Moor Allerton Hall Primary School 2018-19 Prospectus

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL

School Prospectus 2018-19

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL

Contents Letter from the Head Teacher School Vision Statement About Moor Allerton Hall Primary School Safeguarding Foundation stage intake Extra Curricular Activities Homework Communication between school and families Friends of Moor Allerton Hall (PTA) Before and after school child care Special Educational Needs Curriculum Supporting good learning mindsets 2018 Assessment results

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PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Parents and Carers, Welcome to Moor Allerton Hall Primary School. We look forward to you becoming part of our school family. Our school has great children who bring a wide range of excellent experiences to share. You will find as you go round school that classes are full of fabulous, friendly, smiley children who know how to learn together and look after each other. They are children who want to do well and become ‘high fliers’. Our staff are a great group of professionals who will support and challenge your children to help them become caring, confident, ambitious young people who achieve well. We believe working with families is essential, so we will keep you involved in your child’s learning and welcome you into school on a regular basis to join in.

This is a very exciting place to be part of just now as our school is on a journey of improvement towards excellence. I am very proud of the things we have already achieved in developing positive partnerships with our families, improving our curriculum and in creating a positive learning atmosphere in each of our classes.

We will support your child to achieve the best whatever their starting point.

Learning here is fun, practical and interactive. We know children need a good balance between essential basic skills for reading, writing and calculating and wider skills to tackle learning about the wider world. We also think it is important that children learn how to learn, not just what to learn. Knowing how to work together to solve problems and discover answers is an essential life skill which will help your child to face the future confidently. See our leaflet on mindset for more details of how we do this.

I look forward to working with you to ensure your child has a great time in our primary school.

Yours sincerely,

Lesley McKay Head Teacher

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL School Vision Statement Our school is on a journey of improvement, towards excellence. Our vision for all children is that they have an opportunity to: • Develop a life-long love of learning • Become active citizens who make a positive contribution • Gain confidence and ambition • Make excellent progress, whatever their starting point • Benefit from exciting opportunities • Develop skills and confidence to face the future We aim to be the school of choice in the area bestowing upon children: ‘The roots to grow and the wings to fly’

“Our daughter is so happy and settled at school. She is relishing learning, and in particular learning about other cultures and religions. A highlight for us was the fantastic ‘Nativity and the Three Bears’ which the Reception class put on. The teachers gave our daughter the confidence to stand up in front of all the parents to introduce the show – she was thrilled!

I can’t speak highly enough of the school and in particular how you manage to keep learning a really fun experience for all the children. Thank you!”

- Year 1 parent

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL About Moor Allerton Hall Primary School Our facilities The school building and grounds have excellent facilities, including: • Class spaces with sound systems so all children can hear their teacher clearly • Newly improved school hall, with specialist soft floor for PE and dance • Recently revamped school library used regularly by classes with electronic booking out system • 3 class sets of ipads and two class sets of laptops so children can regularly access programmes and online materials to support all areas of learning not just the computing curriculum • Two large playgrounds, separated for younger and older children, ensuring safe, age appropriate play.

• Additional large field space and woodland space opened up in 2016 with financial support from our PTA • Outdoor adventure equipment in the playground installed in 2014 from National Lottery funding and an additional climbing wall financed by the PTA. • Community room for parent meetings, before and after school child care provision • Additional intervention and nurture spaces for small group work • Specialist classroom for deaf instruction • Excellent outdoor learning areas for each of nursery and reception Our family Moor Allerton Hall is a Community Primary School for children aged 4 to 11 years and a nursery for children aged 3 to 4 years with 26 flexible provision places available. It is a purpose built primary school which is beautifully kept to create a fabulous learning environment for your child. We are currently a two form entry school with bulge cohorts of 90 children in both Reception and Year 1. Classes will not usually exceed 30. From September 2019, we will

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL become a permanent 3 form entry school with new building facilities. Every class has a well-qualified teaching assistant supporting the teacher with learning.

We are an inclusive school and welcome children with a range of abilities including physical disabilities, special language or learning needs and those who are academically very able. We have a small number of Deaf and hearing impaired children within our school family who have specialist staff working with them. We aim for all children to make excellent progress in our care, regardless of starting points.

Moor Allerton Hall is a multicultural school celebrating many languages and cultures which represent the city of Leeds as a whole. This provides an excellent environment to learn care, respect and understanding of each other’s backgrounds. Our fabulous Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural curriculum has recently been audited as having outstanding features.

‘...the quality of relationships and pupil perceptions of fairness and equality were obvious strengths.’

- SMSC Audit – March 2016

‘Cultural diversity is celebrated extensively by the school in order to reflect the local demographic and encourage respect, tolerance and understanding.’

- SMSC Audit – March 2016

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Safeguarding At Moor Allerton Hall Primary School we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of children. Our school expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We listen to our pupils and take seriously what they tell us. Our aim is for the children to enjoy their time as pupils in this school. They will feel happy and safe in our caring environment. Through the curriculum, we will develop self-esteem and independence as well as an understanding of how to keep themselves safe in the community, ever changing wider world and online. We work in partnership with you to help your child achieve their full potential and make a positive contribution.

We have effective safeguarding procedures in place to support families, children and staff. Our recruitment policy includes all checks on staff and volunteers. All concerns are passed to the members of staff who are trained as Designated Child Protection Officers in school. We follow the guidelines laid down by the local safeguarding team and social care and staff receive regular training. All our staff know who to contact for the best advice and help and are experienced in using the appropriate degree of confidentiality. All our safeguarding policies are available on the school website and in school.

E-Safety We support our pupils’ use of the internet and seek to underpin their knowledge of safe use and protection. We provide our pupils with an awareness of how to stay safe online both in the school environment and beyond. We believe that children should adhere to the certification given to games, DVDs etc. All of the games and DVDs used at school will be rated as U. Facebook/Social media sites Children of primary school age are not entitled to use Facebook. Children will not be using social media sites during school hours. We also ask parent/carers not to name school, staff or other children on SMS.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL

Pastoral Care This team includes the learning mentors, attendance officer, behaviour support worker, parent support worker, SEN-Co and other staff. They work with children, parents and school staff to ensure that children are getting the best from school. They are employed by school to provide support for pupils to develop academic, personal and social skills. Their roles are numerous and varied and they provide support primarily in the following areas: Ø Children and families Ø Relationships and behaviour (Raising self-esteem) Ø All areas of transition Ø Child protection

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Foundation stage intake Children are normally admitted to primary school in the September of the school year in which they will turn 5 years old. Application forms are available from the Leeds City Council Admissions Team or you can apply online. If you have any queries you can contact the admissions team on 0113 2224414.

During April/May, after parents have had their school allocation letters, we will send a welcome letter out inviting all of our new families to an open evening.

This will allow both our ‘old’ and ‘new’ parents the opportunity to meet staff and receive information about the FS curriculum and how our reception classes operate. Parents may also look around the rest of the school if they wish.

Parents will be provided with a pack of information which includes their child’s starting date for September and also dates for when they can bring their child in to visit during the summer term.

There are up to four visits lasting approximately an hour each. The teachers and support assistants will chat and play with the children allowing them the opportunity to make connections with the staff and the environment and meet some of their new class mates.

At the start of the new school year children are admitted in small groups over a period of 3-4 weeks. The youngest children are invited first as this is a quieter and calmer time, more suitable to these children, who may well need more attention and time to settle. Parents and carers are welcome to stay during the first few days, as we are committed to developing positive links between home and school.

Later in the Autumn term, once children and staff have got to know each other, parents are invited to come and discuss their child’s progress on an

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL individual basis, during parent consultations meetings. However, if any parent has any concerns, comments or questions, they are of course welcome to speak to their child’s class teacher at any time.

“I first recall visiting Moor Allerton Hall Primary School as part of an open day for new pupils. I was impressed by the staff and school’s philosophy towards providing a supportive learning environment. Moreover, in short, the idea that how you learn is as important as what you learn. That is, supporting children develop a spirit of enquiry, the ability to work independently and as a team, enhancing communication skills and also, developing resilience. As a university lecturer I often teach 18-year-old students who lack these very skills, and hence struggle with higher levels of education. I also think becoming resilient is a crucial skill in and beyond an educational context; it is an important life lesson. After this first visit, I knew this was the school for my son.”

-

Year 1 parent

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Extra Curricular Activities We offer a range of extra-curricular clubs every term to enhance children’s experiences at school. The activities usually run after school for one hour over a term or more and are managed by school staff or by specialist providers.

Most clubs charge a very reasonable attendance fee. Those children entitled to Pupil Premium funding are entitled to reduced fees.

Currently our activities include: Ø Football club Ø Gymnastics club Ø Starlight performing arts club Ø Guitar club Ø Music club Ø Frisbee club Ø Athletics club Ø Debate club Ø Netball club

“Both my children are happy to come to school. They are enjoying their learning and have the opportunity to engage in a range of additional experiences which help them to develop emotionally, socially and culturally. Thanks to all the staff for their great work” - Year 3 and Reception parent

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Homework Homework is set on Thursdays and completion is expected by the following Tuesday. Year 6 children are set homework on Thursdays and completion is expected by the following Thursday.

Spellings Children are given a list of spellings each week. They need to practise these words at home and will be given a test the following week to check if they know them.

Year 1 and 2 - 6 words Year 3 - 12 words Year 4 and 5 - 15 words Year 6 - 20 words Reading and Reading Journals All children from year 2 through to year 6 are expected to read at least three times a week, for at least ten minutes. They are expected to complete a short task in their reading journal to show that they have understood what they have read.

Parents of children in nursery, reception and year 1 are expected to read to their child every night and talk about what they have read.

Activities on the computer Children will be set activities to complete on Bug Club and My Maths.

Year 1 and 2 are set one piece of homework each week which alternates between the two programs. Week one is My Maths and the following week is Bug Club.

Year 3 through to year 6 are set weekly tasks on both the My Maths and Bug Club programs.

If children do not have access to computers at home teachers will provide times during the school day for children to complete the tasks set.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL KIRFS (maths key instant recall facts) These are set every half term and are tested in class. They are based on mental maths facts the children should be able to remember quickly. They are available on our website. http://www.moorallertonhall.leeds.sch.uk Written homework Year 3 and 4 - one piece of open-ended written homework which can be focused on English or maths Year 5 - one piece of SPAG (spelling, punctuation and grammar) Year 6 - one piece of SPAG (spelling, punctuation and grammar), one written maths task, Rising Star booklets will be used during the spring term.

Other homework Year 1 and 2- children are given a research project every holiday which is based on the upcoming topic.

Year 5 and 6- topic homework during the term which is based on a points system to deepen understanding and encourage independence.

Nursery and Reception Nursery - children are given a simple maths activity or game every few weeks.

They are also asked to practise writing patterns and letter formation.

Reception - practical homework to complete each week with parents or carers.

If homework is not completed children may be asked to attend homework club during lunchtime or to stay in at playtime.

Frequently asked questions

How will I know how my child has done in their homework?

Each class teacher will keep a register of who completes their homework and spelling scores. Should your teacher have concerns about how a child has performed in their homework, they will speak directly with you.

What incentive do children have for completing their homework?

Children will be rewarded for completing their homework. For example, they may be given a reward ticket or sticker, or class reward. These rewards will be managed by the class teachers.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Why will children sometimes be given extra homework?

Children who take part in specialised lessons such as booster classes may sometimes be set extra homework to reinforce the work being done.

Additionally, children who work in a one to one situation with teaching assistants will sometimes be given extra homework. In both cases, children should complete this work alongside their normal homework unless the child or the parents have been told otherwise.

How can parents find out more information about homework?

Each term the year groups will send home a Curriculum Map. This will help parents see what their children are covering each half term. This may also include any specific instructions on homework. If parents need advice on how to support their children at home then they can talk to the class teacher.

What should I do if my child is finding their homework too hard or too easy?

If the child is finding they have too much work then parents should speak to the child’s teacher or the person facilitating the lessons.

What if a child says they have received no homework?

It is unlikely that there will be many occasions when homework is not set, even if it is just to continue reading their book. If a child says they have received no homework please check with the teacher in case they have missed it being given out. There may be occasions if the teacher is away that the homework is not set but we will try to avoid that happening.

Children were asked to design a piece of homework with their family over half term showing a journey they had made, this could have been anything from a car/bus ride to visiting another country – These were some of the entries

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Communication between school and families Moor Allerton Hall prides itself on how we work together with families to help your child to get the most from their education. There is a daily opportunity to meet class staff at the cloakroom entrance and see Senior Leaders in the playground at the beginning and end of school. In reception and nursery, parents are invited to stay and play sessions every week so they can share activities in the classrooms.

At the beginning of every term, each year group produces a family link information sheet to explain what the class will be learning in their new topic.

There are regular opportunities to attend parent/carer workshops to find out the strategies we use in class for reading, writing and maths at different stages and open days are held to show examples of learning in particular subjects. Towards the end of every term, the year groups hold a parent event to celebrate the learning for that topic.

Parents and carers are always welcome to talk informally to teachers about their child’s progress, but we have two formal parent/carer consultations a year, in Autumn and Spring terms, and a written report at the end of the school year.

At least once every half term, there is a school newsletter to keep families up to date with what is happening in school. Other leaflets or letters are given out when special events are arranged and we send regular reminders using our texting service. We also use our website to let you know what is happening in school www.moorallertonhall.leeds.sch.uk We host courses for parents run by local colleges on such subjects as reading strategies, children’s behaviour and English as a second language.

We always welcome help on class outings and with classroom activities. Please let the Class Teacher know if you are able to support us.

Mrs Aston & Mrs Hall are our Learning Mentors and their role includes liaison with parents. They are always available to talk with parents about concerns.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Friends of Moor Allerton Hall (PTA)

Social and fund raising events for the benefit of the children are organised by the Friends of Moor Allerton Hall, led by Mrs O’Reilly one of our teaching assistants. Events include: • Children’s Autumn disco • Christmas Fair • Children’s Valentine’s dance • Moor Allerton Hall’s Got Talent • Summer Fair • Beach coach trip

The events are great social occasions and immensely popular. Through the PTA’s hard work funds have been raised to improve the library, provide a cycle and scooter shelter, increase the green play space, provide the new climbing wall, and subsidise residential trips. All parents are welcome to attend meetings and help support events.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Before & After School Childcare Child Seasons are our After School Club provide – the service is delivered within our school building for both Breakfast Club and After School Child Care.

Child Seasons are Ofsted registered with qualified staff in safe and friendly settings. They deliver a wide variety of educational and fun activities to all participants such as baking, arts & crafts, reading & spellings, sports etc.

Children must be registered and booked into the club in order to attend. To arrange a place for your child or to make any further enquiries you should contact Child Seasons direct on 0776 372 1942.

The club does charge for their sessions however Breakfast Club places are subsidised for children entitled to Pupil Premium (free school meals entitlement). Please ask at the school office to check if this applies to your family.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Special Educational Needs If we are concerned about your child’s progress, we will discuss it with you and explain how we propose to help. We hope you will play your part in supporting and encouraging your child. Where necessary we can seek advice from other professionals such as the Educational Psychologist or Speech Therapist. The Special Needs Co-ordinator has responsibility for overseeing provision for children with special physical needs, learning difficulties, or special emotional problems.

The school’s policy on Special Educational Needs observes the recommended Code of Practice. Children with difficulties have their needs assessed and are monitored regularly and placed on the school register. Parents are kept informed at all stages; indeed, the success of our policy depends on a strong partnership between teachers and parents.

For more information on how we make provision for a wide range of needs please see our website for a copy of our ‘Local Offer’.

DAHIT Moor Allerton Hall hosts the Local Education Authority resource provision for primary aged Deaf and hearing impaired children. We have a small group of Deaf and hearing impaired children who work alongside their classmates with the support of specialist teachers and assistants. We are a British Sign Language friendly school and hearing children will get the opportunity to learn some BSL.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL The Curriculum Across all areas of the curriculum there is a focus on the key development of basic skills. However, at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School, we believe it is essential to give children real life experiences to support their learning, so we have lots of practical opportunities, visitors and trips out of school to broaden children’s understanding.

Most of our curriculum is organised into topics where links can be made and basic skills applied to different subjects. In our fast changing world, it is impossible to predict the knowledge children will need in the future, but we do know it is essential for our children to change, adapt and learn new things with flexibility. For this reason, we teach children ‘how’ to learn not just ‘what’ to learn so they can adapt to new skills and information. Responding to challenges and being prepared to make, and learn from, mistakes is an important part of our learning philosophy. For more detail on our approach to developing our ‘learning muscles’ and developing positive mindsets, please see the separate mindset page.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL Supporting good learning mindsets The 6 big learning muscles/behaviours which help us to succeed are: Ø Ø Ø Ø Ø Ø

Resilience Reflection Enquiry Independence Collaboration Avoiding distractions

We use these learning behaviours to help us to get out of the pit and do our best learning for the future What is fixed and growth mindset?

Research shows there are two sorts of people – those who think our abilities are fixed at the level we were born with and those who think we can make our skills grow.

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL 2018 Assessment Results Reception - percentage of children reaching a ‘Good Level of Development’ Moor Allerton national Good level of development 65.1 71.5 Year 1 phonics early reading screening Moor Allerton Achieved phonic pass mark 65

national 82

End of KS1 percentages at Expected level or above Moor Allerton national Reading 62 75 Writing 50 70 Maths 63 76 Science 78 83 End of KS2 percentages at Expected level or above Moor Allerton national Reading 57 75 Writing 73 78 Maths 62 75 Combined RWM 51 64 Spelling, punctuation, grammar 72 78

PRIMAR MOOR ALLERTON HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL