WELCOME!!!

We are  a small and friendly village school in the Peak District.

About 33 children are taught here in two classes, in a lively, bright and cheerful environment.

The school is an important part of the community and is involved with many of the social activities and traditions of the village.

As a Church of England school, Winster School aims to provide an education of the highest quality, whilst encouraging positive, moral behaviour and attitudes. We encourage the children to: ·         develop lively, inquiring minds, the ability to question and to argue rationally ·         achieve their full potential ·         acquire and apply knowledge and skills to help prepare them for all aspects of life ·         adopt reasoned attitudes, tolerance and understanding of others ·         gain self-respect, independence and self-motivation ·         make their contribution to society and the welfare of others

Curriculum Policy Statement The school delivers the National Curriculum and Foundation subjects using a mix of subject, thematic and cross-curricular approaches. It is part of school policy to meet the needs of the whole child.  We are committed to policies such as Personal and Social Education, and Community Education. A policy of equal opportunity for all children is pursued.  The school aims to meet the needs of all children regardless of gender, race and religion.

We have excellent resources and facilities which include:

• the Top Start programme for Reception Year children, designed to encourage physical development

• a purpose built and well-stocked library, which can be used as an additional classroom

• a computer room containing 11 computers with internet access, and 4 additional computers in the classrooms and library

• extensive sporting facilities adjacent to the school - comprising an all-weather multi-purpose pitch, hard play area and a large sports field

• indoor PE facilities based at the Burton Institute (the village hall)

• weekly swimming lessons for all Juniors at Matlock swimming pool

The admission dates for reception children are September or January each year.  All children will start school on a full time basis and the admission dates are according to dates of birth:

·         children whose 5th birthday falls between 1 September and 30 April will start school in September

·         children whose 5th birthday falls between 1 May and 31 August will start school in January

If a parent feels a child is not ready for full time school, the child can remain at nursery or Pre-school until the child reaches the statutory school starting age (the term following the child’s 5th birthday).

Starting school is a major step in your child's life.  You can help to ease this step and allow your child to approach his/her new surroundings and friends with confidence.  In the few weeks before your child starts school please:

·         use the class teacher's name as often as possible to make the teacher a real person to your child

·         help your child learn to dress and undress and to put on and take off their own shoes.  Try to choose clothes which are easy to manage

·         make sure that your child can use the toilet without help

·         encourage your child to eat a variety of foods, to use a knife and fork at meal times and to have the confidence to eat away from their own home

·         give your child practice at understanding and answering simple questions and carrying messages

In the Infant Class your child will be taught to write letters and numerals in the way shown at the back of the prospectus.  If you wish to work with your child please use this method so as to avoid confusion!

The school staff are always available and willing to help you with any concerns you may have about the education and welfare of your child.