OUR HISTORY

St. Andrew Preparatory School opened its doors on September 16, 1930 with ten

students. These children ranged in ages from three and a half to seven years. Miss

Adela Anderson started leadership in the school which was called “The Preparatory

Department of the St. Andrew High School for Girls”. She was appointed the post of

‘Mistress-in-Charge’ on February 6, 1930 and retired in December 1950, making it

twenty years of association with the institution.

A look through the Log Book for this period shows the Preparatory Department

making the news quite frequently. Entertainment and Prize-Giving performances

were duly recorded in the Daily Gleaner while sports days for a number of years were

given full coverage – attesting to the athletic prowess of Michael Manley, Eric Bell,

Ramon Alberga, Fay Carpenter Simpson, Barbara Fonseca and the three

Ashenheim brothers, all of whom went on to make their mark in various fields. It is

important to note that the late Honourable Michael Manley, former Prime Minister

of Jamaica and his brother, Dr. Douglas Manley, were two of the first ten students of

the school. Michael, a leader from the very beginning, was the first Prefect of the St.

Andrew Preparatory School.

The school originally housed these ten students in the garage of the High School.

Within three years, they were moved into a new building. Four traditions began

between the 1930s and 1950s. These were Brownies, Sports Day, Friday Pennies and

the Presentation of Gifts at the Christmas Tree for distribution to various children’s

homes.

On the retirement of Miss Anderson in 1950, Miss Olwen Armon-Jones took over

the leadership of the school. This she held until 1955. Mrs. Valentine Milner came

to St. Andrew Preparatory School in 1951 as a teacher and became the ‘Mistress-in-

Charge’ of the Primary Department after 5 years, a position she held for 12 years. At

that time, there were 125 students on roll ranging in ages four to nine years. In 1957,

the Junior Department was established, under Miss Jean Watson’s leadership, with

students from the top class of the Preparatory School together with the two lower

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ST. ANDREW PREPARATORY SCHOOL

2 – 6 CECELIO AVENUE

KINGSTON 10

STUDENT AND PARENT COMMITMENT

Name of Student:

Class:

We have read the St. Andrew Preparatory School Handbook and agree to the rules and regulations set

forth. We promise to abide by the standards required.

AFTERCARE

I agree that if my child is present at school at the start of Aftercare and not involved in an activity, he/she

will automatically be registered and I will be responsible for charges applied per hour.

Kindly sign and return forms to your child’s class teacher.

Signature of Parent/Guardian

Name Of Student

Parent’s / Guardian’s Signature

Date

Date

Student’s Signature

Grade

classes of the High School. The students were housed in two form rooms in the High

School and moved into Cecelio Lodge by 1960.

In 1967, the Primary and Junior Departments were merged and Mrs. Milner became

the first Principal of St. Andrew Preparatory School – a position she held for 15 years.

Her experience here spanned 31 years. This transition, from being a small depart-

ment of a high school to becoming the completely separate preparatory school it is

today, took ten years.

Miss Madge Broderick spent 35 years and two terms with the St.

Andrew Preparatory School family. This union began in 1962. She spent 6 years as

classroom teacher then was given the post of Vice

Principal (the first one in the school). She spent thirteen years here then left to work

at the Ministry of Education as an Education Officer. She returned in 1982 as Prin-

cipal and remained in that position until her retirement in August 2004. This era

spanned 22 years.

The school continued to thrive. The Mighty Mice Magazine, which was started by

Miss Watson in 1958, continues as an annual

publication to date and includes activities and achievements for each school year.

The Parent Teachers’ Association had its inaugural meeting on February 24, 1943

and has over the years made invaluable contributions to the life of the school. They

have also, since 1966, given significant contributions to Minna Carr Basic School in

Cane River, nine miles from Kingston. One of the highlights of the Golden Jubilee

year (1980) was the adoption of the school’s motto “Work, Play and Learn Together”

which managed to define a great deal of the school’s mantra over the years.

Miss Renée Rattray, Vice Principal from September 2001 to July 2003, was appointed

Principal in 2004, upon Miss Broderick’s retirement. Her love of and involvement in

the Performing Arts saw the school becoming very involved in festival competitions.

The numerous medals and awards received attest to the high standard of the students’

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Book Exchange

The “Book Exchange” concept was created in the Primary Department in keeping

with the school’s commitment to building literacy skills.

Students are invited to bring a book to school which is exchanged for another book.

All books must be in good condition. This creates a common pool in which books

will no longer be individually owned. Children are encouraged to be actively

involved in selecting their own books.

Staff In Concert (SIC)

This is a fun programme which was started in 2012 at the end of the Easter Term for

students’ enjoyment and to promote staff interaction. Each year the theme changes.

The following year it was S.I.C. AGAIN.

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performances. Miss Rattray moved on to complete her doctoral studies.

Mrs. Vivia Grant joined St. Andrew Preparatory School in September 1988 as Vice

Principal. She resigned in August 1993. On returning to the school in September

1995, she became our Computer Education Teacher and whilst in that position, was

asked to act as Vice Principal for one year from September 1, 2000.

She was appointed Vice Principal in September 2007 until her

retirement in December 2011.

Mrs. Bethinia Edwards was recruited to the staff of St. Andrew

Preparatory School in an acting position in September 1986 as a Class Teacher. She

was subsequently offered a permanent position in the school’s Junior Department as

Teacher Librarian.

In September 2000, she was appointed Senior Teacher in the Primary Department

and in January 2012, appointed Vice Principal.

In September 2008, Mrs. Karlene Buckle-Fraser was appointed the school’s sixth

principal. She has pushed the enrolment from 450 in 2008 to 540 students now in

2013. Mrs. Buckle-Fraser focuses on Cross Curricular Integration, Technology in

Education, Structured Play, Media Literacy, Inclusion, Differentiation and

Community Outreach. Students are stimulated by magnetic wall games affixed to the

walls in both departments, beautifully painted playground markings, rewards/

incentives for academic excellence and positive attitudes and extra-curricular

activities to show off their talents.

The staff includes rounded, motivated, hardworking teachers who create enjoyable

learning experiences for our students. Today, the school boasts two Resource Rooms,

a Computer Laboratory, a Science Laboratory and a Multimedia Room which are

fully utilized daily. We dream of converting our Media Room and Library to

electronic hubs especially for students with special education needs.

“The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never

die.” (Edward M. Kennedy, 1980)

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There is the Mr. & Miss Bazaar Competition which is a very big part of the event.

This competition is usually launched on the first Friday in November at devotion.

Proceeds from this event are used solely to add teaching/learning tools to benefit all

children in both departments. The money is deposited to the PTA account and

disbursed by the Treasurer following directives from the Principal.

Bazaar has become more sophisticated. The games have become more modern and

have now included trampoline, rock climbing, mechanical bull, waterslides, go

carting etc.

Crazy Artsy .... It’s Me

This is a day for students/staff to express themselves and to display their crazy fashion

sense while being productive.

Toll Day

This is a fund-raising event that mimics toll booths on main highways by charging

each vehicle to enter the school compound. A teacher dresses as a ‘traffic control

warden’ and greets each driver and collects the toll and two other teachers are seated

in a booth made of cardboard making change.

Travelling Theatre

This is a moving group of Phestians, Choristers, Dancers, Musicians and Choreo-

signers who use the stage as a platform to educate, entertain and share their god-given

talents with all. The group also does charitable work, instilling their philanthropic

nature.

Book Fair

There is usually a wide variety of books from which to choose. Book fairs sometimes

provide opportunities to meet authors, people with similar interests and publishers.

Book fairs promote a love for reading and to encourage book sales in order to raise

money for the school library. It creates awareness about a particular theme or culture

and revives reading habits

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SCHEME OF MANAGEMENT

Property

The land and buildings occupied by the St. Andrew Preparatory School (hereinafter

called the School) and the St. Andrew High School for Girls are jointly and equally

owned by the Methodist Missionary Trust Association and the Jamaica Presbyterian

Corporation.

The boundary between the areas administered by the two Boards shall be defined

jointly by the Synod of the Methodist Church in Jamaica and the Synod of the

United Church of Jamaica and Grand Cayman and may in like manner be re-defined

from time to time.

Board

The School shall be managed by a Board consisting of fourteen members, seven

appointed by each of the two Synods. In making the appointments, the Synod of

the Methodist Church shall invite the Parent Teachers Association of the School to

recommend one member and the Synod of the United Church shall invite the Old

Girls Association to recommend one member. The period of each appointment shall

continue until the Board has been notified of its termination by the appointing

Synod.

Finance

The funds of the School shall be vested in the Board. The accounts of the School

shall be audited as soon as possible after the end of each school year. A copy of the

Auditors’ Statement shall be supplied to each Synod. The Board may borrow or

arrange an overdraft at the Bank provided that the terms of the loan or the limit of

the overdraft have been approved by both Synods.

Aims

The School shall provide education for boys and girls between age limits to be de-

fined by the Board and which may be re-defined by the Board from time to time.

The School shall aim at the Christian education of each child, keeping in mind the

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Matters which cannot be resolved at this level will be referred to the School Board.

The Mighty Mice Magazine

A group of teachers form the committee to collect and edit articles for the magazine

on a yearly basis. Cost for printing is covered by soliciting sponsorship from the

business community and special features by parents about their children.

Each edition features:

• photographs of all staff, students, clubs and societies

• highlights of school events and achievements

• Young Publishers’ Corner

• reflections from members of the School Board, PTA, Chaplains and

school administration

• tributes

COMMITTEES

• Parent Welfare

• Staff Welfare

• Student Welfare

• Magazine

• Library/Media Room

• Sports

• Technology

• Events

• Community Service/Outreach

• Performing Arts

• Travelling Theatre

EVENTS

Bazaar

Bazaar started in the early 1980s and is usually held on the first

Friday in December each year. It was originally planned by parents and teachers.

Some of the proceeds from this event were given to various charities.

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fourfold development, physical, mental, spiritual and social, and shall prepare each

pupil for further education in other institutions.

CONSTITUTION OF THE PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION OF THEST. ANDREW PREPARATORY SCHOOL

TITLE:

1. The Association shall be known as the Parent-Teacher

Association of the St. Andrew Preparatory School.

OBJECTIVES:

2. The Objectives of the Association shall be to :-

(a) foster co-operation between school and home for the welfare of

the child.

(b) make parents and teachers better acquainted and

to develop a closer relationship between them.

(c) inform parents of school rules, standards and activities.

(d) encourage discussions and exchange of viewpoints on child

training.

(e) inquire into and investigate any matter whatsoever which in the

opinion of the Committee relates to or affects the welfare of the

St. Andrew Preparatory School in connection with such matter

as they deem advisable.

(f) do any act or thing conducive to the attainment

of (a), (b), (c) or (d).

MEMBERSHIP:

3. Membership of the Association shall be confined to:-

(a) Parents or legal guardians of children belonging to St. Andrew

Preparatory School.

(b) Members of the teaching staff of the St. Andrew Preparatory

School.

CLASS OF MEMBERSHIP

4. The membership shall consist of:-

(a) Ordinary members being parents or legal guardians of children of

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It is hoped that most complaints and concerns will be resolved quickly and informally.

If parents have a complaint, they should normally contact their child’s class teacher,

the Vice Principal, Senior Teacher, Guidance Counsellor or staff member most

closely concerned with the issue. In many cases, the matter will be resolved

immediately by this means to the parents’ satisfaction.

The Class Teacher, Vice Principal, Senior Teacher, Guidance Counsellor or relevant

member of staff will make a written record of all concerns and complaints and the

date on which they were received.

Should the matter not be resolved or in the event that the Class Teacher, Vice

Principal, Senior Teacher, Guidance Counsellor or relevant member of staff and the

parents fail to reach a satisfactory resolution, parents will be advised to proceed with

their complaint to Stage 2.

Stage 2 – Formal Resolution

If the complaint cannot be resolved on an informal basis, parents should put their

complaint in writing to the Principal. The Principal will decide, after considering the

complaint, the appropriate course of action to take. In most cases, the Principal or a

senior member of staff will meet/speak to the parents concerned to discuss the matter.

If possible, a resolution will be reached at this stage.

It may be necessary for the Principal to carry out further investigations. The

Principal will keep written records of all meetings and interviews held in relation to

the complaint.

Once the Principal is satisfied that all the relevant facts have been established, a

decision will be made and parents will be informed of this decision in writing. The

Principal will also give reasons for the decision. Based on the nature of the grievance,

attempts will be made to convene a meeting with the parties concerned, along with

the Vice Principal, Senior Teacher and Guidance Counsellor to have a final

discussion.

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St. Andrew Preparatory School.

(b) Honorary Life Members being members during such period or

periods as they cease to possess the qualification as being a

parent or legal guardian of a child in St. Andrew Preparatory

School.

(c) Members of the teaching staff of St. Andrew Preparatory School.

VOTES OF MEMBERS:

5. At every Annual General Meeting and at every General Meeting, each

member (except Honorary Life Members) shall be entitled to one

vote, and if both parents and/or legal guardians are present at any

such meeting, then each shall be entitled to vote.

COMMITTEE:

6. The business and management of the affairs of the Association shall

be in the hands of the Committee of the Association, who shall be

elected by members at the Annual General Meeting of the

Association. No person shall be elected a member of the

Committee unless he/she is an Ordinary Member of the Association.

The Committee shall consist of not more than seventeen (17) persons.

Twelve of these persons shall be elected from the Ordinary Members

of the Association. There shall be four (4) ex officio members of the

Committee.

i. The Principal of St. Andrew Preparatory School

ii. The Vice-Principal of St. Andrew Preparatory School

iii. Two members of the teaching staff of St. Andrew Preparatory

School (one from the Primary Department and one from the

Junior Department) nominated by the Principal of the school.

The Committee may co-opt a maximum of four (4) members as

required as long as the total number of Committee members does not

exceed seventeen (17). The Committee also has the power to appoint

Sub-Committees for special purposes.

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9. Know your child’s teacher.

10. Know your child’s Principal/Vice Principal/Guidance Counsellor/Nurse/

Security Guard

11. Remember that children attending St. Andrew Preparatory School are too

young to be unsupervised while on social networks (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

12. Parents should not linger in the school yard after 7:45 a.m. and should leave

the compound immediately after drop off/pick up unless they have an

appointment with a teacher, the principal or attending a committee

meeting.

13. Parents must dress appropriately when visiting the school compound. Gym

tights, short shorts, revealing or tight clothes are not appropriate and

should not be worn when visiting the school.

14. Parents must treat teachers, other parents, students and security guards

with respect at all times and must not be abusive. Offenders will be asked

to remove their child/children from the school.

15. Kindly refrain from criticizing school personnel and school rules especially

within the presence of your child

16. Active participation and support from parents in all school activities will

help our school community to improve.

Complaints Procedure

We know that parents have a fundamental right to discuss any grievances they might

have with the school. However, it is also recognized that there must be an orderly

procedure for hearing and resolving them.

Stage 1 – Informal Resolution

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The Committee shall have six (6) officers who shall be elected at the

Annual General Meeting viz:-

Chairperson

Vice-Chairperson

Secretary

Assistant Secretary

Treasurer

Assistant Treasurer

The Chairperson shall normally chair all meetings of the Association

and shall act as Spokesperson for the Association. The Chairperson

or his/her Deputy shall also sign official documents on behalf of the

Association.

The Vice-Chairperson shall deputize for the Chairperson whenever the

latter is, for any reason, unable to attend meetings or official

functions.

The Secretary shall summon all meetings of the Association and shall

take Minutes of all business meetings.

The Treasurer shall receive all subscriptions, gifts and donations to the

Association. He/she shall present an audited account of the

Association’s business at each Annual General Meeting. The

Committee shall meet at least once per term and the quorum for the

Committee shall be five (5).

If an elected Committee member be absent for three (3) consecutive

Committee meetings without an acceptable excuse, he/she will be

asked to resign and can be replaced by a co-opted member for the

remainder of the year, until the next Annual General Meeting.

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First Aid

St. Andrew Preparatory School has designated members of staff with First Aid

training along with the school nurse.

In the event of a minor accident, students are sent to the school nurse who will deal

with the matter accordingly. All head and eye injuries, however minor, are reported

to parents.

In the case of more serious injuries, parents are contacted immediately. Should a visit

to the hospital be required, the child will be taken by the school nurse to a nearby

hospital

GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS

1. Positive encouragement should be given to children and they should be

motivated to do their best.

2. Ensure that your child arrives at school on time.

3. Discuss the school’s discipline guidelines with your child.

4. Co-operate with the school to make homework effective

5. Provide your children with suitable study conditions (desk/table, proper

lighting, books and other needed supplies).

6. Reserve a time for homework/reading each day and limit television viewing.

7. Encourage your children. Avoid undue pressure. Give praises and rewards

to motivate positive behaviour.

8. Show interest in what your children are doing, but do not do the work for

them. Class teachers know the quality of a child’s work.

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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING:

7. The Annual General Meeting shall be held during the Christmas Term

and the quorum for this meeting shall be fifty (50) voting members.

At each Annual General Meeting, the four longest serving members

of the Committee shall retire and shall only be eligible for re-election

if they have served less than three (3) consecutive years. For members

who have been on the Committee for equal lengths of time, the

members to retire shall volunteer or be determined by lot.

The retiring members of the Committee shall continue to act as Committee

Members throughout the meeting at which they retire.

Voting Procedure:

The number of vacant Committee member positions shall first be

filled by vote of the members, if there are more nominations than

vacant positions. Then from the full membership of the new

Committee, the meeting shall elect the Chairperson,

Vice-Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer.

ORDINARY GENERAL MEETING:

8. At least one General Meeting shall be held each school year, in addition

to the Annual General Meeting. Notices containing the Agenda of the

meeting shall be sent to members at least one week before the

General Meeting.

SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING:

9. A Special General Meeting shall be summoned by the Secretary on

receipt of a request signed by at least twenty (20) voting members of

the Association, stating the subject to be discussed. At least ten (10)

days notice of such a meeting should be given to members and the

quorum for the meeting shall be fifty (50) voting members.

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Earthquake Drills

During an earthquake drill, at the sound of the bell ringing in batches of 5, students

are encouraged to drop, cover and hold on in the classrooms. They would remain

like that and count to 60 or until a member of the SMT indicates it is safe to move.

They should then follow the general rules of evacuation.

Visitors

Visitors are not allowed in classrooms during contact times. After signing the Visi-

tors’ Book at the security point, they are expected to go straight to the main office

before entering either of the departments. Signing the book is required upon arrival/

departure. A member of the office staff will make contact with staff members as

necessary.

Medicines in School

When a child has an illness that is not considered serious and is regarded by a parent

as fit for school, the parent may request the school to administer a prescribed

medicine to the child.A parent should not send medications to school with a child

without written instructions for administering, signed and dated by the parent.

A designated member of staff or the school nurse will administer all medication.

All medicines are to be retained in the sick bay under the direct care of the school

nurse.

Students with asthma will retain their inhalers in their own classroom. In the case of

younger students, inhalers must be given to the class teacher at the beginning of each

day. Separate arrangements will need to be made with the school nurse for children

with diabetes or other long-term conditions that need medication.

We do not allow cough/throat pastilles to be kept in school. Children must not bring

them into school unless special permission is given by the Principal/Vice Principal

and permission will only be given in exceptional circumstances.

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SUBSCRIPTIONS:

10. Subscriptions shall be such as the Committee shall from time to time

prescribe.

CHANGES TO THE CONSTITUTION:

11. The Constitution shall be changed by the vote of at least a quorum of

executive committee and submitted at the Annual General Meeting

for adoption. Notices containing the proposed changes must be sent

to members at least ten (10) days before the General Meeting.

NOTICES:

12. Notices of all General Meetings shall be deemed to have been

sufficiently given to Members by giving the notice to a child of the

Member or sending direct letter/email.

ASSOCIATION ACCOUNTS:

13. A banking account(s) shall be maintained in the name of the Parent-

Teacher Association of St. Andrew Preparatory School. All revenue

shall be paid into the banking account(s) and withdrawal shall only

be made on the signature of any two (2) persons authorized by the

Committee. The Treasurer shall be responsible for the Account(s) and

Auditors shall be appointed to audit the Account(s) for the ensuing

year.

NOTE: The Committee strongly recommends that the Constitution be

reviewed at least once every three (3) years.

MISSION STATEMENT

We aim to provide education for boys and girls, keeping in mind the five areas of a

child’s development - physical, mental, spiritual,

emotional, social - and to prepare children, in their formative years, to develop

strength of character leading to good citizenship.

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to avoid distinction between drills and actual fires. No advance notice of fire drills

shall be given.

Conducting Fire Drills

The chief purpose of fire drills is to provide an orderly, controlled exit of students and

employees when departing the building and further provide a complete

accountability of students and staff once at the assembly point.

The procedures to be used in conducting drills are as follows:

1. Students form a line quickly and quietly by the door.

2. Doors and windows are to be closed and lights turned off.

3. All persons follow the posted exit route from each classroom. All persons walk to

the designated exit and leave the building in an orderly fashion.

4. Each class shall proceed to its assigned assembly point on the playground.

5. Class teachers are responsible for the supervision and control of their students.

Students are to remain in their assigned location until the all-clear signal (SAMAT

member waving a green flag) is given.

6. Class teachers are required to take roll call and indicate that all are present or give

the name of any student that is absent to a member of the SAMAT.

7. In the event that the alarm sounds during the change of classes or at the end of the

day, students should leave the building under the supervision of the teacher whose

room is nearest to them. All staff will be expected to take charge of the students in

their immediate area. Staff and students should quickly move to designated assembly

point.

8. If the alarm should sound during any lunch period, personnel in or near the

cafeteria should immediately stop serving and assist with the evacuation both inside

and outside of the building. SAMAT should exit the building immediately, check

classrooms to ensure safety of each child then move to the assembly area.

9. In the event that an alarm should sound during a devotional exercise, students will

evacuate the area immediately by following the directions of the supervising teachers.

10. Teachers and students are expected to follow all directions given by SAMAT

members.

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Vision

St. Andrew Preparatory School to always be the school of choice.

Aims

St. Andrew Preparatory School is committed to:

• Achieving and maintaining a clear and shared focus on students’ learning.

• Expanding students’ knowledge, experiences and imaginative understanding

and add to each child’s awareness of moral values and capacity for enjoyment.

• Enabling each child to enter the world after formal education as an active

participant in society and a responsible contributor to it, capable of

functioning with as much independence as possible.

• Effective school leadership which fosters mutual respect and trust.

• High levels of collaboration and communication within our different

communities.

• A curriculum with instruction and assessment aligned to that of the national

standards.

• Continual monitoring of teaching and learning methods, with adjustments

made to meet the individual needs of our students.

• Focused professional development that is reflective of the needs of our staff.

• Creating an environment where everyone feels safe, supported and where

respect and trust are evident.

• Encouraging high levels of parent/community involvement

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National locations. Additionally, debit or credit card payments may be made in the

Main Office. Fees must be paid before school reopens each term. Students will not

be admitted to class unless balances are paid.

Report Cards, Progress Reports and recommendations shall be withheld until fees

are paid in full.

ACCIDENT INSURANCE

Students are covered by medical insurance in the event of accidental injury resulting

in any medical expenses.

Emergency Situation Plans

Safety is the primary concern for all those engaged at St. Andrew Preparatory School.

Emergency situations are dealt with by the Safety Management Team (SAMAT)

Evacuation Drill

The school is required to conduct a fire drill at least three (3) times during every

school year.

On the first day of school and on the first day of each semester, each class teacher will

brief his/her class on the fire drill procedures. Fire drill procedures are posted in each

classroom. Teachers and other staff members are encouraged to report any potential

hazards that could interfere with rapid evacuation through hallways, stairways,

corridors and doors.

Fire Drill Accountability

Each class teacher is required to take attendance for each evacuation. Attendance

must be confirmed using the class register.

Scheduling of Fire Drills

Drills will be executed at various hours of the day, including during the changing of

classes when school is at assembly, during P.E. periods, during playtime, etc. in order

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• Building a learning environment that facilitates different learning styles,

confronts bias, stereotypes and prejudicial attitudes and displays respect

for diversity.

The school motto is “Work, Play and Learn Together”.

Core Values

Commitment

Discipline

Integrity

Love

Respect

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Competitions earn House points.

CLASS REPRESENTATIVES

These are representative volunteers at each Grade Level to help with planning and

fostering support for supervision, field trips and other class activities.

PARTIES & BIRTHDAY TREATS

- are allowed for students in Kindergarten 1 to Grade 2 at a time convenient to the

class teachers.

- are not allowed for students in Grades 3 to 6. However, at the discretion of the class

teacher, a cake may be shared at the end of the school day.

ANNUAL SCHOOL EVENTS

St. Andrew Preparatory School is a buzz of activity all year round. Regular activities

include the Heritage Concert and Grab & Nyam Breakfast, Christmas Play,

Christmas Bazaar, Primary Open Day/Concert, Family Prayers, Prize-giving, Art &

Craft as well as Performing Arts Competitions.

The school also actively participates in Inter-Preparatory Schools’ Sports Competi-

tions such as Football, Netball, Track & Field, Cricket, Lawn Tennis, Table Tennis,

Swimming, Cheerleading, Karate and Chess. We also participate in the National

JCDC Festival Competition, The Gleaner’s National Spelling Bee Competition, Art,

Essay and Science Competitions.

ADMISSION/SCHOOL FEES

Admission is based on applications received and recommendations from staff, parents

or other close friends of the school. A non-refundable registration fee of $1,000.00

(subject to change) is required. In addition, for new students, half of the current

school fee is due and payable on acceptance of a place in the school. The balance

is payable in the third week of August. The child would not be registered to attend

unless fees are paid in full.

Student Cards are issued to parents and guardians for tuition fees. Using the

Student Card, payments may be made at selected branches of Paymaster and Jamaica

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The School Song

Verse 1

As we walk this road together

Hand in hand we’re working side by side

Building our school on a firm foundation

Knowing that our God will be our guide

Chorus

At St. Andrew Prep we work and play

and learn together

Giving our best as we love each other

Knowing that our working hard

will last forever

Serving as we work and play

and learn together

Verse 2

In our hands there lies the future

There is nothing we can’t do

Honesty, integrity in our nation

Are the things that will see us through

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2. Overall Design and Appearance (10 points)

A. Creativity, qualities that make the garden unique

B. Overall layout of the garden

C. Appropriate selection of plants for assigned area (sun vs shade)

D. Application of the competition’s theme.

3. Care and Maintenance (15 points)

A. Pest free (e.g. use of egg shells against slugs and snails)

B. Weed free

C. Disease free

D. Lack of weeds

E. Water/moisture preservation systems e.g. Use of redwood chips,

newspaper (recycling) - mulching.

4. Environmental Consciousness (14 points)

A. Use of eco-friendly materials e.g. Egg shells, newspaper

5. Presence of House Sign (not design) 1 point

Maximum Total – 50 points

HOUSE SYSTEM

Every student, class teacher and some specialist teachers in the Junior Department

are assigned randomly to a House. There are four Houses at St. Andrew Prepara-

tory School which are led by House Teachers and captained by senior students. The

names and colours of the H ouses are as follows:

Alberga - Green

Milner - Blue

Sherlock - Yellow

Watson - Red

All academic and athletic achievement, Art & Craft and Performing Arts

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SCHOOL HOURS

PRIMARY DEPARTMENT

K1 and K2

7:45 am. - 8:20 am. Registration & Devotional Activities

9:40 a.m. - 10:10 am. BREAK

10:10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. PLAY

10:30 a.m. 11:00 am. REST

1:00 p.m. DISMISSAL

1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. TEACHERS ON DUTY

AFTERCARE 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Students are not allowed on the playground after dismissal without supervision.

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES

Contact the department for the schedule

PRIMARY DEPARTMENT

Grades 1 - 2

7:45 am. - 8:20 am. Registration & Devotional Activities

10:00 a.m. - 10:20 am. BREAK

10:20 a.m. - 11:00 am. PLAY

1:30 p.m. DISMISSAL

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. TEACHERS ON DUTY

AFTERCARE 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Students are not allowed on the playground after dismissal without supervision.

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES

Schedule available at the office

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ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

St. Andrew Preparatory School Garden Competition

Purpose

The St. Andrew Preparatory School Garden Competition is an educational,

co-curricular activity to enhance students’ awareness of nature and encourage their

participation in the school’s beautification drive.

Overview

This competition will be held on an annual basis. It requires students to design, plan,

grow and maintain a garden on the school grounds.

Entry is open to students within the Junior Department who will be eligible to

participate through their assigned House. Each House will be assigned a specific area

in which a garden is to be maintained throughout the school year (September to

May). The theme of the competition will be decided each year. Teachers will guide

and assist where necessary the activities associated with the cultivation and

maintenance of each garden. Judging will be undertaken four (4) times per year be-

fore final marks are assigned: November, January, March and May.

Endorsement for the competition will be sought from professional gardening

associations or groups such as The Jamaica Horticultural Society. The winner of the

competition will be awarded the Environmental Trophy.

JUDGING CRITERIA

Criteria (50 points per judging session with a maximum of 150 points):

1. Educational Relevance: (10 points)

A. Identity of the plants i.e. Common and Botanical names of plants

B. Utility of the plants selected

C. Use of garden for inter-disciplinary learning (relevance to the

curriculum)

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JUNIOR DEPARTMENT

Grades 3 & 4

7:45 am. Bell rings

7:45 am. - 7:50 am. Registration

7:50 am. - 8:20 am. Prayers

10:20 a.m. 11:00 am. BREAK

1:40 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. - FORM TIME

2:00 p.m. - DISMISSAL

2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. - PREP ROOM

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES

Contact the office for the schedule

AFTERCARE - 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Students are not allowed on the playground after dismissal without supervision.

JUNIOR DEPARTMENT

Grades 5 & 6

7:45 am. Bell rings

7:45 am. - 7:50 am. Registration

7:50 am. - 8:20 am. Prayers

11:00 a.m. - 11:40 a.m. - BREAK

1:40 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. - FORM TIME

2:00 p.m. - DISMISSAL

2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. - PREP ROOM

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES

Contact the department for the schedule

GSAT Extras

2:10 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. M – W (Term 1)

2:10 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. M – T (Term 2)

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PRIZES TO THE SCHOOL CAPTAINS

AWARDS FOR INDIVIDUAL OUTSTANDING

PERFORMANCES

Trophy for Best Boy Athlete

Trophy for Best Girl Athlete

Award for Creative Writing

Outstanding GSAT Performance for each subject area

OTHER AWARDS FOR INDIVIDUAL OUTSTANDING

PERFORMANCES

THE VALERIE CLACKEN AWARD is given to the Most All-Round Student in the

final year group, in the Primary Department – the Criteria being a good academic

record, good leadership skills, school involvement and school spirit, and discipline.

THE JEAN WATSON AWARD is given to the student in the Junior Department

with the highest average of all the students, based on the year’s assessment of three

terms’ work, by way of class work, two term-tests and a final examination.

THE VAL MILNER AWARD is presented annually to the student at the Grade 6

level who has had the best academic record throughout the years of Grades 4-6, in the

Junior Department, based on internal exams or term grades.

THE BRODERICK AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE, unlike the other main awards,

is given for excellence, either at an individual or group level, whether that excellence

is displayed in the classroom or in the extra-curricular programme.

THE ADELA ANDERSON AWARD FOR STUDENT OF THE YEAR is given

to the final year student adjudged to have made the most outstanding contribution

to the life of the school.

15

AFTERCARE - 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Students are not allowed on the playground after dismissal without supervision.

NB. Teachers in both departments are expected to be in classrooms to receive

children by 7:30 a.m. each morning.

Arrival

Students must arrive at school by 7:45 a.m. Every student must go to the form rooms

when the first bell is rung in the morning. Students who arrive while general assem-

bly is in progress must go directly to the hall or assembly point. Late arrival records

will be placed on end-of-term/year reports.

Day Release

All students requiring day release must present a note from home to the teacher at the

beginning of the school day. Sign-out slips which are available in the office should

be completed by the parent, signed by the Principal and presented to the teacher for

release.

Dismissal (Primary Department)

Children in the Primary Department will remain in their classrooms until 2:30 p.m.,

for pick-up.

Aftercare

At 2:30 p.m., your child will be placed in the Aftercare programme at an hourly rate.

Aftercare ends at 5:00 p.m. each evening. A new hourly rate is applied after 5:00

p.m. Parents must sign before release is granted.

There will be no access to reports or records at the end of the term if there are out-

standing balances for aftercare. Students in the Primary Department are not allowed

to wait in the Junior Department with siblings

Dismissal (Junior Department)

Children in the Junior Department who are still at school at 2:30 p.m. and who are

not taking part in any activity beginning at that time, are required to go to the Prep

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Honour Roll

A student makes the Honour Roll at his/her class level if the following two conditions

are met:

1. He/She has at least 12 merits

2. He/She is among the top 5 in the class

AWARDS

Prize-giving

Awards are earned as follows:

Excellence - 90% and over average

Very Good Work - 80% and over average

Marked Improvement – 10% or more increase in percentage points between the

Easter and Summer examinations.

Prizes are also awarded for outstanding performance in Specialist/Subject areas.

Special Awards

The Good Citizen Award is given to the child in each class who is deemed to have

displayed the qualities of a good citizen in the school community. Such a student

should be a good leader, be one who helps to foster a healthy social atmosphere in

and out of the classroom, is generally helpful and considerate and is exemplary in

behaviour and in his or her attitude towards work and school rules.

Perfect Attendance

- is given to students who had perfect attendance for any academic year, having never

been absent or late.

HOUSE AWARDS

Chin Shield (Rounders)

Cawston Cup (Sports)

Machado Shield (Football)

Environmental Trophy

Most Outstanding House

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Room for one hour, where they will begin their homework or engage in constructive

academic activity quietly.

Aftercare

At 3:30 p.m., your child will be placed in the Aftercare programme at an hourly rate.

Aftercare ends at 5:30 p.m. each evening. A new hourly rate is applied after 5:30

p.m. Parents must sign before release is granted.

There will be no access to reports or records at the end of the term if there are out-

standing balances for aftercare. Students in the Junior Department are not allowed to

wait in the Primary Department with siblings.

Absences

1. A child who is absent from school must bring a written excuse on

returning.

2. No child will be allowed to re-enter school after having a contagious

disease (chicken pox, pink eye and ringworm, etc.) without certification

from a medical doctor stating that he/she is fit to reintegrate.

3. In the case of illness during the school day, the parent/guardian will be

notified and asked that the student be taken if the condition warrants it.

Student Information

1. Contact Details

a. It is important to provide accurate and current information for your

child, e.g. addresses, telephone numbers, emergency contact. These

must be updated regularly.

2. Uniforms

a. The uniform is compulsory in both departments and must be worn

correctly.

b. Children must wear the specified clothing for P.E. only on P.E. days.

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Students must be encouraged to document their findings immediately after each trip.

REPORTING SESSSIONS

Parent Conferences are done during the second term each year.

Other sessions are scheduled throughout the year, based on individual parent/student

needs.

Grading System

Kindergarten 1 - Grade 2 use a checklist reporting style. Teachers check students’

performances in 4 categories – excellent, satisfactory, good, needs improvement.

For Grades 3-6, regular class assignments are averaged and recorded in a Mark Book.

These students do written examinations three times per year. These marks along with

the term averages are recorded and sent home in Report Cards at the end of each

term.

A* 90 - 100 Excellent Work

A 80 - 89 Very Good Work

B+ 70 - 79 Good Work

B 60 – 69 Fairly Good Work

C 50 – 59 Satisfactory

D 40 - 49 Improvement Needed

NS Below 40 Not Satisfactory

Merits are earned for class work and special assignments in all subject areas. In the

Primary Subjects, students earn 2 merits for an A* average and 1 merit for an A

average, calculated each half term. For practical subjects, students earn merits to the

level of skill development and participation.

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c. All belongings should be clearly marked with the child’s name. Please

check the Lost and Found area for items that are misplaced.

d. If a student is out of his/her correct uniform, a written explanation

signed by the parent is required.

e. No jewellery, except a wristwatch, is to be worn by boys. Girls may wear

a wristwatch and if ears are pierced, small gold/silver stubs or sleepers.

Pearls and coloured earrings are not allowed.

f. Hairstyles should be neat and appropriate. Tinting and colouring of

hair will not be allowed. For boys, carved ponytails and trendy styles will

not be allowed.

g. Rastafarians and boys with long hair must ensure that strands are

pulled together and tied back in one.

Guideline for Students

• The following are not allowed in school: weapons, comics, toys, games, cell

phones, CD players and any such item that will cause distraction.

• Students must remain in designated play areas within the specified times.

• Stone-throwing is strictly forbidden.

• At no time should any student verbally or physically assault any other student,

faculty member, or any other adult on the compound in any way.

• Students found: damaging, defacing, stealing school or other personal property,

will be required to pay for damage or loss and may face suspension from school.

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Primary Department – Open Day

In the Primary Department, ‘Open Day/Concert’ are held alternate years. Both

events showcase the work of all the students. Open Day is in the form of the Visual

Arts while the Concert will reflect the Performing Art forms.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

In addition to the formal curriculum, students benefit from a range of extra-

curricular activities – some free, others attracting a fee. Each student is urged to

participate in at least one, but not more than three, extra-curricular activity. A list of

activities is available at the beginning of the school year. Forms may be downloaded

from the school’s website.

FIELD TRIPS

Field Trips are an essential part of the academic programme. Most field trips are

designed for all grade levels, but occasionally an individual class will arrange its own

special experience. Students will not be allowed to participate unless parents give

written permission.

• Permission slips will be sent home for parents’ signatures

• All students should be dressed according to his/her class teacher’s

instructions. If a child arrives at school inappropriately dressed, he/she

will be left at school with another teacher for the day.

• Every child should own a red school shirt for special occasions.

• Parents who travel independently to field trip locations are not allowed to

remove their children from regular activities unless they are on spot when

students are returning to school. All instructions must be given by class

teachers unless the parent was invited to help.

• Parents participating in field trips are not allowed to smoke or consume

alcoholic beverages.

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• The use of indecent language is strictly forbidden

• There must be no running along corridors, walkways, driveways, and parking lot

or in classrooms.

• Students may not engage in selling to or buying items from each other.

• Placing notices on Notice Boards or blackboards is strictly forbidden unless

directed to do so by a member of staff.

• Dishonesty and theft will not be tolerated.

Students Shadows shall

(a) follow all school rules as they apply to staff and students

(b) keep a running record of Charge’s level of progress in all subject areas

(c) ensure that Charge develops independence and life skills

(d) learn the programmes used by the class teachers and Resource teacher

(e) maintain confidentiality as it relates to students, parents, staff and

school business.

Daily Procedure (Junior Department)

Students must go to their form rooms when the first bell is rung in the mornings.

They should get their Hymnals and Bibles and await instructions from the class

teacher or Prefect in charge before moving to the hall or designated devotion areas.

There should be no noise.

Lines should be formed at the designated spot on the playground at the end of break.

The teacher in charge will conduct an activity then give instructions for movement.

27

Homework Notebook

Each form has a Homework Timetable and each child keeps a Notebook in which

the homework for each day is recorded. Spot checks are to be made by teachers to

see that the homework is being recorded. Form time, at the end of each day, provides

opportunity for children to organize the books and materials needed for that

evening’s homework.

Projects

At times, children may be working on projects which will last over a few weeks.

During this time, it is likely that no other homework in this subject would be given.

Rubrics will be provided by each teacher in order to guide students on the weighing

of different aspects of the project assignment.

Rubrics will also be given to students when assignments such as letter writing,

creative writing, concept mapping, drawing, model making and group work are

given.

Role of Parents and Guardians in Supporting Students

Parents/guardians should:

• provide a reasonably peaceful, suitable place in which their child/children can

do homework.

• make it clear to their child/children that they value homework and support the

school in explaining how it can help their learning

• encourage children and praise them when they have completed homework.

Early Work

Work will be set for students who arrive at school before the first bell rings. This is to

ensure that children are occupied when they arrive. It is each student’s responsibility

to complete the early work.

19

There should be no noise while in lines at the canteen, outside classrooms or on the

way to classes.

Students should not start eating until seated. Students in the Junior Department are

not to be in classrooms during the breaks unless by special permission. Food is not to

be eaten in the classrooms, Library, Resource Room, Art Room, Science or

Computer Laboratories. All lunch papers and cartons are to be put in the bins.

Care should be taken in using the facilities/school property. Any child caught

damaging facilities will be penalized and parents asked to cover the cost of damages.

• No child should leave the school premises during school hours without

permission.

• School ends at 2:00 p.m. and Prep Room runs from 2:30 p.m. to

3:30 p.m. Students should be collected after school ends at 2:00 p.m.

unless taking part in an afternoon activity.

• The school must be informed in writing if children will be walking to

and/or from school alone.

• Money/wallets, student cards and other valuables must not be left in or

on the desks or in school bags unattended.

• Small items found must be taken to the Guidance Counsellor. Larger

items must be placed in the LOST and FOUND areas.

• Each child is responsible for tidying his/her area in the classroom at

the end of each day.

• Text books and Library books belonging to the school are only loaned to

the students. Lost or defaced books must be paid for or replaced.

26

Quality

First and foremost, any homework assignments must relate to the present curriculum

and it should link to school experiences rather than being an end in itself.

Secondly, such assignments must be well within the capabilities of students and they

should be related to student interests whenever possible. Furthermore, these

assignments should be preceded by thoughtful motivation and direction. Finally, any

homework assignment should be designed to elicit student assimilation of facts and

drawing of inferences rather than merely requiring them to copy information.

Under no circumstances will homework be used as disciplinary action or

punishment.

Illness is considered the only valid excuse for homework not being done and the

parent should send a written excuse to this effect – otherwise, the consequences for

homework not being completed will be left to the discretion of the teacher.

Throughout the Junior Department, children are expected to do three pieces of

homework each day. English and Mathematics are set daily while Social Studies,

Literature, Science and Religious Education are set for one specific night each week.

Homework may consist of either written or oral work or reading. Many children tend

to regard only written work as “real homework,” but oral preparation is just as

important and may require more time than written exercises, if it is to be done

properly.

Clarity

Students must be entirely clear about their homework assignments. The how, what,

when, where, why and how many questions must be answered for every assignment.

20

• Students should show respect for themselves, for other students, all adults

in the school and show respect for all property.

• Take responsibility for their own actions at all times and in all places.

• Practise safety at all times

Areas Out Of Bounds During Playtime (Junior Department)

1. Outside the Principal’s Office

2. Outside the Staff Room

3. Outside the windows of the Administrative Block

4. Outside the Hall

5. The Car Park

6. The Security Point at the front of the school

All Junior students must be picked up in the Junior Department - NO WAITING

OUTSIDE THE HALL AREA.

High School students are not allowed to come and wait at the Preparatory School.

If they come to pick up siblings, they should do so promptly.

METHODS OF DISCIPLINE

Classroom Controls

When it becomes necessary to correct student behaviour, the classroom teacher will

institute measures that are most appropriate for the individual student. Some

corrective interventions include counselling the student, detentions, removing play

privileges, warning marks, demerits, parent-teacher conferences and referrals to the

Principal.

25

Deadlines are set each term and parents are informed of the school’s expectations.

Closer to the date of the display, an electronic copy of each student’s work is sent to

his/her parent for printing and binding. Parents and friends are invited to share in

the book-signing activity to motivate our student writers.

Homework Guidelines

The frequency and quantity of homework varies from Kindergarten to Grade 6 and

all students are expected to complete satisfactorily all homework given. In the event

of problems encountered with homework, the class teacher must be informed

immediately. Teachers will provide clear guidance to parents with which to support

their children.

Purpose of Homework

We believe that there is enormous advantage in children spending regular periods of

time on various learning activities devised by schools, as part of a homework

programme which supports the work they do in school.

• Homework should be part of an effective partnership between the school

and parents in pursuing the aims of the school.

• Homework should consolidate and reinforce skills and understanding,

especially in literacy and numeracy.

• Homework should extend school learning, for example through

additional reading.

• Homework should encourage students as they get older to develop the

confidence and self discipline needed to study on their own and prepare

them for the requirements of high school.

21

Merit/Demerit System (Junior Department)

This is a method whereby a graduated point system is used for rewards and offences.

Both Merits and Demerits are counted at regular intervals throughout each term.

Children who have acquired demerits during each period are required to serve a

detention on a date set just after the reading out of the lists.

In addition, all demerits must be entered in a special book as soon as they are given.

The teacher concerned is required to give the date and the reason for the demerit and

to initial this.

Suspension

This action is taken at the discretion of the Principal and involves parental consulta-

tion. Any student who acquires more than 3 demerits, for repeated misbehaviour, is

subject to a stay-home suspension from school or an in-house suspension. This means

that the student will be confined to an area and suspended from all activities.

Expulsion

This action is taken in extreme cases of disruptive or harmful behaviour. When all

corrective measures, including Principal intervention, have been exhausted and there

is no improvement in the student’s behaviour, the student will be expelled. These

penalties have been devised in the hope that they may help children to accept

responsibility for their own actions and their consequences. The support of parents

is vital in modifying students’ behaviour.

24

The CURRICULUM

St. Andrew Preparatory School offers a wide variety of subjects including English

Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Religious Education, Spanish,

Music, Drama, P.E. Art and Craft, Computer Studies & Media Literacy.

The school boasts a Science Laboratory, Computer Laboratory and Media Room.

One of the distinct features of St. Andrew Preparatory School is its emphasis on

catering to the needs of every learner. There are two Resource Rooms, (one in each

department), that provide a place for students with special needs to receive individual

or small group attention.

Grade 6 Exposition in Term 3

Each year during the Summer Term in the Junior Department, we roster the

following exhibitions to feature our children’s talents and efforts.

(a) Science or Social Studies (Grades 3 – 5)

(b) Science/Social Studies/Technology (Grade 6)

(c) Writers’ Expo

(a) Class Teachers meet each year to discuss a new focus and standard of the

displays. Students are assigned individual and group projects. On the

expo days, parents and visitors view displays based on a schedule.

Grades are assigned for the activities.

(b) The Grade 6 activities after GSAT are geared to prepare them for Grade 7.

Students are grouped and assigned topics for research and presentation

The Writers’ Expo

is as a result of the pieces of written work (poetry, fiction/non fiction/comic strip)

produced over the period of 3 terms in Media Literacy and Computer classes.

22

DEPARTMENT

Primary Department(K1 - Grade 2)

Junior Department(Grade 3 - Grade 6)

Blue bush jacketKhaki shortsBlack shoesNavy blue socks ( ankle socks

not allowed )

Red and white school t-shirtNavy blue shortsPlain white socks

( ankle socks

not allowed )White running shoes

P.E. Uniform

BOYS GIRLS

Blue dress orBlue shirt & Khaki skortBlack shoesNavy blue socks ( ankle socksnot allowed )Navy, white, black, brown or blue hair accessoriesNo beads

Red and white school t-shirtNavy blue shortsPlain white socks

( ankle socks

not allowed )White running shoes

P.E. Uniform

Blue bush jacketKhaki shortsBlack shoesNavy blue socks ( ankle socks

not allowed )

House t-shirtNavy blue shortsPlain white socks

( ankle socks

not allowed )

House t-shirtNavy blue shortsPlain white socks ( ankle socks

not allowed )White running shoes

P.E. Uniform

Blue dress

orBlue shirt & Khaki skortBlack shoesNavy blue socks ( ankle socksnot allowed )Navy, white, black, brown orblue hair accessoriesNo beads

P.E. Uniform

UNIFORM

Special OccasionsBoysBlack PantsWhite ShirtBlack ShoesBlack SocksNeck Tie

BoysBlack SkirtWhite BlouseBlack ShoesWhite Socks

23

Contact Us2-6 Cecelio Avenue,

Kingston 10.

Telephone: 1- 876 - 618 - 14431- 876 - 618 - 14441- 876 - 926 - 03881- 876 - 926 - 03631- 876 - 920 - 57291- 876 - 920 - 5728

Website: standrewprep.com

Main Email Address: standrewprep@cwjamaica.comOther Email Address: playandlearntogether@gmail.com