COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS

It is the policy of the School to foster good communication and close co-operation between parents and the school so that children may receive effective support at home and in school during the yearsof secondary education.

If pupils are to gain maximum benefit from their secondary school, full co-operation between staff and parents is essential.  Parents are always welcome to contact the school if they have any queries or concerns and school staff will contact parents when a pupil is causing or experiencing a problem of any kind.

In addition, regular contact between parents and school is maintained in the following ways:

(i)       Reports on progress are issued to parents of all pupils twice each year – in January and June.

(ii)       Parents’ evenings are organised for parents of pupils in all Years.  In addition to these formal evenings, parents are welcome to meet staff at any time of year, if there is an issue which they wish to discuss. Appointments should be made through the School Office.

(iii)      Half-term Progress Reports. Each pupil’s effort in class and at home is examined in the middle of the Autumn and Spring Terms.  Parents will be informed by letter if a child’s effort is worthy of praise or if the school is concerned about a lack of progress.

(iv)      The School’s Newsletter ‘ChatBack’is published twice per term.  This informs parents of important dates, changes to school procedures and aspects ofthe school life which are worthy of note.

(v)     The School Magazine is published each October. This is a more comprehensive record of school life throughout the year.  Parents are encouraged to buy and read it for more details about the school.

(vi)    Annual Report.  This is sent to all parents in the first term of each school year. It details essential information about the previous school year and lists important statistics regarding school performance.

DRUGS POLICY

This policy includes:

(a)     an education programme designed to help pupils understand the harmful effects of illicit drugs, together with sensitively discussing personal mechanisms for user-avoidance;

and

(b)     a clear statement outlining the school’s determination to expel any pupil involved in, or in any way connected with,illicit drug taking or distribution.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

The school fosters strong links with the local community and undertakes a range of activities throughout the year:

·           AnnualCharity Event

·           RemembranceDay Ceremony

·           Musicand Choir Events

·           Visitsto Care Homes

·           JointSchool/Community Projects

·           Annual School Music and Drama Production

Education for Mutual Understanding

The school is involved at present with the ‘Comenius’ initiative funded by The British Council.  This is a project which involves linking the school with other European schools which has included such countries as: Italy, France,Norway, Scotland, Poland, Spain, Denmark, Germanyand Ireland.  It is hoped that this project will enhance the pupils’ learning of European Awareness.