School Aims
In Olderfleet Primary we have the following aims which we strive to achieve with all our pupils:
- To provide a range of intellectual, social, moral, spiritual and physical experiences appropriate to the age, ability and individual needs of our pupils. We will have high expectations and endeavour to provide access to high quality resources
- To provide opportunities for each individual to attain their maximum potential and to help prepare them to make informed and responsible decisions throughout their adult life
- To provide a caring, supportive and orderly environment where children can learn and be happy
- To promote good relationships between all who are part of the school and local community, recognising differences and developing caring attitudes to others
- To encourage opportunities for pupils to develop self-esteem, confidence in themselves as learners and the disposition and motivation to learn
Pastoral Care and Child Protection
We have a child centred approach to all we do at Olderfleet and an integral part of this is the close liaison between the parent, class teacher and Principal. It is essential that we are aware of any changes outside of school which may affect your child in school. Something considered “not very important” may in fact have a huge impact on how your child performs in school. Therefore, through open lines of communication, parents can make the class teacher aware of their concerns and vice versa.
By law we must have a “Child Protection” policy in school. This policy will be circulated to all parents every two years. A copy of this and our Anti-bullying policy are available, if required, from the office.
Child Protection
Child Protection Information for Parents
Parents who wish to highlight a concern should adhere to the following procedure.
I have a concern about my child’s safety.
I can talk to the class teacher
If I am still concerned, I can talk to Mr Harvey, Designated teacher for Child Protection and Safeguarding or the Deputy Designated teacher for Child Protection, Mrs Brownlees
If I am still concerned, I can talk / write to the Chair of the Board of Governors
At any time I can talk to the Social Worker
Moyle Community Services, Family and Child Care. Tel. 028 28275427 or the PSNI Public Protection Unit. Tel. 028 2566 7276
Other Aspects of School Life
Drugs Education programme
The Drugs Education programme will be delivered within specific curricular areas such as The World Around Us, RE, Literacy and Personal Development and Mutual Understanding. The school will also avail of appropriate external agencies to deliver a drugs awareness programme. The school has a policy in place and this may be obtained from the school office.
Pupil Behaviour
Part of growing up is learning what is acceptable and unacceptable and gradually taking responsibility for one‘s own behaviour. Our approach to discipline is to encourage and celebrate good behaviour and positive achievements in all children.
We have a code of conduct for behaviour and all staff ensure that pupils are encouraged to abide by the code.
- arrive at school on time
- wear the school uniform
- show respect to adults and other pupils
- be truthful, well mannered and kind
- co-operate with teachers and other staff
- do all their work in school and at home to the best of their ability
- take care of the school buildings, books and resources
- walk sensibly and quietly when in the classroom and corridors
- keep the school tidy and free from litter
- set a good example to others
Parental Involvement
We actively encourage parental involvement throughout all stages of your child’s education. It is vital that there are good lines of communication from the earliest days.
We aim to achieve this through the Year 1 induction sessions, Parent information afternoons in September, weekly newsletters, Parent Teacher meetings and where appropriate, curriculum information sessions.
Our school is supported by a very active Parents’ Association which meets regularly throughout the year to plan and organise a variety of fundraising and social events. The PA is an essential means of raising funds to purchase resources for the benefit of all pupils. We are always looking for new and willing members!
Break
We operate a Healthy Break policy and our pupils are encouraged to bring a piece of fruit, vegetable or sandwich to school for their break. They are also encouraged to drink water or purchase milk for drinking at breaktime.
Lunch
Pupils are able to go home for lunch, bring a packed lunch or have a school dinner. Pupils then have time to play in the playground, when they are supervised at all times.