Welcome to

St Martin’s Primary School

Place of Bonhill

Renton

G82 4QB

Tel: 01389 753044

E-Mail: schooloffice.stmartins@west-dunbarton.gov.uk

School Web Site: https://sites.google.com/ourcloud.buzz/st-

martinsprimaryrenton/home

School Handbook

2018 - 2019

CONTENTS

Contents Pages

Statement of Commitment and Learning for Life 1

School Information / Community Use of School 2

Teaching Staff / Staff List 3

School Year 4

Enrolment / School Hours/Policies for Parent/Carers 5

Curriculum – Health and Wellbeing/English Language + Literacy/Maths & Numeracy 6

Curriculum – Social Subjects/Expressive Arts/Sciences 7

Curriculum – Technologies/RME & Religious Education/Assessment 8

Tracking/Reporting/Equal Opportunities and Social Justice 9

Right Respecting Schools 10

Curriculum – Additional Support Needs/Pupil Support Structure 11

Anti-bullying Policy 12

Homework/School Community Links 13

Attendance at School 14

Extra Curricular Activities 15

School Discipline 16

Clothing and Uniform 17

School Meals/Transport/Photography/Video 18

Medical and Health Care/Information in Emergencies 19

Parental Involvement/The Parent Council 20

Transfer from Primary to Secondary School/Data Protection Act 1984 21

St Martin’s Primary School – Our Service Standards 22

PTA/Important Addresses 23

Translation and Interpretation 24

Local Learning Communities 25

Getting It Right For Every Child (named Person) 26

WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND LEISURE SERVICES STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT

Every person has the right to be educated in a climate in which individuality is recognised and in

which everyone feels valued. We are committed to working in partnership with you to provide

education of the highest quality.

LEARNING FOR LIFE

We will work together to ensure that everyone in our community is valued and has the

opportunity to learn for life and to achieve their potential.

VISION:

To enable everyone in West Dunbartonshire to become:

Successful Learners

Confident Individuals

Responsible Citizens

Effective Contributors

To achieve our vision, we will:

Create and deliver courses, activities and events which will motivate and excite learners.

Develop innovative ways to support learning.

Value diversity, promote equal opportunities and foster inclusion.

Promote partnership and community participation.

Value achievement and celebrate success.

Continually reflect on and aim to improve the quality of our services.

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SCHOOL INFORMATION St. Martin’s Primary school has been established in Renton for over 115 years. The school is now

situated in the Place of Bonhill and has a wonderful outlook onto the River Leven. The school is

of traditional design and is situated on two levels.

Disabled ramps are found at the front and rear of the school. The school also has a disabled

toilet situated in the main corridor. Parents should note that the working capacity of the school

may vary dependent upon the number of pupils at each stage and the way in which the classes

are organised.

The present roll is 62. The school is a co-educational Roman Catholic Primary School and caters

for children of both sexes from Primary 1 to Primary 7.

There are currently three classes – P1/2, P3/4 and P5/6/7.

The school also houses the Riverside Early Education and Childcare Centre.

All authorities are required by law to issue a copy of the school handbook incorporating current

policies and practices of both the Council and the school to certain parents in December each

year for their use as appropriate.

COMMUNITY USE OF THE SCHOOL

St. Martin’s facilities (outdoor and indoor) are used every Thursday evening for school

activities. The facilities are also used for Social / Sporting Functions for the school.

Applications and information regarding letting facilities should be made to the Letting Section,

Council Offices, Education Department, Garshake Road, Dumbarton, G82 3PU.

The Parent Council under the direction of the Education Authority assists in the letting of

school premises.

We consider ourselves to be an open school in that we aim to be available for Parents/carers

and are able to meet requests for appointments and meeting times. We try hard to do so even

at very short notice and when this is not possible we make arrangements to meet with parents

as soon as possible.

Teachers always make themselves available to speak to parents at the end of the school day

when all children have safely been placed in their parent or guardians care.

Opportunities are given regularly through our newsletters and occasionally with other

forms of communication to comment on school routines and practices and to offer

suggestions with regard to the curriculum. Parents can find a range of information

about schools on the council website, www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/education-and-

learning/schools.

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TEACHING STAFF The number of teaching staff in the school is dependent each year on the roll of the school.

This year there are 7 members of staff including the Head Teacher. (FTE – 4.5)

St Martin’s Primary School 2018-2019 Teachers

Mr Charles Kennedy Head Teacher

Mrs Joanne McKenna Depute Head Teacher

Vacant Post Principal Teacher

Mrs Lillias Hobson P1/2

Miss Nicola Rowan P3/4

Mrs Louisa Clark P3/4

Miss Roseanne Caldwell P5/6/7

Mrs Marian Mailley 0.6 FTE Teacher

Specialists

Miss Sarah McFall Senior Clerical Assistant

Mr John Rainey School Janitor

Mrs Gwyneth Monaghan Learning Assistant

Mr William Webster Learning Assistant (0.5 FTE)

Mrs Lorraine McCrorie Learning Assistant (0.5 FTE)

Mrs Natasha Moohan Learning Assistant (0.5 FTE)

Father Anthony Ejikeme School Chaplain

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SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2018/2019

Autumn Term 2018

Teachers Return: Tuesday 14 August, Wednesday 15th August (In Service Days)

Pupils Return: Thursday 16th August

September week-end: Friday 21st and Monday 24th September (inclusive)

In-Service Day: Friday, 12th October

Half Term: Monday 15th and Friday 19th October (inclusive)

Ends: Friday 21st December

Spring Term 2019

Pupils Return: Monday, 7th January

Half term: Monday 11th and Tuesday 12th February

In-Service Day: Wednesday, 13th February

Ends: Friday 29th March

Spring Break: Monday 1st April to Friday 12th April (inclusive)

Summer Term 2019

Pupils Return: Monday, 15th April

Easter: Friday 19th April and Monday 22nd April (inclusive)

May Day: Monday, 6th May

In Service Day: Thursday 23rd May

Half Term: Friday 24th and Monday 27th May (inclusive)

Ends: Friday 28th June

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ENROLMENT

During the month of JANUARY, details of registration and enrolment for children starting

school in August will appear in the local press and church bulletins

You must register your child in the school which serves your catchment area. However, you may

exercise your parental right and apply for a placing request to another school at the time of

registration. Placing requests forms will be given at the time of registration.

If you wish to enrol your child in St Martin’s, please bring with you a copy of the child’s birth

certificate and, if available appropriate baptismal certificate.

Your child may have already visited the school for a number of transition visits if they have

attended Riverside Nursery. These visits will continue until June. Our current P1 pupils will

know who their nursery buddies are and our current P6 pupils have also met your child and will

be looking after them when they start school in August.

In May, the children will be invited to visit the school again to meet their teacher and all other

staff who will be working with them in primary one and parents will be given the opportunity to

participate in a pre-entrant meeting as an introduction to sharing the experience of starting

school. There will be further curriculum meetings when your child starts school.

To enrol a child of any age during the term, please contact the head teacher.

School Hours

Primary 1 – Primary 7 9.00am - 3.00pm

Interval

Primary 1 – Primary 7 10.30am - 10.45am

Lunch

Primary 1 – Primary 7 12.15pm - 1.00pm

Policies For Parent/Carers

The local education authority has produced policies for parents which provide information for

new parents at school. Copies are available from the school or can be accessed from the council

website.

In St Martin’s we have produced policies for different aspects of school life. These are

available from the school and are available on request.

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CURRICULUM AREAS

HEATLH & WELLBEING

We are a health promoting school and encourage children to develop and apply their knowledge

to make informed decisions and choices in order to improve their physical, emotional and social

wellbeing and pursue healthy lifestyles. Each term we have a specific health focus across all

stages e.g. personal safety; anti-bullying; drugs awareness and physical fitness. There are often

linked to any particular event or issue going on in the wider world. There are opportunities for

pupils to develop a sense of responsibility towards health promotion and a commitment to looking

after their own health. In interdisciplinary themes each term Health & Wellbeing is always

given importance and learners experiences are planned carefully including assessment of skills

development in this area of the curriculum.

Children have two hours of PE/fitness per week. Where appropriate additional activities take

place matched to themes such as Commonwealth and Olympic Games etc.

There are programmes of work covering health, personal and social development and physical

education which ensure a suitable breadth of study is undertaken across the stages. Teachers

also plan collaboratively with colleagues to ensure that there is a progression of skills developed

as well as a good variety and range of activities or learning experiences. Children at particular

stages in the school have also benefitted from working with Sports Development Officers in a

range of sports such as: Football; Rugby; Hockey; Sportshall Athletics; Swimming, etc.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERACY

Literacy offers children an essential passport to learning across the curriculum and prepares

children to take a full and active role in society and work.

Learning through language develops children’s ability to communicate their thoughts and

feelings. Children develop skills in listening, talking, reading and writing which are all essential

for learning, work and life.

Learning experiences in reading are planned ensuring that pupils work individually, paired; and in

cooperative groups. Children are encouraged to engage in functional and personal writing

experiences. Writing is usually linked to the theme and pupils are knowledgeable of their

targets in writing. They engage in self and peer assessment experiences. Teachers plan

collaboratively for interdisciplinary themes where literacy has a major focus.

We follow a spelling programme from P1-P7 which has helped ensure effective skills

development and a consistency of approach. Spelling homework is usually given.

Children are given the opportunity to begin learning an additional language. In St Martins

children learn French from Primary 1 and are encouraged to communicate and see the value of

being competent in another language.

MATHEMATICS & NUMERACY

Through the study of mathematics children develop essential numeracy and mathematical skills

which they can apply in different contexts and in the world of work. Mathematics is a key

element in engineering, science, technology and business.

We use Heinemann Maths as our core maths schemes for P1-7. However other resources and

approaches are used depending on the individual needs of each child. We try to ensure that

maths lessons have an appropriate balance of oral maths, practical/active experiences;

consolidation and practice. Great emphasis is placed on interactive and active learning. Some of

the mathematics curriculum is delivered through our interdisciplinary learning themes and some

is developed through our core programme. We ensure there is progression of skills through

planning learning experiences and assessments collaboratively with colleagues.

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SOCIAL STUDIES

Engaging in social studies allows children to develop an understanding of their world by learning

about other people, their values and cultures, in different times, places and circumstances and

how their environment has been shaped.

(People in place, people in the past and people in society).

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

global context.

EXPRESSIVE ARTS

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

curriculum children are given a variety of opportunities to enjoy creative and imaginative

activities and to express themselves in different ways.

Expressive arts can also be a forum for children to bring enjoyment and entertainment to

others through shows, concerts and assemblies.

Throughout the year pupils in St Martin’s are given opportunities to perform before their peers.

Assemblies, St Andrew’s Day event, School Plays/Concerts, Easter activities, etc. Parents and

extended family are encouraged to attend these events and participate if appropriate.

St Martin’s actively involves external agencies and last year we had instrumental tuition and

rhythm motivator.

During the month of December children will go to a Glasgow Theatre to see a Pantomime.

SCIENCES

Sciences include study in biology, chemical, physical and environment contexts. We are

currently exploring a new core programme in science matched to a curriculum for excellence.

Learning through science enables children to investigate their environment, develop an

understanding of scientific contexts and achievements as well as recognise the impact science

makes on our lives. During 2018-2019 we will invite STEM ambassadors to come and speak to

the children about various topics.

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TECHNOLOGIES

The use of ICT is an integral part of education. All classes have a range of software covering

many of the curricular areas and are used to enhance teaching and learning. Classes have an

interactive whiteboard fitted which can be used throughout the day and across the curriculum.

To participate fully in modern society children need to be skilled and knowledgeable users of

technology as well as be able to assess their impact in society.

This session we have purchased 34 Chrome Books to use throughout all stages. Chrome books

provide opportunities for the pupils to develop their skills in ICT and other curricular areas

using a variety of Google Apps. This will help prepare our pupils for a technology rich world.

RELIGIOUS AND MORAL EDUCATION

This includes learning about Christianity and our catholic faith as well as other world religions.

We are developing our approach to teaching and learning within the religious education

curriculum. This will be our focus for the next few years.

Religious education in catholic schools is designed to nurture faith and assist children to make

an informed response to God in Faith. Children in senior classes have opportunities to learn

about sex education and family relationships. This is in accordance with guidance for catholic

schools.

We have very strong and positive links with St Martin’s parish and work together especially in

preparing children to receive the sacraments.

Father Anthony Ejikeme is our school Chaplain. He helps the children prepare for the

sacraments.

We visit St Martin’s church for mass on feast days and at other times throughout the school

year.

As a denominational school our Christian ethos will be the guiding principles in the teaching and

learning of spiritual, social, and moral & cultural education. Parents have the right to withdraw

their child from religious education. Please speak to the head teacher if you wish this to

happen. Parents from ethnic minority religious communities may request that their children be

permitted to be absent from school in order to celebrate recognised religious events. Only

written requests detailing the proposed arrangements will be considered. Appropriate requests

will be granted on not more than three occasions in any one school session and the pupil noted as

an authorised absentee in the register.

ASSESSMENT

Continual assessment of the curriculum is carried out by the head teacher and staff. Each

teacher is constantly monitoring and assessing the progress of the pupils. This is done through:

a) observation b) oral feedback

c) written feedback d) class progress records e) standardised tests

A key feature of assessment is formative assessment. Formative assessment is the teacher and

child working together to support learning. It is about teachers giving effective feedback to

pupils

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and the active involvement of children in their learning. Oral progress reports are given to each

parent at the parent-teacher interviews.

However, parents are most welcome to call at the school or to telephone the head teacher at

any time to arrange an appointment to discuss their child’s assessment information/progress.

TRACKING

Self evaluation is a key feature in teaching and learning. Both staff and children engage in self

and peer evaluations to continually inform and improve standards across the school. Pupil

performance is tracked regularly by the class teacher and head teacher. Teachers meet with

the head teacher to ensure pupils are on track with their learning. Pupils are encouraged to

have a knowledge of the level that they are working on. Class teachers and the head teacher

keep records of pupil progress within levels. Pupils talk about their learning journey and have

knowledge of their personal targets.

REPORTING

There are two official parent/guardian evenings in St Martin’s and an annual written report.

Curriculum for Excellence is organised into different levels and your child’s report will tell you

about their progress in the levels throughout the year. The written report will include

information and teacher comments about:

(a) the breadth of learning your child has experienced within curricular areas

(b) the level of challenge planned for your child to ensure he/she is achieving his/her

full potential and being supported appropriately

(c) how well your child can apply learning in new and unfamiliar contexts

Level Stage

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

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

Second To the end of P7, but earlier for some

Third or Fourth S1 to S3, but earlier for some. The fourth level broadly equates to

Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Level 4. The fourth

level experiences and outcomes are intended to provide possibilities for

choice and young people’s programme will not included all of the fourth

level outcomes.

Senior Phase S4-S6 and college or other means of study

Progress within a curriculum level will be described as developing, consolidating or secure

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

All members of the School Community are treated equally and given equal opportunity to access

teaching and learning to each person’s potential.

All staff have a responsibility to ensure the council’s Equal Opportunities Policy is adhered to.

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RIGHTS RESPECTING SCHOOLS

Rights Respecting Schools recognise achievement in putting the rights of the child at the heart

of a school’s planning, policies, practice and ethos. A rights-respecting school not only teaches

about children’s rights but also models rights and respect in all its relationships: between

teachers/adults and pupils, between adults and between pupils. This provides a clear link for

pupils between building up their rights-respecting school, understanding their rights and the

need for the children’s rights to be realised everywhere. Children and young people in rights-

respecting schools develop a stronger sense of the need to act for global justice.

Pupils vote for one person from each year group and they form the pupil council. They are

responsible for gathering information on areas concerning other pupils. These are transmitted

to the principal teacher and the results of the conversation are passed to all other school pupils

via the minutes of the Pupil Council meeting and orally by the Pupil Council.

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ADDITIONAL SUPPORT NEEDS

Schools are required by law to ensure they are providing for children and your people who

require additional help with their learning. The Additional Support for Learning Act (ASL) 2009

requires that from 14th November 2012 schools improve on how we communicate with

parents/guardian on all aspects of the ASL Act. Detailed information on the changes resulting

from the legislation is available to all parents and recent publications on supporting learning

needs are available in the school foyer.

Supporting learners requiring additional support

Staff monitor the progress of children requiring support and provide learning materials suitable

to their level of development. All schools in West Dunbartonshire have a staged intervention

process for identifying pupils with support needs. Some pupils have support plans to help them

with particular aspects of their learning. Parents will always be informed about this and will be

invited to discuss support needs and plans with the head teacher at key times during the year.

Any parent/carer concerned about their child’s learning is welcome to visit the school to discuss

their concerns. Information is available about additional support on the council website and is

also available in the school reception area. Schools also have the support of Psychological

Services. The role of the educational psychologist is to lend support by interviewing, testing

and suggesting suitable work and materials for children whose learning or behaviour is causing

concern. Parents will always be consulted if a referral to the psychologist is being considered.

We aim to ensure that the learning experiences for all our pupils are appropriate. Our approach

to embrace the national policy of Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is to ensure that we

work effectively, and communicate successfully with parents and different agencies to ensure

maximum benefits for pupils.

PUPIL SUPPORT STRUCTURE

All staff in the school are required to be aware of child protection issues and are provided with

regular information on child protection policy and procedure. The school maintains close working

relationships with all other relevant agencies to ensure appropriate information is shared and

that professionals from various agencies work collaboratively for the wellbeing of the children

and young people. All staff have a responsibility to report concerns regarding the welfare or

safety of a child or young person to the head teacher. If the head teacher is of the view that

there may be grounds for concern the will immediately contact the duty senior social worker and

advise them of the circumstances. In St Martin’s we aim to get it right for every child

(GIRFEC). Our policy is to support pupils with all aspects of their learning and to ensure that

parents and pupils access support from different agencies out with education such as health,

social work and the wider community groups associated with supporting vulnerable pupils. We

try to ensure that our pupils are safe, healthy, achieving, attaining, nurtured, included and

fulfilling their potential. We work in partnership with parents and carers and ensure that our

pupils have an identified person that they can speak to, relate to and be supported by. We try

to remove barriers to learning and at all items consider how we can best include and support

individual pupils so that they continue to achieve.

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ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

In St Martin‘s we aspire to keep pupils feeling happy and safe at school. We aim to cooperate,

help and support each other.

Aims of our anti-bullying policy

That all staff, pupils and parents understand what bullying is and know exactly what action to

take if an incident of bullying takes place in school.

That all staff, pupils and parents know that bullying will not be tolerated in any form in St

Martin’s School.

That pupils and parents know they are encouraged to speak up about incidents of bullying and

not permit bullying to exist through secrecy and silence.

That all staff, pupils and parents know that any incidents of bullying will be dealt with quickly

and effectively when reported.

That our anti-bullying policy is recognised as part of a wider policy on ethos which encompasses

promoting positive behaviour, equal opportunities, child protection, promoting a healthy school

and anti-racism.

That our anti-bullying ethos can be highlighted in a number of curricular areas e.g. Religious and

Moral Education, Personal and Social Development, Drama, Art and Language.

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

What is Bullying?

Bullying can take many forms. In all forms it constitutes an abuse of power with the intention

of hurting the victim and inflicts various degrees of misery on the victim.

Neither bullies nor victims can be stereotyped. Though most victims are children who are

vulnerable and most bullies have either been bullied themselves or have other emotional

problems.

Forms of Bullying

Verbal name calling, taunting, sarcasm, making nasty comments, making inappropriate

personal comments about a child or his/her family on more than a one-off basis.

This is the most common form of bullying.

Physical punching, kicking, pushing, pinching, spitting or using any other form of violence.

A spontaneous fight over a dispute or children playing together in a rough way

does not constitute bullying.

Social by isolating or excluding a child from games or play on a regular basis.

Material by taking possessions, dinner monies, sweets through extortion.

Emotional by threatening a child, by using threatening gestures or by generally belittling a

child on a regular basis.

Procedures to Deal Effectively with Bullying

Regular talks and updates on bullying and its effects at weekly school assemblies.

Focus on bullying and its effects as integral part of Personal and Social Development.

The display of anti-bullying posters within the school

Parent updates on school policy in newsletters.

Continuation of building up promoting positive behaviour within school, including all reward

systems already in place.

Encouraging children to speak to an adult in school.

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HOMEWORK

Children will be encouraged to extend the skills taught in school through further practice and

research at home. The time spent on this should vary according to the age and development of

the child.

Homework might be set as follows:

Phonics, spelling, wordlists;

Practice in mathematical processes;

Reading of novels/short stories;

Practice in language conventions;

Home reading books;

Research/information collection;

Practice in skills of physical education;

Practice in musical activities;

Voluntary work, i.e. writing stories, poems, sketching etc.

As homework is for the benefit of your child you are asked to cooperate by seeing that the

work is completed and the homework signed. It is not the teacher’s responsibility to insist that

homework is completed. Parents/pupils have this responsibility. Concerns about homework

should be communicated to the head and an appointment with the class teacher will be

organised.

SCHOOL/COMMUNITY LINKS

The school is an integral part of the community and we encourage the children to realise that

they are members of the community and have a duty towards it.

We ensure that we develop our practices as a school community. We support each other in

school and encourage pupils to support each other. Pupils have opportunities to join different

groups and are encouraged to develop leadership skills and voice their opinions, leading to change

and new initiatives e.g. ECO group, pupil council, buddies etc.

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

The school has frequent visits from our parish priest, a wide range of support agencies, local

businesses and other visitors to support teaching and learning. In addition children visit local

businesses and attractions to enhance the curriculum.

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ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL

Section 30 of the 1980 Education Act lays a duty on every parent of a child of ‘school age’ to

ensure that their child attends school regularly.

Parents are asked to inform the school by letter or telephone if their child is likely to be absent

for some time, and to give the child a note on his or her return to school confirming the reason

for absence.

The Policies for parents document “Achievement Through Attendance”, available to all parents

from their children’s school outlines the importance of good attendance. If your child does not

arrive at school in the morning you will receive a phone call to yourself or next point of contact.

If no contact is made then a pupil and family support worker/social worker will be sent to the

family home. The reasons for this are to ensure pupil welfare.

The Scottish Government has now issued guidance to all local authorities indicating that family

holidays taken during term should be categorised as unauthorised absence (Curricular No. 5/03).

Clearly with no explanation from the parent the absence is unauthorised.

Only in very exceptional circumstances will it be possible for the head teacher, with the

approval of the local authority, to authorise a family holiday during term time.

No child is allowed to leave school during school hours without the permission of the head

teacher. Therefore, if it is essential for a child to leave class, for example for doctor, hospital

or dental appointment, an explanatory letter or the appropriate card should be sent in and the

child collected from school.

In the interests of safety no child will be allowed to leave the school unaccompanied to keep an

appointment or to meet a parent. The parent or guardian must come to the school for the child.

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

The school will monitor children’s absences, telephone parents to ask for explanation of absence

or send pupil and family support workers if a child is not at school and when necessary i.e. when

absences are below an acceptable level without reasonable explanation, will employ steps

outlined in the Attendance Policy. Excess absence means that the child/family will be referred

to the local education authority Attendance Review Committee.

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EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Extra curricular activities are available at different times in the school year.

Swimming, rugby, football, hockey, athletics, netball are offered to Primary 1-7 at different

times throughout the year and are organised by school staff and also sports coaches. During

the day sports coaches actively try to promote pupil attendance at evening clubs e.g. Rugby and

Netball.

P6 have worked with children at Riverside Nursery and will be their buddies when they come to

school next session.

All classes will have the opportunity to take part in a number of visits and outings related to

themed learning. Some of these visits will be within local or wider community.

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SCHOOL DISCIPLINE

In our school the relationship between the pupils and the staff is similar to that between

his/her own parent/guardian. As in the home, self discipline and self control are emphasised

throughout the school. We strive to lead the children to an understanding of social interaction,

co-operation and resolution of conflict. We employ solution orientated and restorative

approaches after disagreements. We try hard to be inclusive in our approach, ensuring that

pupils are treated fairly.

An adult presence is provided in playgrounds at break times in terms of the Schools (Safety and

Supervision of Pupils) (Scotland) Regulations, 1990.

However, as in the home, children may need to be disciplined on occasions within the schools.

Sanctions include:

Non-verbal cues, silences, disapproving gestures

Verbal reprimands to individuals, group, class

Threat of movement to another seat in class

Movement of seat

Withdrawal of privileges

Additional work at interval and/or lunchtime

After repeated warnings staff will begin to record incidents

After three recorded incidents or sooner if the teacher is concerned, there will be

discussion of the child’s behaviour between the class teacher and the head teacher

Intervention by head teacher and oral warning of parental involvement

Parental involvement through visit to the school to discuss the child’s behaviour

Contract drawn up between the home, child and the school when appropriate

If the child continues to misbehave, the head teacher may exclude the child

We believe that through good home-school relationships good discipline can be established and

maintained. Pupils are encouraged to show respect for self and others. Staff model good

relationships and positive interactions with others. Pupils are treated fairly; with respect and

pupils are encouraged to treat adults and others with respect. Staff seek and utilise different

approaches to encourage pupils to behave positively, show high levels of motivation and a

positive ethic.

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CLOTHING AND UNIFORM

Pupils attending schools within West Dunbartonshire Council are strongly encouraged to wear a

school uniform. Our contact with parents in recent years has also made us aware that the vast

majority are in favour of uniform. The wearing of school uniform helps promote the identity of

the school in the local community and helps create an ethos of sharing and pride in the school.

Most people tend to form opinions about a school by the appearance and behaviour of the pupils.

West Dunbartonshire Council supports the wearing of school uniform in all of its schools

because it:

Improves school security by making it easier to identify intruders

Builds a sense of identity and belonging to the school

Gives pupils an equality of appearance thereby discouraging competition

Is cheaper to buy than other clothing which pupils may wish to wear

Encourages school discipline and a work ethic amongst pupils

The forms of dress which are unacceptable in school are items of clothing which:

Potentially encourage faction (such as football colours)

Could cause offence (such as anti-religious or political symbolism)

Could cause health and safety difficulties, such as loose fitting clothing, sportswear

made of flammable material, and body piercings/jewellery for PE and sport

Could cause damage to flooring

Carry advertising, particularly for alcohol or tobacco

Could be used to inflict damage on other pupils or be used by others to do

Are valuable or expensive items of clothing or jewellery which present a security issue

for the school

Some pupils may be eligible for a clothing grant. Parents can ask at the school office or they

can access information on the council website.

The agreed school uniform for St Martin’s School is:

Boy/Girls

White Shirt/Blouse

Grey Trousers/Grey Skirt

Grey V Neck Pullover/Grey Cardigan/Grey V Neck Sweatshirt

School Tie (available from school)

Girls can wear grey school trousers from after the October break until the end of the Easter

Holidays

Green/Black Fleece Jackets with School Crest

These items can be purchased at the School Office.

All belongings should be clearly marked/labelled with your child’s name and class to ensure it

does not get lost.

On gym days children should be able to remove their own earrings/jewellery.

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SCHOOL MEALS

The school offers a selection of healthy school meals. Money for school meals should be sent to

the school each day.

The Menu for our school meals is available in the Dinning Hall and on the West Dunbartonshire

Council Website. Special diets are available and parents are asked to let us know if their child

requires a special diet for medical reasons.

Provision is made in the lunch hall for children who bring their own home prepared packed lunch.

Children from Primary 1 – Primary 3 will be entitled to a free school meal.

Some children in Primary 4 – Primary 7 may be entitled to a free school meal and parents can ask

at the school office or they can access the information on the council website www.west-

dunbarton.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools. Appendix 1 of our handbook has a copy of the

application form for information.

TRANSPORT

If you live more than one mile from the school you may be able to apply for assistance with

transport costs. Application forms and information on transport are available on the council

website and must be submitted by the end of February each year to enable the appropriate

arrangements to be made.

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO

In line with Council Policy no photography of individuals is permitted on council premises where

there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without their consent or in the case of children

under 12 years, the consent of their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians will be asked to give

written permission on an annual basis for their child to be photographed or videoed for specific

purposes related to the life and work of the school and the education service.

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MEDICAL AND HEALTH CARE

West Dunbartonshire Council has strict guidelines and policy on administration of medicines.

Consent/information must be given if medicine is to be administered in school. In our school we

have a member of staff who is designated to administer first aid to assist with minor injuries

and accidents. Parents are asked to inform the school of any medical requirements of their

child.

While the school provides minor first aid treatment, parents should provide the school with an

emergency contact so that children can be taken home if illness occurs. The school should be

notified immediately if the emergency contact changes.

Minor accidents will be dealt with in school by staff members. In the event of a serious

accident the child will be taken directly to the Vale of Leven Hospital or Royal Alexandria

Hospital, Paisley. Parents will be notified immediately. Minor injuries will be noted in our

accident log book and a note of this will be given to the child to take home. In the event of

more serious injuries and all head injuries, parents will be contacted by telephone.

The school nurse is involved with all aspects of health screening and health education. Hearing,

vision and dental checks are also carried out throughout the year. Primary 1 and 2 take part in a

tooth-brushing intiative.

INFORMATION IN EMERGENCIES

We make every effort to maintain a full educational service, but on some occasions

circumstances arise which lead to disruption. Schools may be affected by, for example, severe

weather, temporary interruption of transport, power failures or difficulties of fuel supply. In

such cases we shall do all we can to let you know about the details of closure or re-opening. We

shall keep you in touch by using text letters, notices in local shops and community centres,

announcements in local churches and announcements in the press and local radio. You will also be

able to access up to date information from the West Dunbartonshire Council website. This can

be located at www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk.

It is normal practice within West Dunbartonshire Council to operate a helpline when

emergencies arise. Details will be made available when an occasion arises.

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PARENT INVOLVEMENT

“Parents” are referred to throughout the 2012 Regulations and the School Handbook

Guidance where by the definition of “parent” includes guardian and any person who is liable

to maintain or has parental responsibilities (within the meaning of section 1 of the Children

(Scotland) Act 1995 in relation to, or has care of a child or young person.

Co-operation between the home and the school is essential for the wellbeing of the child.

Parents are very welcome to discuss any aspect of their child’s development or progress. It is

advisable to telephone first to make an appointment. There are various opportunities

throughout the year when parents can discuss their child’s progress with the class teacher and

view children’s work. Information on these and other activities is communicated to parents in

newsletters, text or by a note taken home by the children. Open evening for parents is in

March. Alternative arrangements can be made for parents who are not available to attend on

the agreed parent information evening.

Parental opinion or comments will be sought and we welcome responses from parents. Please try

to respond so that your feedback can be part of any changes introduced. Additional curriculum

meetings are held throughout the year. Parents are welcome to help with a variety of activities.

Let us know if you can help in this way.

Throughout the year, parents are invited to take part in different activities or attend school

functions. Parents are also informed on aspects of school life in every newsletter as well as

consulted through an annual audit on our service standards.

Accessible and readily available information on local clubs, events and school events, etc. is

contained on the notice boards within the school.

THE PARENT COUNCIL

St Martin’s Primary has an active Parent Council which is committed to supporting the life and

work of the school. As a new parent you will be invited to join the Parent Council or take part in

fundraising initiatives during the school year. See contact details on school website for further

information on parental involvement.

Our parent council members give generously of their time for a meeting each term to discuss

how they can best support the school with different projects. They plan and organise specific

fund raisers.

Parents on the parent council represent the wider parent group and often represent viewpoints

leading to changes in procedures and routines in the school. New members are very welcome.

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TRANSFER FROM PRIMARY TO SECONDARY SCHOOL

Pupils are normally transferred between the ages of eleven and twelve so that they will have the

opportunity to complete at least four years of secondary education. Parents will be informed of

the arrangements no later than December of the year preceding the date of transfer at the

start of the new session.

Children from St Martin’s normally transfer to Our Lady & St Patrick’s High School.

Our Lady & St Patrick’s High School

Howatshaws Road

Bellsmyre

G82 3DR

Tel: 01389 773920

DATA PROTECTION ACT 1984

Information on parents and guardians is stored on a computer system and may be used for

teaching, registration, assessment and other administrative duties. The information is

protected by the Data Protection Act 1984 and may only be disclosed in accordance with the

Codes of Practice. For further information please contact the school.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social Media has become an extremely valuable communication tool for many parents to quickly

share information and updates with fellow school parents and friends. It can have important

benefits to promote the activity of our schools and we support its increased use.

We would however ask for parents to be responsible and restrained when discussing school

matters on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Some negative comments can cause

distress to school communities, alarm parents and pupils or unfairly tarnish employees.

Whatever the circumstances, we believe it is completely unacceptable for anyone to use social

media to make remarks about named or identifiable staff, parents or pupils.

If you have an individual complaint about a school matter we would call upon parents to raise

these directly with the school or through the Council’s complaints process rather than social

media.

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SAINT MARTIN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

OUR SERVICE STANDARDS

The following Standards of Service are also in place in St Martin’s:

Monitor your child’s performance and report to you annually

Hold two parent’s meetings annually

Offer additional meetings with staff if necessary and appropriate

All primary 1 classes will have no more than 25 pupils

All primary 2 and 3 classes will have no more than 30 pupils

Multi + Composite classes will have a maximum of 25 pupils

Newsletters to be sent home at regular intervals.

Parents will have the opportunity to comment on school affairs in every newsletter

Parents will have access to school handbook

Parents will have access to the full Standards & Quality Report

Parents will be sent home a summary account of the Standards and Quality Report in August

Parents will be given the opportunity to take part in a school audit annually

If there is a serious problem with your child we will contact your immediately

If your child is unwell we will contact you immediately

All letters will be answered within five working days

All school staff will be polite and courteous at all times

All complaints will be dealt with in line with complaints procedure

All relevant Local Authority policies for parents can be accessed at www.west-

dunbarton.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools. (If the policy you are looking for is not

available on the website then please contact the school office or contact the council via the

website).

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IMPORTANT ADDRESSES

Ms Laura Mason

Chief Education Officer

of Educational Services

West Dunbartonshire Council

Council Offices

Garshake Road

Dumbarton

G82 3PU

Mr James Bollan

Councillor

West Dunbartonshire Council

Council Offices

Garshake Road

Dumbarton

G82 3PU

Jackie Baillie

MSP

11 Castle Street

Dumbarton

G82

Community, Learning & Developing

(CL&D)

Aurora House

Aurora Avenue

Clydebank

G81 1BF

Vale of Leven Education Office

77 Bank Street

Alexandria

G83

Although this information is correct at time of printing, there could be changes affecting any of

the matters dealt with in the document:

(a) before the commencement or during the course of the school year in question

(b) in relation to subsequent school years.

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Translations and Interpretation

The Council provides interpreters and translated materials on request. Further details on the

services provided are detailed below.

Telephone Interpreting

The Council provides a 24 hour telephone interpreting service. The current provider is Language

Line. We are currently reviewing our translation and interpretation services. The telephone

interpreting service is simple and easy to use and the supporting material makes it easy to

identify language requirements in face-to-face situations.

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

from here.

Face-to-Face Interpretation

Where services need to provide information in community languages, guidance is provided within

‘Communicating Effectively’. This includes a list of approved contracts and is available on the

Council’s website or from Community Planning and Policy. Interpreters can be engaged to assist

at meetings or in other situations as required.

Translating Text

All council publications must be offered in alternative formats or community languages. It may

not be cost effective to translate a large publication, and in these instances a summary version

of the document should be offered, or a meeting, supported by an interpreter, could be

arranged to explain the key issues.

Download examples of the standard phrase in community languages:

We are currently reviewing our translated materials and the languages they are provided in and

working with relevant community groups on this.

For further information on where to access translation services or for any of the times

mentioned above, please contact:

Policy Development Officer

Community Planning and Policy

3rd Floor, Council Offices

Garshake Road

Dumbarton

G82 3PU

Tel: 01389 737269

Email: community.planning@west-dunbarton.gov.uk

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Local Learning Communities

All educational establishments within West Dunbartonshire Council are members of a Local

Learning Community (LLC). These LLC’s are made up to one secondary school and its associated

primary schools and include a number of Early Education and Childcare Centres and Partnership

Nurseries. St Martin’s Primary School is a member of Our Lady & St Patrick’s High School Local

Learning Community.

The five Learning Communities in West Dunbartonshire have been established as part of West

Dunbartonshire’s educational improvement strategy. This strategy has a clear focus to raise

educational aspirations, achievement and attainment of all pupils while improving the skill and

knowledge of all staff involved in the education of children and young people.

Mr Kennedy represents St Martin’s Primary School on Our Lady & St Patrick’s High School LLC;

however other members of staff may attend meetings in support of improvement work. Our

Lady & St Patrick’s High School LLC is led by Julie McGrogan, Senior Education Officer who is

assisted by the school’s Education Officer Kathy Morrison.

Updates on the work of the LLC’s will be made available through parent council meetings and

through Standards and Quality reporting.

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Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) is the Scottish Government’s approach to promoting and

safeguarding the wellbeing of children in Scotland. In most cases the families around each child will

be able to offer all the help and support that is needed. However, there are times when a child may

need a bit of extra help. The GIRFEC approach is there to make it as easy as possible to get that help

when it is needed.

The GIRFEC policy requires that every child and young person and their family have access to help

and support from a Named Person. The role of the Named Person is to safeguard and support the

wellbeing of children and young people very much like the support that has always been offered by

key members of staff in school. This new role of Named Person is integrated into the current role of

key promoted members of staff in schools and serves to strengthen the support they currently

provide, formalising their role as a central point of contact for children, parents and other people

working with them.

Below, you will find the names of the members of staff who have been given the role of Named

Person for each age group of children along with the arrangements for cover in the event of

absence.

It is our intention to support the wellbeing and safeguarding of all of our young people to ensure

that they have access to positive outcomes, choices and destinations; however, parents are

reminded that the Named Person will only offer advice or support in response to a request from a

child or parent, or when a wellbeing need has been identified. There is no obligation to accept the

offer of advice or support from a Named Person.

At St Martin’s Primary School your child’s Named Person can be contacted on 01389 753044 and

the allocation will be as follows;

Class Named Person DHT/HT & Named Person Absence Cover

P1/2 Mr C Kennedy Mrs J McKenna

P3/4 Mr C Kennedy Mrs J McKenna

P5/6/7 Mr C Kennedy Mrs J McKenna

Holiday Cover

The GIRFEC policy also recommends the local authorities provide continuity of the Named person

Service during school holiday periods. At these times the Named Person Service will be provided by

suitably qualified staff from the Central Named Person Service at the Council Offices. See contact

details below.

Central Service Named Person Service:

Joanne Scott (Education Support Officer) 01389 737303

education.nps@wdc.gcsx.gov.uk

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