Prospectus
Reception children make autumn pictures
HOME-SCHOOL LINKS
We recognise that parents have a vital role to play in the education of their children and aim from the beginning to foster positive home/school links. Parents are asked to sign a Home/School Agreement when their child starts school.
ASSESSMENT
Early Years Foundation Stage Profile

In order to establish the child’s stage of development, Foundation stage profiling collects evidence of attainment across all Early Learning Goals throughout the year. At the end of Reception this is used to establish targets for future learning.
THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM
Curriculum 2000 consists of five core subjects; English, Maths, Science, I.C.T. and R.E. These are supplemented by the non-core foundation subjects of Art, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education, Design Technology and French.
The National Curriculum subjects are taught both separately and in cross curricular topics/projects over a two year cycle.
Policy documents on all subjects are available in school.
LITERACY
We follow all elements of the National Literacy Framework. A high standard of both verbal and written communication is the aim following the three main aspects of literacy:-
1.   writing, including spelling and handwriting.
2.   speaking, listening and drama.
3.   reading.
Children will be involved in a range of activities (some cross-curricular) which develop listening skills and their ability to communicate. They will be encouraged to read fluently with enjoyment and understanding. A variety of methods is used to develop reading and writing skills. Guided reading, writing for different audiences, the learning of key words and spellings and phonic work are some of the activities that take place.
The school uses a range of reading scheme books to teach children to read. The Core Scheme is Oxford Reading Tree, supplemented by Ginn 360, Upstarts, All Aboard, Sunshine Books, Bangers and Mash and a variety of others which give children the opportunity to practise at their own level. Ideally parents should share a regular reading session with their children at home as opportunities for hearing individual readers in school are limited by the Literacy Strategy.
       Cluster Activity: Year 5 Writers’ Workshop at Appleton Wiske School led by author Wes Magee
NUMERACY
The underlying aim of all our mathematics work is to equip children with the skills and knowledge which will enable them to cope confidently throughout life. We believe in a practical approach which promotes enjoyment and understanding.
We follow the National Numeracy Framework using a variety of resources to provide both formal and investigative experiences. A great emphasis is placed on the development of mental maths agility and strategies.
SCIENCE
Science should relate to the children’s experiences and give them opportunity to explore and seek explanations for their immediate environment. We use a wide range of apparatus and equipment to stimulate learning and benefit from field study visits as appropriate.
R.E.
We follow the guidelines given in the North Yorkshire Agreed Syllabus. Christianity is the primary religion and is taught throughout the year to all children. As additional faiths alongside Christianity, children in Key Stage 2 learn about the principal features of Islam and in Key Stage 1, Hinduism is taught. All children learn about Judaism. Children are also taught to have an awareness and concern for the world around them and for their fellow human beings. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from RE: however, by choosing to send their children to a Church of England school they should acknowledge that the ethos of the school is underpinned by Christian values.
Whole school visit to Darlington Synagogue.
I.C.T.
We have twelve internally networked P.C.s, with Broadband Internet access, 26 laptops, two scanners, 4 digital cameras and a digital video recorder. In addition we use Digiblue cameras and digital voice recorders. All classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards. We use the Internet to develop links with other children around the world including Zambia, Switzerland, Sri Lanka and Australia. We have our own website croftprimaryschool.org. We use a wide range of software to complement Literacy and Numeracy strategies and to supplement and extend pupils' knowledge in other subjects. All pupils are taught how to access, retrieve and store information, Word Processing, Data Handling, Simulations, Control and Monitoring, and to use other technology, e.g. Photocopiers, Video and DVD Players, Tape Recorders, Keyboards and Programmable Floor Robots, confidently. In a rapidly changing field both Hardware and Software are regularly renewed and updated and the School Association plays an important and supportive role here. In 2009 we will be developing our e Learning platform which can be used in school and eventually at home by children and their parents. It is accessed via the internet and provides an additional learning environment. Information can be disseminated to parents through the system and children can upload work done in school to show their parents.
HISTORY
Through the study of history we hope the children will understand their present world in the light of the past and find stimulation and interest from the variety of learning experiences, including visits to places such as Eden Camp and Beamish Museum.
GEOGRAPHY
Through a variety of approaches children are provided with opportunities to acquire a sense of place, recognise physical features, and gain an understanding of the relationship between people and their environment. Children are taught how to make and use maps, interpretation of aerial and oblique photographs and local studies provide an opportunity to compare and contrast different locations of a similar size in the U.K.
By studying and promoting links with European and Non-European countries we help children develop positive attitudes towards environments, people and cultures, which is recognised by our achievement of an International School Award by the British Council.
ART : ARTSMARK GOLD
Children learn to appreciate the work of other artists and designers. They learn about colour and form and are taught a wide range of skills and techniques in various media utilising many different materials. They explore and express their own ideas and evaluate their own work and the work of others. Childrens’ learning is enhanced and reinforced in other subjects by good display and illustrations.
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY
D.T. involves children exploring a problem and finding a practical solution. They draw plans, gather materials and resources and prepare equipment and projects include food preparation, use of plastics, fabrics and materials, building using construction apparatus or natural materials such as wood, the drawing of maps and plans, constructing games and making ‘junk’ models.
Class 4 create a Dalek for the village Scarecrow Competition.
MUSIC
Children will experience music by listening and responding to a variety of music. They will learn through singing, composing and playing simple instruments. There is a tradition of music in the school and children may have the opportunity to receive extra tuition on recorders or be taught by peripatetic teachers to sing and/or play stringed and wind instruments, keyboards and guitars. Loan Instruments are available in school.
African Drumming Workshop
FRENCH
The French Café is hosted by Class 4 pupils.
French is an integral part of the Class 4 curriculum. The subject is taught primarily through conversation and role play using T.V., Video and I.T. where appropriate. Games are played to reinforce vocabulary. We run a French café in the summer term for parents of Class 4 children.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Through a minimum of 2 hours of activity a week in the curriculum, children experience six aspects of P.E.: Gymnastics, Movement/Dance,
Athletics, Swimming, Games and Outdoor Activities. We also offer an extensive range of extra curricular activities. We aim to develop sporting attitudes, teach skills and knowledge, create confidence, have fun and encourage an awareness of safety, health and fitness. We enjoy inter-school tournaments. Croft School is linked with Thirsk School Sports Hub. During the holidays, sports events are organized at school by the Out of School Club.
CROSS CURRICULAR THEMES.

The following cross curricular themes run through the curriculum delivered to the children: Health Education, Personal and Social Education, Economic and Industrial Understanding, Environmental Education, Citizenship European and Global Awareness.

ASSESSMENT

Statutory assessment takes place at the end of Years 2 and 6. National standardised assessment for Years 1, 3, 4 and 5 is carried out in the summer term. Early Years Foundation Stage profiles are built up over the Foundation Stage years.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY.

Our aim is to realise the potential of all our children and staff and to end discrimination, wherever it may exist, on grounds of gender, race, national origin, religion or disablement.
We also aim to educate the children to appreciate and value the cultural diversity within our society.


SEX EDUCATION

The school governors have a written policy on the provision of Sex Education within the school, a copy of which is available to parents upon request. As part of the wider personal, social and health education within the school the governors' Sex Education Policy aims:-


In the term before moving to Secondary school, the School Nurse visits to give more specific advice to the Y6 pupils. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from these lessons but it is hoped they would discuss this first with the Headteacher before making any decision.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES.

There are several out of school activities organised for children. These operate during lunchtime or after school, although woodwind and string lessons normally operate in lesson time. After school activities normally finish at 4:30pm.



During the school year these will include:-

The NYCC Peripatetic Music Service provides voice, string and woodwind tuition to our children in school. The service is chargeable, with current rates of £57.80 (2009-2010) per pupil per term for tuition in a group of up to four. Individual lessons can be arranged. However, remission exists to help parents who are in receipt of Working Tax Credit, Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance or Child Tax Credit and there are discounts for brothers and sisters, with schemes to spread the cost. If you require details, please contact the Headteacher. In order to encourage music within school we have purchased a number of instruments which can be loaned to pupils.
We also have several recorder groups in school provided free of charge. Although we do have a few recorders in school which we are willing to lend out, it is more hygienic if children have their own recorders.
P.E. KIT
Please see the uniform list. Junior children who may use the field in winter for games will need a pair of training shoes, football boots or old outdoor shoes to change into. They may also wear tracksuits in cold weather.
SWIMMING KIT
When children go swimming they will need to take a swimming costume, trunks, and a towel. These are best kept in a named plastic carrier bag. Children with long hair should wear a swimming hat or ensure that their hair is securely tied back.
JEWELLERY
For safety reasons jewellery other than a wrist watch must not be worn at school. If children have pierced ears only studs should be worn at school. For health and safety reasons the L.A. insists that all watches and ear studs must be removed for P.E. and swimming. Your child is responsible for removing and storing these items of jewellery during P.E. lessons.
NAMING CLOTHING AND LOST PROPERTY.
Please ensure that all property and items of clothing and footwear are clearly marked with your child’s name.
TIMING OF THE SCHOOL DAY.
9:00am Registration. Registers close at 9:10am, after which children must report to the Office. Children should not arrive at school before 8:50am, unless by prior arrangement, as supervision is not be available until then.
12:00pm - 1:00pm Lunchtime when children are cared for by the Lunchtime Supervisory Team. A few children go home at lunchtime, but most stay to eat a packed lunch or a meal prepared by the school’s Kitchen Staff.
3:30pm School ends for all children to suit taxi arrangements.
There are two short breaks, of 15 minutes each, during the day, and around 20 minutes is spent in Collective Worship. The hours spent in teaching for all children are 23 hours 20 minutes per week.
Croft Out-of-School Club is open between 8.00 am and 9.00 am, and 3.30 pm. and 6.00 pm. every day, and all day during school holidays.
UNAVOIDABLE CLOSURE.
On very rare occasions it is sometimes necessary to close the school at short notice and not as part of a listed school break. This might occur as a result of power failure, loss of heating, absence of water or of a natural emergency such as infectious epidemic, flooding or very heavy snow preventing teaching, support staff and children from attending.
The decision to close the school under such circumstances is a very serious one involving discussion with Governors, L.A. Representatives, Police or the Senior Medical Officers. We will normally try to contact parents through the emergency numbers system. This works only through parents giving us current emergency contact numbers should they be working through the day. If a parent wishes they may nominate a relative or a friend to take charge of their child in the event of an unavoidable closure. The same system is in operation should a child become ill during the school day.
So that parents are aware of our intentions to return to school a notice will be pinned to the main entrance door and a message giving the latest information placed on the school answer phone system. Alternatively, messages will be given out on BBC Radio York Information and Snowdesk Information Services and those of Radio Cleveland. These frequencies are 103 - 4 MHz and 95.0 MHz F.M. respectively. Parents should be assured that we will not permit any child to leave the premises without having made contact with parents or their nominated contact.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS.
Children who live within the catchment area but more than two miles from the school, by the nearest measured walking route, have an entitlement to taxi transportation into and from school. If you believe your child qualifies for this entitlement you should contact The Passenger Transport Group of the Highways and Transport Department at County Hall, Northallerton.
PARENTAL RIGHTS AND THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM.
In planning our collective worship we acknowledge diocesan policy on worship in primary schools. We also acknowledge the legal right of parents to withdraw their children from acts of worship and R.E. lessons. We would however ask that if parents wish to consider such action that they first contact the Headteacher who will be able to explain the policy within school. The Headteacher will make alternative arrangements for these children.
We operate a programme of Health and Sex Education throughout the school. Parents have a legal right to withdraw their children from certain aspects of this programme. Again, we ask that parents should consult the Headteacher before making a decision.
Should parents wish to withdraw their children from any of the above, they must make a written request to the Governors, who will then consider the matter and respond appropriately. Requests should be made to the Clerk to the Governors, and addressed to the school.
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
There are a number of documents in school which parents may like to view or have copies of. These include current National Curriculum Documents, Policies and Schemes of Work used in school DfES circulars, school performance tables and prospectuses from local secondary schools.
An annual report is issued for your child in the summer term and there are parents’ evenings in the Autumn and Spring terms. Information about these will be sent home in advance and appointment sheets are put up at school a week beforehand.
School newsletters are issued weekly and give information about school activities, diary dates, health and safety notices etc. These are sent home in your child’s blue bag along with any other letters; please check your child’s bag regularly. Information is also posted on the school website www.croftprimaryschool.org.
POLICY FOR DEALING WITH COMPLAINTS.
The School Governors are confident most difficulties between parents and school can be resolved amicably through discussion with the Headteacher and/or a member of staff.
However, if a difficulty cannot be resolved by such discussion, parents are able to make a formal complaint to the Governing Body. Details of the ‘Formal Complaint Procedure’ are available from school.
HOME/SCHOOL AGREEMENT.
We ask all parents to read and sign our Home/School Agreement, and - if they think their child is old enough to understand - to explain its contents and ask their child to sign as well.
This document clearly sets out the expectations of school, parents and children, and gives a direction and guide to help our home/school relationship.
HEALTH AND SAFETY.
Road Safety.
Many children from Hurworth or Hurworth Place have to cross the main road in order to get to school. We suggest using the traffic island in front of the Post Office or the Croft Hotel. We ask please, that parents drive and park with consideration down South Parade having due regard to speed and the likelihood of pedestrians stepping off the pavement. In order to relieve congestion, we would ask as many parents as possible to park in the village hall car park and walk to school.
Please do not drive into the school premises and drop your children off in the car park. Children should arrive and be collected from the school playground.
The children know where they should enter school grounds and that they must not use the vehicular access.
Dogs are not allowed on the school premises. (Guide dogs excepted).
Medical And Pastoral Care.
The School Nurse, Mrs. Pickles, also monitors the health and development of the children. Parents may get advice from the School Nurse who can be contacted through the Richmond Clinic or through the school.
The school has members of staff who have undergone training in Paediatric First Aid. If your child has a medical problem, for example a speech or hearing problem, or a sustained period of ill-health, parents should contact the Headteacher who will advise them as to the best course of action.
The Headteacher and staff are always willing to discuss with parents any problems concerning children and their home life as these may often affect the children in school.
Asthma.
A number of children who are Asthma sufferers have Salbutamol (Ventolin) inhalers in school. These offer an immediate measure of relief for their condition. The children know when they need to take such medicine and administer it to themselves. Sometimes for safe keeping these are kept in the medicine cupboard. Whether children take care of them personally or we store them, it is important that whenever children are out of school on visits or activities, they take their medication with them and that it is clearly labelled with their name.
In the event of an Asthma attack we cannot use another child’s inhaler as these are prescribed by your doctor, for your child individually.
Should you have medicines kept in school their use-by date should be checked periodically.
Child protection
Croft School is committed to ensuring the welfare and safety of all children in school. All North Yorkshire schools, including Croft School, follow the North Yorkshire Safeguarding Children Board procedures and the LA Education procedures. The school will, in most circumstances, endeavour to discuss all concerns with parents about their child/ren. However, there may be exceptional circumstances when the school will discuss concerns with Social Care and/or the Police without parental knowledge (in accordance with Child Protection procedures). The school will, of course, always aim to maintain a positive relationship with all parents.
The designated person responsible for Child Protection is Mrs Higgins.
Photography
Under the Data Protection Act we are required to ask for your permission to take your child’s photograph for use in school, on displays, in the prospectus, in the media and/or on the website. A consent form will be issued before your child starts school.
THE ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES IN SCHOOL
Parents are advised that pupils who are unwell should not be sent to school. However, doctors frequently advise that pupils may attend school while still needing to take medicine, either because they are suffering from some chronic illness or allergy (such as Diabetes or Asthma) or because they are recovering from a short-term illness and are undergoing a course of treatments needing antibiotics.
If your child needs a dose of medicine at lunchtime, you are responsible for its administration and the child should return home for this, or a parent should come to school to administer the medicine.
If this is not feasible, the smallest practicable dose should be brought to school (by a parent) with CLEAR WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS for administration, giving the name of the pupil. To aid you in this respect we have prepared a form for this purpose, available from the office, for each occasion.
The school cannot administer medicines where:-
*     They have not been prescribed;
*     The timing of its administration is crucial;
*     Some technical or medical knowledge or expertise is required;
*     Intimate contact is necessary.
Occasionally children become unwell while at school. In order to minimise their distress we will contact you as soon as possible so that you can make arrangements for their collection. To this end you will be issued with an emergency numbers form, which we ask you to return to school. Please keep us informed of any changes.
In the event of an outbreak of Rubella (German Measles) in school, you will be informed by the posting of large notices in the staffroom and infant classroom windows, clearly visible from the playground, so that mothers in the early months of pregnancy can avoid contact.
For your guidance the following is a list of the most common notifiable diseases/infections together with a minimum period of exclusion from school.
Chicken Pox                   
Five days from onset of rash
German Measles             
Sex days from onset of rash
Whooping Cough           
Five days from commencing antibiotic treatment
Impetigo/Scabies            
Until skin has healed or 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment
Headlice/Nits                  
Until after treatment - only where headlice are seen – please remember to check your child’s head regularly
Hepatitis A                    
Seven days from onset of jaundice
Measles                        
Four days from onset of rash
Mumps                         
Five days from onset of swollen glands
Diarrhoea/Vomiting
48 hours after diarrhoea and vomiting has settled
HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY
BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT
Care and consideration for the rights and feelings of others are an integral part of our school ethos. We expect appropriate standards of behaviour at all times inside and outside of the classroom.
The school has a positive approach to discipline. We expect and reward effort, achievement and good behaviour and use any problems as learning experiences. It is a ‘telling school’, we encourage the children to tell an adult if they have a problem they cannot deal with. If your child expresses a worry or concern to you at home regarding a problem at school please contact your child’s class teacher. We recognise and value the support of parents. If there is a discipline problem at school we will contact you so that we may consider and solve it together. The school has a written behaviour policy, available to parents upon request. This explains our code of conduct, the school rules and sanctions which may be applied.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
We have adopted ‘school dress’ as part of our overall discipline policy. We believe that a neat, smart appearance engenders a similar attitude towards work, and fosters a greater feeling of unity. Please see our uniform list.
LUNCHTIME ARRANGEMENTS
SCHOOL LUNCHES
Croft is independent of any catering contracts. School lunches are prepared using top quality ingredients from local suppliers and cooked in the school kitchen by our cook, Mrs Breeze. Meals are of a high standard with the emphasis on healthy foods and comply with the government Nutritional Standards. The menu is varied with a choice of two main courses and a salad, two desserts and fresh fruit and is displayed in the school at the beginning of the week and on the school website. Water is always served with the school lunch and occasionally milk, juice or hot chocolate. Chilled water is available throughout the day and we encourage children to bring in a named water bottle for their own use. Special diets can be organised by arrangement with the cook.
  1. It is the intention of the governors of Croft C. of E. Primary School to pursue the objectives of and co-operate with North Yorkshire County Council in respect of health and safety.

  1. The Local Education Authority’s Policy on Health and Safety is contained in the red A4 Health and Safety ring binder. A copy is kept in the staffroom and is available to all staff.

  1. The LA, Governors and all staff share a responsibility for health and safety. Named persons with a duty of monitoring Health and Safety are Mrs. Higgins and Mrs. Russell.

  1. The stated aims of the Governors are limited by the extent of the LA’s scheme of delegation for Local Management of Schools.

  1. The Governors aim to:

  1. Establish and maintain a safe and healthy environment throughout the school.

  1. Establish and maintain safe working procedures and practices for staff and pupils.

  1. Teach safety wherever relevant.

  1. Raise awareness and encourage involvement and participation through consultation so as to develop a safety culture.

  1. In order to realise these aims the governors will:

  1. Produce written statements of the arrangements for health and safety within the School which will form appendices to this document and which will be brought to the attention of all staff.

  1. Monitor the effectiveness of these arrangements and review, revise and republish them when necessary.

  1. Seek to resolve health and safety problems raised by staff which have not been dealt with at a lower level.

  1. Report to the LA those issues which are beyond the limits of the Governors’ responsibilities, but take appropriate short term steps to minimise the risk involved in pending rectification.

  1. Note health and safety advice and act upon health and safety instructions issued by the LA and ensure that this document and any appendices to it reflect such advice and instructions.

  1. Consult and co-operate, so far as is reasonable, with safety representatives appointed to represent staff at the school.

  1. Ensure that all areas of the school are inspected regularly (NB Such inspections are necessary to check compliance with the school’s stated arrangements and are in addition to the inspections performed by safety representatives, although joint inspections may be appropriate).

  1. Establish a procedure for recording, reporting and investigating accidents and take all reasonable steps to prevent recurrences. Any child or visitor on the premises who sustains an injury needing hospital treatment, should be reported to the Health and Safety Officer at County Hall. Similarly, if a member of staff sustains an injury on school premises which causes them to be unavailable for work for 3 days or more, the same procedure must be followed.

  1. Ensure that contractors working at the school are informed of any hazards arising from the premises or from the school’s activities, and consider the effects of the contractors’ work on staff and pupils.

  1. Ensure that any visitors, whether invited guests, parents or those hiring or using school premises, are given appropriate health and safety information.

  1. Arrange for new staff, and those providing supply cover, to be briefed about the school’s health and safety arrangements. New employees in particular will be given a copy of this document and the appendices to it.

  1. Make effective arrangements for the evacuation of the school in the event of fire or other emergency.

  1. Ensure that all adults having substantial access to children have CRB clearance.

  1. Ensure that Health and Safety issues are taken into account and that a risk assessment is undertaken when planning school visits: (refer to School Visits and Transport Policy).

  1. Ensure that Risk Assessments are made for potentially hazardous situations. (See Appendices).

  1. Ensure that Health and Safety issues are taken into account when fund-raising activities are planned and that risk assessments are undertaken where necessary.        


School lunches are provided at a current cost of £1.85 per day. Lunches are paid for weekly, in advance and must be paid on the first day of the school week. If dinner money does not come into school on Monday mornings it has serious repercussions on the administration time. The money should be in a named purse or sealed envelope. Any cheques should be made payable to Croft Primary School and must be for the exact amount. Any balance will be credited during the week or in the case of lunches paid for but not taken, the following week.
Free school meals are available to children from families receiving Family Income Support. If parents think they are entitled to free school meals, applications should be made to the County Hall in their county of residence. The Education Welfare Officer will then deal with such requests.
Children who wish to bring a packed lunch may do so and they are seated in the dining hall with the children having school lunches. Drinks must not be brought in cans or glass bottles. At Croft School we try to promote healthy eating and would appreciate it if children were not given fizzy drinks and sweets as part of their lunch. Lunch boxes and flasks should be clearly named. If you wish to change from a school to packed lunch, or vice versa, a half term’s notice is required.
Parents are asked to make their own arrangements for the collection and return of children who will be lunching at home. Children should not return to school from a home lunch before 12:50pm.
During the lunchtime children are supervised in the dining hall, on the playground or on the school field by our Supervisory Assistants. Children are not allowed to leave the premises during the lunch break, unless they have special permission requested by parents, who can then accept responsibility for them.
MORNING DRINKS
A drink of milk or fruit juice is available at morning break at a cost of 18p per day. This should be brought with dinner money on Monday morning. Croft is part of the National Fruit and Vegetable Scheme, which means that children in Reception and Years 1 and 2 are provided with a piece of fruit free of charge at morning break. Older children are welcome to bring in a piece of fruit.
ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL
Holidays taken during term time are actively discouraged as it can severely disrupt your child’s education. Where absence is unavoidable it is necessary to complete a form to request absence from school which must be authorised by the Headteacher. Please do not book a holiday without first obtaining this consent. Holidays of more than 10 days in any school year or during April and May, when assessment tasks are done, will not normally be authorised. The school must now set absence targets which are monitored termly and reviewed by the Education Social Worker.
If you choose to remove your child from school during term-time, it is not considered appropriate for teachers to set ‘holiday work’.
If your child is absent from school due to illness, you should notify school by telephone as soon as possible giving details of the illness and the possible duration of absence.  If children are to be absent from school for reasons other than illness, please notify school beforehand. Children with medical or dental appointments are entitled to an authorised absence in the register if the school or teacher is notified in advance. Children will not be permitted to leave the premises without a parent or agreed adult to collect them.
SECONDARY TRANSFER
Children whose 11th birthday is on or before 31st August will embark on transfer to Secondary education commencing in the September. Transfer for Croft children living in North Yorkshire is normally to Richmond School where places are reserved for them. However children from Low Dinsdale will automatically transfer to the Allertonshire School in Northallerton. Parents may exercise their right of choice in this matter and transfer to other secondary schools if places are available. Children living in Hurworth will normally transfer to the secondary school in Hurworth.
There is excellent liaison between Croft School and all the local secondary schools. To ease transfer the children receive visits in school from secondary school staff and are invited to spend a day in their new school as part of their induction. A letter is sent home to parents in the late Autumn Term asking for their preference in secondary transfer. Copies of school brochures are available for viewing at school.
Parents who are undecided are welcome to discuss secondary transfer with the Headteacher or to make arrangements to visit the appropriate secondary schools.
CHARGING AND REMISSIONS POLICY
In school hours, in any activity involving a journey out of school for a visit away from school premises, no charge is made for transport. No charge is made for equipment, books or materials which the child may use during the course of such a journey or visit. However, voluntary contributions are invited. Advice is given on the cost of such visits or journeys. All contributions are accepted but no child is excluded if he/she does not pay a contribution. However the school reserves the right to cancel any proposed activity for which it feels unable to bear the discrepancy between contribution and actual cost.
On any visit or journey out of school hours which is neither essential to fulfil the statutory duties of school nor essential to fulfil the requirements of the National Curriculum, charges will be made. These will include expenses for travel, books, materials and equipment used, board, lodgings where applicable, non-teaching staff costs and the costs of any staff engaged specifically for the purpose of providing the activity. In the event of such an out of school activity being organised, you will be free to choose if your child should not participate. If you wish for your child to be included in such activity you must be willing to meet such charges as are made. Remissions may be made at the discretion of the Governing Body.
INSURANCE
Parents should note that North Yorkshire County Council does not provide personal accident insurance for children in their schools The Authority only insures against injury caused to children as a result of the negligence of the Authority, its servants or agents and does not insure to pay compensation following any injury suffered by a pupil. School has taken out a policy with the Local Education Authority which offers personal accident insurance for all our children engaged on activities in or out of school. The schedule with limits of liability and range of cover is available for inspection at school.
If parents wish to obtain additional cover for their children, they should make their own arrangements. 
Year 5 regional winners of the national DfES Write Here, Write Now Competition.
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Dear Parents,


Welcome to Croft Church of England Primary School.  We are a Beacon School, have the Quality Mark for Literacy and Numeracy from the Basic Skills Agency and our Artsmark Gold Award has recently been renewed for the third time. In October 2006 Ofsted rated our school as Outstanding in all areas. The SIAS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools) also graded the school as Outstanding in all aspects. In 2008 we were awarded a Activemark. We achieved the new National Healthy School Standard in 2007 and in 2009 we renewed our International School Award. In 2001, 2002, and 2003 we also received School Achievement Awards for Excellence. In 2009 we achieved an Eco Schools Silver Award and we have applied for a BECTA Mark for ICT in 2009. The Local Authority categorise us as a Highly Effective School. We believe that education is a partnership which involves you and the school working and learning together for the benefit of your child and all the children within the school. The teachers are always pleased to make arrangements to see parents at mutually convenient times. The Headteacher or School Secretary will try to deal with enquiries as they arise.


In this Prospectus you will find an introduction to the organisation and work of the school. We hope you will find it useful for your child's stay at Croft School.

ACCOMMODATION

Croft School is situated within its own extensive landscaped grounds and was built in 1974, replacing the previous Victorian school. The accommodation consists of four classrooms, a library, an art/DT room and a hall, which is used for morning assembly, as a dining room at lunchtime, a gymnasium and a general function room. The school has its own kitchen which is used for the preparation and service of meals and a purpose-built out-of-school club room. There are four sets of toilets with facilities for the disabled, and two separate cloakroom areas.

The front entrance to school is ramped. There is a small entrance hall, adult cloakrooms, and an office which doubles as a staffroom. There is also a fully equipped disabled toilet facility/ hygiene room. Outside there are two large grassed playing fields which comprise a football pitch, and during the summer term, cricket pitch, running tracks and rounders' pitches. The large tarmac playground is marked with netball and basketball courts and other games, with an adventure playground for older children and soft play surface with slide and train for younger ones. An environmental area has been developed to enhance our study of local habitats and wildlife and children grow fruit and vegetables in our greenhouse and kitchen garden.
The school car park has a disabled parking bay close to the ramped entrance and there is tactile signage throughout. The school has an accessibility plan which identifies areas for development.

ADMISSIONS POLICY

The normal catchment for the school includes the communities of Croft on Tees, Dalton on Tees, Eryholme and Low Dinsdale, although parents from outside the catchment area may of course exercise their right of choice and send their children, providing there is room.

Croft School is in North Yorkshire Local Education Authority and is adjacent to the border of Darlington LA. Applications for the admission of all children including extra-district children are dealt with by the LA. An approach should first be made to the school to see if there is room, then a preference form should be submitted to the County Education Officer, County Hall, Northallerton. DL7 8AE.

Children whose fifth birthday falls between 1st September and 31st August in the current academic year will be admitted full-time in September. Special arrangements can be put in place for younger children on parental request. All children attend school full-time from January.

From January 2010 we will be providing nursery places in a Foundation Stage Class for 3 and 4 year olds. Initially this will be provided 5 afternoons per week. Parents must complete an application form for a place in nursery; these will be issued by school in the Autumn Term. A preference form for school admission will be sent to you early in the Autumn and will be dealt with by the LA. A place in the nursery does not guarantee a place in school. Induction days for those children unable to attend nursery will be organised later in the summer term. For children with Special Educational Needs or disabilities, a programme of induction will be tailored to suit the needs of each individual child.

Parents wishing their child to attend Croft School should telephone or visit the school and request a copy of the school prospectus and preference form. A suitable appointment can then be made to view the school.

To help new parents, the school has produced a booklet entitled, "Welcome to Croft School." This is available from school on request.
Parents of children under five are asked to register their children with the school as soon as possible so that future school numbers can be calculated at an early date.


ORGANISATION OF TEACHING

Pupils are divided into four classes, basically according to age but with regard to class size and the child's development. They are taught individually, in groups and in a class situation using a range of resources.

We aim to address the individual needs of all children. This is accomplished through a range of teaching methods and classroom organisation. Children may work in ability sets or be taught by other teachers who have specialist expertise. Some team teaching is practised so that the talents of individual teachers can be utilised to the best advantage.

The development of each child's basic skills and progress through the Early Years Foundation Stage and National Curriculum is carefully monitored and recorded and two parent consultation evenings and a full Annual Report give detailed information about your child's achievement.

We greatly welcome parental support in many areas and particularly value parents working in the classroom as teacher support. Please volunteer if you have some time to offer. An "Adult Helpers In School" leaflet is available for further information.

Should a child have a special educational need that requires additional and different educational provision, in consultation with parents, our school provides differentiated work and an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for that child. If further help is required to support a child's learning, our school and parents may request the involvement of the L.A.'s Support and Advisory Service who will advise on the most appropriate course of action. This may include provision of specialist equipment for disabled pupils, speech therapy, assessment by the Educational Psychologist etc. There is a designated member of staff for S.E.N. and a link Governor. The school's Special Educational Needs Policy is reviewed annually and is available in school for inspection. Croft School has an Inclusion Quality Mark from N. Yorks LA.

Pastoral Care is the normal responsibility of the class teacher in consultation with the Headteacher. It is important that teachers are kept fully informed by parents, of all matters which may affect the well-being and progress of the children in their care. As a Church of England School, we benefit from a close working relationship with the rector of the parish.

Homework - children are encouraged to bring resources and information from home to enrich their school lessons. We place great importance upon children reading at home, and therefore every child is provided with a blue homework bag. This usually contains a reading book, reading record and any additional unfinished work for completion. As the children move through the school they will be given supplementary work and are expected to learn tables and spellings. The Homework Policy is available in school for inspection.


MISSION STATEMENT

"Achievement for Everyone"

At Croft C.E. Primary School we aim to realise "Achievement for Everyone" by fostering a caring and co-operative attitude within our inclusive school community. We endeavour to promote a Christian ethos throughout the school. We show a commitment to caring for oneself, for others, across cultures, distances and generations, and for the environment.
Our aims are:-

THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM.

The school curriculum has been designed and developed in accordance with the demands of the National Curriculum. It has the following aims:-

1.  To help pupils develop lively, enquiring and creative minds, the confidence to question and the ability to debate rationally.
2.  To help pupils acquire knowledge, skills and training relevant to adult life and employment in a rapidly changing world.
3.  To help pupils to receive challenging, stimulating, worthwhile and enjoyable experiences in the belief that living fully at every stage of development is a sound preparation for adult life.
4.  To help pupils develop an appreciation of education as a life-long and enjoyable process.
5.  To help pupils to develop logical thought and appropriate communication and information skills in a world of rapidly changing techniques.
6.  To help pupils gain understanding of and respect for religious and moral values and tolerance of other groups, races, religions and ways of life and points of view.
7.  To help pupils develop a concern for the quality of their immediate environment and to understand the world in which they live and work, and the interdependence of individuals, groups and nations.
8.  To help pupils to develop an awareness and appreciation of human achievements and aspirations.
9.  To help pupils, through hard work, commitment and self discipline, to achieve the highest standards of which they are capable.
10.To help pupils in the development of their own individuality and independence, enabling them to discover and recognise their own strengths and limitations and set their goals realistically.


EARLY YEARS EDUCATION

We acknowledge the importance and value of a broad, balanced early years curriculum. Our main aim is to provide a safe, yet stimulating environment in which early years children, both in Nursery and Reception, can further develop their social and learning skills based on the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (EYFS).

Areas We Develop:

We aim to cover the above areas through active learning experiences, with play forming a vital part.
We recognise when children come to school they have varied experiences and are at different stages in their development. Where appropriate children will be given the opportunity to start early on levels of National Curriculum Programmes of Study.