Prospectus Page Two
School Uniform - As from September 2000
BOYS - WINTER
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black/dark grey trousers Plain dark coloured socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
GIRLS - WINTER OR
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Trousers Plain Dark coloured socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Knee Length Skirt White Socks or Black tights Suitable Black shoes - not training shoes
BOYS - SUMMER OR
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black/Dark Grey Tailored Trousers Plain Dark Coloured Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Suitable Tailored Shorts (Black/Grey) Plain White Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
GIRLS - SUMMER OR OR
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Trousers Plain Dark Coloured Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Knee Length Skirt White socks or black tights Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
Red and White Gingham Dress White Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
Jewellery: Single Stud Earrings Wristwatch(No Nail Polish)
P.E. Indoor and Outdoor: Red Round Neck Tee Shirt or Red Polo White Shorts White Socks Training Shoes or Plimsolls
A Suitable Tracksuit/Sweatshirt/Jogging Suit Can Be Worn
Please ensure that all items are clearly marked with your child's name.
Personal Property
Essential items such as pens, pencils, rulers, stationery, books etc., are obviously all readily available in school. Many children, however, often bring their own personalised items to school to assist their work. Whilst this is never discouraged the school must state that it cannot be held responsible for the loss or damage to items of personal property brought onto the premises.
Catering
A midday meal is prepared in a newly refurbished kitchen on the premises and served in the school hall. We adopt a two- sitting system. Menus are normally published weekly so children may stay on occasional days if they wish. Children may also bring their own packed lunch but we do ask that they do not bring canned drinks or bottles, nor infants hot drinks, as these have all caused problems in the past. Children are supervised throughout the meal.
The price of the 'set' school lunch is £1.30 but children may choose whatever they wish from the choice provided (children normally bring between £1.20 and £1.50). All monies must be brought in a named wallet or purse and handed to the Classteacher at the beginning of the day. These are then handed back to the children at the end of the school day.
Free meals are available and parents who qualify should contact the Grants and Benefits Section at Cornwall County Council. Telephone number 01872 3224 10/11/12. Application form are also available from the School Office.
Visits and Outings
Educational visits by classes are fundamental to providing first hand experiences for our children. All classes link them carefully with topics being studied. Parents are often invited to accompany their children on these visits, if they so wish.
Similarly, we frequently invite visiting speakers and entertainers into school. These visits are always linked into work in which the children are currently involved.
Field Work
We provide the opportunity for children to participate in a residential experience. For 1999 / 2000 we have arranged for Year 6 to stay Porthpean Outdoor Education Centre at St. Austell where they take part in water based activities eg. sailing and canoeing as well as walking, basic rock climbing and abseiling.
This visit is an extremely valuable experience and provides the children with
opportunities to experience activities we are unable to carry out at school and learn how to work effectively with other people. The staff at Porthpean are excellent and the children are always working in the safest possible environment.
BOYS - WINTER
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black/dark grey trousers Plain dark coloured socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
GIRLS - WINTER OR
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Trousers Plain Dark coloured socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Knee Length Skirt White Socks or Black tights Suitable Black shoes - not training shoes
BOYS - SUMMER OR
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black/Dark Grey Tailored Trousers Plain Dark Coloured Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Suitable Tailored Shorts (Black/Grey) Plain White Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
GIRLS - SUMMER OR OR
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Trousers Plain Dark Coloured Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
White Polo Shirt Red Sweatshirt Black Knee Length Skirt White socks or black tights Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
Red and White Gingham Dress White Socks Suitable Black Shoes - not training shoes
Jewellery: Single Stud Earrings Wristwatch(No Nail Polish)
P.E. Indoor and Outdoor: Red Round Neck Tee Shirt or Red Polo White Shorts White Socks Training Shoes or Plimsolls
A Suitable Tracksuit/Sweatshirt/Jogging Suit Can Be Worn
Please ensure that all items are clearly marked with your child's name.
Personal Property
Essential items such as pens, pencils, rulers, stationery, books etc., are obviously all readily available in school. Many children, however, often bring their own personalised items to school to assist their work. Whilst this is never discouraged the school must state that it cannot be held responsible for the loss or damage to items of personal property brought onto the premises.
Catering
A midday meal is prepared in a newly refurbished kitchen on the premises and served in the school hall. We adopt a two- sitting system. Menus are normally published weekly so children may stay on occasional days if they wish. Children may also bring their own packed lunch but we do ask that they do not bring canned drinks or bottles, nor infants hot drinks, as these have all caused problems in the past. Children are supervised throughout the meal.
The price of the 'set' school lunch is £1.30 but children may choose whatever they wish from the choice provided (children normally bring between £1.20 and £1.50). All monies must be brought in a named wallet or purse and handed to the Classteacher at the beginning of the day. These are then handed back to the children at the end of the school day.
Free meals are available and parents who qualify should contact the Grants and Benefits Section at Cornwall County Council. Telephone number 01872 3224 10/11/12. Application form are also available from the School Office.
Visits and Outings
Educational visits by classes are fundamental to providing first hand experiences for our children. All classes link them carefully with topics being studied. Parents are often invited to accompany their children on these visits, if they so wish.
Similarly, we frequently invite visiting speakers and entertainers into school. These visits are always linked into work in which the children are currently involved.
Field Work
We provide the opportunity for children to participate in a residential experience. For 1999 / 2000 we have arranged for Year 6 to stay Porthpean Outdoor Education Centre at St. Austell where they take part in water based activities eg. sailing and canoeing as well as walking, basic rock climbing and abseiling.
This visit is an extremely valuable experience and provides the children with
opportunities to experience activities we are unable to carry out at school and learn how to work effectively with other people. The staff at Porthpean are excellent and the children are always working in the safest possible environment.
Charging - Remission Policy
The School Governing Body has determined the following policy.
For activities during school time, including visits from outside speakers, workshops or visits by the children to places of educational interest, no charge will be made, but voluntary contributions will be invited. Parents will be informed of the amount of money required. However, no child will be placed at a disadvantage because of a parent's unwillingness or inability to pay. If, as a direct consequence of a number of parents not paying, the voluntary contributions received do not meet a level necessary to cover the costs of the activity/event, it may be cancelled and all monies returned.
The school quite naturally looks to the continued support of parents in this matter, thus enabling such worthwhile visits and activities to continue.
Health
Eyesight, hearing and dental screening is carried out regularly and those children who need attention are referred for specialist treatment (if parents agree).
Children's Illnesses and Medicines in School
If your child has been absent through illness please ensure he/she is fully recovered before returning to school. Should your child become unwell in school, we will care for him/her whilst contacting you through your "Emergency Contact Number". Please notify us of any change in the "Emergency Contacts". This information is sometimes vital.
The school prefers parents to come into school to administer medicines to children e.g. antibiotics. Where this is really not possible the following applies:-
* Medicines will only be administered in school, if the child brings the medicine to the Headteacher with clear instructions for use written by the parent. This then constitutes formal permission.
* Any such medicine must be clearly marked with the child's name and prescribed dosage.
* Only medication (such as inhalers for asthma) previously agreed between parents and school (listed on Emergency Contact Information) may be personally carried and used by children. The children should bring no other medications and verbal messages from children regarding dosages will not be accepted.
* Patent medicines, such as cough mixtures or tonics, should only be brought to school by parents if they have been prescribed by the child's own doctor.
* The school is not allowed to keep or administer aspirin or paracetomol to children in school.
" I like all of the teachers because they are kind." Megan Russell
The School Governing Body has determined the following policy.
For activities during school time, including visits from outside speakers, workshops or visits by the children to places of educational interest, no charge will be made, but voluntary contributions will be invited. Parents will be informed of the amount of money required. However, no child will be placed at a disadvantage because of a parent's unwillingness or inability to pay. If, as a direct consequence of a number of parents not paying, the voluntary contributions received do not meet a level necessary to cover the costs of the activity/event, it may be cancelled and all monies returned.
The school quite naturally looks to the continued support of parents in this matter, thus enabling such worthwhile visits and activities to continue.
Health
Eyesight, hearing and dental screening is carried out regularly and those children who need attention are referred for specialist treatment (if parents agree).
Children's Illnesses and Medicines in School
If your child has been absent through illness please ensure he/she is fully recovered before returning to school. Should your child become unwell in school, we will care for him/her whilst contacting you through your "Emergency Contact Number". Please notify us of any change in the "Emergency Contacts". This information is sometimes vital.
The school prefers parents to come into school to administer medicines to children e.g. antibiotics. Where this is really not possible the following applies:-
* Medicines will only be administered in school, if the child brings the medicine to the Headteacher with clear instructions for use written by the parent. This then constitutes formal permission.
* Any such medicine must be clearly marked with the child's name and prescribed dosage.
* Only medication (such as inhalers for asthma) previously agreed between parents and school (listed on Emergency Contact Information) may be personally carried and used by children. The children should bring no other medications and verbal messages from children regarding dosages will not be accepted.
* Patent medicines, such as cough mixtures or tonics, should only be brought to school by parents if they have been prescribed by the child's own doctor.
* The school is not allowed to keep or administer aspirin or paracetomol to children in school.
" I like all of the teachers because they are kind." Megan Russell
7. School Attendance
Tel. 01726 882647
The school day begins at 8.55am., so children should arrive around 8.45am. for a punctual start. Arrival prior to 8.45am. is discouraged, as there is no supervision.
If a child is absent from school you should contact the school immediately and a note should be sent to the class teacher when the child returns. If we are not informed the absence will be unauthorised.
The following table provides details of unauthorised absence from Probus Community Primary School for the Academic Year 1999 - 2000.
Number of Pupils Number of School Sessions (to ) Authorised Absence Unauthorised Absence
131 37634 1808 149 (in order as above)
Please help us to improve these statistics.
If parents wish to take their children on holiday during term time they should complete a holiday form which is obtainable from the school office. Schools have discretionary power for leave to be granted for an annual holiday during term time and only in exceptional circumstances should this amount of leave exceed 10 shool days in any one year.
Parents are asked to avoid key dates such as SATS week.
Any child who goes home for lunch should be back in school by 12.50pm. Those parents who arrive by car are respectfully requested to park sensibly along Ladock Road or Chapel Street and to avoid blocking the driveways of local properties. Please do not park on the staff car park before or after school.
No child will be allowed to leave school during the school hours unless collected by a parent / guardian from the main entrance or having notified the school, in writing, of their arrangements.
Further details of arrangements before and after school are circulated at the beginning of each academic year.
Pupils are expected to attend school for 190 days when the school is open, unless they are ill, have to attend hospital, have medical or dental appointments, or have to attend the funeral of a near relative. Regular attendance is important to foster appropriate attitudes to school and to aid continuity of progress. Frequent absences can lead to truancy. The school has a responsibility to report to the Education Welfare officer for any persistent absence.
"I like the dinner ladies and the canteen because you can have chips and pizza and you get a drink" Jacob
Tel. 01726 882647
The school day begins at 8.55am., so children should arrive around 8.45am. for a punctual start. Arrival prior to 8.45am. is discouraged, as there is no supervision.
If a child is absent from school you should contact the school immediately and a note should be sent to the class teacher when the child returns. If we are not informed the absence will be unauthorised.
The following table provides details of unauthorised absence from Probus Community Primary School for the Academic Year 1999 - 2000.
Number of Pupils Number of School Sessions (to ) Authorised Absence Unauthorised Absence
131 37634 1808 149 (in order as above)
Please help us to improve these statistics.
If parents wish to take their children on holiday during term time they should complete a holiday form which is obtainable from the school office. Schools have discretionary power for leave to be granted for an annual holiday during term time and only in exceptional circumstances should this amount of leave exceed 10 shool days in any one year.
Parents are asked to avoid key dates such as SATS week.
Any child who goes home for lunch should be back in school by 12.50pm. Those parents who arrive by car are respectfully requested to park sensibly along Ladock Road or Chapel Street and to avoid blocking the driveways of local properties. Please do not park on the staff car park before or after school.
No child will be allowed to leave school during the school hours unless collected by a parent / guardian from the main entrance or having notified the school, in writing, of their arrangements.
Further details of arrangements before and after school are circulated at the beginning of each academic year.
Pupils are expected to attend school for 190 days when the school is open, unless they are ill, have to attend hospital, have medical or dental appointments, or have to attend the funeral of a near relative. Regular attendance is important to foster appropriate attitudes to school and to aid continuity of progress. Frequent absences can lead to truancy. The school has a responsibility to report to the Education Welfare officer for any persistent absence.
"I like the dinner ladies and the canteen because you can have chips and pizza and you get a drink" Jacob
8. The Curriculum
Tel. 01726 882647
We value highly the pursuit of academic excellence and we do this through a very clear structure of work which forms part of a "Whole School Plan". This is organised to cover all areas of the National Curriculum and provide a broad and balanced experience for all the children. We firmly believe that the work must build on their previous experience and capture their interest. In all our work we recognise the need to provide a range of teaching styles in order to ensure our teaching is accessible to children who learn in a variety of ways.
We are also very much concerned with the development of what may be termed the "hidden curriculum". Moral education, for example, is a central concern of the school, together with a concern for care in dress, manners and habits. We also actively encourage care in relationships with peers and respect for the feelings of others. This, we believe, is as much "caught" in the atmosphere of the school as taught in the classroom.
The encouragement and co-operation of the home is essential if our aims are to be achieved. We believe that education takes place not just in school: the idea that we are educating children goes in hand with the idea that life itself is a great educator. Many skills, experiences and attitudes started in school will be encouraged and bear fruit, through the right support and development, once our children are outside the school environs. For these reasons, we seek to foster links with the community of which we are a part and thus involve parents, governors and friends in the achievement of our aims.
We follow the National Curriculum which was brought about by the Education Reform Act of 1988. It provides the structure for all we do and is made up of three "Core Subjects" and seven "Foundation Subjects".
Children in the Primary School study "Key Stage 1" which is assessed at seven years of age and "Key Stage 2" which is assessed at eleven years of age. Full details of the National Curriculum structure and content are available from the Headteacher.
Mathematics
Our mathematics teaching is designed to give children a broad range of experiences in mathematics, a sound grasp of mathematical processes and the ability to solve problems. Children work individually, in groups, or as a class when appropriate, using a wide range of materials. The work is often of a practical nature and investigation work is encouraged. We emphasise the importance of understanding, but some work involves committing facts to memory.
The school has successfully implemented the National Numeracy Strategy and we place a high value on the three part lesson which includes the oral/mental starter, main past and a plenary which enables children to share their work and the teacher to assess the children's learning.
English
We consider the acquisition of language skills to be the basis for effective learning. Speaking, listening, reading and writing are the four components within the National Curriculum.
From Reception, children are encouraged to speak clearly and to express themselves effectively. They are encouraged to listen attentively and sensitively to others, to follow instruction and to appreciate story-telling and poetry.
We are guided by the National Literacy Strategy - Literacy skills are taught each day during "Literacy Hour". Reading and writing skills are developed through class, group and individual activities and tasks. This provides a balanced approach to the teaching of reading and writing which caters for the learning needs of individual children.
The Letterland Scheme forms the basis of our early phonetic work. Games, flash cards, jingles, rhymes, stories, Breakthrough word makers and computer software are all used to help build the children's knowledge of phonics. The Heinemann materials provide further work on phonics throughout both Key Stages.
It has always been our aim to present reading as a pleasure and adventure. The idea to foster is that reading books is fun. We try to instil a love of books, to read for pleasure and to read for information. As Parents, you can help in the early stages by your interest and patience and supporting the work done in school. Remember, over anxiety is easily communicated to the child and can result in negative feelings towards reading. Reading activities build on the oral language and experiences which the children bring from home.
These activities develop the necessary confidence, vocabulary, skills and techniques essential to fluent reading. Particular account is taken of the very important link between home and school. For this purpose Reading Diaries are used to record individual progress and materials read. All children and parents are encouraged to use this regularly.
Reading covers a variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction, and a wide range of genres. Each classroom has a wide range of fiction material to suit individual needs and children may work systematically through a scheme if this is considered by the class teacher to be appropriate. Alternatively children are exposed to a range of material rather than working through a progressive scheme. During the Literacy Hours children will participate in guided reading sessions.
In reading to parents, their teacher or another adult, children are encouraged to ask and answer questions about what they have read - how characters feel and their motives - to predict the endings of stories and so on. They are encouraged to talk about the ways in which language has been written down, to notice how works are constructed and spelled, to make informed guesses and to correct themselves. They will also discuss the authors/illustrators of the books they are studying.
The school has recently set up a library which is open throughout the week during the school day, and also before and after school. All children are encouraged to borrow books for home use and parents are invited to the library to choose books with their children.
Science
Science is about gaining an understanding of the physical and natural world around us. Young children are, by nature, scientists, in that they spontaneously try things out, experiment and think up their own explanations of events in their surroundings. Our science teaching aims to capitalise on a pupil's natural curiosity and develop scientific investigation.
We teach science through a series of scientific topics which are organised on a 2 year rolling programme. At both Key Stages pupils will be encouraged to use a practical approach to find out about their immediate surroundings and to develop and understanding of scientific ideas. They will have opportunities to test ideas suggested by their teachers as well as to suggest ideas that can be investigated. They will be encouraged to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of science through the range of practical activities.
Information Communcation Technology
All children experience ICT as a cross-curricular tool. As a school, we have responded to the guidelines set by the National Grid for Learning and all pupils have the opportunity to send and retrieve information using the World Wide Web.
The school has computer systems for each class and a variety of software to which all children have access at various times. In addition we have a state of the ark ICT Suite. Here we have 8 computers, web camera, digital camera. Children regularly use the room and we can guarantee every child has a significant amount of time devoted to developing ICT skills. The school's E-mail address is:
probus@easymail.rmplc.co.uk
This facility is already available for use out of school hours and is an aspect of school which is rapidly developing.
Religious Education
Under the terms of the 1988 Education Reform Act, Religious Education will be taught to all pupils for an "adequate" and "reasonable" length of time.
We accept the fact that the religious traditions in this country are, in the main, Christian. Therefore our teaching will give a prominent and assured place to the study of Christianity, including its basic teachings, its current practice and world-wide growth. Our teaching will also take significant and due account of the basic teachings, practices and influence of other major faiths. Our syllabus will be non-denominational and children will take part in daily collective worship.
Parents wishing to withdraw their children from Religious Education or collective worship may make special arrangements with the Headteacher, should they wish to exercise their right under section 9(3) of the Education Reform Act.
Design Technology
The children are given a range of opportunities to develop their D.T. skills. D.T. involves identifying problems and designing the methods and means of solving them.
All pupils are involved in the technological process: identifying a need; developing a design, making and then evaluating the design.
Humanities
Children study Humanities (History, Geography and Social Studies) right through the school and gradually build on their skills, concepts, knowledge and understanding. Children begin by developing their awareness of their local environment and later, they extend their knowledge by studying contrasting localities in Britain and the wider world. Fieldwork is an essential part of this work and includes visits to historic sites, museums and geographical localities.
Music
At Probus School we have a very good reputation for our musical and dramatic performances. We produce musical plays and concerts for the local community. We currently have a choir of 32 children which is very creditable for a school of our size. We also have active recorder classes for beginners and advanced musicians.
Cornwall Music Service visit the school each Wednesday afternoon and run classes in violin, guitar and keyboard.
In addition to this, every child has the opportunity to take part in singing and music lessons led by our team of musical experts.
We have for the first time entered children into the Speech and Music Festival at St. Austell and we achieved notable success.
Art and Design
Through giving children the chance to try out a varity of art forms and techniques, children will be able to express themselves confidently and use tools and materials effectively.
We are keen to produce art work for local community events and the school achieves a very good standard of work in all disciplines. There is a very active Art Club which takes place each week.
Please come in, look around and enjoy our displays.
PE and Games
The school places high value on sporting activities both within the curriculum and as an extra curricular activity. The school is represented in football, rugby, netball, athletics, swimming and cross-country. The school also takes part in a number of tournaments organised by other Roseland Feeder Primary Schools and we have an annual Sports Day and participate in the Roseland Inter-Schools Sports.
There is no swimming pool at the school but swimming instruction takes place in Truro weekly, for two terms, for all children upwards of and including Year 3. There
is an opportunity for all children to take part in award schemes to improve their swimming and for competent swimmers to compete in the inter-schools swimming gala.
Our hope is that the children will not only enjoy the activities but will subsequently participate in them when they leave our school and become involved in sports clubs as they get older.
Sex Education
Section 18 of the Education (No. 2) Act 1986 requires that Governing Bodies consider whether Sex Education should form part of the secular curriculum for their school. We have agreed as a School policy that no lessons labelled "sex education" are given, but development, and growth are dealt with in other curriculum areas such as Science and Health Education. We will answer questions truthfully and in as much detail as would appear relevant considering the maturity of the child. The treatment of sex education in the curriculum has been reviewed in the light of recent statutory requirements and a copy of our policy is available for inspection in school.
Special Needs
The Authority makes provision, through a variety of agencies, for children with Special Needs. The school is able to seek specialist advice and additional support for those children with learning difficulties, most particularly through the County Psychological Service and Learning Support Service. Parents are always fully consulted and involved in these matters. Children receiving direct support in this way have an IEP (Individual Educational Programme) written for them which is reviewed and modified, as necessary, every six months. An IEP will involve modification of material, support programmes and support teachers as appropriate.
Our Special Needs Teacher, Mrs. Harris, is available to answer any of your questions each Wednesday. In addition, each class has at least 15 hours of support from our Learning Support Staff.
Homework
Doing homework helps children to develop important skills and habits. Young children should start by reading or sharing a book with you for short periods of time. You should also spent time talking to them in order to develop their vocabulary and introduce them to news areas of learning. As children progress through the school, the demand for homework increases. It is important that homework is "fun" and does not degenerate into a "chore". If "we" keep this idea at the forefront of our minds we will reap the rewards later on when children need to develop more independent learning patterns.
We ask parents to keep in close contact with teachers over the completion of tasks.
Complaints about the Curriculum
Formal complaints about the curriculum or any related matter should, in the first instance, be discussed with the Headteacher. If complaints cannot be resolved, they
should be taken up with the Chairman of Governors. In the event of complete dissatisfaction, parents may approach the LEA through the Area Education Office.
Information for Parents
In accordance with the Education Regulations of 1989, parents have access, at the school, to the following information:-
Copies of the Prospectus,
The Governing Body's Annual Report,
Local Education Authority Curricula Statements,
Governing Body's Curriculum Policy and Aims,
Department for Education Orders and Circulars,
Arrangements for the Consideration of Complaints,
Policy for Charges and Activities,
Schemes of Work in Use for the School.
Evaluation
Children are assessed within the first 7 weeks of starting school. Children in Year 1 take part in the Mid Infants Screening Test to monitor their progress in Language. Similarly, at the end of Key Stage 1 (7 years old) and Key Stage 2 (11 years old) children are assessed in the three core subjects of Mathematics, English and Science. This is a combination of Teacher Assessment and Standardised Task Assessments. In addition to this legal requirement, the school elects to administer the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) test material to children in Year 3, 4 and 5. Parents are advised of all test results and these are discussed at Parents' Evenings, when each child's books are available for inspection. Finally, a full written summative report is issued to all parents during the Summer term.
"I like it because everyone is friendly" Lucy Nicholls
Tel. 01726 882647
We value highly the pursuit of academic excellence and we do this through a very clear structure of work which forms part of a "Whole School Plan". This is organised to cover all areas of the National Curriculum and provide a broad and balanced experience for all the children. We firmly believe that the work must build on their previous experience and capture their interest. In all our work we recognise the need to provide a range of teaching styles in order to ensure our teaching is accessible to children who learn in a variety of ways.
We are also very much concerned with the development of what may be termed the "hidden curriculum". Moral education, for example, is a central concern of the school, together with a concern for care in dress, manners and habits. We also actively encourage care in relationships with peers and respect for the feelings of others. This, we believe, is as much "caught" in the atmosphere of the school as taught in the classroom.
The encouragement and co-operation of the home is essential if our aims are to be achieved. We believe that education takes place not just in school: the idea that we are educating children goes in hand with the idea that life itself is a great educator. Many skills, experiences and attitudes started in school will be encouraged and bear fruit, through the right support and development, once our children are outside the school environs. For these reasons, we seek to foster links with the community of which we are a part and thus involve parents, governors and friends in the achievement of our aims.
We follow the National Curriculum which was brought about by the Education Reform Act of 1988. It provides the structure for all we do and is made up of three "Core Subjects" and seven "Foundation Subjects".
Children in the Primary School study "Key Stage 1" which is assessed at seven years of age and "Key Stage 2" which is assessed at eleven years of age. Full details of the National Curriculum structure and content are available from the Headteacher.
Mathematics
Our mathematics teaching is designed to give children a broad range of experiences in mathematics, a sound grasp of mathematical processes and the ability to solve problems. Children work individually, in groups, or as a class when appropriate, using a wide range of materials. The work is often of a practical nature and investigation work is encouraged. We emphasise the importance of understanding, but some work involves committing facts to memory.
The school has successfully implemented the National Numeracy Strategy and we place a high value on the three part lesson which includes the oral/mental starter, main past and a plenary which enables children to share their work and the teacher to assess the children's learning.
English
We consider the acquisition of language skills to be the basis for effective learning. Speaking, listening, reading and writing are the four components within the National Curriculum.
From Reception, children are encouraged to speak clearly and to express themselves effectively. They are encouraged to listen attentively and sensitively to others, to follow instruction and to appreciate story-telling and poetry.
We are guided by the National Literacy Strategy - Literacy skills are taught each day during "Literacy Hour". Reading and writing skills are developed through class, group and individual activities and tasks. This provides a balanced approach to the teaching of reading and writing which caters for the learning needs of individual children.
The Letterland Scheme forms the basis of our early phonetic work. Games, flash cards, jingles, rhymes, stories, Breakthrough word makers and computer software are all used to help build the children's knowledge of phonics. The Heinemann materials provide further work on phonics throughout both Key Stages.
It has always been our aim to present reading as a pleasure and adventure. The idea to foster is that reading books is fun. We try to instil a love of books, to read for pleasure and to read for information. As Parents, you can help in the early stages by your interest and patience and supporting the work done in school. Remember, over anxiety is easily communicated to the child and can result in negative feelings towards reading. Reading activities build on the oral language and experiences which the children bring from home.
These activities develop the necessary confidence, vocabulary, skills and techniques essential to fluent reading. Particular account is taken of the very important link between home and school. For this purpose Reading Diaries are used to record individual progress and materials read. All children and parents are encouraged to use this regularly.
Reading covers a variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction, and a wide range of genres. Each classroom has a wide range of fiction material to suit individual needs and children may work systematically through a scheme if this is considered by the class teacher to be appropriate. Alternatively children are exposed to a range of material rather than working through a progressive scheme. During the Literacy Hours children will participate in guided reading sessions.
In reading to parents, their teacher or another adult, children are encouraged to ask and answer questions about what they have read - how characters feel and their motives - to predict the endings of stories and so on. They are encouraged to talk about the ways in which language has been written down, to notice how works are constructed and spelled, to make informed guesses and to correct themselves. They will also discuss the authors/illustrators of the books they are studying.
The school has recently set up a library which is open throughout the week during the school day, and also before and after school. All children are encouraged to borrow books for home use and parents are invited to the library to choose books with their children.
Science
Science is about gaining an understanding of the physical and natural world around us. Young children are, by nature, scientists, in that they spontaneously try things out, experiment and think up their own explanations of events in their surroundings. Our science teaching aims to capitalise on a pupil's natural curiosity and develop scientific investigation.
We teach science through a series of scientific topics which are organised on a 2 year rolling programme. At both Key Stages pupils will be encouraged to use a practical approach to find out about their immediate surroundings and to develop and understanding of scientific ideas. They will have opportunities to test ideas suggested by their teachers as well as to suggest ideas that can be investigated. They will be encouraged to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of science through the range of practical activities.
Information Communcation Technology
All children experience ICT as a cross-curricular tool. As a school, we have responded to the guidelines set by the National Grid for Learning and all pupils have the opportunity to send and retrieve information using the World Wide Web.
The school has computer systems for each class and a variety of software to which all children have access at various times. In addition we have a state of the ark ICT Suite. Here we have 8 computers, web camera, digital camera. Children regularly use the room and we can guarantee every child has a significant amount of time devoted to developing ICT skills. The school's E-mail address is:
probus@easymail.rmplc.co.uk
This facility is already available for use out of school hours and is an aspect of school which is rapidly developing.
Religious Education
Under the terms of the 1988 Education Reform Act, Religious Education will be taught to all pupils for an "adequate" and "reasonable" length of time.
We accept the fact that the religious traditions in this country are, in the main, Christian. Therefore our teaching will give a prominent and assured place to the study of Christianity, including its basic teachings, its current practice and world-wide growth. Our teaching will also take significant and due account of the basic teachings, practices and influence of other major faiths. Our syllabus will be non-denominational and children will take part in daily collective worship.
Parents wishing to withdraw their children from Religious Education or collective worship may make special arrangements with the Headteacher, should they wish to exercise their right under section 9(3) of the Education Reform Act.
Design Technology
The children are given a range of opportunities to develop their D.T. skills. D.T. involves identifying problems and designing the methods and means of solving them.
All pupils are involved in the technological process: identifying a need; developing a design, making and then evaluating the design.
Humanities
Children study Humanities (History, Geography and Social Studies) right through the school and gradually build on their skills, concepts, knowledge and understanding. Children begin by developing their awareness of their local environment and later, they extend their knowledge by studying contrasting localities in Britain and the wider world. Fieldwork is an essential part of this work and includes visits to historic sites, museums and geographical localities.
Music
At Probus School we have a very good reputation for our musical and dramatic performances. We produce musical plays and concerts for the local community. We currently have a choir of 32 children which is very creditable for a school of our size. We also have active recorder classes for beginners and advanced musicians.
Cornwall Music Service visit the school each Wednesday afternoon and run classes in violin, guitar and keyboard.
In addition to this, every child has the opportunity to take part in singing and music lessons led by our team of musical experts.
We have for the first time entered children into the Speech and Music Festival at St. Austell and we achieved notable success.
Art and Design
Through giving children the chance to try out a varity of art forms and techniques, children will be able to express themselves confidently and use tools and materials effectively.
We are keen to produce art work for local community events and the school achieves a very good standard of work in all disciplines. There is a very active Art Club which takes place each week.
Please come in, look around and enjoy our displays.
PE and Games
The school places high value on sporting activities both within the curriculum and as an extra curricular activity. The school is represented in football, rugby, netball, athletics, swimming and cross-country. The school also takes part in a number of tournaments organised by other Roseland Feeder Primary Schools and we have an annual Sports Day and participate in the Roseland Inter-Schools Sports.
There is no swimming pool at the school but swimming instruction takes place in Truro weekly, for two terms, for all children upwards of and including Year 3. There
is an opportunity for all children to take part in award schemes to improve their swimming and for competent swimmers to compete in the inter-schools swimming gala.
Our hope is that the children will not only enjoy the activities but will subsequently participate in them when they leave our school and become involved in sports clubs as they get older.
Sex Education
Section 18 of the Education (No. 2) Act 1986 requires that Governing Bodies consider whether Sex Education should form part of the secular curriculum for their school. We have agreed as a School policy that no lessons labelled "sex education" are given, but development, and growth are dealt with in other curriculum areas such as Science and Health Education. We will answer questions truthfully and in as much detail as would appear relevant considering the maturity of the child. The treatment of sex education in the curriculum has been reviewed in the light of recent statutory requirements and a copy of our policy is available for inspection in school.
Special Needs
The Authority makes provision, through a variety of agencies, for children with Special Needs. The school is able to seek specialist advice and additional support for those children with learning difficulties, most particularly through the County Psychological Service and Learning Support Service. Parents are always fully consulted and involved in these matters. Children receiving direct support in this way have an IEP (Individual Educational Programme) written for them which is reviewed and modified, as necessary, every six months. An IEP will involve modification of material, support programmes and support teachers as appropriate.
Our Special Needs Teacher, Mrs. Harris, is available to answer any of your questions each Wednesday. In addition, each class has at least 15 hours of support from our Learning Support Staff.
Homework
Doing homework helps children to develop important skills and habits. Young children should start by reading or sharing a book with you for short periods of time. You should also spent time talking to them in order to develop their vocabulary and introduce them to news areas of learning. As children progress through the school, the demand for homework increases. It is important that homework is "fun" and does not degenerate into a "chore". If "we" keep this idea at the forefront of our minds we will reap the rewards later on when children need to develop more independent learning patterns.
We ask parents to keep in close contact with teachers over the completion of tasks.
Complaints about the Curriculum
Formal complaints about the curriculum or any related matter should, in the first instance, be discussed with the Headteacher. If complaints cannot be resolved, they
should be taken up with the Chairman of Governors. In the event of complete dissatisfaction, parents may approach the LEA through the Area Education Office.
Information for Parents
In accordance with the Education Regulations of 1989, parents have access, at the school, to the following information:-
Copies of the Prospectus,
The Governing Body's Annual Report,
Local Education Authority Curricula Statements,
Governing Body's Curriculum Policy and Aims,
Department for Education Orders and Circulars,
Arrangements for the Consideration of Complaints,
Policy for Charges and Activities,
Schemes of Work in Use for the School.
Evaluation
Children are assessed within the first 7 weeks of starting school. Children in Year 1 take part in the Mid Infants Screening Test to monitor their progress in Language. Similarly, at the end of Key Stage 1 (7 years old) and Key Stage 2 (11 years old) children are assessed in the three core subjects of Mathematics, English and Science. This is a combination of Teacher Assessment and Standardised Task Assessments. In addition to this legal requirement, the school elects to administer the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) test material to children in Year 3, 4 and 5. Parents are advised of all test results and these are discussed at Parents' Evenings, when each child's books are available for inspection. Finally, a full written summative report is issued to all parents during the Summer term.
"I like it because everyone is friendly" Lucy Nicholls
9. Term Dates
Tel. 01726 882647
TERMS
2001 Autumn Term 04.09.2001 - 19.12.2001
2002 Spring Term 03.01.2002 - 27.03.2002
2002 Summer Term 15.04.2002 - 24.07.2002
HOLIDAYS
Day and Date of Closing Day and Date of Opening
2001
Autumn Half-Term Friday 19th October Monday 29th October
Christmas Wednesday 19th December Thursday 3rd January 2002
2002
Spring Half-Term Friday 15th February Monday 25th February
Easter Wednesday 27th March Monday 15th April
May Day Monday 6th May
Summer Half-Term Friday 31st May Monday 10th June
Summer Wednesday 24th July Wednesday 4th September
"I like the big book, it's brilliant because you find out about things." Sophie Baker
9. School Times
Tel. 01726 882647
Key Stage 1
08.55a.m. Children arrive at school
08.55a.m. School begins
08.55 ? 10.30a.m. 1st. Session
10.30 ? 10.50a.m. Break
10.50 ? 12.00 2nd. Session
12.00 ? 13.00p.m. Lunch
13.00 ? 14.30p.m. 3rd. Session
14.30 ? 14.40p.m. Break
14.40 ? 15.10p.m. 4th. Session
Key Stage 2
08.55a.m. Children arrive at school
08.55a.m. School begins
08.55 ? 10.30a.m. 1st. Session
10.30 ? 10.50a.m. Break
10.50 ? 12.05midday 2nd. Session
12.05 ? 13.00p.m. Lunch
13.00 ? 14.20p.m. 3rd. Session
14.20 ? 15.15p.m. 4th. Session
Please note : School cannot be, and in fact is not responsible, for children
arriving before 8.45 a.m.
"I like painting at school." Robert Woolcock
"I like Fridays." Josh
Tel. 01726 882647
TERMS
2001 Autumn Term 04.09.2001 - 19.12.2001
2002 Spring Term 03.01.2002 - 27.03.2002
2002 Summer Term 15.04.2002 - 24.07.2002
HOLIDAYS
Day and Date of Closing Day and Date of Opening
2001
Autumn Half-Term Friday 19th October Monday 29th October
Christmas Wednesday 19th December Thursday 3rd January 2002
2002
Spring Half-Term Friday 15th February Monday 25th February
Easter Wednesday 27th March Monday 15th April
May Day Monday 6th May
Summer Half-Term Friday 31st May Monday 10th June
Summer Wednesday 24th July Wednesday 4th September
"I like the big book, it's brilliant because you find out about things." Sophie Baker
9. School Times
Tel. 01726 882647
Key Stage 1
08.55a.m. Children arrive at school
08.55a.m. School begins
08.55 ? 10.30a.m. 1st. Session
10.30 ? 10.50a.m. Break
10.50 ? 12.00 2nd. Session
12.00 ? 13.00p.m. Lunch
13.00 ? 14.30p.m. 3rd. Session
14.30 ? 14.40p.m. Break
14.40 ? 15.10p.m. 4th. Session
Key Stage 2
08.55a.m. Children arrive at school
08.55a.m. School begins
08.55 ? 10.30a.m. 1st. Session
10.30 ? 10.50a.m. Break
10.50 ? 12.05midday 2nd. Session
12.05 ? 13.00p.m. Lunch
13.00 ? 14.20p.m. 3rd. Session
14.20 ? 15.15p.m. 4th. Session
Please note : School cannot be, and in fact is not responsible, for children
arriving before 8.45 a.m.
"I like painting at school." Robert Woolcock
"I like Fridays." Josh
10. Results of N.C. Assessments
Tel. 01726 882647
National Curriculum Assessment of 11 year olds 2001
Number of the Year Group attaining particular levels in Teacher Assessment
Subject Disapplied Working towards level 1 Level
1 2 3 4 5 6
English 2 2 9 8
Mathematics 7 6 8
Science 7 10 4
Number of the Year Group attaining particular levels in the tests
Subject Disapplied Working towards level 1 Level Absent
1 2 3 4 5 6
English 1 6 8 5 1
Mathematics 7 7 6 1
Science 1 13 5 1
These results have been arrived at by statutory assessment.
National Curriculum Results 2001 ( Last Academic Year)
% of Children Level 4 or better
National Overall Cornwall Probus Community Primary School
ENGLISH TA 70.0 73.0 73.0
Test 70.0 73.0 73.0
MATHEMATICS TA 72.0 74.0 82.0
Test 68.0 72.0 73.0
SCIENCE TA 79.0 82.0 77.0
Test 85.0 85.0 77.0
National Curriculum Assessment of 7 year olds 2001
Percentage of the Year Group attaining particular levels in Task and Test results
Subject Working towards level 1 Level
1 2 2C 2B 2A 3
Reading Task 57 36 21
Reading Comp. Tests 57 29 29 367%level 4
Writing Task 7 79 29 36 14 14
Spelling Test 64 29
Mathematics 64 21 36 7 36
National Curriculum Results 2001 ( Last Academic Year)
% of Children Level 2 or better
National Overall Cornwall Probus Community Primary School
READING Test 84.0 100.00
TA 84.0 100.00
WRITING Test 85.0 93.0
TA 82.0 93.0
MATHEMATICS Test 91.0 100.00
TA 88.0 93.0
SCIENCE TA 88.0 100.00
Tel. 01726 882647
National Curriculum Assessment of 11 year olds 2001
Number of the Year Group attaining particular levels in Teacher Assessment
Subject Disapplied Working towards level 1 Level
1 2 3 4 5 6
English 2 2 9 8
Mathematics 7 6 8
Science 7 10 4
Number of the Year Group attaining particular levels in the tests
Subject Disapplied Working towards level 1 Level Absent
1 2 3 4 5 6
English 1 6 8 5 1
Mathematics 7 7 6 1
Science 1 13 5 1
These results have been arrived at by statutory assessment.
National Curriculum Results 2001 ( Last Academic Year)
% of Children Level 4 or better
National Overall Cornwall Probus Community Primary School
ENGLISH TA 70.0 73.0 73.0
Test 70.0 73.0 73.0
MATHEMATICS TA 72.0 74.0 82.0
Test 68.0 72.0 73.0
SCIENCE TA 79.0 82.0 77.0
Test 85.0 85.0 77.0
National Curriculum Assessment of 7 year olds 2001
Percentage of the Year Group attaining particular levels in Task and Test results
Subject Working towards level 1 Level
1 2 2C 2B 2A 3
Reading Task 57 36 21
Reading Comp. Tests 57 29 29 367%level 4
Writing Task 7 79 29 36 14 14
Spelling Test 64 29
Mathematics 64 21 36 7 36
National Curriculum Results 2001 ( Last Academic Year)
% of Children Level 2 or better
National Overall Cornwall Probus Community Primary School
READING Test 84.0 100.00
TA 84.0 100.00
WRITING Test 85.0 93.0
TA 82.0 93.0
MATHEMATICS Test 91.0 100.00
TA 88.0 93.0
SCIENCE TA 88.0 100.00
11. Location of the School
From The Square in the centre of the village take a left along Chapel Street. The school is situated about 100 yds. on the left.
Tel. 01726 882647
From The Square in the centre of the village take a left along Chapel Street. The school is situated about 100 yds. on the left.
Tel. 01726 882647