect two representatives to be part of a pupil council. These children meet on a regular basis and bring the views/ideas of their classmates on how to improve St Gabriel’s further.

SCHOOL MEALS & MILK

Following the introduction of Hungry For Success, healthy balanced school lunches are served cafeteria style with hot meals served Monday to Thursday. Parents wishing their children to receive a packed lunch style meal on a Friday must order and pay for this at the beginning of the week. The children have responsibility for payment to the cashier in the dining room. The cost of a school lunch from August 2011 is £1.90. Primary 1 to 3 receive free school meals. We encourage younger pupils to keep their money in a named purse; alternatively meals can be paid for a week in advance in a named sealed envelope. A 2 weekly menu is available to parents and is on our website also.Pupils may also bring a packed lunch from home, which is eaten, in our dining room. We request that the packed lunch box should also be named. Subsidised milk can also be purchased in school and parents will be informed of cost on a termly basis.

SCHOOL DRESS CODE AND KIT

We consider ourselves to be “a school uniform school.” The wearing of school uniform is to be recommended. It creates a sense of belonging, gives the child a sense of security and can cut across social backgrounds. It also makes for easy identification on outings. School blazers are expensive. We recommend that all pupils wear school uniform. School sweatshirts and ties are reasonably priced and are available locally at the sports shop “Esprit” in Prestonpans or ordered through the school office. Trousers and skirts should be black or grey. Polo shirts may be black or white. Traditional white school shirts and ties may also be worn. There are some more formal occasions when we request our pupils to wear a white shirt and school tie and we would give them advance notice of this. We also require a change of footwear for indoors in school as we are carpeted throughout the school.

PE KIT

As PE is an essential part of our curriculum we would request parental support in ensuring that children have an appropriate change of clothing. Teachers will inform pupils and parents of PE timetable. Children require a change of clothing for PE (NO FOOTBALL COLOURS) i.e. shorts, t-shirts, gym shoes or trainers with non-marking soles (slip on or Velcro for younger pupils). All clothing in school should be clearly named, including footwear.


MEDICAL CARE

If a child is taken ill in school we will endeavour to contact parents as soon as possible. Failing this, it is essential we have an emergency contact for your child’s welfare. We are aware how frequently people change mobile phones and their numbers. Please keep us updated of all changes in numbers, addresses etc. In the event of an accident we would, of course, attempt to contact parents before taking any action. Nominated staff are specifically trained in first aid, epilepsy and allergic reactions (Epi pen administration) Specifically trained staff are covered by East Lothian Council Public Liability Insurance. It is essential that any medical condition, including allergies, be reported to the school.

During the summer months of the year we would suggest to parents the importance of applying sun protection cream/spray to their child at the start of the day especially for sports days, outings etc. Our staff would not be permitted to do this, but if you would like your child to re- apply later in the day, please put this in writing so that we are aware. Please remind your child that he/she may not apply this to anyone else.

ROAD SAFETY/TRAVEL TO SCHOOL

As a “Healthy” school we encourage as many pupils as possible to walk to school. This reduces traffic congestion around the school and therefore makes it safer. In the interests of child safety and to ensure the continued good relations we have with our neighbours, parents are advised to refrain from parking illegally on the double yellow lines and the marked zigzags. We strongly recommend using our Park’n’Stride facility at Pennypit Community Centre, 5 mins from school.

Road Safety is paramount and features in all teachers’ Forward Plans. We have a Road Safety Officer and two Junior Road Safety Officers. Walking to and from school should be encouraged but safety precautions i.e. luminescent armbands, etc. would be good practice. We have two ‘Walk to School’ weeks. We have Cycle Safety Training supported by a teacher and parent helpers. The school has also produced a School Travel Plan, details of which can be obtained from the school office.

HEALTH & SAFETY Parents are reminded that to ensure the Health and Safety of our children all visitors must report to the school reception. Parents should only enter the building by the front door at reception. Nursery parents should enter the Nursery via the Nursery door or should report to the main school office as necessary.

ACCURACY OF INFORMATION

The information contained in this booklet is correct at time of printing, but is subject to changes in roll, staffing and resources in future years.

December 2014


EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL

Resources and People Services

John Muir House Handbook

(Appendix to School Handbook)

November 2014


CONTENTSPage 4 Communication

- School Communication with Parents- Divorced/Separated Parents- Complaints Procedures

Page 5 School Ethos- Creating a Positive Ethos- Anti-bullying Policy- Anti-bullying East Lothian (A.B.E.L)

Page 6 Parental Involvement- Parent Forum and Parent Council- Parent Staff Association- Scottish Parent Teacher Council

Page 7-8 The Curriculum- Curriculum for Excellence- Educational Excursions- Outdoor Education- Religious Observance

Page 9-11 Assessment and Reporting- What is meant by Assessment- How do teachers report on your child’s progress- Where can I find out more information about assessment and

reporting?

Page 12-13 Transition- Enrolment- Pupil Placement- Reserved Places/Roll Capping in schools- School Catchment - More Choices More Chances

Page 14-17 Support for Pupils- Pupils who have additional support needs- The Education (Additional Support for Learning Act) (Scotland) 2004

(amended) 2009- Enhanced Transition for pupils with Additional Support Needs- East Lothian Educational Psychology Service- Professionals visiting schools/information sharing and confidentiality- Exceptional circumstances in which information may be disclosed

without consent- Child Protection - Children and Young People who are looked after- Teach Team

Page 18 School Improvement- The role of Quality Improvement Officers

Page 19/....


25 Local Authority Policies and practical information- Composite Classes- Absence and Attendance- Transferring Educational Data about Pupils- Consulting with pupils- Exclusion of pupils- Assistance with provision of school clothing- Free school meals- Education Maintenance Allowances (EMA)- Employment of Children- Home Education- Transport: Policy of the Council and Local Arrangements- Road Safety- Health and Safety- Medical care- Administration of Medical Procedures- Emergency closure of schools- Unacceptable Behaviour- Schools within East Lothian- Useful telephone numbers- School session dates 2015/16- Scottish Government Education Department


Communication

School Communication with ParentsThe Children (Scotland) Act 1995 amended the definition of "parent" in the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 to "Parent includes guardian and any person who is liable to maintain or has parental responsibilities in relation to, or has care of, a child or young person". Communication with parents can take many forms and have many purposes. Schools are supported by East Lothian Council to use a range of ways to ensure that all parents have the information that they need to support their own child’s learning and to help them become involved in the life of the school.

Divorced/Separated Parents – Information Effective communication between the school and parents is vital. This can sometimes be difficult when parents separate or divorce. If parents are separated or a divorce was granted after November 1996 both parents will retain parental responsibilities, unless the court has specifically removed those responsibilities. In relation to placing requests, appeals against certain educational decisions and access to pupils’ records both parents will normally have equal rights. Even if a divorce was granted prior to November 1996 the parent without custody may not have lost all rights to information and to be involved in decision-making. The above definition may also give others rights.

Schools will therefore request the names and addresses of both parents at the time of enrolment and at the annual update of data. The parent/s with whom the pupil resides will automatically receive all communications from the school. If a parent lives away from the family home they will, when the school is first informed of their address, receive a Recorded Delivery letter enquiring whether or not they wish to receive information about their child’s education. If no reply is received it will be assumed they do not wish to be kept informed and there will be no further communication unless a request for information is subsequently received. If they wish to be kept informed they will receive copies of all communications regarding the pupil including copies of reports and notification of Parents’ Meetings. The parent with whom the pupil resides will be informed that this is happening.

The school is dependent on the parent with whom the pupil resides supplying the appropriate information i.e. the address of the parent not living in the family home, details of Court proceedings prohibiting that parent’s involvement in the child’s education or any other relevant documentation. Parents/Carers should note that children can only be collected from school by the parent with whom they reside unless the parent/carers have authorised an alternative arrangement. If someone else is to collect the pupil the school should be informed in advance.

Complaints ProceduresMost complaints can and should be resolved at school level. If you have cause for concern, the first person to approach will normally be the Head Teacher. If a meeting is required with the Class or Guidance Teacher, Head Teacher or another senior member of staff then this should be arranged as quickly as possible. If you still remain dissatisfied then the procedures contained within “How to make a comment, compliment or complaint about a Council service” should be followed.

Further information can be obtained at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/complaints

School EthosSt Gabriel’s School / Handbook

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/complaints

Creating a Positive EthosEast Lothian Council schools endeavour to create a positive learning ethos in a variety of ways. Some schools have taken on initiatives such as UNICEF’s accredited scheme which promotes the learning of the UN’s Convention of Rights for the Child. Some schools have taken on approaches to promoting positive behaviour such as restorative practice and/or the Nurturing Classroom/School. Being Cool in School is an Authority-wide initiative in schools which encourages pupils to assert themselves appropriately as they face everyday situations.

More information can be found from the Scottish Government’s website on “Improving relationships and promoting positive behaviour in Scotland’s schools” at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2008/04/15100117/1

Anti-Bullying Policy All schools have an Anti-Bullying Policy as part of East Lothian Council’s Anti-bullying Policy and incidents of bullying in schools are recorded as part of the Policy.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/antibullying

Anti-bullying East Lothian (A.B.E.L)Anti-bullying East Lothian (A.B.E.L) is located at the Brunton Hall, Musselburgh. A.B.E.L is a voluntary organisation that arose out of the strong desire of parents to do something for themselves to overcome the devastating effect that bullying can have on children, their families and their community. A.B.E.L offers information and support to the young person being bullied and their family and the young person displaying the bullying behaviour and their family.

Further information can be found at: http://antibullyingeastlothian.org.uk


http://antibullyingeastlothian.org.uk/

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/antibullying

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2008/04/15100117/1

Parental Involvement

Parent Forum and Parent Council The Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006 encourages and supports more parents/carers to become involved in their children’s education. The main aims of the Act are to:

Help parents/carers become more involved with their child’s education and learning.

Welcome parents/carers as active participants in the life of the school. Provide easier ways for parents/carers to express their views and wishes.

All parents/carers are automatically members of the Parent Forum at their child’s school and will be entitled to have their views represented to the school, education authority and others, through a representative Parent Council for the school. As a member of the Parent Forum, parents/carers will have a say in selecting their Parent Council (the representative body) to work on behalf of all parents/carers at the school.

The role of the Parent Council is to: Support the school in its work with pupils Represent the views of all parents/carers Encourage links between the school, parents/carers, providers of nursery

education and the community Consult with and report back to the Parent Forum.

The Parent Council arrangements came into effect in August 2007. For more information on the Parental Involvement Act or to find out about Parents as Partners in their children’s learning contact the school or Val McIntyre, Principal Officer, Resources and People Services, telephone number 01620-827228 or by e-mailing [email protected] or the Parentzone website http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzone

Head Teachers now have a legal obligation to consult with their Parent Council to establish what they would like included in the School Handbook and ensure it is incorporated. Discussions should take place at Parent Council meetings and any decisions taken must be reflected in the school handbook. Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/parentcouncils

Parent Staff AssociationsWhere a Parent Staff Association exists at a school information on the Parent Staff Association will be provided by the school.

Scottish Parent Teacher Council (SPTC)The Scottish Parent Teacher Council is the national organisation for Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Parent Associations (PAs) in Scotland and runs an independent helpline service for all parents. You can contact the Scottish Parent Teacher Council by telephone 0131-474-6199, by e-mail [email protected], the website http://www.sptc.info or write to Scottish Parent Teacher Council, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6BB.

East Lothian Council takes out an annual membership of the SPTC for their Parent Councils.

The CurriculumSt Gabriel’s School / Handbook

http://www.sptc.info/


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/parentcouncils

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzone


Curriculum for ExcellenceSchools follow the principles and practice of Curriculum for Excellence. This 3-18 curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils will be successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors. These four main aims are referred to as the Four Capacities and underpin the work that schools do. Curriculum for Excellence comprises 8 curricular areas consisting of: Expressive Arts, Health and Wellbeing, Languages (including English, Gaelic, Classic and Modern Languages), Mathematics, Religious and Moral Education, Sciences, Social Studies and Technologies.

The curriculum is expressed in learning experiences and outcomes for learners. The principles of challenge and enjoyment, breadth, progression, depth, personalisation and choice, coherence and relevance inform the learning of all pupils All pupils will be encouraged at all stages to think about why they are learning a particular topic and how associated skills can be used in real life and in other areas across the curriculum. All pupils are engaged with teachers in planning and assessing aspects of learning and often have the choice of topics and ways to present their learning. Whilst there are eight subject areas learning will often be linked across subject areas to help children apply their knowledge and skills in new and different situations.

Further information on Curriculum for Excellence can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/curriculumforexcellencehttp://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculumhttp://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/whatcanlearnersexpect/skillsforlearning.asp

Other areas which can facilitate enhanced learning opportunities for pupils include: Instrumental Music Tuition Drama provision/Theatre Educational visits in museums/projects. Study Support and After School Activities Sport School Library Service

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/communitylifeandleisure

Outdoor EducationOutdoor Education is provided to schools through the East Lothian Outdoor Learning Service based in Musselburgh. The Outdoor Learning Service provides high quality, safe and sustainable outdoor learning opportunities. The service promotes progressive experiential learning and the benefits of healthy lifestyles. It responds to the needs of East Lothian schools and the wider community, delivering outdoor learning in an effective, inspirational and motivating manner.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/outdoorlearning

Educational ExcursionsEducational Excursions are designed and planned in accordance with the East Lothian Council's comprehensive Guidelines.


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/outdoorlearning

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/communitylifeandleisure

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/whatcanlearnersexpect/skillsforlearning.asp

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/whatcanlearnersexpect/skillsforlearning.asp

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/curriculumforexcellence

Further information can be found at: www.elcvisits.org.uk

Religious ObservanceReligious observance should provide opportunities for the school community to reflect on, and develop, a deeper understanding of the dignity and worth of each individual and their contribution to the school and wider communities. In recognition of Scotland's Christian heritage, schools are encouraged to use the rich resources of this tradition when planning religious observance. Many school communities contain pupils and staff from faiths other than Christianity or with no faith commitment. This should be taken fully into account in supporting spiritual development. It is of central importance that all pupils and staff can participate with integrity in forms of religious observance without compromise to their personal faith stances.

At present school assemblies are the most common vehicle for delivering religious observance. There should be a clear distinction between assemblies devised for the purpose of religious observance and assemblies for other purposes such as celebrating success. Religious observance might include opportunities for class, year, stage or whole school observance as well as involvement by pupils and others, including school chaplains, in planning and presentation. There is a statutory provision for parents to withdraw children from participation in religious observance. This right should always be made known to parents and their wishes respected. Parents should be provided with sufficient information on which to base a decision.

Where a child is withdrawn from religious observance, schools should make suitable arrangements for the child to participate in a worthwhile alternative activity. In no circumstances should a child be disadvantaged as a result of withdrawing from religious observance.

Further information can be found at: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/religioninschools

Assessment and Reporting

What is meant by assessment?


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/religioninschools

http://www.elcvisits.org.uk/

Assessment tells us what children and young people know, understand and are able to do. Assessment is a process which supports your child’s learning from Nursery through to S3 and not a series of events “done to them.” By involving your child in the whole process of learning and assessment and allowing them to take responsibility for their own learning, it raises their standards of achievement and develops their skills for learning, life and work. Progress therefore becomes a measure of your child’s success in setting high expectations and successfully achieving them.

What is assessed? Curriculum for Excellence comprises 8 curricular areas consisting of: Expressive Arts, Health and Wellbeing, Languages (including English, Gaelic, Classic and Modern Languages), Mathematics, Religious and Moral Education, Sciences, Social Studies and Technologies. There are also 3 key areas which all teachers are responsible for teaching Literacy across learning, Numeracy across learning and Health and Wellbeing across learning. Assessment and Reporting across East Lothian Schools Each curriculum area is broken down into a set of experiences and outcomes. These experiences and outcomes in each area are then grouped as Early Level (Nursery—P1); First Level (P2-P4); Second Level (P5-P7); Third and Fourth Levels (S1-S3). The Experience describes the learning whilst the Outcome represents what the learning will achieve. This is often explained from the pupil’s perspective as an ‘I can....’ statement.

What’s in an “outcome”? The learning within each outcome is given to your child as a series of learning

intentions. Each learning intention is supported by success criteria which are your child’s

steps to achieving success in learning. As each pupil achieves the success criteria, teachers and your child can both see

the progress in learning which is being made across outcomes within each curricular area.

How are we assessing? Teachers look at a range of evidence of learning which your child has produced before summing up his/her progress at that point in time. Some concrete examples of evidence might be:

Self-assessment of a written story focusing on paragraphing, use of descriptive language and a coherent plot.

A maths “check-up” worksheet on equivalent fractions. A PowerPoint presentation on a country’s climate, land composition and

geographical landmarks. A teacher’s observation of ball control in P.E.

Evidence of children and young people's progress and achievements will come from day-to-day learning and through the things they may write, say, make or do.

How do teachers report on your child’s progress? Progress is now defined as “how much” and “how well” your child is learning, and not solely on “how fast” although pace is still important. The new curriculum is designed to enable your child to achieve greater breadth and depth of learning whilst also securing the development of skills and knowledge. Therefore reporting must now include information on progress which is either developing, consolidating or secure depending St Gabriel’s School / Handbook

on how well your child has developed a breadth of learning, in challenging aspects and applied this learning in other curricular areas or contexts.

If your child has had opportunities to show breadth, challenge and application in the different curricular areas, but has not evidenced each through their learning and across a level, the teacher may report that your child is “developing.”

If your child demonstrates a range of evidence, where he/she has met challenges and deepened his/her learning, then your child will be “consolidating” their progress.

If your child has demonstrated that they have knowledge and understanding and skills across a breadth of learning, whilst meeting challenges across this breadth to deepen their learning and applied all of this in another context or curricular area consistently, then the teacher will report that your child is “secure.”

There is a range of ways in which your child’s teacher reports on his/her progress. Here are a few examples:

“Learning Stories” are used to build a picture of progression for your child in each curricular area.

Pupil reports are used to sum up your child’s progress in learning across the curriculum.

E-portfolios are used to provide ongoing evidence of your child’s progress.

All learning is a journey of progress, which is rarely linear and takes many routes and pathways. Your child may take longer to progress in some areas in order to ensure the security that will enable them to make progress confidently.

Teachers will report also on your child’s effort and also on the level of support given.

When do schools assess? Assessment takes place as part of everyday learning and teaching, periodically and at key transitions. As part of everyday learning, teachers are continuously assessing their pupils’ progress using learning intentions and success criteria as measures of pupils’ success. From time to time, teachers will use tests to assess children and young people's progress and achievements in order to be able to plan ahead, record and report on progress and support learners.

Transitions are the moves children and young people make, from home to nursery, from stage to stage, from primary to secondary, to further education and employment. Information about a learner's progress and achievements will be passed on to make sure that their broad general education continues at the correct level and at an appropriate pace for them.

Where can I find out more information about assessment and reporting? Your child’s school will be able to provide you with more information on how they carry out specific assessments and how they report on your child’s progress.

Further information can be found at: http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/learningteachingandassessment/assessment/index.asp http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzonehttp://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/howisprogressassessed/stages/index.asp


http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/howisprogressassessed/stages/index.asp

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/howisprogressassessed/stages/index.asp

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzone

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/learningteachingandassessment/assessment/index.asp

http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/learningteachingandassessment/assessment/index.asp

TransitionsEnrolment If you want your child to go to their catchment school, you should register your child directly with that school. You will need to provide your child's birth certificate and two pieces of proof of residence showing your current address (one of which must be your most recent council tax assessment letter or book and a recent utilities bill dated within the last six months). You must show these at the school by the beginning of December (please contact your catchment school to check enrolment days). This allows the Business Unit within Resources and People Services to give your child, as a resident in the school's catchment, priority for a place. Further information can be obtained by e-mailing [email protected]

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/enrollingyourchild

Pupil PlacementThe law allows parents to express a preference for a different school (such a school is often referred to as a non-catchment school) rather than placing their child in their local school. The Council is obliged to grant a placing request wherever possible. While most requests are granted in some cases this is not possible. The Council can only refuse a placing request if any of the criteria as per Section 28A (3) Education (Scotland) Act 1980 is met. If a placing request is refused the parent has the right to appeal this decision. An appeals panel will hear the appeal and if they come to the conclusion that they do not think the grounds of refusal quoted stand or that even though the grounds of refusal stand it is still inappropriate to refuse the place, they can overturn the decision and the child would be allocated a place in that school.

Pupil placement process must meet set timescales, all requests received by 15 March must be considered at the same time. Parents must receive the outcome of their request before the end of April. If a school is oversubscribed detailed reports outlining all the placing requests for that school are presented to the Pupil Placement Sub Committee for approval.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/choosingaschoolFurther information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/PlacingRequests

Reserved Places/Roll Capping in SchoolsResources and People Services obtains information on the migration of pupils from certain schools where we may need to reserve places for incoming district pupils. Reserving places is crucial in areas where there are high levels of house build or high migration into catchment. This also informs whether it will be necessary to roll cap certain stages within a school or the whole school to maximum number.

By the end of December we have received class organisation returns from primary and secondary schools for the next school year. This information is vital as it informs the Services of how many district pupils have enrolled and the number of non-district places that can be granted. It is also an early warning for any problems i.e. over school capacity or large increases in pupils’ numbers because of house build. Detailed reports requesting roll capping of schools or retaining places for pupils moving into the catchment area are always presented to Education Committee for approval.

School Catchment


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Every school has a catchment area; each catchment area has clear boundaries. Children living in the catchment area are given priority for places in this school. Entitlement to a place in a school is based on home address and not on attendance at an associated school or nursery class. In some areas there are separate Catholic schools available for parents wishing their child to be educated in this type of school. Children living in the catchment area and baptised in the Catholic faith are given priority for places in this school.

Each primary school in East Lothian feeds into a corresponding secondary school (click on the link to view details). The boundary lines for each primary and secondary school catchment area in East Lothian for the most remain so since circa 1980’s, and were originally recorded on printed copies of A-Z street maps and Ordnance Survey Maps. To improve accessibility of information, each school catchment area map was re-digitised for public use on the East Lothian Council’s website, as approved by Education Committee in May 2011.

The catchment boundary lines are available to view via: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/site/scripts/download_info.php?downloadID=1588

For an overview map of all the catchments, download the following map from the East Lothian Council website. There are no catchment boundaries for nursery provision.

More Choices More ChancesMore Choices More Chances is Scottish Government’s broad strategic framework for improving outcomes for young people aged 16-19 yrs old by reducing the number who are not in education, employment or training. Whilst at school, there are a number of interventions offered to school age young people to better prepare them for life beyond school including: extended work experience placements, vocational courses (some of which are certificated) and business coaching. In addition to these opportunities, post school options include Activity Agreements and a variety of Employability Fund programmes offered at stages 2- 4. The More Choices More Chances partnership includes a range of partners including Edinburgh College and other learning/training providers.


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/site/scripts/download_info.php?downloadID=1591



Support for Pupils

Pupils Who Have Additional Support NeedsAll East Lothian schools offer a range of support for children and young people with additional support needs. There are a number of additional services both within the Authority and from external agencies that offer enhanced support to pupils with additional support needs.

Provision and resources are accessed through the local authority’s processes of resource allocation and Staged Assessment and Intervention, in consultation with professionals, the child or young person and their family.

The Council’s Policy document “Framework for Meeting Additional Support Needs” provides a framework for full and effective inclusion of pupils who have additional support needs. The Authority has an Accessibility Strategy for schools which enables access to Communication, Environment and the Curriculum for all pupils. Schools also take account of the Equalities Act 2010.

The Education (Additional Support for Learning Act) (Scotland) 2004 (amended 2009) The Education (Additional Support for Learning Act) (Scotland) 2004 (amended 2009) states that:-

A child or young person who has additional support needs, and also his/her parents or carers, should be involved in any decisions-making. They can have a supporter with them at meetings or have an advocate present to present their case for them. A young person’s views must be taken into account for post-school transitions.

Young people and parents/carers should be provided with information and advice about their own, or their child’s additional support needs. They can also request, at any time, an assessment to establish additional support needs or if a Co-ordinated Support Plan is required, or for a Co-ordinated Support Plan to be reviewed.

A young person who has additional support needs or his/her parent or carer can make a placing request to another education authority or an independent school.

The local authority is required to provide a free mediation. Common Ground Mediation is East Lothian Council’s provider. It promotes collaboration between parents, children, school and education services. Anyone involved in a disagreement can access this service.

Young people and parents or carers can make an application to use the free, national Dispute Resolution process to resolve certain types of dispute.

Young people and parents or carers can appeal to the national Additional Support Needs Tribunal to challenge a decision about a Co-ordinated Support Plan and certain other matters relating to additional support needs. Free advocacy can be provided for this.

Information is available from Resources and People Services, Business Unit, John Muir House, Haddington, East Lothian, EH41 3HA.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/additionalsupportneeds

Enhanced Transition for pupils with Additional Support Needs


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/additionalsupportneeds

All children and young people go through a number of transition stages in their school education when they move from one setting to another. Children and young people with additional support needs will need different levels and types of support. In East Lothian, we manage this through the Staged Assessment and Intervention Framework. The team working with the child or young person, the child or young person themselves and their parents are best placed to decide on the level of planning and the nature of intervention needed.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/transition

East Lothian Educational Psychology ServiceEducational Psychologists are part of Resources and People Services. Educational Psychologists make regular visits to all nursery, primary and secondary schools.

What do Educational Psychologists do? Educational Psychologists work collaboratively with other professionals, parents and carers, to help children and young people overcome barriers to learning. They support school staff to enhance learning environments, to ensure they are effective for all children and young people, whatever their learning needs.

How does an Educational Psychologist become involved with my child? If you have any concerns about how your child is getting on at school, the first thing to do is share them with school staff. If staff feel that an Educational Psychologist may be able to help, they will contact their link Educational Psychologist for a consultation or invite them to a staged assessment meeting in school. If the Educational Psychologist is going to become formally involved with your child, then parental permission for this will always be sought. You are also welcome to contact the Educational Psychology Service directly if you would prefer.

You can contact the Educational Psychology Service , Telephone number 01620- 827827 or write to East Lothian Council, Educational Psychology Service, John Muir House, Haddington, East Lothian, EH41 3HA.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/educationalpsychology

Professionals visiting schools/information sharing and confidentialitySchools can call on professionals from a number of different agencies/services for help and advice. These include Educational Psychologists, officers with the Educational Services, School Doctor, School Nurse, Careers Advisor, Social Worker, Family Support Worker etc. Formal referral to any of these agencies/services would only take place with the consent of parents/carers. There will however be occasions when issues may be discussed in confidence without formal referral and therefore without such consent. If parents are concerned about this they should contact the school for further information.

Exceptional circumstances in which information may be disclosed without consentDisclosure of personal information without consent may be justified where failure to do so may expose the service-user or others to risk of serious harm. Staff should always make every effort to gain consent but the health and safety of the individual has primacy over the right to confidentiality. Exceptional circumstances may include:


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/educationalpsychology

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Child Protection: staff should adhere to the Edinburgh and Lothians Inter-agency Child Protection Procedures.

Protecting vulnerable adults Protection of Children (Scotland) Act 2003 Life threatening or dangerous situations, for example, where a young person:

shows signs of physical, emotional or sexual damage is at risk of significant harm or threatening suicide.

Child ProtectionThe East and Midlothian Child Protection Committee (EMCPC) is the key group dealing with child protection work in East Lothian and Midlothian. Child abuse can happen to any child and in any family background. We all have a duty to protect children, whether we are professionals or private individuals.

If you think a child is being abused or neglected, speak to a member staff at the child's school, the Children's Services duty social worker by calling 01875 824 090 (Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm and Fri 9am-4pm), the Emergency Social Work Service by calling (freephone) 0800 731 6969 at any time outside normal office hours. The contact details are:-

Children's Wellbeing Randall HouseMacmerry, EH33 1RW Telephone: 01875 824309 (Email: [email protected])

The Procedures promote a high level of inter-agency co-operation when working with children who may be in need of protection. Training is available for all staff in East Lothian Council to ensure that their skill and commitment is used effectively in identifying and protecting children who have been abused or may be at risk of abuse.

The Procedures will further encourage the partnership that exists between the Resources and People Services, Health and the Police in East Lothian and will help towards building a partnership with parents in carrying out our duties and responsibilities to East Lothian children and young people.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/childprotection

Children and Young People who are looked after There are some children and young people who are looked after or looked after and accommodated (LAC) and who may have additional support needs as directed by the Education (Additional Support for Learning Act) (Scotland) 2004 (amended 2009). Schools are very aware of who their LAC pupils are and the supports and strategies which may be required to meet their diverse needs. The Educational Psychology Service works closely with schools and staff from Children’s Wellbeing to support these often vulnerable young people.

Team TeachWe pride ourselves in East Lothian on providing a safe learning environment for our pupils. In exceptional situations, some of our children may get anxious or agitated, and we will do our best to help pupils through using communication skills, distraction techniques and removing triggers where possible. There may be times when children need more help; this may require staff's positive physical support to ensure; the pupil’s own safety; the safety of other pupils and staff; that property is not seriously damaged. In East Lothian, we have adopted the ‘Team St Gabriel’s School / Handbook

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Teach’ approach to manage this level of behaviour on the few occasions it occurs, and staff are trained and accredited to use a range of ‘Team Teach’ techniques. In these instances all incidents are recorded in school. Parents are informed as a matter of course. Children who are likely to need help in this way will have a Positive Handling Plan that will be discussed with you, and routinely followed by all school staff. If required we will ask parents to share relevant information with other people/agencies supporting pupils, e.g. transport, respite, link family, etc, to maintain a consistent approach for children and young people. If you have any questions about how we manage behaviour at school, or about the ‘Team Teach’ approach please contact the Head Teacher.


School Improvement

The Standards in Scotland’s Schools Act (2000) requires that every local authority aims to secure improvement in the quality of school education which is provided in the schools managed by them. As part of East Lothian Council’s legislative duty to ensure that schools are supported in improving standards for pupils each year, evaluation visits are carried out in every school twice during each school session. By focusing on improvements in performance during these visits, schools are supported in ensuring high standards are achieved and maintained.

The Role of Quality Improvement OfficersThere are 3 Quality Improvement Officers who have responsibility for support and challenge across all East Lothian schools. Responsibilities to individual schools include the following:-

Provide support pre, during and post Education Scotland Inspection Support and monitor development planning ensuring links to How Good Is Our

School? Child at the Centre and Service Improvement Framework outcomes Provide advice on staffing/finance/resources issues Support development/progression of Curriculum for Excellence Analyse and use data to challenge schools to raise attainment and achievement Participate in the appointment of senior members of school based staff Provide support in the resolution of disciplinary matters; complaints; and other

school based issues Devise and promote strategies to address areas where performance should be

improved; monitor and report on progress Undertake evaluation visits to all schools and provide reports as appropriate.

The 3 Quality Improvement Officers each have two clusters of schools within their remits:

1) Dunbar & Tranent 2) Haddington & Prestonpans3) Musselburgh & North Berwick

Other important elements within the Quality Improvement Officer role include: Monitoring of children who are home educated Parental complaints and Freedom of Information Requests Chairing cluster moderation meetings for Exceptional Needs resource allocation Reporting to Scottish Government, Education Scotland, e.g. on Curriculum for

Excellence implementation Managing Local Authority educational developments, e.g. Leadership

Development, Assessment & Moderation Involved in the recruitment process of Head Teachers and Depute Head

Teachers.


Local Authority Policies and Practical Information

Composite ClassesThere are composite classes in most schools across East Lothian. They help us to deliver effectively within the school’s budget and are based on pupil age. All classes whether composite or not, contain pupils of different abilities and levels of development. Teachers are expert in how to structure learning for pupils of differing abilities and composite classes do not pose any greater challenge than single-year classes. We know that friendship groups are important and we encourage children to mix with their friends at break, through whole-school or stage events. Parents should also create opportunities to maintain friendships and encourage new ones.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/compositeclasses

Absence and AttendanceParents are responsible for ensuring that their child attends school regularly and where an absence should occur, informing the school as to the nature of non-attendance and possible length. In cases of unsatisfactory attendance, the Head Teacher will call on the Child & Family Support Worker (Attendance) to visit the home and discuss the problem with the parents. If such unsatisfactory attendance continues the Head Teacher, following discussions with the Child & Family Support Worker (Attendance) and other agencies will decide whether the case should be referred to the local Area Attendance Advisory Group. Parents should be encouraged to take holidays wherever possible out with term times. Where parents wish to keep their child off school for some reasonable purpose, they are asked to write to the school before doing so. Where pupils have a rearranged appointment during school hours e.g. dentist, hospital the pupil should bring a note or appointment card to school before the appointment.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/attendance

Transferring Educational Data about PupilsThe Scottish Government and its partners collect and use information about pupils through the Pupil Census to help to improve education across Scotland. This note explains why we need this information, how we use it and what we do to protect the information supplied to us.

Why do we need your data?In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education service, Scottish Government, education authorities and other partners such as the SQA and Skills Development Scotland need accurate, up-to-date data about our pupils. We are keen to help all our pupils do well in all aspects of school life and achieve better examination results. Accurate and up-to-date data allows us to:

plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of all pupils plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of specific groups of pupils better understand some of the factors which influence pupil attainment and

achievement share good practice target resources better enhance the quality of research to improve the lives of young people in

Scotland

Data policy


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Information about pupils’ education is collected through our statistical surveys in partnership between the Scottish Government and Local Authorities through the ScotXed Programme which aims to help schools and Local Authorities by supporting efficient collection, processing and dissemination of statistical information. The Scottish Government then provides analysis of the data to support research, planning, management and monitoring of education services as well as to produce National Statistics publications.

Education data within Scottish Government is managed effectively by secure systems and is exploited as a valuable corporate resource, subject to confidentiality restraints. As part of its data policy, Scottish Government will not publish or make publicly available any information that allows individual pupils to be identified, nor will data be used by Scottish Government to take any actions in respect of individuals. Data is held securely and no information on individual pupils can or would be made publicly available by Scottish Government.

The individual data collected by Scottish Government through the Pupil Census is used for statistical and research purposes only.

Your data protection rightsThe collection, transfer, processing and sharing of ScotXed data is done in accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). We also comply with the National Statistics Code of Practice requirements and other legislation related to safeguarding the confidentiality of data. The Data Protection Act gives you the right to know how we will use your data. This note can give only a brief description of how we use data. Fuller details of each individual ScotXed survey, including the purpose of each and the published data, can be found on the ScotXed website (www.scotxed.net).

Scottish Government works with a range of partners including Education Scotland, Skills Development Scotland and the SQA. On occasion, in order to help meet our aim of improving the life of young people in Scotland, we may make individual data available to partners such as the National Registers of Scotland to carry out research relating to the national population census and also academic institutions and organisations to carry out additional research and statistical analysis to meet their own official responsibilities. Any sharing of data will be done under the strict control of Scottish Government, and will be consistent with our data policy. This will ensure that no individual level data will be made public as a result of the data sharing and that these data will not be used to take any actions in respect of an individual. Decisions on the sharing of data will be taken in consultation with relevant colleagues and individuals within and outwith Scottish Government. At all times pupils’ rights under the Data Protection Act and other relevant legislation will be ensured.

ConcernsIf you have any concerns about the ScotXed data collections you can email the Head of Schools Analysis, Mick Wilson, at [email protected] or write to The ScotXed Support Office, Area 2D, Victoria Quay, Leith, EH6 6QQ. Alternative versions of this page are available, on request from the ScotXed Support Office, in other languages, audio tape, Braille and large print.The information provided by you is processed electronically & stored by East Lothian Council for admin purposes in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. You have the right to see & access this information at any time. Extracts of this information will be shared with the Scottish Government & East Lothian Council’s Education & Childrens’ Services annually, exclusively for research & analysis purposes; whereby individual children will not be identified.St Gabriel’s School / Handbook


https://www.scotxed.net/default.aspx

Extracts of pupil data will also be shared with the Electoral Registration Officer to offer the opportunity to register on the Electoral Roll when approaching their 18th birthday; and may also be shared with the NHS for monitoring child health immunisation, dental and vision programmes. East Lothian Council holds & shares information on school leavers, in order to support & provide career planning services. This will consist of name, address & school results, but may also contain sensitive personal data, e.g. information about health or any convictions. To help with career choices, information may be shared with: East Lothian Council Services, SDS (Careers Scotland), Colleges or Universities, National Training Providers & relevant Voluntary Organisations. The Council will use the information in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Changes of circumstances must be notified in writing to the school immediately.

Consulting with pupilsUnder the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 the views of children should be taken into account when major decisions are being made which will affect their lives. Generally children over 12 are presumed in law to have a view but younger children may also be mature enough to have a view and should be given the opportunity to express it. While the Local Authority and schools may not be bound by this they do consult with pupils and the methods used will be included in the School’s handbook. This could include formal consultation through Pupil Councils, pupils co-opted to Parent Councils, questionnaires, suggestion boxes, review and planning meetings, as well as arrangements to consult with individual pupils at appropriate times (subject choice, exclusions etc.).

Exclusions of pupilsExclusion from school is used on occasions when the safety of the pupil concerned or others is at risk if the pupil remains in school. The period of exclusion should be as short as possible and used as a “breathing space” to enable the school/family/other agencies to work together to support the child/young person to return to school successfully.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/exclusion

Assistance with Provision of School ClothingEast Lothian Council operates a scheme of provision to ensure that a pupil is sufficiently

and suitably clad to take full advantage of the education provided. Families in receipt of

Income-Based Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support and Income Related

Employment and Support Allowance will qualify for such a scheme. Other cases may

be considered in the case of exceptional personal circumstances. Parents who wish to

apply for the scheme should complete an application form which is available from

Resources and People Services, Business Unit, John Muir House, Haddington, EH41

3HA.


http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/exclusion

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/schoolclothingandfreeschoolmeals

Free School MealsUnder the Education Committee policy, children in attendance at schools under the management of the Council are entitled to free school meals if their parents are in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseekers Allowance or Income Related Employment and Support Allowance or Child Tax Credit but NOT Working Tax Credit with an annual income of less than £16,010 or Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit with and annual income of less than £6,420. No other children are eligible for free meals. Further information can be obtained from Resources and People Services, Business Unit, John Muir House, Haddington, EH41 3HA.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/schoolclothingandfreeschoolmeals

Education Maintenance Allowances (EMAs)Education Maintenance Allowances (EMAs) have been available since August 2004 for young people aged 16 planning to continue their education in school. It is a weekly payment of £30.00 paid directly to pupils from low-income families who stay on after the end of their compulsory schooling. Application Forms and further information is available from Resources and People Services, Business Unit, John Muir House, Haddington, EH41 3HA.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/emas

Employment of Children Children under the statutory school leaving age can only be employed within their term of the bye-laws on the Employment of Children. These regulations do not permit the employment of children under 13 years of age, and for those over the age there are limits on the hours and type of employment which are allowed. Parents and employers must both complete an application form for an employment permit before the employment begins. Forms and information are available from the school office. Further details can be obtained from Resources and People Services, Business Unit, John Muir House, Haddington, EH41 3HA.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/employmentofchildren

Home Education If parents wish to remove their child from mainstream education and home educate their child, they must write to the Head of Education in the first instance stating reasons for this withdrawal and ask for permission.

Families are contacted by a member of staff within Resources and People Services annually and offered the opportunity to meet a Quality Improvement Officer and discuss the education provision for the child/children. If a family declines a meeting, they must submit information, in writing, about how they are meeting the educational needs of their child/children.


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All enquiries made about home education are recorded in the department and a letter is sent to the family. Included with the letter is a leaflet for parents/carers giving details of websites offering advice and support.

For information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/homeeducation

Transport: Policy of the Council and Local ArrangementsThe Council's current policy is to provide home to school transport for those pupils attending the catchment school who live more than two miles from that school. Bus passes are issued where public transport exists and contract transport is arranged where there is no suitable public transport. Where there are vacant seats on contract buses, these may be made available to pupils who are not normally entitled to free transport on a "grace and favour basis" but must be applied for each session. These can be withdrawn should the seat be required for pupils who qualify for this provision.

Travelling expenses are also met in the case of any pupil whom the Council requires to attend a school other than the district school, if the pupil meets the distance qualification and where appropriate, free travel is provided for pupils receiving special education. Parents who choose to send their children to a school other than the district school will not receive assistance in relation to travel to and from school.

Further information and an application form can be obtained from Resources and People Services, Business Unit, John Muir House, Haddington, EH41 3HA.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/schooltransport

Road SafetyEast Lothian Council working with Lothian and Borders Police and other agencies are committed to reducing the numbers and severity of road casualties. They have identified a number of important initiatives to help reduce the number of road casualties. These will require a notable change of behaviour by everybody, particularly from drivers in built-up areas.

These initiatives aim to reduce the number of car journeys to and from school by pupils, parents and staff to:

Encourage children to walk or cycle to school, thereby improving the safety for the pupil on the journey to school

Provide pupils and parents with appropriate training to allow them and their children to journey to and from school safely

Improve pedestrian safety in and around school Raise awareness amongst pupils, parents, and staff of the wider health and

environmental problems associated with increase car use Improve the local environment for everyone by reducing pollution, congestion

and addressing safety issues around the school.

Parents should always be reviewing their current or intended mode of travel to and from school and consider whether or not it should be changed or modified to help the school, pupils, staff and other parents to reduce the number of child casualties.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/roadsafety

Health and SafetyResources and People Services have prepared statements of safety policy for all areas of its responsibility in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. School St Gabriel’s School / Handbook

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staff are fully instructed in their responsibilities in this respect, and safety regulations apply to aspects of school life, both on and off the premises. It is expected that pupils will behave responsibly and comply with all safety requirements. The support of parents in promoting good practice in health and safety matters is of great importance to the school.

Medical Care Throughout their years at primary and secondary school, all pupils will be seen from time to time by a team of specialists, Health Service and Resources and People Services staff to make sure they benefit as much as possible from all that school has to offer, and to help them prepare for life after leaving school. The School Health Service is part of the Community Child Health Service and has direct links with those who carry out health checks on children before they start school.

Administration of Medical ProceduresAll members of staff who have agreed to be trained in the administration of specific drugs to pupils suffering from all epileptic seizure or a severe allergic reaction and who are required to apply specific drugs to those pupils will be covered by East Lothian Council's Public Liability Policy.

Further information can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/adminofmedication

Emergency Closure of SchoolsThe first priority of the Head Teacher must be to keep the school open if at all possible. However, the early closure (or part closure) of a school in an emergency may be required because of fire, flood, loss of building services, extreme weather conditions or some other event. When children have to return from school at a time earlier than normal, parents may not be able to arrange for them to be received at home by themselves or by an adult who will look after them. Head Teachers must be reasonably satisfied that there will be a responsible adult available to receive the child, and must be prepared to make arrangements for the supervision of certain children in school, until the normal closing time of the school.

In these circumstances, the Head Teacher should consult with the Head of Education. The Head of Education will use all of the information available both centrally and locally to decide whether the school should be closed and whether this would be for pupils only or for the whole school community. It should be noted that close contact will be maintained with the School Transport Officer at East Lothian Council.

The Head Teacher will prepare and send to the Head of Education the relevant information for notifying the media, through the Corporate Communications Team of East Lothian Council. This information should include the name of the school which is closing, whether it is a partial or whole school closure, i.e. to pupils; pupils and staff; community groups and the reason why the school is closing. Information will also be required on how long the closure will be and how the media, parents, carers and pupils will be informed when the school will be reopening. Once approval has been granted to close a school, Resources and People Services will notify the Corporate Communications Team to ask them to inform the media and upload messages to the Council’s communications channels, such as its Twitter feed, intranet and the Council’s website http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk. Whenever possible, schools will update their own school website with this information.


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Unacceptable BehaviourEast Lothian Council does not tolerate physical or verbal abuse towards staff. Such abuse is a criminal offence and may lead to prosecution.

Schools within East LothianA list of all nursery, primary and secondary schools can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/educationandlearning

Further information can also be found at:http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/educationandlearning

Useful Telephone NumbersThe undernoted staff are based within Resources and People Services, John Muir House, Haddington, EH41 3HA.Depute Chief Executive Alex McCrorie 01620-827633Head of Education Darrin Nightingale 01620-827633Head of Children’s Well-being Sharon Saunders 01620-827881Principal Educational Psychologist Lynne Binnie 01620-827587Education Service Manager (Operations and Strategy)

Richard Parker 01620-827494

Education Service Manager (ASL and Early Years

Alison Mitchell 01620 827565

Principal Inclusion & Equality Officer Fraser Parkinson 01620-827961Parental Involvement Act (Parent Forums/Councils)

Val McIntyre 01620-827228

Free School Meals, Clothing Grants, Education Maintenance Allowance, Pupil Placement and Home to School Transport Policy

Fiona Brown 01620 827415

Primary School Lets 01620-827811

School Session Dates

School session dates for 2015/16 were approved by the Education Committee on 30 September 2014 and can be found at: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/sessiondates

The Scottish Government can be contacted at:Scottish Government Education DepartmentVictoria QuayEDINBURGH, EH6 6QQTelephone Number 0131-556-8400

http://home.scotland.gov.uk

Accuracy of InformationThe information contained in this booklet was accurate as at November 2014.

November 2014


http://home.scotland.gov.uk/

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/sessiondates

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/educationandlearning

http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/educationandlearning

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