Prospectus

Welcome & AboutWelcome LetterMission StatementHistoryGovernors & Staff

CurriculumWhat Will My Child Learn?R.E. & Worship Educational VisitsExtra Curricular ActivitiesHomework

SupportHealth & WellbeingCaring For ChildrenEvery Child Matters Learning SupportClubsNursery

School StandardsAbsences From SchoolMedical/Dental AppointmentsSchool DisciplineUniformOfsted Report

School DetailsTimes of School DayTerms & HolidaysLunchtime ArrangementsSchool PartnershipsAdmissions Policy

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CONTENTS

Dear Parents/Carers,

We hope that the information in this booklet will help you to make the very important decision about which school your child should attend.

At St. Thomas’ we provide a secure, friendly and happy learning environment for all our children. We have a creative curriculum with high standards. The school was judged by Ofsted to be “outstanding” in June 2008. Our special Christian ethos permeates everything we do and was also judged to be “outstanding” by the church inspectors in the same year. We invite you to make an appointment to come and view our school for yourself.

We work closely with our partner provider, ‘First Class Nursery’, who operate from facilities which were refurbished on our site in July 2008. We can also offer Breakfast & After School Club care, plus Holiday Club provision in a purpose built room completed in 2011.

If your child is to join us for the first time, or if you already have a child here, we welcome you as parents and members of our school community and look forward to an effective partnership. We hope that you and your child will enjoy being part of our extended school family.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs. Ann Lock Mrs Jane DunnHead Teacher Chair of Governors

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ST. THOMAS’ is a Church of England (Voluntary Aided) School offering a high standard of primary education to girls and boys between the ages of four and eleven. The school is part of the active Maghull and District Community of Schools Networked Learning Community.

When children reach the age of 11, they usually transfer either to Deyes High School, St Hilda’s CE High School, Maricourt Catholic High School or Maghull High School, according to where they live or parental choice. Every effort is made to ensure a smooth transition.

MISSION STATEMENT OF ST. THOMAS’ C.E. SCHOOL

Our school has a Church of England foundation.

We promote Christian values of love, friendship, forgiveness and honesty within the school as exemplified by the life and teaching of Jesus Christ.

We value all children as individuals and educate them to a high standard according to their rights in law, whilst providing opportunities for the children to fulfil their potential mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, aesthetically and spiritually.

Jesus said: “Come, follow me and live your life the way God wants you to”

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IN ORDER TO FULFIL THIS MISSION STATEMENT OUR AIMS ARE:

•to create within our school a warm, friendly and stimulating environment centred on Jesus’ commandment to love

•to promote Christian values of love, forgiveness, honesty, friendship and community

•to ensure that all children receive a broad, balanced, relevant and differentiated curriculum, that meets National Curriculum requirements and is personalised to individual academic ability and emotional & social needs

•to develop lively, enquiring minds, the ability to question and think independently and to apply themselves with diligence and perseverance to tasks and physical skills

•to foster habits of independence, self-discipline, responsibility and acceptable behaviour

•to encourage children to relate to others in a caring and sensitive manner; we have a whole school approach to caring, and we value the contribution of all the adults, working as a team within our school

•to develop the partnership between home and school with regular communication between head teacher, teachers, governors, parents and the pre-school group

•to develop a secure knowledge of the Christian faith locally, nationally and internationally

•to provide equal opportunities in school to ensure that all children are treated with respect and receive their curriculum entitlement, regardless of their race, gender, culture, beliefs or disability

•to provide opportunity for the professional development of all staff

•to ensure that resources and finance are used efficiently in the realisation of the above aims

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Our Church of England School in Lydiate was formerly housed in premises in Southport Road, (now the Sheiling Rest Home), which is located in the grounds of the Grayson Memorial Hall (Lydiate Parish Hall). These premises were built in the year 1840. The foundation stone and original school bell can still both be seen in our current building.

In 2010, the school celebrated its 170 year anniversary and long service of providing a Christian education to the children of Lydiate and surrounding area. The school bell was founded in 1840 but the school actually started in 1839.

In July 1975 the School transferred to its present site on Kenyons Lane. In 2010 St Thomas’ underwent a major £300,000 refurbishment

programme providing us with a totally new front entrance, office facilities and two meeting rooms. A new conservatory for Reception was also built in Spring Term 2009 plus a new play area for KS2 (Juniors), which was upgraded in 2008.

We completed in Autumn 2010 a £135,000 extension at the rear of the building, which provides us with a purpose built “After School Club” facility. In 2012 the ICT suite was totally refurbished to a high standard.

The School has always been part of the Church of St. Thomas’ in the Parish of Lydiate and Downholland. This gives us the Christian Foundation on which all our activities are firmly based. The Rector of church is our Vice-Chair of Governors and leads worship in school regularly.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND1839-present

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The Governors have overall responsibility for the strategic direction of the school. They appointed the Head Teacher, Mrs Ann Lock in 2007 to be responsible for the day to day management of the school as well as determining the overall vision for the future. The Governors act within the framework set by national legislation and by the policies of the Local Authority. The Diocesan Board of Education for the Church of England also offers guidance and support. The Chair of Governors is Mrs Jane Dunn and the Vice-Chairs are Rev Paul Robinson and Mrs Jean Cropper.

The current members of the Governing Body are:-

NAME Mrs. J. Dunn Mrs. A Lock Rev. P Robinson Mrs. J. Cropper Mrs. H Stewart Mrs H. Robson Mr P Gradden Mr. M. Jones (Vacant) Mr A Wilson Mrs S Waddell Mr P Dickson (Vacant) Mrs. J. Hughes Mrs F Wooldridge

DESIGNATION

Chair of Governors

Head Teacher

Vice-ChairP.C.C. Representative & Vice-Chair P.C.C. Representative P.C.C. /Parent RepresentativeP.C.C./Parent RepresentativeDiocesan BoardDiocesan BoardParent Governor Parent GovernorParent GovernorTeaching Staff RepresentativeStaff RepresentativeLocal Authority Governor

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SCHOOL?

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TEACHERSMrs Ann LockHEADTEACHER

Mr Paul RobinsonDEPUTY HEAD TEACHER

Mr Mark WardASSISTANT HEAD TEACHER

Miss Laura NelsonLEARNING SUPPORT MANAGER

Mrs Rachel Cowen

Miss Hollie Cosgrove

Mrs Debbie Dickson

Mrs Ellen Warburton

Mrs Paula Weights

Miss Amanda Williamson

AREA OF RESPONSIBILITYReligious Education, Collective Worship, Child Protection, Professional Development, Governance

ICT Lead Teacher, Health & Safety, Educational Visits Coordinator, Curriculum Manager, Geography

Assessment & Data Manager, P.E. Lead Teacher

Special Learning Needs, Literacy Lead Teacher

Science, Story Sacks, Parent Liaison, Trainee, NQT Mentor

History Lead Teacher

Early Years, School Council, PSHCE, Well Being

Mathmatics Lead Teacher, Music Coordinator

R.E. Support

Design & Technology, Art, Eco, Dance

SUPPORT STAFFTEACHING ASSISTANTSMrs S Davies Mrs D Jamal Mrs J Corness Mrs D Stott Mrs P Edwards Miss L Cady

Mrs K Lockley (NNEB)

OFFICE MANAGER Mrs J HughesADMIN ASSISTANT Mrs A EadieCARETAKER Mr G PimblettCLEANERS Mrs G Minton Mrs D Breeze Mrs P DavisWELFARE ASSISTANTS Mrs D Breeze Mrs K Kirby Mrs J Corness Mrs P Edwards Mrs G Minton Mrs M Roberts Mrs J HerbertKITCHEN STAFF Mrs T Mitchell

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WHAT WILL YOUR CHILD LEARN?

In accordance with the National Curriculum, the school provides a balance of studies which promote the spiritual, moral, cultural, intellectual and physical development of children. Curricular areas taught include: Literacy, Numeracy, Science, Design and Technology, History, Geography, Music, Art, Physical Education and Religious Education, I.C.T and Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural Education.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION & COLLECTIVE WORSHIPWe are a Church of England (Aided) Primary School, and as expressed in our ‘Mission Statement’, we aim to be a community in which the ethos and curriculum reflect the Christian principles on which it is founded. We were inspected by Liverpool Diocese in 2008 and they concluded that our provision is “outstanding”.We hold collective worship every day. The Rector,

Rev Paul Robinson regularly leads worship including, once per half term a Family Eucharist .

Our Religious Education lessons are based on the syllabus provided by the Diocese of Liverpool.

Parents have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education lessons and Collective Worship. If you wish to do this, we would like to discuss alternative arrangements with you.

MUSICMusic plays a large part in the life of any school. Ours is no exception. Singing is one area where all children can, and are encouraged to participate. All children enjoy specialist-singing lessons in rotation provided by Sefton Music Support Service. Guitar lessons are very popular and offered weekly. In addition we have a violin group and school choir.

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PHYSICAL ACTIVITIESAll children have lessons in gymnastics, games, athletics & dance. Children from Y2 to Y6 have swimming lessons at the Meadows Leisure Centre.

The school also offers on an occasional basis:• football• basketball,• cricket,• rounders,• rock-climbing,• judo,• duathlon,• tag rugby,• orienteering,• athletics• tennisAll of the above activities are offered on a seasonal basis by a team of talented staff who work in collaboration with the school.

SEX EDUCATIONThe Governors have agreed that sex education should be part of the school curriculum. It is taught throughout the school as part of the Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education programme.

In Year 6, when the areas of puberty and human reproduction are discussed, they are taught within the family background of loving relationships. A number of DVD programmes are shown to the children on this subject, and these can be viewed by parents before they are introduced to the children. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from all, or part, of the sex education programme, except that which is part of the National Curriculum Science requirement.

EDUCATIONAL VISITSEducational visits are taken to places of interest to enhance curriculum work. These could be as near as the local park, Sefton Coast, or a destination where coach/train travel is necessary. The children benefit greatly from these experiences, both educationally and socially. There is usually one educational visit per term per class.

Parents are invited to make voluntary contributions to cover the cost of educational visits. Without this financial support, the visits could not take place. The Head Teacher has the right to cancel any trips if there are insufficient voluntary contributions. (Charging Policy 2012)

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Year 6 children also have the opportunity to go on a residential visit. At least 6 months’ notice is given so that the cost can be paid over a long period. No child will be excluded from these visits because of financial restrictions. However, if there are insufficient voluntary contributions the viability of a trip may have to be reassessed.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIESThere are a range of exciting activities offered to the children, both at lunch-times and after school. These may be organised for one or two terms, or as the need arises. As we are a small school, activities such as chess and dance club are rotated - often according to the season.

HOMEWORKWe expect all children to do some work at home. Two of the most important reasons for doing homework are that it develops good habits and self-discipline, and creates channels for home-school liaison. The amount of work expected varies according to the age of the child. In Year 6 we offer Revision Clubs. As a general guide, allow about 15 minutes per evening for reading and 15-20 minutes uninterrupted time for written/research activities e.g.:

Reception sharing books, reading, phonicsYear 1 sharing books, reading, handwriting, spelling & phonics, numeracyYear 2 sharing books, reading, handwriting, spelling & phonics, numeracyYear 3 reading, handwriting, spelling, tables, numeracyYear 4 reading, handwriting, spelling, tables, numeracyYear 5 reading, spelling, tables, literacy, numeracy, scienceYear 6 reading, spelling, tables, literacy, numeracy, science and appropriate research (see year page on school website)

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

MEDICINESShort Term Prescribed MedicinesPlease request your doctor to prescribe dose frequencies which can be taken outside of school hours e.g. morning, after school and bedtime.

Long Term Medical NeedsPlease arrange to see the Head Teacher regarding long term medical needs so that special arrangements can be made. We work with the school nurse and specialist nurses to implement individual care plans.

Non-Prescription MedicinesThese will not be administered by staff to children.

ASTHMAIf your child needs to use an inhaler, please ensure we are aware of the medication details. Inhalers will be kept in the classroom in accordance with medical guidance.

FIRST AIDA number of staff are qualified paediatric first aiders. All injuries sustained in school are treated carefully. If any injuries prove to be a cause for concern, parents will be contacted. If a child receives an accidental head injury whilst in school, but does not appear to suffer any ill-effects, a note will be sent with the child at home-time so that parents are aware of what has happened and can continue to watch for any symptoms which may occur.

DENTAL/MEDICAL APPOINTMENTSA note should be sent to inform the class teacher if any child has to be out of school for a dental or medical appointment. Parents or a named adult must come to reception to collect their child. Children are not allowed to leave school unaccompanied.

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CARING FOR CHILDREN

PASTORAL CARE At St. Thomas’ great care and concern are shown for all our children by everyone who works here. The class teacher is responsible to the Head Teacher for the welfare of all the children in the class. The school is in contact, as necessary, with other agencies concerned with the welfare of pupils - Education Welfare Officers, Social Workers and the School Psychology and Medical Services.

TRANSFER TO KEY STAGE 3Most of our pupils continue their education at one of the local high schools - Deyes High, Maghull High or Maricourt Catholic High School. There is a close working relationship between our school and all the High Schools during the year as they offer exceptional specialised lessons to our children by coming out to St Thomas’. All of these experiences help to make the transition to High School easier.

During the Autumn term in Year 6, your child will receive a form, on which you should indicate your choice of high school. This form should be returned directly to Sefton Local Authority Admissions. Later in the school year you will be informed of a place allocation. If you do not agree with the decision you can appeal to the Local Authority.

Both parents and children have the opportunity of visiting the local High Schools during Years 5 and 6. We have a close liaison with the secondary schools and they make regular visits into school in the summer term prior to transfer.

Parents may, of course, opt for a different secondary school for their child, but would have to make their own arrangements for visiting that school.

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CHILD PROTECTIONThe Head Teacher is the appointed Child Protection Person, assisted by the Deputy Head. As we have daily contact with the children, we are particularly well placed to observe outward signs of abuse, changes in behaviour or failure to develop within expected norms.

Parents should be aware, therefore, that where it appears to a member of our school staff that a child may be suffering in one of these ways, the school is required, as part of local child protection procedures, to report their concern to the Social Services Department immediately.

EVERY CHILD MATTERSAs educators we have a responsibility to the children in our care to pledge the following:

“provide a safe secure environment”

“help them to stay healthy”

“make a positive contribution to the community”

“help them achieve economic well being”

“to enable them to enjoy and achieve”

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At St. Thomas’ we believe that any children experiencing additional learning needs require care and support, so that their self-esteem and progress are enhanced.

Careful arrangements are made in school to ensure that teaching suits the different learning needs of each child.

Identifying Children with Special Educational NeedsThere is a positive and constructive attitude to children with special educational needs in the school. The main aim promoted by our special educational needs policy is to identify and assess individual needs as early as possible and to make suitable provision to meet those needs. Parents /carers are kept fully informed and have regular meetings with our Learning Support Manager, Miss Laura Nelson.

Provision for Special Educational Needs PupilsWe follow the national SEN Code of Practice. (A copy of this document is available in school). Parents are actively encouraged to participate in this identification and provision.

The admission of children with special educational needs will be subject to the terms of the School’s Admissions Policy but will also be subject to the Governors’ finding that:

• the school is suitable to the child’s age, ability and special educational needs,• the child’s presence will not affect the effective education of other children already in the school.

The Head Teacher and Learning Support Manager welcome parents/carers into school to discuss individual requirements of a child with additional or special needs. We maintain regular and frequent contact after admission to review any special arrangements.

The school is a single-storey building with wheelchair access to infant and junior playgrounds, the school field and the front entrance. All practicable support will be provided to help to overcome any barriers to learning so that all pupils can fully engage in school activities. We aim to give all children equal access to all aspects of the curriculum and school life.

LEARNING SUPPORT

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CLUBSSt Thomas’ provides high quality in house wrap-around child care both before and after school. We are proud of our excellent “Breakfast Club” and “After School Club” where the children receive the best possible care from a team of experienced school staff. There is a genuine “family” atmosphere, where stimulating activities are organised in a safe and healthy environment. We are also able to offer a “Holiday Club” during the school holidays.

“OVERALL THE QUALITY OF THE PROVISION IS GOOD” OFSTED 2010

Parents who are interested in these facilities should contact Mrs Stott on her mobile 07944 019 215 or leave a message via the school office.

Breakfast Club: 7.45am to 8.55am After School Club: 3.30pm to 5.30pm Holiday Club: 7.45am to 5.30pm

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“FIRST CLASS” NurseryMonday to Friday available all year around (bank holidays excluded) 8.00am to 6.00pm

Nursery education grants funding is available the term after a child’s third birthday.

Contact Number: 0151 531 1887 (Manager)

“First Class” Nursery provides a challenging, safe and caring environment for children from two and a half years old to school age. The staff are extremely well qualified and deliver a high quality EYFS curriculum which stretch the children’s imagina-tions and capture their interests. The OFSTED Report in 2011 noted that in all areas achievement was good.

The nursery provides an excellent stepping-stone to school life and the children who enter our Foundation Stage class are very well prepared for their transition.

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ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL

If your child is absent due to illness, please telephone the school so that we can record the reason. Please confirm this with a written note on your child’s return to school. If your child is unwell with diarrhoea and vomiting, please ensure that they are symptom free for 24 hours before returning to school. If children are ill in school, it is essential that we have an alternative telephone number to your own, in case we cannot contact you if your child needs to be taken from school. Please keep school informed of any changes to emergency contact details.

Please do not take holidays in term time as this is detrimental to your child’s progress in school. If this is unavoidable due to exceptional circumstances (e.g. bereavement, serious illness), a request should be made for an appointment to the Head Teacher before you contemplate booking a holiday. The Head Teacher may, for extraordinary reasons, grant leave of absence at her discretion. The school works in close collaboration with the Educational Welfare Team to ensure full school attendance.

DENTAL/MEDICAL APPOINTMENTSA note should be sent to inform the class teacher if any child has to be out of school for a dental or medical appointment. Parents or a named adult must come to reception to collect their child. Children are not allowed to leave school unaccompanied.

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SCHOOL DISCIPLINEThe emphasis in our school is on positive praise and encouragement. We use daily rewards and at the end of each week, in assembly, certificates or badges are awarded to those who have worked hard, or have been particularly helpful, or have been kind and thoughtful. Every Monday, Head Teacher certificates are awarded for children who have made an exceptional effort the previous week. “Steps to Success” is used to reward positive behaviour.

Formal rules are few. The children are encouraged to develop self-discipline and to have respect for others and themselves, and to take pride in their school and their community.

The school’s Behaviour Policy states that unacceptable behaviour, including bullying, is viewed seriously and appropriate action will be taken.

Parents are at liberty to read the School’s Behaviour Policy on request. Printed below is our code of conduct agreed by Governors, Staff and children:

We will be...

Sensible

Trustworthy

Thoughtful

Hardworking

Obedient

Magnanimous

Attentive

Sharing

There is no place in our school for...

Bullying

Aggression

Dishonesty

We will treat other people as we would expect them to treat us.

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SCHOOL UNIFORM

The school has a strong reputation for the smart appearance of the children. We promote the importance of personal presentation as part of education for life. We are very proud of our distinctive navy jumpers with red trim. Winter Uniform should be worn during the Autumn & Spring Terms.

BOYS’ - WINTERGrey trousers - long or short, grey socks, white shirt, red tie, all generally available. Navy pullover with red trim, available from John Lewis Liverpool One & Premier Sports, Ormskirk.

BOYS’ - SUMMER Pale blue polo shirt with school badge are available from Premier Sports Ormskirk.

GIRLS’ - WINTERGrey skirt, or tailored trousers, white/grey socks, grey/black plain tights, white blouse, red tie, all generally available. Navy pullover/cardigan with red trim, available from John Lewis Liverpool One or Premier Sports, Ormskirk.

GIRLS’ SUMMER Pale blue gingham dress, navy cardigan with red trim or pullover as above.

SCHOOL COAT (Optional)Navy blue reversible coat with school badge available from Premier Sports, Ormskirk.

FOOTWEARSensible Black Shoes must be worn. Trainers and boots are not acceptable footwear for everyday use in school. Velcro fasteners are preferable for infants.

HAIRChildren with hair reaching shoulder length will be asked to tie it back with a band in school colours. For health and safety reasons, NO JEWELLERY SHOULD BE WORN IN SCHOOL except for a wristwatch only from Year 2 (educational reasons) which must be removed before any physical education activity. (No earrings are allowed)

P. E. KIT (Infants KS1) White T-shirt with school logo available from Premier Sports, Ormskirk, navy shorts, black pumps with elastic/Velcro.

P.E KIT (Juniors KS2) White t-shirt with school logo available from Premier Sports, Ormskirk, navy shorts, black pumps.

PUMP BAGS These items should be kept in a navy blue drawstring bag with the child’s name clearly visible. Pump bags are available with school badge from Premier Sports.

OUTDOOR GAMES KIT FOR KS2Children playing football will need football boots or trainers. Navy Blue Track suits may be worn when the weather becomes very cold. These are generally available or with school badge on from Premier Sports Ormskirk. Trainers may be worn for games lessons.

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OFSTED SUMMARY REPORT JUNE 2008*

Overall effectiveness of the school Grade 1 “Outstanding”

• “Relative to their broadly average starting points, pupils make outstanding progress”• ”By the time pupils leave Year 6 they attain exceptionally high standards in

English, mathematics and science” • “The quality of teachers’ questioning is outstanding and this enables pupils to

reach the very high expectations that are set for them”• “Pupils’ contribution to the local and worldwide community is outstanding” • “The school provides excellent value for money and has an outstanding capacity

to improve”

Effectiveness of Foundation Stage Grade 2 “Good”

“They make good progress in their knowledge and understanding of the world and their mathematical, creative and physical development with the result that by the end of the Foundation Stage most pupils have reached the early learning goals and some have exceeded them”.

Achievement & Standards Grade 1 “Outstanding”

Leadership & Management Grade 1 “Outstanding”

“Your school is outstanding. That means that it is one of the best in the country and you are right to be so proud of it! You make excellent progress and reach standards that are well above average nationally, that is because many of your lessons are outstanding. Your teachers work very hard to make learning exciting and interesting. You are very well prepared for your future lives and make an outstanding contribution to the school and local community”

Allan Torr

Her Majesty’s InspectorPublished June 2008

* The full report can be accessed on the school website: www.stthomaslydiate.co.uk

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TIMES OF THE SCHOOL DAY

Foundation and Key Stage One (Reception, Year 1 and Year 2)MORNING SESSIONS AFTERNOON SESSIONS 9.00 am – 10.25 am 1.10 pm – 2.15 pm10.45 am – 12.05 pm 2.30 pm – 3.25 pm

Key Stage Two (Years 3 - 6)MORNING SESSIONS AFTERNOON SESSIONS 9.00 am – 10.30 am 1.10 pm – 2.15 pm10.45 am – 12.10 pm 2.25 pm – 3.30 pm

It is essential that children arrive at school on time. They should not arrive at school before the doors open at 8.50 am but should arrive no later than 9.00 am when registration starts.

SCHOOL TERMS AND HOLIDAYS

Please check the school website for up to date informationwww.stthomaslydiate.co.uk

LUNCHTIME ARRANGEMENTSChildren may have a school dinner in the hall or alternatively, bring a packed lunch. The school dinners are catered for by “Yummy Catering” from Aughton and are excellent quality. Meals are paid for in advance on the Friday of the week before. Dinner money (either cash or cheque) should be brought in an envelope clearly marked with the child’s name, class and amount of money. Cheques should be made payable to “Sefton M.B.C.” Water is served with lunch.

Packed lunches should be brought to school in a simple small container clearly marked with the child’s name. Carton drinks may be brought, but for reasons of safety, drinks in glass bottles or cans are not allowed. As we want to encourage healthy eating, please do not put sweets or chocolate in your child’s lunch box.

Children staying for lunch will be supervised by staff and the welfare team who take an active role in maintaining the good standards of behaviour we expect from all our children.

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PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATIONWe have a very active PTA that is open to all parents to join. Parents and staff work very closely together to organise special fund raising events, which enable us to purchase extra equipment and facilities for our children. The PTA sends home regular news letters which keep you informed and updated of all events. We encourage active involvement by all families either through helping directly or by supporting the events. The PTA really do make a tremendous difference to the quality of our children’s education by all the extras which they can provide. In the last five years they have given school over £50,000 to buy new computers and equipment.

COMMUNITY LINKSSt Thomas’ School has very active links with various community projects. Our aim is to encourage St Thomas’ pupils to be outward looking and to develop a sense of responsibility towards their neighbours near and far. We pray that our children grow up to consider others with the love of Christ.

CHURCH LINKSOur school is very closely associated with St Thomas’ Church in Lydiate. We encourage our children and their families, whenever they can, to attend family services together, especially on Church Parade Sundays. Our school has some end of term services in St Thomas’ Church and during term time, our Rector, Rev. Paul Robinson comes to school to lead worship on a regular basis.

SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS

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ADMISSIONS POLICY

The Admissions Number for the school is 30(Revised May 2012)

Admissions to the Reception class will usually be in the September at the beginning of the school year in which the child will reach his/her 5th birthday. However, parents who have been offered a place may, if they wish, defer their child’s entry to school until the child is of compulsory school age, as long as the place is taken up within the same school year. The parents should provide a firm letter of intent to the Headteacher in order that a place is reserved for that child. The child will not be disadvantaged in terms of Admissions Procedures by this.

(1) If there are less than 30 applicants, all children will be offered a place, which should be formally accepted by a given date.

(2) After this date, any additional children wanting the available places will be accepted in order of date of application until the number reaches 30. After this, names will be placed on a waiting list, with no guarantee of a place unless one of the already accepted places becomes available.

(3) Should there be a greater demand for places than the 30 available the following priorities for admission will apply:

Category 1 Children in Public CareThis includes any “looked after child” and any child who was previously looked after but immediately after being looked after became subject to an adoption, residences or special guardianship order.

Category 2Children who have a sibling including half brother/sister, foster brother/sister, children living at the same address and considered to be part of the same family unit currently attending the school and who will still be there at the start of the academic year in which the child takes up his/her place.

Category 3Children of parents who are members of a Christian Church. Admission will be based on the following three tier system:

3a At the heart of the Church (a regular worshipper who attends Church once a week or more).3b Attached to the Church (someone who attends Church fairly frequently not less than twice a month)3c Occasional worshipper (e.g. attends Church not less than once a month)

Parents will be required to make an appointment for a joint meeting with their vicar, priest, minister or pastor confirming which category of church membership that they belong to. Evidence for this will be submitted on a faith reference form.

Category 4Other Children:In the event of over subscription in the number of applications made under any of the categories above then the admissions committee will offer places first to children living nearest to the school measured by the shortest walking distance from the child’s home to the nearest school gate using the methodology of measurement adopted by the Local Authority. EvidenceIn the event that the school is oversubscribed and Church attendance is the criterion to be applied applicants must submit a letter from their vicar, priest, minister or pastor confirming that the criterion is satisfied.

Twins & TripletsWhere there are twins or triplets wanting admissions and there is only a single place left within the admission number, then the governing body will exercise as much flexibility as possible with the requirements of infant class sizes. In exceptional circumstances we are now able to offer places for both twins and all triplets, even when this means breaching infant class size limits. This may also apply to siblings who are in the same year group.

Armed ForcesChildren of armed forces personnel may be admitted under an “excepted pupil” category even if it takes the infant class over the 30 child legal limit.

Older ChildrenParents wanting their child to be accepted into the school in any year other than Reception will be offered a place in accordance with School’s ‘in year admissions arrangements’ if there are places available in that year group. (Infant class size legal limit 30)

Equality Duty

The Governors are aware of their duty to monitor equality. Adverse impact is probable or certain for particular groups but the policy as a whole can be justified because as a voluntary aided church school the Governors can admit using faith criteria.

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St Thomas’ Church of England Primary SchoolKenyons Lane, Lydiate, Merseyside, L31 0BP

Tel: 0151 531 9955Fax: 0151 526 6189

email: admin.stthomas@schools.sefton.gov.ukwebsite: www.stthomaslydiate.co.uk