THE SCHOOL
The school stands in the middle of the village of Pennant on the
road from Ciliau Aeron to Llanon. It is rural school for infant/junior
children. The school is bi-lingual and is for children of ages
4-11years.The number of children in the school varies from 25
to 35.
ADDRESS
Pennant C.P School,
Pennant,
Llanon,
Ceredigion.
SY23 5PA
Tel : (01545) 570 661 Fax :
E Mail : prif@pennant.ceredigion.sch.uk
Internet site : www.pennant.ceredigion.sch.uk
STAFF
Headteacher : Mr.G.R.Davies
Teacher : Mrs.B.Lloyd
Part-Time Teacher : Mrs.A.Jones
Learning Support Assistant : Mrs.M.R.Lloyd
Learning Support Assistant : Mrs.J.Jones
PERIPATETIC STAFF
Additional Educational Needs : Mrs.J.Davies
Welsh (Peripatetic) : Mrs.A.Evans
Various Instrumental Staff
NON-TEACHING STAFF
School meals : Mrs.L.Davies
Midday Supervisor/ Mrs.M.R.Lloyd
Dinner Money :
Breakfast Club : Mrs.M.Lloyd
Mrs.J.Jones
Cleaner : E.Edkins
GOVERNORS
The school has a full governing body who meet regularly to discuss
school business and who are wholly committed to maintaining and
improving school standards and performance.
The Chairman of the Governing Body is Mr.O. Evans
SCHOOL HOURS
Infants 9:00a.m. - 12:00 noon Junior 9:00a.m.- 12:00 noon
1:00p.m.- 3:30 p.m. 1:00p.m. - 3:30p.m.
Attending school regularly and punctually is important. If your child is absent a telephone call would be appreciated and this should be followed by a letter to explain the absence. The school register closes at 9:30am for the morning session and at 1:30pm for the afternoon session.
ORGANISATION
Children are taught according to their ability in mixed age classes.
Infant classes : Pupils age 4-7 ( Key Stage
1)
Junior Class : Pupils age 7-11 ( Key Stage 2)
The Key Stage one class includes the pupils under five years of
age who follow a separate curriculum that includes six areas of
study. Each teacher is responsible for the general development
of his/her own class and the pupils are taught using varies strategies
as appropriate Some aspects of the work are taught in themes or
as subjects in order to reinforce certain skills in particular
fields. Parents of prospective pupils are invited to arrange an
interview with the Headmaster beforehand.
FRIDAY ARRANGEMENTS
In order to facilitate the implementation of teacher non contact
time, the pupils are transported by bus on Fridays to Llanon school.
The transport is free. The pupils then come together in mixed
school classes and are taught by various teachers from the three
schools. At present the arrangement involves Pennant, Cilcennin
and Llanon schools. Please ask for further information if the
details have not already been explained to you.
PENNANT/CILCENNIN ARRANGEMENTS
The headteacher of Pennant school is also the headteacher in charge
of Cilcennin school. Mr Davies attends Cilcennin school every
Tuesday morning and is replaced in Pennant by a contracted teacher.
This results in close ties with Cilcennin school which are of
benefit to the pupils. Please ask for further information if the
details have not already been explained to you.
FAMILY HOLIDAYS TAKEN DURING TERM TIME
Essentially, parents/guardians should not normally take pupils on holiday in term time, and the policy of Ceredigion Local Education Authority is to actively discourage this. Under the School Attendance (Pupil Registration) Regulations 1995, schools do have a discretionary power to grant leave for the purpose of an annual family holiday during term time, providing there are special circumstances for the request, and that an application is made in advance by the parent/guardian with whom the child normally resides. This leave of absence can only be granted by the headteacher, but please do not expect the headteacher to automatically grant your request. Please also note that only in exceptional circumstances will more than 10 school days absence be granted in any school year.
The headteacher will consider each request for holiday absence most carefully, taking into account the pupil's age, the timing of the holiday, and the pupil's attendance record. A decision will be then be made whether or not to grant permission. If parents do take a child away on holiday without agreed permission from the headteacher, then these absences will be unauthorised and reported back to the Local Education Authority.
If the school does grant a holiday in term time, I would ask you to discuss with the headteacher how you will help your child to catch up with the missing hours of education lost (50 hours for a full 10 days holiday).
SECURITY
All possible precautions are taken where the pupil's and staff's
safety is concerned. The school is surrounded by walls to the
back and appropriate fencing to the front. There is only one entrance
gate which is secure. All visitors to the school must report to
a member of staff on arrival and wear identity badges if appropriate.
A member of staff supervises the pupils on the yard at break times
and at dinner time and the pupils are supervised at the gate at
home time.
Fire drills are practised once a term and reported to the governing
body.
YOUR CHILD AND THE SCHOOL
We are pleased to have your child with us in school. We want every
child to feel happy and secure with the school family. We also
want your child to make as much progress as possible and to reach
their own potential. Every member of staff will do his/her utmost
for each child. Please see us at once if you or your child are
unhappy about anything.
SCHOOL CATEGORY
The school has been designated Category A in accordance with the
Authority and Language policy. This means that Welsh is the main
medium of the school's educational, social and cultural life.
The aim of the Authority's Language Policy is educate the pupils
in order that they are totally bilingual in both Welsh and English
by the time they leave Primary school. According to the language
Policy in Category A schools in Ceredigion, Welsh is the main
medium of life and work in Nursery and Infant phases in order
to establish a sound foundation for the language. There is a statutory
requirement for English to be introduced when the children are
transferred from key stage one to key stage 2.
ADMISSION
The school conforms to the LEA admissions policy which states
that there are three admission dates during the year for children
of school age :
January 1st / April 1st / September 1st
Children applying to the LEA for admission to the school must
have their birthday in the term before these dates. Admission
forms are available from the school. Each pupils' personal details
will be held centrally by the LEA.
DATA COLLECTION
The school collects information about pupils and their parents
/ guardians at admission to school and for specific purposes during
the school year. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and
security of the data collected which is collected. Individuals
have certain rights of access to personal information held on
them and these are outlined in our Fair Processing Notice. A copy
of this leaflet is given to every parent on first admission to
school.
AIMS OF THE SCHOOL
To give individual attention to every child.
To ensure that all children develop and work to the best of their
ability.
To create a happy family atmosphere in an attractive environment.
To ensure a close relationship between the home and the school.
To develop lively, enquiring minds, including the ability to question
and argue rationally and to apply themselves to tasks, they should
also develop physical skills.
To acquire understanding, knowledge and skills to adult life and
employment in a fast changing world.
To use number, language and ICT effectively.
To develop personal moral values, respect for religious values,
tolerance of other races, religions and ways of life.
To understand the world in which they live and the interdependence
of individuals, groups and nations.
To appreciate human achievements.
DICIPLINE AND SCHOOL RULES
1.Within the school, children are encouraged to respect the staff,
their fellow pupils' property.
2.All areas beyond the playground are out of bounds without teacher's
permission.
3.All rubbish must always be put in the bins provided.
4.When children cycle to school they must not ride their bicycles
in the playground.
5.Clothing must be clearly marked with the child's name, especially
coats, trainers and wellingtons.
6.Children are not allowed to eat sweets on the school premises.
7.No glass bottles to be brought to school.
A copy of the school rules is available from the school. The SCHOOL/PUPIL/PARENT CONTRACT is renewed yearly and pupils, parents and staff members are expected to sign this contract as soon as it is issued. If a parent/guardian is concerned about the contract then they should discuss the matter with the Headteacher.
CURRICULUM
The education of pupils under 5 years old is based upon 6 areas
of development which concentrate on developing language, mathematical
and personal skills. In Key Stage 1, the main foundation of education
is set. During this stage the vital skills of communication, literacy
and numeracy are developed. The pupils will learn how to observe,
listen, respond and develop as caring members of our community.
During Key Stage 2 these skills are further developed and the
children are encouraged to embrace self-confidence, to become
independent learners and to develop higher order skills within
a variety of situations. The school aims to develop the National
Curriculum through a cross- curricular policy and to ensure that
a thematic approach is adopted whenever possible. The Curriculum
includes the core subjects, Mathematics, Science, Welsh, English,
and the foundation subjects, Information and Communication Technology,
Technology, History, Geography, Music, Art, Physical Education,
Religious Education and Personal and Social Education.
SUBJECTS
There are files available at the school on request containing
the school's policy and scheme of work on each individual subject.
The National Curriculum documents are also available.
LANGUAGE
As the school is a category A school, Welsh is the main medium
of life and work in the Infant Class but the teachers will be
noting progress in English too. Welsh and English are used in
the Junior Class so that pupils have the opportunity to develop
an equal competence in both languages by the time they leave the
primary school. Special provision is made for pupils who are latecomers
to Ceredigion schools. These latecomers are encouraged to attend
courses at the local Language Centre in order to gain confidence
in the Welsh language.
ADDITIONAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
It is recognised that certain children require special help in
basic subjects. They are given the same opportunity as other children
to integrate completly. Following parental consultation and assessment
of the pupil, the Peripatetic Special Needs Teacher visits the
school to provide assistance.
The school is equipped to deal with pupils who have physical disabilities as there are no steps within the campus and no stairs within the building. However the school is obliged to contact the LEA should a pupil with physical disabilities wish to be admitted in order to assess whether the school is suitable for the needs of the pupil.
HOW TO MAKE A COMPLAINT
Complaints in the first instance should be discussed with the
class teacher and headteacher. Every effort will be made to resolve
the matter informally at school level. If this has not been possible
then the complaint should be sent in writing to the headteacher
who will then inform the Governing body and the clerk to the Governing
body who will then take the matter further.
CLOSURE OF SCHOOL DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER
Every effort is made to keep the school open. If having taken
due consideration of the inherent difficulties and dangers for
school pupils, it is decided to close the school, parents will
be informed and advised to pick up their children.
ABSENTEEISM POLICY
Parents are asked to inform the school if their child is absent
for whatever cause. A letter of explanation should be sent to
the school on the pupils' return.
In cases of continuous absence, the Headteacher must inform the
L.E.A. Official absence forms for pupil leave within term time
are available from the school. Forms should be returned to the
school before the leave begins.
If a child needs to visit the doctor/dentist the child will be
released from the school. Parents are asked not to keep their
child away for the whole day if at all possible.
PARENTS AND THE SCHOOL
It is hoped that you will keep closely in touch with the school
to learn of your child's progress. Please remember that parents
are always welcome to discuss with staff and should you have any
problems, please do not hesitate to contact the class teacher
or Headteacher.
ACTIVITIES
Educational visits are arranged by class teachers to link with
the school theme. The school takes part in Urdd and area competitions
in soccer, netball, rounders, cricket, swimming, cross country
and athletics.
A voluntary contribution may be asked occasionally for certain
trips or visits. The school also runs an after school Urdd club
(Welsh activities).
HOMEWORK
Homework is set three times a week and pupils in years 3, 4, 5
and 6 are expected to learn work for spelling and tables tests.
Apart from this, individual work is set for pupils who have educational
needs. Extra work is set at parent's request. Children in the
Infant class are encouraged to take reading books home regularly
and the class teacher sets homework regularly. Every pupil is
welcome to borrow books from the school but they must be returned
in excellent condition. If items are damaged at home then the
school reserves the right to charge for a replacement item.
Children in the Infant class are encouraged to take reading books
home
regularly and the class teacher sets homework regularly.
ASSESSMENT
Continuous teacher assessment is made. On entry to school the
Infant teacher undertakes the baseline assessment in accordance
with L.E.A guideline. Pupils are assessed by the teacher in year
1, 3 and 5 but at the end of years 2, 4 and 6 pupils are formally
assessed. The data is reported to the LEA. The school holds one
official parent evenings a year (July) and during these meetings
the pupils' individual targets are set and reviewed. A written
report is sent to parents/guardians annually.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
There is regular Christian worship (whole school assemblies are
held three times a week) and a period of time devoted each week
to Religious Education. The local vicar takes a regular assembly.
Parents wishing to withdraw their children from such activities
should contact the Headteacher.
SEX EDUCATION
In Pennant School sex education is taught by being included in
the content of the National Curriculum in general. It is also
taught in the context of Personal and Social Education. Young
children receive information on simple differences between the
sexes but this is done as naturally as possible taking note of
every child's sensitivity. Some children will know much more and
will understand more than usual about reproduction. Such children
have a mature attitude towards the subject. In such cases it is
far better to be honest and open than to try and avoid the subject
or deny any knowledge.
* Please note that any parent who does not wish their child to
be included in any form of sex education must inform the Headmaster
in writing of their wishes.
PASTORAL CARE
The Headteacher is responsible for the internal organisation,
education course, management and discipline of the school. The
class teacher is responsible for the education and welfare of
his/her own class. When a child is ill or has had an accident
the parents are immediately contacted and if there is need one
member of staff will take him/her to the local doctor. No child
is allowed to leave the school early without prior notification
from parents. The staff's responsibility for the children will
begin at 8:45 a.m. and will end at 3:45p.m.
BREAKFAST CLUB
The school runs an Assembly funded breakfast club which is free
for pupils who register. The club serves breakfast between 8 and
8:40 from Monday to Thursday. A light breakfast is served in Llanon
school on a Friday after the pupils have arrived by bus.
CHILD ABUSE POLICY
When there is evidence of child abuse it is the Headteacher's
duty to follow the Authority's guidance by notifying the relevant
departments. The Mid-day meal supervisor is responsible for the
children during the lunch hour and reports immediately to the
Headteacher or teacher in charge if he/she has any concerns.
ACCIDENTS AND MEDICINE
If a child has an accident in school the staff will attend. If
a child needs further attention, parents will be informed. Should
the school be unable to contact a parent, it will be necessary
for a member of staff to take the child to the doctor/hospital
and then inform the parent/guardian.
The Headteacher, teacher and carer all hold current First Aid
certificates.
Teachers are not allowed to give a child any medicine unless the
parent gives permission in writing by filling in the appropriate
form which is available on request
SUPPORT SERVICES
The following Health Services are available:-
Medical inspection.
Eye, hearing and speech tests.
School nurse services.
Educational Psychology Service
SCHOOL MEALS
School meals are provided, with dinner money being collected on
a Monday morning. If you think that you qualify for free school
meals, forms may be obtained from the Local Education Authority.
Children wishing to bring their own packed lunch may do so and
are supervised like others.
At present a dinner costs -
MONEY IN SCHOOL
Children are not encouraged to bring money into school unless
it is for the purpose of paying dinner.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
Pupils are encouraged to wear school uniform.
Girls Boys
School sweatshirt School sweatshirt
Navy skirt/trousers Navy trousers
Red polo shirt (summer) Red polo shirt (summer)
The school Polo shirts and Sweat shirts are ordered through the
school and are supplied by a company called School Trends. Prices
on enquiry.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Appropriate clothes should be worn for P.E.
T-shirt
Shorts
Trainers
*Please note that pupils asked to remove all jewellery before
PE for reasons
of health and safety.
The school provides official sports kit for competition use (except
footwear) and any team kit worn should be washed and returned
to the school as soon as possible.
SPORT
Sport and associated activities are important areas within the
school and are promoted strongly. All pupils have swimming lessons
and physical education lessons. The pupils are transported by
bus once a week to Aberaeron in order to receive a swimming lesson
or a lesson in the local leisure centre. These lessons alternate
for the Key Stages. There is no charge for the bus. The school
also enters all area sports competition and competes in Urdd events
whenever possible. The pupils are encouraged to practice their
skills before competitions if possible. Parents are encouraged
to contribute to these extra practice sessions.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
All pupils are given the same opportunities within the school
regardless of race, ethnic background or religion. We strive to
ensure equal opportunity for every pupil where it is possible
but at times it is necessary to conform with area rules within
certain competitions etc.
SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
The school aims to provide pupils with a wealth of activities
throughout the school year. The main ones are noted below
Aberaeron Sports Association competitions
Urdd Gobaith Cymru club (Tuesday 3:30pm-4:30pm)* and activities
during the year
School concerts/Christmas pantomime
Harvest services held in the school/church /chapel
Literary Competitions
Raising money for local and national charities
Annual St. David's Day Eisteddfod (Singing and recitation performances
by the pupils)
*During the after school Urdd club the pupils are able to purchase
crisps and squash
RESOURCES
The main School resources are listed below-
Computers (7) of which six have internet connection/Colour television
(2) Video(2)/Photocopier/Cassette Players/Camera/Digital camera/Keyboard
Piano/Interactive Whiteboard/Variety of subject based resources
INSTRUMENTAL TUITION
If a pupil displays an interest and an ability then he/she is
encouraged to play instruments and is offered a variety of specialist
teaching which the school pays for. However the school reserves
the right to charge each pupil £30:00 per year for instrumental
lessons in order to purchase extra lesson time. Pupils are expected
to practice regularly and their progress and commitment are reviewed
on a continuous basis.
SCHOOL FUNDS
The Friends of Pennant School runs a club which meets at least
once a term and organises various activities during the year to
raise money for that school. The money is used for the benefit
of your children. We hope that you will support the Friends of
Pennant School. The fund is used for school purposes and is audited
at the end of every school year.