Orchards C of E Primary School

OrchardsC of E Primary& NurserySchoolProspectusCherry Road, Wisbech, PE13 3NPTelephone 01945 583799www.orchards.cambs.sch.ukoffice@orchards.cambs.sch.uk

ORCHARDS CHURCH OF ENGLAND NURSERY & PRIMARY SCHOOLCherry Road : Wisbech : PE13 3NPTelephone 01945 583799www.orchards.cambs.sch.ukoffice@orchards.cambs.sch.ukWELCOMEDear Parents,If your son or daughter is about to join us, may we welcome you and your family andhope that you will all be very happy during your time with us.The success of our school is based upon the strong and positive partnership betweenparents, staff, the Church and the governing body. We believe in creating an atmospherewhich fosters learning and everyone working together for the benefit of allchildren. We believe in high standards of behaviour and work, supported by strongattendance.Confidence in school comes from knowing and understanding what happens there. Wehope this brochure will help you become more informed about what we do and how wedo it.We value your support and your activeparticipation in making Orchards ahappy and successful school for all ourpupils. I always welcome suggestionsand feedback; please see me by thegate in the mornings or ask for anappointment at the office.I hope this brochure will answer manyof the questions you may have aboutthe school. If you would like toknow more about us, or if you are aprospective parent, please make anappointment to visit. I would be onlytoo happy to show you around.Nicola ParkerHeadteacher

Orchards is a Church of England School controlled by Cambridgeshire CountyCouncil. It is for boys and girls aged 3+ to 11 years.This is the team that cares for our children;Chairman of Governors : Mrs Ann PurtHeadteacher:Deputy Head:Mrs Nicola ParkerMiss Jaynie LynchTeaching Staff :Foundation StageKS1KS2Specialist TeachersMrs N Ketley (Snr Leadership Team)Miss J Harrison (Early Years Leader)Mrs S HookeMrs Z LesterMrs J DavallouMiss E MiddletonMiss E PettitMiss J BridgesMiss K CunninghamMiss H Wosahlo (Y2/3 Phase Leader)Mrs D WardillMr N CantMiss A SmithMiss E BurrowsMrs S WhatlingMrs D Fisher (Y4/5 Phase Leader)Miss M Mival (SENCO)Miss R Kilsby (Reading Recovery)Mrs N Turner (Every Child Counts)Mr F Laband (Maths Leader)Miss A White (English Leader)Teachers are supported by a committed team of teaching assistants who support theteacher in lessons, teach groups of children and support 1:1.School Secretary:Admin Support :Finance :Mrs J OrmistonMrs L GriggsMs A Risebrow

Family SupportMrs J CarlileWellbeing Team Mrs D Graveling Mrs L FfoulkesMrs L JohnsonTeaching Mrs A Rust Mrs J JonesAssistants Mrs A Hill Miss D BallMrs C RuddMiss L CobbMrs W OldmanMrs T MooreMrs J CawleyMrs P HadlowMrs C BonnettMrs C RowellMrs F ClarkeMrs C StrattonMrs D WebbMrs J WilloughbyMiss A TaylorMrs J WhiteMrs N WhyattMrs A TrundleMrs P HermanMiss L DearMrs C BenbowMrs K HallamMr T Martin (P/T Artist)Mr D Martins (Portuguese)Miss K Reinertaite (Lithuanian + Russian)Miss V Vaitekunaite (Lithuanian)Mrs A Wojcik (Polish)Midday Supervisory AssistantsMrs N Helsdon (Snr Supervisor)Mrs A ClarkeMiss G AlexanderMs J WhiteMiss K WillettsMiss M Keen (Snr Supervisor)Mrs M BrownMrs R ChalcraftMrs L ReachMrs L WinsorMrs M RobertsMiss S WylesMr D WelfareMrs M VenniMiss K CrerandMrs D MattlessMiss L MorrisMrs B MuffettMrs K CochraneMiss M BurchellCookKitchen StaffCaretakerMrs L HobleyMrs M BoughMrs A PopeMrs K ElseMr J Warren

School GovernorsHeadChairpersonClerkVice ChairMrs Nicola ParkerMrs Ann Purt (Community Governor)Mrs Christine CliftonMrs Dawn Mattless (Parent Governor)Mrs Carol Cox (LA Governor)Revd. Neil Gardner (Foundation)Mrs Veronica Marsden (Community Governor)Ms Tracy Collins (LA Governor)Mrs Sally Thompson-French (Parent Governor)Mrs A Braithwaite (Foundation)Full governors meetings are held at least twice a term and the minutes are availablefrom the office should you wish to read them.The governors are committed to the long term future and success of the school andto ensuring that the education offered is of the highest quality.Cambridgeshire CountyCouncilEducation DepartmentCastle CourtShire HallCambridgeCB3 OAPTel: 03450455200Admissions: 01223 699662This is the telephone number you need if you want to apply for a place at Orchardsfor your child, or if you want to find out how an application is progressing.

OUR VISION and VALUESOur Vision:Orchards is a fully inclusive school where everyone can develop their skills and achieve theirbest across the curriculum, within a Christian setting.Orchards is:-A place of excellence, enrichment and creativity where children can achieve full theirfull potential in academic, creative, personal, physical, moral and spiritual development.A caring place where children and adults feel they make a contribution and are valued asindividuals.A place of Christian values, where children learn respect for themselves and others.A partnership between children, parents, staff, governors and the community as a whole.Our Aims:For children to be independent learners and thinkersFor children staff and parents work actively in partnershipTo inspire a love for learningTo provide a relevant curriculum for allFor children to value themselvesTo foster a sense of belonging to our community hubTo support all children to realise their full potentialOur Values:We want every child to be safe and happy in our school. We believe that the key to this isfor us all to have self-respect, respect for others and respect for property.Everyone has the right to:feel safe and cared forbe able to learn to the best of their abilitybe able to develop their skillsbe treated equally irrespective of gender, race, physical characteristics or any otherfactorslearn and play without disruptionSupport when they need itEveryone is expected to:be responsible for themselvesbe respectful of the rights of otherstry their best in everything they doBullying and racism are positively discouraged at Orchards.

ORCHARDS IS... word art created by staff and governors, Spring2012

Our Christian Ethos:As a Church of England School, Orchards Primary embraces a Christian ethos. The followingextract comes from a statutory statement and sums up our aspirations:‘The school aims to serve its community by providing an education of the highest qualitywithin the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understandingof the meaning and significance of faith and promotes Christian values throughthe experience it offers to all its pupils.’Our Christian Values:Orchards Primary School encourages and promotes Christian values. Children are viewed asuniquely precious and valued as individuals. Care and concern for all pupils is of a highest priorityand woven into the fabric of daily school life.

NURSERYWe are very excited that our new Nursery will be open for September 2013. Wewould welcome any visits from parents considering applying for a Nursery place.Parents wishing to apply for a Nursery place for their child should contact theschool and apply formerly, using the LA nursery admission form as follows:by November 2013 for places in Spring 2014by January 2014 for places in Summer 2014Letters will be sent out approximately 1 week after each closing date.Parents should be aware that there is no link between a place in our Nursery and admissionto a Reception class.Places in the Nursery will be allocated on the basis of intake limit and the admissionscriteria set by the LA, including distance from school. For September there are 52part-time places available. In the event of over subscription, the following criteriawill be used to determine priority for places: Children with a high level of need who have been referred by a Social Worker,Health professional, Pre-School Learning Support Teacher, Special Needs Officeror the Traveller Referral Team. Children living in the catchment area for the Nursery who had their 3 rd birthdaybefore 1 st September in the year of admission. Children not living in the catchment area who had their 3 rd birthday before 1 stSeptember in the year of admission. Children living in the catchment area who had their 3 rd birthday during theterm before admission. Children not living in the catchment area who had their 3 rd birthday during theterm before admission.In cases of equal merit, priority will be given firstly to children in public care, thento children who have a sibling attending the nursery at the time of admission andthen to those children living nearest the nursery, as measured by a straight line.Eligible dates of birth for NurseryDate of birthSpring2012Summer 2012 Autumn 2012 Spring 2013 Summer 2013 Autumn 20131 Sept. 2008-31 Dec. 2008 1 Jan. 2009-31 Mar. 2009 1 April 2009-31 Aug. 2009 1 Sept. 2009-31 Dec. 2009 1 Jan. 201031 Mar. 2010 1 April 2010-Aug. 2010

Where more applications are received than places available, the over-subscriptioncriteria will be applied and those children who are not offered places will have theirdetails added to a reserve list. This list will be held until such time as the child isexpected to transfer to Reception. Further information can be obtained from theschool.AdmissionsThe school provides part time provision for children who will have their third birthdayduring the academic year i.e. between September 1 st and August 31 st . Childrenusually attend five half days sessions each week. Five nursery places are reservedfor children with special needs who may not necessarily be from our catchment area.Children transfer from the nursery in the September after they are four. Part timeattendance helps the children adjust more easily to full time education.

OUR SCHOOLOrchards Church of England Primary Schoolcaters for children between the age of 3 and11 years, before transferring to their chosenSecondary School.The BuildingThe accommodation comprises of 2 halls, Multi-Media Room, Nursery, three Receptionclasses through to two classes, at present, in each year group up to Year 6.There is a secure Nursery play area, Reception play area and two other hard play areasfor the other year groups. There are approximately 350 pupils on-roll at OrchardsChurch of England Primary School and 52 in the Nursery.The School DayNursery :8.30-11.30am 12.00-3.00pmKey Stage 1 :8.45-12.00pm 1.00-3.00pmKey Stage 2 :8.45-12.00pm 1.00-3.05pmAll doors open at 8.30am. If you need to leave your child at school before 8.30amwe do have a Breakfast Club.Parents may wait for their children on the playground at the end of the school day.A range of after-school clubs are availableuntil 4.15pm if you need to collectyour child later. Please ask at the officefor further details.

Admission NumbersCambridgeshire Education Authority (LA) is responsible for setting the admissionspolicy and criteria for our school. Parents wishing to apply for a Reception placefor their child in September 2014 should contact the school for an admission form.This form should be completed and returned to the school no later than January2014.Places will be allocated on the basis of a Published Admission Number (PAN) forthe year group and the admissions criteria set by the LEA. The PAN for receptionin 2013 is 90. In the event of over-subscription, the following criteria will be usedto determine priority for places::1. Children with a Statement of Special Educational need which names theschool (As agreed with the Student Assessment Service)2. Children with a verified medical need (supported by medical evidence andagreed by the consultant community paediatrician)3. Children living in the catchment with a brother or sister in attendance at theschool.4. Any other children living in the catchment area.5. Children living outside the catchment area who are unable to gain access totheir catchment area school because of oversubscription6. Children living outside the catchment area with a brother or sister at theschool at the time of admission.7. Any other children seeking a place at the school.In cases of equal merit, priority will be given to those children who would havefurthest to walk by the shortest available safe walking route to the nearestalternative school.Parents seeking places in other year groups can apply at any time. If there is placeit will be offered. If the year group is full, the child will be placed on a reserve listand the parents offered the right to appeal.Orchards is a fully inclusive school and works with parents to meet the needs ofany child requesting a place.Further information about admissions can be found in the LA Primary AdmissionsBooklet for parents.

HolidaysAll holidays are set by the County Education Officer with additional Staff Training Daysset by the County and the Headteacher after consultation with the school Governors.An absence form can be obtained from the school office and the request will be taken tothe Headteacher, but please note any holiday taken within school time will be unauthoriseddue to disruption to children’s education. We would prefer for children to have familyholidays during school holidays.Term Dates - 2013-14TRAINING DAY 3rd SeptemberWednesday 4th September Friday 20th DecemberMonday 28th OctoberFriday 1st November (half term)TRAINING DAY 6th January 2014Tuesday 7th JanuaryFriday 4th AprilMonday 11th FebruaryFriday 21st February (half term)TRAINING DAY 22nd AprilWednesday 23rd AprilMonday 26th MayMay Day Monday 5th MayWednesday 23rd JulyFriday 30th May (half term)Two more training days will be selected. You will be notified of these on the newsletter andthe website.2014-154 September to 19 December 2014Half term, 27 October to 31 0ctober 20146 January to 27 March 2015Half term, 16 February to 20 February 201513 April to 22 July 2015May Day, 4 May 2015; Half term, 25 May to 29 May 2015Two county-wide training days: Wednesday 3 September 2014 and Monday 5 January 2015.We will have three further training days which will be notified nearer to the time.2015/20163 September to 18 December 2015Half term, 26 October to 30 October 20155 January to 24 March 2016Half term, 15 February to 19 February 201611 April to 21 July 2016

AbsenceWhenever your child is absent for any school sessions (i.e. in the morning or afternoon)please notify the school by telephone (428854), or in writing, by 9.00am. If a child is absentwithout explanation, a member of the school team will contact parents by telephone before9.15 am on the day of absence. It is our duty to inform the Education Welfare Officer ofpersistent absence and lateness. Expected attendance is 95% or higher.Please notify school as soon as possible of any planned absence. Orchards school follows theWisbech Schools Partnership agreement on attendance. Please ask the school office for acopy.Academic Year 2012/13 Total number of pupils on roll 400.4.9% authorised absence2.8% unauthorised absences92.3% attendanceAccessibilityOur school is an inclusive school. We make all our childrenwelcome and feel happy to look forward to their school day.Every child is different and we view differences as anopportunity for adults and children alike to learn more aboutourselves.If your child has a disability he or she will be treated no less favourably than otherapplicants for admission. We make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils withdisabilities are not placed at a substantial disadvantage. Any special requirements areplanned on an individual basis to ensure we meet the physical needs of all children.AccidentsAny accidents should immediately be reported to supervising teachers.For minor cuts and grazes, the child will be sent to the office.For a more serious accident the teacher on duty will access the situationand make necessary First Aid arrangements. If necessary, parentswill be contacted and asked to take the child home. A number ofthe members of staff hold current Emergency First Aid Certificates.On the rare occasion we would like to have an injury dealt with at hospital,we will ring you immediately. It is very important that you updateyour telephone number at the office whenever you change it.ChargingWhen school trips are being considered, parents are informed byletter of the details of the proposed visit including details of voluntarycontributions we should need if the visit is to go ahead. TheGovernors would not wish any pupil to be prevented from taking partin any trip through the inability of parents to pay. Where parentsare unable to make the contribution requested e.g. towardstransport costs, the school will seek, in confidence, to assist suchparents financially. We also now have a new savings scheme to helpparents get ready for residential trips!

Child ProtectionIt may be helpful to know that the Children’s Act 1989 requires all staff to pass on informationwhich gives rise to concern about a child’s welfare, including risk from non-accidentalinjury, neglect, emotional or sexual abuse. It is a school’s duty to take the attitude thatwhere there are grounds for concern they should be very cautious and seek advice fromSocial Services, rather than risk the child’s safety. In line with the Human Rights Act 1998the headteacher and other designated child protection personnel will notify parents/carersof the nature and cause of any proposed referral wherever possible. The headteacher does,however, have the right not to inform parents/carers if she decides this will put the child ingreater danger. Occasionally, this duty on headteachers means that a concern is passed onwhich is later shown to be unfounded. It is hoped that the parents/carers will appreciatehow difficult it is for schools to carry out this delicate responsibility and accept that theheadteacher will always act in good faith and in the best interests of all children in school.CommunicationAt the beginning of the school term and at regular intervals thereafter you will receive anewsletter giving you further information about school activities. The website and our facebookpage provide more regular updates. (To join the facebook page for updates search forOrchards CofE Primary School Wisbech. Once you have found it you need to like the page toreceive updates.)May I emphasise that you, as parents, are very important to us at OrchardsChurch of England Primary School. I will be delighted to discussyour child's progress or problems at anytime, although it would be helpfulto ring and make an appointment first. The more we know about your child,the more we are able to help. Your child’s progress will depend to a greatextent on the co-operation between home and school. The staff and I lookforward to working with you all.Community LinksOur school seeks to be a happy place; with a welcoming friendlyatmosphere built on mutual respect: with confidence and understandingbetween parents, children, staff and governors.We try to help children learn that courtesy, good manners andconsideration for others are very important.Several times during the year we will be extending a warminvitation to you to join us for various functions such as OpenEvening, Sharing Assemblies festivals and so forth. Details ofthese events will be given in regular Year Group /school newsletters, and will also be published on the website and facebookpage.We maintain close links with the local Secondary Schools and attemptto make the transition as smooth as possible for all ourchildren. This includes organising visits for children in Y5 and Y6.We have a transition pilot at the moment, with children makingvisits in small groups. Children will be supported in transitionacross school and will meet their new teacher in July.

Emergency ClosureShould the school have to be closed for any reason, notices willbe displayed on the school gates, if possible. Information willbe broadcast on Radio Cambridgeshire following clearly definedby County procedures. You can also check Cambridgeshire websiteand our school website. We will also let you know as soon aspossible on Facebook. In the case of snow, we have to wait untilenough members of staff arrive before we know we can open.Many teachers travel from Whittlesey, Peterborough and Ely.Equal Opportunities and Inclusion For AllOur school operates an equal opportunity policy for boys andgirls in all areas of the curriculum and in the life of the school.(A copy of the Governors' policy may be seen on request). Webelieve every child has a right to be safe and happy in school,allowing them to reach their full potential. If you or your childis worried about any aspect of school life, please talk to MrsParker or Miss Lynch.Fire DrillsThe drills are held at least once per term and the children aretaught safe exit routes, assembly points and general emergencyprocedures. This includes from all parts of the school grounds.We have a good record of successful fire drills as a result of thecalm responses of all staff and children.Health and SafetyThe Headteacher is responsible for Health, Safety and Welfare. Pupils and staff are expected:(a) to exercise personal responsibility for the health and safety of themselves andothers;(b) to observe standards of dress consistent with safety and/or hygiene;(c) to observe all the Health and Safety rules of the school and in particular the instructionsof staff given in an emergency:to use and not wilfully misuse, neglect or interfere with things provided for his/herhealth and safety.Simple first aid is applied in school. If an accident occurs, we will contact you.In the summer, many parents like their children to be protected from the sun.In very hot weather we like the children to have hats.Children who use inhalers should have them in school at all times. It is very important thatparents inform the Headteacher if their child uses an inhaler. The named inhaler must bekept in the classroom in case it is needed.The School Nurse can be contacted at the Clinic in St Augustine’s Road.

Almost inevitably, your child will catch one or more of the common childhood illnesses.Hopefully this chart will give you some useful information.ILLNESSWHOOPING COUGHTONSILLITISMUMPSCHICKENPOXMEASLESGERMAN MEASLESVERRUCAEABSENT FROM SCHOOLUntil pronounced fit by doctor.Until pronounced fit by doctor.Until swelling has disappeared.Minimum of 5 days from appearance of rash.Minimum of 4 days from appearance of rash.Minimum of 4 days from onset of rash.There is no need to exclude children from swimming.It may help limit spread by covering the wart with aspecial sock at the swimming pool.The Health and Safety Policy is available to read in school.HomeworkSmall amounts of homework are set for KS1 pupils; this will beeither additional/supportive work which is necessary for themto achieve well. Please listen to your child read three times aweek to help him/her continue to make good progress. KeyStage 2 children have regular homework for English, Maths andSpellings. The teachers see homework as an important link betweenhome and school which helps inform parents of children’slevels of achievement and supports children’s learning. Parentsare not expected to act as teachers, but children may occasionallyneed some help to complete the work. The support asked for is to provide a suitableplace for your child to work free from distractions of television, other noisy activities etc.Parents can also help by encouraging children to show interest in things around them,watching relevant TV programmes together, visiting worthwhile places of interest, visitingthe library and using websites such as BBC schools. There is a useful list to supportlearning at home on the school website.Home/School AgreementThe aims of agreement are principally to promote a closeworking relationship between home and school, to help clarifyroles and responsibilities which lead to even greater successfor the children. All parents will be sent a copy of theagreement on their child's entry to school.Lost PropertyWe can take no responsibility for personal property that isbrought to school. We attempt to find the owner of anyproperty that is found in school and return it promptly. Thecareful labelling of property will make this task easier.Thank you.

Making a ComplaintIf you are unhappy about any aspect of your child's education or experience at school youshould make an appointment to see the class teacher. We would hope that discussing thematter with the teacher should be enough to resolve the problem. However, if you are stillunhappy and wish to take the matter further you should make an appointment to see thePhase Leader, the Deputy Head and finally the Headteacher. If after discussion with theHeadteacher the matter still remains unresolved you should tell the Headteacher you wishto make a formal complaint. The Headteacher will give you a copy of the complaints procedure,the name and address of the Clerk to the school Governors and the name of the personto write to in the Educational Department in County Hall. You will be asked to make yourcomplaint in writing, but if you wish, you will be able to attend a meeting of the GoverningBody or of members and officers of the County Council, when your complaint is consideredand explain it to them. It will be for the County Council or the governors to decide if thecomplaint is justified and what should be done about it.If you are still not satisfied when you are told of their decision you may complain to theSecretary of State for Education.Phase Leaders for 2013/14 are as follows: Miss Harrison Nursery, Reception and Y1 Miss Wosahlo Y2 and Y3 Mrs Fisher Y4 and Y5 Mrs Whatling Y6MedicinesIf a child needs prescribed medication to be administered atschool, then it must be delivered by a parent/guardian, whoshould complete an administration proforma with precise details as to dosage and time whenthe medicine is to be given and must be given to the office staff. IT MUST NOT BE GIVENTO CHILDREN TO BRING INTO SCHOOL. The medicine is stored safely and the designatedpersons have the ultimate responsibility for administering the medicine to the child concerned.No un-prescribed medicine or tablets will be given to pupils at anytime.Helping HandsIf any parent/carer feels able to offer specific skills or just timeon a regular or casual basis then please contact your child’s ClassTeacher, Mrs Parker or Miss Lynch. Such help is appreciated; wefind that all parents/carers have something to offer, even whenthey think they haven’t. This is subject to CRB checks in line withSafeguarding Policies.Pastoral CareAll the children are in the care of the teachers who are responsible for their well-being. Awarm family atmosphere is encouraged where we all care for each other. This is a very importantpart of education and preparation for the future.Julie Carlile on 428854 is always available to discuss any family issues or concerns.

ReportsAs part of routine classwork and sometimes under test conditions the children will regularlybe assessed to gauge their progress and to indicate to staff their learning needs. At theend of KS1 and KS2 all year 2 and 6 children will hove a period of testing in May/June. Theresults of these SATS are included separately with your child's end of year report with opportunitiesfor parent/teacher consultations. Year 3, year 4 and year 5 also have a moreformal period of testing in the Summer Term. During the Autumn and Spring Terms a formalParents Evening is held when parents arrange individual appointments with the classteacher to discuss their child's progress. An annual report will be sent to all parents givingdetails of their child's progress and opportunities at the end of the Summer Term. Thereare opportunities to meet the teacher to discuss the report, or request a translation meeting.Please complete the slip enclosed with your child’s report if you would like a meetingwith the class teacher or a translator.Road SafetyParents are requested to not park in the ‘Keep Clear zone’. Once the children have left theschool premises they are the parents’ responsibility. Please encourage them to behave safely,especially immediately outside the school gate and along the footpath.Children coming to school on bicycles and scooters should dismount on coming through theside gate and wheel their bikes along the path and through the playground to the shelter.All bicycles should have locks, as they are left at the owners’ risk.Unfortunately the car park is for staff only. Taxis can use the car park todrop children off, also cars with disable stickers. We are looking intobetter solutions for the drop off zone, but in the meantime ask all parentsdriving their children to school to be aware of other pupils as they arrive.School DressWe request that children adhere to the school dress code listed below. We wish to projecta positive and easily recognisable image of the school, and implicit in the acceptance of aplace at this school is an acceptance by parents and pupils to support the ethos of theschool by providing the code of dress adopted by the school:GirlsBlack/Grey tunic or skirtsBlack/grey trousersWhite blousesGold or white polo shirtsBottle Green sweatshirt or cardiganShoes PREFERABLY BLACKBoysGrey or black trousersWhite shirtsGold or white polo shirtsBottle Green sweater or school sweatshirtShoes PREFERABLY BLACKPlease no heavy boots for indoors or high heels pleaseas children run around at playtimeFor SummerGrey/green/ black shorts/grey or black trousersGold or green checked dresses Short sleeved white shirt or polo shirtSun hatsSandals not flip flopsSunglasses (please be aware we cannot be responsible for these)

The children need special clothes for PE for hygiene reasonsPlain dark shorts, plain white T-shirt and gym shoes/trainersA track or jogging suit is advisable during cold weather.Each child should be provided with a labelled shoe-bag containing PE Kit.ALL ITEMS OF CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR SHOULD BE CLEARLYNAMED SO IT CAN BE RETURNED IF LOSTJeans must not be worn by anyone, neither multi-coloured beachwear, tops orshorts which carry slogans or pictorial emblems.Hair colouring is not permitted. Jewellery (necklaces, bracelets, drop or ring earrings) is notsafe to be worn in school. If children have pierced ears, one stud per ear is permitted andmust be removed by the child for PE work. Other body piercing is also considered unsafe.It has become fashionable to have designs shaved into children’s hair. Although we have noobjections to this, we would advise parents to avoid using the child’s name as part of the designfor child protection reasons.SecurityWe like to welcome visitors to our school. We have a securitydevice fitted to our Reception doors to ensure we are aware ofall visitors who are on site. All visitors are required to wear anidentification badge when inside the building. Please do not beoffended if asked who you are, although the staff in yourchild’s class know who you are it is the duty of everyone inschool to keep all children safe.SmokingIt is the school Governors' policy that no smoking is allowed anywhere on school premises orgrounds.SnacksAs a healthy eating school we are keen to support children inmaking healthy choices. Children in Reception, Y1 and Y2 areprovided with fruit. Children in Y3-6 can buy 2 healthy itemsfrom the tuck shop. They are also welcome to bring their ownhealthy snack or plain biscuit (ie plain Hobnobs) cheese or fruit.Special Educational Needs.Children are individuals and do not all progress at the same pace, at the same time. Somechildren make small steps, but we expect all children to make good progress over the year.Whilst we do our best to cater for all needs in the classroom situation, occasionally it isnecessary to seek advice and assistance from support services within the authority.Naturally, you will be consulted if this is required in your child's case. Our Special NeedsPolicy is renewed annually, and a named governor has responsibility for Special Needs.

Swearing/Threatening Behaviour- Zero tolerance policyGovernors’ policy is that swearing is not allowed anywhere on school premises or grounds.Threatening behaviour to any member of the school community will result in a verbal warningin the first instance. If the behaviour continues the person will be requested to leavethe site – procedures will then be followed as per Cambridgeshire County Council guidelines.We always want to support the community in resolving issues, and Mrs Parker will alwaysmake time to see any parent with a concern.Visiting SchoolThe importance of a good relationship between parents and teachers cannot be overstressed, and we always welcome visits/meetings if you have a concern. Parents should at alltimes be aware of the work their children are doing and teachers informed of any incidentor circumstance that could affect a child's progress. Newsletters and Parents Eveningshelp keep you informed. Please ask your child’s class teacher if you have any questions. Theeducation of a child is a responsibility shared by parents and school.The school holds Celebration Assemblies, where certificates are presented, not just foracademic work but for showing a caring, helpful attitude to others as well as for goodattendance.Parents are also invited to special events, class assemblies and festivals/fairs.The kitchen team are have many speciallunches. Your child can select to havethese lunches even if they normally havea packed lunch.Dining ArrangementsPupils can have a school meal in the Junior hall. A set meal is available at a current cost of£2.10 per day. The money being brought to school on Monday in a labelled purse or envelopeand given to the class teacher. Cheques are made payable to Orchards Primary School. If achild is absent a credit is carried forward. We strongly encourage families to claim freeSchool Meals if they are eligible, as we receive extra funding to help children.If children bring packed lunches we ask that these should be in plastic containers and thatglass bottles (including glass-lined flasks) and cans should be avoided. Please include a cup inthe lunchbox if your child is bringing a drink to school. If your child has a yoghurt, pleasealso pack a spoon.

CurriculumAimsIn planning the curriculum for Orchards Church of England Primary School we have soughtto recognise that each child is an individual entitled to equal regard and opportunity. Ourtask is to develop the potential of each child, to provide learning opportunities where thatchild may take increasing responsibility for his/her learning. In this way we hope todevelop the whole person. We see education as a tool that will bring learning for life.The school’s Foundation Stage policy covers the Nursery curriculum and Reception.National Curriculum is started in Year 1 and continues through the school.The majority of work in English and Maths is in flexible groups. Most lessons contain awhole class teaching element, some group work or the opportunity to work individually or inpairs. Our curriculum is organised based on the chidren's intersests and focuses on thekey skill of learning (from the National Curriculum). This theme-based curriculum allowsfor more cross-curriular links between subjects as well as the progression of skills fromEarly Years through to KS2.Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)The E.Y.F.S. is the stage of education for children from birth to the end of the Receptionyear. It is based on the recognition that children learn best through play and activelearning.Children in the EYFS learn by playing and exploring, being active, and through creative andcritical thinking which takes place both indoors and outside.Children will learn new skills, acquiring new knowledge and demonstrating their understandingthrough 7 areas of learning and development.Children should mostly develop the 3 prime areas first:Communication and languagePhysical developmentPersonal, social and emotional development.These prime areas are those most essential to children’s healthy development and futurelearning.As children grow, the prime areas will help them to develop skills in 4 specific areas:EnglishMathematicsUnderstanding the worldExpressive arts and designThese 7 areas are used to plan children’s learning and activities. The professionals teachingand supporting the children will make sure that the activities are suited to each child’sunique needs. This curriculum is suitable for very young children and it's designed to beflexible, allowing staff to follow each child's unique needs and interests.You can find more information on the Early Years Foundation Stage, which includes theearly learning goals, at www.foundationyears.org.uk.

Theme-based curriculum (KS1 and KS2)The curriculum is all the planned activities that we organise in order to promote learning andpersonal growth and development. It includes not only the formal requirements of theNational Curriculum, but also the range of extra-curricular activities that the school organisesin order to enrich the experience of the children. It also includes the ‘hidden curriculum’,or what the children learn from the way they are treated and expected to behave. Weaim to teach children how to grow into positive, responsible people, who can work and cooperatewith others while developing knowledge and skills, so that they achieve their truepotential. The theme-based curriculum aims to link all subjects together.It may include:Design and Technology, History, Geography, Art, Music, ICT, PE, RE, PSHCE, Mathematics,English, ScienceEnglishReading:- Reading is of fundamental importance in the education process and plays a vitalpart in our curriculum. Children participate, weekly, in Guided Reading sessions and sharedreading sessions.Writing:- A wide range of writing is encouragedthrough a variety of activities aimed atwriting for a purpose. Writing is linked tothemes, when possible, allowing for childrento experience writing in all areas of thecurriculum. These may include diaries,journals, poems, stories, reports, investigations,descriptions, instructions and noticesamong others. Spelling, hand-writing andgrammar are taught as part of the writingprocess. All are taught using a variety oftechniques.Speaking and Listening:- These are important communication skills which we develop througha variety of activities: Science, Art, Music, Drama, Role Play, Games etc.MathematicsIn mathematics we follow the revised primary framework for mathematics. There is an emphasison mental skills and rapid recall of number facts. Teachers draw on a variety of resourcesto support the teaching in the classroom. The use of ICT, models and images andpractical work is integral to all lessons to ensure all children develop an understanding ofconcepts and make progress whatever level they are working at. Children are taught how touse jottings and number lines to support their work. Children are encouraged to use andapply their mathematical skills in other areas of the curriculum.ScienceOur aim is to develop the child's interest and awareness in the world around them, toencourage and develop their natural curiosity. We wish to foster an understanding of naturalphenomena, to use science to solve problems and to develop positive attitudes to safety andthe care of living things. Our work in Science is linked to our theme-based curriculum eachterm and focuses on the scientific process, as well as key knowledge and skills.

Information Communication Technology ICTWithin the progression in ICT capability from Foundation to Year 6. We cover the following areas:-Finding things out – which includes data handling and researchDeveloping ideas and making things happen – which includes Control and Sensing and Modellingand SimulationsExchanging and sharing information – which includes Presenting Ideas and Communicating withothers.All ICT activities are cross curricular (link to the theme) which allow the children to apply theirlearning/skills, including in Maths and English.The children have access to a mobile laptop trolley throughout the week and each class has an allocatedperiod of time in our ICT Suite. The ICT Suite has an interactive white-board, 16 networked computers,a scanner, printers and digital cameras. We are very fortunate that all out classrooms havetheir own interactive whiteboard and several computers, all of which are networked and have accessto the internet. The children are taught to use CD ROMs, a wide variety of software including mostMicrosoft programs, the internet and to email, all of which are accessed through a safe connectionwith the Cambridgeshire County Council portal/website.Our use of ICT is embedded in all areas of the curriculum as a way to encourage inclusive learning andto help prepare children for a society that now depends on technology for leisure, business and safetypurposes.Physical EducationOur aim is that children will enjoy physical activity whilst developing skills and control of their bodies.The children participate in gymnastics, dance and athletics. They play a range of games includingfootball, netball, hockey, rounders and cricket. Football and dance clubs operate during the year. All4Sports coaching teaches PE for years 4, 5 and 6 and operates an extra- curricular activity for bothKey Stages. Swimming lessons are on a rota basis with all children from Year 2 to Year 6 swimmingfor at least a half-term.R.E. and Collective WorshipReligious Education is given in accordance with the Cambridgeshire Agreed Syllabus/ QCA, a copy ofwhich may be viewed at the school on request. Fundamental to the syllabus is the development of theChristian Faith whilst, at the same time, raising children's awareness of other major religions of theworld. We compare and contrast a number of beliefs, all of which are present in our multiculturalsociety. The work is supported by r eligious books and artefacts from the Ely Diocese, which thechildren are taught to handle with care and respect. The 1998 Education Act requires a daily act ofcollective worship. Parents wishing to withdraw their children from the devotional part of the assemblyare invited to discuss the matter with the Headteacher. Representatives from the local churchvisit the school to conduct assemblies and religious education. Other suitable visitors, from otherfaiths, are invited from time to time, to talk to the children and take part in special events.Sex and Health EducationThe Governing Body has adopted the principles of sex education as set out by Cambridgeshire LEAwhich states that sex education should be a continuous and develop-mental part of the learning experienceof each pupil, planned to meet, as far as possible, the readiness, needs and understanding ofthe individual. The Governing Body fully supports the professional judgement of the teaching staffwhen dealing with sensitive issues in accordance with the Cambridgeshire Policy Statement. Parentswho wish their child to be withdrawn from all or part of sex education are entitled to ask for this.

At Orchards C of E School:Children can expect staff: To provide a good learning & teaching experience To always treat you with respect To make time to listen to you To provide safe play experiences To be fair and provide equal opportunities To care for you when you are injured or unwell To support you within our Christian Ethos To be fully inclusive To provide an enhanced curriculum to support you in developing your skillsAll staff commit to: Engaging children in discussions about positive behaviour & attendance Displaying classroom rules Providing opportunities to discuss behaviour issues within PHSCE lessons Providing opportunities for pupils to be involved in… clubs, social skills, playgroundbuddies, circle time and school council Treating all pupils equally, fairly and with respect Providing engaging and creative learning and teaching experiencesStaff can expect children to: Strive to do their best at all times Work hard Ask for help when they don’t understand Listen and follow instructions Talk to an adult when something goes wrong Treat everyone with respect Accept the consequences of their behaviour Support other children within our Christian ethos Come to school every day

Where there is unacceptable behaviour and attendance we will; All incidents are dealt with in a fair and appropriate manner, providing opportunities forself reflection and the motivation to improve.Appropriate sanctions are carried out. These will include; Being moved within the classroom for time out Being moved to another classroom Going to a Phase Leader, Deputy Head or the Head Teacher Loss of minutes playtimeFollowing the Positive Behaviour PolicyChildren will not be left in corridors unsupervisedSupport of behaviour plansSerious and consistent misbehaviour will be closely monitored by the Head Teacher andparents /carers will be informed to discuss the situation. A fixed term exclusion will beenforced in the most serious cases.We do not tolerate bullying or racism and we have a clear anti-bullying policyPoor attendance will lead to parents being invited to meet with the parent support advisorand may lead to the involvement of the Education Welfare Office and possible prosecution.Please come and talk to us if you are experiencing difficulties., we will alwaystry to help.Work with families to find a joint solution.Our Rules for Positive Behaviour & Attendance:We value each other’s work and achievementsWe have high expectations of everybodyWe expect everyone to be polite and thoughtful towards othersWe will not accept threatening or abusive language / behaviour, racist or sexual insultsWe believe it’s right to tell and to ask for helpWe believe it’s never right to fight or hurt someone elseWe do not allow play-fighting - it always ends in tearsHitting back is not allowed - tell an adult who must sort it outDeliberate defiance and disobedience towards any adult will result in serious actionbeing takenChewing gum, sweets and toys etc. are not allowed in school

The School employs a number of additional strategies to ensure the playground issafe & happy. Successful play and lunchtimes are supported by the Wellbeing Team.For more information about their work see the school website or their leaflet.The PLAYGROUND is a happy, safe place when;-Children1. Tell an adult when something serious happens2. Understand that they will be questioned about an incident and maypossibly be sanctioned3. Respect others need to share space4. Follow the rules for positive behaviour5. Use the equipment with respect6. Turn to the playground buddies for help and supportAdults1. Listen to all sides of a story2. Make sure everyone is safe3. Talk in a calm respectful manner4. Follow the procedures for dealing with inappropriate behaviour5. Give reasons for these actionsYear 5 enjoying a campfire at The Spinney.

How Parents & Carers can help support our aims1. Make sure your child attends regularly and arrives on time2. Make sure your child is wearing their uniform and has everything they need forthe day3. Teach them to respect each other, all adults and the teaching environment4. Encourage them to walk away and seek help – not to hit back5. Set a clear example so they have a good role model6. Plenty of sleep, a good breakfast and ‘5 a day’ helps them to learn7. Avoid inappropriate T.V. and DVDs as these can have a negative effect on achild’s behaviour8. Listen to what your child says and ask them about their learning9. Encourage them to talk to an adult before the problem grows10. Finally, come to school events – they can be fun and we need you!Events for families include Science andTechnology Fair, Summer and ChristmasFair… not to mention the bingo andChristmas Performances….Community painting partyNB Information contained in this prospectus is correct at the time of printing, but may besubject to change.All documents referred to in this prospectus may be seen on application during school hours.