‘The behaviour of pupils is outstanding. Pupils have a highly positive attitude toward learning,
they say that teachers make learning so much fun’ - Ofsted July 2014
Victoria Academy
Prospectus
WHAT OFSTED SAID ABOUT OUR SCHOOL:
‘The behaviour of pupils is outstanding. Pupils have a highly positive attitude toward learning,
they say that teachers make learning so much fun.’
‘Standards are well above National Average in English, Maths and Science.’
‘Pupils make good progress as they move through school and achieve well.’
‘Pupils’ personal development and well-being, including their spiritual,
moral, social and cultural development, are outstanding.’
‘ Learning is given real purpose in the school, enabling pupils to follow their own ideas as well as working successfully with others.
Pupils clearly enjoy this way of working and this is reflected in above average attendance,
exemplary behaviour and excellent relationships.’
‘ The outstanding display work across the school motivates the pupils to succeed and achieve.’
‘ A wealth of sporting activities are very well attended after school and their excellence is recognized
in the Sportsmark Gold Award.’
‘ Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school and make a good contribution to their child’s learning.’ ‘There is a family
atmosphere in the school; an ethos which is highly valued by the parents.’
‘There is a shared vision amongst staff for the school’s development and a very strong drive for improvement.’
WHAT OUR PARENTS SAY:
‘We moved our child to Victoria Academy from another school, we are so pleased we did. Our son is so happy here, he has lots of great
opportunities and his standard of work is excellent.’ - Parent Yr4 child.
‘My daughter really enjoys her school as it is a happy and enjoyable place to learn - if she’s happy, I’m happy. This is an open school
to parents. I feel I can go into school anytime to discuss any issues.’ - Parent Yr6 child.
Victoria Academy
Devonshire Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5NE
Telephone 01229 870812
Fax 01229 870104
E-mail [email protected]
WHAT OUR PUPILS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT OUR SCHOOL:
‘ Come to Victoria it’s the best school in the world.’ - Year 3 Pupil
‘ Our lessons are always interesting and fun.’ - Year 5 Pupil
‘ You learn in every lesson.’ - Year 3 Pupil
‘ I don’t want to leave.’ - Year 6 Pupil
‘ This school is great, I love it!’ - Year 6 Pupil
‘ It lets us children have a choice about what we want for our school.’ - Year 4 Pupil
‘ We love the challenges, they make us learn without knowing it.’ - Year 5 Pupil
‘ You get to show your work and you are proud to be on the good work bench.’ - Year 4 Pupil
‘Teachers have high expectations of us. They think about the valuable lessons which can help us for the future’ - Year 6 Pupil
Headteacher:
Deputy Headteacher:
Assistant Headteacher:
Chairman of Governors:
Ms Caroline S. Vernon
Mrs W. Gillett
Mr P. Davison
Mr G. Davies
Teaching Staff
YEAR 3 - Mrs. J. Stanway and Mr. P. Davison.
YEAR 4 - Mrs. J. Birkett and Mrs L. Goulding.
YEAR 5 - Mrs. G. Simpson and Mrs. R. Poyntz.
YEAR 6 - Mrs W. Gillett, Mrs. K. Ward and Mrs Chatfield.
Specialist Teacher (Art and Music) Mrs. C. Heap.
French Teachers: Mrs. A. Kenny and Mrs. A. Barrow.
P.E. Staff: Mr. A. McDougall and Mr. C. Rutherford.
Childrens Councellor: Mrs. M Griffiths.
Chairman of Governors: Mr. G. Davies
Clerk to Governors: Mrs. C. Fitzgerald
Office Manager: Mrs. C. Fitzgerald
Office Assistant: Mrs. J. Clarke
Office Hours: 8.30am - 3.30pm each week day
Site Manager: Mrs J. Sanderson
Cook In Charge: Mrs. J. Price
Cooks: Mrs. A. Ross, Mrs. J. Sanderson and Mrs. S. Martin
Teaching Assistants
Mrs. J. Tindale, Mrs. A. Barrow, Mrs. D. Jewell, Mrs. Lowes,
Mrs. S. Hitchen, Mrs. L. Travis, Miss H. Price, Mr. C. Rutherford.
Governors
Mrs. A. Turner, Ms. S. Halligan, Mr. P. Davison, Mr. G. Davies,
Mrs. J. Ridyard, Mr. K. Lanton, Mrs. S. Knagg, Mr. S. Olliver,
Mrs. J. Postlethwaite.
Midday Supervisors: Mrs. N. Shaw, Mrs J. Fitzsimmons,
Mrs J. Postlethwaite and Mrs D. Wilson.
Cleaners: Mrs. D. Wilson, Mrs J. Palmer, Mrs J. MacMillan
School Hours: 8.55am - 12.15pm - 1.15pm - 3.30pm
Number of children on Roll: 220
On 1st September 2015 our school opened as Victoria Academy as part of the Inspired Learning Multi Academy Trust. The
trust embodies a family of academies - Victoria Academy, Yarlside Academy and Parkside GGI Academy, all Good or
Outstanding schools who made the decision to form a multi-academy trust, thereby increasing the schools’ control of their
educational offer and enhancing the services they can provide for their pupils.
Inspired Learning Multi Academy Trust aims to ensure high aspiration, outstanding achievement and life long learning skills for all
pupils within its schools.
We will achieve this through:
•
Innovative leadership - which is forward thinking, ensures clear purpose and direction and effectively brings about
change through drive, determination and courage
•
Excellence in partnership - which ensures our children, staff and Academy communities benefit from strengths and
excellence within each partnership school
•
Consistently effective, high quality teaching - which promotes inquisitive, challenging and progressive learning, ensuring
high standards and excellent educational outcomes for all learners
•
Inclusive learning - which includes and develops each individual pupil and provides equal opportunities for all
•
Stimulating, well designed and imaginative curricula - which is rooted in rigorous teaching of basic skills whilst
ambitiously widening children’s horizons and experiences
•
Exciting, engaging and active learning environments - which inspire curiosity, persistence, creativity and collaboration
within and beyond the classroom
•
Collaborative community links - which ensure participation, liaison and resource sharing and maximise links with other
sectors E.g. local business to develop the skills and experiences our children will need for economic stability into adulthood.
‘ The best teachers ever.’ - Year 4 Pupil
‘ I like the teachers ‘cos they are not boring, they make you laugh and do fun things.’ - Year 5 Pupil
Dear Parents,
I am pleased to write these words of welcome on behalf of the children, staff and governors
of Victoria Academy.
This Prospectus has been designed to help you find out about the school, its staff, pupils
and governors.
I do hope you will find it informative and that it gives you an insight into the life of
school. You are very welcome to visit us, by appointment, to ask further questions and
talk to the staff. We also hold an open day annually, and organise many events for
visitors to share our school environment.
Victoria Academy is a happy school where high standards of achievement and behaviour
are expected. We offer children a safe and caring environment in which they are
encouraged to work hard and enjoy learning. Our aim is to give your child high quality
education within a learning community where aspirationand collaboration are
encouraged so that every child can reach their potential.
Above all, we aim for our school to be a place in which every child is valued, happy, secure
and encouraged to achieve their very best.
Yours sincerely,
Caroline S. Vernon (Headteacher)
VICTORIA ACADEMY MISSION STATEMENT & AIMS
We will inspire our pupils to enrich both their own lives and the lives of others. We
will nurture a love of learning; the motivation to succeed; and ensure high academic
standards, enabling all students to fulfil their limitless potential through
perseverance and effort
Our aim is
•
To enable our children to build on their foundation of knowledge, find
their talents and develop the learning skills and dispositions to reach
their potential
•
To provide learning opportunities which stimulate enquiry, reflection and
challenge, equip children with resilience and perseverance and ensure
excellent learning outcomes
•
To give learning purpose, by ensuring its relevance for our children and
by creating opportunities for them to learn in our wider community
•
To create a Learning Community which is safe, increases self esteem and
encourages risk
•
To promote British and community values and attitudes of care,
tolerance, trust and respect for others, both as people and as learners,
finding enrichment in difference
We will work hard to meet these aims so that whatever their starting point when
they arrive, our children will leave with the world at their feet - equipped and ready
for continued learning and successful futures.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT OUR SCHOOL
Victoria Academy is a vibrant, caring and stimulating place where everyone is valued
and each individual is an important member of our whole community.
An extensive range of experiences and activities ensures that all pupils are challenged
and have the opportunities to achieve and celebrate success.
A well established culture of academic, social and emotional support means the needs of
each child are addressed and met, so that all children can experience success.
High expectations, coupled with a great sense of fun create a dynamic working
environment which fosters the skills of life long learning and high standards of
attainment.
ADMISSIONS
The admission number is 62 per year group. Children are admitted to the school in the
September following their seventh birthday. Although most of the children are admitted
from Victoria Infant School, some are admitted from other Infant Schools within the
Barrow area. We work closely with the Headteachers and members of staff from each of
these schools to make the transition to Junior School as smooth as possible for our children.
SCHOOL DAY
8.40 a.m.
8.55 a.m.
10.25 a.m. - 10.40a.m.
12.15 p.m. - 1.15p.m.
2.15 p.m. - 2.30p.m.
3.30 p.m.
Children begin to arrive at school
School day begins (pupils are supervised
from 8.40 a.m. until 3.30 p.m.)
Playtime
Lunchtime
Playtime
School day ends.
BREAKFAST CLUB
We are pleased to offer pupils a before school Breakfast Club and After Hours
School Club.
Our Breakfast Club is open between 7.45am - 8.45am. During this time children are
offered a range of breakfast options including cereal, toast and fruit juices. The children
are supervised by members of our staff team and enjoy a range of activities in a quiet
and calm setting. Activities are structured to engage the children without putting any
learning demands on them; arts and crafts projects and role play are very popular. At
8.45 the children go out into the playground to line up with their classes ready for the
start of the school day.
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB
The After School Club is open between 3.30pm - 5.30pm and is led by experienced
school staff. During this time children are given a wide range of activities which enable
them to socialise with other children, relax and enjoy playing. During the sessions,
children have a cooked meal and a drink; some of them like to bring snacks from home
too. Often the children use this time to do homework with support from school staff
and sometimes they participate in other school clubs before going to After School
Club. Activities vary during the length of the session and children are encouraged to
select what they would like to do; playing outside, art, watching dvds, playing games,
using the computers etc. We aim for the children to feel this is a fun and relaxing club
rather than an extension of a more formal class based learning setting.
NB Both clubs require advanced booking to ensure appropriate staff/pupil ratios are
always met.
SCHOOL ORGANISATION
Children are in mixed ability classes, consisting of the same age group. Our
maximum class size is 31, but our teaching groups are much smaller.
Each year group is divided into at least three ability groups for Numeracy and
Literacy in order to give better support for children to develop skills in these
subjects. It is quite likely that children requiring specific support in Literacy and
Numeracy will have lessons in a maximum class size of 10.
Within each ability set, lessons are differentiated to ensure that pupils are
individually extended or supported as necessary and specialist adults provide 1:1 or
small group teaching.
SCHOOL COMMUNITY
At Victoria Academy we have a happy, caring and exciting environment. We provide an ethos that will help our children grow into caring
and responsible members of the community - a credit to our school, their families and themselves.
Our School Parliament ensures that all of our children have a voice in school and the children's opinions are a valued part of our school
development process. Our Peer Mentoring system trains specific pupils to support children at playtimes. Games are taught to encourage
social skills and Play Leaders ensure all children have friends to play with.
We are eager to encourage the wider community to take part in school life. Ambassadors from BAE Systems, Kimberly Clark and many
other local businesses work in school to provide professional skills. These helpers provide additional support for the children’s learning and
share their knowledge and skill. Through this interaction, our helpers become involved in new experiences and learn from and with pupils
in new subject areas. We have links with several local churches to enable pupils to experience Christian ceremonies within a church setting.
We are also keen for the children to provide performances for the local community and in church, as an extension to their learning, and our
choir currently makes visits to various local establishments.
Each year we hold an Open Day to invite the wider community in to share our school environment. Members of the community who see
our children during visits out of school often comment on their politeness and good behaviour. We respect our children and encourage
them to respect others. We have an annual Summer Fayre and Christmas Fayres too.
Most recently, we have provided very well received training on the school site, for members of our local community. Participants have
extended their skills and qualifications in Literacy , Numeracy and ICT.
‘All the teachers are like really kind and if you have a problem they help you.’ - Year 3 Pupil
CURRICULUM
Our curriculum, graded Outstanding by Ofsted, is very carefully planned to meet the needs of all of our pupils. A large focus is obviously
placed upon developing a high standard of reading, writing and numeracy skills together with ICT and creative ability. All of our children
access specialist PE coaching and receive swimming tuition plus French lessons. Our broad and rich curriculum is underpinned by the
teaching of lifelong learning skills to enable our children to be successful independent learners who are prepared well for secondary
education and beyond. This year we are employing a Chinese Language Assistant to teach Mandarin.
The school curriculum includes the following national curriculum subjects - English, Mathematics, Science, French, Geography, History,
Art & Design, Design and Technology, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Music and Physical Education. Other
statutory requirements are Religious Education and collective worship.
We promote the children's spiritual, moral, social, cultural, mental and physical development and prepare them for the opportunities,
responsibilities and experiences of adult life. English and Mathematics are a priority but at the same time we aim to provide rich and varied
activities and experiences within the whole of the curriculum, all taught in ways to motivate our learners.
SPECIALIST TRAINING AND FACILITIES
Within our staff we are able to provide specialist teaching within PE, ICT, Art, Music and Languages. We have links with Specialist
Schools and Agencies to provide coaching & facilities for many other curriculum areas. Our links with local businesses support us in
preparing pupils with the skills and aspiration to be successful lifelong learners and eventually progress into great careers.
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
We provide French tuition as an element of our curriculum for all year groups. The lessons are taught by a native French speaking
teacher and a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, specialist trained to deliver the French Curriculum and prepare our children for
studying a second language at Secondary School. The lessons are very popular and are an integral part of our curriculum.
‘We get to learn different languages.’ - Yasmin, Year 4 Pupil
Percentage of our children making the progress expected,
by the Government, from the end of Infant School to the end of Junior School.
Reading
97% (National Average 88%)
43% Exceeded
Writing
98% (National Average 91%)
47% Exceeded
Maths
97% (National Average 88%)
43% Exceeded
More Able Pupils
Most children are expected to attain Level 4 by the end of Yr6, some children are able to achieve Level 5.
Our Level 5 Results
2013
2014
2015
Reading
39%
64%
66%
Writing
35%
26%
45%
Maths
42%
42%
66%
Our attainment figures are consistently higher than National Attainment. We perform in the top
25% of schools in England.
STANDARD ASSESSMENT TESTS (SATs)
The Standard Assessment Tests for children in Year 6 take place between Spring half term and Summer half term and require all the
children in this age group to be present at school during the tests. Please avoid taking your child out of school during this period.
TEACHING LEARNERS TO LEARN in the Furness Community
Victoria Academy has, for many years, focused its development work on teaching learners the skills of learning, within a vibrant and
collaborative learning community. We believe that we can raise attainment for all children by raising their aspiration and ‘hooking’
them as learners in purposeful learning experiences. ‘A comprehensive programme to develop critical and creative thinking skills
prepares students extremely well for later life. Pupils are interested in their work and want to do well because the well planned and
outstanding curriculum is enriched by additional activities that extend pupils’ experience and skills.’ Ofsted 2008 ‘Pupils thoroughly
enjoy school, are immensely proud of their achievements, and their behaviour is outstanding... partnerships to support learning and
well-being are outstanding... Pupils’ outstanding contribution to the school and wider community is exemplified by the mature and
confident way they fulfil leadership duties... Pupils have a strong voice in decisions that effect them, they use research skills to gain
the views of fellow pupils...’ Ofsted 2010. ‘The Pupil Parliament makes sure that pupils opinions make a difference. Pupils are very
proud that they have their say and are listened to at Victoria Academy...’ Ofsted 2014.
The school has a strong reputation within the county and nationally, for its innovative approach to teaching and learning, leading
partnerships of schools in National College of School Leaders projects, Curriculum Development work with Prince’s Trust, and
often leading Continuing Professional Development training in skills based curriculum and research based approaches. At Victoria
Academy, time is spent in the creation of a classroom community where all members work and learn together within boundaries and
following guidelines agreed by their group. Within this setting, learning skills are taught and used to support learning, encourage
positive communication and ensure understanding and a feeling of security amongst learners.
Learning is given real purpose as children use their skills and their team’s abilities to develop knowledge and problem solve. Children
learn to work in varied teams recognising their own and each other’s preferred learning styles and natural roles. The lifelong learning
skills which are explicitly taught and assessed have been modified to reflect the priority skills identified by local employers.
Evaluation of this approach, by Lancaster University, shows the impact this ‘Learning to Learn’ approach has had on the confidence
and attainment of students. In Victoria Academy this approach to learning has meant all children can succeed. Victoria Academy is
currently leading projects which involve local employers working with teachers to provide learning opportunities which start children
thinking about how their learning links to their futures and gives them the skills and aspiration to work towards exciting careers.
Recent school projects so impressed MP John Woodcock that he commissioned our staff team to lead the Furness Future Leaders
Academy - a three week Summer School for 100 pupils from 23 schools.
UNIFORM
The compulsory school uniform is as follows:Girls:
Turquoise school sweatshirt with school logo or
turquoise school cardigan with school logo
School kilt or charcoal grey trousers
White blouse or white polo shirt
White or grey tights / white or grey socks
Black shoes - not trainers
Summer Uniform:
Blue and white striped summer dress and school cardigan
with school logo
Boys:
Turquoise school sweatshirts with school logo
Charcoal grey trousers
White shirt or white polo shirt
Black shoes - not trainers
Additional items are also included in our uniform range, but these items are
optional; fleece jackets, baseball caps and school bags.
The official supplier of school uniform is Identity on Cavendish Street,
Barrow-in-Furness.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
For safety and hygiene reasons it is essential that children bring suitable
attire for P. E. and Games lessons.
PE Kit:
Blue school PE top with school logo or plain white t shirt
Black shorts with school logo or plain black shorts
Indoor plimsoles
Outdoor kit
Blue school tracksuit top or plain blue hoody
Black school jogging pants with school logo or
plain black jogging pants
Outdoor trainers
In cold weather children will be allowed to wear a dark tracksuit or school outdoor
PE kit.
To protect the safety of children, no pupil is allowed to wear jewellery of any kind
during P. E. activities. Pupils must remove studs during P. E. lessons.
If you intend to have your child's ears pierced it is suggested that you do this at the
start of the summer holidays.
SPORT
Standards in school sport have been consistently excellent over many years. Victoria
Academy has always been renowned for its strong sports teams. All pupils are given the
opportunity to compete in inter-school events, here are some of our achievements.
Yr 3&4
Year 6
Year 5&6
Tri Golf County Champions
3 Girls selected for Barrow Schools Football Team
Mixed Netball Champions at St Mary’s Gala
Mixed Football Team Runners-up in Barrow & District Tournament
Barrow & District Athletics - 4 Gold Medals & 3 Bronze Medals
Barrow and District Area Cross Country Championship
1 Silver Medal & 1 Bronze Medal
FA Cluster Quicksticks Group Winners
‘ I like swimming lessons ‘cos if you can’t swim they teach you.’ - Ben, Year 4
EXTRA CURRICULAR CLUBS
These clubs have been recognised as a great strength by several Ofsted teams. We
aim to encourage all our children to attend at least one of them. Over the past few
years over 90% of our children have taken advantage of the clubs on offer. These
have included:
• Games Club • Gymnastics Club • Science Club • Dance Club
• Engineering Club • Gardening Club • Art Club • Cookery Club
• Drama Club • School Band • Table Tennis Club • Karate Club
• Christian Club • Football Club • Book Club • Choir
MUSIC
The high standard of music teaching is a real feature of our school. A specialist
music teacher delivers the curriculum in all year groups, with every child learning to
play at least one instrument. We work with specialists to bring in various visiting
musicians to provide multicultural music experiences, and private tuition is offered
in brass, wind and string instruments. Annually our choir perform at the
Manchester Evening News Arena.
‘ I like the music lessons because you get to learn more music so you can be in a band
when you are older.’ - Ben, Year 4
SCHOOL PRODUCTIONS
Our Christmas Production is always very popular and demonstrates a very high
standard of drama and dance ability by children from each of our year groups. We
feel that providing children with the opportunity to perform for a wide range of
audiences enhances both their confidence and self esteem.
Additionally, our choir performs at many school functions.
CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENT
We believe that children should be aware of their achievements. Their self-esteem
and confidence should be high and personal success should be celebrated. We
award stickers for good work, personal progress or exemplary behaviour. Each week
in "Achievement Assembly" children who have produced work of a high standard
are given the opportunity to show their work to the school and applauded.
Children who have tried particularly hard or who have demonstrated excellent
attitudes to school life are presented with a "Headteacher's Award" and their
names and achievements are recorded in our "Gold Book."
‘ Achievement Assembly - try your best, the certificates are brill.’ - Year 6 Pupil
SCHOOL PARLIAMENT
Our School Parliament involves all children. The Parliament meets at least half
termly to provide a voice for the children in school and also to carry out
development work. Throughout the year our Parliament Reps attend School
Council Forums where they receive training and further develop their own
management skills alongside council members from other schools.
PEER SUPPORTERS
Each year a group of children are selected via an interview process to train as Peer
Supporters. Their role is to ensure all children are happy at playtimes by
encouraging friendships, acting as mediators and generally being a caring point
of contact.
PLAY LEADERS
Our play monitors have been through a course of training to supervise and manage
a range of games at playtimes. They encourage children to join in and teach the
rules and social skills required.
RESEARCH WORK
In recent years, groups of our pupils have worked with Researchers from Lancaster
University learning how to carry out formal research. They have been
commissioned by: the Director of Curriculum for QCA, to carry out research to
inform the new Primary Curriculum for England; and Furness Learning
Innovation Programme to research transition to Secondary School. This project has
informed education planning for Barrow Schools.
GIFTED AND TALENTED PUPILS
Opportunities are sought to extend the learning and experience of pupils with
specific gifts or talents. For example skilled dancers have been taught by specialised
teachers at Dowdales School, talented athletes have benefited from specific
coaching, skilled scientists enjoy workshops with local businesses and gifted
mathematicians have weekly lessons with similar pupils from other schools via
video conferencing.
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
All children have individual needs and are equally valued. The school aims to give
each child a broad and balanced curriculum that is relevant to their needs. When it
is judged appropriate some children will be given additional support, this could be
for help in curricular areas or it could be for social or medical needs. Most help is
given in class, though there is regular timetabling for setting the children in
English and Mathematics. High achieving children are given extension work to
further develop their skills and those who require additional help to develop basic
skills benefit from working with a teacher in a small group.
If a child's name is placed on the school register for special educational needs,
parents are invited to school to discuss their child's progress against targets set.
Advice is sought from outside agencies such as the Educational Psychologist and
Specialised Teaching teams. In some instances support is given by special support
staff from outside school. Parents are informed and consulted on an ongoing basis
to ensure their understanding and agreement of the support to be given.
HOMEWORK
Children in all year groups are given a variety of activities to do at home that will
reinforce their learning. Sometimes the homework will be reading, spelling or
times tables, at other times it may be work to complete or research. Children are
encouraged to take books home to share with their family, or to enjoy for
themselves. It is very important that any work undertaken at home is completed in
a relaxed atmosphere.
DISCIPLINE
If we are particularly concerned about a child's behaviour we will invite parents into
school to discuss the problem. It is essential that school and home co-operate in the
best interests of the children. On some occasions children are given work to
complete at home. On rare occasions children are kept at school for a time to
complete work. Our Behaviour Policy, written by a cross section of our school
community, clearly defines our reward and sanctions systems. A copy of this policy is
available from our school office.
SCHOOL POLICY ON SEX EDUCATION
There is no structured programme of Sex Education in school. Should it be
decided that Sex Education be included in the curriculum as part of an overall
health and education programme, then parents would be informed and their views
welcomed. Parents have a right to withdraw children from all or part of any sex
education except that which is taught as part of the National Curriculum.
MULTI CULTURAL CURRICULUM
Ofsted recently praised school for its multi cultural provision. We study various
world locations and make multi cultural education the focus of much of our music
and art work. Our school works closely with Furness Multicultural Group to
provide a ‘real’ and exciting multicultural education. We are linked with a school
and a Women’s Business Centre in Rwanda and have recently gained the
International Schools Award.
CREATIVE ARTS WEEK
A broad and rich curriculum is essential to provide all pupils with the opportunity
for success. Each year we hold a Creative Arts Week during which the whole
school work on a common theme through varied art mediums and learn from
visiting professional artists. In previous years the children have worked with poets,
song writers, dancers, musicians, mask makers, painters and sculptors. They have
particularly enjoyed learning circus skills and performing with a professional rock
band. The week culminates in a performance for parents.
VISITS & VISITORS
We provide additional opportunities and experiences to enhance learning in
national curriculum subjects such as visiting theatre groups, visits to museums,
Grizedale Forest, and the Dock Museum. There have been field studies in the
Ambleside area and visits to Hadrian's Wall, Tullie House Museum in Carlisle and
Beamish, (Durham). A residential week for Yr5 pupils focuses on outdoor pursuits
and teamwork and enhances social skills and the independence of our children. Our
Yr6 pupils enjoy a city residential in London, seeing lots of famous sites.
SCHOOL MEALS
The school makes all of its own meals and recently represented the Northwest
region as an example of best practice at a National Food Trust Conference. We
ensure that high quality produce is used to provide a balanced, healthy and
enjoyable menu and recognise how important it is that children enjoy a substantial
meal in the middle of the day. At present the price of £2.10 per meal represents
excellent value.
We would be grateful if you could send the correct money, £10.50 on Monday
mornings in a sealed envelope marked with the child's name. Please send each
child with his/her own money and not with an older brother or sister as this helps
simplify accounting. Meals can be paid for in advance by cash or cheque for
periods of one month, half a term etc. (Cheques to be made payable to Victoria
Academy.)
As an alternative, children may opt for packed lunches. These should be in a
convenient box or bag, clearly marked with the child's name. Sweets, chocolate
etc., are not to be included. Drinks should be in plastic containers not glass bottles
or cans and a straw or cup provided.
Research shows that children don't learn very effectively if they are dehydrated so
we do encourage children to bring water into school for use during lesson time,
these must be in a sports cap container to avoid spillage on desks. Children are
welcome to bring a piece of fruit for break times but no other food or sweets
should be brought into school. At the children’s request, we now have a Healthy
Eating Tuck Shop.
Recently when assessed for Healthy Schools status we were instantly accredited
with no improvements required. We were also selected as one of only four schools
to pilot an electronic ordering system which will allow parents and school to
analyse the nutritional content of the children’s meal choices.
‘ The food is very tasty.’ - Year 3 Pupil
‘ School dinners are really healthy and the token system is fair and we have seconds.’ Mark, Year 4
GLOBAL EDUCATION
Sustainability is very important to our school. Our children are taught to recycle,
save energy, grow produce etc. We now have both Bronze and Silver Eco Awards.
OPEN DAY
Each year school hosts an Open Day. We are very proud of our school and our
pupils and are keen for visitors to come and see for themselves the high quality
learning environments and high standards the children attain. This is a very happy
school, as one visitor stated ‘Who needs sunshine? The warmth and glow radiates
from within!’
REPORTING TO PARENTS
The opportunity will be given by the class teachers for parents to visit school twice
a year in order to discuss their child's work. Written reports are sent home in the
Summer Term. Each individual pupil’s progress is tracked carefully (to ensure
support or challenge is effective for all). This information feeds directly into reports
to parents.
Parents are encouraged to speak regularly with class teachers regarding their child’s
progress or make an appointment to meet with the Head Teacher. We believe
regular communication to be very important in support of a child’s education.
School records are available to be seen by parents.
PARENTS VISITS TO SCHOOL
These can be arranged when requested. An appointment is advisable because of
the teaching commitments of the staff. Important and urgent matters will of
course be dealt with immediately. If you are concerned about some aspect of your
child's school life there are a number of people who can be contacted in addition to
the class teacher. Mr. Davison is responsible for the pastoral care of the boys and
Ms.Vernon has a similar responsibility for the girls.
PARENT FORUM
A Parent Forum has been set up to work with the School Leadership Team, this
gives parents a strong voice in school development priorities and strengthens the
partnership between parents and school staff.
TRANSFER TO SECONDARY SCHOOL
Although school lies in the Furness Academy North Site catchment area and some
of our children transfer there at 11, our pupils do, in fact, transfer to the full range
of Secondary Schools in Barrow, Ulverston and Dalton. In their final year with us,
forms are sent to parents asking their preference with regard to the choice of
Secondary School. At 16+ children many move to Barrow Sixth Form College or
Furness College.
FORMAL COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE
If you become concerned in any way about your child's education, it is important to
tell us about this. As a first step you should discuss your concerns with your child's
teacher. If you are still concerned after talking with the teacher you should arrange
to meet Ms. Vernon. Obviously, as a staff we will do all we can to resolve your
concerns and to ensure you are happy with the education your child is receiving.
There may be some occasions when parents wish to complain about matters
relating to the curriculum and collective worship which are the responsibility of the
Governing Body and/the Inspired Learning Multi Academy Trust. Special formal
arrangements exist for dealing with complaints of this kind. Advice on how to
pursue a formal complaint is also available from Mr G Davies, Chairman, Inspired
Learning Multi Academy Trust, c/o Victoria Academy, Devonshire Road,
Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 5NE. Tel: 01229 870812
SCHOOL RULES & PROCEDURES
We do not expect children to arrive at school before 8.40a.m. We have a breakfast
club provision if necessary as it is important that children arrive on timed. Please
contact Ms. Vernon should you require this facility. Doors are usually open early
and children are allowed to enter school immediately on arrival when the weather is
poor. Supervision is in place, from 8.40, until the school day begins at 8.55a.m. If
your child goes home at lunchtime then they should not return until 12.55p.m. in
order that we are able to give adequate supervision.
Children should not bring valuables to school as we cannot be responsible for their
safety. As a general rule the authority will not accept responsibility for damage to
or loss of, personal clothing. It is stressed that the responsibility for safeguarding
personal property rests with the owner.
The Governors' rules regarding jewellery are simple and straightforward - only ear
studs and a wristwatch may be worn in school. In the Physical Education section
you will have already read that ear studs must be removed for all P. E. lessons by the
children themselves. Earrings are the children’s own responsibility.
We ask that all uniform is labelled clearly.
Our School Code of Behaviour is discussed with all children and as part of our
Behaviour Policy is provided in document form for all parents.
ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL During the year 2014-15
When children are absent from school, a short note or 'phone call of explanation is
essential. To ensure the safety of our pupils we operate a First Response system of
attendance. If we have not received a written or verbal reason for absence by 10
o'clock a member of our admin team will contact parents to authorise absence.
During the year 2014 - 15 there were 0.27% unauthorised absence and 3.08%
authorised absence. School’s overall attendance was 96.86%
All parents must complete an emergency contact form for their child. We may
need to contact you if your child is ill or has an accident at school.
CHARGES FOR SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
The Governing Body of Victoria Junior School has adopted Cumbria Education
Service General Admissions Policy for 2004 - 2005. A full policy statement is
available in school.
It is also the policy of the school to ask parents/guardians for voluntary
contributions to cover the costs of visits and swimming lessons. However, if there
are any financial difficulties, please contact the Headteacher. Any money coming
into school should be sent in an envelope, with the child's name, class and amount
clearly labelled.
PARENT TEACHER ORGANISATION
This is a flourishing organisation which meets regularly to arrange both social and
fund raising events. The Annual General Meeting is held early in the Autumn Term.
Chairperson: Ms. Caroline S. Vernon Secretary: Mrs J. Price
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
At Victoria Juniors we believe learning should not be limited to classrooms.
We look for every opportunity to take our children on visits, for them to work in
colleges and for them to work with businesses. We know that children learn best
when they are motivated and can see a point to lessons. We work hard to show our
children how their learning links to their lives outside school and how it will help
them to have successful futures. Each year group experiences a residential visit; Year
3 Bardsea, Year 4 Rampside, Year 5 Coniston and Year 6 London.
CHILDREN’S SERVICES DIRECTORATE
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2015/2016
Autumn Term 2015
Starts
Monday 7 September
Number of school days in term - 69
Ends
Thursday 17 December
Half-term Holiday
Monday 26 October - Friday 30 October
Spring Term 2016
Starts
Tuesday 5 January
Number of school days in term - 53
Ends
Thursday 24 March
Half-term Holiday
Monday 15 February - Friday 19 February
Good Friday 25 March - Easter Monday 28 March
Ends
Thursday 21 July
Half-term Holiday
Monday 30 May - Friday 3 June
Summer Term 2016
Starts
Monday 11 April
Number of schools days in term - 68
Early May Bank Holiday
Monday 2 May
Number of days in year - 190
INSET Day/Sessions
The 190 day school year identified above makes no provision for the additional 5 days non-contract time for which full-time teachers
are contracted. Therefore, any INSET sessions should be arranged either outside the above school term dates or outside pupil hours.
The following dates are suggested as dates that could be used for INSET:Thursday, 3 September 2015, Friday, 4 September 2015, Monday, 4 January 2016. Plus two others, to be locally determined.
Parents wishing to take children out of school for a holiday must inform school using a Holiday Absence form, however, following
Government Legislation all holidays in term time will from September 2013, be recorded as Unauthorised unless in ‘Exceptional
Circumstances’.
‘Attendance is above national levels and has improved further this year which reflects pupils enjoyment in school...’ Ofsted 2014.
SAFEGUARDING & CHILD PROTECTION
Schools do not operate in isolation. The welfare of children is a corporate responsibility of the entire local authority working in
partnership with other agencies, the voluntary sector and service users and carers. All local authority services have an impact on the
lives of children and families and local authorities have a particular responsibility towards children and families at risk from exclusion
“Working together to Safeguard Children 2005”
Child Protection is the responsibility of all adults and especially those working with children. The development of appropriate
procedures and the monitoring of good practice are the responsibilities of the Local Safeguarding Children’s Board (LSCB)
www.cumbrialscb.com
The LSCB is a multi agency organisation that puts together guidelines for Child Protection.
The information supplied in this document is in accordance with
information at present available to the Governors and is
believed to be correct at the date of printing (September 2015)
but its accuracy is not guaranteed. In particular, nothing herein
prejudices the rights of the Education Committee or any of its
Sub-Committees or the Governors or the Head of the school to
make any decisions relating to the school as is seen fit, without
regard as to whether this will affect the accuracy of any matters
contained in this publication, further, neither the Education
Authority nor the school, nor the Governors nor any member of
the staff is legally responsible for any erroneous information
contained in this document.
Designed and Printed by HSP Milners
Tel: 01229 823392