Page 11 - Whitestone Primary School Prospectus

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We believe that the responsibility for the education and general development of the children should be shared by both school and home and we will work hard to promote and establish an effective partnership with families.
We try in various ways to keep you informed of your child’s progress. Parents evenings and ‘Meet the Teacher’ meetings take place, and regular newsletters keep you informed of what’s going on in addition to class assemblies which parents are invited to attend.
The school has an active Parent/Teacher Association (PTA). Meetings are held when necessary and are open to all. The PTA works hard to raise much needed funds which is rewarded by the many extras we are able to buy for the school.
Health & Safety
The governing body is committed to ensuring a high standard of health, safety and welfare for all staff, pupils, visitors and contractors. The Headteacher and caretaker regularly inspect the premises for hazards. All staff and pupils are actively involved in the safety provision within the school. A comprehensive Health and Safety Policy is in place, this includes relevant risk assessments and procedures.
The school has a comprehensive Fire Risk Assessment. Fire drills are carried out each term. All PE and play equipment, electrical appliances, fire extinguishers and emergency lighting are tested regularly by the relevant monitoring agencies. On hearing a fire alarm everyone on site must exit through the nearest fire exit and congregate on the Junior yard.
Security Arrangements
Security arrangements for pupils, staff and school premises are a priority. In the interests of safety, the school has security locks fitted to all external doors. These prevent unauthorised access from outside, whilst allowing easy access in an emergency. Visitors, including parents are requested to co-operate with this procedure, by:
• attending the school via the main entrance only; •
• reporting to the main office upon arrival; entering the teaching areas only with the consent of the Headteacher.
To further ensure the security of the children, the gate at the top end of West Cross lane will be locked from 9am until 11.50am. When the children have been collected from Nursery, the gate will be closed until 3pm for collection of children at the end of the school day. All other pedestrian access gates are locked between 9.00am and 3pm. Late arrivals to school should use the school driveway for access and should sign the late register in the school office. All visitors are requested to report to the secretary on arrival.
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