SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

PASTORAL

The class teacher is primarily responsible for the welfare of the children in his/her class.  Support is available from our welfare assistants who deal with medical problems and keep a careful check on daily attendance.  Senior staff, the deputies and the head all share responsibility for welfare and counselling matters.  We also receive support, as necessary, from borough agencies.

Parents who wish to discuss issues relating to a child’s welfare are always welcomed.  Similarly, staff will contact parents of children who are observed to have problems at school.

School policies on pastoral and health and safety issues are available at the school.

EXPECTED BEHAVIOUR IN SCHOOL

In school we have clear rules:

we expect children to be polite to all adults and each other;
we aim to develop respect and self-esteem in all children;
we encourage in children a sense of respect for others and their property;
we condemn bullying in all its forms - spoken, physical or mental - and believe all incidents are of a serious nature.

Appropriate action will always be taken in line with school policy.  It is hoped that our parents will support and reinforce this view.

ACHIEVEMENTS, REWARDS AND DISCIPLINE

The emphasis at Gifford is on positive achievement and there are individual and class awards.

Good behaviour and a positive attitude to work are rewarded in line with the school policy on rewards and discipline.

Children who misbehave or who are not working to capacity are dealt with by their class teacher.  If performance does not improve senior staff will also set targets for the children.  If the poor attitude continues then the deputy head will monitor the child by means of a weekly report.  If this brings no improvement then the head will consult with parent so that we can work together to rectify the problem.

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