School Brochure 2019 2020 - Established 2012 - Swift Academies
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Established 2012 School Brochure 2019 – 2020
The Rydal Academy is part of the Swift Academies Trust - REGISTERED COMPANY No: 7533271
Page 2
Contents
Page 4 - Opening statement and contact details
Page 5 - School context
Mission Statement
Page 6 - Pupil Welfare (Child Protection)
Health and safety
School security
Collection procedures
Fire safety / Lockdown
First aid procedures
Medicines in school
Page 7 - Equal Opportunity
Data protection
Home-school agreement
Home / school links
Healthy lifestyles
Page 8 - School Governors
Page 9 - Staff
Staffing structure
Page 10 - School organisation
Senior Leadership Team
Teaching & Learning Structure
Page 11 - Administration Team
Premises Staff
Wrap-around Staff
Catering Staff
Page 12 - School day – Nursery
School day – Reception, Key Stage 1 & 2
Wrap-around Care
Breakfast club
Youth club
School mini-bus
Page 13 - School Admissions
Nursery Admissions
Reception Admissions
Page 14 - Attendance
Absences
Term-time holidays
Staff training and absence
Page 15 - Curriculum details
Early Years Foundation Stage
Key Stage 1 & 2
Magic Mondays
Page 16 - Core Subjects
Phonics/Reading
English
Calculations
Maths
PE (PE kit)
Page 17 - Computing
Social Development
Languages
Further Curriculum Information
Religious Education
Page 3Sex and Relationships Education
Homework
Extended learning
Page 18 - Extra-curricular activities
Assessment
Reporting to parents
Primary to Secondary Transition
School Council
Page 19 - Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
Management of behaviour
Celebration of success
Page 20 - Learning breaks
Lunchtimes / School Dinners
Page 21 - School Uniform
Spare Uniform Shop
Personal possessions
School charging policy
Fundraising
Page 22 - Concerns and complaints procedure
Ofsted
A final message
*For standards information, policies and holiday dates please visit the school
website.
Page 4Welcome to The Rydal Academy!
Dear Parents and Carers
Our brochure is designed to help parents and carers find out more about our
school. All of the information relates to the academic year 2019 – 2020.
Since the brochure was printed there may have been a few changes but you
are more than welcome to contact us or visit school anytime if there is
anything else you need to know. Further information about The Rydal
Academy and Swift Academies is also available on the school website.
Thank you for taking time to find out about us.
Our address is:
The Rydal Academy
Rydal Road
Darlington
DL1 4BH
Telephone number 01325 380784
Email: officeadmin@rydal.swiftacademies.org.uk
Website: www.therydalacademy.co.uk
Twitter feed: @therydalacademy
Facebook page: The Rydal Academy
Headteacher: Mr J Armitage B.Ed (Hons), NPQH
Deputy Headteacher: Mrs K Turnbull M.A. (Ed), NPQH
Assistant Headteacher: Mrs A Galey B.Ed (Hons)
Assistant Headteacher: Miss L Unsworth BA (Hons) MA, NPQH
SENCO: Miss L Truby BA (Hons), NASC
Designated Safeguarding Lead: Mrs J Thurland B.Ed (Hons)
Chair of Governors: Mr W M Gray
For any further information about school policies, procedures or any other
aspect of school practice please contact the school office in writing, by email,
by telephone, in person or access the school website.
All policies are available in hard copy from the school office or
electronically on the school website.
Page 5School context
The Rydal Academy is a vibrant primary school which caters for pupils aged 3
to 11.
The school is housed in an expansive building with a bright, purposeful
learning environment. The school benefits from extensive grounds including a
multi-use games area, nature garden, allotment, four Early Years outdoor
learning areas, field, outdoor classroom and two playgrounds
The whole school community is passionate about pupils enjoying and
engaging in their learning while having the resilience and passion to succeed.
We believe that every child has the right to the very best education. We want
to give each child the opportunity and skills to improve themselves and
contribute fully to their community. In return, we expect each child to work
hard, be tolerant and show respect for others.
We want whoever joins us, in whatever capacity, to feel that they belong to a
happy, caring, hard working and proud school community.
Mission Statement
At The Rydal Academy pupils, staff, parents and carers are able to develop
their skills and knowledge collaboratively through highly productive
relationships between pupils, staff, parents and carers in an atmosphere of
support, understanding and consistency.
We endeavour to harness the attributes of everyone; using a variety of
approaches to teaching and learning. Accessing a broad, balanced and
relevant curriculum which is extended by a range of extra-curricular
opportunities we strive to foster a passion for learning and knowledge which
leads to future opportunities.
We celebrate achievement in all areas of academic and personal
development no matter how large or small. We believe every member of our
community can achieve anything they aim for with the correct encouragement,
support and opportunity. We support this aim by providing a vibrant, well-
resourced and organised environment which allows for optimal learning.
In short, The Rydal Academy looks to provide the best possible experience for
all stakeholders by:
Mr J.M.Armitage B.Ed (Hons), NPQH
Headteacher
Page 6Pupil Welfare (Child Protection)
As a school, we have the duty to promote and safeguard the welfare of our
pupils. This responsibility includes: the production of a Child Protection policy
and procedures; to be alert for possible signs of abuse; ensuring staff are
appropriately trained; where appropriate sharing information and working in
partnership with other agencies. Should you have any concerns around child
protection or safeguarding please contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead
(Mrs Thurland) who is the designated person for child protection,
safeguarding, Looked after Children and Young Carers; or the Headteacher.
Should the concern relate to the conduct of the Headteacher contact the Chair
of Governors. *See Child Protection Policy
Health and safety
Health and safety of all children and staff is of paramount importance.
School security
All visitors including parents are asked to report to the school office at the
main entrance when they come into school. This also applies to children who
are late after 9:30am; any pupils arriving between 9:00am - 9:30am should
enter through the late gate. External doors cannot be opened from the
outside and all areas of the school are alarmed. School grounds are also
monitored by security cameras.
* See CCTV policy
Collection procedures
When children are taken out of school during the day they should be collected
by an adult who must report to and sign out pupils at the school office.
Fire safety / Lockdown procedures
All staff and pupils have training in fire safety and lockdown procedures and
each term we have emergency evacuation and lockdown practices. Personal
Emergency Evacuation Plans (P.E.E.Ps) are created as necessary for
pupils/staff who may need support to exit the building during evacuations.
* See Fire Safety policy, Fire Emergency Plan, Lockdown procedures
First aid procedures
Sometimes accidents or illnesses do occur. When medical attention is
needed, children are taken to an identified member of staff (qualified first-
aider) All accidents are recorded and treatment administered in accordance
with policy. Parents are notified as soon as possible when children are too ill
to remain in school or when a serious accident occurs. Parents or carers are
always informed in writing and by text message or phone call when children
bump their heads. If parents cannot be contacted in an emergency a member
of staff will either take the child to hospital or call for an ambulance.
* See First Aid and Accident policy
Medicines in school
Prescribed medicines may be administered to pupils on completion of a
permission form if administration is required during school hours. All
medicines should be brought to school by an adult and given to a member of
staff. In the interest of safety children are not allowed to have throat pastilles,
lip balm, suntan lotion or lozenges. Inhalers are kept in a secure area. In
consultation with parents and health workers a health care plan is written for
children who have medical needs.
* See Supporting Pupils with Medical Condition
Page 7Equal opportunity
The Rydal Academy as a member of Swift Academies operates an equal
opportunity policy and is organised and managed in such a way that it is free
from discrimination and bias irrespective of people’s sexuality, race, religious
convictions and ability or disability. We operate a policy of inclusion for
everyone and work with all services and professionals to ensure this occurs.
* See Equality policy and Equality Objectives
Data protection (Consent / Contact Forms)
During admission to the school we send out consent and data checking forms
for confirmation of details and signature as part of the school induction pack.
Under the terms of General Data Protection Regulation 2018 schools must
ensure that the information held about young people is accurate and up to
date. We request the office staff be informed of any changes in details as
soon as possible. School also provides a Privacy Notice which explains about
data held on your child/ren.
*See Data Protection Policy
Home-School Agreement
A copy of the home school agreement will be included in induction packs. A
copy should be retained by parents for information.
Home-School links
We pride ourselves in having very good home school links and place a great
deal of importance on open communication. As well as daily conversations or
appointments we communicate with parents in several ways. A variety of
information is published on the website including dates, events, holidays,
school notices and what is coming up in the weeks ahead. Parents are, at
appropriate times, welcome to talk to any member of staff either informally or
by appointment. Parent’s information letters for each class are sent out at the
beginning of each term by email. Our school Facebook page and Twitter feed
gives live information on school activities. Tapestry and Marvellous Me share
with you information on your child/rens progress and achievements. Text and
email updates and reminders are also used on occasions. We will respond to
any questions or concerns the same day or the very next day where possible.
Healthy lifestyles
We encourage children to walk, cycle or scooter to school. Bikes and scooters
are stored in the racks next to the middle playground during the school day
and should be locked up where possible. We encourage all our children to
wear cycle helmets. Vehicles should not be ridden once inside the school
grounds. The school accepts no responsibility for damage or theft.
Children are encouraged to drink water throughout the day through access to
fresh water dispensers. The school provides water bottles for all pupils
annually.
Pupils are permitted to bring fruit to school as a snack for consumption during
playtimes, no nuts or snack bars are permitted.
The Rydal Academy is a no smoking or vaping site including all grounds and
playing fields.
* See Health and Safety policy, Allergens policy.
Page 8School governors
The Governing Body of the school consists of parents, teachers, non-teaching
staff, members of the local community and representatives from Swift
Academies.
In addition to timetabled meetings, governors are active in school during the
year through participation in monitoring activities and school events.
Local Governing Body Membership and Terms of Office
Headteacher
ex officio
Term of Office Start Date Term of Office End Date
1. John Armitage 1 March 2018 ex. officio
General
maximum of five appointed by the trustees and executive board
Term of Office Start Date Term of Office End Date
1. Mark Gray (chair) 1 March 2018 28 February 2022
2. Michael Jeffries (vice-chair) 29 June 2018 28 June 2022
3. Mark Emerson 1 March 2018 28 February 2022
4. Kelly-ann Lyle 1 March 2018 28 February 2022
5. VACANT
Parent governors
two elected by parents / carers
Term of Office Start Date Term of Office End Date
1. Clare Leech 1 March 2018 28 February 2022
2. Sarah Clough 17 October 2018 16 October 2022
Teaching staff governors
two elected by teachers
Term of Office Start Date Term of Office End Date
1. Katie Turnbull 1 March 2018 28 ebruary 2022
2. Charlotte Mawson 29 June 2018 28 June 2022
Support staff governors
one elected by support staff
Term of Office Start Date Term of Office End Date
1. Ewa Kaszuba 29 June 2018 28 June 2022
Representative from the executive leadership team
ex officio
appointed by the executive leadership team
Term of Office Start Date Term of Office End Date
1. Dean Judson 1 March 2018 ex. officio
* Terms of office to run 4 years or at a time when Parent Governors no longer
have children on roll at the school.
All school governors have current police checks.
Should you wish to contact a member of the governing body about any aspect
of school life please do so by:
- Email: officeadmin@rydal.swiftacademies.org.uk with the subject
“Governors”
- Website: follow the link on our website www.therydalacademy.co.uk
- Letter: Addressed to the Headteacher and for the attention of school
Governors.
Page 9Staff
Our school is committed to high standards and employs people who all work
towards this goal. All staff are police checked and fully trained.
Staffing structure
The school staffing structure is continually reviewed by the Headteacher and
Governing body. The staffing structure and key responsibilities as of
September 2019:
The Rydal Academy Staffing Structure (2019/20)
Page
10School organisation
Shortly before the end of the summer term parents are involved in discussion
and notified about class organisation for the following year. Staffing and
school organisation as of September 2019 is as follows:
Senior Leadership Team
Member of staff Role
Mr John Armitage Headteacher
Mrs Katie Turnbull Deputy Headteacher (Quality of Education Lead)
Mrs Lily Peoples Assistant Headteacher (Curriculum, Teaching, Learning and Assessment Lead)
Mrs Angela Galey Assistant Headteacher (Personal Development and Wellbeing Lead)
Mrs Jo Thurland Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Miss Libby Truby Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO )
Teaching and Learning structure
Class Teacher PPA Cover TA Support
Nursery
Miss Melanie Chapman Miss Rachel Musgrave
Nursery (Mrs Natalie Jeffries) Mrs Tina Dodds Mrs Sue Woodcock
Reception
RF Mrs Ashley Fox Mrs Rachael Trowles Mrs Alison Naisbitt
RS Miss Laura Staples- Mrs Lily Peoples Mrs Julie Thornton
Clough
RW Mrs Emma Wright Mrs Katie Turnbull Mrs Claire Owen Mrs Maureen
Year 1 Spencer-
1C Mrs Celia Senior Mrs Joanne Roberts Mrs Andrea Bamber Brown –
1J Mrs Jenny Salt Mr David Longstaff Mrs Paula Hill (LAC)
1M Mr Andrew Morris Mrs Rachael Trowles Mrs Helen Ellsworth
Mrs Gillian
Year 2 Ward –
Miss Kathy Elvy (Reading)
2E Mr David Longstaff Mrs Dawn Cornish
2P Mr Adam Platten Mrs Joanne Roberts
Mrs Ewa
2W Mrs Carolyn Whinfield Mrs Rachael Trowles
Kaszuba -
Year 3
(EAL)
3B Miss Abby Blackburn Mrs Joanne Roberts Mrs Mel Cartwright
3P Mr James Park Mrs Rachael Trowles *Flick Mr Stuart
3T Miss Anna Taylor Mr David Longstaff Shields -
Year 4 (LAC / Music
4D Miss Victoria Denham Mrs Joanne Roberts Mrs Kath French tuition)
4M Mrs Karen Mellard Mrs Rachael Trowles
4W Mrs Sarah Woodthorpe Mr David Longstaff Mrs Tina
Year 5 Dodds –
5M Miss Mica Cockerill Mrs Rachael Trowles Mr Kevin Rissetto (Speech,
language &
5R Mrs Rachel Campbell Mrs Joanne Roberts communication)
5W Miss Amy Waller Mr David Longstaff
Year 6 Mrs Sam
6E Mr Sam Ellis Mrs Rachael Trowles Mrs Rebecca Kelly Alexander
6M Miss Charlotte Mawson Mrs Joanne Roberts (Personal
6W Mrs Emily Wells Mr David Longstaff development
Individual Mentoring Programme Support (Tuesday to Friday) & well-being)
RL - Miss Nina Mallaburn
(Y1-3) Little IMPS Miss Adele French
Miss Beth Edgerley
Mrs Charlotte King
RL - Mrs Sharon Swainston
(Y4-6) IMPS Miss Emily Miller
Mrs Fran Coad
Phase Leader
*School dog
Page
11Administration Team
Member of staff Role
Mrs Mandy Denton School Administration Manager
Miss Janette Keogh Administration Officer
Mrs Ruth McLaren Morning Receptionist
Mrs Sarah Alton Afternoon Receptionist
Mrs Dianne Carr Administration Assistant
Mrs Tracy McGuire Attendance Officer
Premises Staff
Role Staff
Caretakers Mr Chris King, Mrs Janet Miller, TBC
Cleaning Supervisor Mrs Janet Miller
Mrs Sue Cresser, Mr Stephen King, Ms Claire Lynch, Mrs Pauline Chapman, Miss
Cleaners
Donna Wood, Miss Sara Leconte
Bus driver Mr Geoff McArdle, TBC
Transport Assistant Mrs Jacqueline Roscoe, Mrs Julie Hagger
Wrap-around Staff
Role Staff
Mrs Dianne Carr, Mrs Helen Gavey, Mrs Amelie Kaddoura, Mrs Jeanette Leach,
Lunchtime Support
Miss Caroline Leak, Mrs Pam Leonard, Miss Sharon Meaney, Mrs June Pass, Miss
Assistants
Alison Garbutt
Out of Hours Assistants Mrs Dianne Carr, Mrs Helen Gavey, Mrs Jeanette Leach, Mrs Pam Leonard, Mrs
(Breakfast Club) June Pass
Out of Hours Assistants
Mrs Dianne Carr
(After School Clubs)
Out of Hours Assistants
Mrs Pam Leonard, Miss Caroline Leak, Mrs Anne Hankin, Mrs Amelie Kaddoura
(Youth Club)
Catering staff
Role Staff
Catering Manager Mr Stewart McGreskin
Catering Officer Ms Claire Lynch
Catering Assistant Mrs Joanne Sievers, Mrs Ellen Cooke, Mrs Diane Nicholson
Page
12School day – Nursery
At the Rydal Academy we offer excellent Early Years provision. We have a
Secure and attractive nursery with its own entrance. Inside there are two large
rooms and several smaller group rooms which help to create a bright, cheerful
and spacious nursery setting. There are toilets and changing facilities, a
kitchen and dining room. Outside are three secure outdoor areas: two purpose
built outdoor spaces and a beautiful wooded garden – perfect for exploring.
We provide 15 hours of funded nursery education for 3 and 4 year olds and
30 hours of funded education for eligible parents. Extra hours are available to
book when needed at a cost of £4.50 per hour. Hours can be booked between
9:00am and 3:30pm, Monday to Friday during the school term.
*See Childcare application form, Nursery paid care terms and conditions.
School day – Reception, Key Stage 1 & 2
Parents are requested to send their children to school to arrive no earlier than
8.45am each day when doors will be opened for access. Any messages for
teachers may be passed on via Support staff who will be supervising access
doors. Pupils should be in school by 9:00am when registration session
begins.
Our lunchtime is 11:20am – 11:50am for Reception, Little IMPS and IMPS;
11:50am – 12:20pm for Year 3 and Year 5; 12:20pm – 12:50pm Year 1 for
and Year 4; 12:50pm – 1:20pm for Year 2 and Year 6. All pupils will have a 30
minute sit-down lunch. All Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils will also have a 20 minute
assembly (Tuesday to Thursday) and six teaching activities on a typical
school day. Learning breaks will be built into the day by teachers in response
to the needs of the class.
The school day finishes at 3.15pm (Reception, Year 1 and Year 2), 3:20pm
(Year 3 and Year 4) and 3:30pm (Year 5 and Year 6). Children are brought
out onto the playground by class teachers before being collected or going
home by themselves. (If written consent has been provided)
Wrap-around care
Breakfast club
Breakfast club runs from 7:30am until registration. A variety of activities are
available to children and an extensive breakfast menu. Breakfast club is open
to pupils from Reception class to Year 6 and can be accessed on the day
without prior confirmation by any pupils in these year groups. Supervision and
breakfast are free. Pupils should be escorted to the disabled access entrance
on the Key Stage 2 playground and should not be on site before 7:30am.
Youth club
Our free Youth club runs from the end of the school day until 6pm for pupils in
Reception to Year 6. We provide a range of activities and toys for children to
play with in a supervised environment. Staff will also facilitate access to a
snack which can be provided from home or a sandwich and some fruit can be
purchased from the school for £1. Any pupils not collected at the end of the
school day or from clubs will access Youth club until parent/carers arrive.
School mini-bus
We operate a free collection and drop off service for families who have had to
move out of the area or are having difficulties getting their children to school
due to circumstances beyond their control. For more information please ask
for a school mini-bus access request form from the school office.
Page
13School Admissions
All admissions are managed by Darlington Borough Council and admissions
forms can be downloaded from the Darlington Borough Council website or
requested from the admissions team on:
Admissions Team
Town Hall
Darlington
DL1 5QT
email: schools.admissions@darlington.gov.uk
Tel: 01325 406333
Admission or transfer forms can also be collected from the school office.
* For more information see Admissions Arrangements
Admission numbers currently stand as follows:
Cohort Admission limit
Nursery 78 (Maximum Session Limit)
Reception 90
Year 1 90
Year 2 90
Year 3 90
Year 4 90
Year 5 90
Year 6 90
Nursery Admissions
In line with Local Authority guidelines children start Nursery the term after
their third birthday, however if spaces are available children are invited to start
Nursery from their third birthday. They are invited for a visit with their families
before starting. The initial length of the sessions can be varied according to
the needs of each individual child.
*Contact the school office for admission forms or more information.
Reception Admissions
New starters in Reception follow a programme of induction, which begins
towards the end of their Nursery education. Children have a half day visits to
our Reception class prior to their September start date. Parents are also
invited to an induction meeting. At the start of the Autumn term all new
starters begin school on day one with a full day session, if required through
consultation with parents the initial length of the sessions can be varied
according to the needs of each individual child.
Page
14Attendance
Attendance is improving against national averages. The school works very
hard to ensure families who are having difficulties with attendance are
supported.
Attendance is promoted within school through weekly individual and class
awards; termly 100% attendance, improved attendance and great attendance
awards. Pupils with 100% attendance for the term also have the chance to
win £100 worth of vouchers.
* For further information see Attendance Policy & Procedures
Absences
If your child is unable to attend school because of illness, please call the
school as soon as possible so we may mark the daily register. If we have not
received notification school will try to contact parents during the morning of
the first absence, if we are unable to contact parents or no legitimate reason
for absence is provided an unauthorised absence mark will be given and
parents may receive a home visit for the schools Attendance Officer. If no
reason for absence has been provided by the fifth day a referral will be made
to the Local Authority Education Welfare Service.
Pupils with less than 94% attendance will be tracked by the school and may
receive a home visit for the schools Attendance Officer or an invitation to
attend a meeting at the school to explore if the school is able to offer support
to improve attendance.
* Live attendance information for your child/ren is available on request
Term-time holidays
Term-time holidays will not be authorised in any circumstances. Should
pupils miss time at school due to holidays any absence will be recorded
as unauthorised and may lead to a Penalty Notice from the Local Authority
Education Welfare Service.
Staff training and absence
Every member of staff takes part in training throughout the year. When this
happens, or when somebody is absent through ill health we endeavour to use
internal staff cover or supply teachers from a known and reputable company.
All staff involved in cover have completed the necessary police safety checks.
Page
15Curriculum details
Early Year Foundation Stage
The Early Year Foundation Stage curriculum is planned around pupil interests
and identified themes. The majority of time across the day is child-initiated
learning in both Nursery and Reception phases. Within each daily Nursery
session pupils will also receive whole class adult led sessions for
phonics/early reading and number.
Reception pupils receive whole class adult led session in phonics/early
reading, writing and number on a daily basis. Learning activities are based
around objectives from Development Matters in The Early Year Foundation
Stage non-statutory guidance materials.
* See Early Years Foundation Stage Policy
Key Stage 1 and 2
Our curriculum is designed to meet the needs of our own school community
but includes the 2014 National Curriculum at its centre. The following key
areas of learning underpin our curriculum design and are embedded in
provision across the curriculum: social development, basic skills (reading,
writing, calculating), communication skills, positive learning attitudes and
resilience, computing skills, self-esteem building, problem solving and
enquiry, independence and life skills, wider real life experiences, aspiration of
both staff and pupils, physical and mental health, development of pupils’
talents and interests.
Classes across the school are made up of three parallel mixed ability groups
within a cohort. Setting will only be used for specialist subject areas, phonics.
Pupils will access all core subject sessions and Magic Monday activities with
their class teacher, except for sessions which are covered by PPA teaching
staff.
Teachers will adjust timetables flexibly to fit around pupils learning needs and
lesson design. Pupils who require further support or extension may access
further adult support in the class or be withdrawn for intervention activities.
Teachers send out via email a parents’ information letter at the start of each
term to inform parents of curriculum coverage over the term as well as
arrangements for homework, school trips, tips on how to support your child at
home and equipment required.
Subjects are taught as discrete lessons, through topics or thematically.
Wherever relevant cross – curricular links are made between subjects.
*See cohort plans published on the school website, Teaching and Learning
policy and termly parent information letters.
Magic Mondays (Terrific Tuesdays, Wicked Wednesdays)
The aim of Magic Mondays is to inspire pupils at the start the week through an
intensive and immersive unit of work focussing on the curriculum areas of:
Science, Music, Art and Design, Design Technology, History, Geography or
RE. Themes from the Magic Monday focuses are then pulled through into
Core subjects during the rest of the week, e.g. If the Magic Monday theme is
World War 2 pupils may then study Anne Frank’s diary in Literacy and create
their own diary in English during the rest of the week.
Page
16Core subjects (Tuesday to Friday)
Pupils will access activities grouped in to six core subjects each day,
objectives from these core subjects will also link into Magic Monday activities.
We feel continued exposure to these core areas of learning will help to embed
the basic skills pupils will need to prepare them for their future.
The core subjects are made up of:
Phonics / Reading
In Key Stage 1 pupils will be grouped by ability for phonics sessions. Once
pupils are confident readers they will access reading sessions rather than
phonics sessions. Reading activities will focus mainly on independent reading,
comprehension activities, whole class or group guided reading and follow up
tasks. Letters and Sounds phonics programme is used to develop phonics
knowledge and reading skills, pupils then progress on to the Accelerated
Reader scheme when they are reading at an appropriate level. Pupils are
encouraged to access the ReadingEggs / Reading Eggspress website or app.
both in and out of school to develop their reading skills.
English
English sessions will focus mainly around writing composition, spelling,
punctuation, grammar and handwriting. Sessions will build towards one piece
of extended writing per fortnight which will be quality marked by the class
teacher and then used to feedback to pupils before they edit and improve their
work. * Spoken language will be evidenced and assessed across all subjects.
Calculations
Calculation sessions will cover number skills including calculations, number
and place value, fractions, decimals and percentages. Pupils are also
encouraged to make use of the schools subscription to the Mathletics website
both in and out of school to practice their calculation skills.
Maths
Maths sessions will cover measurements, geometry and shapes, statistics,
ratio, proportion and algebra
* Calculations and Maths sessions will build towards one piece of extended
work (usually enquiry based) per week which will be quality marked by the
class teacher.
PE
PE sessions will take place two out of every three days. PE sessions will
include a variety of sports and physical activities while educating pupils
around physical health and the impact of exercise on their body. Children
have opportunities to participate in intra-school competitions, inter-school
competitions, cluster, town and regional competitions. Swimming lessons are
provided for children from Year 1 to Year 6.
PE Kit
Children should wear a PE t-shirt, sports shorts. Children who do not bring kit
on designated PE days will be provided with spare kit for them to access the
PE curriculum. It is advised that shoulder length hair should be tied back and
jewellery should not be worn. Should ear-rings not be able to be removed,
they should be covered with tape or plasters. Appropriate footwear such as
trainers should be worn outdoors, ankle boots are not suitable. Swim wear
should be a one-piece swimsuit for girls and trunks for boys. All children with
shoulder length hair should wear a swimming cap.
Page
17Computing
Computing sessions will run every third day and be designed around the
computing curriculam objectives, while various forms of IT will be used across
all curricular subjects to further pupils understanding of the uses of IT and to
extend learning within those specific subject areas.
Social Development
Weekly Social Development sessions will focus on spiritual, moral, social and
cultural development activities while also including community contribution
activities, SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) lessons and team
building sessions.
Languages
Once a week Key Stage 1 pupils will access a vocabulary session while Key
Stage 2 pupils will access a Modern Foreign Languages session. Children
begin learning French in Year 3 and continue to develop their French
throughout Key Stage 2. All children take part in French activities for
approximately 30 minutes per week. After-school Languages club allows
children further opportunities to develop their knowledge of languages.
Further Curriculum Information
Religious Education
At The Rydal Academy we currently use the Darlington Agreed Syllabus for
RE. In accordance with statutory requirements collective worship is held daily.
*Parents are entitled to withdraw their children from RE and collective worship
and should inform the Headteacher in writing should they wish to do so.
Sex and Relationships Education
The curriculum for sex and relationships education is taught through Social
development and Science. Year 5 & 6 children take part in a talk on puberty
and relationships which is delivered by our School Nurse. Issues relating to
puberty and sexuality are discussed as and when appropriate. Teaching is
complementary and supportive to the role of parents who have the right to
withdraw their child from these lessons.
*Parents are entitled to withdraw their children from Sex Education lessons or
puberty talks and should inform the Headteacher in writing should they wish to
do so. See Sex & Relationships Education Policy
Homework
Pupils in Reception to Year 2 receive weekly phonics activities and Year 2 – 6
receive spellings. All pupils should take a reading book home every night.
*See homework policy
Extended learning
Pupils are encouraged to extend their curriculum learning through use of the
Pupil Portal (RM Unify), go to http://remoteaccess.therydalacademy.co.uk and
log in with their school network login and password. Optional activities
including: curriculum extension grids, workbooks and talk boxes are available
on request.
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18Extra-curricular activities
The Rydal Academy provides a wide range of activities, which take place at
the end of the school day. Extra-curricular timetables are published on the
school website annually. All activities are free and are run by school staff.
Clubs are accessible to pupils from Reception to Year 6 depending on the
activity. Sign up letters are available from the office.
Assessment
We make use of continuous assessment that begins when a child starts
nursery/school. Information from assessment helps to ensure children
continue to make progress and that any issues are identified and addressed.
Teaching and learning staff make use of a range of assessment activities
which include: marking, individual discussions with pupils, moderation of work,
formal tests, observations and teacher assessment.
On entry to Nursery, Reception and Year 1 pupils are given a baseline
assessment which is used as a start point to track development. At the end of
Year 2 and Year 6 teacher assessments are reported nationally. Year 1
phonics testing and Year 2 phonics testing re-sits are conducted every June.
Year 6 SATs are taken in May of each year. Statutory KS2 SATs in reading
comprehension; spelling, punctuation and grammar; maths are marked
externally. (Children and parents are notified of results as soon as we have
them.)
* See Assessment policy
Reporting to parents
Pupil progress update meetings are held during Autumn and Spring term for
parents and carers in the form of Parent Pupil consultations. These meetings
provide an opportunity for parents/carers to discuss progress towards age
related expectations. Open evenings are also held during Autumn and Spring
term for parents and carers to look at work with their children.
Teachers prepare an annual report, which summarises progress and
attainment over the year; gives a copy of outcomes against age related
expectation; pastoral information and an overview of contribution and
involvement in the broader aspects of school life. Children also contribute to
the report which gives clear targets for the next academic year.
* See Reporting cycle parent’s letter.
Live information on your own child’s achievements can be accessed through
Tapestry (Early Years) or Marvellous Me (Year 1 to 6)
Primary to Secondary Transition
At the end of Key Stage 2 our pupils transfer to a variety of schools across the
Local Authority. Transition arrangements vary from school to school. Staff will
consult with Year 7 staff from all relevant schools and extended transition
arrangements can be put in to place for any vulnerable or apprehensive
pupils.
School Council
Every class elects’ children who form the School Council. The council meets
regularly and is involved in various activities during the year, for example
fundraising and school development initiatives.
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19Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
The school follows a policy of inclusion. Our special needs policy meets all the
requirements as identified in ‘The Code of Practice.’
Every child who is placed on our SEN register has targets specific to their
learning need which are shared with parents and may come in the form of a
Support Plan, One Plan or Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP). Targets
are reviewed and updated on a termly basis. Consultation with parents’ takes
place always when appropriate support from other agencies is used.
Should you have any concerns about your child’s progress contact the class
teacher. For further information on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
provision contact the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (Miss Truby)
* See Special Educational Needs policy, SEND Local Offer, SEND
Information report
Management of behaviour
We believe that school should be a happy, safe and secure place where all
individuals value themselves and have respect for others as well as the
environment.
Every member of staff contributes to helping children achieve high, but
realistic, standards of behaviour within a positive setting. School does have a
number of rules, which ensures children’s well-being, and on admission each
family are required to complete a home-school agreement which details our
expectations. These are part of a system where praise, encouragement and
reward are used to reinforce good behaviour.
When anti-social behaviour does occur it is dealt with immediately. Children
may have a sanction placed against them, but opportunities are always made
for discussion as a means of learning. We have a policy in place which
covers incident reporting and investigation. We ensure that all children are
treated fairly and as individuals. Consultation with all parties concerned is
actively encouraged.
* See Anti-bullying and Behaviour policies
Celebration of success
Every opportunity is taken to praise and reward every child by all staff. In
addition to daily praise we hold weekly Achievement assemblies where
achievement is recognised in different ways, including: Tidy Classroom, Class
attendance and Star pupil awards. A variety of individual awards as shared
through the ‘Marvellous me’ app. For log-in details please ask the class
teacher.
Every child is in a house team – red, blue, yellow, and green. Siblings will be
in the same team. Children’s points are collected for good work, being helpful,
good behaviour and participation in House team events are added to their
teams points with a rewards day and cup for the winning team at the end of
the year. Pupils also receive a Top Trump card for every 50 points collected
and for specific achievements across the school year (100% attendance for a
term, Competition winners)
At the end of the year further awards are given for progress; attainment;
creativity; science, technology and design; sporting contribution, character
and Overall Performance during the Annual Achievement Assembly.
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20Learning Breaks
Learning breaks will be built into the day by teachers in response to the needs
of the class. Children should not bring their toys to play with as equipment is
provided on both playgrounds. Personal possessions are the responsibility of
the child and not the school. Any items may be confiscated until collected by
an adult.
Children are permitted to bring fruit as a snack for playtimes. Nuts or products
containing nuts are not permitted on site.
Lunchtimes / School Dinners
During lunchtime time children who remain on the premises eat a school
lunch (which is cooked on the premises) or their packed lunch. All pupils will
have a 30 minute sit-down lunch. Lunchtimes are supervised by trained
Lunchtime Supervisory Assistants who provide table service, supervision,
etiquette training and record what pupils have eaten.
School meals are ordered on the day during registration or in advance
through our Ipay system with five or more choices of meal per day. Menus are
altered on a termly basis and adhere to government nutrition guidelines. We
encourage our children to have healthy packed lunches. We therefore
discourage crisps and chocolates or any fizzy drinks in their lunch box. Each
morning children who bring a packed lunch place their boxes on a key stage
trolley to ensure its safekeeping. Water and milk is provided for children
having a meal in the hall. A doctor’s letter is required for any special dietary
requirements or food allergies. Nuts or products containing nuts are not
permitted on site.
*See Allergens policy
We request that two weeks’ notice in writing is given when children swap
mealtime arrangements. Parents are requested to pay for school meals for
the week ahead each Monday morning, or in the case of absence, on the day
that the child returns to school. Payment for school meals can also be made
through the schools Ipay ordering and payment system. Information of how to
log-on and utilise this facility will provided after induction.
Free School Meals are available upon application and are reviewed on an
annual basis, please speak to the school office about qualification criteria if
pupils are in Year 3 - 6. All Reception, Year 1 and 2 pupils are entitled to
Universal Free School Meals. (We request parents still complete free meal
application forms as this will bring Pupil Premium funding in to the school
budget to be spent on resources and learning experiences for your child)
* Cost of meals per day for the 2019/20 academic year is £2:00 per pupil.
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21School uniform
We strongly support the use of school uniform and expect every child to wear
uniform in school and when visiting other places at all times of the year.
The Rydal Academy uniform consists of:
- Royal blue sweatshirt or cardigan
- White polo shirt or shirt
- Grey or black trousers, short trousers, pinafore or skirt
- Gingham checked summer dresses (blue and white)
- Shoes or trainers
- PE kit: T-shirt or sports top, sports shorts or leggings, tracksuit or
hoody, trainers or sandshoes (indoor use)
* Uniform can be ordered directly from http://elizabethsembroidery.co.uk or
sourced at most local supermarkets. All clothing should be clearly labelled
with your child’s name. This is especially important, as uniform items look
similar and can easily be confused for another child’s. The school cannot
accept responsibility for any lost items.
Spare uniform shop
Parents are able to access free uniform through our spare uniform shop.
Stock is made up from good quality returned uniform and unclaimed lost
property. If you would like to access some free uniform please ask for more
details at the school office.
Personal possessions
We cannot accept responsibility for children’s personal possessions such as
mobile phones, jewellery and pencil cases. Valuables should be given to the
class teacher for safe keeping. Mobile phones must be handed in to the office
and collected at the end of the day. We do ask that jewellery be kept to a
minimum of a watch and stud earrings. No false or acrylic nails should be
warn in school. Smart watches which are able to record sound or take
pictures are not permitted in school.
School charging policy
We believe in keeping costs for school activities to a minimum and wherever
possible subsidising them from school fund. All school trips and extra-
curricular clubs are currently paid for by the school.
* See Charging and Remissions policy
Fundraising
School has a very clear policy on fundraising. Every child benefits directly
from activities as all money raised goes back to supporting the costs of
resources, educational visits and activities. We hold a Christmas and
Summer fayre to raise money for school and a Spring term charity fundraiser
to raise money for a charity (local, national or international) nominated by the
student council.
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22Concerns and complaints procedure
We take pride in that school receives very few complaints. When concerns
are raised they are dealt with openly, immediately and efficiently.
For concerns, small issues or questions we ask parents to talk to teachers
first, then to a member of the Senior Leadership Team, then in the third
instance to the Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher.
In the event of a complaint please refer to the Complaints procedure on the
Swift Academies website and the school website or ask for a hard copy at the
school office.
* See Complaints Policy
Ofsted
The Rydal Academy was last inspected between the 4th and 5th May 2016 and
was judged be a Good school in all areas.
*See Full report and Headteacher letter to parents on the school website.
A final message
We hope that you have found this brochure helpful and that it has answered
all your questions.
We are always keen to improve on the way that we communicate with parents
and would be pleased to receive any suggestions that you may have
regarding our brochure.
Thank you once again for expressing an interest in our school. We look
forward to hearing from you.
Mr J M Armitage B.Ed (Hons); NPQH
Headteacher
* For a full list of school policies, or for further information, access the school
website or ask at the school office.
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23You can also read
