Primary SchoolB...Bonhill Primary School is an award winning school. We have achieved 3 Social Enterprise Awards for our Rice Challenge, Bonhill Buds and Recycled Uniform shop ‘2nd

BONHILL PRIMARY SCHOOLHANDBOOK 2016

School Handbook2016 - 2017

Welcome to

BONHILL Primary SchoolssPPBB


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CONTENTS

PAGE NUMBER

Statement of Commitment/Learning for Life .......................................................................5

School Vision and Values Statement ....................................................................................6

School Information ..........................................................................................................7 - 8

Enterprising Schools .............................................................................................................9

Staffing ........................................................................................................................10 - 11

School Hours and the School Year ..............................................................................11 - 12

Enrolment and Policies for Parents ....................................................................................13

School Improvement, Achievement and Curriculum Areas ........................................14 - 18

Assessment Tracking and Reporting on Pupil Progress ..............................................18 - 20

Equal Opportunities and Social Justice .............................................................................21

Additional Support Needs and Pupil Support Structure ............................................21 - 22

Anti-Bullying Policy .....................................................................................................23 - 24

Homework and School/Community Links ...................................................................24 - 25

Attendance at School ..................................................................................................25 - 26

Extra Curricular Activities ...................................................................................................26

School Discipline ................................................................................................................27

Clothing and Uniform ..................................................................................................28 - 29

Meals/Transport/ Photography ..........................................................................................30

Medical, Health Care and Emergencies .............................................................................31

Parental Involvement and the Parent Council ....................................................................32

Transfer from Primary to Secondary School .......................................................................33

Data Protection ...........................................................................................................33 - 34

Service Standards ...............................................................................................................35

Important Addresses ..........................................................................................................36

Appendix 1 Free School Meals/Clothing Grant Application ......................................37 - 38

Appendix 2 Translation and Interpretation Information ....................................................39

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DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND LEISURE SERVICES

STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT

‘OPPORTUNITY THROUGH LEARNING’ Every person has the right to be educated in a climate in which individuality is recognised and in which everyone feels valued. We are committed to working in partnership with you to provide education of the highest quality.

LEARNING FOR LIFE

We will work together to ensure that everyone in our community is valued and has the opportunity to learn for life and to achieve their potential.

VISION:To enable everyone in West Dunbartonshire to become:

• Successful Learners• Confident Individuals• Responsible Citizens• Effective Contributors

To achieve our vision, we will:• Create and deliver courses, activities and events which will motivate and excite learners• Develop innovative ways to support learning• Value diversity, promote equal opportunities and foster inclusion• Promote partnership and community participation• Value achievement and celebrate success• Continually reflect on and aim to improve the quality of our services

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VISION STATEMENT

Our vision is to provide a happy, caring and stimulating environment in which children will recognise and achieve their fullest potential, where they will make a worthwhile contribution to the local and wider community and are valued as individuals.

VALUES STATEMENT

We support a vision that incorporatesWisdom, Justice, Compassion and Integrity.(These are the words inscribed on the mace of the Scottish Parliament.)

OUR AIMS

• To promote the physical, social, spiritual, mental and emotional health for all pupils and staff.

• To provide a broad and balanced, differentiated curriculum in a secure, just and happy environment in which every person is valued and has equal access to educational opportunity.

• To strive to raise attainment and achievement by providing learning experiences and activities which develop children’s individual talents and abilities enabling them to achieve their potential.

• To promote and extend partnerships with parents, other establishments, external agencies and the wider school community.

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SCHOOL INFORMATION

Bonhill Primary SchoolRaglan Street,Bonhill, AlexandriaG83 9JATel: 01389 773700 Fax: 01389 773709Email: [email protected]

Head Teacher Miss MB SeeryActing Depute Head Teacher Mr Satwant BancePrincipal Teacher Mrs Laura Campbell

Bonhill Primary School is a non denominational, co-educational school serving the catchment area which extends from Dalmonach, in the north, to Strathleven, in the south. Bonhill Primary School has a state of the art flagship building which can accommodate children from Primary 1 through to Primary 7. At present, we have 276 children on the school roll and we have a maximum capacity of approximately 300 pupils. Parents should note that the working capacity of the school may vary dependent upon the number of pupils at each stage and the way in which classes are organised.

The school has 10 spacious and modern classrooms as well as an ICT suite, Library and Hall. Due to a growing demand for places within the school, we have had to utilise our ICT Suite as a classroom. Our corridors are spacious and also form part of the ‘break out’ area which extends the learning and teaching area of every classroom. An important and integral feature of each classroom is the teaching wall where ICT and technology help to engage and motivate our learners. The learning environment is also enhanced by our inner courtyard which is a classroom, outdoor dining area, gardening area and where we house our chicken pen. The playground area features an all weather pitch, soft play areas and a variety of fixed play equipment. We have 2 playhouses and a pirate ship situated in our infant playgrounds and an outside classroom, bouldering wall and poly tunnel situated in the senior playground. We also have an outside pizza oven to enhance our outdoor learning environment as well as established vegetable plots where we grow vegetables which we sell to the local community and use in the school kitchen. We also have 4 hens which are looked after by the children and (like the vegetables) we sell the eggs to

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the local community. Outdoor Learning is an important feature of the learning experience enjoyed by our children and each term we have a day where the learning is focused on the outdoors. All children and staff participate in this and we have a variety of wet weather suits to protect the children. There is no such thing as bad weather – only bad clothing! We are extremely lucky to have a 21st century building that helps us prepare our children for a 21st century workplace. Parents are very welcome and I hope that you are as impressed with our excellent surroundings as we are.

We consider ourselves to be an open school in so much as we aim to be available for parents/carers whenever possible and we make it a priority to be able to meet requests for appointments and meeting at times when requested. We try hard to do so even at very short notice and when this is not possible we make arrangements to meet with parents as soon as it is possible. Teachers always make themselves available to speak to parents at the end of the school day when all children have safely been placed back into their parent or guardian’s care.

Opportunities are given regularly through our newsletters and in other forms of communication to comment on school routines and practices and to give parents the opportunity to offer suggestions with regard to the curriculum. Parents can find a range of information about schools on the council website: www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools

All educational establishments within West Dunbartonshire Council are members of a Local Learning Community (LLC). These LLCs are made up of one secondary school and its associated primary schools and include a number of Early Education and Childcare Centres and Partnership nurseries. Bonhill Primary School is a member of the Vale of Leven Learning Community.

The five Learning Communities in West Dunbartonshire have been established as part of West Dunbartonshire’s educational improvement strategy. This strategy has a clear focus to raise educational aspirations, achievement and attainment of all pupils while improving the skills and knowledge of all staff involved in the education of children and young people.

Miss Seery, Head Teacher, represents Bonhill Primary School on the Vale of Leven Learning Community; however other members of staff may attend meetings in support of improvement work. The Vale of Leven Local Learning Community is led by Miss Julie McGrogan, Educational Services Manager who is assisted by Mr Alan Graham, Quality Improvement Officer.

Updates of the work of LLCs will be made available through parent council meetings and through Standards and Quality reporting.

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ENTERPRISING SCHOOLS

Bonhill Primary School is an award winning school. We have achieved 3 Social Enterprise Awards for our Rice Challenge, Bonhill Buds and Recycled Uniform shop ‘2nd Time Around’. We are a member of Enterprising Schools and have several of our initiatives highlighted as case studies on their website. Miss Spence and Mrs Campbell lead this with the Bonhill Primary School Enterprise Company.

To date, we have been awarded 3 Green Flags for our work on sustainability across the school. Mrs Mitchell leads this with the Eco Committee.

We have gained Level 1 of the RRS scheme and are currently working towards Level 2. Mr Bance leads this with the Rights Respecting Ambassadors.

We have a Fairtrade School status and Mrs Campbell leads this across the school.Our up and coming Parent Café is our newest venture and this will begin in January. The Pupil Council works with Mrs Campbell in taking this forward.

We were awarded the Silver Award for our Sports activities recently.Mrs Riach leads this across the school with theBonhill Primary School PE Committee.

Save the Children Community Champion Award

On Thursday 15th October 2015 Mrs Jennifer Connelly and I were invited to accept the Community Champion Award on behalf of the school and FASTworks Bonhill from Save the Children. HRH Princess Anne is the President of the charity and we were delighted to be presented to her before accepting the award on behalf of everyone who is part of FAST and FASTworks Bonhill. Jennifer and I had a great day and it was quite an honour to have everyone’s hard work recognised and celebrated in such a special way. Families and Schools Together (FAST) has completed three successful cycles in the school since 2012.

School Sports Award

Fairtrade

Rights Respecting School

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STAFFING

Bonhill Staff Head Teacher .......................................................................... Miss Maria B SeeryDepute Head Teacher ...............................................................Mr Satwant BancePrincipal Teacher ................................................................... Mrs Laura CampbellMrs Campbell assists in the management and support of the Senior Department.Mrs McDonald assists in the management and support of the Infant Department.

Class TeachersP 1a .............................................................................................. Mrs Linda WylieP 1b .......................................................................................Miss Laura ArmitageP 2 .............................................. Miss Beth Hawthorn and Mrs Louise McDonald P 2/3 ........................................................................................ Miss Cheryl Collins P 3 ....................................................................................... Mrs Kirstie McGregorP 4 ..................................................................................Miss Clair Louise SpenceP 4/5 ..........................................................................................Miss Anna BrittainP 5 .......................................................................................... Miss Linda McGhee P 6a ..................................................................................... Miss Rachael McHardP 6b .......................................................................................... Mrs Fiona MitchellP 7 ......................................................................................... Mrs Laura Campbell

Flexibility ...................................................................................... Mrs Sarah Riach Miss Claire McGinley

Staff DevelopmentThrough In-Service Training and Courses, all staff continually develop their knowledge and understanding of classroom teaching and learning and the primary curriculum.

Our School Mascots – Bonnie and Benny Hill

Area Network Support ........................Mrs Anthea Cleary (1 and 1/3 day weekly)Brass Instructor ............................................ Mr Lorne Cowieson (1/2 day weekly)Clerical Assistants ............................... Mrs Pamela Vincent and Miss Megan RaeLearning Assistants ...................... Mrs Lorraine Gillespie, Mrs Eleanor Davidson, Mrs Anne Hepburn, Mrs Lorna Harkins and Mrs Emma ArnoldJanitor ...................................................................................Mr Campbell Arendt

The total full time teaching staff equivalent is 14.32 FTE


In addition, the following staff are employed by Contract Services and the School Crossing Patrol.

Cleaners .....................................................................Mrs Mary McMurrich (sup.), ........................................................ Ms Paula Caird and Miss Stephanie DohertyLollipop Lady ........................................................................Mrs Susan McDonaldCatering Assistants ...................................... Mrs Sharon Neil, Mrs Jackie Gildea, Mrs Annette Bishop, Miss Michelle Jackson, and Mrs Susan McDonaldPupil and Family Support .................................................... Ms Norma WightmanEducational and Psychologist ...................................................Ms Frances Cairns

SCHOOL HOURS AND THE SCHOOL YEAR

Opening ................................................................9.00amInterval ...............................................10.30am - 10.45amLunch .................................................. 12.15pm - 1.00pmClose .....................................................................3.00pm

Primary 1 children attend school for mornings only until Monday 29th August 2016 when they attend for the whole day.

N.B. The school is not open to pupils before 9.00 a.m. and, on wet days, parents should send pupils in no earlier than 8.50 am. On very wet days, the janitor will ring the bell at 8.45 am to allow the pupils into the classrooms. This is, of course, dependent on having teachers in place to supervise.

BREAKFAST CLUB

There is a breakfast club in our dining hall from 8.15am. This costs35p for children payable on the day (children who are entitled to aclothing grant pay 20p).

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SCHOOL YEAR 2016—2017

Autumn Term: Block 1 & Block 2

First Term for Pupils Re-open Friday 19th August 2016Primary 2-7 - 9am, Primary 1 - 9.15am

September Weekend Close Friday 23rd September 2016 and Monday 26th September 2016

Re-open Tuesday 27th September 2016

Mid Term Close Monday 17th October 2016 to Friday 21st October 2016

Re-open Monday 24th October 2016

Close Friday 23rd December 2016

Spring Term: Block 3

Second Term for Pupils Re-open Monday 9th January 2016

Mid Term CloseMonday 6th February 2017 andTuesday 7th February 2017

Re-open Wednesday 8th February 2017

Easter Close Monday 3rd April 2017 to Monday 17th April 2017

Re-open Tuesday 18th April 2017

Summer Term: Block 4

Third Term for Pupils

May Day Close Monday 1st May 2017

Re-open Tuesday 2nd May 2017

May Weekend Close Friday 26th May 2017 and Monday 29th May 2017

Re-open Tuesday 30th May 2017

Summer Close Friday 30th June 2017


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ENROLMENT

When a child is of age to begin primary school, the parents will be invited to visit their local school for the purpose of registration. Notice of registration, dates and times will appear in the local press in January of each year. Once your child is enrolled for education at Bonhill Primary School, you and your child will be invited to our Primary 1 Information Sessions in April and May. We begin a Transition programme with our feeder nurseries in October which has as its focus Outdoor Learning and Forest Schools’ approaches to learning. The sessions in April and May are designed to ensure that you are well informed about the school and they will help your child to become familiar and relaxed about their new school. While you attend the information sessions your child will enjoy activities in their new classroom with their fellow pupils and their teacher. Parents of older children seeking a place in the school should arrange an appointment with the Head Teacher.

NURSERY-PRIMARY LIAISON

We work very closely with our local pre-five establishments. Links have also been set up with Dalmonach, Jamestown, Ferryfield, Ladyton, Carousel and Riverside Nurseries. These Nurseries transfer pupil reports to us and a member of the Bonhill staff visits the nurseries during the spring and summer term. This ensures that our Primary 1 pupils have a smooth transfer into Bonhill Primary School. The teachers from Bonhill visit the pre-five establishments to work with the children and the nursery staff come to Bonhill Primary School to help settle the children into their new learning environment. To enrol a child of any age during the term, please contact the head teacher.

POLICIES FOR PARENTS AND CARERS

The local education authority has produced policies for parents which provide information for new parents at school. Copies are available from the school or can be accessed from the council website. In Bonhill Primary School we have produced policies for different aspects of school life. These are available from the school and are available on request.


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SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT

Self evaluation, collegiate planning and personal and corporate responsibility are essential drivers in three things. These are: the continued review of Bonhill Primary School’s work; the implementation of its improvements and the shaping of its future direction. Through its commitment to self evaluation for continued improvement there is an ethos of a shared commitment amongst staff where creativity, innovation, critical reflection and enquiry are nurtured and encouraged.

There are consistent approaches throughout the school which are supported by policies and guidelines which are reviewed on a regular basis and reflect current local and national advice. This ensures that there is consistency in the promotion of the highest standards and success for all learners.

All staff are committed and focussed on the development of the children’s capacities and attitudes to learning through learning and teaching approaches which involve engaging, enterprising, challenging and motivational learning experiences in indoor and outdoor learning.

The staff are committed to school improvement and to the raising of standards and regard this as of paramount importance. They are committed to ensuring that there is equality of opportunity and access for all learners.

All members of the school community interact productively in learning across the school. Greater partnerships have been developed over the year through initiatives like the Work Experience, Families and SchoolsTogether Programme, FASTworks and our Transition Policy. In all aspects of school life, the Head Teacher is committed to motivating and inspiring others through her example, drive and daily interactions. Further information on our achievements and the school improvement agenda can be found in

our Standards and Quality report for this session. A copy of this is available in the school reception area. The school is also proud to highlight its achievements in the local media and we are frequently featured in the local press and Your Radio.


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THE CURRICULUM

At the heart of a Curriculum for Excellence lies the aspiration that all children should develop their capacities as successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors. West Dunbartonshire Council’s priority for Curriculum for Excellence is to ensure effective teaching and learning. The Curriculum for Excellence challenges us to look at innovative and exciting ways to deliver the curriculum to our children. While there are specific programmes for each area of the curriculum much of it can now be delivered through cross-cutting themes and interdisciplinary studies and projects. Curriculum for Excellence enables professionals to teach in a creative way, to work together, plan together and to create shared learning experiences. It balances the importance of knowledge and skills. It ensures that pupils have opportunities for choice and that they are active participants in their own learning. There will be new ways of assessing progress and ensuring that children achieve their potential.

CURRICULUM AREAS

Health and Well BeingWe are a health promoting school and encourage children to develop and apply their knowledge to make informed decisions and choices in order to improve their physical, emotional and social wellbeing and pursue healthy lifestyles. Each term we have a specific health focus across all stages e.g. personal safety; anti-bullying; drugs awareness and physical fitness. These are often linked to a particular event or issue going on in the wider world. There are opportunities for pupils to develop a sense of responsibility towards health promotion and a commitment to looking after their own health. In interdisciplinary themes each term, health and wellbeing is always given importance and learners’ experiences are planned carefully including assessment of skills development in this area of the curriculum.Children have two hours of PE/fitness per week with their class teacher. Where appropriate additional activities take place matched to themes such as Commonwealth and Olympic Games, etc.There are programmes of work covering health, personal & social development and physical education which are used to plan health focus days and ensure a suitable breadth of study is undertaken across the stages. Teachers also plan collaboratively with colleagues to ensue that there is a progression of skills developed as well as a good variety and range of activities or learning experiences. Children at particular stages in the school have also benefited from working with Sports Development Officers in a range of sports such as: P 2 Football; P 4 Rugby; P 5 Hockey; P 6 Sportshall Athletics and Swimming; P 7 Swimming and football.


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English Language and LiteracyLiteracy offers children an essential passport to learning across the curriculum and prepares children to take a full and active role in society and work.Learning through language develops children’s ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings. Children develop skills in listening, talking, reading and writing which are all essential for learning, work and life.In Bonhill Primary School we have language and reading programmes. We also have a writing programme and a talking and listening programme. We introduced our new planning for literacy and English which has been developed in accordance with a Curriculum for Excellence for each of the levels and allows for a specific focus on skills development within each aspect of literacy. Learning experiences in reading are planned ensuring that pupils work individually, paired; in cooperative groups and sometimes in reciprocal reading groups. Children are encouraged to engage in functional and personal writing experiences. Writing is usually linked to the theme and pupils are knowledgeable about their targets in writing. They often engage in self and peer assessment experiences and Teachers plan collaboratively for interdisciplinary themes where literacy has a major focus such as our unit studies.We have developed our own spelling programme from Primary 3 through to Primary 7 which has helped to ensure that there is effective skills development and a consistency of approach. Spelling homework is usually given each week for completion. Across the school the children also learn another language – in Bonhill it is French. This is built in to the daily life of the school to ensure that the children are immersed in another language. In Primary 6 and Primary 7 children are also given the opportunity to begin learning a third language. Each class is given one period a week for German which encourages children to communicate and see the value of being competent in another language. This year we have also benefited from the support of a German language assistant. This has allowed usto extend German to the children in Primary 4 and 5. Mathematics and Numeracy

Through the study of mathematics children develop essential numeracy and mathematical skills which they can apply in different contexts and in the world of work. Mathematics is a key element in engineering, science, technology and business.

We use TeeJay Maths as our core maths scheme for Primary 1 through to Primary 7. However other resources and approaches are used depending on the individual needs of each child. We try to ensue that maths lessons have an appropriate balance of oral maths, practical and active experiences, consolidation and practice. Great emphasis is placed on interactive and active leaning. Some of the mathematics curriculum is delivered through our interdisciplinary learning themes and some is developed though our core programme. We ensure there is progression of skills through planning learning experiences


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and assessments collaboratively with colleagues. In term 4 each year we devote part of our maths experiences to Financial Education and the children experience this through a Careers focus week.

Social StudiesEngaging in social studies allows children to develop an understanding of their world by learning about other people, their values and cultures, in different times, places and circumstances and how their environment has been shaped. People in place, people in the past and people in society.

Children learn about human achievements, conflicts and environmental issues, both in a local and global context.

In Bonhill Primary School we engage in social studies within our inter-disciplinary themes. In term 3 we focus on learning about people in the past. Each class studies a particular period in history and learns to compare/contrast and explore differences and similarities whilst also engaging in trips out with the school.

Expressive ArtsExpressive arts include art and design, drama, dance & music. Through the expressive arts

curriculum children are given a variety of opportunities to enjoy creative and imaginative activities and to express themselves in different ways.

Expressive arts can also be a forum for children to bring enjoyment and entertainment to others through shows, concerts and assemblies.

Throughout the year children in Bonhill Primary School are given opportunities to perform before their peers and parents. Our children will also engage in a drama performance during the session at Christmas time and later in the year.

SciencesSciences include study in biological, chemical, physical and environmental contexts. We are currently developing a new core programme in science matched to a Curriculum for Excellence. Learning through science enables children to investigate their environment, develop an understanding of scientific contexts and achievements as well as recognise the impact that science makes on our lives. We are currently developing STEM approaches to science, technology, engineering and maths through interdisciplinary learning.


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TechnologiesThe use of ICT is an integral part of education. All classes have a range of ICT equipment and software covering many of the curricular areas and these are used to enhance teaching and learning. Classes have an interactive whiteboard fitted which can be used throughout the day and

across the curriculum. To participate fully in modern society children need to be skilled and knowledgeable users of technology as well as be able to assess the impact of this technology in society. We have a school website which helps to inform parents about the life and work of the school. Our Positive Behaviour Policy is based upon Class Dojo which is an interactive reward system which motivates and engages the children. Parents can connect to this by downloading a free app on to their smart phone. Thanks to the app they can keep informed about their child’s successes throughout the day and they can be informed about what the children have been learning about within the classroom. We also subscribe to

Linguascope and this also has a free app which parents can download to keep informed about what their children are learning in the French language through interactive games. Religious and Moral EducationThis includes learning about Christianity as well as other world religions. We are developing our approach to teaching and learning within the religious education curriculum. Children across the school have opportunities to learn about sex education and family relationships.

Parents do have the right to withdraw their child from religious education. Please speak to the head teacher if you wish this to happen. Parents from ethnic minority religious communities may request that their children be permitted to be absent from school in order to celebrate recognised religious events. Only written requests detailing the proposed arrangements will be considered. Appropriate requests will be granted on not more than three occasions in any one school session and the pupil noted as an authorised absentee in the register.

AssessmentContinual assessment of the curriculum is carried out by the head teacher and staff. Each teacher is constantly monitoring and assessing the progress of the pupils. This is done through:

• observation • oral feedback • written feedback • class progress records • standardised tests

A key feature of assessment is formative assessment. Formative assessment is the teacher and child working together to support learning.


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It is about teachers giving effective feedback to pupils and the active involvement of children in their learning. Oral progress reports, including test results are given to each parent at the parent-teacher interviews. However, parents are most welcome to call at the school or to telephone the head teacher at any time to arrange an appointment to discuss their child’s assessment information or progress.

TrackingSelf evaluation is a key feature in teaching and learning. Both staff and children engage in self and peer evaluations to continually inform and improve standards across the school. Pupil performance is tracked regularly by the class teacher and head teacher. Teachers meet with the

Level Stage

Early The pre-school years and P1 or later for some

First To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some

Second To the end of P7, but earlier for some

Third & Fourth

S1 to S3, but earlier for some. The fourth level broadly equates to Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Level 4. The fourth level experiences and outcomes are intended to provide possibilities for choice and young people’s programmes will not include all of the fourth level outcomes

Senior Phase S4 to S6 and college or other means of studyProgress within a curriculum level will be described as developing, consolidating or secure.


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head teacher to ensure pupils are on track with their learning. Pupils are encouraged to have a knowledge of the level that they are working on. Class teachers and the head teacher keep records of pupil progress within levels. Pupils talk about their learning journey and have knowledge of their personal targets.

ReportingThere are two official parent/carer evenings in Bonhill Primary School and an annual written report. We also send home to parents a Monthly Report which keeps you informed about certain aspects of your child’s learning, engagement, motivation and attendance. As indicated above, we also use Class Dojo to keep

parents informed. Curriculum for Excellence is organised into different levels and your child’s report will tell you about their progress in the levels throughout the year. The written report will include information and teacher comments about:

(a) the breadth of learning your child has experienced within curricular areas.(b) the level of challenge planned for your child to ensure he/she is achieving

his/her full potential and being supported appropriately.(c) how well your child can apply learning in new and unfamiliar contexts.

Article 24Every child has the right to goodquality health care, to clean water, nutritious food and a clean environment, so that they will stay healthy. Rich counties should help poorer countries achieve this.

Article 29Every child has the right to an education. Education should teach children to respect their parents, their own culture and the culture of others.

Children have a responsibility to:

Make healthy food choices and to eat lunch

Brush teeth and keep themselves clean

Give to charity and support others

Show good manners and respect others

Respect and listen to adults

Understand differences and similaritites between people

Adults have a responsibility to:

Look after us at home and in school. Provide us with food/shelter

Look after us and keep us safe

Help us understand about other cultures

Teach us and show us how to respect others by setting example

Help us with our learning

Show me and others respect



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Equal opportunities and social justiceAll members of the School Community are treated equally and given equal opportunity to access teaching and learning to each person’s potential. Every member of staff has a responsibility to ensure the council’s Equal Opportunities Policy is adhered to.

Forest Schools and Outdoor LearningA particular feature to the school’s ethos is our passion and commitment to outdoor learning and Forest school. Forest school is a long-term sustainable approach to outdoor learning. It builds self-esteem and independence in children and young people through the exploration and the experiences in the natural world. There are countless pieces of international research that that highlight the importance of children spending time in natural outdoor spaces. There are physical, mental, social and behavioural benefits for this approach to learning. It also increases the children’s ability to risk assess as well as having many social benefits. We use Forest School and outdoor Learning approaches as part of our transition programme. We also have 2 members of staff undertaking training so that this approach can be developed throughout the school. Miss Armitage and Mrs Riach are responsible for developing this in the Infant and Upper primaries. They make links with other areas of the curriculum such as Eco School, Science, Enterprise as well as literacy and numeracy. Each term Mrs Riach plans and delivers whole school Outdoor Learning days across the whole of the school and these have sustainability and Eco themes. We also have children undertaking the John Muir Award at stages and again, Mrs Riach with Mrs Mitchell have both been pioneering this development in the Upper School.

Rights respecting schoolsRights Respecting Schools recognise achievement in putting the rights of the child at the heart of a school’s planning, policies, practice and ethos. A rights-respecting school not only teaches about children’s rights but also models rights and respect in all its relationships: between teachers/adults and pupils, between adults and between pupils. This provides a clear link for pupils between building up their rights-respecting school, understanding their rights and the need for the children’s rights to be realised everywhere. Children and young people in rights-respecting schools develop a stronger sense of the need to act for global justice. Bonhill Primary School is a Rights Respecting School since achieving its Rights Respecting School Level 1 Award. We are currently working towards level 2 of this award. We are focusing on Articles 24 and 29.

Additional support needsSchool are required by law to ensure they are providing for children and young people who require additional help with their learning. The Additional Support for Learning Act (ASL) 2009 requires that from 14 November 2010 schools improve on how we communicate with parents/carers on all aspects of the ASL Act. Detailed information on the changes resulting from the

legislation is available to all parents and recent publications on supporting learning needs are available in the school foyer.

Supporting learners requiring additional supportStaff monitor the progress of children requiring support and provide learning materials suitable to their level of development. All schools in West Dunbartonshire have a staged


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intervention process for identifying pupils with support needs. Some pupils have support plans to help them with particular aspects of their learning. Parents will always be informed about this and will be invited to discuss support needs and plans with the head or depute head teacher at key times during the year.

Any parent/carer concerned about their child’s learning is welcome to visit the school to discuss their concerns. Information is available about additional support on the council website and is also available in the school reception area. Schools also have the support of Psychological Services. The role of the educational psychologist is to lend support by interviewing, testing and suggesting suitable work and materials for children whose learning or behaviour is causing concern. Parents will always be consulted if a referral to the psychologist is being considered. We aim to ensure that the learning experiences for all our pupils are appropriate. Our approach to embrace the national policy of Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is to make sure that we work effectively, and communicate successfully with parents and different agencies to ensure maximum benefits for pupils.

Pupil Support StructureAll staff in the school are required to be aware of child protection issues and are provided with regular information on child protection policy and procedures. The school maintains close working relationships with all other relevant agencies to ensure appropriate information is shared and that professionals from various agencies work collaboratively for the wellbeing of the children and young people. All staff have a responsibility to report concerns regarding the welfare or safety of a child or young person to the head teacher. If the head teacher or the depute head is of the view that there may be grounds for concern they will immediately contact the duty senior social worker and advise them of the circumstances. In Bonhill Primary School we aim to get it right for every child (GIRFEC). Our policy is to support pupils with all aspects of their learning and to ensure that parents and pupils access support from different agencies out with education such as health, social work and the wider community groups associated with supporting vulnerable pupils. We try to ensure that our pupils are safe, healthy, achieving, attaining, nurtured, included and fulfilling their potential. We work in partnership with parents and carers and ensure that our pupils have an identified person that they can speak to, relate to and be supported by. We try to remove barriers to learning and at all times consider how we can best include and support individual pupils so that they continue to achieve.


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ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

In Bonhill Primary School we aspire to keep pupils feeling happy and safe at school. We aim to cooperate, help and support each other.

Aims of our anti-bullying policy • That all staff, pupils and parents understand what bullying is and know exactly what action

to take if an incident of bullying takes place in school. • That all staff, pupils and parents know that bullying will not be tolerated in any form in

Bonhill Primary School. • That pupils and parents know they are encouraged to speak up about incidents of bullying

and not permit bullying to exist through secrecy and silence. • That all staff, pupils and parents know that any incidents of bullying will be dealt with quickly

and effectively when reported. • That our anti-bullying policy is recognised as part of a wider policy on ethos which

encompasses promoting positive behaviour, equal opportunities, child protection, promoting a healthy school and anti-racism.

• That our anti-bullying ethos can be highlighted in a number of curricular areas e.g. R.E., PSD, Drama, Art, Language

• That the bully him/herself knows that he/she will be accountable for his/her behaviour.

What is Bullying?Bullying can take many forms. In all forms it constitutes an abuse of power with the intention of hurting the victim and inflicts various degrees of misery on the victim.

Neither bullies nor victims can be stereotyped. Though most victims are children who are vulnerable and most bullies have either been bullied themselves or have other emotional problems.

Forms of Bullying • Verbal name calling, taunting, sarcasm, making nasty comments, making

inappropriate personal comments about a child or his/her family on more than a one-off basis. This is the most common form of bullying.

• Physical punching, kicking, pushing, pinching, spitting or using any other form of violence. A spontaneous fight over a dispute or children playing together in a rough way does not constitute bullying.

• Social by isolating or excluding a child from games or play on a regular basis • Material by taking possessions, dinner monies, sweets through extortion • Emotional by threatening a child, by using threatening gestures or by generally

belittling a child on a regular basis


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Procedures to Deal Effectively with Bullying • Regular talks and updates on bullying and its effects at weekly school assemblies • Focus on bullying and its effects as integral part of PSD • The display of anti-bullying posters with in the school • Parent updates on school policy in newsletters • Setting up of a central bullying box where complaints can be posted • Continuation of building up promoting positive behaviour within school, including all reward systems already in place • Encouraging children to speak to an adult in school

HOMEWORK

Children will be encouraged to extend the skills taught in school through further practice and research at home. The time spent on this should vary according to the age and development of the child.

Homework might be set as follows: - phonics, spelling, wordlists; - practice in mathematical processes; - reading of novels/short stories; - practice in language conventions; - home reading book; - research/information collection; - practice in skills of physical education; - practice in musical activities; - voluntary work, i.e. writing stories, poems, sketching, etc.

As homework is for the benefit of your child you are asked to cooperate by seeing that the work is completed and the homework signed. It is not the teacher’s responsibility to insist that homework is completed. Parents and pupils have this responsibility. Concerns about homework should be communicated to the head or depute head teacher and an appointment with the class teacher will be organised.


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SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY LINKS

The school is an integral part of the community and we encourage the children to realise that they are members of that community and have a duty towards it.

We ensure that we develop our practices as a school community. We support each other in school and encourage pupils to support each other. Pupils have opportunities to join different groups and are encouraged to develop leadership skills and voice their opinions, leading to change and new initiatives e.g. eco group; pupil council; Rights Respecting Schools group; lunch monitoring group etc.

The children are encouraged to use community centres and other local facilities.

The school has frequent visits from a wide range of support agencies, local businesses and other visitors to support teaching and learning. In addition children visit local businesses and attractions to enhance the curriculum.

ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL

Section 30 of the 1980 Education Act lays a duty on every parent of a child of ‘school age’ to ensure that their child attends school regularly.

Parents are asked to inform the school by letter or telephone if their child is likely to be absent for some time, and to give the child a note on his or her return to school confirming the reason for absence. If your child is absent from school, a member of the clerical staff will telephone you to ask why your child is not at school. We sometimes use pupil and family support workers to visit families at home if no contact has been made.

The Policies for Parents document “Achievement through Attendance” is available to all parents from their children’s school and outlines the importance of good attendance. If your child does not arrive at school in the morning you will receive a phone call to either yourself or next point of contact. If no contact is made then a pupil and family support worker will be sent to the family home. The reasons for this are to ensure pupil welfare.

The Scottish Government has now issued guidance to all local authorities indicating that family holidays taken during term time should be categorised as unauthorised absence (curricular no. 5/03). Clearly with no explanation from the parent the absence is unauthorised.


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Only in very exceptional circumstances will it be possible for the head teacher, with the approval of the local authority, to authorise a family holiday during term time.

No child is allowed to leave school during school hours without the permission of the head teacher. Therefore, if it is essential for a child to leave class, for example for doctor, hospital or dental appointment, an explanatory letter or the appropriate card should be sent in and the child collected from school.

In the interests of safety no child will be allowed to leave the school unaccompanied to keep an appointment or to meet a parent. The parent or guardian must come to the school for the child.

No child will be allowed to be sent home in a taxi within the school day for any reason.

The school will monitor children’s absences, telephone parents to ask for explanation of absence or send pupil and family support workers if a child is not at school and when necessary i.e. when absences are below an acceptable level without reasonable explanation, will employ steps outlined in the Attendance Policy. Excess absence means that the child/family will be referred to the local education authority Attendance Review Committee.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Extra curricular activities are available at different times in the school year. Our Primary 7 pupils spend one week at Ardentinny Outdoor Education Centre.

Swimming, rugby, football, hockey, dance, athletics, netball and games clubs are offered to Primary 1 - 7 at different times throughout the year and are organised by school staff and also sports coaches. During the day sports coaches actively try to promote pupil attendance at evening clubs.

Some of our senior pupils have engaged in charity fundraising activities using their own initiative, creativity and skills. They have then consulted with each other on how best to utilise funds raised.

We have tried to introduce our senior pupils to the world of work by engaging them in Work Experience in the School Kitchen.

All of our children continue to develop our school grounds and are working towards achieving our fourth green flag for eco schools. We have also been supported by volunteers from the Environment Trust as they support us in developing our school grounds to support Outdoor Learning. This work has been greatly supported and initiated by our very active parent council.

All classes will have the opportunity to take part in a number of visits and outings related to themed learning. Some of these visits will be within local or wider community.


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SCHOOL DISCIPLINE

In our school the relationship between the pupils and the staff is similar to that between his/her own parent/guardian. As in the home, self discipline and self control are emphasised throughout the school. We strive to lead the children to an understanding of social interaction, co-operation and resolution of conflict. We employ solution oriented and restorative approaches after disagreements. We try hard to be inclusive in our approach, ensuring that pupils are treated fairly.

An adult presence is provided in playgrounds at break times in terms of the Schools (Safety and Supervision of Pupils) (Scotland) Regulations, 1990.

However, as in the home, children may need to be disciplined on occasions within the school. Sanctions include: • non-verbal cues, silences, disapproving gestures, • verbal reprimands to individuals, group, class • threat of movement to another seat in class • movement of seat • withdrawal of privileges • additional work at interval and lunchtime • after repeated warnings staff will begin to record incidents • after three recorded incidents or sooner if the teacher is concerned, there will be discussion

of the child’s behaviour between the class teacher and the head teacher • intervention by head teacher and oral warning of parental involvement • parental involvement through visit to the school to discuss the child’s behaviour • contract drawn up between the home, child and the school when appropriate • if the child continues to misbehave, the head teacher may exclude the child

We believe that through good home-school relationships good discipline can be established and maintained. Pupils are encouraged to show respect for self and others. Staff model good relationships and positive interactions with others. Pupils are treated fairly; with respect and pupils are encouraged to treat adults and others with respect. Staff seek and utilise different approaches to encourage pupils to behave positively, show high levels of motivation and a positive work ethic.


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CLOTHING AND SCHOOL UNIFORM

Pupils attending schools within West Dunbartonshire Council are required to wear a school uniform. Our contact with parents in recent years has also made us aware that the vast majority are in favour of uniform. The wearing of school uniform helps promote the identity of the school in the local community and helps create an ethos of sharing and pride in the school. Most people tend to form opinions about a school by the appearance of the pupils. West Dunbartonshire Council supports the wearing of the uniform in all of its schools because it:

• improves school security by making it easier to identify intruders • builds a sense of identity and belonging to the school • is cheaper to buy than other clothing which pupils may wish to wear • gives pupils an equality of appearance, thereby discouraging competition • encourages school discipline and a work ethic amongst pupils

The form of dress which are unacceptable in school are items of clothing which: • potentially encourage faction (such as football colours); • could cause offence (such as anti-religious symbolism or political slogans) • could cause health and safety concerns, such as loose fitting clothing, sportswear made of

flammable material, and body piercings/jewellery for PE and sport; • could cause damage to flooring; • carry advertising particularly for alcohol or tobacco: • could be used to inflict injury on other pupils or be used by others to do so. • are valuable or expensive items of clothing or jewellery which present a security issue for the

school

Parents receiving income support, family credit, housing benefit or council tax rebate will normally be entitled to monetary clothing grants for their children. Approval of any requests for such grants made by parents in different circumstances are at the discretion of the Director. Application forms may be obtained from schools, area education offices or the Educational Services Department.

West Dunbartonshire Council is concerned at the level of claims being received regarding the loss of pupils’ clothing and/or personal belongings. Parents are asked to assist in this area by ensuring


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that valuable items and unnecessarily expensive articles of clothing are not brought to school. Parents should note that the council does not carry insurance to cover the loss of such items and any claims submitted are likely to be met only where the council can be shown to have been negligent.

The colour scheme and certain items of dress that comprise an individual school’s uniform should be determined, through a consultation process which is appropriate to each school. This consultation process should involve pupils, parents and staff. A range of options for this uniform may be considered including, for example, different items of clothing for summer.

Bonhill UniformWe have a distinctive uniform at Bonhill Primary to suit everyone and every occasion. We have recently added tartan uniform items to give parents a wider choice. We have our own registered tartan which was designed by one of our parents, Mr Stewart Byron. We are very proud of our tartan and we encourage all children to wear it all year round. Tartan items can be ordered and purchased from the school office. Our traditional school colours are grey, black, red and yellow. Orders for ties can be purchased in the School Office. Pupils are asked to wear black shoes with their uniform, not trainers.

PE KitThe children wear T shirts, shorts and sandshoes whenever they use the gym hall for drama, physical education or sports clubs. We ask that parents supply these to be left in school and taken home for washing periodically. Jewellery is not permitted at those times for health and safety reasons.

The tartan uniform is: The formal uniform is: The informal uniform is:

white school blouse/shirt white school blouse/shirt yellow Bonhill polo shirttartan kilt/pinafore/trousers grey skirt/trousers grey skirt/trousersblack cardigan or jumper grey cardigan or jumper grey Bonhill sweatshirtTartan school tie school tieblack school shoes black school shoes black school shoes


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SCHOOL MEALS

Our school meals are cooked on the premises ensuring that they are of the highest quality. As part of the “Hungry for Success” initiative which focuses on healthy school meals, Bonhill Primary is a “Healthy Choices School”. Pupils should bring the cost of the meal (£1.95 at present) each day in a purse or sealed bag with their name clearly printed. Catering staff collect this in the morning and will give change if required. Class teachers provide the numbers for those children in receipt of free school meals. Each day the children are asked to let their teacher know if they are having a school meal, taking a packed lunch or going home for lunch. All lunches are eaten in the school dining hall or in the internal courtyard. The children can choose where they eat their packed lunch around the school as we have picnic benches and seats around the playground. Parents are asked to notify the school of any special dietary requirements. Free chilled milk is provided daily at the morning interval and parents are asked to encourage their children to drink the milk.

Children of parents receiving income support; job seekers allowance (income based) or child tax credit only with an income of £13,480 or less are entitles to a free mid day meal. Information and application forms for free school meals may be obtained from schools, Area Education Offices and the Education Department.

TRANSPORT

If you live more than one mile from the school you may be able to apply for assistance with transport costs. Application forms and information on transport are available on the council website and must be submitted by the end of February each year to enable the appropriate arrangements to be made.

PHOTOGRAPHY OR VIDEO

In line with Council Policy no photography of individuals is permitted on council premises where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without their consent or in the case of children under 12 years, the consent of their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians will be asked to give written permission on an annual basis for their child to be photographed or videoed for specific purposes related to the life and work of the school and the education service.


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MEDICAL AND HEALTH CARE

West Dunbartonshire Council has strict guidelines and policy on administration of medicines. Consent/information must be given if medicine is to be administered in school. In our school we have a member of staff who is qualified to administer first aid to assist with minor injuries and accidents. Parents are asked to inform the school of any medical requirements of their child.

While the school provides minor first aid treatment, parents should provide the school with an emergency contact so that children can be taken home if illness occurs. The school should be notified immediately if the emergency contact changes.

Minor accidents will be dealt with in school by staff members. In the event of a serious accident the child will be taken directly to Vale of Leven Hospital or Royal Alexandria Hospital, Paisley. Parents will be notified immediately. Minor injuries will be noted in our accident log book and a note of this will be given to the child to take home. In the event of more serious injuries and all head injuries, parents will be contacted by telephone.

The school nurse is involved with all aspects of health screening and health education.Hearing, vision and dental checks are also carried out throughout the year. Primaries 1 and 2 take part in a tooth-brushing project. The school nurse is also available to help, advise and guide parents/carers with individual concerns over pupils health and wellbeing. Please contact the head teacher if you would like to have an appointment with the school nurse.

N.B. We operate a “nut-free zone” in Bonhill Primary as some of our pupils suffer from an allergic reaction if they are in contact with nut products. We ask for the co-operation and assistance of our parents and pupils in this.

INFORMATION IN EMERGENCIES

We make every effort to maintain a full educational service, but on some occasions circumstances arise which lead to disruption. Schools may be affected by, for example, severe weather, temporary interruption of transport, power failures or difficulties of fuel supply. In such cases we shall do all we can to let you know about the details of closure or re-opening. We shall keep you in touch by using letters, notices in local shops and community centres, announcements in local churches and announcements in the press and on local radio. You will also be able to access up to date information from the West Dunbartonshire Council website. This can be located at www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk

It is normal practice within West Dunbartonshire Council to operate a helpline when emergencies arise. Details will be made available when an occasion arises.

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PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Co-operation between the home and the school is essential for the wellbeing of the child. Parents are very welcome in school to discuss any aspect of their child’s development or progress. It is advisable to telephone first to make an appointment. There are various opportunities throughout the year when parents can discuss their child’s progress with the class teacher and view children’s work. Information on these and other activities is communicated to parents in newsletters or by a note taken home by the children. Open evenings for parents tend to be in November and in March. Alternative arrangements can be made for parents who are not available to attend on the agreed parent information evening. Parental opinion or comments will be sought and we welcome responses from parents. Please try to respond so that your feedback can be part of any changes introduced. Additional curriculum meetings are held throughout the year. Parents are welcome to help with a variety of activities. Let us know if you can help in this way.Throughout the year, parents are invited to take part in different activities or attend school functions. This year there has been a theatre show, enterprise Christmas sale, Christmas shows and religious services. Parents are also informed on aspects of school life in every newsletter as well as consulted through an annual audit on our service standards.Accessible and readily available information on local clubs, events and school events, etc. is contained on the notice boards within the school and at the school gate.We have a highly successful Parent Council who meet every six weeks to support the life and work of the school.

BONHILL PARENT VOICE

Bonhill Primary School has an active Parent Council which is committed to supporting the life and work of the school. As a new parent you will be invited to join the Parent Council or take part in fundraising initiatives during the school year. See contact details for further information on parental involvement.

Our parent council members give generously of their time for a meeting each term to discuss how they can best support the school with different projects. They plan and organise specific fund raisers and last session planned and organised a highly successful summer fair. Proceeds from the fair have been used to support outdoor learning; playground equipment, ICT and to fund discos for pupils at Hallowe’en and Easter – where almost all pupils attended.

Parents on the parent council represent the wider parent group and often represent viewpoints leading to changes in procedures and routines in the school. New members are very welcome.


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FASTWORKS BONHILL

After graduating from Families and Schools Together programme, our families continued to meet in monthly FASTworks sessions which provided a supportive environment where the families further developed the positive skills learned in the initial programme. The sessions are led by parent graduates and are designed to unite families and schools together to help our children succeed through empowering parents, children and teachers. FASTworks Bonhill has enhanced our sense of community and has provided a network of knowledge, skills and understanding which all parents can access. FASTworks Bonhill continues to deliver excellence because it continues to provide opportunities for parents to take responsibility and act as advocates for themselves and their children whilst simultaneously developing them as leaders in their community and school. Hopes and dreams become realities – FASTworks Bonhill makes magic happen.

TRANSFER FROM PRIMARY TO SECONDARY SCHOOL

Pupils are normally transferred between the ages of 11½ and 12½ so that they will have the opportunity to complete at least four years of secondary education. Parents will be informed of the arrangements no later than December of the year preceding the date of transfer at the start of the new session.Children from Bonhill Primary School normally transfer to the Vale of Leven Academy School.

DATA PROTECTION ACT 1984

Information on parents and guardians is stored on a computer system and may be used for teaching, registration, assessment and other administrative duties. The information is protected by the Data Protection Act 1984 and may only be disclosed in accordance with the Codes of Practice. For further information please contact the school.

Annual Census DataTransferring Educational Data about pupilsEducation Authorities and the Scottish Governement have collected data about pupils on paper forms for many years. We are now working together to transfer data electronically through the ScotXed programme. Thus Scottish Government has two functions:acting as a ‘hub’ for supporting data exchange within the education system in Scotland and the analysis of data for statistical purposes within Scottish Government.

Why do we need your data?In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education service, the Scottish Government and education authorities 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 exam results. Accurate and up to date data allows the Scottish Government, education authorities and schools 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 that influence pupil attainment and achievement, • share good practice, • target resources better.


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Data Policy The ScotXed programme aims to support schools and Local Authorities by supporting the collecting, processing and dissemination of statistical information required for planning, management and monitoring of Scottish education services.

A subset of this information is passed to Scottish Government for research and 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 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 published by Scottish Government.

The individual data collected by Scottish Government is used for statistical and research purposes only. We hope that the explanations contained on the ScotXed website will help you understand the importance of providing the information.

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 message can give only a brief description of how we use the data. Fuller details of the fuller uses of pupil data can be found on the ScotXed website (www.scotxed.net).

Scottish Government works with a range of partners including HMI Inspectorate of Education and the SQA. On occasion, we will make individual data available to partners and also academic institutions and organisations to carry out research and statistical analysis. In addition, we will provide our partners with information they need in order to fulfil their official responsibilities. Any sharing of data will be done under the strict control of Scottish Government, which 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 action 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.

ConcernsIf you have any concerns about the ScoXed data collections you can e-mail the Senior Statistician, Peter Whitehouse at peter.whitehouse@scotland/gsi.gov.uk or write to the ScotXed Support Office, SEED, Area 1B, 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.

Want more information?Further details about ScotXed data exchanges are available on the ScotXed website, www.scotxed.net. , which contains a section on ‘frequently asked questions’ at: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Statistics/ScotXed


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The Annual Electronic Staff CensusIndividual level staff data is vital for use by the Scottish Government in education workforce planning. As a consequence of receiving this staff information, the Scottish Government will be better able to: • plan more accurately the number of new staff to be trained each year • identify shortages in particular sectors and subjects • monitor movements in and out of the profession at a national level

The information yielded from the analyses of this data is also of great interest to local authorities and teachers’ unions. They were involved in drawing up a list of data fields to be sent to the Scottish Government. Following the recommendations of the Currie report, date of birth and gender data about Educational Psychologists are now collected in order to carry out workforce planning.

BONHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL - OUR SERVICE STANDARDS

The following Standards of Service are also in place in Bonhill Primary School

• Monitor your child’s performance and report to you annually • Hold two parents’ meetings annually • Offer additional meetings with staff if necessary and appropriate • All primary 1 classes will have no more than 25 pupils • All primary 2 and 3 classes will have no more than 30 pupils • Composite classes will have a maximum of 25 pupils • Newsletters to be sent home at least 10 times per year • Parents will have access to the school handbook • Parents will have access to the full Standards & Quality Report • Parents will be sent home a summary account of the Standards & Quality Report every

August • Parents will be given the opportunity to take part in a school audit annually • If there is a serious problem with your child we will contact you immediately • If your child is unwell we will contact you immediately • All letters will be answered within five working days • You will be seen within ten minutes of a pre-arranged meeting • All school staff will be polite and courteous at all times • School staff will wear a name badge • All complaints will be dealt with in line with complaints’ procedure

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IMPORTANT ADDRESSES

Mr Terry LanaganExecutive Director of Educational ServicesWest Dunbartonshire CouncilGarshake RoadDumbartonG82 3PUTel 01389 737000

National Parental Involvement CoordinatorCurriculum DivisionLearning DirectorateScottish GovernmentTel 07825 175247www.engageforeducation.org.uk

Community Learning & DevelopmentUnit 6, Leven Valley Enterprise CentreCastlehill RoadDumbartonG82 5BNTel 01389 608072 Fax 01389 608073

Bonhill Primary School Parent VoiceChairperson ..........................................Mrs Michelle PattersonVice Chairperson .................................................................VacantSecretary ..............................................Mrs Kellie Ann MurdochTreasurer ..................................... Mrs Anne Marie McCandlish

FASTworks Bonhill Chairperson ............................................ Mrs Jennifer ConnellyVice Chairperson .....................................Mrs Vicky McDermidSecretary .......................................................Ms Fiona McQueenTreasurer ................................................................. Ms Kara Smith

Although the information in this handbook is correct at time of printing, there could be changes affecting any of the matters dealt with in the document:(a) before the commencement or during the course of the school year in question;(b) in relation to subsequent school years.

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APPENDIX 1

Clothing Grant/Free School Meal

Application Form

Application for Free School Meals & Clothing Grant 2016/17If your child attends a West Dunbartonshire School you may be entitled to free school meals and a clothing grant. If you think you will qualify, please complete this form making sure the benefit you receive is clearly identified and ensure you sign the declaration.

The Clothing Grant is £50.00 per child and payment will be made by BACS (directly into your bank account). The first payments should be made in June and you should receive your payment within 2 weeks of your application being processed.

Only one clothing grant will be paid for any pupil during a school year.

If you have any queries regarding a clothing grant or free school meals please telephone our contact centre on 01389 738282.

Name of parent / legal guardian

First Name: ........................................................... Surname: ..........................................................................

National Insurance Number .....................................................If you do not have a National Insurance Number and are an Asylum Seeker, please tick the box

Name of partner / spouse

First Name: ........................................................... Surname: ..........................................................................

National Insurance Number: ....................................................If you do not have a National Insurance Number and are an Asylum Seeker, please tick the box

Address:

.............................................................................. Telephone Number: ........................................................

.............................................................................. Mobile Number: .............................................................

..............................................................................

For payment directly into your bank account, please complete the following:

Account Holders Name: ......................................................

Account Number ................................................................ Sort Code: .........................................................

Name & Address of Bank: ...................................................

.............................................................................................

.............................................................................................

N.B. BACS payments cannot be made to post office accounts. If you have a post office account or would prefer payment by cheque, tick here

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List all child (ren) for whom you wish to apply (including children 16 years or over)

Clothing Grants will not be paid for children who will be 16 years old between 1 March and 30 September (children of school leaving age), until they return to school in the new session. However you should include these children on your application.

I am in receipt of the following benefit(s) (please tick ALL relevant):

DeclarationI declare that the information provided by me is a true and accurate statement of my circumstances and that I have not withheld any facts.I agree that the Department for Work & Pensions can give you information about my benefit entitlement so that my application can be processed.I understand that if my application for free school meals is successful and my circumstances change, I must report this.

Signed ................................................................................. Date ..................................................................

Completed forms can be posted or returned to:

Housing Benefit SectionCouncil Offices, Garshake RoadDumbarton, G82 3PUOpening hours:9.00am – 4.00pm Mon – Thursday9.00am -3.30pm Friday

Surname First Name Male/ Female

Date of Birth

(DD/MM/YYYY)

Name of School/Nursery Attended from August

2013

Tick Entitlement To

Income Support School Meals & Clothing Grant

Jobseekers Allowance (income based) School Meals & Clothing Grant

Pension Credit School Meals & Clothing Grant

Employment and Support Allowance (income related) School Meals & Clothing Grant

Housing and / or Council Tax Benefit Clothing Grant

Maximum Working and Child Tax Creditwith income less than £6,420 School Meals & Clothing Grant

Working Tax Creditwith a gross annual income of £15,276 Clothing Grant

Child Tax Credit ONLYwith income less than £16,190 School Meals

Support under Part VI of theImmigration & Asylum Act 1999 School Meals & Clothing Grant

Housing Benefit SectionCouncil OfficesRosebery PlaceClydebankG81 1TGOpening hours:9.00am – 4.30pm Mon – Thursday9.00am – 4.00pm Friday

Housing OfficeMitchell WayAlexandriaG83 0LWOpening hours:8.30am - 4.15pm Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri9.30am - 4.15pm Thursday

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APPENDIX 2

Information on translation services

Translation and Interpretation

The Council provides interpreters and translated materials on request. Further details on the services provided are detailed below.

Telephone Interpreting The Council provides a 24 hour telephone interpreting service, the current provider is Language Line. We are currently reviewing out translation and interpretation services.

The telephone interpreting service is simple and easy to use and the supporting material makes it easy to identify language requirements in face to face situations.

A ‘Guide to Using Services’ is available from Community Planning and Policy or can be downloaded from here.

Face to Face InterpretationWhere services need to provide information in community languages guidance is provided within ‘Communicating Effectively’. This includes a list of approved contracts and is available on the Council’s website or from Community Planning and Policy.Interpreters can be engaged to assist at meetings or in other situations as required.http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/equalitydocuments

Translated TextAll council publications must be offered in alternative formats or community languages. It may not be cost effective to translate a large publication, and in these instances a summary version of the document should be offered, or a meeting, supported by an interpreter, could be arranged to explain the key issues.

Download examples of the standard phrase in community languages.

We are currently reviewing our translated materials and the languages they are provided in and working with relevant community groups on this.

For further information on where to access translation services or for any of the items mentioned above please contact:

Policy Development OfficerCommunity Planning and Policy, 3rd Floor, Council OfficesGarshake Road, Dumbarton, G82 3PUTel: 01389 737269


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Documents

Primary SchoolB...Bonhill Primary School is an award winning school. We have achieved 3 Social Enterprise Awards for our Rice Challenge, Bonhill Buds and Recycled Uniform shop ‘2nd