Lower School Parent Handbook 2023-24

Lower School Parent Handbook

Your guide to Reception - Year 6

Welcome to Alton Senior School

We are delighted to welcome you to our School and Community. We are all here to guide, advise and help your child settle in quickly and happily. This Parent Handbook contains information about the Lower School years (Reception– Year 6). Please take the time to read it carefully, so that you know the routines and procedures we have in place for the benefit and well-being of your children. We believe a close and active partnership with parents is essential if your child is to thrive and succeed. The handbook is a working document and will be updated on a regular basis with the latest version available on our school website (www.altonschool.co.uk). Our School has your child at its heart. We are passionate about providing an education in a caring and supportive environment which encourages children to thrive and fulfil their potential. For new parents there is lots of information to absorb when your child joins us. We hope that this handbook will make those first few weeks easier to navigate. If you have any questions that are not answered here, please do get in touch with us at office@ altonschool.co.uk. And of course your child’s class teacher and Mrs Mooney ( Director of Lower School) are always on hand to answer questions or address any concerns or worries.

"The joy, wonderment and excitement for learning is palpable as you set foot in our Alton School Community, with a caring touch that supports and guides throughout."

- Mrs Mooney, Director of Lower School

Who we are

We are one School Community that values and cares about every child from 6 months to Sixth Form and every member of our wider community. Much of who we are stems from our Catholic heritage and regardless of your own faith we warmly welcome you.

We have a continuous educational pathway, which from an early age teaches our pupils to be self-confident and adaptable learners. We know each of our pupils individually and understand how best to balance the challenge, support and encouragement that they need to succeed. We are proud that our young people achieve excellent progress at every educational stage.

At Alton School there is the opportunity for pupils to develop a wide range of talents and interests. Beyond the core subjects, there is a breadth of sport, music, drama, art and enrichment opportunities.

We are proud to be part of a vibrant international community. Through the many trips and foreign exchanges, pupils broaden their outlook and experience the joy of being part of something meaningful.

We are committed to preparing our pupils for the future. The need to prepare our young people for a rapidly changing and technology-driven world has never been more real than it is today. Thanks to a developed use of IT within the School, we are able to teach a full and interactive timetable through our Alton@Home provision whenever the need arises.

We are always there for our pupils. Alton is a happy and friendly school with a community feel and strong pastoral care. We are bold and ambitious in our approach and in our aspirations for our pupils. We are committed to finding the spark in every child we teach, helping them to flourish and empowering them to 'be the best that they can be'.

The life of the school is founded in the Catholic tradition, which underpins who we are and how we behave.

We are one community, where we listen to each other, learn from one another and love and respect those around us.

Listening to each other is a vital part of our community. Learning is at the centre of everything we do. Love, care and kindness underpin who we are.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral care at Alton School is woven into the fabric of every pupil’s daily life. Academic success has to be underpinned by attention to the individual to ensure we nurture a wellbeing culture for all.

Our proactive approach strengthens our values, promotes character education and secures a successful pastoral curriculum.

Part of our success is a result of encouraging open lines of communication; our opendoor policy gives students the freedom to talk whenever they feel the need to. By building a culture of openness, staff are able to support students when things are small, which can often prevent things from escalating. By offering advice, support, action or just by listening, we want students to know we are here for them and to help them.

The outstanding pastoral care at Alton School is made up of a team of teachers and additional support staff. Office staff are often the first point of contact for parents and students, and they will always be more than happy to point you in the right direction if required. The wider pastoral team is supported by our excellent nursing team and our dedicated School Counsellor.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate commented in its 2017 inspection report that the quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent and they were particularly impressed with the quality of our pastoral care. As a Catholic School, we have always had a strong focus on spiritual and emotional wellbeing. We nurture our students and teach them to love and value others as well as themselves.

Learning Support

The Learning Support department is dedicated to supporting our pupils’ academic development and to co-ordinating the delivery of additional academic provision, in order to improve learning outcomes. The department encourages pupils to make the most of their personal strengths. Our aim is to help build each individual’s confidence, self esteem and ability to fulfil their potential.

Class Teachers

Class teachers are at the centre of your child’s journey and your first port of call for questions or concerns, no matter how small. They have a special responsibility for monitoring pupils’ progress, helping them to develop their potential, dealing with pastoral concerns and promoting each child’s well-being. There are opportunities to meet all of us early in the term and there is a parents’ evening just after half term. Your child will receive a full report at the end of the Summer Term and Mrs Mooney is always happy to meet with parents.

Trips and Visits

Day trips and Residentials

We are keen to provide opportunities to enrich the curriculum throughout the school year, extending education into the wider environment and drawing on outside expertise. These visits and workshops meet a number of aims:

» To support and enhance class-based work

» To broaden the experience of the children

» To provide the children with the opportunity to take part in activities which would be difficult to provide on the school site

» To provide stimulating and enjoyable experiences

» To encourage children to integrate with others and make social contacts

» To use the outdoors as an extension of classroom activities.

Occasional externally provided workshops happen in school, exploring parts of the curriculum in greater detail or from an alternative perspective.

Similarly, there is an extensive programme of curriculum-related educational visits, including

» Year 3: Activity Day at PGL and overnight stay at School

» Year 4: Residential visit to Ferny Crofts

» Year 5: Residential to the Isle of Wight

» Year 6: Residential to PGL at Osmington Bay

Full details of these activities are placed on the parent portal near the time of the trip/visit. Please read through these carefully and return the permission slips and payment promptly. There is also an information evening before the trip for a chance to meet with the teachers and ask questions. The health and safety of your children is something we take very seriously. A full risk assessment is undertaken prior to any visit/trip/activity. If you have any concerns about a particular visit or workshop, please do discuss these with the class teacher or Mrs Mooney.

Communication on School trips

We will let you know by text or email that pupils have arrived safely. This happens once pupils have settled so please do not panic if you do not hear immediately after the scheduled arrival time. We always provide an estimated time of return for school trips and you will be notified via text/email of any delay of over 30 minutes. We would ask that you are here promptly to collect pupils.

Travel documents

A valid passport for overseas visits is required. The current requirements for UK passport holders to travel to an EU country state that the passport must be:

» Issued less that 10 years before the date of entry into the country (check date of issue)

» Valid for at least 3 months after the leaving date (check expiry date)

A valid UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) allows access to state healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes free. These can be obtained though the NHS website.

School Life

Merit and Behaviour System

Merits are used to highlight a particularly strong piece of work, or a concerted effort on a piece of work, in a lesson or a school activity. Merits are also awarded for a positive social or moral act, or for making a positive contribution to the life of the school. All merits contribute to the House Academic Cup, which will be handed out in the last assembly of the School Year.

We believe in a praised based working environment. However, children will get things wrong from time to time. The nearest member of staff will address any situation. If further follow up is required, class teachers will arrange time to discuss behaviour and if needed a period of reflection will be given for a child to think about their actions. In the case of continued poor behaviour or extreme incidences, a child will be sent to Mrs Mooney and parents will be informed immediately.

House System

Pupils are allocated to one of our School Houses. There are House meetings chaired by Year 6 pupils and Pupil Forums chaired by the Alton Pupil Voice in which pupils air their views and ideas. Various House competitions, including football, rounders, general knowledge, singing, art and speech skills, take place throughout the school year. In June, the children compete in the annual Sports Day. There is an ongoing House Challenge Cup, awarded on the basis of merits accrued through the year for effort, kindness and achievements.

Acts of Worship/Chapel

All pupils participate in acts of worship and are expected to be supportive of the School’s ethos. Regular Masses are held at the start and end of each term, on Holy Days of Obligation (if at all possible) and on other special occasions. The dates for these Masses can be found in the School Calendar. Attendance at School Mass is compulsory for all pupils.

Typical School Day

Beginning of the Day

Teachers are available on the playground from 8.35am, this is an opportunity to chat to them, ask any questions or give any messages. From 8.35am, children are supervised on the playground, or inside if wet, by a member of staff. There is no supervision of children on the playground before 8.35am so parents should stay with their children. Children move quietly and quickly into school for registration at 8.40am.

Before School Care

Morning Supervision provides supervised care from 8.00am for children who need to come into school early. Children work through morning activity booklets or read quietly to set the tone for the day. Anyone who is signed up to this facility should go directly to the designated room by ringing the doorbell. There is an additional charge for before school care, please contact the School Office for more information and to sign up.

End of the Day

The school day ends at 3.40pm for all year groups. Reception children must be collected directly from their class teachers. Year 1-6 children should be collected from the playground gate. Please contact the School Office if you are inadvertently delayed. The safety of all our children is our first priority and it is essential that we know when they will be collected. Children will only be released into the care of their parents or guardians if we have been informed of other arrangements.

After School Care

‘After School Care’ is available until 6.00pm each day. Children may join straight after school or, if taking part in extra curricular clubs, after their club. During After School Care the children can quietly get on with their homework, then may use the computers to work on their touch typing or Maths skills. There is an additional charge for After School Care, please contact the School Office for more information and to sign up.

Minibus Transport

We operate transport services to and from School for Basingstoke, Liphook, Petersfield, Farnham, Haslemere and Winchester areas. Details of the current routes and pick-up points are available from the School Office.

Children arriving by school minibus (Years 3-6) should go to the Morning Supervision room if they arrive before 8.35am. There is no charge for this. Children travelling by school minibus (Year 3-6) assemble after 3.40pm in the After School Care room. A register is taken and the children make a start on supervised homework. They will be picked up from the room by their bus driver at 4:10pm. By arrangement, children with siblings in the Senior School are welcome to wait with ‘bus children’ and make a start on supervised homework until parents collect them from After School Care at 4.10pm. There is no charge.

Cubby Holes/Pegs

All year groups in the Lower School have their own designated areas where they have a cubby hole and peg to keep their school bag/book bags/ PE kits safe. We ask that all uniform and belongings are named so if they do go missing, they can be returned promptly.

Lunches

A school meal is provided for all pupils in the Refectory. Lunches are taken between 12.00 and 12.30pm. We expect lunch to be a social occasion and staff on duty check that children are choosing a healthy meal and eat with good table manners. Our caterer Holroyd Howe, commit to a Fresh Food Policy which means at least 90% of the dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients. Nutritional guidelines and sample menus are available on our website. Pupils may bring their own healthy snack for break time (no crisps, chocolate or sweets please). We recommend pupils bring in a refillable water bottle to school. No fizzy drinks are permitted.

Please note that we are a nut-free school. All snacks, cakes for cake sales and food provided for your child must be nut free. Please check packaging on all food items, particularly cereal bars.

During the lunch hour, children also enjoy a playtime to re-energise in our amazing woodlands, before returning to the classroom for afternoon registration. Grace is said in the classroom before lunch.

The Curriculum

We provide a full and well-balanced curriculum for all pupils. This is based on the British National Curriculum but goes beyond it. Each term, an outline scheme of work is published on the parent portal to inform parents of the main content of the term’s work.

The Reception Curriculum

Reception continue to follow the Foundation Stage Curriculum. The children’s learning continues to be very individual and every child is encouraged to develop and reach their full potential. Great emphasis is placed on the outdoors and children will use the wonderful grounds here at the School to enhance their learning. It is expected that the children will have achieved the Early Learning Goals in the seven areas of learning by the end of Reception.

Children will commence swimming lessons in Reception in the Summer Term which are held at Energique Fitness Centre, directly next to the School. Please do not worry about swimming lessons. The teacher and assistant both accompany the children to the pool, along with another member of staff, to ensure the safety of your children. The staff teaching the children are all fully trained and are both in the water with the children and on the pool side. The children enjoy their time at the pool but are usually quite tired during the initial few weeks.

Homework

Homework activities provide children with valuable practice related to their work in school. For parents, there is:

» The reassurance of a consistent and positive approach to homework

» An insight into some of the subjects carried out in school

» An opportunity to talk to their children about the subject

» A focus for communication with the school

For children, homework:

» Provides opportunities for independent work, consolidation and extension and to develop creativity

» Helps to develop good home study habits

» Encourages responsibility for learning

Reception, Year 1 and 2

Children may be asked to carry out certain activities which support their learning. Reception children are expected to read each evening and also work on the activities in their Phonic and Number Packs. In the Summer Term, a practical weekly task will also be set through Tapestry. In Years 1 and 2 children are expected to learn spellings for a weekly test and to read to a parent/guardian each evening. Written tasks and creative tasks linked to the curriculum may also be set.

Years 3 – 6

Children are expected to read every evening as part of their homework tasks. Weekly features are the learning of spellings and tables. Children are also expected to complete a set written task most evenings. The duration of all tasks will increase as children move through the school. Suggested guidelines are from 20 minutes in Year 3 and up to 40 minutes by the end of Year 6. In Years 5 and 6 children are encouraged to undertake independent research.

Maths homework may take the form of mental maths tasks, problem solving or the completion of tasks on MyMaths.

Creative tasks will be set regularly, often as a weekend activity. We have high expectations of the quality and presentation of all homework. All homework is written on the board for the children to record. Parents are asked to check homework diaries nightly. Comments made in the diary enable parents and teachers to liaise on a regular basis. Any problems regarding homework should be discussed with the class teacher as soon as possible)

By the Spring Term, Year 6 will be introduced to ShowMyHomework, which is used in the Senior School, in preparation for their transition, and will no longer use their Homework Diary.

We are guiding the leaders of the future and understand the need for excellent IT and presentation skills. Technical skills will be essential for career success and growth. Key Stage 2 pupils may well be asked to complete computer-based research and create IT presentations over the course of the year during their homework time. This will enable improved confidence and develop those digital skills which are a critical component of life long learning.

Enrichment

Extra Curricular Clubs

A range of extra-curricular activities is offered by teachers and outside providers after school until 5.00pm. These vary each term. A list is available at the end of the previous term or half term and children are invited to choose what they would like to do. Children taking part in these activities should be collected promptly from the playground or designated area, or they may join ‘After School Care’ until their collection time.

Music

Music is highly valued at Alton School and all pupils are encouraged to get involved. In addition to the specialist class music teachers, a team of highly qualified peripatetic staff support the department, allowing pupils to take part in music-making at every level. Individual tuition is available in the following instruments: voice, flute, clarinet, saxophone, brass, violin/viola, guitar (acoustic/electric), drums, piano/keyboard.

Parents wishing their children to receive private lessons in music should contact the Music Department.

Arrangements for fees and lessons are with the peripatetic teacher and not the School. If your child plays a musical instrument or sings there is the opportunity to join the choir and/or orchestra.

Mrs Cowan is the contact for Lower School Music: hcowan@altonschool.co.uk

Dr Shahov is the contact for individual music lessons: pshahov@altonschool.co.uk

Drama

Within our curriculum we place importance upon children learning through first-hand experiences. Children like to move and interact with others. Through our use of Drama to support the curriculum, children are encouraged to move, speak and respond to one another, often creating imaginary and multi-sensory learning experiences. This in turn helps to build children’s skills such as creativity, enquiry, communication, empathy, self-confidence, co-operation, leadership and problem solving. Most importantly, drama activities make the learning fun, experiential and memorable. Our bespoke Drama Studio is a wonderful resource, fully equipped for rehearsals and classes. The pupils in Lower School have many opportunities to perform for an audience as they move through the Lower School, developing their creativity and confidence to perform. Pupils in Year 3-6 all take part in a class assembly at some point during the year and Reception to Year 2 perform in an annual Nativity production and an Easter Assembly. The pupils in Year 3-6 have Drama taught by a specialist teacher. Our older pupils may also have the opportunity to perform in some small part in the Senior School production.

Mrs Regan is the contact for Drama: aregan@altonschool.co.uk.

Sport

Sport gives pupils the opportunity to be part of a team, learn about themselves and challenge their body, physically and mentally. We believe that a positive sporting experience at school encourages a lifelong love of sport and exercise. As part of our curriculum we provide weekly sporting fixtures for pupils in Years 3-6. It is extremely rewarding to see pupils taking part in matches on a regular basis, playing as part of a team and representing the school. The success of our sporting fixtures relies on the involvement of as many pupils as possible, not just the School’s best athletes. Achieving an inclusive approach in team sports is essential for the well-being and health of all of our pupils. We also understand that sport is far more than what happens on the sports field or court. Sport instils lifelong values into our pupils such as confidence, discipline, respect, decision-making skills, as well as an understanding of teams and leadership. Whether your child is an aspiring athlete or playing sport recreationally for fun and enjoyment, the opportunities to play in sporting fixtures, both at home and away, throughout the Lower School aim to inspire and motivate our pupils for life.

Equestrian

We offer Equestrian lessons at Greatham riding school after school on a Thursday for Years 2-13 for all abilities. You will receive further information at the beginning of each term to sign up for these lessons.

Mrs Naylor-Davis is the contact for Equestrian: jnaylor-davis@altonschool.co.uk.

LAMDA and Dance

Group and individual LAMDA and Dance lessons are available with our visiting teachers. Arrangements for fees and lessons are with the peripatetic teacher and not the School. Please contact the School Office for further information: office@altonschool.co.uk.

Hypatia (Year 6)

Pupils in Year 6 may get the opportunity to join the Senior School programme. This is an enrichment programme which culminates in an exhibition evening in the Summer Term. Pupils produce a project on a subject of their choosing with the support of a teacher. Previous projects have included equestrian art, original song compositions, Alton School Dobble, racing cars, and many others.

Before you start in September

Prior to beginning School in September, it is important to ensure that you have all necessary items prepared, such as uniform, equipment and other essential materials. Pupils are given a list of equipment that will be required for the start of the academic year. For pupils entering the school during the academic year, the form teacher will give the parents a list prior to joining us. Exercise books are provided by the School.

Uniform

It is our School Policy that all pupils wear School uniform when attending School, or when participating in a school-organised event outside normal school hours. Details of School uniform are sent to you with your induction pack and can also be found online with our uniform supplier: Stevensons Ltd (www.stevensons.co.uk). Sports uniform can be purchased at www.bluebloodsports.co.uk.

Children are expected to wear full School uniform at all times and abide by the rules. School uniform must be kept in good condition and replaced where necessary. If there is any reason why this is temporarily not possible, notification in writing is required. Sensible school shoes should be worn. All pupils are requested to wear black shoes, polished at all times and with heels not exceeding 2 cms.

Do name everything, including shoes, trainers and sports equipment. Uniform is very expensive and Class Teachers do a name check every term, but some children are very casual about possessions. There are often unnamed articles at the end of term that are never claimed.

Please check the PE kit comes home for washing regularly – especially at half term and for the holidays. Articles left at the end of the Summer Term may be disposed of if not collected. Weather permitting, summer uniform may be worn after the Easter holidays and during the first half of the Autumn Term. New entrants should start the year in winter uniform.

Second-hand uniform and Stikins - label your belongings

We have a second-hand uniform shop run by parents. The organising parents can be contacted at secondhanduniform@altonschool.co.uk. To see their stock please visit their website https://www.pta-events.co.uk/altonschool

Our PTFA have a fundraising account with stikins which is a great way of naming uniform and belongings. Visit www.stikins.co.uk and use the code 36217 to help fundraise for the PTFA.

Equipment - Years 3-6

Pupils are required to have a well-stocked pencil case containing the following items:

» A minimum of 2 pencils

» A pencil sharpener

» A ruler

» Colouring Pencils

» A purple biro

» Glue stick

» Scissors

» A blue Berol writing pen- Years 5 and 6

» A protractor and compass – Year 6

Personal Appearance

Hair, jewellery, makeup and nails

Pupils are not permitted to have extreme hair cuts or unnatural colours. Hair below collar length should be tied up. On health and safety grounds we do not allow pupils to wear jewellery in our School. The exceptions to this rule are one small, plain ring, a discreet cross on a chain and one pair of gold or silver earring studs in the lower lobe of pierced ears (no other piercings are permitted). We ask pupils to remove all jewellery during PE and games to prevent injury.

The role of parents

We ask our parents to support the School Uniform Policy. Please ensure that your child has the correct uniform, and that it is clean and in good repair.

Modification of uniform policy

We welcome pupils from all backgrounds and faith communities. If for significant reasons e.g. religious grounds, parents request a modification to current uniform e.g. wearing of hijab or a longer length skirt, we will seek to accommodate the modification as far as possible.

Mufti Days

All students are still expected to dress appropriately and in a manner conducive for a working and learning environment. This includes suitable footwear for moving around the School site. There is often a theme to mufti days for various charities and we encourage all pupils to enter into the spirit of these themes.

Code of Conduct

» When people are upset try to help them in the best way you can and inform a teacher.

» Be kind and sympathetic.

» Always be polite and make people feel welcome. Have good manners, open doors for others and, of course, remember to say please and thank you.

» Make work easier for the duty staff by being well-mannered and thoughtful.

» Try hard at all things but always ask for help if you are stuck.

» Keep our School clean and tidy and help put things away after being used.

» Always respect equipment.

» Walk in school and keep to the left of corridors.

» Try to be punctual, arriving at school on time and completing work in the set time, including homework.

» Try to keep noise at a sensible level.

» If anyone has an accident on the playground tell the nearest teacher on duty.

» Try to understand other people’s point of view.

» Be aware of children smaller than yourself.

» Older children should set an example to the younger children.

» Line up quickly and quietly when the whistle blows.

Social media and gaming

Please note that pupils should not bring any devices into school. If your child takes the School minibus and needs to bring their mobile to School, they should give it to their class teacher in the morning. The majority of social media platforms are 13+ although there are some which are designed for younger users. If your children have mobile devices, please monitor what information is being shared. Taking the stance that your child’s right to ‘privacy’ is more important than their safety is highly inadvisable. Social networking sites, gaming, emails and text messages can all put your child at risk. Please put your child’s safety before their privacy and keep checking what they are doing as they grow older.

We run regular sessions in school regarding internet safety and wellbeing. We also offer sessions for parents. Please look out for these in the calendar.

Please see below advice from Child Exploitation and Online Protection:

Talk honestly with your child. The best way to prepare your child for using social media is to talk about it before they create an account. Let them know you want to support them as they begin to explore, and that they can come to you if they have any worries. Talk about any worries you might have, and why.

Explore together. Once you have agreed which social media they can use, explore it together. Look at the privacy settings, online profiles and talk with them about how they can use it safely. Talk about how people behave online, fake profiles, what’s appropriate and what good friendship looks like online.

Make an agreement. Include how they choose friends, what they can post, and how often they can use it. Agree how to supervise their online activity.

Communication from School

Parent Portal

Our parent portal can be accessed via our website or via an app. You will be sent login details before your child starts at Alton School. The parent portal allows you to access information about your child’s activities, curriculum and progress. Our website (altonschool.co.uk) is the best point of reference for any policy documents. We aim to be as ‘paper free’ as possible, and so will not send you hard copies of these documents automatically. We are of course very happy to send you documentation if needed. Please speak to the School Office if this is the case.

The Weekly Roundup & Email Communication

We communicate via the parent portal as much as possible. Every Thursday we send out the Weekly Roundup via email to all parents alerting them to new information that has been added to the portal that week. This email also contains links to extra information and letters from the School. Urgent information which we need to communicate to parents, for instance a school closure, will be sent via an email and may be backed up by text message if needed. Parents are asked to ensure that they keep us updated with any change of email addresses or mobile numbers. Each class teacher also sends a weekly email to parents with updates on what has been happening in the classroom during the week.

Parents’ Evenings and Welcome Evenings

At the start of each Autumn Term, there are a series of Welcome Evenings during which aspects of School life relating to academic and pastoral routines are explained. In addition, Class Teachers attend these evenings, which is a good opportunity for you to meet them.

Reception -Year 6 have 2 parents’ evening in the Autumn Term and 1 in the Spring Term. The first one in the Autumn Term is more of an information evening explaining how the year / curriculum will look. The second one is to update parents on how their child has settled into the year and how they are working both in and out of lessons. Evenings are organised through an online Parents Evening System where you book the slots you require. The first part of the evening is for face to face meetings and then online sessions are available for those who would prefer them. In addition to parents’ evenings, parents receive a written report in the Summer Term which contains a full write up on all subjects that children take part in at school.

SOCS (Sporting Fixtures)

We have a dedicated website and app for tracking sports fixtures including times, locations and team selections. Instructions on how to download the app are on the Parent Portal. All fixtures are put onto the app at least a week in advance. We ask parents to keep an eye on the app until up to half an hour before the fixture starts as it will be updated if the fixture has been cancelled.

Newsletters & Social Media

The marketing department produces a whole School Newsletter every half term which shows what has been going on throughout the School from our youngest to the oldest pupils. We are also busy on social media sharing insights into all that is going on across the School. Please do follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

If your child has done something that you would like us to share, please contact the Marketing team via communications@altonschool.co.uk.

Communication to School

The School Office

The School Office (tel: 01420 82070, email: office@altonschool.co.uk) should be the first port of call for all visitors to the school. The office staff will be able to take messages from parents for staff and provide information. Please feel free to phone between 8.30am and 5.00pm when there will always be someone willing to help.

Lateness

If a child is late for school and misses registration (8.40-8.50am) pupils must sign in at the School Office. Registers will be amended from this information.

Absence

For safeguarding reasons it is essential that we know if your child is not coming to school.

» Telephone 01420 82070 and select option 1 for absence. Please leave their name, year group and a brief description of why they are absent

» We must be informed of an absence for illness on each day of the absence

» Once the period of absence is ended, please email the Class Teacher with confirmation of the total days of absence

We ask you to avoid booking medical appointments during the school day, however we are aware that at times this is not possible. For planned absences from School or lessons, such as dental/medical appointments which are likely to be less than half a day, then you can notify the relevant tutor directly.

If your child needs to leave school during the day, they must sign out in the ‘Signing Out’ book in the School Office and sign back in when they return.

There is a proven link between attendance and achievement. We want all pupils to achieve the highest possible standards, and therefore attendance is constantly monitored. Those whose attendance falls below 95% will be interviewed. Parents will be notified when unauthorised absence occurs. This applies to any absence not explained in writing or by telephone by a parent/carer.

Parents are asked to avoid booking family holidays in term time. However, should this be absolutely unavoidable, please write to the Director of Lower School requesting permission. On these occasions, your child will be marked as unauthorised absence on the register.

School Records

We ask you to be vigilant about keeping medical records and contact numbers updated. Should there be any change in your child’s health or family circumstances, or any problem that may affect your child, please let us know in writing as soon as possible.

Community

School Events

Twice a year we hold a Saturday morning Open Day, which are our opportunity to showcase Alton School to prospective parents and pupils. We regard these as compulsory school days and all students should attend. The dates are available in the calendar at the start of the academic year and we would appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that students are available.

Our traditional Christmas Fayre and the PTFA’s Summer Fete may fall on Saturdays. We rely on our parents’ and pupils’ support and attendance to ensure the success of these events. They are both important fundraisers for the School.

Key Events

Whole School Open Days

These are usually held in the first half of the Autumn and Summer Terms. Please check the calendar for dates.

Feast Day

The School closes for a day at the end of November. This is to observe the Feast Day of Our Lady of Providence.

Celebration of Christmas

A widley anticipated event for Years 3 to 13. The choirs of Alton School come together to perform a beautiful carol service at the beginning of December.

Christmas Fayre

Our PTFA run a fayre to get us into the Christmas spirit. This is either held on a Friday or Saturday at the beginning of December.

Senior School Production

Lower School may be involved in the School production. We encourage as many as possible to come and watch.

Summer Fayre

Our PTFA run a Summer Fayre during the Summer Term. This is usually on a Friday afternoon but can sometimes fall on a Saturday.

Sports Day

Sports days are held in the middle of the Summer Term. All parents are welcome to join the day to support the pupils.

Founder's Day

Founder’s Day is when we celebrate the success of our pupils. Prizes are given to pupils throughout the School for good conduct, effort, achievement, progress and contribution. This event is held towards the end of the Summer Term.

Our PTFA

Our PTFA is a very important part of our School Community to which everyone is welcome. All parents are automatically members of the PTFA when they join the School. Whether as an active committee member or as an attendee to one of the PTFA events, your contribution will be gratefully received. There is an annual PTFA AGM where the Committee agrees its members and its plans for the year. The Committee organises regular events and fundraising opportunities and works with class representatives.

The success of everything the PTFA does depends very much upon the enthusiasm and support offered by the whole School Community. Please let us know if you have experience or expertise which might be helpful. The School calendar, which is sent out in the summer holidays and can be found on the parent portal, contains dates of the main PTFA events. Further details are added to the parent portal nearer the time and communicated to parents.

The PTFA Committee meets reguarly and extends a warm open invite to any parents who would like to join them for a tea or coffee. Dates of these meetings will be circulated.

We have a second-hand uniform shop run by parents. The organising parents can be contacted at secondhanduniform@altonschool.co.uk. To see their stock please visit their website https://www.pta-events.co.uk/altonschool

If you would like to be on the PTFA list of willing helpers, or have any questions, please email: ptfa@altonschool.co.uk including your child’s year group.

Extra event information

There are regular teatime music concerts, drama showcases and PTFA social events. You will find dates on the Parent Portal Calendar, which you will be able to access from September.

All of our term dates can be found on our website.

Administration

Fees

The Governing Body determines these annually during the Spring Term. Fees are payable in advance on the first day of each term. Parents are able to set up a monthly standing order with their bank, over 10 months - September to July, to cover school fees. Please contact the School’s Bursar, Mrs Magdalena Jackson (bursar@altonschool.co.uk ) for further details. Parents are reminded that a term’s notice is required when a child is to be withdrawn from the School or stop any activities which incur additional costs. Notice needs to be in writing addressed to the Headmaster. Termly bills may also include charges related to extras, e.g. school trips, lost books, chargeable activities (CCF or DoE)

Deposit

The deposit is held on the account throughout your child’s education at the School. The leaver’s bill is raised once a child leaves the School which may include final charges – all credit balances are refunded to parents unless they wish to donate them to the School.

Minibus Transport

We operate transport services to and from School for Basingstoke, Liphook, Petersfield, Farnham, Haslemere and Winchester areas. Details of the current routes and pick-up points are available from the School Office.

Car Parking

We are fortunate to have ample parking. However, our car park can be very busy at peak times and we ask for your cooperation with the system as outlined below.

Please drive carefully and slowly when passing through the car park. There is a 5mph limit. Please use the closed off pathways, do not walk in the parking areas. Please do not stop to drop pupils off before reaching the allocated area. We aim to minimise the danger to all.

Staff park at the bottom end of the car park. The upper right is for Lower School parents to park and drop off. The upper left is for the Senior School parents to park and drop off and for Sixth Formers to park.

Although there is no one-way system indicated, please drive out through the car park and not back up the main drive.

If the car park is full, please park in Anstey Lane but not too close to the School exit and with consideration for local residents.

The crossing is patrolled from 8.30am to 9.00am and from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Please use this crossing and move in front of the person on duty, not behind out of their vision.

The Nursery car park is strictly for Nursery parents only. Please note that the disabled parking by the wooden bin store should not be used as a drop off point for parents without a blue badge.

Policies

Our School Policies can be found on our website. If you wish to have a hard copy please contact the Headmaster’s PA or the School Office.

» Admissions

» Anti-bullying

» Child Protection

» Safeguarding of children

» Complaints Procedure

» Confidentiality

» First Aid

» Health and Safety

» Missing Child

» Non Collection of Child

» School Trips and Educational Visits

» SEND & Learning Support Policy

» Discipline, Behaviour, Rewards and Sanctions

» Emergency Closure

Privacy & School Records

» English as an Additional Language Policy

» Ethos

» Exclusions Policy

» Curriculum Policy

» Relationships and Sex Education Policy

» Fundamental British Values Policy

» PSHMEE Policy

» Online Safety Policy

» Supervision of Students (incl EYFS) Policy

» Risk Assessement Policy

» Equal Opportunities Policy

» Accessibility Plan

Records are checked regularly to ensure we have the most up-to-date information for your child, but we ask you to be vigilant about keeping contact and medical details updated. Should there be any change in your child’s health, family circumstances, or any problem that may affect your child, including any dietary requirements, please let the School know in writing as soon as possible. The School’s privacy notice is on our website.

Complaints

If you have a complaint please refer to the Complaints Procedures which are available on our website or from the Headmaster’s PA, enquiries@altonschool.co.uk.

Medical Arrangements

If pupils feel unwell during a lesson the teacher will send them to the School Office and the School Nurse will be contacted. If it is outside lesson time, the pupil must in the first instance contact his or her Class Teacher who will assess the situation, then contact the School Nurse if necessary. A number of staff are qualified first aiders. Paracetamol may only be issued to a child if parents have given consent by signing the back of the medical form. If a pupil is not well enough to remain in school, or needs hospital treatment, parents will be contacted. No pupil can phone home or leave the School without prior permission from the Class Teacher, relevant Director of School, Deputy Head, or Headmaster.

Pupils should never phone you directly to ask you to come and collect them.

If your child has a life-threatening condition which would require a teacher to administer a particular drug (for example the Epipen for anaphylactic shock), please contact the School Nurse to discuss the procedure and required permissions.

If your son or daughter has an injury or receives medical treatment that affects their mobility in School, or affects their ability to function or dress as normal, then they may not return to School until you have provided detailed information to the Director of Lower School and this has been agreed. This includes describing any special medical aids, footwear, clothing or bandaging and how long such treatment/ aid will be necessary. This should be a consultative discussion, not a letter or email sent with a returning pupil just stating what has happened. We need to know full details how mobility is affected and how a pupil will manage the normal day to day routine of school. As you will appreciate, the stairs and corridors are busy when lessons change and safety is paramount. The School will then undertake a risk assessment and together with you, agree on the terms and conditions needed to accept your child back into school.

While it is not our policy to care for sick children, who should be at home until they are well enough to return to the school, we will agree to administer medication as part of maintaining their health and wellbeing or when they are recovering from an illness. All medicine must be provided to School in original package showing the prescribed dosage.

In many cases, it is possible for a child’s GP to prescribe medicine that can be taken at home in the morning and evening. As far as possible, administering medicines will only be done where it would be detrimental to the child’s health if not given in school.

Due to safeguarding regulations, no pupil can carry or self-administer medications including paracetamol and ibuprofen. Any medication needs to be handed in with a parental permission slip which is available from the School Office.

Immunisations

We invite the Hampshire NHS Schools Division to deliver immunisations at school, currently covering the nasal flu immunisation.

Safeguarding & Child Protection

Ensuring the safety and welfare of all our pupils at Alton School is critical. It is our aim to know everyone as an individual and to provide a secure and caring environment so that every pupil can learn in safety.

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility; all members of staff have a duty to safeguard our pupils’ welfare and are trained to do so. In all matters relating to safeguarding and child protection, the School follows its own procedures, those of the Hampshire Safeguarding Children Board together with Department of Education guidance contained in Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) and Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE 2023).

If anyone has a concern about the safety or welfare of a pupil, they have a duty to report this concern to the DSL.

All staff have a responsibility for the personal and academic development of our pupils but if you have any problems concerning your child, you are asked to first write or phone the Class Teacher who has daily contact with their class. If necessary, concerns will be passed to the Director of Lower School.

If you need to speak to a DSL or Pastoral Lead, please contact the School Office.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

Scott Sanderson - Deputy Head. Email: ssanderson@altonschool.co.uk

Deputy DSLs (DDSLs):

Sarah Harvey - Nursery Manger EYFS. Email: sharvey@altonschool.co.uk.

Jackie Ward - Director of Upper School. Email: jward@altonschool.co.uk.

Gerry Mooney - Director of Lower School. Email: gmooney@altonschool.co.uk

Nominated Safeguarding and Child Protection Governors:

Mrs Sheila Mansell, Mr Nicholas Caddick and Mrs Heather Trim. Contact through the Clerk to the Governors: email: bursar@altonschool.co.uk.

If you do not wish to contact the School, please refer to our Safeguarding Policy on our website where you will find additional numbers for support.

If you have concerns about online safety, you should report this to the School. However, you (adult or pupil) can report your concerns to CEOP, Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre by clicking the link below. www.thinkuknow.co.uk.

Further details about the School’s approach to Safeguarding and Child Protection can be found in the Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy on our website www. altonschool.co.uk.