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SCHOOL PROSPECTUS

ST MARY’S R.C. PRIMARY SCHOOL Victoria Road, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6EP

Headteacher AM Davies

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Contents

Topic Page

Contents 2

Welcome 3

Introducing St Mary’s 4

Our Mission 5

School Aims 6

School Objectives 7

Care and support 8

Staffing Structure 9

Basic Information about the school 10

School Organisation 11

The Curriculum 12 - 14

Assessing pupil progress 15

Homework, Behaviour and Medical Matters 16

Attendance, Holidays and School Uniform 17

Jewellery, Administration, Parent Help 18

Complaints, Reporting, Special Needs, Gifted and talented 19

Safeguarding and Educational Visits 19 - 20

Sports and Extra-Curricular Activities 20

Breakfast Club and After School Childcare 20

End of Key Stage Results 21 - 22

Admissions Policy 2019 23 - 26

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Welcome!

If you are considering applying for a place at St Mary’s then we hope that the

information in the following pages encourage you to choose us as your child’s

primary school. If you already have a child here, then we are delighted to continue

the links between us. I sincerely hope that you, your children and your family have a

very happy time here as part of our school family.

Home, school and parish together form a valuable and important partnership. In a

caring, Catholic atmosphere we encourage our children to develop and mature in

the light of the Gospel values with a Christian concern for others. We hope to

provide a Catholic education rooted in the following principles: respect for life, love,

solidarity, truth and justice; linking faith and culture to build a better society.

We hope that our partnership will assist our children to develop their potential to the

highest levels of achievement.

There are regular communications between school and home, as well as parents’

evenings and many other opportunities to visit school. However, if you need to know

anything more at all about St Mary’s, please do not hesitate to ask. Your child’s

teacher or I will be happy to make arrangements to answer your questions or

discuss your comments and suggestions.

We are all striving to provide the best possible caring education for our children. The

governors, pupils and staff of St Mary’s welcome you to our school family.

With kind regards

Anne -Marie Davies

Mrs AM Davies

Head teacher

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Introducing St Mary’s

St Mary’s is a voluntary aided primary (4 – 11) co-educational school attached to the

parish of St Mary’s, Chorley New Rd, Horwich, Bolton in the Diocese of Salford.

There are 220 pupils currently on roll (September 2019) and we have a standard

number of 30 places per year group in Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 with 32

places per year group in Key Stage 2.

The site on which the school now stands was originally opened as Holy Family School in 1894. In 1996 Holy Family School was amalgamated with ‘Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School’ to create St. Mary's, taking the parish name. The two schools occupied two different sites until May 1st 2002 when, after a major building project, they came together on this one site. Since then the school has had two further major building projects to create a learning environment that meets the needs of the children.

The school is near the centre of Horwich and is a vital part of the Parish community. It is very closely situated to our feeder secondary school, St. Joseph's, with whom there are excellent links.

There is a bright central hall, which is used for assemblies, masses, lunch, physical education and other school activities. The school employs state of the art equipment in a modern setting in order to cater for pupils from Reception age to Year 6. We do not have our own Nursery but have strong links with over twelve separate Nursery providers.

We have a wealth of additional resources such as a chaplaincy room, prayer garden, library, football pitch, ICT suite and equipment, break-out areas for group work and curriculum storage areas. We place particular emphasis on outdoor learning and are fortunate to have a small allotment and chicken enclosure.

Many parents attended the school and indeed some grandparents have been pupils.

The parish has a great pride in the school and one of its hallmarks is the quality of relationships which exist among staff, parents and parishioners. This is thanks to the commitment of our parish priests, Monsignor John Daly VG, Father Richard Howard our curate and our previous Parish Priests, Deacon Harry Jones and Father Barry O’Sullivan.

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OUR MISSION STATEMENT

We care, we pray, we work, we play,

in Jesus’ way…

Aims and Values We Care and aim to develop a well-ordered community based upon the Gospel values, in which the children feel happy, valued, secure and confident so that they can fully take part in the life of the school. We Play in harmony. We see ourselves as a loving and happy community following Christ’s way and aim to promote all aspects of the physical and emotional well-being of each child. We Work to ensure that the curriculum provided for our children is broad and balanced so that they can grow in knowledge and understanding. We work to develop the skills which will enable all children throughout the ability range to achieve their full potential. We Pray that this is a school where the truth of the faith is experienced. A place where children are involved and take part in teaching and learning which will encourage a sense of wonder and response to God’s gift of life and creation. A place where everyone feels fully involved in the opportunities provided for prayer, worship and liturgy.

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Aims of St Mary’s School Ensure Catholic values are an integral part of all we do.

Cherish each child as an individual, respecting their rights, values and beliefs.

Deliver effective, professional teaching within a loving Christian and Catholic

environment.

Provide a broad and balanced curriculum, which enables pupils to achieve their

potential in terms of academic achievement, aesthetic appreciation and spiritual

development.

Identify and monitor the needs of each child according to ability and aptitude.

Develop a range of skills and an enquiring and investigative approach to English,

Mathematics, Science and the Creative Curriculum.

Foster links between home, parish and the local community, promoting good

relationships and a sense of belonging.

Prepare children for their future in our multi-cultural society by developing

awareness and respect for other people’s attitudes and beliefs.

Give equal opportunities for personal success in all aspects of school life.

Offer a well-ordered environment in which all are fully aware of behavioural

expectations.

Encourage self-discipline and respect for others, encouraging, praising and

positively reinforcing good behaviour, wholesome relationships and application to

work.

Work as a team supporting and encouraging one another.

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St Mary’s School Objectives To foster in the pupils a love and knowledge of the Catholic faith To place pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and, within this, the promotion of fundamental British values, at the heart of the school’s work To provide a consistently secure, safe and happy atmosphere within which learning can take place To enable individuals to maximize their full potential morally, physically, socially and intellectually To enable children to learn how to look after themselves and develop self-confidence To enable children to understand, appreciate and respect the feelings and interests of others To enable children to acquire and develop the basic skills necessary to take their place in modern society To assist children in exploring, discovering and learning about their own environment and that of wider society To provide good role models by being punctual, well-prepared and organised To maintain up-to-date knowledge of the National Curriculum To ensure that learning is progressive and continuous To recognise and monitor the needs of each child according to ability and aptitude To have a positive attitude to change and professional development To work with a shared vision and philosophy

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Care and support

We operate a number of schemes in school which aim to ensure that older pupils

are responsible whilst, at the same time, younger pupils are put at ease and made

to feel welcome as part of the St Mary’s family.

These include our Year 6 prefects, school council members and our Pupil

Chaplain/G.I.F.T. Team. Those elected to be part of these systems undertake a

variety of tasks and activities designed to give them a sense of being part of a

family. Examples of activities undertaken are school council learning walks, leading

assemblies and acting as ambassadors.

School Council

What inspectors said about St Mary’s: ‘St Mary’s provides a very warm, welcoming and inclusive environment where committed staff have high expectations

of the pupils. The strong welcoming tradition of the school is maintained through deep faith commitment and a

genuine supporting ethos from all staff, children and governors. A shared knowledge and understanding of Christian

beliefs and gospel values support the school’s distinctive ethos. The school welcomes visitors, parents, and members

of the wider community with love and respectful care. This helps to build solid relationships and lasting partnerships.

Children who are new to the school are quickly made to feel welcome and valued as members of the school

community. One parent was able to say that she had considered a number of schools before deciding to send her

child to St. Mary’s. One of the main reasons for this decision was that when she came to the school ‘as the door

opened, the love just poured out’. Staff and children are very happy in the school. They share the love of Christ readily

with visitors, communicate very confidently and show a very real desire to involve everyone in the life of the school. ‘

(Quote from RE Inspection carried out in accordance with Section 48)

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Staffing Structure – September 2019

Headteacher Mrs AM Davies

Deputy Headteacher Mrs S Shaw

EYFS: Reception Mrs S Shaw KS1: Year 1 Miss P Cusani Year 2 Mrs C Hesketh KS2: Year 3 Miss E Burke Year 4 Mrs D Ford Year 5 Miss V Woodcraft Year 6 Mrs L Speakman

Miss L Bickerdike Mr S Priestley

HLTAs: Mrs E Christian Mrs L Makinson Mrs L Wallace Mrs T Watkiss

TAs: Miss N Cornwell Mrs A Daniels Mrs N Oldham Mrs J Sherlock

SPECIAL NEEDS COORDINATOR Miss L Bickerdike

SCHOOL BUSINESS MANAGER: Mrs E Travers

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT/SMSA: Mrs K Martin

SITE MANAGER: Mr A Hartop

CLEANERS: Mr G Mathomes Miss J Horsfield SMSAs: Mrs K McCaffery Mrs U Coward Mrs K Martin Mrs L Smethurst Mrs H Thomasson Mrs J Turnbull OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB: Manager Mrs E Travers Assistant Manager Mrs J Walker Childcare Assistants Miss N Cornwell Miss J Horsfield Mrs M May Mrs A McHugh

FRENCH TEACHER Madame Carr

MUSIC PROVISION Rhapsody Academy Bolton Music Service

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Basic Information about the School

Address: St Mary’s RC Primary School Victoria Road Horwich Bolton Greater Manchester BL6 6EP Telephone: (01204) 333625 Fax: (01204) 333626 Email: office@st-marys-horwich.bolton.sch.uk Headteacher: Mrs AM Davies GOVERNORS: Chair of Governors: Mr J Shannon Vice Chair: Mr S Carr Foundation Governors: Mrs E Gillies Mrs R Good Mrs A McKellen Mrs I Tomkins Parent Governor: Mr L McBride Mrs E Taylor Staff Governor: Miss Bickerdike Mrs AM Davies (Headteacher) LA Governor: Cllr M Murray Diocese: Monsignor John Daly VG Clerk to the Governors: Mrs C Brooks DETAILS: Number on Roll: 220 (September 2019) School Improvement Professional: Mrs D Aldred

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School Organisation

School Starts: 8.55am Children should not arrive before 8.45am (official time for Members of the Senior Leadership team to be on duty) Mid-morning Break: 10.30am – 10.45am Lunch Break: 12.15pm – 1.15pm 12.00pm – 1pm (When participating in PE) School Finishes: 3.15pm

Assemblies / Masses/Collective Acts of Worship Whole school assemblies take place on Monday and Friday mornings. Other opportunities for Key Stages to gather together to take part in Mass or collective acts of worship are afforded at different times during the Church’s liturgical year.

Lunch Times There are two lunchtime arrangements:

1. School meals are available and are currently free to children in Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 under the Government’s Universal Free School Meals initiative. School dinners for pupils in KS2 cost £1.70 daily/ £8.50 weekly. Parents are reminded that they should still apply for Free School Meals via the Local Authority, if entitled – irrespective of the age of the child. The school receives extra funding for pupils who are eligible for statutory free meals.

2. Healthy packed lunches may be brought in and eaten on the premises.

Class Organisation: Children start school in St Mary’s at the beginning of the school year in which they will reach the age of 5. They go into the Reception Class. The classes after that are called Years 1 – 6. I general, children transfer to St Joseph’s RC High School, Horwich at the end of Year 6.

Transition into Reception Class: We have a carefully tailored transition programme for all children that are welcomed into Reception. This includes:

New Parents’ Information Evening

Visits into Reception Class for parents and children in the summer term preceding admission to school

Visits from the Reception teacher to the child’s pre-school setting

Reduced timetable for the first two weeks in Reception in order for staff to get to know each child well

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The Curriculum

St Mary’s RC Primary School National Curriculum

Teachers and pupils at St Mary’s RC School follow the National Curriculum (Sept 2014). The main intent of the Government is to raise standards. The National Curriculum is designed to be challenging, with the content focusing on essential core subject knowledge and skills. St Mary’s RC

Primary implements a broad and balanced curriculum with high academic/vocational/technical ambition for all pupils. We have built a curriculum with appropriate coverage, content, structure and sequencing. The impact is that we aim to enable all groups and individuals to acquire the knowledge and cultural capital they need to succeed in life.

Religious Education

St Mary’s is a school where children make good to outstanding progress in all areas of the

curriculum including RE. The RE scheme used is based on guidance from the Salford Diocese; it

very much reflects the school’s mission. We consider RE to be more than a core subject; it is the

core of the core! RE is delivered through ‘Come and See lessons, discussion, class liturgies,

Lectio Divina, whole school worship and Masses. The school incorporates the 5 W’s outlined

below into all aspects of our school life:

The 5 W’s

In order that we might have life in all its fullness our school family will:

Word Place the word of God at the centre of all we do.

Welcome Warmly welcome everyone to our school as Jesus welcomes us to the family of

God.

Welfare Love, value and respect each other as Jesus intended and reach out to those who

need us everywhere making God’s world a better place.

Worship Worship the Lord, our God, joyfully with all our hearts.

Witness Be witness of a loving God, who is at the heart of all we do, by creating a happy

atmosphere, lasting friendships and lifelong memories grounded in the teaching

of the Gospels and a personal relationship with Christ.

English

The overarching aim for English at St Mary’s is to promote high standards of Literacy by equipping

pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word, and to develop their love of

literature through widespread reading for enjoyment and for information. There is a strong

emphasis on vocabulary development, grammar, punctuation and spelling. Handwriting is

expected to be fluent, legible and speedy.

We aim to ensure that all pupils read easily, fluently and with good understanding, but most

important we wish to instil in our children a love of reading and as a key tool for learning. Pupils

are expected to write clearly, accurately and coherently adapting their language and style in and

for a range of contexts. Pupils will be encouraged to take part in debates, make formal

presentations and elaborate and explain their understanding and ideas clearly.

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Maths

Mathematics is a creative subject that is essential to everyday life. Through access to a high

quality education, children are encouraged to become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics

through frequent, varied practice using concrete resources (including basic skills, maths games

and the use of IT). They are also given opportunities to reason mathematically by enquiring,

justifying and forming relationships and solving a range of problems.

The National Curriculum is challenging: 5 Year olds are expected to understand and use numbers

to 20. They learn number bonds to 20 - pairs of numbers that make 20. Simple Fractions (¼ and

½) are taught from Key Stage 1 (Year 1) and by the end of Primary School children should be able

to convert decimal fractions to simple fractions (e.g. 0.6 =3/5). By the age of nine children are

expected to know times tables up to 12 x 12.

Science

At St Mary’s we follow the National Curriculum programme of study for Science. We believe that

children should be engaged and motivated to study science through stimulating and practical

lessons. We aim to ensure all pupils develop scientific knowledge and understanding of concepts,

whilst relating it to the real world. We also aim to develop in the children different types of scientific

enquiry through investigations and practical work as often as possible, allowing the pupils to find

things out for themselves. We promote STEM activities that link science with other subjects, giving

the pupils an understanding of the uses and implications of science in the world.

Geography

Our geography education is designed to inspire in pupils a curiosity and fascination about the world and its people that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. The curriculum reflects the school’s local context. We are building a rich and relevant curriculum with appropriate coverage, content, structure and sequencing, contributing to outstanding learning and achievement. Pupils, and particular groups of pupils, have planned educational experiences in geography and these ensure that they are well equipped for the next stage of their education. Pupils’ high levels of literacy, appropriate to their age, contribute to their learning and achievement. The subject makes an outstanding contribution to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. We aim to equip pupils with knowledge about their locality but also diversity of places, people, resources and natural and human environments, together with a deep understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes. As pupils progress, their growing knowledge about the world will help them to deepen their understanding of the interaction between physical and human processes, and the formation and use of landscapes and environments. We pride ourselves in being an eco-friendly school.

History

Our comprehensive history education will help pupils gain a coherent knowledge of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. It will inspire pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past including local history. Teaching will equip pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. History helps pupils to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups, as well as their own identity and the challenges of their time. The subject makes a valuable contribution to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Practice in learning and teaching of History reflects the highest expectations of staff and the highest aspirations for pupils, including disabled pupils and those with special educational needs.

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Design/Technology

Design and Technology gives children the opportunity to develop skill, knowledge and

understanding of designing and making functional products. At St Mary’s, we feel it is vital to

nurture creativity and innovation through design, and by exploring the designed and made world in

which we all live and work. Pupils need to build and apply a repertoire of knowledge,

understanding and skills in order to design and make high quality prototypes and products for a

range of users. They will then need to evaluate and test their ideas and products. Furthermore,

pupils need to understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook. Certificates

are given out termly to promote Design & Technology.

Computing

The computing curriculum equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand

and change the world. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the

principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this

knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are

equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content.

Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express

themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a

level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Art and Design

Throughout the school Art and Design are covered within the context of cross curricular links with

other subjects in the termly planning. Basic art skills are taught including sketching, shading,

painting, mixing colours, producing clay sculptures and collage. A range of media are used and a

variety of techniques, e.g. batique, montage. Children are encouraged to produce their own ideas

and every child’s work is deemed special and noteworthy. Termly certificates are given out to

reward effort and achievements.

Music

Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity. The first class

music education provided at St Mary’s should engage and inspire our pupils to develop a love of

music and their talent as musicians, and so increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of

achievement. As pupils progress, they will develop a critical engagement with music, allowing

them to compose, and to listen to music with discernment. The school works closely with Bolton

Music service to enhance pupils’ experience and provide pupils with wider opportunities.

Languages

A modern foreign language is mandatory in Key Stage 2. In the juniors, children will be expected

to master basic grammar and accurate pronunciation and to converse, present, read and write in

the language. Our chosen language is French. At St Mary’s French is taught throughout the school

from Reception to Y6 by specialist teacher Madame Carr.

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PE

All pupils are inspired to succeed and excel in competitive sport and other physically demanding

activities. St Mary’s provides opportunities for pupils to become physically confident in a way

which supports their health and fitness. Opportunities to compete in sport and other activities build

character and help to embed values such as fairness and respect. St Mary’s has close links to

Bolton Arena, St Joseph’s High School, Rivington and Blackrod High School. Competitions and

sporting opportunities are organised throughout the year by these three organisations. The School

Games Mark is a government led awards scheme to reward schools for their commitment to the

development of competition across their school and into the community. We are proud to

announce that in July 2019 St Mary’s was awards Gold Mark for academic year 2018-19.

Assessing Pupil Progress

Children in Foundation Stage, Years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 will be assessed according to the age related

expectations as laid out in the National Curriculum. Each year group is in a stage. In each stage

there are 6 steps.

Emerging (starting this year group’s learning)

Developing (working within the expectations with this year group’s learning)

Secure low (beginning to understand and use the content of this year group’s learning)

Secure (good understanding of the content of this year group’s learning)

Secure high (full understanding and use of the content of this year group’s learning in context)

Mastery (deep and thorough understanding of the content of this year group’s learning and ability to apply it in other contexts)

It is expected that all pupils will make at least four progress steps over the course of the academic

year. Five progress steps show a child making good progress, with six steps meaning a child has

made excellent progress over the year. Progression statements are used by teachers to assess

pupils’ knowledge and understanding and ascertain their progress and plan next steps

accordingly.

Some children, because of their individual needs and demands of the curriculum may be working

at a lower year group’s expectations. Some children who are exceeding the year group

expectations will be expected to deepen their understanding of their year group’s targets and may

be classed as working at mastery level. In all cases we aim to teach at the point of learning and

take into account different learning styles and abilities.

Challenge

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Staff assess children by looking at their work, examining previous test results, talking to previous

teachers and questioning pupils. We monitor progress across the year and take part in cross

school moderation, working closely with BOSCEP, the Bolton partnership of Catholic Schools, the

Horwich and Blackrod learning Community and the Local Authority, to maintain our high

expectations and standards. We, as a school, are determined to ensure that we rise to the

challenge of the national curriculum and continue to strive to raise standards for all children in all

groups.

Year 2 participate in Reading and Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling and Maths tests which are

marked by the class teacher. Writing is assessed by the teacher from work produced over the

year. Year 6 sit externally marked tests in Reading and Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling and

Maths. Writing will continue to be assessed by school staff with external moderation by the Local

Authority in July 2019 on a random basis. Writing Assessment and SATs are reported to parents

in July and nationally in the autumn term.

Homework We have a homework policy, which is available to parents. Every child has a home/school reading record and it helps if parents share books and read with their children regularly. Children in Y1-Y6 have written work or spellings, learning tables, or finding out information. In the interests of your child, we ask that you support your child’s learning at home. Academic research points strongly to the fact that supervision by a parent can greatly help and encourage a child and that taking this kind of interest greatly enhances a child’s life chances. Encouraging Positive Behaviour St Mary’s seeks to create a happy atmosphere of mutual respect between everyone in our school family. The most important rule is the school ethos: ‘We care, we pray, we work, we play in Jesus’ way’. We expect pupils to behave sensibly. Children should come to school ready to work and do their best.

We expect high standards of behaviour in school at all times. Bad language, bullying, stealing and aggression towards others are not acceptable.

The school has a behaviour Policy which incorporates an anti-bullying policy. Every class has developed their own rules, rewards and consequences. These are displayed prominently. If there are any problems in school we will contact you at an early stage. If you have any concerns or worries, please come to see us straight away. We want to work together, with you and your child, to solve any difficulties as soon as possible.

Medical Matters If your child has a serious or recurring medical problem, it is important that we know about it in case a problem arises in school. Please inform the Headteacher of any such problems. If your child needs regular medication, please discuss the arrangements with the Headteacher beforehand. Children should NEVER bring any medicine to school without our knowledge. Children suffering from sickness or diarrhea should stay home and not return to school until they have been well for 48 hours. We consult the Local Health Authority’s Communicable diseases table, and advise parents accordingly when more serious illnesses have been diagnosed.

If your child becomes ill at school, we always try to contact parents by telephone to arrange for you to collect them. Normal first aid is available in school for minor accidents, but for cases of real emergency, it is vital that we have a telephone contact number for every child. Hospitals are unwilling to administer treatment if a parent is not present. We also need to know the name of your child’s family doctor.

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When your child is absent from school it is essential that you let us know on the first day of absence and telephone each day that they are absent.

For routine hospital and clinic appointments, children can be collected from the office by prior arrangement. A copy of appointment cards should be given to the office. We cannot allow children to leave school alone to meet a parent for an appointment. If there are any changes in routine (e.g. car breakdown), a telephone call will enable us to meet your wishes and safeguard your child. Where ever possible, routine medical appointments should be made outside school hours. Your child will receive sight, hearing and dental checks. New entrants to reception will have a full medical. School has 4 qualified first aiders. Your local school clinic is: Bolton School Nursing Service Great Lever Health Centre Rupert Street Great Lever Bolton BL3 6 RN Tel: (01204) 463683 Attendance and Holidays Our school’s Educational Welfare Officer, Mrs Anne Macdonald, checks attendance registers on a regular basis. Under national regulations, all absences are recorded as ‘Authorised’ or ‘Unauthorised’. Children who are late must report to the school office and may be given either an absent mark or late mark depending on the time of their arrival. Please ensure that you inform school on the first day of your child’s absence and, on the return to school, please send in a written note. If you need to take your child out of school for any reason, please call at the office. Holiday Absence The right to authorise holiday leave rests with the school, not with parents. Head teachers should not grant leave of absence unless there are exceptional circumstances. A letter of application must be made in advance and the head teacher must be satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances based on the individual facts and circumstances of the case which warrant the leave. Where a leave of absence is granted, the head teacher will determine the number of days a pupil can be away from school. A leave of absence is granted entirely at the head teacher’s discretion. HOLIDAYS WILL ONLY BE AUTHORISED UNDER EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES School Uniform We feel that our school uniform contributes to a sense of belonging to the school family. It also helps our children to realise that their school is a place of purpose. The uniform at St Mary’s consists of:

Burgundy sweatshirt or cardigan (with the school logo – no other logo is permitted).

White polo shirt (preferably with school logo – no other logo is permitted).

Grey school trousers, pinafore dress or skirt.

Grey tights can be worn as part of the winter uniform.

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Red and white check gingham dress (Summer uniform)

Grey shorts (Summer uniform)

White or grey socks

Sensible black leather school shoes (no trainers or sandals)

PE uniform is a white t-shirt, navy loose blue shorts and pumps.

PE kits should be kept in school in a suitable drawstring PE bag.

Children in KS2, are permitted to bring a burgundy school tracksuit on their PE day All uniform must be labelled with the child’s name. Uniform which is ordered via the school’s supplier has the child’s name pre-printed on the label which saves a lot of worry and expense. We expect children to be able to dress and undress themselves for PE (help will be given to young children if necessary). Old shirts or pinafores are helpful for art/craft. Footwear - For health and safety reasons the children should come to school in sensible black leather school shoes without heels or sling back type shoes. Pumps or suitable trainers are needed for PE and sports. Children must always wear socks. Hair – Children are expected to have appropriate hairstyles. Extreme hairstyles are unacceptable, as are hair motifs, gelled and dyed hair. Ribbons or clips should be discrete and in school colours. Jewelry in School In the interests of health and safety:

Chains, pendants, bracelets, bangles, rings, nose studs and other similar items are not allowed.

Earrings should not be worn in school.

Children are not allowed to wear nail varnish. Mobile phones are not allowed in school, except for pupils in Years 5 and 6, unless under special circumstances. Children in upper KS2 who do bring phones must hand them in to the class teacher who will keep them in a safe place until school finishes. Mobile phones must be switched off and not used once through the school gates and on the school grounds. All pupils should use school book bags which can be purchased from the office. We cannot store large cases or duffle bags on pegs in the classrooms. Computers (Administration) We have computers which use a database of information for school purposes. This will be held internally and not disclosed to anybody outside school. Please discuss with the Headteacher if you are concerned or need further information. We issue updated information to parents about this every year. Parent Help Parents, grandparents and friends can help us in school in many different ways. We are grateful for any expertise which a mum or dad may be able to offer e.g. sewing, baking, computing, library, accompanying us on trips, art, pottery clay, display, sport, etc. Parents are actively involved in the Sacramental preparation. Complaints Most complaints are dealt with at school usually by informal discussion with your child’s class teacher or the Headteacher. However, if parents wish to pursue a complaint more formally they should contact the Chair of Governors. Guidelines regarding formal complaints are available for parents.

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Reporting to Parents Parents’ Evenings are held in the Autumn Term and Spring Term. In the Summer Term there is an opportunity to respond to or discuss your child’s annual written report. Medium term plans, showing curriculum intent for the term/half term can be found on the school

website. The school offers an open door policy, please speak to your child’s class teacher if you

have any questions concerning learning and teaching. We are happy to help.

Special Needs

At St Mary’s we recognise that each one of us is unique, special and created by God. We aim to nurture our children’s development and encourage them to reach their potential. Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can affect a child’s ability to learn. This can affect their:

behaviour and ability to socialise

reading, writing and maths progress

ability to understand things

concentration levels

physical ability

We follow the guidelines of the Special Needs Code of practice when identifying and coordinating provision for children with special needs. We aim to work closely with parents when communicating concerns and supporting children. St Mary’s School has a designated member of staff with responsibility for special needs and disabilities and a learning mentor. If you feel your child has special needs, the first point of contact is their class teacher who will seek the advice of the Special educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) Gifted and Talented St Mary’s is committed to providing a rich and challenging curriculum for all its learners; one that promotes the highest standards and encourages each and every individual to achieve their full potential. We maintain a record of pupils in each class who we consider have special talents or who are considered more able learners. Safeguarding Children Our school is absolutely committed to safeguarding the children in our care. Along with all schools, we have an important part to play in the detection and prevention of child abuse. School follows Bolton’s safeguarding procedures to ensure the safety and welfare of our children. Educational Visits A variety of educational visits are arranged – ranging from trips to farms and museums, to exhibitions and musical opportunities. The school has a Charging and Remissions Policy. Residential visits start with an overnight stay in school; a visit to the Anderton Centre, Rivington; a visit to Lockerbie Manor, Scotland progressing to a 5 day residential overseas for the Year 6 pupils. The school reserves the right to change residential arrangements in the best interests of the pupils. Sports and Extra-Curricular Activities St Mary’s pupils are involved in numerous after school clubs and activities throughout the year. We currently have school clubs for, football (girls and boys), netball, taekwondo, Rainbows and Sunbeams, prayer Group, board games. We also offer seasonal clubs which may not last a whole year (e.g. Mad Science Club, cross country, gymnastics, IT and gardening club)

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Breakfast Club and After School Childcare St Mary’s has a thriving ‘Out of School Club.’ The on-site ‘before and after school’ childcare provision has grown in popularity. The Club is Ofsted registered, based in the school hall and is staffed by fully qualified Childcare Assistants. Opening times: Breakfast Club 7.30am – 8.55am After School Club 3.15pm – 6.00pm Breakfast will be available between 7.30am – 8.45am and includes choices including toast, cereals and juice/milk/water. Afternoon snack will be available every day with a varied choice including sandwiches, soup, hot dogs, beans on toast, pizza, etc.…. Every day an assortment of activities will be available for the children. These will include:

Art & craft

Music

Sport

Board games, jigsaws, colouring

Homework corner

Book corner

ICT The Out of School Club is mainly based in the school hall although this may vary if there is a school activity taking place. In this case, the ICT suite and library areas may also be used. The Club is open for all children attending St Mary’s RC Primary. There is no holiday provision at the setting. To obtain further information concerning our ‘out of school club’, please request a form via the school front office on (01204) 333625.

End of Key Stage Results The tables below show the percentages of pupils achieving expected standard at the end of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 at St Mary’s RC Primary School in 2019. Key Stage 1 The percentages of pupils who achieved expected in Reading, Writing, Maths, Science also

Reading, Writing and Maths combined at the end of Year 2 were above Bolton and National

figures.

% reaching expected at end of KS1

St Mary’s Bolton National

Reading 86% 72% 75%

Writing 79% 68% 69%

Maths 86% 74% 76%

Science 90% 78% 82%

Reading/Writing/Maths 76% 64% 65%

The percentage of pupils reaching Greater Depth at the end of KS1 is above Bolton and National figures for Reading, Writing and Maths. The Reading, Writing and Maths combined percentage for those working at greater depth is slightly below Bolton and National figures.

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Key Stage 2 The percentages of pupils who achieved expected in Reading, Writing, Maths, Science also Reading, Writing and Maths combined at the end of Year 6 in July 2019 are above both Bolton and National figures.

% reaching expected end of KS2

St Mary’s Bolton National

Reading 84% 70% 73%

Writing 87% 78% 79%

Maths 94% 78% 79%

GPS 94% 79% 78%

Reading/Writing/Maths 74% 63% 65%

The percentage of pupils reaching Greater Depth Standard at the end of KS2 in Maths and Reading, Writing and Maths combined are above both Bolton and National figures. The percentage number of Y6 pupils working at Greater Depth in EGPS is well above Bolton and National figures. Reading is above Bolton but below National figures. Writing is below both Bolton and National figures.

Scaled Scores and Progress for Y6 pupils (July 2019)

St Mary’s

Average

Scaled Score

National

Average

Scaled Score

St Mary’s

Progress Score

National Progress

Score

Significance of

Progress Score

Reading 105.3 103.6 0.4 0 Progress banding will

be added when data

released.

Writing NA NA 0.2 0 Progress banding will

be added when data

released.

Maths 106.6 105.1 1.8 0 Progress banding will

be added when data

released.

% reaching GDS St Mary’s Bolton National

Reading 38% 23% 25%

Writing 17% 15% 15%

Maths 34% 21% 22%

Reading/writing/maths 10% 11% 11%

% reaching GDS St Mary’s Bolton National

Reading 26% 24% 27%

Writing 19% 21% 20%

Maths 35% 27% 27%

GPS 55% 38% 36%

Reading/writing/maths 16% 11% 11%

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GPS 110.5

106.3 NA NA NA

ADMISSION POLICY FOR 2019

St. Mary’s is a Roman Catholic Primary School provided by the Diocese of Salford and is

maintained by the Bolton Local Authority as a Voluntary Aided School, designated as a school with

a religious character. The school’s Governing Board is the Admissions Authority and is

responsible for taking decisions on applications for admissions. For the school year commencing

September 2018, the Governing Board has set its planned admission number at 30.

The school’s role is to participate in the mission of the Catholic Church by providing a curriculum,

including Catholic religious education and worship, which will help children to grow in their

understanding of the Good News and in the practice of their faith. The school will help the children

develop fully as human beings and prepare them to undertake their responsibilities as Catholics in

society. The school requires all parents applying for a place here to understand and respect this

ethos and its importance to the school community. This does not affect the rights of parents who

are not of the Catholic faith to apply for a place here.

Application can be made by contacting either the school (tel. 333625) or Bolton Council, Pupil &

Student Services (tel.332092) or online at www.bolton.gov.uk. The school will then be notified by

the Local Authority of all applicants within a specific academic year. Any late enquiries will be

referred directly to Bolton Council, and categorised after all applicants received within the correct

timescale, as guided by the admissions team of the authority.

Decisions on in year admissions can now be made direct to the school after initial information

discussions with the Headteacher. The final letter offering a place will be issued by Pupil &

Student Services at Bolton Council.

All preferences listed on the Local Authority preference form will be considered on an equal basis

with the following set of admissions criteria forming a priority order where there are more

applications for admissions than the school has places available.

The Governors will admit all children having a statement of special educational needs or an

Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) in whose statement or EHCP the school is named. The

remaining places will be allocated using the criteria shown below:

1. Looked after children and previously looked after children. (A “looked after child” is a child who is (a) in the care of a local authority, or (b) being provided with accommodation by a local authority in the exercise of their social services functions at the time of making an application to school. Previously looked after children are children who were looked after, but ceased to be so because they were adopted (or became subject to a child arrangements order or special guardianship order).

2. Baptised Roman Catholic children who will have a sibling* attending the school at the time of admission and are resident in the parish of St. Mary’s.

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3. Other baptised Roman Catholic children who are resident in the parish of St. Mary’s.

4. Other baptised Roman Catholic children who have a sibling* attending the school at the

time of admission not resident in the parish.

5. Other baptised Roman Catholic children.

6. Children with an exceptional social, medical, educational or religious need which can be best met, or only met at this school.

7. Other children who have a sibling attending the school at the time of admission.

8. Other children. NOTES

a) Sibling* - Priority will be given to children who will have older siblings in years Reception to 6 at St. Mary’s School at the date of admission. The Governors accept that in some family units (1 or 2 adults and children) the children may not be natural brothers and/or sisters. Sibling is defined as a brother or sister, half brother or sister, adopted brother or sister, step brother or sister, or the child of the parent/carer’s partner where the child for whom the school place is sought is living in the same family unit at the same address as that sibling, provided proof is available to demonstrate that the children are permanently resident at the same address and part of the same family unit.

b) All applicants will be considered at the same time and after the closing date for

admissions, which is set by the Local Authority annually.

c) Each Roman Catholic applicant will be required to produce a baptismal certificate.

d) Parents should check carefully whether they are resident within the parish

boundary of St. Mary’s. A map illustrating the parish boundary is attached and can be made available at the school.

e) It is the duty of governors to comply with class size limits at Key Stage One. This

means that the school cannot normally operate classes in Key Stage One of more than 30 children. The Governing Board can exceed the regulations for twins and children from multiple births where one of the children is the 30th child admitted.

g) When applications within a category exceed the number of places available,

places will be offered by random allocation in an independently observed and transparently administered draw.

h) If an application for admission has been turned down by the Governing Board, parents can appeal to an Independent Appeals Panel. The appeal must be sent in writing to the Clerk to Governors at the school within 20 days of notification of refusal. The date of notification will be 2 working days after posting by first class post. The parents must give their reasons for appealing in writing and the decision of the Appeals Panel is binding on the Governors.

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i) The Governing Board reserve the right to withdraw the offer of a school place where false evidence is received in relation to baptism, sibling connections, place of residence, school attended or the exceptional medical and/or social needs as claimed.

Deferred Admissions

Children will be admitted to the Reception class at the beginning of the autumn term before their fifth birthday. Parents may request that their school place be deferred until later in the school year and, if they do this, the place will be held for the child. They cannot, however, defer entry beyond the beginning of the term after the child’s fifth birthday, nor beyond the school year for which the original application was accepted. Parents can also request that their child attends on a part time basis until the child reaches compulsory school age.

Requests for Admission Outside the Child’s Normal Age Group

Parents requesting admission out of the normal age group must put their request in writing,

addressed to the Head teacher at the school, together with any supporting evidence that the

parent wishes to be taken into account. The Governing Board will make decisions on requests for

admission outside the normal age group on the basis of the circumstances of each case and in the

best interests of the child concerned. This will include taking account of the parent’s views; any

information provided about the child’s academic, social and emotional development; where

relevant, their medical history and the views of a medical professional; whether they have

previously been educated out of their normal age group; and whether they may naturally have

fallen into a lower age group if it were not for being born prematurely. The Governing Board will

also take into account the views of the Head teacher. When informing a parent of their decision on

the year group the child should be admitted to, the Governing Board will set out clearly the

reasons for their decision.

Where the Governing Board agrees to a parent’s request for their child to be admitted out of their

normal age group and, as a consequence of that decision, the child will be admitted to a relevant

age group (i.e. the age group to which pupils are normally admitted to the school) the local

authority and Governing Board will process the application as part of the main admissions round,

unless the parental request is made too late for this to be possible, and on the basis of their

determined admission arrangements only, including the application of oversubscription criteria

where applicable. The Governing Board will not give the application lower priority on the basis that

the child is being admitted out of their normal age group.

This document will be reviewed annually.