Cogan Primary School
Prospectus
HEADTEACHER
Mrs Susan Sibert
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Mr Gareth Morgan
Vision Statement
Cogan Primary School is a safe, secure and
welcoming community, where all are
respected and valued.
In partnership with parents we aim for our
children to achieve their personal best:
academically, socially and emotionally.
‘Encourage Effort: Celebrate Success’
2
INTRODUCTION
The aim of this booklet is to give parents information on our school. The information which
appears in this booklet is correct at the time of printing, but may be subject to change before
the start of, or during the school year or in subsequent years.
OUR SCHOOL
Cogan Primary School is located on the outskirts of the seaside town of Penarth in a residential
area consisting of traditional and modern private dwellings.
The school is a County Primary Mixed day School. It is a Victorian building which has been the
centre of the community since it was built in 1884. Cogan itself has grown over the years, and
is a mixture of old and new dwellings.
Accommodation is provided by two separate buildings. The main block houses the reception
class and years 1 to 3; the other building houses a hearing resource base, years 4 to 6 and a
computer suite.
Outside, there is a large hard-paved yard, a school garden and to the rear of the school is a
large fenced area of land developed for a variety of learning and adventure activities. Beyond
this the school has access to approximately six acres of grassland, which is immediately
adjacent and is used for sporting and recreational purposes.
The school has strong links with parents, there is an active and financially supportive PTA,
which, working closely with the governing body and through the organisation of a variety of
well attended events, has raised the profile of the school within the local community.
The Vale of Glamorgan Leisure Centre is five minutes walk from the school, and Cogan has a
direct rail and bus link with Cardiff General Station.
Cogan Nursery School is in the adjacent street and the school has close links with the staff of
that school, so that transition between Nursery and Primary school is smooth. The receiving
Secondary School is St. Cyres Comprehensive; the school maintains close links with the
members of staff of this school, and comprehensive transition arrangements are in place.
Parents who are considering sending their children to Cogan Primary School may visit the
school by prior arrangement with the Headteacher.
3
ESTYN INSPECTION 2012 PUTS COGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL IN THE TOP 11% OF PRIMARY
SCHOOLS IN WALES
Cogan School was inspected in February 2012 and a summary of the findings is listed as
follows:Current performance
The current performance of the school is good because:







the achievement and progress in pupils’ work are clearly evident over time;
standards of pupils’ wellbeing are secure and contribute effectively to their
social and life skills;
hearing-impaired pupils make very good progress as a result of excellent
provision within the resource unit;
the planning of lessons and other learning experiences is effective;
there are many strengths in the teaching across the school;
the use and impact of support staff are very good;
the learning environment, both indoors and outdoors is very good; and
there are very good partnerships with parents and the local community.
Prospects for improvement
The school’s prospects for improvement are good because:

the senior leadership team and staff provide a very clear direction for the work
of the school;
 the school has a very good track record of managing improvements over time;
 the school’s self-evaluation report is thorough and there are clear targets for
improvement in the school development plan; and
 all the staff are positive and are actively involved in professional development and training.
We are extremely proud of the Inspection Report and the Governors thank the staff and pupils
for all their hard work and the parents for their continued support.
There is a full range of subject and non-subject policies in the school on all aspects of school
management. These policies are reviewed on yearly or two yearly cycles as appropriate. The
policies are available for inspection, if a parent would like to view a policy please contact the
school and it will be made available.
THE AIMS OF THE SCHOOL
In Cogan School, we aim to provide a safe, stimulating environment in which all children may be
motivated towards independence of learning. We aim to develop an awareness of the need for
self-discipline in learning and social settings and to promote an atmosphere in which a child will
feel confident to express opinions on cultural, social, emotional and educational issues.
4
'PROUD TO PRESENT'
The school has a Record of Achievement programme. Children are awarded merits for
achievement, effort, good behaviour and responsibility. Badges and certificates are given at
varying stages in the programme.
Parents are also involved and can nominate their child for achievements gained outside school.
Parental involvement in pupils' learning will be strengthened through information sessions and
evening meetings. These are planned to give information on the curriculum and to plan for
home support which will benefit children. Voluntary, in-class support under teacher direction is
welcomed.
SCHOOL RULES
We aim to create a happy school environment by observing the following rules:
To treat each other with respect and to respect the authority of all adults
- teaching and non-teaching staff.

To treat the school environment and school property with respect.

To move around the school with regard to the safety of self and others.
Emphasis is placed on the development of self-discipline and mutual respect. Discipline is
developed by positive means. The School has set policies on 'Behaviour' and 'Anti-Bullying'.
All classes have clear rules, rewards and sanctions which children are made aware of.
All children are encouraged to report concerns to teachers, however, in a minority of cases
incidents may not be reported. Where this occurs it is imperative that parents contact the
Headteacher without delay, so that the appropriate action can be taken.
BREAKFAST CLUB
The school runs a Free Breakfast Club from 8.00am to 9.00am.
breakfast and can participate in a range of activities.
Children are provided with
AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS
There is an after school club facility 3.30pm to 6pm. This is run by a company called ‘Bear Pak’
they offer a range of activities and tea, the children are collected from school and taken to
Stanwell Church Hall. Please contact Bear Pak for further information. (This is in addition to
after school clubs run by teachers – page 12)
5
ADMISSIONS
The admissions arrangements for schools in the County are available for inspection at the
school, should any parent wish to see them. Any parent, living outside the school's catchment
area and wishing to enrol their child, must make application to the Education Department, Civic
Offices, Holton Road, Barry.
Reception age pupils may be admitted to school full time in the September of the academic
year in which they are five. Therefore any child reaching the age of five between 1st
September and 31st August may be admitted into school at the start of the Autumn Term of
that academic year. This is not a legal requirement and some parents may choose not to send
their children to school until later in the year.
SCHOOL SESSIONS
Morning
Lunch
Infants
Juniors
9.00 am
to
12.00noon
12.00 noon
12.00 noon
to
to
1.15pm
1.00pm
Afternoon session ends at 3.30pm for all children.
Parents are asked to ensure that children arrive in the school yard by 8.55am
The School gates are opened at 8.30 am, and closed at 9.05 am
ROAD SAFETY NEAR SCHOOL
The safety of our children is of paramount importance and so parents who drive their child to
school are asked to observe the following points:


Keep school exits clear to allow children a clear view of traffic.
Do not park on the zig-zag lines.
Do not park too close to the crossing patrol officer.
Security Arrangements
All boundary doors and gates are locked at 9.05am every morning. During the day all visitors
to the school must announce themselves through the intercom and security camera system,
identification is requested as appropriate.
CCTV cameras are situated in and around the school site.
The playground gate is re-opened at 3.25pm, to allow parents access. The class teachers lead
their classes into the playground.
6
The security of the building outside school hours is ensured by the alarm systems.
All staff, teaching, non-teaching and volunteers are CRB checked.
THE GOVERNING BODY OF COGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL
The present Governing Body of the school consist of:
Mrs S Sibert
Mr D Bennett
Ms C Martin
Mrs R Birch
Mrs C Foster
Mrs J Griffiths
Mrs L Strabel
Mr J Armstrong
Mrs A Tilley
Mrs L Evans
Mr G Morgan
Mrs A Males
Mr M Richards
Mrs Claire Price
Headteacher
Teacher Rep
Support Staff Rep
Minor Authority Rep
LA Rep
LA Rep
Parent Rep
Parent Rep
Parent Rep
Parent Rep
Community Rep
Community Rep
Community Rep
Clerk to the Governors
The present Chairman is Mr Gareth Morgan
Any correspondence for the attention of the Chairman can be sent to the school.
THE ACADEMIC ORGANISATION OF THE SCHOOL
The number of classes within the school in 2013-14 is as follows:
CLASS
Reception
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Year 6
AGE OF CHILD
TEACHER
4+ Mrs J Peate / Mrs S Joseph
5+ Mr T Lewis
6+ Mr M Owen (Head of FP)
7+ Mrs K Mayor
8+ Mr S Birchall (head of KS2)
9+ Mr D Bennett (DHT)
10+ Mrs G Lewis
Mrs R Morgan is a part-time additional needs co-ordinator [0.5]
Mrs M Thomas is teacher in charge of the Hearing Resource Base
PUPILS ARE GROUPED IN CLASSES OF MIXED ABILITY
Groups within classes are organised to allow for the effective delivery of the curriculum.
1.
Whole class grouping is employed where possible as this is the most effective use of
7
teacher time.
2.
Ability and mixed ability groups are arranged to allow for differentiation to take place.
Structure can vary in different subjects. More Able and talented pupils are planned for.
3.
Children are taught individually where necessary. The school operates a range of
intervention strategies and support programmes as appropriate, including provision for
more able and talented pupils.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Mrs S Sibert - Headteacher
Mr D Bennett – Deputy Headteacher
Mr S Birchall
Mrs M Owen
Mr T Lewis
Mrs R. Morgan –ALNCO/ SENCO
Mrs G Lewis
Mrs K Mayor
Mrs S Joseph
Mrs M Thomas
Mrs J Peate
Musical instruments: Weekly
Mrs Howells
Mrs S Davies
Mr D Wood
-
Child Protection, Whole School
Organisation, Finance and Buildings, PSE
Health and Safety, Curriculum, links with industry.
Assessment, Mathematics, Inset, Continuous
Professional Development, Skills, MAT coordinator
Head of KS2, School Council, Science/IT, LSA rotas
Head FP, Student mentor, English
Welsh, Health Education, Physical Education,
Creative Lead
Additional Learning Needs
Geography
Music and History
RE
Teacher of the Deaf
Design Technology
Art
Violin
Brass
Guitar
Welsh
Ms E Dermody - Support teacher
NON TEACHING STAFF
School Admin Officer
Learning Support Assistants
Cook
Kitchen Assistant
Mrs J Psarelis
Mrs S Boulton (HLTA)
Mrs J Winterbottom
Mrs C Martin
Mrs J Manton
Mrs S Beer
Ms J Curtin
Mrs J Sullivan
Mrs J Hazell
Mrs. D. Webber
Mrs. A Morris
8
Mrs J Packer
Ms E Hall
Miss L Arcopinto
Mrs A Leigh
Mr A Stout
Mid-day Supervisors
Mrs A Keen
Mrs C Martin
Mrs J Sneddon
Mrs Thomas
Caretaker
Mr A Patterson
Cleaners
Vale Cleaning Service
Mrs L Haggerty
Mrs J Mattinson
SAFEGUARDING / CHILD PROTECTION
The Headteacher is the designated safeguarding / child protection officer in the school.
The Deputy Headteacher is the deputy child protection officer.
There is a safeguarding / child protection policy in the school, which is updated annually and is
available to parents on request.
There is also a designated Governor for Safeguarding – Mrs J Griffiths.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CURRICULUM
The Government has set up "The National Curriculum" which is skills based not content driven,
to ensure that all pupils will continue to receive an education which is broad, balanced and
relevant to their needs and set in a clear, moral framework, preparing pupils for opportunities,
responsibilities and experiences of adult life.
The Foundation Phase (age 5-7) covers the following 7 areas of learning: Personal and Social Development
 Language, Literacy and Communication
 Mathematical Development
 Creative Development
 Knowledge and Understanding of the World
 Welsh Language Development
 Physical Development
Key Stage 2 (age 7-11) delivers the National skills curriculum which is divided into CORE
SUBJECTS, FOUNDATION SUBJECTS and RELIGIOUS EDUCATION.
9
CORE SUBJECTS
English – Languages Literacy &Communication
Maths & Numeracy
Science &Technology (DT)
FOUNDATION SUBJECTS
History, RE - Humanities
Geography - Humanities
IT/ Digital Competence
Music - Expressive Arts
Art
- Expressive Arts
Welsh
PE/ Health and Safety Education - Health and Well-Being
Religious Education is a statutory part of the curriculum but has neither Core nor Foundation
status.
Parents of Year 2 children receive Teacher Assessed outcomes in the Core Subjects skills and
Personal Social Development at the end of Foundation Phase.
Parents of Year 6 children receive Teacher Assessed levels in the skills of the Core Subjects and
Welsh 2nd Language at the end of Key Stage 2.
Foundation Phase - 5yrs - 7yrs
Key Stage 2 - 7yrs - 11yrs
From 2013, the Welsh Government has introduced tests in Reading and Mathematics for year 2
to Year 6. These are undertaken in the summer term, parents will receive their child’s results at
the end of the school year.
Equality of opportunity is provided across the curriculum.
The School has introduced a ‘Values curriculum’ which involves focussing on a value each
month, such as respect, cooperation, friendship, courage etc. This is a 2 year rolling programme
and is included in the personal and social learning programmes.
Copies of National Curriculum documents are available at School for parents' reference. It will
assist the Headteacher if an appointment is made for this purpose.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
The school is required to follow the programmes as recommended by the Local Education
Authority. All classes follow the syllabus themes; these may be viewed at the school on
request.
COLLECTIVE ACT OF WORSHIP
The Education Act states that `all pupils in attendance shall on each school day take part in an
act of collective worship'.
10
If parents wish to exercise their right to withdraw their child/ren from the act of worship, they
are invited to see the Headteacher.
The school policy for the collective act of worship is available for inspection at the school.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL LEARNING NEEDS
When children are observed as having particular difficulties in academic or social development,
parents are involved before there is any consultation with the Education Psychological Service.
Full discussions will then take place between the Headteacher and parents.
Parents will be informed if their child/ren need extra help in reading, writing, and maths. This
will be given either in class, or on other occasions, a child may be withdrawn from the class.
Concentration skills may be strengthened by short periods away from the distractions of the
classroom.
There is a Hearing resource base in the school. Children with hearing impairment are based
with their specialist teacher. They join their peer groups for aspects of the curriculum with
support, as and when it is appropriate and in consultation with the class teacher.
More able and talented pupils are identified across the school and programmes of work are set
to further develop and challenge these children.
HEALTH AND SEX EDUCATION
The National Curriculum Document in Science requires that:
"Pupils should be taught: that there are life processes, including nutrition, movement, growth
and reproduction, common to animals, including humans."
Topics throughout the school include relevant aspects of health/ sex education, there is a
Health Awareness fortnight held in the Summer Term during which we highlight crucial issues
through a variety of fun activities.
Personal relationships, responsibility for one's own actions and coping with social pressures, are
discussed in Health Education, Religious Education and Personal and Social Education (PSE).
Children are brought to the awareness of consideration for others and are helped towards
developing the concepts of caring and sharing; the basis for all happy, stable relationships
within the family and outside the family situation.
In Year 6, a film is shown to help the pupils understand how their bodies change as they grow
up. Parents are informed prior to this lesson to enable them to discuss/respond to any
questions from their children. The material used has Governor approval. If any parent wishes
to view this prior to the lesson, please contact the school.
11
SPORTING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES
Lacrosse, netball, cricket, rugby and football sessions are held after school. Two members of
staff supervise and instruct in these sporting activities.
The school participates in Rugby, Cricket, Football, Tennis, Athletics, Netball, and Lacrosse
schemes initiated by the Vale Sports Development Team.
The school participates in "Learn to Swim" schemes organised by the Vale of Glamorgan for
Year 4 pupils, and in the Cycle Proficiency scheme for Year 5 and 6 pupils.
The school is a corporate member of the National Trust. Year 6 pupils attend a residential field
study course at Stackpole, Dyfed, in the Spring Term.
Brass, guitar and violin instruction is provided by visiting music teachers.
After school clubs are held from 3.30 p.m. - 4.15 p.m. in the following areas:Sport
Eco
Sign Language
Welsh
Storytelling
Homework Club (3.30 – 5pm)
Music
Choir
Learning Squad
Coding Ukulele
Clubs are supervised by school staff. Parents must give permission for children to remain in
school and make arrangements for going home.
The school involves pupils in decision making and there are three groups that meet regularly:



School Council
Eco committee
Junior Road safety officers
12
USE OF THE WELSH LANGUAGE
In Cogan Primary School we aim to develop an awareness and respect of the Welsh Language
and culture. Specific time is allocated to the teaching of Welsh, in addition to which incidental
Welsh is used in the everyday life of the school.
POLICY FOR SCHOOL TRIPS & EXCURSIONS
Educational Visits
Educational visits are an essential, enjoyable part of school life and take place throughout the
school year in association with class projects and National Curriculum programmes of study.
Parents may be asked to make a donation for their child to participate in these visits when
necessary. (The Governing Body charging policy is outlined below). Parents/Guardians will also
be asked to fill in a form of consent. This is a very important procedure and must be completed
for a child to participate in the visit.
Charging Policy
Under the 1988 and 1993 Education Acts, the school is required to formulate a policy on
charging for school activities. The Governing Body has drawn up a policy statement in which,
for any activity taking place within school hours, we will ask for a voluntary contribution from
parents. No child can therefore be excluded from the activity because their parent is unable or
has decided not to pay. Parents will understand that unless sufficient contributions are
received, it might not be impossible to proceed with the activity.
If a trip or visit is cancelled all contributions will be refunded.
The School retains the right to request parents to pay for the cost of damage or loss caused by
their child.
13
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
Cogan School welcomes the part parents have to play in the life of the school. Staff and parents
have a joint interest; the education, health, safety and happiness of their children.
The Headteacher and staff welcome those parents who have the time to assist the teacher in
the School Reading programme.
Whenever parents volunteer their time, the Headteacher or the class teacher will explain
exactly how they may best help.
The school has a PTA (FACE) and the school benefits considerably from fund raising events. New
parents are always welcome.
REPORTING TO PARENTS
Parents' Evenings are held each term.
In broad terms, these may fall into three categories:
The Autumn Term meeting with the parents will be held close to half-term, and this will be an
opportunity for the parents to meet the class teacher and understand the expectations for the
academic year.
The Spring Term meeting will be for those parents who wish to discuss progress and concerns.
The Summer Term open evening will be held within two weeks of the end of term. This will be
an opportunity for the teacher to discuss each child's report in detail. If there are problems
that need further discussion, then a further appointment/s may be made.
Should any concerns arise throughout the year, parents will be notified and a meeting arranged
with the class teacher and/or the Headteacher.
The Additional Learning Needs support teacher will, of course, be available on that evening to
discuss the children's progress or/and will make additional times to see parents.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
The Governing Body has formulated a uniform policy. All parents are requested to support it
for the following reasons:1. Competition between pupils, about the latest fashion, is eliminated.
2. The potential for bullying is reduced as all pupils are wearing similar clothing.
3. When pupils are out of school on visits, they are more easily identifiable, which
promotes safety.
4. By eliminating peer pressure, bullying and distracting clothing, discipline is
14
Improved, both in the classroom and playground.
5. Uniform instils a sense of community and pride in our school.
It is not considered reasonable to limit parents to one supplier and cost, but to accept clothing
from a shop and price range of parental choice.
School polo shirts are light blue or navy blue (Year 6 only). Skirts and trousers are grey. The
colour of the jumper, cardigan or sweatshirt is Navy blue only. Clothing can be purchased with
school logos from Class Apart but if purchased from elsewhere other logos, brand names or
markings are considered unacceptable. Please provide a pair of wellington boots for your child
to leave in school while they are in The Foundation Phase.
SUN HATS
During the summer term it is advisable for children to wear sun hats and sun screen in hot
weather.
PE
Children are expected to change for P.E. and Games.
For PE children wear a light blue tee shirt and black shorts/joggers.
For outdoor games, parents are asked to ensure that children wear trainers or `daps'; fashion
shoes are dangerous. Children will know when Games or PE is timetabled; please co-operate
with us and remind the children to bring their appropriate clothes. For the younger children, a
"shoe-bag" marked with the child's name makes it easy for the child to carry his/her clothes for
Games or PE
JEWELLERY
In the interests of safety, earrings are not encouraged but ear STUDS only will be permitted.
Jewellery is not appropriate for school.
HAIR
Long hair must be tied back. Parents are requested to support the school in not allowing
unconventional and unorthodox hair styles, dyes and colouring.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
It is inappropriate to bring toys to school unless directed by the teacher.
ACCIDENTS IN SCHOOL
First Aid is given for minor cuts and bruises; wounds are washed with water and dressings are
applied as necessary. In the event of a head injury, the child will be kept under close
supervision and the parent or other named person will be informed. The Headteacher will act
"in loco parentis" (as a parent) and make a decision about a possible emergency visit and a
member of staff will stay with the child. Parents will be notified. We require at least two
contact numbers. Please inform School immediately if you change your contact numbers.
15
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINE IN SCHOOL
If there are cases of chronic illness or long-term complaints, these should be made known to
the Headteacher.
Parents must see the Headteacher if medication must be taken in school hours. Parents may
call at lunch time to give any necessary medication. Any problems can be discussed with the
Headteacher.
A form is completed by the parent/guardian, giving the necessary information and permission
for medicine to be administered.
FIRE DRILL
This is carried out at least once a term, and the practice is entered in the Log Book which is
inspected regularly, as are the fire appliances and fire exits.
HOMEWORK
There is a school homework policy giving further details.
Homework is used to support and develop aspects of literacy and numeracy through tasks set
by the class teacher and supervised by the parent/guardian.
FP
Reading books are taken home.
Phonic exercises.
Parents are informed of topics to enable discussion and research.
Maths homework to reflect work covered in class.
Spelling/handwriting practise
Talk Topic
KS2
There is an In-school library service of borrowing reading books.
Spelling lists and literacy tasks.
Mental arithmetic and written maths homework sheets, weekly to reflect work covered in class.
Talk topic to assist with writing tasks
Talk Topic
16
Homework tasks will vary and will involve different areas of the curriculum, at the discretion of
the class teacher. The quantity set and the input required from parents is dependent on the age
and ability of the child.
Parents will receive homework guidance fortnightly.
At FP reading and writing information sessions for parents, will be given.
Where there is a particular need, extra homework will be set to be monitored by parents.
The Special Needs Co-ordinator sets specific programmes to be completed with parental
supervision
DINNER ARRANGEMENTS
School Meals
School meals are cooked on the premises. The cost is:
£2.10 per day - Infants and Juniors
£10.50 per week - (the amount is subject to change)
The School Meals Service plan well balanced nutritional meals, which cater for varied tastes.
Vegetarian meals are also available.
Dinner Arrangements for Reception Children (new entrants)
Your child may stay to dinners; parents are asked to pay for the week’s meals in advance using
ParentPay which is a new online system. Please contact the school office for your username
and password.
Our junior children can choose whether they would like a dinner, baguette or jacket potato
each day. All meal choices are served with a salad, dessert or fruit and a drink.
In the event of a child being entitled to free meals, and subject to the form of authorisation
being received from the Education Department; a parent may wish to discuss these
arrangements with the Headteacher.
A high standard of behaviour is expected at lunchtime. Children must respond to the discipline
of mid-day supervisors. Please ensure that your child understands this if you wish him/her to
remain at school during the dinner break.
17
MORNING BREAKS
Pupils can bring a drink and fruit only to eat during the morning break. Fizzy drinks and glass
bottles are not allowed.
WATER ON DESKS
Pupils from Year 1 to Year 6 are encouraged to bring a clear labelled bottle of water to school
for frequent access through the day, this helps concentration.
THE EDUCATION (PUPIL ATTENDANCE RECORDS) REGULATIONS, 1991
Regulations regarding pupil Attendance require detailed information as to a pupil's absence
from school, and a pupil's absence from school is recorded as either:
a)
b)
Authorised absence
or
Unauthorised absence
FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN TERM TIME
Please do not ask for leave of absence for a family holiday in term time if you can avoid this.


try not to ask for absence when your child is preparing for or taking examinations and
important tests ( your class teacher can give you advice on this); and
give us at least two weeks' notice that your child is going to be away.
The school will not agree to authorised holiday absence – see below.
A pupil's absence during term can seriously disrupt their continuity of learning. Not only do
they miss the teaching provided on the days they are away, they are also less prepared for the
lessons building on that after their return. There is a consequent risk of underachievement,
which must be avoided.
If a child is absent, please contact the school before 9.30am by telephone indicating the reason
for the absence and the likely duration, this will be dated and recorded; a note should then be
sent to school when the child returns. This note will then be kept on record.
Lateness is classed as UNAUTHORISED absence; it is, therefore, important to ensure that your
child is in school by 9.00am.
Parents must sign the ‘Late Book’ in the office if children arrive after 9.00 am.
18
The regulations (Welsh Office circular No. 45/91) also require schools to provide, for
publication, information about unauthorised absences; from 1st August, 1992 all schools must
show the rate of unauthorised absences in each of the previous 3 terms.
The Education Welfare Officer visits the school to monitor attendance.
The All Wales advice for parents has also been adopted by Governors at Cogan Primary
School:
Under The Education (Penalty Notices) (Wales) regulations 2013 Local Authorities have been
given powers to issue Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) as an alternative to taking legal action
against parents/carers when responding to absenteeism from school.
The purpose of FPNs is to promote better attendance, tackle more casual absence, support
schools and local authorities ensuring parental responsibility for regular attendance, links to
attainment and be an active follow up of absence as a key element to safeguarding.
Fixed Penalty Notices will be used for pupils with:
10 or more unauthorised absences in a current term (O);
10 or more unauthorised late marks (U) in a current term;
Parents/carers have failed to engage with school and/or the Education Welfare Service but
where court sanctions have not been instigated;
A pupil regularly coming to the attention of police during school hours and without justified
reason;
Unauthorised holiday absence (G).
The Governors at Cogan Primary have ratified this policy. So from the 1st October 2014 no
holidays will be authorised in term time.
From January 1st 2015, the use of Fixed Penalty Notices will begin. Governors and the Head
teacher will be duty bound to inform the LA should the above conditions be broken and Fixed
Penalty Notices will be served by the local authority which will be £60.
‘MISS SCHOOL, MISS OUT’.
GUIDANCE ON COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE UNDER SECTION 23 OF THE EDUCATION REFORM
ACT, 1988
Procedures which are regarded as suitable to deal with complaints relating to the National
Curriculum, RE or Collective Worship are written below.
1.
The complaint should be addressed initially to the Head teacher and attempts should be
made to resolve the issue informally.
2.
If informal attempts to resolve the complaint are in the eye of the complainant
unsuccessful, the next stage is for the complaint to be heard by the Governors.
---------------------------------
We hope that you have gained knowledge of our school by reading this booklet and we look
19
forward to receiving your child.
Our aim is to help each child to develop his/her potential to the full within a caring and happy
environment.
We aspire to make your child's education lively, interesting and stimulating. We aim to provide
opportunities, which will lead children to achieving their full potential. We ask for your support
in achieving these aims.
The up to date awards held by the school are:
Becta award for excellent practice in ICT
Investors in Families
Investors in People
Eco Platinum Award [3rd flag]
Healthy Schools Awards [5]
Basic Skills Award
Catch Up Reading award
Active Cymru Mark
NACE Cymru Challenge Award
Family Information Service Award
Vale Family Information Service
Do you need childcare, activities for
children or family support?
01446 704 704 / [email protected]
20