St James the Great R.C (V.A) Primary & Nursery School

Notes for Parents Year 3

Literacy and Numeracy:
Literacy and Numeracy groups are set across the year group. Children are placed in the ability group that is most suited to their needs. It must be emphasised that grouping for these subjects is flexible and children's performance within their ability group will be reviewed on a regular basis.

Topic Cycle
Year 3 will cover the following topics this year:
Plants/Teeth/Materials/Magnets and Springs/Light and Shadow/Rocks and Soil (all Science led)
Romans - History led
Thornton Heath and Dorking (Settlement and facts about British Isles) - Geography led

(Parents should note, however, that the Numeracy and Literacy development mean that less time can be given to such topics and accordingly they may not be covered to the same degree as in the past.)

Educational visits planned
Butser Ancient Working Farm
Lullingstone Roman Villa
River Thames and Bridges
Boxhill and Dorking

(Please note that a number of parent volunteer helpers are needed for these trips which will not be able to proceed without such support.)

PE
Parents are required to adhere to the school uniform policy in equipping their children for these lessons. Kit must be in school Monday to Friday to enable children's full participation. Children may wear a track suit for outdoor PE. This should be navy bottoms and a school issue top.
In the interest of safety girls with longer hair are asked to tie it back.
Reminder: jewellery may not be worn, with the exception of stud earrings for girls.

Homework
Details of the range of homework assignments are detailed in the school homework policy. We would appreciate your support in signing homework books where appropriate.

Uniform
Please ensure that your child wears the correct school uniform at all times and inform the school promptly if there are difficulties with this. We would remind you that the school's dress code extends to regulation in regard to hairstyles.

Discipline
In addition to the school rules each class generates its own agreed rules. Good work, behaviour and effort are rewarded with praise and team points. We operate a tick system throughout the school to address inappropriate behaviour.

Communications
Please endeavour wherever possible to make an appointment to see the teacher. We would also ask you to check regularly whether your child has brought home any communication from school e.g. Newsletter.

Arrival at school
Please do not leave children in school unattended before 9 o'clock as no supervision is available. Children who attend clubs, pre-school and after school, will be advised as to what time they need to be in school.

SEN
Children with special educational needs are supported in class within the literacy hour structure. The school's Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator, Mrs Tuck supports a number of SEN pupils throughout the school as appropriate, either in class or by withdrawal. IEPs are available for signing in the Special Needs Room.