School Handbook Dec 2014

8/9/2019 School Handbook Dec 2014

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LARBERT HIGH SCHOOL

Information for Parents

December 2014


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LARBERT HIGH SCHOOL

HANDBOOK

CONTENTSNB: The information provided in this booklet is correct at the time of printing but may beamended at any time.

Page

Foreword from the Director of Education

Welcome from the Head Teacher

3

3

Section 1 Practical Information about the School

School Contact Details

Communicating with the School

School Policies

7

Section 2 Parental Involvement in the School

School Ethos

20

Section 3 School Curriculum

Assessment and Reporting your Childs Progress

28

Section 4 Support for Pupils

TransitionsMoving to a New School or Leaving School

36

Section 5 School Improvement 41

Section 6 Larbert High School Staff

A list of senior staff, pastoral staff, teaching staff and support staff.

43

Section 7 Important Dates for your Dairy

A list of term dates

49

Section 8 Statistical Returns 54

Section 9 Notes 57


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A Foreword from the Joint Directors of Education

Session 2015-16

This handbook contains a range of information about your childs school which will be ofinterest to you and your child. It offers an insight into the life and ethos of the school andalso offers advice and assistance which you may find helpful in supporting and gettinginvolved in your childs education.

Falkirk Council is keen to work with parents, not only to allow you a greater opportunity tocontribute to your childs education, but also to encourage you to play a greater role in thelife of the school as a whole. We offer a number of opportunities when you will be able tomake your voice heard in relation to your own childs education, your local school, and theEducation service as a whole.

Throughout each school year there will be opportunities for you to discuss your childsprogress with his/her teacher. There will also be Council-wide events for parents organisedby the Education service. These events are spread across the school year and eachfocuses on a particular theme. The events are open to all parents and they are alsoattended, wherever possible, by the Education Portfolio Holder as well as members of theServices Management Team. Each session offers parents an opportunity to ask questionsabout aspects of their childs education. Dates for these events will be issued by your childsschool and we hope you will be able to come along and hear about, and contribute to, ourplans for Education in Falkirk.

Parental involvement in the decision making process and performance monitoring are now,more than ever, an integral part of school life and will continue to become even moretransparent in future years. We look forward to developing that partnership with yoursupport.

We are pleased to introduce this handbook for session 2015/16 and trust it will provide youwith all the relevant information you may need concerning your childs school. If you haveany queries regarding the contents of the handbook please contact the Head Teacher ofyour childs school in the first instance who will be happy to offer any clarification required.

Nigel Fletcher and Gary GreenhornJoint Directors of EducationFalkirk Council


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Curriculum for Excellence - Learning to Achieve

Learning Entitlements

In addition to the entitlements of Curriculum for Excellence our education provision will reflectlocal needs and circumstances. Therefore, at different stages of their education, our learnerswill have opportunities to:

Link aspects of their learning to the local environment and its heritage

Participate on a residential experience where possible

Participate in arts, sports and cultural events

Participate in environmental projects

Participate in a community project

Participate in outdoor learning experiences

Access appropriate technology

Be consulted on and contribute to the decision making process in school

Experience work based learning

Develop collaborative, social, leadership and other life skills

Access academic and vocational learning experiences

Access learning experiences designed and / or delivered by relevant partners

Reflect upon and be proactive in planning and making choices about their own learning

Engage with learners in other countries and demonstrate knowledge of their culture.

How can you help?By law, you must make sure your child receives education.

As a parent, you can help your child by:

making sure your child goes to school regularly;

encouraging and supporting your child with any homework given;

showing that you are interested in how your child is getting on at school;

encouraging your child to respect the school and the whole school community; and

being involved in the school.

Throughout this handbook the term parent has the meaning attributed in the Standards in Scotland'sSchools Act 2000 and the Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006. This includesgrandparents, carer or anyone else who has parental responsibility for the child.


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Welcome from the Head Teacher

Welcome to the Larbert High School Handbook.

This handbook offers an introduction to our school and a general overview of the education your childwill be getting at school.

If you have any questions, or would like any further information on any aspect of this handbook or theeducation of your child, please do not hesitate to contact me.

To make our handbook easy to use Ive divided the information into five different sections :-

Section OnePractical Information about the School

This section provides you with some background information on our school (and our nursery). It tellsyou how our school day and school year are made up and how to contact the school if, for example,your child is ill.

This section deals with the practical aspects of your childs attendance at our school. It providesdetails on such things as:

travelling to and from school

school meals and milk

financial assistance with school clothing, transport and school meals

school closures in an emergency or unexpectedly for any reason

general supervision available for your child in the morning and at lunchtime

wet weather details

how the school communicates with parents

how to complain if you are not happy about something.

As with any organisation, to ensure smooth running and appropriate maintenance of standards, arange of procedures and policies have to be implemented within our school.

This section gives an overview of the policies the school has in place. If you would like to see a fullcopy of these policies or to discuss them in more detail, please contact me. Most of these policies areavailable on the school websitewww.larberthigh.com

Homework Policy

Clothing or uniform (PE Clothing)

Health Statement / medicines

Section TwoParental Involvement in the School

Parental involvement is very important as we know it helps children do better in school.This section contains information about how parents can be involved in supporting learning at homeas part of a homeschool partnership.

You can also find out more about the ethos of the school, what our values are and our aspirations forour pupils including how we celebrate pupil success, and links we have with partner organisations andthe wider local, national and international community.

Lastly, it includes information on our Parent Council, how to contact them and how parents can getinvolved in the life and work of the school.


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Section ThreeSchool Curriculum

This section describes how the curriculum is planned and delivered in the school including the rangeof subjects and subject areas your child will be learning. It also includes information on how pupilsdevelop skills for learning, life and work, including literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing in andout of the classroom.

As well as giving you information about the statutory curriculum requirements we have includeddetails on sports and outdoor activities available to pupils and the range of facilities available withinthe school.

Details of how parents will be informed about sensitive aspects of learning e.g. relationships, sexualhealth, parenthood and drugs awareness are included as well as information about religiousinstruction and observance and arrangements for parents who wish to exercise their right to withdrawtheir child.

This handbook also tells you how we will report on your childs progress and what written reports maybe sent out to parents.

Section FourSupport for Pupils

This section gives information about how pupils additional support needs will be identified andaddressed and the types of specialist services provided within our school. This handbook alsoexplains who to contact for more information if you think your child has additional support needs.

This section also gives information about transitionfrom primary school to secondary schoolwhatthe arrangements are and contact details of the catchment high school to which our pupils normallytransfer. There are also details about making a placing request to another school.

Section FiveSchool Improvement

The section gives you an overview of the main achievements of the school within the last 12 monthsand performance information relating to literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing.

Whilst Falkirk Council is happy to provide this information we do have some reservations that thepublication of raw statistics, without any kind of informed qualification, can be misleading to thereader. In particular, they should not be construed as offering an indication of the quality of educationprovided in any of our schools.

We have also shown where you can get further information about our plans for the next three years toimprove our performance and how the school will involve parents in that improvement.

I hope you find all of the above information helpful and self-explanatory. If you have any queries about

any of the information contained in this handbook, or indeed about any aspect of our school, pleasedo not hesitate to contact me.

Jon ReidRectorLarbert High School

The information in this school handbook is considered to be correct at the time of publication (Dec2014), however, it is possible that there may be some inaccuracy by the start of the school term in

August 2015.


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Section 1: PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Contact Details

Jon Reid, RectorLarbert High SchoolCarrongrange Avenue, Stenhousemuir, Larbert FK5 3BL

Tel: 01324 554233Fax: 01324 503551Email: [email protected]: www.larberthigh.comTwitter: @LarbertHigh

About the SchoolLarbert High School is a six year, non-denominational comprehensive school, providing the full range ofsecondary education for both girls and boys.

The schools associated primaries are:1. Airth 5. Ladeside2. Carron 6. Larbert Village3. Carronshore 7. Stenhousemuir

4. Kinnaird

The projected roll of the school for session 2015-2016 totals 1746 pupils distributed as follows:

S1 347 S4 323S2 262 S5 305S3 277 S6 232

Information about enrolment is normally channelled through our associated primary schools with whomwe have very regular contacts.

Parents of children out with the school catchment area wishing to enrol their child at Larbert High Schoolshould, in the first instance, apply to Falkirk Councils Education Services by contacting JenniferAnderson on 01324 506608or writing to the address shown below for a placing request form.

The school mottoOptimum sequi (follow the best course in all things)lies at the heart of all that we doand our aims reflect the values and educational philosophy of our school.

Achieving Success:in lessons; in clubs and activities; personally and socially

Learning for Life: enjoy learning; keep learning; share learning

Fairness & Equality: include everyone; value our differences; opportunities for al

Responsible Citizenship:respect ourselves and others; play our part in the community.

What are the names of Years and Houses?In transferring from primary school, your child will join Larbert High School for the First Year of his/hersecondary education and will, therefore, be in S1.

There are three Houses, Lewis, Harris and Skye, each one with a Head of House who is a PrincipalTeacher of Guidance. Each House has a team of Guidance Teachers, and each pupil will be linked to aHouse and Guidance Teacher for Pastoral Support.

Will my child be allocated to a House?Each child is allocated to a Houseand to a Form Class. This allocation will be based on a number offactors, including siblings already at the school and the advice of the primary school. PrincipalTeachers (Guidance), known as House Teachershave the responsibility for overseeing your childspersonal, pastoral, social and academic progress. House teachers should be contacted to discussany concerns and are pleased to discuss progress with parents. The Depute Rectors are also linkedto Houses. Our Form Classes are Vertical Form Classes, which means that they are composed ofpupils in all year groups and it is likely that your child will be in the same class as their sibling(s).
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.larberthigh.com/http://www.larberthigh.com/mailto:[email protected]


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In which education authority is Larbert High School?

Larbert High School falls within Falkirk Councils Education Services.

Director of Education Services: Mr Nigel Fletcher/Mr Gary Greenhorn

Authority Address: Education Services, Falkirk CouncilSealock House2 Inchyra RoadGRANGEMOUTH

FK3 9XB

Organisation of the School Day

Monday Wednesday Friday Tuesday Thursday

08.4009.30

Period 1 Period 1 Period 1 08.4009.30 Period 1 Period1

09.3010.20

Period 2 Period 2 Period 2 09.3010.20 Period 2 Period 2

10.2010.35

Interval Interval Interval 10.2010.35 Interval Interval

10.3510.45

Form Form Form 10.35 - 11.25 Period 3 Period 3

10.4511.35


11.3512.25


12.2513.10

Lunch Lunch Lunch 13.0513.50 Lunch Lunch

13.1014.00

Period 5 Period 5 Period 5 13.5014.00 Form Form

14.0014.50


14.5015.40 Period 7 Period 7


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Registration and enrolment

The date for registration of new school entrants is advertised in all local nurseries, the local press andon the councils website www.falkirk.gov.uk. It is normally in January each year. Pupils should beregistered in only one school for their catchment area. Parents will be provided with information aboutthe school, when they register their child.

Parents who want to send their child to a school other than the catchment school must make aplacing request. Please refer to section four of this handbook for more information on placingrequests.

Parents of pupils who have moved into the catchment area or, who wish their child to transfer to theschool, should contact the school office for information.

Attendance and absenceIt is the responsibility of parents of a child of school age to make sure that their child is educated.Most do this by sending their child to school regularly. Attendance is recorded twice a day, morningand afternoon.

Absence from school is recorded as authorised, that is approved by the education authority, or asunauthorised, that is unexplained by the parent (truancy).Please let the school know by letter or phone if your child is likely to be absent for some time, andgive your child a note on his or her return to school, confirming the reason for absence. If there is noexplanation from a childs parents / carers, the absence will be regarded as unauthorised.Please make every effort to avoid family holidays during term time as this disrupts your childseducation and reduces learning time. The head teacher can approve absence from school for a familyholiday in certain extreme situations, for example, in traumatic domestic circumstances where theholiday would improve the cohesion and wellbeing of the family. Please discuss your plans with thehead teacher before the holiday. If the head teacher does not give permission before the holiday, itwill be recorded as unauthorised absence. The head teacher may also exercise discretion when aparent can prove that work commitments make a family holiday impossible during school holidaytimes. Normally, your employer will need to provide evidence of your work commitments. Absenceapproved by the head teacher on this basis is regarded as authorised absence.Parents from minority ethnic religious communities may request that their children be permitted to beabsent from school to celebrate recognised religious events. Absence approved by the head teacheron this basis is regarded as authorised absence. Extended leave can also be granted on request forfamilies returning to their country of origin for cultural or care reasons.

A supportive approach is taken to unexplained absence. However the education authority has legalpowers to write to, interview or prosecute parents, or refer pupils to the Reporter to the ChildrensPanel, if necessary.When it is realised that a child is likely to be off school for any length of time, it would be helpful ifparents would telephone the school on01324 554233 to explain this. Should your child fail to arriveat school in the morning you will be notified by text message at around 9.30am by our automatedabsence alert system. If you do not use a mobile phone, we can contact you with a voice message.However, when parents inform us in advance of an absence, text messages will not be sent.We continue to highlight the importance of good attendance and for this reason every year we presentgold, silver and bronze certificates for perfect to very good attendance. Year on year, the number ofpupils winning an attendance award increases. The more pupils strive for an award, the moreconvinced we are that we are getting the message across. The more awards there are, the happiereveryone is! As well as individual certificates, there are class awards for best attendance, whichstimulates friendly rivalry between classes and Houses.

You are expected to:

Attend school regularly

ring an absence note on the dayof your return

Bring a note requesting any additional leave of absence: Medical requests to the MedicalAuxiliary; other requests to your Depute Rector

Stay in school unless given permission to leave
http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/


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School Uniform

Parents are asked to co-operate with the school in encouraging the wearing of the school uniform.

The uniform was agreed in consultation with parents, pupils, staff and the Parent Council. Itincorporates a range of popular items of dress, e.g. sweatshirts, T-shirts.

Wearing school uniform contributes to a positive school ethos and helps avoid discrimination andreduces peer pressure to wear expensive designer clothing.

Items and costs to be completed by the school, also if and when the clothes can be purchased fromthe school. You may wish to add a link here to school uniform information on the school website.

A schools reputation can also be enhanced in the local community by the wearing of school uniformand school security will be improved as it will be easier to identify intruders.

The appropriate clothing and footwear for PE is a T-shirt, shorts and gym shoes with non-markingsoles. These are necessary for health and safety reasons and your co-operation is requested toensure that pupils are equipped to participate in the PE lessons.Please ensure that all items of clothing are clearly labelled, particularly ties, sweat shirts and PE

equipment, which are often lost. A protective apron or an old shirt should be worn for art and craftactivities. Please help the school and the education authority by making sure that pupils do not bringvaluable or expensive items of clothing to school.In certain circumstances, appropriate clothing will be necessary for school activities for safetyreasons, e.g. in games areas, science laboratories and technical workshops; this extends to thewearing of suitable footwear and even, on occasion, to the length of pupils hair and the wearing of

jewellery and earrings.Offensive clothing such as T-shirts or other items painted with obscene language or illustrations arenot permitted. Football colours are also inappropriate as they can lead to incidents of rivalry.If you have any queries regarding the schools dress code, please contact the Headteacher.

School MealsPrimary and Secondary Menus offer healthy and tasty meal options whilst reflecting the ScottishGovernment food and drink legal requirements for School Lunches. Special diets and allergies areusually accommodated subject to consultation with the parent/guardian and the regional dietician.Primary School Menus provide 3 daily choices with High Schools providing a range of plated meals,pasta, meal deals and salad boxes. Meal prices are reviewed annually. Please contact the school tobe advised of the current price.Some families may be eligible to apply to Falkirk Council for provision of free school meals.It is anticipated that in January 2015, all P1-3 will be entitles to a free meal. Further details pleasecontact your childs school

Lunch ArrangementsParents should be aware that while pupils are encouraged to stay in the school or its grounds at

lunchtime, there is no way of ensuring that they do so. In general, pupils are free to leave the schoolgrounds at lunchtime (except S1 until the October break), and some go along to the village topurchase their lunch or simply to walk around. Others go home for lunch.Parents who do not wish their children to leave the grounds at lunchtime should ensure that they aregiven clear instructions to remain in school. This information should also be conveyed to theappropriate Guidance Teacher. While we cannot ensure that pupils will not leave the grounds, we willendeavour to reinforce parents wishes.The dining-hall at Larbert High School is called "The Hub" and is run by Chartwells. There is a goodrange of snacks and full meals available. We also have a tea/coffee Pod and Pasta Bar which isextremely popular with all year groups. The number of pupils regularly having their lunch in schoolhas trebled since the Hub was opened and the 'swipe card' system is popular and ensures a fastservice for pupils.

An area is also set aside for pupils who wish to bring packed lunches.


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School helpers are employed to assist with supervision in the dining hall; pupils must obey theirinstructions. Members of the senior staff, assisted by prefects, supervise the lunch queues. Priority forentry is given on a year group rota.

Free School Meals and Clothing Grants

Some families may be eligible to apply to Falkirk Council for free school meals and / or a paymenttowards the cost of footwear and clothing. The level of grant is set by the council. The applicationprocess is detailed below.Application Forms for Clothing Grant and Free School Meals including eligibility criteria areavailable from the school, Falkirk One Stop Shops, Registrars or can be downloaded from the FalkirkCouncil website www.falkirk.gov.uk. The forms have to be completed by the parent / carer andevidence of benefits received may have to be provided. Please note that an application has to bemade for each school year.More information or help with completion of the form can be obtained from the Councils Advice andInformation helpline on 01324 590599.

Travel to and from SchoolParents should remind their child(ren) that, in the interests of safety, good behaviour is expected fromall pupils travelling on school transport.Children should be reminded by parents that, wherever possible, they should only cross the roadwhere there is a crossing patrol and should exercise care on walking to and from school.Parents are requested, when dropping off/collecting children from school, that they do not park nearthe pedestrian exit or in any location which causes an obstruction and they take care not to restrict theview of the school crossing patrol.

Transport for Primary and Secondary School Children (ExcludingPlacing Requests)Free school transport is provided to and from your home address to your childs catchment school ifthey are distance entitled. Falkirk Council operate a more generous distance entitlement policy than

required by law.Distance entitled children are:

All children under 8 years of age who live one mile or over from their catchment school by thenearest available safe walking route.

All children over 8 years of age who live two miles or over from their catchment school by thenearest available safe walking route.

Concessions, details of times of operation, criteria and application forms are available from theTransport Planning Unit within Falkirk Council. Tel: 01324 504724 / 504966.

Pickup pointsWhere home to school transport is provided, some pupils will require to walk a reasonable distancefrom home to the transport pick-up point but this should not exceed the authoritys agreed limit of 1mile.It is the parent's responsibility to make sure that their child arrives at the pickup point on time andbehaves in a safe and acceptable manner while boarding, travelling in and leaving the vehicle.Children who misbehave can lose their right to home to school transport.

General SupervisionBefore school begins supervision is very limited, therefore pupils should not arrive at school until asnear to the school start time as possible.During intervals school helpers supervise the children. In addition the Head teacher and Janitor areon call to cope with any difficulties which may arise. There is always access to the building and thechildren are made aware of this.


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School securityFalkirk Council has introduced procedures to ensure the safety and security of pupils and staff whenattending or working in a school. We use a number of security measures including a visitors book,badges and escorts, while visitors are within the school building. Normally, anyone calling at a schoolfor any reason will be asked to report to the school office. The school staff then can make thenecessary arrangements for the visit.

Wet Weather ArrangementsIn wet weather pupils are allowed into school during breaks and at lunchtime. However, assupervision during these periods is limited, it is especially important that they exercise goodbehaviour. Children having school lunches may remain in school during wet weather but, againsupervision is limited.

Parents MeetingsAll of our schools offer opportunities for parents to discuss their child's progress with teachers througharranged meetings. Although arrangements vary from school to school, all parents will be advised ofat least once per session when these meetings take place. Over and above these set meetings,

parents are welcome to contact the school at any time to ask for information or for an interview.Please see section two of this handbook for more details on home / school partnership.

Communication with HomeFrom time to time your child will bring home important and routine communications from the school.Parents are encouraged to check their childs schoolbag for these communications. Enquiries of anykind should be addressed to the Head Teacher in the first instance.

Unexpected ClosuresMost closures will be notified to you in writing, in advance, but there are occasions when the childrenmay be dismissed early without warning, e.g. as a result of power cuts or severe weather. In the

event of an early school closure please ensure that your child knows where to go if you are notusually at home during the day. To help us keep you informed it is important that you make sure wehave the most up to date emergency contact information for your family. We will keep in touch usingtext messaging, via the Falkirk Council website or via information broadcast on Central FM.

If an early closure is required at any time, the school will send a text to parents; update the schoolwebsite (www.larberthigh.com)and inform Central FM. Any pupils who are not able to go to theirown home or to the home of a relative or friend according to the emergency arrangements youhave made for them, will be held in school until the end of the school day. Information will also berelayed via Twitter. You can follow Larbert High School on Twitter: @LarbertHigh.

Mobile phones/Other Devices

The use of technology to enhance learning and teaching develops pupils skills for learning, life andwork. Technology plays a major role in the lives of our pupils social activities and working life.

There is a national expectation that schools will provide opportunities to appl, reinforce and extendICT skills within and across curriculum areas to equip children and young people with the learning andemployability skills required for the 21st century. [Curriculum for Excellence, Principles and Practice paper for Technologies]

To support learning anytime and anywhere across the school, all pupils and staff haveaccess to the school Wi-Fi network. This enables pupils and staff to access the internet onany Wi-Fi enabled device. In order to give pupils as many opportunities as possible to usetechnology, the school allows pupils to use their own personal electronic device

(smartphone,notebook,iPad, etc) within the classroom. This Bring Your Own DevicePolicy is intended to support learning anytime, anywhere.
http://www.larberthigh.com/http://www.larberthigh.com/http://www.larberthigh.com/http://robotcloud.net/sample-byod-user-policy/http://robotcloud.net/sample-byod-user-policy/http://www.larberthigh.com/


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In order for pupils to use the school Wi-Fi network the following guidelines must be followed:

All pupils must follow Falkirk Councils ICT Acceptable Use Policy. This was sent to all

parent/carers and copies are available in school and on the website.

Pupils who do not follow the Acceptable Use Policy will have their access to the school

network removed.

To support learning and teaching, the following procedures will be followed:

The teacher directs pupils about the use of any electronic device in each lesson. The teacher

will instruct pupils in the following 3 ways for using devices and this will be visibly colour

coded at the front of every classroom:

ONdevices on and ready on desks for use in the lesson - GREEN

STAND BYdevices available for use when instructedAMBER

OFFdevices off and out of sight, not being used in the lessonRED

The use of all electronic devices is subject to the same policies and procedures for behaviour

management across the school. Pupils who do not follow this policy will be disciplined in line

with the schools positive behaviour/discipline policy.

If a pupil uses their own electronic device in an inappropriate way or does not follow the instruction ofthe teacher, the following procedures will apply:

The member of staff will give 1 reminder to the pupil asking them to follow the school

procedure.

If this does not happen, then the electronic device will be confiscated and passed to the

school office for safe keeping. It can be collected by the pupil at the end of the day and a

letter will be sent home.

If the electronic device is confiscated for a second time, the device will not be returned at the

end of the day. A letter will be sent home asking the parent/carer to come to the school to

collect it from the Depute Head Teacher.

Photographing or recording of sound or images of staff, other pupils or visitors to the school is not allowedat any time within the school campus or on school transport.

Devices may be confiscated where these rules are broken.

Any recordings made on school premises or school transport found on confiscated phones will have to bedeleted on their return.

Any photographs or recordings of staff in any situation, whether taken on school premises or elsewhere,found on confiscated phones will have to be deleted from phones on their return.

An increasing range and variety of mobile phones possess the ability to access the Internet and to use

Bluetooth technology to communicate. These technologies provide unparalleled sophistication andcomplexity which can provide access to a wealth of online resources and possibilities. Pupils and parents

STAND BY

ON

OFF


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should be aware that this also leaves pupils open to dangers such as Cyberbullying, grooming andaccess to inappropriate material. Reference should be made to Falkirks bullying policy for furtherguidance in this area.

Staff should not delete photographs or recordings from confiscated mobile phones.

When staff confiscate mobile phones or other devices they should ensure that these are retained in a

safe place that cannot be accessed by others. This may be a lockable drawer or cupboard, a base areaor a delegated area in the school office. Confiscated mobile phones should normally be passed to theschool office or senior member of staff as soon as possible after confiscation.

Legal aspects

There are a number of aspects of the law that may apply to mobile phone/device misuse andthe responses to that misuse. In the most serious cases there may be a crime involved anincident that is being filmed might be an assault or breach of the peace. The misuse of amobile phone/device might be an offence under the Communications Act 2003, if it involvesa call or message that is grossly offensive or is of an indecent, obscene or menacingcharacter; and, the distribution of certain pornography might be an offence under the CivicGovernment (Scotland) Act 1982.

In situations which are so serious that a school might call in the police it is for the police, notthe school, to consider what, if any, criminal offence may apply.

These restrictions on use apply equally during any school activity that takes place off campus.Pupils breaking the rules will be disciplined in line with the schools positive behaviour or discipline policy.

ICT Acceptable Use PolicyFalkirk Council Education Services recognises that access to Information and CommunicationsTechnology (ICT) equipment and Services helps young people to learn and develop skills that willprepare them for work, life and citizenship in the 21st Century.To support this, we provide resources for pupils and staff to use. The Education Services ICT

Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) outlines the guidelines and behaviours that pupils are expected to followwhen using school equipment or when using personally-owned mobile devices in Falkirk Councilestablishments. The purpose of this is to protect both the Councils network and equipment a nd toprotect young people online. The ICT Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) will be issued by the school forboth parent(s) and pupil(s) to sign

EqualityThe Council is required to work towards advancing equality of opportunity for all people and to fostergood relations between people. The Council is committed to eliminating discrimination on the groundsof race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, religion/belief, age, marriage or civil partnership,

transgender status or pregnancy/maternity.

Education Services has a range of policies and procedures to address equalities issues specific toeducation to enable us to fulfil these duties. All schools have copies of these policies. The Servicealso supports the MAHRS Strategy and all education establishments have a responsibility to reportincidents of identity-based bullying

English as an Additional LanguageThe Council provides a support service of teachers of English as an additional language. Theteachers visit schools to work with those bilingual pupils who require assistance in developing Englishlanguage skills

Compliments, Suggestions and Complaints Procedure

Falkirk Council Education Services is keen that you should be completely satisfied about your child'seducation and we encourage feedback on our services from parents, pupils and members of thepublic. We are interested in feedback of all kinds, whether it be compliments, suggestions or


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complaints. Compliments and Suggestions can be giving to schools by writing, by email, telephone orin person.

If you have a complaint about the school, please let us know. It is better that concerns are sharedopenly and resolved quickly, rather than being allowed to damage the relationship between home andschool. We will deal with the issue confidentially and as quickly as possible. If we have made a

mistake we will apologise and try to put things right.

There are some things which you should take note of in relation to making a complaint:

Parents must first consult the school regarding their concerns. Although we try to respond asquickly as possible, issues can sometimes be complex and we will need time to investigatethem.

The Councils complaints handling procedure sets a time limit of six months from when thecustomer first knew of the problem, within which time we can be asked to consider thecomplaint, unless there are special circumstances for considering complaints beyond thistime. The time limit will be applied with discretion.

If your complaint has not been satisfactorily resolved at this first stage, it maybe eligible forconsideration at the second stage (by Education Services, Sealock House). Complaints willnot be considered by Education Services unless all options have been exhausted by the

school to resolve the matter.

Complaints can be put in writing, on a complaint form, by telephone or e-mail to: ComplaintsOfficer, Sealock House, Education Services, Falkirk Council,

2 Inchyra Road, Grangemouth, FK3 9XB. Tel: 01324 506694. E-mail:[email protected]

If you remain dissatisfied after this further investigation, you can raise the matter with theScottish Public Services Ombudsman.

You should also be aware that you have the right to raise concerns with your local Councillor,MSP or MP.

Other School PoliciesOther school policies are available on our website, which is frequently updated.

School Health ServiceNHS Forth Valley has a statutory obligation to provide a health service for all school age children inFalkirk District. The aim of the service is to make sure that all children, throughout their school years,are in the best possible health to benefit from their education

The Public Health Nursing Team for Schools offer health assessments and reviews, health screeningand deliver school based immunisation programmes. The team comprises of Public Health Nurses

(Specialist Practitioner), Registered Nurses and Healthcare Assistants who are based in a localHealth Centre and work over a number of schools in the area.

Pupils, parents/carers can request a health appointment at any time. Other health professionals andteaching staff can also request a health appointment for the child or young person with parental andor young persons consent.

Health reviews will take place as necessary involving a parent questionnaire, a check of healthrecords and if required screening of growth and vision.

Health screening All children in primary one and at other selected stages will be seen tohave their growth and vision checked

ImmunisationsSecondary school pupils are offered immunisations. At the appropriate time

information booklets and consent forms will be issued.
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Health Education The Public Health Nursing Team has an important role in encouraginghealth lifestyles, working closely with teaching staff, pupils, parents/carers and thecommunity.

The School Doctor (Community Paediatrician) may also offer appointments to children who have asignificant ongoing medical or developmental condition affecting their education. School staff and

parents can request a consultation with the School Doctor at any time.

The School Health Service can be contacted on01786 434059The Public Dental Service carries out dental inspections in Primary 1 and Primary 7 and can helpaccess dental services for those children who are not registered with a Dentist.

Infectious DiseasesColds, flu and gastroenteritis are the most common infections affecting children of school age. It isimportant that you keep your child off school in the early stages of flu and while they still havediarrhoea.

It is also important that your child understands how to prevent picking up and spreading suchinfections. You will be able to get further advice about good health from staff in your Health Centre orGP Practice.

For advice about early detection and treatment for other infectious diseases eg chickenpox andmumps, please consult your GP or Nurse.

Head LiceHead lice are spread through head to head contact at home, while playing or in school.

Regular wet combing of your childs hair using a head lice detection comb is the best way to catch thispossible problem at an early stage.

The only way to be sure that your child has head lice is to find a live louse. If you find live lice, get thecorrect lotion from your doctor, health visitor or pharmacist. Shampoos and other treatments are noteffective.

One treatment is two applications of the treatment lotion, seven days apart. If this is not followed thenre-infection is likely.

Advise family members and close friends that your child has head lice and that they should checktheir own hair. Only treat if live lice are found. Dont be shy about advising others of this possibleproblem because you would likely tell family and friends about other infections which might affectthem.

Regular wet combing of your childs hair with the head lice detector comb is the best protection as itallows you to detect the condition and treat it speedily.

Further advice can be obtained from the Health Board head lice leaflet which is available in allschools and health centres. Education Services leaflet Frequently Asked Questions, which is alsoavailable in schools.

If you would like to discuss your particular concerns, you could speak to:Infection Control ServiceForth Valley Royal HospitalStirling RoadLarbertFK5 4WR

01324 567490 / 01324 567679


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ClinicsFrom time to time some children are asked to attend clinics (eye clinics, dentist, doctor, etc). Pleaseinform the school of these visits and arrange for your child to be collected if he/she must leave schoolto attend the clinic.No child will be allowed away from school during school hours unless accompanied by a responsibleadult or unless written permission to do so has been given by the parent.

Protecting Children and Young PeopleEducation Services have an important role in identifying children who have been abused or are at riskof being abused.Falkirk Council has clear procedures for all staff to follow. Head teachers or designated member ofstaff are instructed to notify Falkirk Council and Social Work Services when a member of staff has asuspicion that a child might have been abused or be at risk of abuse.Social Work Services will make a decision on whether or not an investigation is necessary and willadvise accordingly.

Medicine administrationThe administration of medicines prescribed by a family doctor is undertaken at the discretion of theHead teacher but schools are generally happy to co-operate with parents in doing so. In order tosafeguard the health and safety of children, procedures are drawn up by Falkirk Council EducationServices.

When a child is prescribed medication by a doctor or a dentist and parents require the school toadminister this, the relevant request Form should be completed. The MED 1 Form requires parents todeliver the medication to schools for administration by school staff. MED 4 Form permits pupils tocarry and administer medication themselves eg inhalers. Prescribed medication should be clearlymarked with your childs name, the date prescribed, how often it has to be taken and for how long.Falkirk Council liability insurance does not provide indemnity to employees for administering non-prescribed medicines.

For medical appointments during school hours, please notify the school by letter and collect your childfrom the school.

Illness or accidents during schoolAny pupil who feels unwell during the school day may be sent by the class teacher to the medicalauxiliary. If it is necessary, the medical auxiliary will contact the parent to arrange for the child to betaken home. No pupil will be sent home without prior contact with the home. It is essential for parentsor guardians to give the school up-to-date information on additional contact numbers, should anemergency arise.

Information about medical conditions of which parents would like staff to be informed should bepassed to the childs Guidance teacher, in the first instance.

Approved medical or dental appointments must be notified to the medical auxiliary at least one daybefore the appointment.


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Insurance Cover for School Children

Public Liability

Personal Injury

Falkirk Council has in force a Public Liability policy which operates in respect ofclaims for injury to any school child whilst in the control of the Council or employees,but the onus is on the claimant to prove that the Council have been negligent.

Pupils Property

Each session, unfortunately but inevitably, pupils property is lost, damaged or stolenfrom school. Parents are therefore discouraged from allowing their children to carryexpensive items of personal belongings to the school and are reminded that astandard household policy can be extended to provide a degree of cover for personalitems taken away from the home.

Any claim made for loss or damage to the property left in the care of the school willhave to be submitted, in the first instance to Education Services, and the claim willonly be settled if it is shown that the Council can be held legally liable for the loss.

Personal Accident CoverEducational Excursions

The Council has in force personal accident cover for the school children under whichthe compensation is payable in the circumstances below, irrespective of legalliability.

1. Death 20,000

2. Permanent Total/Partial Disablement up to 20,000

The insurance applies to any activities involving a journey outside the premises ofthe Schoolboth in the UK and overseasorganised by the school/Council.


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Care of property, valuables and books

Personal Property:Large sums of money and expensive items should NOTbe brought to school. On no account should money orvaluables be left unattended. Items of this nature are the responsibility of the pupil. Pupils finding or losing

property should report this to the Site Superintendent or the School Office immediately.

School Property:Pupils are expected to take an interest in maintaining the environment of the school; take a pride in the appearance of the school; place litter in the bins provided.

There is zero tolerance of vandalism in Larbert High School. The parents of anyone who causes damage to thefabric of the school will be contacted and an arrangement made to pay for the damage.All textbooks and jotters should be covered and kept free of graffiti. Pupils will require to pay the cost of anybooks lost, damaged or destroyed. Textbooks are becoming increasingly costly items and parents should ensurethat pupils treat them with care, carrying them in a strong, waterproof bag.

Equipment for schoolThe school will provide each pupil with the necessary exercise books and textbooks. However, it is expected thateach child will bring the following items of equipment to school each day: A school bag; A pen, pencil, rubber, ruler, geometry equipment, coloured pencils; A calculator of a type recommended by the school; PE kit (as necessary)


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Section TwoParental Involvement in the School

Parents WelcomeAll Falkirk Council schools welcome parental involvement as research has shown that when parentsare involved children do better in school.

As a matter of course, parents will receive the following communications throughout the session:a. calendar of key dates and eventsb. termly newsletter from the Rectorc. tracking & monitoring reportsd. various Parent information Evenings during the course of the yearThere will be a range of other communications dealing with particular issues as they arise, whether ofa curricular, extra-curricular or emergency nature. For example: Standards and Quality Report Subject Workshop Evening Access to the Internet: Acceptable Use Policy requiring pupils and parents to agree to follow

the rules on responsible use of this resource. Parents have the right to refuse Internet accessin school for their child.

We are anxious at all times to maintain good links with parents. Some communications will have anacknowledgement slip for parents to complete and it is requested that parents sign these and returnthem to the school.

Website & EmailsLarbert High School has a website which contains useful information about the school and is updatedseveral times a week. School newsletters are also published on the website.The website address is: www.larberthigh.comIncreasingly so, all letters and communications are sent to parents via email it is therefore essentialwe have an up to date email address for you.

Parent CouncilsParents are welcomed to be: involved with their childs education and learning;

be active participants in the life of the school; and

express their views on school education generally and work in partnership with the school.All parents / carers are automatically members of the Parent Forum at this school. As a member ofthe Parent Forum all parents can expect to

receive information about the school and its activities;

hear about what partnership with parents means in our school;

be invited to be involved in ways and times that suit you;

identify issues you want the Parent Council to work on with the school;

be asked your opinion by the Parent Council on issues relating to the school and theeducation it provides;

work in partnership with staff; and

enjoy taking part in the life of the school in whatever way possible.

Parent Councils are the formal representative body for parents / carers with children attending school.Parent Councils are different in each school to enable them to meet the needs of parents / carerslocally.

The Parent Forum decides how their representatives on the Parent Council are chosen and how theParent Council operates. Parents / carers are encouraged to volunteer or put themselves forward tobe chosen as representatives of the Parent Council if they wish.

The main aims of the Parent Council are:

To support the school in its work with pupils To represent the views of parents
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To promote contact between the school, parents, pupils, providers of nursery education andthe community

To report to the Parent Forum

To be involved in the appointment of senior promoted staff.

To raise funds for the school for the benefit of pupils (in some schools the PTA/PA fulfils thisrole).

Please insert contact details for the Parent Council, including the name of the Chair, contact e-mailaddress and details of website (if any).

For more information on parental involvement or to find out about parents as partners in theirchildrens learning, please contact the school or visit the Parentzone website atwww.parentzonescotland.gov.uk.

Pupil CouncilThere are three House Councils and an overall School Senate with representatives from each of thethree councils plus the Rector. The Councils have an advisory and consultative responsibility, which is

extremely valuable; most of all in helping to develop the awareness of pupils that the school is a co-operative community.

School EthosOur school policy is to promote belief and respect for the values of others, together with anappreciation of cultures within our society. This will encourage equality of opportunity and theelimination of discrimination on the grounds of race, gender, class, religion, disability and sexualorientation.We do this via the school curriculum by rejecting racism, sexism and other discrimination and bydeveloping a welcoming and understanding climate in classrooms, where learning is not inhibited byantagonism or disrespect for anyones background. We ensure that all pupils have access to avariety of materials and that they are aware of the needs of individuals and groups.

In the informal curriculum, the school has an ethos in which all people are encouraged to developpositive attitudes and are given a definite sense of self-identity and self-respect. We are a communitywhich promotes acceptance of others and rejects prejudice. The atmosphere in the schoolencourages everyone to have an empathy with individuals disabilities or weaknesses. Our school ismulticultural both in character and philosophy. To access our Anti Bullying Policy please visit theschool website.

All pupils are encouraged to take a balanced view of life, to be able to weigh up opposing argumentsand make decisions based on fact and respect, rather than prejudice.

Detention systemAlthough we find that by focusing on the promotion of positive behaviour, detentions are issuedinfrequently. As part of the schools behaviour policy, pupils can be placed on detention as a strategyfor addressing and reprimanding unacceptable behaviour or a consistent lack of effort in the learning.

Detentions are normal carried out by the class teacher or Faculty Principal Teacher at lunchtime.Guidance Teachers also conduct detentions both at lunchtime detention and after school. In someinstances detentions are supervised by the Depute RectorsIf on a lunchtime detention, pupils are always given time to eat their lunch and go to the toilet. Afterschool detentions would be completed by 4pm at the latest. If your child is placed on after-schooldetention you will be notified in advance by the appropriate Guidance Teacher.In addition and in accordance with the schools Late coming Policy, the Guidance staff will issue alunchtimedetention where a pupil has been late on three occasions without a reasonable excuse.
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School ChaplaincyWe have a team of Chaplains who support the school in a variety of different ways:

Assemblies; Work with pupils and staff;

Church services; Prizegiving etc.

The Chaplains, along with some members of staff form the Chaplaincy Group, which meets on abimonthly basis in the school to plan ahead for Pastoral-based activities throughout the school session.We also enjoy the services of Youth Workers, Mike Glass and Jack Thomson, who are employed by thelocal churches and based in Larbert High School. Mike and Jack work with small groups within theschool, contribute to PSD lessons run the Scripture Union and visit our cluster primary schools, wherethey deliver the Bible Alive programme and lead assemblies. They are available throughout the weekto speak to pupils on a confidential basis. Pupils attend Church services at the end of each term andthese are held in one of our local churches, led by members of the Chaplaincy Team.

Any parents who wish to withdraw their child from attendance on the grounds of conscience shouldprovide a note explaining this and arrangements will then be made for supervision.

Our school Chaplains are:

Rev K Bleakley Larbert Baptist Rev M Crosthwaite Larbert East Rev D Randall Free Church of Scotland Rev A Moore Bothkennar & Carronshore Pastor M Rollo Larbert Pentecostal Youth Pastor, J Rollo Larbert Pentecostal Rev R Randall Larbert Grace Church M Glass Youth Worker J Thomson Youth Worker (Part Time)

Development of Pupils' Spiritual, Moral, Cultural and Social ValuesThe school is committed to supporting the development of its pupils as whole people and as a result,

wishes to encourage their development in spiritual, moral, social and cultural terms.

These key human aspects of learning are supported through the following arrangements by:-

Creating a school ethos which, in every way possible, gives value to these aspects of

development, especially by providing an overall atmosphere that is both caring and

challenging and which provides opportunities for the development of personal responsibility.

Promoting social and moral learning through the way in which disciplinary issues are handled. Ensuring that staff and adults within the school provide positive models for pupils.

Arranging regular gatherings of the school as a community and using such occasions to

encourage and reinforce the values on which the school is based.

Enriching the curriculum in all appropriate areas with an emphasis on spiritual, moral, social

and cultural development.

Providing opportunities within the curriculum to advance personal and social development.

Providing a programme of religious education in which consideration will be given to

responses to basic questions relating to the meaning, value and purpose of human life.

Providing a programme of moral education.

Taking every appropriate opportunity to acknowledge, value and appreciate the variouscultures and heritage of the pupils and to encourage them to appreciate and value the

cultures and heritage of others.


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Pupil ConductA partnership between the school and parents is necessary in order to ensure the best possiblestandards of pupil conduct.Pupils are expected to set themselves high standards in appearance and behaviour. School rules aredevised to encourage the maximum amount of self-discipline. The rules make clear what is expectedof pupils, and how they are required to behave. The general aim is to produce an atmosphere of

friendly co-operation, encouraging respect and consideration for other persons and for property. Abehavioural agreement is included in the School Enrolment Form that parents complete whenenrolling their child(ren).

Promoting positive behaviour and raising expectationsWe recognise that effective learning and teaching can take place only if pupils are able to enjoy asecure and orderly environment and, in general, the conduct of our pupils at Larbert High is very good

serious incidents of misbehaviour are very rare. The schools policy on promoting good behaviourplaces strong emphasis on the development of a positive ethos and the setting of high expectations.This positive ethos is characterised by good relationships between pupils and between staff andpupils.Our School and Class Code of Conduct are embedded in the life of the school. TALENTallows each

pupil the opportunity to realise their full potential and aims to prevent misconduct from getting in theway of learning. These standards and expectations are displayed in every teaching area and aroundthe school and they are regularly explained to our pupils.

Treat people & your school with respectAttendance & punctuality are importantLearning is your top priorityEnsure you are ready to work & have all necessary equipmentNurture your potential through hard workTry your best at all times

The vast majority of our pupils exceed the TALENT expectations. However, should a pupil choose toignore them then this is entered onto our computerised system, known as OTB. This may result in a

referral to the Principal Teacher (Subject) or House Teacher, but should the problem persist, it willeventually lead to the appropriate Depute Rector. The system is supported by a series of sanctionssuch as time out, reflective exercises or class exclusion. Parents will be informed if such a sanction isimposed on a pupil.In any case, parents will be involved at a very early stage if it appears that a problem is developing.Experience has shown that a joint, co-operative approach, at an early stage, between the home andthe school is the most effective way to resolve any issues.Larbert High School is a Restorative Approaches school, where we promote positive relationshipsthrough an agreed set of values. Differences are solved through discussion and where someone hascaused hurt, they take responsibility for their actions and undertake to make amends. All staff andpupils know about this approach and a group of staff have had further, specialised training. Thisenables them to facilitate restorative conversations to resolve conflict. In addition, a group of pupils havebeen trained in peer mediation and they too will be working to promote positive relationships within the school.

In particularly complex situations the school is proactive in securing the support of our own Integrated PupilSupport faculty and appropriate outside agencies such as Social Services, Psychological Services and theEducation Authority.If a particularly serious incident of misbehaviour takes place, the Rector has the power to exclude a pupil fromschool.Visitors to our school regularly comment on the welcoming, friendly atmosphere of the school. By and large,pupils are friendly to one another and show respect to teachers and other staff whom they recognise as workinghard to provide them with the best learning opportunities.


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Restorative Approach to Bullying BehaviourWhilst many believe that children who display bullying behaviour should be punished, it is widely accepted thatthis type of response can at times be ineffective, and make the situation worse.

The adoption of restorative approaches is a more effective response than traditional punishments. Pupils aregiven the opportunity to accept responsibility for their actions, recognise the harm done and are supported to find

restorative responses to the harm they have caused.There are times sanctions are appropriate; exclusion is seen as a last resort and carried out when incidents fallwithin the legislation criteria.

Falkirk Council has a responsibility to provide an education for all pupils and to challenge and address bullyingbehaviour. Whilst appropriate action will be taken by the school, it is also important that all parents involved, workwith the school to resolve any issues in the best interests of their child or young person.

Anti-Bullying PolicyThe school is committed to its anti-bullying strategy, a copy of which is in every pupil's diary.

Bullying is a matter of particular concern to parents of new S1 pupils as they pass from a small primary school toa very large secondary school. Only a small number of cases of bullying come to light in Larbert High School but Imust reassure parents that cases of bullying which are reported arealwaysfollowed up.

Further details on our anti-bullying policy can be found on our websitewww.larberthigh.com

Health Education

The Health Education Programme is part of the wider Health & Well Being area of the curriculum. Itaims to assist pupils in making informed decisions and choices about the inter-related aspects ofphysical, social and mental health.

The main aims of the programme are to develop the pupils health knowledge through relevant, up -to-date information on aspects of health; allow them to explore and understand feelings, attitudes andvalues related to their own and others health; and to develop personal and interpersonal skills so thatthey can make informed decisions and take positive control of their own health.It is hoped by following these aims the pupils will also develop their self-image and self-esteem in apositive way.

ZERO TOLERANCE

Anti-Bullying Policy


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Pastoral Care


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Questions about the relationships between parents and teachers; the job of the Guidance Teacher(House Teacher); how to meet the teachers; communications between the school and home.

The House TeamsThe pastoral structure is based around 3 Houses Lewis; Harris; Skye. Pupils are divided into these 3Houses. Pupils register in Form classes but teaching sections are different. It has the advantage for

parents of being involved with the same House team for all members of their family throughout theirsecondary school career. It is intended to be helpful in extending pupils loyalty to their House and, inturn, to the school itself.

The Guidance Teacher is a very important person in a secondary pupils life a nd represents the mainlink between the school and the home. It is the Guidance teacher who monitors attendance and time-keeping with the assistance of Form teachers, who scrutinises reports and monitors pupil progress,who liaises with outside bodies and who assists in writing reports for prospective employers.The school, as a whole, has a responsibility to promote the social, personal and intellectualdevelopment of all pupils. Within this requirement there is the necessity to organise a systematic careprovision to help cater for the needs of the individual pupil.

Within this overall requirement the objectives in Pastoral Care vary with each year. In S1, Pastoral

Care is all about helping the pupils to settle in and to begin to feel a sense of belonging to their newschool community. There is a key theme in each year thereafter. Parents are kept informed of thesematters and we place a high value on parental co-operation. The House staff are pleased to meetparents to discuss any aspect of what is a shared responsibility - the progress of your child and ourpupil. It is best if parents write or telephone to make an appointment, in view of the fact that all Housestaff have a teaching commitment.

The Rector, and Depute Rectors are all closely involved in the House structure but those most closelyidentified with Pastoral Care are our Guidance Teachers.

Through contacts with staff, pupils and parents, the respective House teams come to know theirpupils well enough to be in a favourable position to offer advice on any problems encountered inschool and to assist when important decisions have to be made.

Health & Well BeingAll pupils in Larbert High School undertake Health & Well Being as part of their core curriculum in recognition of

the importance of the development of the pupil as a person and as a member of society. Health &Well Being, therefore, focuses on fostering self-awareness as well as awareness of and respect forothers.

The day-to-day life of the school, its positive ethos and the hidden curriculum of school clubs andactivities contribute to personal and social development, as does each subject in its own way throughthe content of the course and how it is taught.

Within Curriculum for Excellence there is a focus on Health & Wellbeing. The main organisersfor this are:

Mental, emotional and social wellbeing

Planning for choices and changes

Physical Activity and Sport

Food & Health

Substance Misuse Sexual Relationships, sexual health & parenthood

While aspects of this are taught through PE, FCT and PSE, other curricular areas make contributions to theprogramme.This involves providing a range of opportunities, where, through discussion, group work role play or visitingspeakers, the appropriate skills can be developed and practised.The programme, therefore, aims to nurture the development of those skills and qualities, which will enableyoung people to make their own informed decisions.


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Child ProtectionGiven public concern on the subject of child abuse and changes in the law, schools, in line with Falkirk Councilprocedures, are now required to have a Child Protection Policy in place. It is the schools responsibility to reportconcerns if they think any child has come to harm as a consequence of possible abuse or if they think a childmay be at risk in any way.Each school now has a designated officer appointed to be responsible for child protection matters and is specially

trained for the task. The designated officer for Larbert High School is Mrs Susan Orr, Depute Rector.Where there is suspicion that a child could be at risk of abuse or neglect, the school is required to refer thatconcern to Social Work and, under these circumstances, the parents would not normally be consultedbeforehand.Should you wish to talk further about child protection and the safety of children please feel free to contact theRector.To access the Child Protection Policy, please visit the schools website.


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Section ThreeSchool Curriculum

Curriculum for Excellence

Bringinglearning to life and life to learning

Curriculum for Excellence has now been introduced across Scotland for all 3-18 year oldswhereverthey learn. It aims to raise standards, prepare our children for a future they do not yet know andequip them for jobs of tomorrow in a fast changing world. Curriculum for excellence will be fullyimplemented by 2016.

Glow, Scotlands unique, world leading, online network supports learners and teachers and plans arealready in place for parents across the country to have access to Glow. Parents should ask the schoolhow to arrange access to Glow and a user name and password will be issued.

Teachers and practitioners will share information to plan a childs learning journey from 3 -18, helpingtheir progression from nursery to primary, primary to secondary and beyond, ensuring each transition

is smooth. Theyll ensure children continue to work at a pace they can cope with and with challengethey can thrive on.

Curriculum for Excellence balances the importance of knowledgeand skills.Every child is entitled to a broad and deepgeneral education, whatever their level and ability. Everysingle teacher and practitioner will be responsible for the development of literacy and numeracy andhealth and wellbeingfrom Early Level through to Senior Phase.

It develops skills for learning, life and work, bringing real life into the classroom, making learningrelevant and helping young people apply lessons to their life beyond the classroom. It linksknowledge in one subject area to another helping make connections in their learning. It developsskills which can enable children to think for themselves, make sound judgements, challenge, enquireand find solutions.

There will be new ways of assessing progressand ensuring children achieve their potential. New

qualifications at National 4 and 5 will be available from 2013/14. Our well regarded New Highers2014-15 and New Highers 2015-16, Highers and Advanced Highers will be updated to take account ofand support the new approaches to learning and teaching.

There is an entitlement to personal support to help young people fulfil their potential and make themost of their opportunities with additional support wherever thats needed. There will be a newemphasis by all staff on looking after our childrens health and wellbeingto ensure that the schoolis a place where children feel safe and secure.

Ultimately, Curriculum for Excellence aims to improve our childrens life chances, to nurturesuccessfullearners, confidentindividuals, effectivecontributors, and responsiblecitizens, buildingon Scotlands reputation for great education.

Schools should include information on how pupils develop skills for learning, life and work,including literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing in and out of the classroom.

We have revised Learning to Achieve our core educational policy.Learning to Achievedescribes in detail how Curriculum for Excellencewill be delivered in our educational establishments. We will use

Learning to Achieve to monitor, develop and improve outcomes forchildren and young people.


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Schools should expand on curriculum issues. How the curriculum is planned and deliveredat the school, including

The different subjects and learning opportunities that are available for pupils and when theseare available. What subjects are covered and when, the pattern of the year, any particularactivities planned e.g. school trips or outdoor activities, language learning, interdisciplinarylearning. What does the learners journey look like?

Please contact the headteacher if you would like any further informationabout the curriculum within our school.

Schools should include information on where and how a parent can find out more about theschools curriculum at local and national level. Skills for life, the four capacities. How is theschool implementing CFE? The Es and Os, broad general education, progression throughthe curriculum levels and curriculum planning guidance. You may wish to signpost parents tonational websites for some of this information including Education Scotland and SkillsDevelopment Scotland.

How are First Year classes organised?First year classes are organised on a mixed ability basis, except in Mathematics where theclasses are set based on information from the associated primaries.

This means, with the exception of Mathematics, all classes contain the full range of abilityand no class is better than any other. Teaching mixed ability classes is a very demandingtask for any teacher. However, it is part of the schools learning and teaching policy toensure that each child is set tasks in keeping with her/his ability.

A number of factors are taken into consideration when classes are being made up. Forexample, care is taken to ensure that a pupil is placed in a class where he/she knows

someone. This is particularly important for pupils coming from small primary schools.However, it is not possible to ensure that every pupil is placed with her/his best friend.

Care is also taken to ensure there is a genuine mix of ability in each class. Advice isobtained from primary teachers and learning support staff to ensure that the best balance isachieved.

All first year pupils follow what is called the common course, which means that they all studythe same subjects.


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What will my child study?

FIRST YEAR

2010 was a pinnacle year within Scottish Education as following several years in the making,Curriculum for Excellencewas finally implemented in all schools.

Quite simply, Curriculum for Excellence is about three things:

raising the bar; closing the gap; ensuring our young people are ready for the wider world.

The curricular areas which contribute to the S1 experience are detailed below. In addition,all pupils will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities andwider achievement opportunities.

Curricular Area Contributing subjects in S1

Expressive & Creative Arts Art, Drama and MusicHealth and Wellbeing Food & Consumer Technology, PE and PSE

Languages English, Literacy and Modern LanguagesMathematics Mathematics and NumeracySciences Biology, Chemistry and PhysicsHumanities Geography, History, Modern Studies and

RMPSTechnologies Business & Information Technology and CDT

SECOND / THIRD YEAR

As our S1 pupils move into S2 we feel it appropriate that they are offered the opportunity, in somecurricular areas, to specialise and further develop their skills and knowledge. We will do this througha curriculum review. In summary:

all pupils will study English, Mathematicsand a Modern Language, HWB, RMPS:

pupils will then be offered the opportunity to specialise in five subjects. They will have a free-choice of subjects from those detailed within each of the curricular areas. Pupils will choose aparticular focus within each curriculum area.

It is important to assure you that all of our courses and experiences whatever title they takehavebeen appropriately planned around the expectations of a Curriculum for Excellence. All curricularareas will continue to ensure that pupils are actively engaged in their learning and that thefundamental skills of literacy; numeracy and ICT are addressed. The core inserts of PE, PSE andRMPS will ensure that the health & well-being agenda remains a high priority.

SENIOR PHASE (S4, 5 & 6)

At this time (as in all Scottish schools) the Senior Phase is currently being reviewed and furtherinformation will be available to you in due course.

Please contact the headteacher if you would like any further information about the curriculum withinour school.

Active LearningCurriculum for Excellence emphasises the value of an active learning approach. Activelearning is an engagement of the brain whilst partly in the early years, children will have arange of learning experiences that include planned and purposeful play and stimulatinglearning which engages and challenges childrens thinking using real life and imaginary


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situations. as children progress through school they continue to be involved in activelearning experiences which give them ownership of their own learning, encourage co-operative working and utilise skills required for learning, life and work.

Planning Childrens and Young Peoples Learning

Teachers in nursery, primary and secondary schools share their learning intentions withpupils, parents and carers. This takes place on a day-to-day basis, by agreeing the aims ofan individual piece of work.

Longer-term planning also takes place in a variety of forms. Pupils in primary schoolsnegotiate with their teachers their aims for the next block of learning. At the end of the blockprogress against these aims is assessed by the teacher and pupil, and, new targets are setfor the following block of learning.

In secondary schools, pupils review progress against targets and negotiate new ones withtheir pastoral teacher.

In order to encourage pupils to take responsibility for their learning, a growing number ofprimary schools use Learning Logs in which pupils plan their programme for completinghomework assessments. In secondary schools, homework diaries serve a similar purpose.These diaries are also used for pupils to record their long-term targets.

Schools should include information about how pupils will be given choices in what they learn,how they are involved in planning what they learn, and how parents are consulted. Ifrelevant, information about staying on at schools, going to college or university, work basedlearning, community based learning, volunteering etc.

Careers information

Larbert High Schools partnership agreement with Skills Development Scotland (SDS) isreviewed annually to provide a relevant and interesting programme, which meets the needsof the pupils at each stage. As well as the vocational lessons embedded in the S1-S6 HWBProgramme, Careers Education is also delivered by the Careers Adviser who meets yeargroups at appropriate times, for example in the build-up to course choice. A specialprogramme operates to help pupils prepare for leaving both in June for S4 and December forS5 (Christmas Leavers) and the Careers Adviser is available during selected ParentsEvenings. The school also has a well-stocked careers section in the library and all pupilshave access to online careers information via programmes such as Kudos, PlanIT Plus,Careers Match and My World of Work.There are opportunities to visit careers events at different venues such as in Novemberwhen seniors can benefit from the College 4U Event at Forth Valley College run in

partnership with SDS. In June, S5 travel to Heriot Watt University for an induction day andS6 have the chance to find out about all the Scottish universities and colleges at a HigherEducation Convention. Finally, pupils are given the chance to find out about specific careerareas when visiting employers give presentations.


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Mentoring

Originally organised through SDS, but now facilitated by the school, an enthusiastic team of

business mentors, from a wide range of employment backgrounds, offers extra support andencouragement to some of our pupils, ensuring that they are on course to achieving theirpotential and are well prepared for the transition from school community to the world of work.

Work Experience

Groups of pupils are offered the chance to gain valuable experience in the world of work.Selected S4 pupils who are summer leavers and S5 pupils who are Christmas leavers will have theopportunity to spend one week in a work placement, developing important employment skillsbefore leaving school. In addition S4 and S5 pupils may opt for work experience through theWider Achievement Opportunity built into the Senior Phase curriculum .

HomeworkThe school has a clearly defined policy on homework, a copy of which can be obtained fromthe Head Teacher or from the school websitewww.larberthigh.com

Pupils are regularly given homework to support their learning and to encourage them tobecome more organised and self-supporting in their learning. Homework tasks will be givenwhere a teacher feels a particular child or group of children may benefit from it.

The homework will be organised according to the stage and ability of the child, it can arisefrom all curricular areas, and it may include written, oral or practical activities. The tasks setwill be interesting, worthwhile and challenging for the child.

Parents are encouraged to help pupils with their homework as a means of keeping them upto date with the work of the class and the childs progress and to promote partnershipbetween the school and parents. Homework provides an opportunity to consolidate whathas been learned in class, and makes you aware of what your child is learning and providesyou with a useful discussion starter. Homework is also an integral part of school work.Parental interest and co-operation in ensuring homework is undertaken is appreciated. Theschool encourages parents to sign each homework task.

Care of Books / MaterialsTo enable us to provide the best possible education for your child, every care should be taken to lookafter the schools resources and facilities. Parents are asked to remind their child(ren) that all schoolequipment and fitments should be used with care.

Books and learning resources which are lost or destroyed must be paid for, either wholly or in part,depending on the age of the book. Any loss of school or Council property should be reportedimmediately to the school.

Sensitive Aspects of LearningSex education is not only informative and an essential part of each childs education, but it is taughtwith sensitivity and understanding throughout the school in a co-ordinated programme of Health &Well Being.

Health & Well Being

All pupils in Larbert High School undertake Health & Well Being as part of their core curriculum inrecognition of the importance of the development of the pupil as a person and as a member of
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society. Health & Well Being, therefore, focuses on fostering self-awareness as well as awareness ofand respect for others.The day-to-day life of the school, its positive ethos and the hidden curriculum of school clubs andactivities contribute to personal and social development, as does each subject in its own way throughthe content of the course and how it is taught.Within Curriculum for Excellence there is a focus on Health & Wellbeing. The main organisers for

this are:

Mental, emotional and social wellbeing

Planning for choices and changes

Physical Activity and Sport

Food & Health

Substance Misuse

Sexual Relationships, sexual health & parenthood

While aspects of this are taught through PE, FCT and PSE, other curricular areas make contributionsto the programme.This involves providing a range of opportunities, where, through discussion, group work role play orvisiting speakers, the appropriate skills can be developed and practised.

The programme, therefore, aims to nurture the development of those skills and qualities, which willenable young people to make their own informed decisions.

Religious Instruction and Observance

Parents who wish to exercise their right to withdraw their child from religious instruction and / orobservance should contact the head teacher, in writing, and alternative arrangements will be made foryour child.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesEvery school is encouraged to offer as wide a range of sporting and cultural activities as possible. In

this context, the Authority provides a degree of financial and administrative support for leagues,competitions, festivals and similar events but it is recognised that, again, the help of parents and thecommunity is irreplaceable. Quite separately, the Council and / or Falkirk Community Trust and otherpartner organisations also undertake to organise and administer certain events and many schoolstake part in these.

There is a range of extra curricular activities available for pupils during lunchtime and after school.Parents will be informed about these by the school. In addition to in-school activities, classes alsomake regular educational visits and field studies. Wherever possible, these visits are linked to pupilsclass work.

All activities are supervised by members of staff, and many schools have a study support co-ordinatorwhose job it is to plan and oversee the extra curricular programme of activities. Where participation

involves children travelling or staying late after school, written permission for children taking part isrequired from parents.

Larbert High School is a Community Sports Hub in partnership with Sportscotland, StenhousemuirFootball Club and the Falkirk Community Trust; this is called Tryst Community Sports Club (TCSC).In short this means that we offer a total of 70 extra-curricular clubs (sporting and non-sporting), 17Junior Sports Clubs and also 9 Adult Sports Activities from 7.30am7.00pm, 5 days a week and alsoon a Saturday morning. The Tryst also has a brand new state of the art Cardio Suite, Group IndoorCycling Room and a soon to be a one of its kind purpose built bike pump track facility

School Handbook Dec 2014

Documents

Transcript of School Handbook Dec 2014