Community Links |
We are aware of the important role the school has to play in the local community. The Governors and the Staff of this school are committed to strengthening the links between the community and school. We greatly value the support of our parents and feel it is vital for the continuing development of the school. Whilst there is the opportunity for parents to formally consult their child's class teacher at two scheduled parental interview sessions, it is recognised that parents may wish to maintain a more detailed reporting process. We therefore actively encourage parents to feel free to consult class teachers on a more regular basis.
The Headteacher is of course always available to discuss any concerns that parents feel require the head's attention.
Over and above these more traditional links we would welcome any parent who would like to become more actively involved in the day-to-day activities within the school, e.g. listening to readers, craft work, painting or helping on school trips. If you are interested in giving some of your time please phone the secretary on 662115. Please note that any volunteers in a classroom now will require a Criminal Records Bureau check.
Family Learning
There are many opportunities for parents and carers to come into school; we have regular curriculum evenings, Family Learning Days with a theme (e.g. French, Crafts) and our Learning Mentor, Mrs Heap, now runs a nationally recognised Parenting Course called “Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities”. Please telephone the school office if your are interested in taking part.
School Trips
Throughout the year each year group will organise trips to supplement work in the classroom. As we are sure you are aware, school budgets are coming under increasing pressure, therefore we rely on voluntary parental contributions in order to make these trips possible. In recent years, due to a change to seat belt legislation, the cost of hiring transport has increased considerably. This has on occasions resulted in the cost of trips being prohibitively expensive and led to visits being cancelled due to the lack of voluntary contributions. We will endeavour to keep costs to a minimum and give the opportunity where possible for payments to be made in stages.
As these trips involve activities in the wider community, good standards of behaviour are required. In addition the staff members need to be able to trust the children to listen carefully to instructions and to carry them out. Many schools do not run trips due to the amount of risk involved. We always do comprehensive risk assessments before each trip and in addition have a policy of not taking children who misbehave.
The Headteacher will take the ultimate decision as to whether a child may go on a trip. This will be taken in conjunction with the class teacher. The parent will be informed and their views also taken into consideration.
