New Parents
We aim for our school to:
Provide inspirational and enjoyable learning and be outstanding in Ofsted terms and in every sense of the word.
Highly qualified, experienced and dedicated staff are the most important resource for children’s learning. At Heron Hill our large team of teachers, teaching assistants and support staff work closely together to provide high quality educational experiences. Set in extensive grounds with lots of green space and sports fields, the school buildings have been developed to provide a rich and stimulating learning environment. The school is well appointed inside with traditional classrooms, practical activity areas, learning support rooms, libraries and many additional dedicated spaces for activities such as music, drama and a newly equipped ICT suite with computers for a whole class. All learning areas are very well resourced with interactive whiteboards and a comprehensive range of modern technology to further enhance learning opportunities.
Our high standards of presentation extend to our displays, furnishings and the materials we use. This contributes to a tidy, comfortable and safe environment in which everyone can realise their potential as learners. Additional opportunities are provided, both within the school day and afterwards, by peripatetic music teachers, sports coaches and providers of after school clubs. Good links with the wider community enable many children to participate in activities with other local schools and organisations. Close partnerships with providers of wraparound care based on our own site enables you to access quality care for your children both before and after school as well as through the school holidays.
Communication with Parents
Good communication between home and school is vital to ensure a happy and successful partnership.
We have a true open door policy as we recognise the importance of sharing information and encourage parents to keep us informed of any issues or concerns. In this way we can ensure we provide the best support we can for your child. In the case of absence you should inform school of the reasons as soon as possible. Most parents subscribe to our free “Parentmail” email and texting service which ensures efficient contact between home and school whilst reducing our environmental impact
Admissions and Transfers
We currently admit 60 pupils each year in Reception and Key Stage 1 and up to 64 per year group in Key Stage 2.
If the school has more applications for places than are available, the Local Authority’s admission policy is implemented. A copy of this policy can be obtained from the office or from Cumbria County Council. Children are eligible for admission to the Nursery at the beginning of the school term following their third birthday, and then into the Reception class in the September of the school year in which they are five (under the Local Authority policy admission to Nursery does not automatically entitle admission to the Reception class). Nursery and Reception open days are arranged to give prospective parents the opportunity to visit before applying for a place; alternatively visits can be arranged by contacting the school office. An induction process is in place to enable staff to get to know new children and for children to become familiar with our school. This includes staff visits to feeder nurseries and playgroups, visits to the school by children and parents and home visits. This induction procedure helps all children to make a positive start to their school life.
Secondary Liaison and Joint Working
We enjoy very good relationships with our partner secondary schools.
The headteachers meet on a regular basis and our teachers work in partnership with secondary colleagues both at Heron Hill and during visits to the secondary schools. At the age of eleven most Year 6 pupils transfer to Kirkbie Kendal School or Queen Katherine School for their secondary education; some choose other local secondary schools. There is considerable liaison to support children’s smooth transition into the next stage of their school career.
Wider Community Links
- We have a strong partnership with training providers for both teachers and teaching assistants.
- The curriculum is enriched through a variety of partnerships which include creative practitioners, our strong international links, the local church and the wider community.
- The school holds a number of events each year to support local, national and international charities. These help to raise our pupils’ awareness of the needs of others and develop them as future citizens. Children In Need, Comic Relief and the Christmas Shoe Box Appeal are but a few examples.
