Handbook 2020/21 - Scottish Borders Council
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Handbook 2020/21
2 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2018/19
Contents
Welcome
Letter from the Head Teacher 4 20
Michelle Strong, Chief Education Officer 5 20
School information 5 20
Staff 6 21
Contacting the school 6 22
School Vision, Values and Aims 7 22
Partnership working 7 22
23
Learning & Teaching
Entitlements 8
How does curriculum for 24
excellence work? 8 24
The curriculum 9
Physical education 10 Absence or other change in circumstance 24
Active schools 10 Holiday Absences 25
Religious observance 10
Home learning 10
Medical Care
Medical examinations 26
The wider curriculum 11
Medicines 26
Assessment 11
Communicable diseases 27
Summative assessment 11
Formative assessment 11 Policies & Procedures
Reporting 13 School Improvement Plan & Priorities 28
Parental consultations 13 Health and Safety 28
Learning journeys 13 Emergency closure of the school
Feedback 13 / adverse weather 28
Security 30
Support for Leaarning Use of the internet 31
Support for Learning 14
Images of pupils 31
The Educational Psychology Service 15
Policies 31
Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) 16
Promoting positive behaviour 17 Child Protection
Closing the attainment gap 17 Keeping our children and young
Home school link worker service 17 people safe in the Scottish Borders 32
Partnership with Parents Young Carers 33
Parent Council 18
Communicating with home 19
Data Protection 34
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 3
Welcome
Welcome to St Margaret’s RC primary School and to
what I hope will be a long and happy association with
your family, the aim of our handbook is to provide you
with as much information as possible, but please do
are looking for.
Our school is a denominational school open to all.
The school is situated in the middle of the Borders town
of Galashiels. We currently have three classes and a new
nursery, which opened in August 2018.
Our small numbers provide us with the opportunity to deliver a wide and
varied Curriculum within a family setting. As a Rights Respecting School we
pride ourselves in developing excellent relationships with both pupils and
parents, and view parents as key partners in our children’s education. As an
integral part of the Community, we endeavour to extend our children’s
horizons beyond this, to be the more immediate and wider Communities
including Global Citizenship.
St Margaret’s Primary is partnered with St Joseph’s RC Primary School in
Selkirk. The two schools have a shared Manager for Learning (Head teacher)
and a Principal Teacher who work across both schools. Good interschool
relationships have been built up between the two schools. Staff and pupils
also have opportunities to work and share learning experiences within their
own localities.
We look forward to welcoming you to our school.
Yours sincerely,
Moira Robertson
Manager of Learning
(Headteracher)
School roll numbers
Main School 67 ELC 22
4 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21
School Information
Letter from St Margaret’s RC
the Head of Primary School
Livingstone Place
Education Galashiels
TD1 1DQ
Dear Parent
/ Carer,
At Scottish
Borders Council T: 01896 752096
we recognise E: StMargaretsGala@scotborders.gov.uk
that every child
is unique and has individual
FB: @stmargaretsrcprimaryschool
dreams, abilities, talents and Galashiels
needs. The Children & Young
Please Note: In the first instance, Parents wishing to
People’s Service supports
contact the School should do so either in person or by
schools to ensure children’s telephone. Although there is a school electronic
needs are met, ambitions are mailbox/answer machine, these are not always manned
realised, and that every child and therefore there is no guarantee that urgent items
reaches their full potential. will be picked up/passed on timeously.
Schools are committed to
providing the very best start
by providing a high quality
and nurturing experience for
HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Moira Robertson
your child to thrive in. We are SCHOOL ROLL: 67
keen to work in partnership
with you as research tells us
SCHOOL DAY TIMES
that when parents/carers Mon - Thurs: 08.45 - 10.30
are involved in their child’s MORNING INTERVAL
education the child will do
10.45- 12.15
better. We hope this school
handbook informs parents, LUNCH
not just about how the 13.00 - 15.15
school works, but also about Fri: 08.45 - 10.45
how you can help us help
MORNING INTERVAL
your children to succeed in
school and life. 11.15 - 12.15
Yours sincerely
Michelle Strong
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 5
Staff
Manager for Learning RRICT Cover Music CST
(Headteacher) Vacancy Sally Anne Scott
Moira Robertson Support for Learning Teacher (Tues) Primary School Administrator
Principal Teacher across Jane Simmons Pernilla Nordenfors
Senior Early Years Officer Additional Needs Assistants
both schools
Jackie Thorburn Ola Hasanto/Susan Thomson
Nicola McLeod
Early Years Officer Classroom Assistant
Class Teachers Vacancy Eileen Webster
Early Years Practitioner Pupil Equity Fund ANA
P1-3 Gemma Watson Edyta Moriss Ola Hasanto
P4-6 Mrs McLeod Early Years Practitioner Playground Supervisors
Eileen Webster Ola Hasanto/Eileen Webster
P6-7 Gemma Laing Janitor
Early Years Practitioner
Principal Teacher Cover Vacancy Raymond Hume
Rachel McCarter Early Years Practitioner Catering
Early Learning and Vacancy Angela Lamont
Childcare Management P.E. CST (Fri am) Cleaning
time Cover Jorge Garcia Ann McLauchlan/Linda Gillie
Vacancy ART CST Parish Priest
Janey Lowthian Fr Nick Welsh
CONTACTING THE SCHOOL Mrs Robertson is the non-teaching Headteacher
If you have any queries or concerns please do of the 2 schools and along with the children, staff
not hesitate to get in touch with us. If you feel and parents, works to maximise the learning
an appointment with a teacher or head
teacher is required please telephone the Partnership working has a number of distinct
school office and a mutually convenient time advantages, including:
will be arranged. • Ensuring consistency of standards in
We communicate with parents in a number of learning and teaching
ways: • Providing children with access to wider
• Daily homework diaries learning experiences
• Text messages / telephone calls • Increasing the opportunities to develop staff
• Newsletters expertise and the sharing of good practice
• Learning Journeys / reports and • Maximising resources to the benefit of all
parental consultations
Clearly, as a Partner Head teacher, there will be
In our efforts to be more eco friendly we are times when Mrs Robertson is not on the premises
trying to send information home electronically of St Margaret’s RC Primary. On these occasions
where possible. Parents are asked to provide an the Principal Teacher Mrs McLeod will have
email address when enrolling their child. responsibility for the school.
PARTNERSHIP WORKING
St Margaret’s RC Primary works in partnership
with ST Joseph’s RC primary school in Selkirk.
6 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21
Vision BUILDING OUR COMMUNITY
School, parish, partners and parents
E
NU
IV
US
RT
CL
UR
IN
IN
G
Curriculum
Everyone LEARNERS Challenging
learning together Motivating
Children, staff and parents RESILIENT
Interesting
St Margaret’s - An inclusive and nurturing community where we are all inspired to achieve
and learn to believe in our unique abilities
Values
Respect Responsibility Kindness
Ready for Learning Christian Values
Aims
• Encourage an ethos of respect and equity and to value diversity across our whole school
• Promote, develop and celebrate our Catholic Faith and its culture throughout our
school community
• Provide a safe nurturing, inclusive environment which is free from bias
• Aim high and raise attainment and achievement by working in partnership with
pupils, staff, families and our community partners for the benefit of all learners
• Deliver an aspirational, challenging, creative curriculum, that encourages all our
learners to develop the skills to be flexible, independent, resilient and successful
lifelong learners in our changing world
• Offer opportunities through active and outdoor learning to build confidence, develop
risk awareness, teamwork and self-management skills
• Be highly-responsive to the circumstances of all our children and take positive and
proactive steps to ensure that potential is achieved and barriers to learning are minimised
Achieving Excellence Together
We are a Unicef UK Rights Respecting School, where children’s rights
are learned, taught, practised, respected, protected and promoted.
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 7
Learning
Xxxxxxxx & Teaching
At St Margaret’s RC PS, we foster an
environment where our pupils become
active participants in their learning.
Education should not be passive but an
exciting, fun and challenging time in
a child’s life. We aim to give children a
breadth of experiences and a hunger for
knowledge, equipping our young people
with skills they will take to the world of
work and life. A Curriculum for Excellence,
published in 2004 following the National
Debate on Education in Scotland, sets
out values, purposes and principles to effectively for learning, work and life.
enable children and young people to • All learners are entitled to experience
reach their full potential. At St Maragret’s learning and teaching that supports
we have fully embraced the guidance in them in becoming literate, numerate
these documents to improve the quality and healthy.
of learning and teaching as well as • All learners are entitled to experience
increasing attainment and achievement learning and teaching that
for all children, including those who need promotes equal opportunity and
additional support in their learning. non-discrimination based on social
circumstances, gender, race, religion,
Entitlements cultural beliefs, disability or sexual
• All learners are entitled to experience orientation.
the highest possible quality of learning • All learners are entitled to
and teaching that prepares them opportunities and encouragement to
How does Curriculum for Excellence work?
The ‘learner journey’ will be joined up • Teachers will make connections
from 3-18 to avoid gaps and overlaps between subjects, helping children
in learning and to make the most of make sense of the world.
achievements outside school. • Children will develop an understanding
• Learners will work at a pace that suits, of how to learn and how to use their
with enough challenge and support to learning, not just memorise information
stretch them. to pass tests. This will help them adapt
• Lessons will be more engaging, in an uncertain future with the ability
inspiring and relevant to everyday life. to think for themselves, make sound
8 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21
primary, secondary, at college,
workplace or community learning.
It takes a fresh approach to what,
how and where young people
learn. It aims to raise standards,
improve knowledge and develop
skills, closing the gap between the
lowest and highest performers. Ultimately
it aims to nurture young people as
successful learners, confident individuals,
effective contributors and responsible
participate to their maximum potential citizens.
and to be consulted and involved in
decisions affecting their learning. At St Margarets RC PS we aim to:
• All children are entitled to become The purpose of the curriculum is to help
successful learners, confident children and young people to become:
individuals, effective contributors • Successful learners
and responsible citizens through the • Confident individuals
values and principles of Curriculum • Responsible citizens and
for Excellence. • Effective contributors.
The Curriculum The curriculum puts the child at the
Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) is bringing centre and describes the experiences and
learning to life in the way education is outcomes for learning and its progression.
delivered for all 3-18 year olds – in ELCC, It supports learners in developing their
values and beliefs and enables them to:
• Achieve the highest possible levels of
judgements, challenge, enquire and literacy and numeracy and cognitive
find solutions. skills
• There is more focus on knowledge and • Develop skills for life and work
skills – including vital skills: literacy • Develop knowledge and understanding
and numeracy, which underpin all of society, the world and Scotland’s
learning and are critical in life. place in it
• There are changes to assessment and • Experience challenge and success
how progress is reported to give learners, so that they can develop well-informed
parents and employers better information views and act responsibly. It will encourage
on potential and achievement. them to adopt an active and healthy
lifestyle.
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 9
Physical Education Religious Observance
• At St Margaret’s PS a PE specialist As a denominational school our children
visits the school weekly to teach all learn about the beliefs, values, practices
pupils. Class teachers ensure that a and traditions of the Roman Catholic
further hour of PE is taught so every religion and to develop knowledge and
child has the expected 2 hours of PE understanding of Christianity and other
a week. world religions.
• Children are expected to wear We recognise religion as an important
appropriate clothing expression of human experience.
(See uniform) We explore and establish values such
• Primary 5 as wisdom, justice, compassion and
pupils have a integrity and establish values in their
6 week block moral development.
of swimming Through our curriculum our
lessons at children develop their beliefs,
Galashiels Pool. attitudes, moral values and practices
through reflection, discovery and critical
evaluation, and make a positive difference
ACTIVE SCHOOLS to the world by putting their beliefs and
Active Schools aims to provide more values into action.
and higher quality opportunities to Our School Chaplain, Father Welsh,
take part in sport and physical activity supports us and guides us in all these
before school, during lunchtime and matters. Our interactions with other schools
after school, and to develop effective in our town underpin the importance of
pathways between schools and sports respecting the traditions of others. Father
clubs in the local community. For visits school to say Mass or share in special
more information on Active Schools in occasions as well as providing a guiding role
your area visit to teachers as they prepare the children
www.liveborders.org.uk/active_schools for the Sacraments of Reconciliation,
Confirmation and Holy Communion.
PLEASE NOTE - The Scottish
Home learning Government has issued
Home learning activities support regulatory advice which makes
and extend classroom learning. They clear that Religious and Moral
are varied in nature and may include Education should be taught. We
reading, writing, spelling, research, actively promote inclusion in all aspects
topic work, and mathematics. Each of our Catholic ethos.
teacher will send out clear guidance
at the start of each term regarding “Parents who wish to exercise their right to
home learning. In order to promote withdraw their child from religious instruction
partnership, we encourage parents to and/or religious observance should contact the
share home learning with their child. Headteacher to arrange a meeting to discuss
alternative arrangements for your child”
10 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21The wider Learning & Teaching
curriculum
Extra curricular activities Assessment
From time-to-time, extra-curricular Assessment is a vital part of learning and
activities are available and teaching. It should be an ongoing
information about these is provided process and involve the learner making
to parents of relevant pupils. decisions about their next steps. This
The school attempts to involve takes two forms, assessment that
older children in contacts with happens at the end of a block of learning
pupils from other schools as much that checks how much a child has
as possible, thereby helping to ease understood (summative) and assessment
the settling-in process at Galashiels that is continuous (formative).
Academy. Inter-school sport is
therefore encouraged, with school Summative Assessment
pupils usually taking part in hockey, This is used to check how successful the
netball, rugby and chess events at learner has been at the end of a piece of
different times of the year. work. It is one way of gathering evidence
The school believes in the for reporting to parents or measuring
importance of broadening and attainment. It is only valid when used
enriching the child’s learning alongside evidence gathered from
experience and with this in mind, formative assessment. Standardised
arranges outings whenever suitable assessments are also used when
opportunities arise. appropriate to gather evidence on a child’s
We are committed to working progress in a curricular area. This reflects
with our community to celebrate the on their progress in comparison to a cross
culture of the Borders section of children of a similar age.
A residential experience is
offered to children in P6 and P7 on
alternate years.
Formative Assessment
Pupils know what they are learning, how
they will recognise if the learning has taken
place and what steps they can take to
bridge the gap between what they know
and need to learn by this process. It is
evident in many guises in the classroom and
is an integral part of learning and teaching.
continues over >>
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 1112 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21
Learning & Teaching
Some examples are outlined below: to the new school whether it is another
• Learning Intentions and Success primary or the secondary school the child is
Criteria transferring to.
• Wait Time
• Traffic Lights Parental Consultations
• Thumbs Up Twice yearly, in October and May, parents
• Think, Pair, Share are given the opportunity to meet staff to
• Share an Answer with the discuss their child’s progress. The school
Group/Class values these opportunities to discuss
• Two Stars and a Wish progress with parents whose attendance
• Self and peer assessment at these sessions is much appreciated, but
Assessment evidence allows teaching parents are, of course, always welcome in
staff to track the progress children school and appointments may be made at
are making and to adapt their any stage throughout the year to discuss
practice appropriately. Staff any matter of concern.
can then identify if a child is
struggling for whatever reason Learning Journeys
and needs extra support. By Children also record their learning
the same token staff identify in learning logs where they also
children making considerable have individual targets so that
progress and can consider ways they can plan their next steps
to challenge the child and ensure in learning. There will be an
progress is maintained. It is important opportunity for parents to share learning
that evidence gathered through logs at home and during open mornings/
assessment be used to improve learning afternoons.
and teaching in our school.
We are committed to involving learners Feedback
and their parents in learning and to regularly Pupils will receive feedback from their
report on progress they are making. teachers in a number of ways. Teachers
and pupils will engage in learning
Reporting conversations on a daily basis as they
Teachers assess a pupil’s progress by discuss experiences and achievements.
a number of methods which include Pupils may also receive feedback in the
observation and discussion of learning as form of written comment in their jotters
well as more standardised assessments. from their teacher and/or from peers.
Progress reports are issued in March. A Feedback will be constructive, telling
copy of the report issued to parents is held the pupil what they have done well and
in our school pupil database and treated what they should do next to continue
as confidential. When a child leaves St improvement. We encourage pupils to
Margaret’s, this electronic record is sent take note of feedback and to act on it.
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 13Support for learning
At any point in their lives children or
young people may need extra help with
their education. This may be for any
reason and at any time. This is often
referred to as additional support for
learning or having additional support
needs.
Some examples of why a child/young
person may require extra help with their
education are:
• Bereavement or family illness
• Problems at home
• Bullying
• Being particularly gifted or able
• An illness, disability or sensory
impairment
• Having English as an Additional
Language
A child/young person’s needs may last
for a short time, and the problem may
be resolved easily or their needs might
be very complex, and they may require
additional support for a number of years.
If you feel that your child needs
additional support for learning, the Parents/carers are always involved
first person to speak to is your child’s in making decisions about their child’s
teacher. You have the right to request education and we will always ask your
an assessment of your child. Within our permission before any specific referrals
school we operate a model of staged are made. While your child is receiving
intervention where support is provided in support we will regularly review your
varied ways to meet individual needs. Our child’s progress.
approach to assessment ensures that the At times, parents/carers and schools may
needs of children and young people are come into dispute. While we would always
recognised and appropriate support can hope that difficulties could be resolved at
be provided. the school level we recognise that parents
14 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21The Educational
Psychology Service
The Educational Psychology Service
(EPS) works with all SBC schools
to support children’s learning and
wellbeing.
We provide advice and training
or young people may wish to formalise to school staff on how children learn,
their concerns. To assist with this we have and advise on ways to help children
a complaints procedure and also offer who require support.
independent mediation and adjudication. It If requested by the school, we
is also possible under certain circumstances can arrange follow-up for individual
to refer the case to the Additional Support children and young people, together
Needs Tribunal for Scotland. with their families and teachers, to help
The statutory framework for support their learning, or with social
Additional Support for Learning is the or emotional issues. This is generally
Education [Additional Support For achieved by meeting the children, their
Learning] [Scotland] Acts 2004 and 2009. families and school staff, to review the
support they have already received and
agree ways in which we can all help your
child in school. In some cases, we may
For more information, agree that a psychologist will work on
you can contact: a one-to-one basis with your child to
obtain a clearer picture of how they can
(a) Enquire, the Scottish advice service best be supported.
for Additional Support for Learning. If you have any worries about your
They have a wealth of information, child, please contact their school, in
including practical guides and fact the first instance, to arrange a meeting
sheets for both parents/carers and to discuss your concerns. All schools
young people. You can find the website have access to a range of support
at www.enquire.org.uk, or call them on Services and your child’s Head Teacher
0345 123 2303. will be able to advise you about when
(b) Scottish Independent Advocacy the EPS may be able to help.
Alliance, a charitable body registered Further information about the EPS
in Scotland under registration is available on the Scottish Borders
number SC033576; www.siaa.org.uk Council website. Here you can access
(c) Scottish Child Law Centre, a downloadable leaflet for parents and
a charitable body registered in carers, which explains in more detail
Scotland under registration number how we may be able to work with you to
SCO1274. www.sclc.org.uk support your child in school.
www.scotborders.gov.uk/info Please see www.scotborders.gov.uk/EPS
/886/additional_support_needs
continues over >>
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 15Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC)
Getting It Right For Every Child (GIRFEC) • Use one consistent and equitable
is the national approach in Scotland to approach, actively share information
improving outcomes and supporting to agreed protocols and work more
the wellbeing of our children and young effectively together to improve
people by offering the right help at the outcomes for children and young
right time from the right people. people.
The GIRFEC approach aims to make it • Be clear about personal responsibility
easier for parents, children, young people to do the right thing for each child/
and the services that support them – such young person.
as early years services, schools and the • Work with children, young people and
NHS – to work together to get it right. their families, using a collaborative
approach with fewer meetings. This
Practitioners work together to support should ensure children, young people
you and your child, working across and their families give information only
organisational boundaries and putting once, and enables the development of
your child and you at the heart of decision one plan to meet all their needs.
making, ensuring we give all our children • Respond to children and young people
and young people the best possible start and take appropriate, proportionate
in life. and timely action with the minimum
GIRFEC means that everyone working of paperwork, bureaucracy and
with Scottish Borders children, young duplication.
people and their families are encouraged to: GIRFEC is part of the Children and
• Ensure children, young people, and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014 and the
their families get the GIRFEC provisions are planned
help they need when they to be fully implemented by
need it and are central August 2017. If you would like
to the process of finding any further information please
solutions. ask your child’s Headteacher.
16 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21Support for learning
Promoting Climate for Learning
At St Margaret’s we place great emphasis Closing the Attainment Gap
on your child’s personal and social As part of our work central to the
development which is fundamental aspect National Priorities for Scottish
of the education of the whole child. Education, we aim to ensure that
We aim to promote respect for all, the there is ‘equity’ of provision so that all
awareness of the needs of others; values in children may achieve their potential.
society and for your child to take increasing This means that we ‘poverty proof’
responsibility of his/her own life. school events, outings and After
Teachers have the right to expect and School activities to support families.
insist upon reasonable standards of Should any parent or carer feel they
behaviour from each pupil so that they can require financial support, or think
provide a secure and friendly learning they have an idea about how we
environment. could improve accessibility, please do
not hesitate to contact the school to
Our 3 school rules are – READY,
speak to any of the Senior Leadership
RESPECTFUL, SAFE
Team or contact by email to
The school is a rights respecting
StMargaretsGala@scotborders.gov.uk
school and has a policy based on
the principles of promoting
positive behaviour. Pupils
and Staff were involved in
Home School Link Worker
the creation of this policy
Service
and parental support is a
A Home Link Worker can meet with
appreciated in ensuring the
parents/carers, children or young
programme is effective.
people to offer advice or help with
Bullying relies on secrecy to flourish.
the sorts of things that can affect
We ask that you let us know immediately
a child’s learning. These could
of any concerns you or your child have so
be connected to a child or young
that the school can work with you to
person’s home or school life. The
resolve the problem.
service aims to provide help and
The School follows Scottish Borders
advice early and prevent something
Council Respectful Relationship Policy
small from growing into a problem. A
– further information on this can be
Headteacher can ask for this support
found at
on a parent’s/carer’s behalf.
www.scotborders.gov.uk/antibullying
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 17Partnership with parents
Parents are encouraged to visit the school and participate in activities. Any parent who
would like to help in the school should contact the Head Teacher. Information is sent
home, keeping parents informed of school events and activities as appropriate. The
eldest child in the family will be entrusted with the task of “postman”, but we would
suggest checking children’s schoolbags regularly for letters!
Parent Council By law schools have a duty to promote
The role of our Parent Council is to: parents’ involvement in children’s
• Act as a voice for all the families of education. We are very keen that parents
St Margaret’s RC Primary School. feel able to be involved in their child’s
• Work in partnership with the school education and learning, that they are
and community to give our children active participants in the life of the school
the best possible education. and they feel able to express their views
• Organise social and fundraising on school education generally.
events. Every parent who has a child at our
school is a member of the Parent Forum.
We have a supportive Parent Council The parent council is a group of parents
chaired by Mrs Newall. They organise who have chosen to represent the parent
regular events and encourage all new and forum. As a member of the Parent Forum,
existing parents to feel welcome and be each parent can expect to:-
involved. Our Parent Council • Receive information about the school
communicates and its activities
all matters relating to its work to the • Hear about what partnership with
parent body via their Facebook page or parents means in our school
newsletters. • Be invited to be involved in ways and
The Parent Council discuss matters times that suit you
relevant to the school as well as • Identify issues you want the parent
forthcoming events. They welcome council to work on with the school
parents to join them should they have any • Be asked your opinion by the parent
issues or suggestions they wish to bring
forward. They also share information
with regards to the progress the school
is making, as well as plans for the future. Communicating with home
Their aim is to promote and support the We aim to keep all parents fully informed
school, its staff and pupils. about events or developments at St
The Parent Council work hard to put Margaret’s through monthly newsletters,
on social events for families and the local school Facebook, and Groupcall. Please
community: Halloween Party, Christmas ensure the school has your up to
Fayre, Summer Fayre …
18 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21Parental Engagement
Parents and Staff are
encouraged to work in
partnership to develop
strong links between home
and school. Parents are
encouraged to support the
school in many ways by:
• Helping to escort
children on outings.
• Becoming a classroom
volunteer to assist with
council on issues relating to the paired reading, library, maths games,
school and education it provides painting etc.
• Work in partnership with staff • Bringing their expert knowledge
• Enjoy taking part in school life in in a particular field to enhance pupil
whatever way possible project work.
• Being a leader in an extra-curricular
The type of things the parent council activities out with the school day
may get involved in include: Participating in school working parties
• Supporting the work of the school and review groups
• Gathering and representing parents’
views to the Headteacher, Scottish Volunteers are required to complete a
Borders Council and Education Scotland Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG)
• Promoting contact between the form to be vetted by the Scottish Criminal
school, parents, pupils and the local Records Office if they are to work in
community school with groups of children. This is not
• Fundraising and organising events required for parents who are supporting
• Reporting to the parent forum us with walking on outings.
• Being involved in the appointment Parents frequently inform the school
of senior promoted staff. if the home routine has been upset e.g. by
hospitalisation of a member of the family,
arrival of a new baby, the death of a family
pet etc. This is an excellent idea, as school
staff can help to support your child during
date mobile number and times of change.
email address to receive We also welcome parents who would
communications. like to share their talents with the children,
Find us on Facebook: St Margaret’s RC for example, running a chess club, running
Primary School club, football etc. Please contact the
school if you wish to volunteer.
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 19How our school works
Enrolment Children Arriving/
Enrolment for Primary 1 takes place in Collected Late
November and in January for ELCC. Further • We understand that
information and enrolment forms are there are occasions where
available from the School Office. children may arrive late
for school. Any pupil arriving late should
PLEASE NOTE: St Margaret’s enter the school through the main
RC Primary school welcomes all entrance.
families to our school. We do • If any parent is delayed at the end of the
not have a set catchment area. day their child/children will be asked to
If your child is not baptised then you will wait in the main school entrance where
need to complete a placement request. parents can collect them.
This will then be forwarded to Education
and Lifelong Learning for a decision. An Visitors
admission form should also be completed • In the interests of security for all of
for the catchment school. the children only pupils are permitted
to enter the school through the pupil
Arriving & departing entrances. All parents/visitors should
The Playground Supervisor is on duty at enter the school through the main
the school from 08.30am. Parents should entrance.
ensure that pupils do not arrive before
this time. Please inform the school if it is
necessary to change your arrangements
to collect your child.
20 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21School uniform / Dress policy
The wearing of school uniform Footwear
encourages a sense of identity for • Black low-heeled shoes or black trainers.
every child to belong to the school Summer Uniform
family. We ask that parents give • White, red or blue polo shirts and
their full co-operation in ensuring grey shorts or red/ blue and white
that their child wears his/her school striped school dresses available from
uniform every day in P1-P7. When chain stores.
pupils are representing our school in Gym kit
the community school uniform must • All children should have plain dark
always be worn. shorts, a white T shirt and gym shoes.
Trainers are required for outside
Uniform activities. Outdoor shoes may not be
Grey trousers/skirt, grey pullover/ worn in the Hall for gym.
cardigan or sweatshirt, white red or NB: During gymnastics lessons it is
blue polo shirt or a white formal shirt. preferable that PE is taken in bare feet.
Grey sweatshirts with the school motif
on them, or school ties can be ordered
from Borders Embroideries’ website For health and safety reasons no
www.border-embroderies.co.uk earrings must be worn during
Outerwear PE. However, newly pierced ears
• Red rainjackets and /or can be covered up with plasters.
fleeces are also available Please discuss this with staff at the
to order from Border earliest opportunity.
Embroideries.
For details on applying for a school clothing and footwear
grant visit:www.scotborders.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals
continues over >>
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 21School transport
Where possible we actively encourage
children to walk to school. In addition
to the obvious health and environmental
benefits of walking, School meals
reducing vehicle School meals are prepared
numbers in the vicinity in our kitchen. The cost of a
of the school improves meal is £2.30 per day. Menus
safety for pedestrians. are available on the Parent Pay
website: www.parentpay.com
To help reduce food waste, we
encourage parents/carers to involve
their child in the lunch choices.
For children who do need dropped and
collected:
• Please park with care to maximise our
children’s safety
• There is no access to the school School trips
grounds for collection or dropping off Throughout the school year the children
children participate in a number of school trips
which aim to enhance their knowledge
and understanding of the world and
bring their learning to life.
These outings are subsidised as much
as possible by our school fund or parent
council but the pupils may be asked
to pay part of the cost. We ask parents
to support us in this as all outings are
Children are able to cycle/scooter to carefully planned and highly relevant to
school and use the provided bike stands. the children’s educational experience.
It is mandatory that all children wear a Parental permission will be sought
bike helmet when riding their bike or for trips requiring transport and a letter
scooter to school. There should be no giving details of the trip will be sent to
cycling in the school grounds during or parents prior to the event. Permission
after school hours. forms must be returned, fully-completed,
Also see Resilient Schools P30
22 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21How our school works
Transitions
We realise that change and
transition can be an anxious time for
some children so we have in place
arrangements to make this as smooth
as possible. Where any child requires
additional visits to Primary 1 or
Secondary 1 this will be arranged.
ELCC HUB
From August 2020, we will be opening
an Early Learning and Childcare (ELC)
Hub at St Margaret’s Primary School,
from 8 am in the morning until 6pm in
the evening, Monday to Friday for up to
50 weeks of the year. Closing for the
Christmas holidays. We already have a
very good ELC provision and look
forward to welcoming more 3 and 4 year
olds and some eligible 2 year olds to our
ELC family.
Primary 7-Secondary 1
During the Primary 7 year, pupils have a
series of visits to Galashiels Academy
by the stipulated deadline, or we are not where they mix with pupils from
permitted to take the child on that trip. other feeder primary schools to enjoy
Scottish Borders Council ensure insurances experiences in Literacy, Numeracy and
are in place. In line with Scottish Borders Health and Wellbeing. They also attend
Council procedures, Risk Assessments are the Remembrance Day assembly and
completed for all excursions. sporting events. Pupils have a 2 day visit
in June where they follow their timetable.
Opportunities Fund Galashiels Academy staff gather a range
We recognise that to take part of information on each pupil to ensure
fully in all opportunities offered that they are appropriately supported
can be costly to families. For this emotionally and academically.
reason the Parent Council kindly donate
to a fund which is available to any family
who requires financial assistance with
trips or equipment. Requests can be
made to the Headteacher and will be
managed discreetly.
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 23Terms & Attendance
Terms and Holidays 2020/21
Autumn term Friday 18 Dec 2020
Monday 10 Aug 2020 Last day of term for
Staff resume (in service
day) Winter term Summer term
Monday 19 Apr 2021
Tuesday 11 Aug 2020 Tuesday 5 Jan 2020
All resume (Good Friday
Pupils resume All resume
falls within Spring break)
Friday 9 Oct 2020 Last Thursday 11 Feb 2021
Friday 30 Apr 2021
day for pupils and staff - FEBRUARY HOLIDAY
Staff in service day
mid term holiday Last day for pupils
Monday 3 May 2021
Monday 19 Oct 2020 Friday 12 Feb 2021
May Day holiday,
All resume
school closed
Thursday 12 Nov 2020 Wednesday 17 Feb 2021
Wednesday 30 Jun 2021
Staff in service day All resume
Last day of term for
Friday 13 Nov 2020 Thursday 1 April 2021 puils and staff
Staff in service day Last day of term for
Casual holidays
Monday 30 Nov 2020 Eildon West (Galashiels)
St Andrew’s Day holiday, Wednesday 17 Feb 2021
school closed Monday 7 June 2021
Attendance Absence or Other Change in
Good attendance is vital to the success of Circumstance
our young people’s education. Statistical If your child is absent or there is any
evidence suggests that there are links change in your personal circumstances
between attendance levels and pupils’ (e.g. change of address) please inform
attainment. Society the Primary School Administrator. It is
in general, and important to let us know why a child is
parents and schools absent so that school records can be
in particular, have kept up to date. Children arriving late are
central roles to play in recorded as such. A phone call or Group
encouraging positive call message will be sent to parents if a
attitudes to education child does not arrive in school and there is
in young people. no explanation.
24 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21Holiday Absences
When a child is to be illness, bereavement or as unauthorised.
absent from school a other traumatic events” The school will
letter should be sent or where a parent’s generally not provide
to the Head Teacher employment is of the work in advance of
to explain the reason nature where school teaching, children will
for absence. It is also holiday-leave cannot be required to catch up
acceptable for a parent be accommodated (for on work missed (where
to telephone the school example emergency or appropriate) on their
to say why the child is armed services) may return to school.
absent. holidays in term time be The Scottish
Only in exceptional authorised. Office has informed
circumstances where Family holidays schools that any
it is “important to the where the school does unexplained absence
well-being and cohesion not agree that there is a should be treated as an
of the family following satisfactory reason for unauthorised absence
serious or terminal absence will be classified that is truancy.
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 25Medical Care
Minor injuries are treated by school referrals and reviews school aged children
staff with basic first aid training. Where for differing health problems from mental
professional medical treatment is health issues to obesity.
considered necessary, parents will be The Education staff use the service for
informed by telephone and offered the training for the administration of complex
opportunity to accompany their child to medicines and help and advice on general
the doctor or hospital. If neither parent nor health issues.
emergency contact can be reached, the Medicines
Head Teacher/Principal Teacher will see Occasionally children may need to take
that the child is taken for medical help; medicine during the school day. The
parents will be advised as soon as possible. only medicine that can be administered
When a child becomes unwell at school by school staff must be prescribed by a
and is unable to complete his/her studies, doctor and can only be administered on
parents will be informed and asked to completion of the ‘Parental Request for
collect the child from school. Medicine to be Administered’ by a parent/
carer. This is to safeguard the interests of
Medical Examinations both staff and pupils. It is the parent/carer’s
Each school has a named School Nurse. responsibility to hand in and collect the
The roles and responsibilities of the service medication to and from the school office.
revolve around the health needs of school The Primary School Administrator
age children and their families. will keep any medicine in the office.
The school nursing service is involved in In some cases, where children have
areas of health promotion and improvement complex medical needs, an Individual
for individuals, groups and their school Health Care plan will be devised in
communities. This may include class room collaboration with relevant health
activities and lessons, small group work, professionals, staff and parents.
presentations and 1:1 work as well as Inhalers are often used and instructions
working with education staff and families. regarding usage must be made clear to us
Topics delivered include, drugs and alcohol, and to your child. Staff are not responsible
sexual health, nutrition, promoting good for the administration of these but will help
mental health, hygiene and infection control. and support when needed.
Children and young people are seen In summer time we strongly advise that
as part of the National Child Health you send your child to school with a hat
Surveillance programme which currently and sun cream already applied. Please
involves growth and selective vision note school staff are not permitted to put
screening for School Entrants and health sunscreen onto children.
promotion work with Primary 7 children to Head lice: Please ensure that children are
facilitate transition to secondary school. checked routinely for this and treat using
Working with medical colleagues in appropriate chemical and mechanical (nit
Child Health, the nursing service takes comb) preparation.
26 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21Communicable diseases
Recommended minimum periods of exclusion from school
of children who are cases or contacts of infectious diseases:
DISEASES PERIODS OF EXCLUSION
Whooping Cough 21 days from outset
Influenza Exclusion until clinically well
Measles Until at least 5 days after the rash appears or clinically
well, whichever is longer.
Chickenpox / Scarlet Fever 5 days from onset of rash or until spots become dry –
whichever is longer.
German Measles (Rubella) 5 days from onset of rash.
Mumps Until swelling subsides
Polio/diphtheria/typhoid/ Until certified as fit to return by Community Medicine
dysentery/food poisoning/ Specialist (minimum 48 hours)
salmonella
Salmonellosis Minimum of 48 hours after clinically well.
Erysipelas/scabies/ringworm Until treatment is initiated by a GP/Nurse.
Viral Hepatitis 7 days from onset of jaundice.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Exclusion whilst clinically unwell and until spots are
healing.
Impetigo Exclusion until the sores are healed (not weeping) or
given effective antibiotics for a minimum of 48 hours.
Roseola Infantum (exanthema Exclusion until clinically well.
subitum) – viral infection
Scarlet Fever Exclusion until clinically recovered or 48 hours after
appropriate antibiotics have started.
Conjunctivitis Exclusion until symptoms are resolved or as directed
by GP.
Herpes (Zoster) No exclusion if blisters can be covered; otherwise, for 5
days after onset.
‘Slap Cheek’ (Fifth disease) Exclusion until clinically well
Vomiting, Diarrhoea and May return to school after 48 hours free from last bout
Fever of vomiting and diarrhoea.
Please could parents ensure that children do not return
to school after a period of illness until they are fully recovered
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 27Policies & Procedures School Improvement Plan Health and Safety and Priorities Emergency Procedures. If your child Every year, the school publishes a feels ill during the school day and we School Improvement Report providing feel that he/she would be better at all stakeholders with a comprehensive home, we will telephone you or your summary of the school’s work and emergency contact. Minor accidents, learners’ achievements over the last e.g. cuts, bruises, are dealt with by the year. The first part of this report provides school staff. Serious accidents are few, an overview of the school’s progress in but should one occur your child will addressing its key priorities, while the be immediately taken either to your second part gives information about, for doctor or to hospital, if necessary, and example, how well pupils are learning you or your emergency contact will be and achieving; how well the school is notified. We cannot stress enough the supporting children/young people to importance of supplying the school with develop and learn. We also publish a the relevant information we require in School Improvement Plan which outlines such a situation, i.e. your own home and the key priorities for the school during the work number and a telephone number year ahead, following due consultation of an emergency contact. with staff, pupils and We will request such information at parents. The plan the beginning of each new school year. indicates the expected impact of priorities on pupil learning, as well as providing brief information about the key tasks to be taken forward. Both the report and the plan are available in hard copy, on request. Emergency closure of the school/ the school of any changes to your contact adverse weather details. If you know that your mobile In the event of an emergency arising phone does not have a signal, or you do not whereby it is necessary to close the school, have a mobile phone, please inform the you will be contacted by ‘Group Call’ which Primary School Administrator so that she is a text message to your mobile phone. can record an alternative landline number It is the parents’ responsibility to inform to contact you on. 28 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21
Pupils will not be allowed to leave the school when buses do not run unless
school unaccompanied unless school you are certain of being able to collect
staff are satisfied that there is someone at them at the end of the school day –
home to receive them. even if the weather worsens.
4. School transportation may well be
Severe Weather delayed due to adverse weather so
In the event of severe weather we will make pupils will have to wait longer and be
every effort to keep the school open and exposed to the cold.
continue as normal. However, there may 5. Parents must ensure that their children
be situations where this is not possible and are warmly dressed just in case the
it is therefore important that you follow journey to school is very slow or even
the points below in terms of transport halted in bad weather. In normal
arrangements. circumstances, pupils should not wait
During adverse weather, school more than 15 minutes if the bus is late.
transport may be subject to cancelled In severely cold weather, this 15 minute
services, amended routes, longer journey rule need not apply.
times or alternative bus stops used. In 6. If your child travels to school on
extreme cases there may be the need to connecting services, drivers will be
cancel all school services. told to wait for each other and not to
leave any children standing in adverse
Morning Journeys weather conditions. Should the second
1. School bus drivers and operators bus not arrive children will be returned
have complete discretion to cancel or home. If the second bus does arrive but
vary school transport given any local cannot complete the journey to school
weather conditions. that driver will return children to their
2. In the case of morning journeys to homes.
the school, the driver may decide
that he/she either cannot undertake What will happen if pupils are sent
the journey or complete the trip to home early due to bad weather or other
school. The driver would then return emergency?
the children home. In the event of 7. The Head Teacher with knowledge of
adverse weather conditions, parents local weather conditions will work with
should ensure that some arrangement the Education Department to make
has been made at home to cover this decisions regarding a school closure
possibility. or to send children home early should
3. Should the school transport for your severe weather conditions threaten.
child not operate in the morning 8. Where pupils use school transportation
because of adverse weather conditions a set of emergency instructions are
but you decide to take your child to used to contact transport operators
school yourself then you are expected and other schools using the same
to collect your child either at the end transport, and parents whose children
of the school day or at the time of early
closure. Do not bring your child to continues over >>
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 29have a long way to walk home from the
drop-off points. Parents must ensure
that some arrangement has been made
to cover the possibility of pupils being
sent home early.
9. Schools routinely communicate with
parents or groups of parents using
Groupcall text messaging service.
Once the decision has been made then
Group call will be used to send updated
information regarding sending pupils
home early.
10. Parents are asked to ensure that the
school that their child attends has
an up to date and accurate mobile
telephone number on record for these
purposes. It is further suggested
that parents who may find it difficult
or not possible to have their mobile responsibility to meet him/her. Drivers
telephone switched on throughout the will not normally set children down at
day ensure that they check their phone any point significantly different from
on a regular basis for any Groupcall the usual one. The driver will use his/
messages from the school when bad her judgment in deciding whether to
weather has been forecast or where leave the child or to keep him/her on
they see deterioration in the weather. the bus. In the latter case, your child
11. If school transport is in operation would be taken to a nearby school or
and you collect your own child from place of safety. Children must follow
school during severe weather then the any instructions given to them by the
school office must be informed so that driver in any emergency and should not
transport is not delayed while staff look leave the bus to make their own way
for a missing child. home.
14. Where transport is unable to operate
Additional information to ensure the to take children home as a result
safe travel of pupils to/from school of extreme weather conditions The
12. The ultimate responsibility for the Emergency Planning Team will work
safety of children walking to and from alongside our partners to provide
bus pick-up/drop-off points rests alternative and safe transport home.
with the parents. Parents must decide
whether or not children can make Arrangements have been made with Radio
their way to meet transport in low Borders to relay information about the
temperatures. cancellation of school transportation and
13. If you feel that your child should not group call and Scottish Borders Website
walk home alone in bad weather will be used to inform parents of any
from the drop-off point it will be your important information.
30 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | Handbook 2020/21Policies & Procedures
Use of the Internet
Photographs/videos As part of the process of learning we allow our
Photographs and videos may children supervised access to the Internet and
be taken by staff in the school, email. The authority runs its own filter system
media and other parents for a to ensure that young people are not at risk from
variety of reasons for example exposure to inappropriate material.
Sports Day, celebrations of This filtering system is regularly being
achievement, charity events, upgraded. We have a policy
excursions etc. The school for use of the Internet
your child attends may wish to and a contract for
display or show photographs responsible use,
or videos taken by themselves, which we ask
in print, in various locations or parents and young
by electronic means such as a people to sign up to.
website. Likewise the media or
other parents may wish to use
the images of pupils in various
ways. We ask Security
you at the In the interests of school security external doors
time your child are kept locked while pupils are in class. Parents
enrols at one requiring access to the school should press the
of our schools entry button at the Main School Entrance or
if you are Nursery Entrance. All visitors
happy for images of your child must report to the office to
to be used in this way and we sign in the visitors book and
try to ensure you are aware of, collect a visitors badge, which
and understand, such possible should be returned at the
use of your child’s image and end of the visit.
that you have consented.
Any permission given will
remain in force during your
child’s primary and secondary Policies
schooling until you indicate There are a number of National, Education
that you wish to withdraw your Services and school policies which will provide
consent. You can do this by information on a range of issues. Further details
contacting the head teacher of all of these are available from your school or
of your school as soon as on the Scottish Borders Council website
possible. www.scotborders.gov.uk
Handbook 2020/21 | St Margaret’s RC Primary School | 31You can also read
