School Road, East Ruston, Norfolk. NR12 9JD
Telephone: 01692 650225
Headteacher: Matthew Gamble
NPQH and MA in Primary Education
2015-2016
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Message from the Headteacher
Welcome to East Ruston Area Infants School and Pre-school. I hope you find this
information interesting and helpful.
East Ruston School is a small rural infant school for children from 2 to 7 years with
a strong ethos on developing happy and independent learners of the future.
The school serves the villages of East Ruston, Dilham, Smallburgh, Honing, Ridlington
and Crostwright. A growing number of families also choose to send their children to
our school from further afield.
East Ruston Pre-school admits children from the age of 2 and runs 5 days a week
currently – 5 mornings and 3 afternoon sessions.
Our school has a healthy, environmentally friendly ethos where children receive an
education that celebrates all the best aspects of childhood: being curious and
creative, learning about nature outdoors, being energetic, enthusiastic and having fun!
We believe that a child’s first experience of school plays an important part in his/her
future educational success. The staff work hard to create a caring, safe and secure
school environment. Children at East Ruston are happy, enjoy school and develop a
love of learning that we hope will extend throughout their lives.
Please follow the link below to view our last Ofsted report:
http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/find-inspectionreport/results/any/any/any/any/any/east%20ruston/any/any/any/any/0/0#search1
We provide an interesting and varied curriculum including using the environmental and
meadow area that adjoins the school. The high adult-child ratio of one adult working
with a group of 6 to 8 children is crucial to our child-centred approach and careful
assessment that supports each child to achieve to their full potential.
We have strong links with other local schools and pre-school settings. The school has
recently federated with Stalham Infant School and we look forward to working
together with them as we focus upon the learning needs for all of the children.
East Ruston School is also very popular with parents, who are very supportive of
school events and concerts, particularly the weekly Celebration Assembly. We would
also look forward to working closely with you as we all strive for the children to be
the best that they can be!
Kind regards
Matthew Gamble
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The Aims of the School
 We aim to nurture happy, curious and independent children who will
develop into the lifelong learners of the future. We value all
children as individuals and recognise each child for what makes
them special.
 We provide a caring, inclusive and interactive learning environment,
where individuals can access the level of support that is right for
them. We believe in structured and consistent boundaries to
promote positive learning behaviours for all in order to achieve high
standards.
School Organisation
Key Stage
Age
Lead Professional
Foundation
Stage
2-4 years
Pre-School
Tracy Aish
4-5 years
Reception (YR)
Lesley Marshall
Key Stage One
5-6 years
Year One (Y1)
6-7 years
Year Two (Y2)
Matthew Gamble and
Sara Brooker
We have 3 classes,
 Badgers Class for Pre-school age children
 Robins Class for Reception age children
 Rabbits Class for children in key stage one.
We are fortunate to have highly qualified and experienced teaching assistants
that support children’s learning in school;
At East Ruston we believe it is important to provide a high adult to ensure each
child receives the necessary adult attention to achieve to the best of their
abilities.
Most children transfer to Stalham Academy (Formerly the Junior School) at the
end of Y2, though parents can make a choice from a range of Primary Schools in
the area
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School Staff
Headteacher
Class Teacher
Class Teacher
Mr Matthew Gamble
Mrs Lesley Marshall
Mrs Sara Brooker
Teaching Assistant, Rabbits Class
Teaching Assistant, Robins Class
Pre-School Leader
Pre-School Assistant
NPQH & MA Primary Education
Cert Ed.
BA. PGCE
Mrs Jo Fisher
Mrs Julie Wright
Mrs Tracy Aish
Mrs Teresa Hubbard
School Secretary
Mrs Kelly Hansford
Clerical Assistant
Mrs Melanie Osborne
& SEND/ Intervention Assistant
ICT Manager
Mr Mark Sutherland
School Cook
Miss Ella Black
School Caretaker
Mrs Ann Downing
Midday Supervisor
Mrs Hayley Pilkington
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Our School Environment
We are fortunate to have bright and spacious learning areas in school. We aim to
maintain lively stimulating displays around the school to showcase the learning in
school.
The school buildings are a combination of old and new buildings.
 The two classrooms are in the traditional part of the school. Each class is
well resourced to make learning stimulating and fun both during whole class
lessons and group activities. Each class has computers for individual use and
an interactive whiteboard.
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The school has a spacious hall, with large climbing equipment for PE lessons.
Lunches, assemblies and school concerts also take place in the hall. The hall
is used by pre-school 4 mornings a week and for 3 afternoons.
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The school also has access to cooking equipment as this is an exciting, fun
way to learn and apply a wide range of skills: reading, maths, science,
healthy living sharing and helping each other.
The school is fortunate to have excellent outside areas to enhance the children’s
playtimes and extend learning activities outside.
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Main playground is our outdoor classroom with climbing apparatus, sand pit,
lawn, bikes, flower and butterfly gardens and our school chickens.
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The small playground at the rear of the school is our vegetable garden
providing produce for our home cooked school meals. This supports many
aspects of outdoor learning and investigative science activities.
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The wooded area adjacent to the school provides a range of natural
habitats, including a pond area, enabling the study of plants and mini-beasts
throughout the seasons. During weekly outdoor sessions children enjoy
camp fires, den building and other activities in the woods.
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The meadow adjoining the school is a wonderful space with wild flowers and
mature trees where we have a new outdoor classroom, planted an arboretum
and have a story circle and giant storyteller’s chair.
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Our School in Pictures
The Magic Meadow
The Outdoor Classroom
Storytellers Chair
The Classrooms
Rabbits Classroom
Our own Woods
Robins Classroom
The Hall
PE lessons
Pre-school
The Playground
The Climbing Frame
The Sandpit
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School lunches
The Bikes
Why East Ruston School is special?
East Ruston Area Infant School is a rural infant school with some very special
features that make it quite different from other schools in the area. We are
pleased to be small and proud of our curriculum that has been developed to
provide the best learning opportunities for young children.
As a small school all the adults know all our children as individuals.
Active learning
We believe children learn most
when they are active and
engrossed in their learning. We
plan for visual, auditory and
kinaesthetic elements to all
lessons to engage all learning
styles. A high level of
involvement and motivation leads
to work of a high standard.
At East Ruston we believe learning should be fun!
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Outdoor Environment
Children visit the woods each week to
learn about the natural environment and
through play learn how to handle risks
safely and to use their own initiative to
co-operate with others and solve
problems. Research has shown that
outdoor learning can develop children’s
self-esteem, social skills and
independence. Activities include den
building, forest trails, natural
sculptures and woodland crafts.
Cookery
Children cook
regularly. Cooking
involves reading,
maths and science in a
practical way. Children
learn about a balanced
diet and healthy
eating. They love
preparing food and
eating it!
weather station
Outdoor Learning
We believe children should
spend time outdoors in the
fresh air. Learning activities
that take place outside are
fun, memorable and a very
effective way of learning
about the world around them.
Please read the Ofsted report and visit our school to find out more.
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East Ruston Pre-school was opened in September 2009 to provide high quality
pre-school education for children from 2 to 5 years old. We offer a small,
friendly, caring, safe and secure setting for children to make their first steps
into education.
Pre-school is open during term time Tuesday from 9.00 to 12.00
and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday all day from 9.00 to 3.00.
Children may attend from the age of 2 until they start school.
Parent funded sessions for children are £7.00 paid in advance each half term.
Sessions for 3 year old children are government funded from the term following
their third birthday. Some 2 year old children are also funded depending upon
your own personal circumstance.
Every day there is a variety of fun, stimulating play activities, both indoors and
outdoors, to encourage development in all 6 areas of learning specified in the
Early Years Foundation Stage Guidance:
 Personal, social and emotional development
 Communication, language and literacy
 Problem solving, reasoning and numeracy
 Physical development
 Knowledge and Understanding of the world
 Creative development
We have a highly qualified, experienced leader, Tracy Aish, and a team of kind,
friendly pre-school assistants, who work alongside the Early Years Coordinator in
school.
Babies, toddlers, dads, mums and carers meet on Tuesday mornings. There are a
range of toys and play activities for the children while the adults have a chance to
chat over a coffee or tea.
The Surestart Toy Library visits once a month.
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Starting School
If you choose to send your child to our school please try to register all necessary
details with the school office as soon as possible. If you are unable to call into
school, you can telephone the information to our secretary, Kelly Hansford or
Melanie Osborne.
You will also need to notify Norfolk Children’s Services of your choice of school. A
booklet will be sent to you explaining what you need to do.
You are very welcome to make a visit with your child to see the school in action.
Please telephone the office to make an appointment.
School starts at 8.55am although doors are open from 8.45am.
School finishes at 3.00pm. Responsibility for children on the premises is only
accepted for 10 minutes either side of school hours.
School clubs may extend the day before or after school
Children in Reception Class have their own entrance directly into the classroom
through the French door under the covered area on the playground. There is also
a toilet and cloakroom area adjoining the class room for the exclusive use of
Robins class children. This makes the Reception class very self-contained and
secure for young children.
Our Admissions Policy
The Governing Body follows the policy of Norfolk Children’s Services for
admitting children to East Ruston Area Infant School.
From September 2014 all children born between 1st September 2009 and 31st
August 2010 may start school full-time no earlier than the beginning of the
autumn term before their fifth birthday.
The first day of the Autumn term 2015 is Thursday 3rd September.
Contacting School
If you have anything you need to discuss with a member of staff at any time,
please contact the school. We have an open door policy and believe good
communication between home and school is crucial. If you are concerned about
anything please speak to us as soon as possible rather than worry at home. We are
keen to work together with families to resolve any issues.
Telephone: 01692 650225
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In an emergency, please contact the school as soon as possible.
If your child is absent due to sickness, please telephone the school on the
first morning of absence.
We are required to give a reason for absence for each child. This is recorded
and sent to Norfolk Children’s Services. We will contact parents or carers on
the first morning of absence if no message is received.
Please ensure the school has an up to date contact telephone number and also
an alternative emergency telephone number in case you are unavailable. A
mobile number is required for the schools text messaging system.
The Governing Body
The school has recently federated with Stalham Infant
Matthew Gamble
Head Teacher East Ruston
Joan Edwards
Tricia Woodhouse
Head Teacher Stalham Infants
LA Chair of Governors
Parent @ Stalham
Parent @ East Ruston
Staff – Stalham
Staff – East Ruston
Siobhan Watts
Angela Dexter
Vacancy
David Amis
Maggie Dixon
Debbie Handford
Vacancy
Diana Halstead
Rev’d Barry Furness
Phil McLeod
Vice Chair of Governors
Sally Barran
Vacancy
Governors are appointed or elected to represent the parents, the local community
and the school workforce. Governors meet each half term and are consulted on all
matters related to the development of the school. We are fortunate to have a
committed and enthusiastic set of governors supporting the school.
If you are interested in becoming a Governor of the school, please contact
Matthew Gamble at school. Your interest is always welcome!
Governors support the headteacher and staff in providing the highest quality
education for the children at our school.
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EYFS
At East Ruston Area Infant School reception age children are taught in one class
known as Robins Class. Mrs Lesley Marshall is the reception class teacher. She is a
very experienced and innovative early year’s teacher, as well as being our
Environmental and Eco-schools expert. Children thrive in her care, developing
confidence and enthusiasm for school. There is also an experienced teaching
assistant in Robin’s class so all the children get plenty of individual attention to
help them make a good start to their education.
Learning in the reception class is a balanced combination of small group adult-led
focused activities and self directed activities based on a wide range of practical
fun experiences. Focused activities include letters and sounds, handwriting,
reading, drama, story telling, maths games and number facts. A lot of self
directed learning is play based and takes place both inside and outside the
classroom. These include science activities around water, mini-beasts, cooking,
gardening and construction and creative activities involving pens, paints, natural
materials music and dance. Children in Robins class often join the older children
for PE, singing, forest schools and assemblies in the afternoons.
Key Stage One
Children in Year 1 and Year 2 taught in Rabbits Class. The core subjects are
taught by Mr Matthew Gamble, the head teacher, for five mornings a week and
Mrs Sara Brooker is the part-time specialist teacher for Music, PE and RE. Other
subjects, such as science, art, geography, history, ICT and design technology are
taught in group activities throughout the week.
The curriculum is planned around whole school topics that are designed to be
interesting and inspiring to children, motivating them to become enthusiastic
learners. We aim to make learning fun, creative and active. Topic work always
includes drama, art, role play and investigations as well as interesting visitors into
school and usually a trip out of school too.
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The school curriculum follows the National Curriculum, the Foundation Stage
Curriculum, the Norfolk Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education.
The Core Subjects
English, Maths, Science
Information & Communication Technology
The Foundation
Geography, History, Art, Music, Physical Education,
Subjects
Design Technology, PSHE and Citizenship
Norfolk Agreed Syllabus Religious Education
Literacy and Phonics teaching
Literacy and phonics are taught everyday following national guidelines. The
children work in ability groups so that activities can be carefully differentiated to
both support and challenge each child in their learning. There is a strong focus on
reading. Children take home colour-coded reading books and school library books
to encourage lots of reading at home. The children learn to write for a wide range
of purposes. Daily structured phonics teaching aids children’s progress in reading
and writing. Spelling and handwriting are practiced daily. Drama and imaginative
play are important for making literacy teaching lively and exciting, helping
children to plan interesting story lines and develop their ideas. Developing
confident speaking and listening skills, as well as a rich vocabulary, are central to
all literacy lessons.
Mathematics
Mathematics is also taught every day following national guidelines. Children learn
initially using everyday objects to count and calculate. They progress to using a
range of strategies to add, subtract, multiply and divide. Children learn to apply
their skills to solve problems using money, measurement and their knowledge of
number facts. Teachers and teaching assistants support children in a range of
differentiated activities that may include games, computers, partner challenges
and guided group work. Children can take home maths games to play with their
families and sometimes have additional maths homework.
Information and Communication Technology
Information and Communication Technology is an integral part of all areas of the
curriculum. Computers are available in both classrooms and the school will be
investing in new technology in the future. There is a wide range of software to
reinforce and extend children’s learning. There is an interactive whiteboard in
each classroom. Digi-blue microscopes and digital cameras are also available and
very popular when creating digital movies and observing mini-beast finds close up.
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Science, Art, History, Geography and Design Technology
Science, art, history, geography and design technology are taught as part of cross
curricular topics that foster curiosity and motivate learning. Children are
encouraged to learn through investigation, discussion and practical activities. Full
use is made of the links with local experts, who are invited into school, and visits
to areas of interest. For example, children learning about food and farming will
grow vegetables, grind wheat and cook bread, visit a local working farm, examine a
range of ancient farm tools and sort foods according to where they come from.
An integrated approach makes learning interesting and meaningful.
Music
Music is a strength of the school as children have specialist music lessons each
week, as well as singing and recorder groups. The school is well resourced with a
wide range of percussion instruments. Children enjoy performing in assemblies and
end of term concerts. Musicians visit school regularly to introduce children to a
range of music.
PE and Sports
PE and Sports are taught weekly in the school hall or on the playground or village
playing field when the weather is fine. Every child receives two hours of quality
PE teaching each week. This is part of our commitment to healthy children and
‘Healthy Schools’. Sports coaches from Norwich City’s Community Sports
Foundation visit each week to provide specialist teaching in a range of sports
including football, rugby, tri-golf, quick cricket and tennis. The PE curriculum also
includes athletics, dance, gymnastics and outdoor and adventurous team building
activities, All children have a course of swimming lessons at Mundesley pool at
least once each year.
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Personal, Social and Health Education and Citizenship
Personal, social and health education and citizenship is an important part of
education preparing children for their adult lives. Children are encouraged to
think for themselves and listen to each other. We have a range of programmes to
enable children to become confident socially, to communicate clearly and work
positively and politely with one another. These include Circle time, R-time,
Philosophy, Environmental learning and Peer Massage.
Sex and Relationship Education
The Governors and staff have agreed a policy on sex and relationships education
which may be discussed with the Headteacher. Its main objective is to support
our children through their physical, emotional and moral development by providing
them with clear information and opportunities to relate to their wider world. No
specific sex education is given in school, but when questions arise either naturally
or from topic work, they are answered simply, honestly, factually and in a manner
appropriate to the age and understanding of the children. The Governing Body
reviews the Sex and Relationship Education Policy regularly.
Religious Education
Religious Education and Collective Worship is planned in accordance with the
Norfolk Agreed Syllabus. A copy of the Syllabus may be viewed at the school on
request. Children are taught about the customs, beliefs and celebrations of
different faiths and religions. Visitors are invited to school from the local
churches and different faiths. Children learn through handling artifacts, listening
to stories and asking questions. Children are encouraged to talk about important
issues in their own lives and the wider world.
Collective Worship & Assemblies
Collective Worship & Assemblies take place every day and all children are
expected to attend. Some assemblies have a wholly Christian theme whilst others
are based on other religions or secular subjects such as community, citizenship
and health and safety. Parents wishing to withdraw their child from Religious
Education are invited to discuss the matter with the Headteacher. We regularly
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welcome visitors from the community to take assembly. These range from
representatives of the local churches to local historians, the police service,
library service and local charities.
Friday Celebration assembly to acknowledge children’s achievements each week is
open to everyone and is popular with children, parents, friends and families. Every
week there is a ‘Super Star Certificate’ awarded to a child in each year group for
exceptional effort or kindness.
Assessment, Reporting and Target Setting
Your child’s progress will be carefully monitored throughout the year.
Teachers assess children’s progress regularly as an integral part of planning the
curriculum to best meet the needs of all children. These on-going assessments
inform the teacher of the next steps in a child’s learning and will often be
discussed with the child and recorded when marking their work.
Annual Assessments are as follows:
Year R
Early Years Foundation Stage Profile
Year 1
School Based Assessment and National Phonics Check
Year 2
National Assessment (SATs)
Teachers assess children against National Curriculum key objectives and expected
levels of achievement for their age. We track children’s progress in a number of
ways in order to monitor progress and ensure each child achieves their full
potential. We also use a number of reading and spelling assessments during the
year and these alongside teacher observations and assessments help us to support
each child to make good progress according to his/her individual needs.
Children are encouraged to review and evaluate their own and each other’s work
and behaviour in a positive and supportive way to encourage high expectations of
each other and develop high self esteem.
Parent, Teacher and Child Conferences
Each term all parents are invited to a meeting with their child’s teacher to look at
school work and discuss their child’s progress and how to support their learning at
home. Children can attend these meetings and enjoy showing their parents their
books and joining in conversations about their learning. At each meeting next
steps are agreed for reading, writing, maths and social and emotional development
and children are very proud when they get ‘smiley faces’ for their achievements.
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SATs Results
Statutory Assessment Tests and Teacher Assessment data shows we achieve
good standards for all our children, including those with Special Educational
Needs.
School SAT’s results 2013
We value the development of the whole child and place great emphasis on teaching
children to be kind, polite, respectful and responsible members of the community.
Children with SEND
Assessment enables us to identify children who have difficulty learning.
Where children need additional support ‘Individual Action Plans (IEP’s)’ are set up
with the class teacher. Parents are invited to discuss these with the class teacher
and each child is consulted on his/her progress.
In some cases, it is necessary to seek advice from the Learning Support Team
which is specially trained to identify specific learning difficulties. Parents are
always informed of decisions and are invited to meet with all those involved in
Special Needs Support. Parents may also request an assessment for their child.
The school can apply for additional funding to the cluster SEND Committee to
provide additional support for children with a Statement of Special Educational
Need. Teaching Assistants give extra support and coaching to children with
Special Educational Needs. Children who are ‘Gifted and Talented’ in any area of
learning may also have an individual curriculum to stretch and challenge their
learning.
Behaviour Policy
We expect a high standard of behaviour at all times. The children are expected to
be polite and have respect for other children and adults.
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We help children to develop self-discipline by creating a supportive and happy
atmosphere with an emphasis on reward for good behaviour.
To encourage this we: teach polite and co-operative ways to work together
 give verbal praise and encouragement readily
 celebrate success with ‘well done!’ stickers
 give the good news immediately to parents, especially when children are
making a particular effort to do well.
 present a ‘Super Star Certificate’ during Celebration Assembly.
Teachers and children agree class and school rules so that everyone knows how to
behave on all occasions.
Sometimes, unwelcome behaviour can be a cry for help. As parents and teachers,
we need to recognise this and respond quickly to it.
Inappropriate behaviour may result in a child missing part of playtime. Children
are helped to discuss their behaviour and identify ways to make better decisions
in the future.
We believe that children perform better, both in their behaviour and their work,
when the school and the home solve work together to resolves any difficulties.
Our school ‘Code of Behavior’ supports good relationships in and around the
school and the playground.
Be kind
Be safe
Be fair
Tell the truth
Be polite
Try your best
Treat others as you want to be treated
Playtimes
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Playtimes are very important times for children when they can relax and be
sociable with their friends.
Playtimes are an opportunity to make personal decisions about how to spend
free time.
At East Ruston we try to offer a variety of activities where children can
play energetically, imaginatively and constructively together.
The children are able to choose from a wide range of activities at playtime
including:
skipping
hop scotch
sand pit
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climbing apparatus
space hoppers bikes and scooters
basketball quiet reading
bubbles
pet rabbits
construction kits
music
football
wood work dressing-up
skittles
hoops
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During lunchtime, teaching assistants take charge both in the dining room
and outside under the supervision of the Headteacher.
At lunchtime, the children go outside, even in cold weather - so please
remember to send a coat and if necessary, a hat, a scarf and gloves.
Children play indoors when it is raining hard. In good weather the children
use the field at lunch times.
There are always two adults supervising children’s play.
Food in School
We are keen to develop healthy eating habits in all our children. Healthy eating is
part of the school curriculum and every year we have a Healthy Eating Week.
School Dinners: The school is very lucky that it is able to employ a school cook who is
able to prepare our own hot delicious lunches in the school kitchen rather than have them
delivered from another school. We serve fresh healthy home cooked meals that do not
contain processed food, but have high levels of fresh fruit and vegetables purchased from
local suppliers. We also use seasonal produce from the school vegetable garden.
The menu is sent out for the beginning of each term and is based on a three-week cycle.
Children can choose the menu meal, a vegetarian option or a jacket potato with cheese or
tuna and baked beans. Children select their choice at the beginning of each week.
From September 2014 all children in Robins and Rabbits class will benefit from the
Governments initiative of providing free school meals for every child in reception, year 1
and year 2.
Termly parents, families, friends are invited to join the children for a school meal.
Shared Community Lunches also happen at special times of the year such as harvest,
Christmas and the summer picnic.
Meals must be ordered each Monday morning, by seeing Mrs Hansford or Mrs Osborne in
the entrance hall.
Packed Lunches: Packed lunches are eaten in the hall together with children
having hot meals. We try to encourage children to eat a healthy well balanced
lunch as this aids their learning at school. Please do not send fizzy drinks,
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chocolate or sweets in packed lunches. We also try to discourage a lot of wasteful
packaging from packed lunches so prefer sandwiches and drinks to be brought in
plastic re-usable containers.
Milk: Break time milk is provided free of charge by the school. Water is always
available from the water fountain in the corridor.
Snack: All children can have a free piece of fresh fruit each morning.
School Uniform
All children wear school uniform at East Ruston as it is practical, comfortable and
smart. We hope, as new parents, you will help us to maintain the high standards of
dress.
Most items of school uniform can be purchased through the school. A clothing list
and order form is available from the school office.
The school uniform is:
 A royal blue polo shirt
 A navy blue sweat shirt or cardigan
 A grey skirt, blue summer dress or grey trousers
 Grey or navy tights
 White ankle / knee socks for girls
 Dark coloured socks for boys
 A pair of sensible shoes.
PE:
 Navy shorts
 White t-shirt
 Plimsolls or trainers
 A track suit top or old school sweat shirt should be available for outside PE
A drawstring bag is needed for keeping the kit safe.
All school clothing must be clearly marked with your child’s name.
Jewellery:
In the interest of safety, jewellery should not be worn.
A wristwatch and small stud earrings may be worn but should be removed for PE.
All jewellery MUST be removed for swimming.
Footwear:
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Children need strong, sensible school shoes. High heels or open-toed sandals are
unsafe in the school playground. Trainers are not suitable footwear for everyday
at school. Please help your child learn to put on and fasten their school shoes on
their own.
All children need to have a pair of wellington boots at school when joining in
outdoor activities and learning within the environmental area.
Educational Visits
Off-site visits are regularly arranged to places of interest in connection with
specific curriculum projects. Visits enhance and enrich the curriculum and help
to make learning memorable and fun. There is usually an educational visit each
term to support the curriculum topic.
The school also invites theatre and puppet groups to visit the school.
Sometimes we visit other schools for concerts and music events.
The outings and visits are arranged to suit the age and interest of each class
and to enhance and enrich children’s’ learning. Parents or carers who would like
to be a helper on a school trip need an enhanced criminal records check.
Charging Policy
 The school’s charging policy is in line with the LEA Policy. Children may be
asked to make a voluntary contribution for school trips.
 Before you are asked to make a voluntary contribution for an activity, a
letter is sent to explain the charge.
 Children may also be asked to contribute to activities outside school hours.
 The East Ruston Poors Trustees very kindly donate an amount each year
towards travel expenses for school trips.
Consent Forms:
 Before the activity takes place, you will be informed by letter and asked to
return an attached consent slip.
 Before any trip takes place, a full risk assessment is undertaken by the trip
leader.
In recent years the children have visited:
 Inspire Science Discovery Centre, as part of Science Week.
 Time and Tide Museum in Great Yarmouth as part of a topic on
Water
 The Dinosaur Park, as part of our Dinosaur Topic.
 Concerts at the Junior School.
 Swimming at Mundesley Primary School or the Victory Pool
 Easton College Farm and local farms
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The water pumping station at East Ruston
BeWilderwood
The Dinosaur Park
Africa Alive
Norwich Cathedral
School Clubs
The school has a varied programme of School Clubs through out the year. Some
clubs run for one hour after school and others take place during lunchtime
break. Clubs have included Multi-skills sports, Country Dancing, Art and Crafts,
Running, Recorder, Outdoors and Adventurous and Eco Club as well as a
Filmclub. Sometimes there is a small charge to cover the cost of materials.
Clubs run by outside agencies may cost more. Many parents choose to join in
the fun with their children and their assistance is greatly appreciated.
Links with other schools
The school is part of the Stalham Cluster of schools which comprises of,
Stalham Academy, Stalham High, Stalham Infants, Hickling Infants, Sutton
Infants, Catfield Primary, Ludham Primary and Happisburgh Primary. All the
Headteachers meet regularly to discuss educational issues of local and national
significance. There are also regular meetings between Special Educational Cocoordinators from all schools to develop provision for children across all
schools.
Transition Arrangements. Most children at East Ruston transfer to Stalham
Junior School at the end of Key Stage 1. Throughout the year the older
children visit Stalham Academy school for a range of fun activities, such as
plays, the art exhibition and sports events, to become familiar with the school.
In the summer term the Academy teachers visit our Y2 children at East
Ruston and in June the children spend a whole day at the Academy to meet
their teachers and the other children in their new classes. All children who
moved on to Stalham Academy School last year have settled very happily and
are full of enthusiasm for their new school.
Parents
Parents are always welcome in school. We have an open door policy. We aim to
work in partnership with parents and carers to enable children to have a
successful, happy education. Open Evenings, class talks and parent, teacher
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and child conferences are held regularly to inform parents about teaching,
learning and the curriculum.
There are regular newsletters with information about events in school.
Celebration Assembly each Friday is open to parents and families and provides
an opportunity to find out about the week’s activities in school. Many parents
help with visits, activity sessions, fund raising and reading practice. If you wish
to volunteer, please talk to your child’s class teacher. Before anyone can help
in school, they need to complete a CRB check. Forms are available from the
school office.
We value parents’ views about our school. A questionnaire is sent out each year
although feedback and suggestions are welcome at any time.
Please do not hesitate to speak to an adult in school immediately if you have any concerns
regarding your child’s happiness in school.
Attendance
Children are expected to attend school everyday, except if they are ill.
 Consistent attendance makes a real difference to a child’s progress at
school. Please ensure all appointments are made out of school hours.
In line with County and National guidance holidays taken during term time will not
be granted except in exceptional circumstances. Parents must speak to the head
teacher to ask permission for holiday leave during term time.
Child Protection and Safeguarding
The policy of this school is to promote the health, safety and welfare of all the
children. The child’s welfare is of paramount importance. Our school maintains an
ethos where our pupils feel secure, are encouraged to talk, are listened to and are
safe. Children at our school will be able to talk freely to any member of staff or
regular visitor to our school if they are worried or concerned about something.
The school is required by law to follow procedures laid down by the Norfolk Area
Child Protection Committee and the Governing Body has accepted this as school
policy. The headteacher is the senior designated child professional and his role is
to initiate the procedures when any child is suspected of being the victim of
abuse. Using the procedures in this way is an obligation placed on the school by
legislation and in no way infers that any parent/carer is being accused of wrong
doing by the school.
Bullying
Bullying is not accepted at our School. Our anti-bullying policy asks for a
partnership approach to ensure that every child feels safe on the way to school,
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in the classroom, on the playground, on the bus and on the way home from school.
If you have any problems, please speak to your child’s teacher or the Headteacher
immediately so that we can deal with any incidents. We aim to work together with
parents to ensure every child is safe and happy in our school.
Equality
At East Ruston we pride ourselves on being an inclusive community. We welcome
everyone and are enthusiastically committed to ensuring that all within our
community can participate fully in the life of the school and benefit as much as is
possible. Throughout our work we show respect and empathy for all and expect
pupils, staff and parents to do so at all times and in every circumstance. We work
proactively to eliminate discrimination and harassment of all kinds, to promote
equality of opportunity for all and to promote good relations throughout our school
community.
Inclusion
We believe that all children have the right to be healthy and safe, to be loved,
valued and respected and to have high aspirations for their future.
We are an inclusive school and endeavour to provide the best education to meet
the needs of each individual child and to support families in supporting their
child’s education. We do not see exclusion as an appropriate solution to children or
families in difficulty. We aim to work with families to enable all children to access
a good education at East Ruston School.
Medicines
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If it is necessary for your child to receive medication during the school day,
you are welcome to visit the school at any time to administer this yourself or
you may complete a permission slip with Mrs Hansford for the school to
administer some medications on your behalf.
Those children who are asthmatic, or for some other medical reason may need
an inhaler, should bring their inhalers to school in a named case or bag. A
Teaching Assistant will supervise every child using an inhaler and record
frequency of use, however it is the responsibility of the parent to check the
expiry date.
If your child has suffered from a bout of Diarrhea and/or vomiting, your child
will require at least 48 hours absence following the last incidence of sickness.
This is to stop the germs from spreading and infecting other children/ adults.
It is in your child’s best interest that you should check for head lice on a
regular basis. The school has guidance on how to treat headlice and parents
will be notified to check more diligently if children are noticed scratching
their hair or if headlice are spotted.
The school has close contacts with the Child Health Service through the
School Doctor and the School Nurse. They provide dental care, sight and
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hearing tests as well as medical checks throughout your child’s first year in
school. Follow up appointments are made as and when required.
If a child is hurt while at school an accident report form is sent home.
Keeping Children Safe in School
Collecting children: All children must be collected from school by an agreed adult.
School must be informed of any alternative arrangements. An adult in school
always supervises children at home-time to ensure they are collected by an
authorised adult.
The use of mobile phones: The use of mobile phones within the school grounds is
not permitted when children are present. Please refrain from using them or please
leave your phone at Reception if you are supporting children within the classroom
areas.
Smoking: The school building and site are NO SMOKING areas. All visitors are
asked to support this policy.
Dogs: For health and safety reasons, Norfolk County Council specifies that: “Dogs
should NOT be brought past the school gate”.
Parking: At present, this remains a difficult problem and we ask you to be aware
of the dangers from parking immediately outside the school. If possible, please
try to park in the Village Hall car park and enjoy the short walk through the
woods into school. Do not park immediately outside the school gates as this can
obstruct visibility as children leave the school.
Security: The school has an access control system activated once school has
started. Please buzz to request entry. The small south gate is kept locked at all
times and is only unlocked to allow the bus children to come and go. The main gate
is locked while the children are outside. There is a bell near the gate to ring for
entry. The gate from the Pre-school playground to the woods and meadow is kept
locked during Pre-school hours.
The school also has an intruder alarm system that is activated over night and in
the holidays. If you see or hear anything suspicious after school or in the holiday
times, please contact the police immediately or ring Mrs Downing on 01692
650814.
Visitors: All visitors should report to the Office and sign the Visitors Book. If
you are in school, you must sign the visitors’ book as you enter school and before
you leave.
Criminal Records Checks: All adults in school; school staff, governors, sports
coaches, regular visitors and parent helpers are required to have an enhanced CRB
check.
Fire: Regular fire practices are held each term to ensure children are familiar
with the safety routine. Fire alarm systems are regularly checked to ensure good
working order.
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Risk Assessments: All areas of the school and activities in school are assessed
for risk by staff in school and all possible measures taken to prevent harm coming
to any children in school. All core risk assessments are reviewed annually.
Health and Safety: The school reviews the Health and Safety Policy annually to
ensure all measures are agreed, in place and acted upon to ensure children’s
safety in school.
The school places the utmost importance on children’s safety in school and
appreciates the support of parents, staff, governors and children to ensure
everyone feels safe in school.
Home School Agreement
Our Child, Home and School Agreement is reviewed regularly. All children,
teachers, parents and governors are consulted. Please read this with your child. It
will be discussed in school and you will be asked to sign the agreement at a Parent,
Teacher and Child Conference Meeting.
Children will try to:
 Be sensible and behave well.
 Be kind and helpful.
 Speak and listen politely.
 To do their best.
 Tell an adult in school if they are worried.
 Use their brain to think and to concentrate.
 To respect other people’s feelings, beliefs and belongings.
 To be tidy and take care of our school.
 Make thoughtful, healthy decisions.
Adults in school will try to:
 Make school a safe, fun and stimulating place to be.
 Make sure everyone behaves well.
 Make learning interesting.
 Be kind and helpful.
 Speak and listen politely.
 Give clear instructions so children understand.
 Teach each child to enable them to make good progress.
 Talk to parents and carers about their child.
 Inform families about events in school.
Parents and carers will try to:
 Bring children to school and pick them up on time.
 Make sure children are healthy, rested and equipped to learn.
 Support children in their learning at home.
 Speak and listen politely.
 Be kind and helpful.
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Talk to adults in school about their child.
Support their child to have a good attendance record
Inform school of the reason for any absence.
Parents support for children’s learning at home makes an enormous difference to
their progress at school. We do not ask for formal homework but provide a
reading book and a homework folder of word, phonics and number cards that we
encourage parent to use with their children for at least 15 minutes every day.
Daily practice makes learning easy and shows your child that you value the effort
they make in their learning.
Procedure for Complaints
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If you are unhappy about any aspect of your child’s education or experiences
in school, you should make an appointment to see your child’s class teacher.
We hope that this will resolve the matter.
If you are still unhappy, you should make an appointment to see the
Headteacher.
If you are still unhappy, you should inform the Headteacher that you wish to
make a formal complaint. The Headteacher will inform you of the procedure
and the person and address to which you should write.
Education Reform Act 1988
Complaints Procedures
Closures
School closures can occur in the event of extreme weather conditions or heating
failure. Please tune to Radio Norfolk or Radio Broadland or log on to
www.norfolk.gov.uk during severe weather when all school closures will be
announced.
All information was correct at the time of publication.
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