1

Oxon Church of England Primary School Racecourse Lane, Bicton Heath, Shrewsbury, Shropshire. SY3 5BJ Telephone : 01743 351948 Fax No : 01743 272645 Website : www.oxon.shropshire.sch.uk Headteacher – Mr Mark Rogers B.Ed (Hons), NPQH

WELCOME TO OXON C.E. PRIMARY SCHOOL This prospectus is written with the intention of giving you a picture of our school. It is a mixture of information that we are legally required to include and additional information that we feel may be helpful. If you feel we have missed something in this booklet there is more in-depth information available on our school website: www.oxon.shropshire.sch.uk. I am firmly of the opinion that no document, however well written, can give a true picture of a working school. I am always delighted to show visitors around the school when it is in full operation. On such occasions I hope to be able to illustrate our commitment to seeing children working hard to achieve their full potential in a calm, caring and disciplined environment. If you wish to make a visit to the school then please do not hesitate to contact me. In the meantime, I hope this document gives you a flavour of our school and our pride in it.

Mark Rogers Headteacher

2

INFORMATION ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Oxon is a Voluntary Controlled Church of England Primary School which has close links with Christ Church Shelton and Oxon, Bicton Heath. The school first opened in 1860 on a site next to the current parish church on the Welshpool Road. In 1959 the school began to move to this, its current site opening initially with two classrooms. The school has grown considerably over recent years and now has fourteen classes. As a Church of England Primary School, we have a clear commitment to promoting a strong Christian ethos within the school. The school has Voluntary Controlled status which means that admission to the school is not dependent on any Christian commitment. We are delighted that the school represents the wide range of different faiths and perspectives of our local community. The school has approximately 400 children on roll, taught in fourteen classes.

3

OUR MISSION A happy and secure atmosphere We seek to provide a supportive learning environment that is calm, positive and purposeful. We aim for our school to have a happy, caring and friendly atmosphere. The best for each child We value a spirit of mutual respect and inclusiveness. We strive to offer a curriculum that recognises the needs of every child, supports self esteem and provides opportunities to fulfil personal potential. Life-long Learning We aim to foster within children a love of learning and a confidence in their own abilities that will stay with them throughout their formal education and their later life.

4

BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES Oxon CE Primary School is situated in its own spacious grounds off Racecourse Lane in Bicton Heath. It is surrounded by attractive gardens to the front and a large games field area bounded by trees and hedges to the rear. There are fourteen classrooms with additional practical work areas and a general purpose room. School Hall There is a multi-purpose hall which is used for P.E., music, dance and drama, and for whole school events such as our two annual productions and for class assemblies to which parents are invited. The hall is also used for meals during the lunch time.

ICT Suite The school has a well equipped ICT suite with 32 networked workstations and also has over seventy wireless enabled laptop computers for use in other areas of the school. All classes are equipped with interactive whiteboards which are used to enhance the children’s learning through the presentation of high quality teaching materials and access to interactive learning experiences. Whilst valuing the contribution of ICT to learning and teaching, the school continues to foster a love of books amongst the children and has a well resourced, reference library. Playground and School Fields Outside the main building there are large, well-equipped hard play areas and the extensive school fields which are used to support learning across the curriculum and as a particularly pleasant additional play area during the summer term.

5

Forest School and Wildlife Area The school has a 'forest schools area' which is used to enhance children’s learning in a range of areas and a gardening area for growing vegetables.

Earlyworld Kids Club We also have a well-equipped music room which is sited in a joint-use building which the school uses in conjunction with “Earlyworld” which operates an after-school club as well as a holiday club. At Oxon we are pleased to offer a Breakfast Club, an After-School Care Facility and a School Holiday Club which are all run by Earlyworld. The Breakfast club is available from 7.30am with the choice of an optional breakfast. The After-School Club is run from 3.00pm to 6.00pm during term time and from 8.00am to 6.00pm during the school holidays. For more information, please contact: Earlyworld Kids Club - 01743 363310

6

SCHOOL ORGANISATION Year Group

Age of Children

Number of classes

Reception

4 and 5

2 classes

Key Stage 1 Year 1 Year 2

5 and 6 6 and 7

2 classes 2 classes

Key Stage 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6

7 and 8 8 and 9 9 and 10 10 and 11

2 2 2 2

classes classes classes classes

Class sizes vary from year to year, according to the number of children on the school roll. The school has a statutory responsibility not to exceed 30 pupils in any foundation or key stage 1 class. The average class size is currently 28. TEACHING GROUP ARRANGEMENTS The children are grouped in mixed ability classes taught by a class teacher. These classes are arranged by age. The school has fourteen classes with two classes in each year group. In order to support children’s learning and provide work at an appropriate level some subjects may be taught in ability based sets. This is most commonly done in mathematics at key stage 2. In these sets the children follow the same topics differentiated to meet their individual needs. Children’s progress is monitored closely by their class teacher and they may be moved between sets during the year if their learning needs indicate this to be appropriate. On other occasions the children will work in both ability based groups and mixed ability groups within their classroom depending upon the nature of the activity and learning involved.

7

THE CURRICULUM In accordance with the National Curriculum the children from key stage 1 (year 1 and 2) and key stage 2 (years 3, 4, 5 and 6) study the following subjects. Core subjects English Mathematics Science Foundation subjects History Geography Religious Education Art Computing Physical Education Music Design Technology Personal Social and Health Education French Children in the reception classes follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, which consists of seven, equally important, areas of learning:       

Personal, social and emotional development Physical development Communication and language Literacy Mathematics Understanding of the world Expressive Arts and Design

Whilst the majority of the curriculum is taught with a single subject focus, teachers take every opportunity to link curriculum areas where this is considered appropriate. For example, much of the material used within the study of non-fiction reading and writing in literacy will be drawn from other curriculum areas. The use of Information Communications Technology for all children is embedded within the curriculum. Its delivery includes the direct teaching of specific skills and knowledge as well as practical application within the children’s work.

8

ENGLISH English provides the communication skills fundamental to functioning effectively on a personal, social, educational and professional basis. In recognition of this, English provides the backbone of the school curriculum at Oxon School. Our commitment to the teaching of reading and writing skills throughout the school reflects our belief that all children should have the tools necessary to progress their own learning at school and beyond. Our aim is for all pupils to become confident, fluent readers who can write imaginatively using grammatically correct English, correct spelling and a neat, fluent handwriting style. Where children experience difficulties in mastering these skills, they are provided with additional support through individual and small group work. The English curriculum has three distinct strands.  Reading  Writing  Speaking and listening. MATHEMATICS We are committed to providing children with a good working knowledge of all the different areas of maths and to giving them the confidence to use and apply that knowledge through the development of their logical and creative thinking skills. The maths curriculum covers many different strands of mathematics including number, shape and space, measures, data handling and problem solving. We are particularly committed to enabling children to apply their mathematical skills and knowledge within problem solving situations from an early age. This reflects our belief that learning is more meaningful for children where they can see a purpose for it.

9

SCIENCE Science is an important subject which is studied throughout the school. In the Early Years Foundation Stage, science forms part of the work covering ‘knowledge and understanding of the world’. In this area of learning children are developing the skills and understanding that help them make sense of the world. They do this through exploration, observation, problem solving, prediction, critical thinking, decision making and discussion. These early experiences and skills are developed as children move through school where the emphasis continues to be on developing scientific thinking through practical and investigative work. The school has a wide range of resources available to support teaching and learning in science and teachers make extensive use of the outdoor environment including our easily accessible wildlife area with a pond. COMPUTING We believe a sound grasp of computing is essential in modern society. At Oxon, computing is taught as a discrete subject and is also used to enhance teaching and learning in other curriculum areas. The school is fortunate to be extremely well resourced with regard to computing. We have a purpose built ICT suite containing thirty two networked workstations and a digital projector. All classes are equipped with interactive whiteboards which include digital projectors. The school also has over seventy wireless enabled laptops that are used in the classrooms to support learning across the curriculum. All computers are connected to the school intranet and have access to the internet and e-mail. All pupils work in the ICT suite for at least one session a week. Other ICT resources are used on a daily basis.

10

HISTORY Children study a wide number of different historical periods within school. The different units of work studied are all designed to make history ‘come alive’ for the children. Key strategies include the use of educational visits, visitors to school and high quality resources. An important focus throughout school is developing children’s skills as historians, a focus on using different sources of evidence is particularly important. Over recent years visits have included: Shropshire Archives Attingham Park Weston Park Blists Hill Open Air Museum GEOGRAPHY Geography work covers a wide range of studies including:  the study of place – local, national and international;  the study of human impact on the environment;  the development of geographical skills including map work and field study work;  the study of themes such as water, rivers, settlement and environmental issues; The school is committed to making extensive use of local studies to explore as many of the elements of geography as possible. Over recent years visits have included:  Cardingmill Valley – River Study  Greenacres Farm, Shifnal  Wyre Forest  Ludlow – Rock Detectives At Oxon School, we are committed to introducing children to sustainable development issues and implementing sustainable practices within everyday school life. As part of this work, we have achieved an Eco School Silver award and are working towards a Gold award.

11

ART The intention in this area is to stimulate the imagination and develop new skills. A variety of activities in both two and three dimensions using a wide variety of materials are undertaken. The school places a high emphasis on displaying the children’s artistic work in order to celebrate achievement and provide inspiration. Each year the school holds an ‘arts week’ where the children work, at length, on a whole school arts focus. Professional artists are employed to enhance the children’s learning experience and parents are invited to an open afternoon to celebrate their achievements at the end of the week. P.E. AND GAMES Our sporting aims are for all children to develop physical competence and gain satisfaction and pleasure from skilful physical activity. We believe sport can be enjoyed by all whatever their age or physical ability. P.E. and games takes place for all classes in the school hall and on the school playground and fields. In addition to these lessons, children from years 5 and 6 go swimming. Details of out of school activities can be found in a later section. DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY Design and technology offers opportunities for children to nurture creativity and innovation and to develop their designing and making skills. It is a practical subject where the children are encouraged to learn about designing and making through consideration of a variety of products. Children will work with a range of materials including food, 12

textiles, construction components.

materials,

electrical

resources

and

mechanical

Children are encouraged to evaluate their work in order to develop their reflective and critical skills and so enhance subsequent learning in this area. MUSIC Music lessons are an important feature of the school curriculum. They allow children the opportunity to make and respond to music and to develop skills, attitudes and attributes that can support learning in other subject areas for example listening skills, the ability to concentrate, creativity, intuition, aesthetic sensitivity, perseverance, self-confidence and sensitivity towards others. Classes are taught by the class teachers and by additional music specialists employed by the school. Lessons may take place in the classroom or our dedicated music rooms. A number of children also receive instrumental tuition from the peripatetic music service. Additional information about this can be obtained from the music co-ordinator in school. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION The school follows the Shropshire Agreed Syllabus for R.E. which provides opportunities for children to develop their knowledge and understanding of Christianity and to understand and respect different religions, beliefs, values and traditions. In the foundation stage, R.E. is included in the topic ‘knowledge and understanding about the world’. The school has close links with Christ Church, Oxon and visits are made as part of the R.E. work. Our Vicar also visits school regularly as part of the children’s R.E. activities. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of R.E. if they prefer.

13

PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION [PSHE] Personal, social and health education is taught throughout the school. PSHE aims to give children the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to lead confident, healthy and independent lives, and to become informed, active and responsible citizens. Relationships and Sex Education is taught as part of the PSHE programme as is Drugs Education. Children’s awareness and experience of their role as participating, responsible citizens is encouraged through our active School Council which is made up of elected representatives from each class. The Council meets on a regular basis, has its own budget and makes an important contribution to school life. The school has been awarded Shropshire Schools for Health Gold Award and National Healthy School status. FRENCH French is taught throughout the school. In key stage 2 French is taught, on a weekly basis, both as a single subject and through other areas of the curriculum.

14

EDUCATIONAL VISITS The school is committed to regular high quality educational visits. We believe that well planned visits enrich the curriculum by giving the children opportunities to experience a wide variety of different experiences that deepens their understanding and helps to further motivate them as learners. Over recent years visits have included: • • • • • • • • • •

Cardingmill Valley – River Study Blists Hill Open Air Museum Greenacres Farm, Shifnal Shropshire Archives Attingham Park Wyre Forest Weston Park Secret Hills Discovery Centre Ludlow – Rock Detectives Pioneer Centre – Residential visit

ASSEMBLIES-COLLECTIVE WORSHIP Daily assemblies are held for all children. These assemblies provide opportunities for children to participate in collective worship and to celebrate work and achievements. The assemblies are led by the headteacher, members of staff and our Vicar, Rev O’Brien. They will include a wide variety of activities in which children and adults participate. We have class assemblies each year to which parents and other visitors are invited. At different times during the year the children will visit Christ Church Oxon to take part in a variety of services including Harvest Festival and a Christmas Carol Concert. Parents with particular religious convictions who wish their child to be excluded from assemblies should contact the school, where their right to withdraw children from acts of worship will be upheld and alternative supervision arranged.

15

PUPILS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS At Oxon CE Primary School, we seek to provide a supportive learning environment for all children. We strive to offer a curriculum that recognises the needs of every child, supports self-esteem and provides opportunities to fulfil personal potential. All teachers are responsible for the progress of all the children in their class. When a teacher identifies that a child is making significantly less than expected progress, they work with parents and the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to assess whether the child has Special Educational Needs (SEN). Once a child is identified as having SEN, they are placed at ‘SEN Support’. SEN Support takes the form of a four part cycle through which decisions and actions are revisited, refined and revised; with a growing understanding of the child’s needs and of what support the child requires in order to secure positive outcomes. When a child is at ‘SEN Support’ a Pupil Centred Plan is drawn up in discussion with the child, the parents and the class teacher. This short plan is tailored to suit the specific needs of the pupil and usually involves input from specialist support agencies. The Pupil Centred Plan (PCP) is reviewed termly. Teaching assistants work with the class teachers and SENCO to deliver pupil progress and narrow gaps in performance. Teaching assistants may be part of a package of support for the child, specifically focusing on key outcomes. Children with more complex needs may have a Statement or Education Health Care Plan (EHCP). A Statement is formally transferred to an EHCP once a formal review has taken place. Statements are transferred into plans in line with the Local Authority transition arrangements. PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES We are fortunate to have facilities at Oxon School that allow wheelchair access. Children with different abilities are encouraged to join in everyday activities with other pupils. Where this is not possible, other suitable activities can be arranged. Pupils with disabilities are admitted to Oxon school in accordance with the Local Authority guidelines and where applicable the SEN code of conduct.

16

GIFTED AND TALENTED PUPILS We aim to meet the needs of all children including those who are particularly gifted and talented. We identify children who we consider are gifted and talented on a regular basis. Children are identified through a variety of methods but particularly through assessment activities. The needs of these children are usually met through the differentiation of work within the normal teaching group. Parents are informed when their child has been added to the data base. BEHAVIOUR AND DISCIPLINE As part of our policy in aiming for the highest standards possible for each child in all aspects of school life, we expect good and appropriate behaviour from all children at all times. Our aim is for children to respect each other and the adults in school at all times. The children are encouraged to appreciate the facilities of the school, to look after them, and to use them in the correct manner. LINKS WITH PARENTS We value very highly the need for good communication between home and school and we aim to work in close partnership with parents. This is achieved through a variety of means including regular newsletters, parent consultation evenings and class assemblies to which parents are invited. My staff and I are always willing to help with any problems or concerns that may arise.

17

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES At Oxon we are pleased to offer a wide range of after school clubs. Listed below are the clubs that have been offered during the last two academic years.                            

Art Athletics Chess Choir Cookery Craft Cricket Cycling Dance Drama Eco Club First Aid Football Gardening Gymnastics Hand Chimes Maths Multi Skills Sports Music Netball Performance Recorder Recky Rangers Rounders Tag rugby Textiles Table Tennis Volleyball OFSTED INSPECTIONS

The school last underwent an Ofsted inspection in September 2011. The report includes the following comments: ‘Pupils make good academic progress and some aspects of their personal development are outstanding.’ ‘Attainment on leaving Year 6 over the past three years has been above average.’ ‘The curriculum provides good breadth and balance. It is well enriched with trips and a wide range of extra clubs and activities that are appreciated and valued by pupils, parents and carers.’ 18

‘Pupils are polite and respectful to others.’ ‘Good relationships between pupils and their teachers are the norm.’ ‘By the time they leave Year 6, pupils have developed a strong set of moral values that influence the way they behave and act in their everyday lives.’ ‘They have a high degree of respect for the views of others and the differences that make each individual special.’ ‘Full equality for all is at the heart of the school’s work and results in outstanding care, guidance and support.’ ‘The school is extremely well organised and managed on a day to day basis.’ ‘Staff go to exceptional lengths to support individuals whose circumstances may make them vulnerable.’ ‘Outstanding attention is paid to safeguarding, resulting in pupils feeling exceptionally secure in school.’ The letter to the children from the inspection team includes the comment: ‘Your school just keeps getting better and better.’ A copy of the full report is available from the school or the Ofsted website.

OXON CE PRIMARY SCHOOL WEBSITE For more in-depth information about our school, please take a look at our website at www.oxon.shropshire.sch.uk.

19