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Induction to School Reception 2020 Reception 2020 Reception Meeting 2020 Handbook 2020

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Miss Cowings – Head Teacher Mr Carroll – Deputy Head / Pastoral Faculty Leader Miss Finnegan – Assistant Head / Science Faculty Miss A Hulse– SENCO ​ ​ Miss Z Boron - 6ZB Teacher Mrs K Harston – 6KH Teacher / Maths Co-ordinator Mrs L Canning - 6LC Teacher Mrs M Kerrigan – Year 6 Teaching Assistant ​ Mrs C Brownhill – 5CB Teacher Ms F Mohamed - 5FM Teacher Miss C Grant - 5CG Teacher / MFL Co-ordinator Mr E Baker - Year 5 Teacher / PPA Mrs McCartan – Year 5 Teaching Assistant ​ ​ Miss K Lakin – 4KL Teacher / English Co-ordinator KS2 Mr A Markham-Jones – 4AMJ Teacher / PE Co-ordinator Mr R Wayne - 4RW Teacher / Topic Co-ordinator Mrs Yakoob - Year 4 Teaching Assistant ​ ​ Miss E GIbbs - 3EG Teacher Miss C Manders - 3CM Teacher / ICT Co-ordinator Miss O Bowden – 3OB Teacher Mrs Colclough – Year 3 Teaching Assistant Ms Baker – Year 3 Teaching Assistant ​ Ms Corkery – Year 3 Teacher ​ Mrs Docker – Support Teacher Ms Ryan - Teacher Mr E Baker - Teacher Mrs Lennon - Teacher ​ Mrs S Hussain - 2SH Teacher Mrs E Hill - 2EH / RE Co-ordinator Miss E Oldham - 2EO Teacher Mrs S Richards– Year 2 Teaching Assistant Mrs J Robinson – Year 2 Teaching Assistant ​ Miss O’Toole – 1CO'T Teacher / English Co-ordinator KS1 Miss A Shally - 1AS Teacher Mrs Clarke – Year 1 Teaching Assistant Mrs Begum – Year 1 Teaching Assistant ​ Mrs Jones – RSJ Reception Teacher / EYFS Co-ordinator Miss C Belcher - RCB Reception Teacher Miss L Coley - RLC Reception Teacher Ms T O'Neil – RLC Reception Teaching Assistant Ms O’Brien – RSJ Teaching Assistant Mrs Heeley – RCB Reception Teaching Assistant Ms Morgan - SEN Teaching Assistant Miss B White - SEN Teaching Assistant Mrs J Lewis – SEN Support ​ Miss S Deards - Nursery Teacher Miss E Barron – Nursery Teaching Assistant Mrs S Buchanan - Nursery Teaching Assistant Mrs A Robbins - Nursery Teaching Assistant ​ Mrs Shalvey – Learning Mentor / PSA Mrs Payne – Learning Mentor ​ Mrs Smallwood – Office Mrs Byng – Office Miss K O'Neil – Office ​ ​ Mrs Apted – Technician Mr Abbott – ICT Operations Manager Mr Malone – Building Site Supervisor Mrs Worth - School Cook ​ St. Bernadette's Staff Our Favourite Books EYFS Miss Deards Nursery Teacher My favourite book is The Last Bear by Hannah Gold Mrs Buchanan Nursery Teaching Assistant I’ve always loved this book, it allows me to unlock core memories of being a child reading this book with my family. Rereading ‘The Twits’ now, I am reminded that there is also a lesson in it; how we can overcome our differences and achieve common goals by being kind to one another. Mrs Robbins Nursery Teaching Assistant My favourite children's book at the moment is 'Oi Frog', by Kes Gray and Jim Field. I love that each animal's designated seat rhymes with their name. Miss Barron Nursery Teaching Assistant As a child I enjoyed that Lewis Carroll was able to create a colourful and wacky world that invited you to use your imagination. As an adult I enjoy it even more now that I can read it and feel like a child again diving into a world of discovery where normal rules do not apply. Mrs O'Brien Reception Teaching Assistant My favourite story book to read in Nursery is, Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson. The story is fast paced with a great structured repeated refrain. I love the build up to the scary Dragon wanting to eat the Witch and how everyone works together to save the day! Mrs Jones Reception Teacher My favourite book is 'The Twits' by Roald Dahl Miss Belcher Reception Teacher My favourite book is 'The Tiger Who Came to Tea' by Judith Kerr Mrs Lewis Reception Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'Stick Man' by Julia Donaldson Mrs ONeill Reception Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'Stick Man' by Julia Donaldson Miss Baker Year 3 Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'Fantastic Mr Fox' by Roald Dahl Mrs Healey Reception Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'Room on the Broom' by Julia Donaldson KS1 Miss Shally Year 1 Teacher My favourite book is 'The Elephant Detectives' by Ged Adamson Miss O'Toole Year 1 Teacher My favourite book is 'Matilda' by Roald Dahl Mrs Clarke Year 1 Teaching Assistant My favourite book as a child was The Tale of Peter Rabbit . I used to love reading about Peter's adventures and would imagine that I was actually one of Peter's friends, helping him when he got into mischief Mrs Begum Year 1 Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'Elmer' by David M'Kee Mrs Robinson Year 2 Teaching Assistant My favourite book as a child was The Enchanted wood by Enid Blyton. A wonderful book full of amazing characters, and adventures. Mrs Hussain Year 2 Teacher The Missing Piece by Jordan Stephens and Beth Suzanna. It's a lovely book about belonging and finding what makes you really happy. It has diverse characters in the illustrations and is wonderful as it allows some children to see themselves in literature. KS2 Miss Bowden Year 3 Teacher My favourite book is Matilda by Roald Dahl. Mrs Hill Year 2 Teacher My favourite books as a child were the Famous Five series. I liked all of the adventure and mystery that the children and their dog Timmy had. I still enjoy reading mystery and adventure stories now. Miss Manders Year 3 Teacher My favourite book is 'The Magic Faraway Tree' by Enid Blyton Mrs Colclough Year 3 Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'The Shark Caller' by Zillah Bethell Miss Gibbs Year 3 Teacher My favourite book as a child was Charlotte’s web. It tells the tale of a budding friendship between two unlikely characters. I enjoyed reading this book as a child as I loved seeing how these two very different characters became friends. There are some sad parts to the story but it includes many joyful examples of great friendship and even a small touch of adventure. Mr Wayne Year 4 Teacher Harry Potter has always been a fascination. You could be sat in a park, and you could transport yourself to a world of magic and wonder. Take a trip to the Gryffindor common room, roam around the Hogwarts grounds or explore the ominous forbidden forest- the possibilities are endless. The characters are relatable as they progress from child to young adult, and this can resonate with everyone as they grow up. Astonishingly, the idea that J K Rowling created her magical world on the back of napkins, on the way to meetings and in coffee shops makes it even more spontaneous and special. I think everyone single one of us can see ourselves in the Harry Potter characters. Sometimes a trip into a fantasy world can be the perfect remedy for a bad day. Mrs Brownhill Year 5 Teacher One of my favourite books as a child was Esio Trot by Roald Dahl. I loved Mr. Hoppy, how much he adored Mrs Silver and thought his magic spell to make Alfie the tortoise 'grow' was so silly that it actually was genius! Mr Baker Year 5 Teacher My favourite book is 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkein Miss Grant Year 5 Teacher My favourite book is 'A LIon in Paris' by Beatrice Alemagna Mrs McCartan Year 5 Teaching Assistant My favourite book is 'The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe' by C.S. Lewis Miss Boron Year 6 Teacher My favourite book is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkein Mr Markham-Jones Year 4 Teacher My favourite book is 'The Twits' by Roald Dahl Miss Lakin Year 4 Teacher A book I first discovered with my Y6 class and would now consider to be one of my favourite children's books is Refugee by Alan Gratz. This historical fiction features three stories in one, following the lives of three refugee children in three different geographic locations and points in time. All main characters go on harrowing journeys in search of refugee with a twist at the end that took me completely by surprise! This is a must read for older children and there is always a copy on the bookshelf in my classroom. Mrs Ryan PPA Teacher My favourite book is 'When I See Blue' by Lily Bailey Mrs Ryan PPA Teacher My favourite book is 'When I See Blue' by Lily Bailey Mrs Docker PPA Teacher My favourite book is 'Danny The Champion of the World' by Roald Dahl Mrs Lennon PPA Teacher My favourite book is Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. I love it because it tells the tale of an unlikely but ultimately beautiful friendship. SLT Miss Cowings Head Teacher My Favourite book was Black Beauty by Anna Sewell. As a young child I adored horses and would read widely many non fiction books about caring for horses. When I discovered Black Beauty, my emotions were turned upside down, as some chapters made me smile and others made me cry. I would recommend this book to children from the age of 7 years upwards. Mr Carroll Assistant Head Teacher My favourite book is 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' by John Boyn Miss E Finnegan Assistant Head Teacher Take your seat in the front row as this book flips the story of ‘The Three Little Pigs’ on its head! Follow this story as three circus pigs make a wild wolf do all manner of things! This is a story my daughter and I read nearly every night, the illustrations are spectacular and convey wonderful humour and emotions! Miss Hulse SEN Co-ordinator Harmony’s uncle sends her on a treasure hunt. She finds a magical fifty pence coin, which grants seven wishes! What would you wish for?

A-Z of Composers A-Z of Composers: List Isaac Albéniz Isaac Manuel Francisco Albéniz y, more commonly known as Isaac Albéniz, was born on 29th May 1860 in Camprodon, Catalonia, Spain and died on 18th May 1909 in France. To classical guitarists the world over, he is known for his quintessential Spanish guitar repertoire. My younger brother, who is a professional guitarist himself, has been playing his pieces since childhood. Few realise that he was not actually a guitarist at all, but was in fact a virtuoso pianist, composer, and conductor. He is best known for his piano works often based on Spanish folk music. Despite composing mostly for the piano, it is his transcriptions for guitar that are most well known today – particularly works such as Asturias (Leyenda), Granada, Sevilla, Cadiz, Córdoba, Cataluña, Mallorca, and Tango in D. Johann Sebastian Bach Johann Sebastian Bach was a German composer and musician who was born in March 1685 and died in July 1750. This was a period of musical history known as the Baroque. He is perhaps the most well-known of the famous Bach family of musicians: Johann Christoph Bach (1642–1703), Johann Michael Bach (1648–1694), Maria Barbara Bach (1684–1720), Wilhelm Friedemann Bach (1710–1784), Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (1714–1788) to name just a few. He is known for instrumental compositions such as the Art of Fugue, the Brandenburg Concertos, and the Goldberg Variations, and for vocal music such as the St Matthew Passion and the Mass in B minor. A master of the keyboard, Bach gifted the world such gems as The Well-Tempered Clavier and organ works too numerous to name individually. Since the 19th-century Bach Revival he has been generally regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Western art musical canon. Here are links to some of these great pieces. Mr Baker Sept 2019 Art of Fugue Brandenburg Concertos Goldberg Variations St Matthew Passion Mass in B minor The Well-Tempered Clavier Cello Suites 1 – 6 Air on the G string Chaconne, Partita No. 2 BWV 1004 (violin) Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565 Cream (Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker & Jack Bruce) The great drummer Ginger Baker died on 6th October this year aged 80 and so it seemed fitting to continue the musical A-Z with the group he was perhaps most famous for being in – Cream. Cream were a British rock band formed in London in 1966. The group consisted of bassist Jack Bruce, guitarist Eric Clapton, and drummer Ginger Baker. Bruce was the main songwriter and vocalist, although Clapton and Baker also sang and contributed songs. Formed from members of previously successful bands, they are widely regarded as the world's first supergroup as each player was considered to a master of their instrument. Their music spanned many genres of rock music, including blues rock, psychedelic rock, and hard rock. In their career, they sold more than 15 million records worldwide. The group's third album, Wheels of Fire (1968), is the world's first platinum-selling double album. In 1993, Cream were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Here are links to three of their more famous songs. Mr Baker Sept 2019 White Room Sunshine of your Love I Feel Free ​ Claude Debussy Claude Debussy was born 22 August 1862 and died aged just 55 on 25 March 1918. He is regarded as one of the greatest French composers of all time. He is sometimes seen as the first Impressionist composer, seeking to paint pictures in the mind of his listeners by the quality of the sounds they hear. Despite being born to a family of modest means and little cultural involvement, Debussy showed enough musical talent to be admitted at the age of ten to France's leading music college, the Conservatoire de Paris. He originally studied the piano, but found his vocation in innovative composition, despite the disapproval of the Conservatoire's conservative professors. Debussy is responsible for some of the most recognisable piano and orchestral music of the twentieth century. He himself was influenced by Russian and far-eastern musical styles and he in his turn was to be a great influence on later composers such as Bartok, Messiaen and George Benjamin. All his music is easy to listen to but here are some links to some of my favourites. Mr Baker January 2020 La Mer La boîte à joujoux Fantaisie for piano and orchestra Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune Syrinx (for solo flute) Claire de Lune La fille aux cheveux de lin Deux arabesques Children's Corner Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp Edward Elgar Sir Edward William Elgar was born 2 June 1857 and died 23 February 1934. ​ He was an English composer who many consider to be one of our greatest. Many of his works have entered the British and international classical concert repertoire. Among his best-known compositions are orchestral works including the Enigma Variations (including the world famous ‘Nimrod’ often played during remembrance services), the Pomp and Circumstance Marches (including ‘Land of Hope and Glory’ – played every year at the Last Night of the Proms), concertos for violin and cello, and two symphonies. He also composed choral works, including The Dream of Gerontius (based on a poem by Birmingham’s Saint John Henry Newman and first performed in Birmingham’s Town Hall in the year 1900), chamber music and songs. He was appointed Master of the King's Musick in 1924. Although Elgar is often regarded as a typically English composer, most of his musical influences were not from England but from continental Europe. He felt himself to be an outsider. It is worth noting that this self-taught composer was openly Catholic in a Protestant Britain where his Roman Catholicism was regarded with suspicion in some quarters. He never forgot his humble beginnings even when he became successful and achieved recognition for his music. Elgar has been described as the first composer to take the gramophone and recorded music seriously. Between 1914 and 1925, he conducted a series of acoustic recordings of his works. The introduction of the moving-coil microphone in 1923 made far more accurate sound reproduction possible, and Elgar made new recordings of most of his major orchestral works and excerpts from The Dream of Gerontius. Mr Baker February 2020 Nimrod Enigma Variations (complete) Pomp and Circumstance Marches 1 – 4 Pomp and Circumstance March no 1 (from the proms ) Dream of Gerontius Gabriel Fauré Gabriel Urbain Fauré was born on 12th May 1845 and died on 4th November 1924 in Pamiers, Ariège, in the south of France. He was a composer, organist, pianist and teacher. He was one of the most important French composers of his generation, and his musical style influenced many 20th-century composers such as Ravel. ​ Fauré’s was not an especially musical family, but his talent became clear when he was just a small boy. Aged nine, he was sent to the Ecole Niedermeyer music college in Paris, where he was trained to be a church organist and choirmaster. Among his teachers was Camille Saint-Saëns (himself a famous composer of such works as ‘The Swan’ ), who became a lifelong friend. After graduating from the college in 1865, he made his living as an organist and teacher, leaving him little time for composition, so he didn’t become a successful composer until his middle age years. ​ Towards the end of his life, Fauré was recognised in France as the leading French composer of his day and a national musical tribute was held for him in Paris in 1922. Outside France, Fauré's music took many years to become widely accepted, except in Britain, where his work was greatly admired during his lifetime. Fauré's earlier works are among his most accessible and below are some YouTube links to his more famous pieces Mr Baker August 2020 Pavane Op.50 - Piano Solo Pavane Op.50 – Orchestral Version ​ Sicilienne. ​ Requiem Op. 48 ​ Dolly Suite Op. 56 ​ Cantique de Jean Racine, Op. 11 ​ Après un rêve for cello & piano ​ Percy Grainger Percy Grainger was born on the 8 July 1882 and died on 20 February 1961. He was an Australian-born composer, arranger and pianist who, in his adult years, lived in America and became an American citizen in 1918. During his career, he played an important role in reviving the public’s interest in British folk music in the early years of the 20th century. It is highly likely that many will be familiar with his piano and orchestral arrangements such as the folk-dance tune "Country Gardens" among others. It is these well-known folk gems and stylistically similar compositions that I will link to here. Mr Baker August 2020 Molly on the Shore ​ Country Gardens ​ Blithe Bells ​ Handel in the Strand ​ Mock Morris ​ Colonial Song ​ Lincolnshire Posy ​ Shepherd's Hey ​ Walking Tune Joe Hisaishi With Olympics and Paralympics having taken place in Tokyo this year, I thought it would be a good idea to feature a modern Japanese composer this September. ​ Joe Hisaishi was born Mamoru Fujisawa on 6th December 1950 in Nagano – Japan. He is most well known for his film music, especially the classic anime films of Hayao Miyazaki such as Howl’s Moving Castle, Spirited Away, Kiki’s Delivery Service, My Neighbour Totoro and Princess Mononoke among others from the Studio Ghibli company. ​ He started learning the violin and the age of just four and he knew then that music would be central to his life. He also watched about 300 movies a year with his father. These two passions naturally saw him become a film composer after attending the Kunitachi College of Music in 1969 to major in music composition. He enjoyed his first success in 1974 when he composed music for the anime series called Gyatoruzu and he has never looked back. ​ Why does he go by the name Joe Hisaishi when he was born Mamoru Fujisawa? Well it comes down to his admiration for the work of American musician and producer, Quincy Jones. Retranscribed in Japanese, "Quincy Jones" became "Joe Hisaishi". ("Quincy", pronounced "Kuinshī” in Japanese, can be written using the same kanji in "Hisaishi"; "Joe" comes from "Jones".) Below are some links to some of his film music. There is much more to find as he has produced quite a lot! Mr Baker September 2021 ​ From the film – Howl’s Moving Castle Merry-Go-Round of Life ​ From the film – Spirited Away One Summer’s Day ​ From the film – Kiki’s Delivery Service Main Theme ​ From the film – My Neighbour Totoro The Wind Forest ​ From the film – Princess Mononoke Sound-track Suite (1998 version) ​ Other pieces – Asian Dream Song ​ ​ Jacques Ibert Jacques François Antoine Marie Ibert was born on 15th August 1890 and died on 5 February 1962. He was a French composer of classical music. Ibert took to music from a very early age and eventually studied at the Paris Conservatoire where he excelled winning its top prize, the Prix de Rome, at his first attempt- despite his studies being interrupted by his service in World War I. Ibert would go on to pursue a successful composing career, writing several operas, five ballets, incidental music for plays and films, works for piano solo, choral works, and chamber music. He is probably best remembered for his orchestral works including Divertissement (1928) and Escales (1922) – links to these and other works listed below. Mr Baker October 2021 Divertissment ​ Escales ​ ​ Entr’acte (recorder & guitar version – a favourite of mine) ​ ​ Karl Jenkins Sir Karl William Pamp Jenkins CBE, who was born on the 17th of February 1944, is a Welsh multi-instrumentalist and composer, best known for works that include the song "Adiemus" (once used to advertise Delta Airlines), Benedictus and Requiem. Jenkins was educated in music at Cardiff University and the Royal Academy of Music. He joined the jazz-rock band Soft Machine in 1972 and became the group's lead songwriter in 1974. Jenkins continued to work with Soft Machine up to 1984. Jenkins has won the industry prize twice. Something of a musical trademark is his notable use of ‘Vocalise’ where singers sing not words, but sounds. Mr Baker November 2021 Adiemus ​ Song of the Plains ​ Requiem - I. Introit ​ Benedictus (The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace) ​ Requiem - IX. Pie Jesu ​ I'll Make Music ​

Reading At Saint Bernadette’s, we recognise that being part of a child’s early reading journey is a privilege. We as staff understand that we are teaching and building a skill that our pupils will rely upon day after day throughout their lifetime. We encourage our children to view reading as a gift, a gateway to worlds that are different to theirs, a source of knowledge and empowerment. ​ The Five Plagues ​ From Nursery to Year 6, children study the 'Five Plagues' in whole class reading sessions. These five plagues represent five different challenges presented in literature: Archaic texts (stories written in older language) Non-linear time sequence (books which treat time in an unusual way) Complexity of the narrator (stories which are challenging because of the narration) Complexity of story (books with a challenging plot) Resistance texts (texts which are written to be deliberately difficult to understand) We believe a steady exposure to these different challenges will help to prepare our pupils as life-long readers. Reading tricky texts provides our students with a toolkit for future reading. Within these lessons, children will also explore a range of non-fiction texts; develop their understanding of new and challenging vocabulary; listen to their teacher's 'thoughts' as they read and improve their fluency. Non-Fiction Texts ​ We believe that pairing non-fiction texts with fiction books helps to increase absorption rate of both texts. Children are more likely to remember the non-fiction because they are then applying it within the story they are reading, and they are more likely to understand the story because they then have the non-fiction background. Across the school, children are given the opportunity to explore a wide variety of non-fiction texts in conjunction with their plague text on topics such as: asthma, bullying, dementia, refugees, deaf awareness, and the holocaust. They also explore non-fiction texts and poems which link to the science, history and geography curricula. Reading Culture ​ Reading for pleasure is of paramount importance and we work hard to ensure that all pupils develop a love of reading. We publish Book of the Month recommendations; have reading challenges within every year band; create links with authors, through visits and video calls; share a reading newsletter monthly with parents; have timetabled story sessions throughout the school and build a reading community through constant book talk. Reading at Home ​ It is vitally important that children are heard read every night at home. We recommend that parents work with their children for at least twenty minutes a day on their reading. Research states that children who are heard read at home for this length of time will hear 1,800,000 words per year and will, on average, fall in the 90th percentile. Reading at home may involve your child reading to you or you reading part of a story to them. This could involve sharing a book or reading a magazine or newspaper. Try to promote book talk as much as possible in the home. Accelerated Reader ​ We use the Accelerated Reader system as our home-school reading system for Key Stage 2. Children will complete a 'Star Assessment' termly and are given a ZPD score. Books in our school library are organised by ZPD and pupils may choose their own books from the selection within this range. When they have finished a book, children take a quiz to see if they have thoroughly read and understood it. Passing these quizzes gives them points and they can get certificates based on their reading achievement. Accelerated Reader: Parents Guide Reading: About Us Phonics ​ We begin this journey with RWInc phonics and the teaching of letter sounds. Staff teach children to use their knowledge of sounds to decode and blend words enabling children to access phonically matched reading books from the RWInc programme. We develop the children’s love of stories, poems and other genres through daily story sessions and book talk. It is through book talk that we develop the children’s comprehension skills in their EYFS years before they move onto written comprehension tasks in KS1. Through the combination of learning to read with RWInc phonics and listening to and discussing a range of stories, above a level that can be independently read, we aim to foster a love and enjoyment of reading in our pupils. Comprehension ​ At St Bernadette’s School we adopt a strategy based approach whereby pupils are exposed to a variety of texts, question types and are taught strategies (tips) to support them to fully comprehend challenging texts. ​ What is the two-week cycle? In week one pupils read the text and focus on identifying any links to the text, retrieving information from the text, clarifying new vocabulary as well as summarising the text. In week one pupils are also taught how to make sensible predictions based on prior knowledge. ​ How do we ensure reading is an active process? Before reading the text, pupils are set a challenge so that they read the text with intent and are actively engaged throughout. What happens during the reading process? Strategies for following the text are modelled by the teacher -for example pupils may be encouraged to follow the text with their reading finger. A variety of approaches are used to read the text and these include the teacher reading the text aloud, pupils filling in word-gaps as the teacher reads as well as independent reading. At St Bernadette’s School we stop at key points in the text and encourage pupils to think aloud. During this process, they may consider how a character is feeling or they may even make a sensible prediction about what may happen next. ​ After reading, pupils summarise the text . This is a key skill. Once pupils have been submerged in the text, we model how to be selective and retell the text in our own words –sequencing the events as they occurred. ​ Did you know 1/5 of the 2018 paper tested vocabulary? After reading we return to the words pupils may have been puzzled by and clarify their meaning. We teach the pupils how to methodically skim and scan for key words or phrases and give them strategies to make this process efficient. We model how each question starter gives the reader a hint as to the response required. Pupils are encouraged to circle the key word in the question and other key words so they carry the information in their head. ​ Pupils are exposed to all the question types. We ensure that pupils are presented with questions in different formats so they become increasingly familiar with the many question styles. Our role is not only to expose them to all the question types but to give them strategies to answer each question type, ensuring that they annotate the text first Once the pupils are familiar with the text it means that in week two they can dig deep and be text detectives (they realise the answers are not explicitly in the text) and infer information. This mind set means they grasp inference and are quite excited about the challenges ahead. In addition, pupils consider how the text is organised and discuss why the author has used certain language choices and their effect. ​ Assessment to inform planning. During the two-week cycle, key objectives are assessed and should the need arise pupils will have a drill down lesson whereby they close the gap in a specific area to ensure the skill or strategy is secure before moving on. ​ Book of the Month Top 20 Lists Reading Newsletter Reading Tips for Parents We ask that parents listen to their children read every night at home. With the younger children, this will help them to improve their word recognition, therefore building up their sight vocabulary and fluency. However, for those children who are fluent readers, parents should concentrate on developing their child’s understanding of the text. It may not be necessary to listen to fluent readers every night, but instead to question them about the text that they have read. Reading with children and helping them practice specific reading strategies can dramatically improve their ability to comprehend. We have included a number of questions that parents can use with their children to develop their comprehension skills. It is not expected that parents cover all of these questions every night, but rather that they concentrate on two or three questions each day. KS2 Parent Reading Leaflet: Click image to download School Library The school follows the Read Write Inc Phonics, which teaches children to ‘learn to read’ so they can then ‘read to learn’. In the summer term, children in our Nursery are introduced to letter sounds and throughout the Reception year and KS1, they are exposed to new sounds until they are confident identifying all 44 phonemes. Parents can support their children throughout the scheme by reading with their children every night and revising their speed sounds on a regular basis (link to speed sounds and pronunciation ). As children become more confident in recognizing the sounds they will begin to blend the sounds to form real words and nonsense words. The link attached illustrates a range of real and nonsense words for each of the set 2 and set 3 sounds. These are useful charts which will encourage children to use their phonic knowledge to decode a variety of words. Phonics Set 2 Sounds Quick Read 'oy' Quick Read 'ow' Quick Read 'ou' Quick Read 'or' Quick Read 'igh' Quick Read 'ee' Quick Read 'ir' Quick Read 'oo' as in zoo Quick Read 'oo' as in look Quick Read 'ay' Quick Read 'air' Quick Read 'ar' Anchor 1 Set 3 Sounds Quick Read 'ur' Quick Read 'u-e' Quick Read 'tious' Quick Read 'tion' Quick Read 'ow' Quick Read 'oi' Quick Read 'o-e' Quick Read 'cious' Quick Read 'ea' Quick Read 'ear' Quick Read 'er' Quick Read 'ew' Quick Read 'i-e' Quick Read 'ire' Quick Read 'oa' Quick Read 'aw' Quick Read 'ai' Quick Read 'ure' Quick Read 'are' Quick Read 'a-e' Children are encouraged to progress through the scheme at a rapid rate. They will not necessarily need to cover every book in the scheme, and may be capable of accelerating through the scheme if they demonstrate a sound knowledge of words. In every year band, children are set according to ability and assessments are conducted every 6-8 weeks. As a result of these assessments, children may move up or down into a new setting group. An example of the assessment is here . The national phonic test is administered to pupils in Year 1 in June. On average, pupils need to be able to read 32 of the 40 words in order to pass the test. If they are able to read all set 1,2,3 sounds, they are likely to pass the test. If they score below 32, they will need to repeat the test in Year 2.

Vocations Welcome from Fr Fretch Ballesteros I was born in the Phillipines in 1989 and was raised by my mother and Father with my brothers and sisters. At the age of 16 I joined the seminary after deciding I wanted to become a priest. Later I travelled to the UK and completed my theological studies at St Mary’s College Oscott. I was ordained a deacon on 29th September 2016 and was ordained a priest at Corpus Christi Church in Stechford. In January 2023 I became the Parish Priest of Holy Family Church in Small Heath and work closely with the two schools in the parish, Holy Family School and St Bernadette’s. As a Vocationist Father, I live in a community and took the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. Our Founder was Father Justin Russolillo. On 20th September 1913, Justin was ordained a Priest. While kneeling before the Bishop for the ordination, he vowed to the Lord to found a religious Congregation to cultivate vocations to faith, priesthood and holiness. ​ On 15th May 2022, Pope Francis canonised 10 new saints of the Catholic church during a Mass in St. Peter’s Square including Blessed Justin Russollilo. Sister Maura Halpin A Sister of Mercy When I joined the Sisters of Mercy in London 60 years ago I had no idea what ‘JOB’ I would be doing. I could have been working in the convent or parish, as a nurse or as a teacher because our Foundress, Venerable Catherine McAuley founded our Religious Order to give education, healthcare and support to the poorest families in Dublin in mid-19th Century. It was a shock to leave rural Ireland and find myself in a very busy city. ​ Becoming a teacher was my second Vocation as being a Sister came firs t. I taught in a number of secondary schools throughout my teaching years. I was called away from teaching 30 years ago to do pastoral work within our Religious Order. This ministry took me to some countries that I would otherwise never have visited as some of our Sisters were working abroad. Now that I am ‘retired’ I feel so grateful to God for all the Blessings I have experienced. I have learned so much from saintly Sisters who are no longer with us. They were women of prayer and were totally committed to the people among whom they worked. Teaching colleagues too have inspired me and now I have time to reflect on how much the Church and society owe to all who work in education. Nowadays prayer has a special place in my day. It always was important but when I was busy I was often distracted in my prayer, always planning ahead. Now I value Mass daily and in particular I listen more attentively to the Word of God, to hear what God is saying to me each day, how much He cares for me and all his people. I hope this makes me a more compassionate and attentive Sister of Mercy when I meet people. ​ I meet people in the local Care Homes and those who are housebound when I visit with Holy Communion because these people cannot come to Church. I am privileged to feel welcome when I visit our schools, especially St Bernadette’s & Holy Family where I join them at their Masses. I support them in their joys & sorrows with my prayer and occasionally do home visits if asked by the Head Teacher. ​ Another ministry that is very special to me is support for the bereaved both in giving a listening ear and in helping them plan the funeral Masses and Services for their loved ones. This ministry sometimes reconnects me with former pupils in their time of grieving. Perhaps I could sum up my life as a religious Sister in the words ‘availability’ and ‘prayer’ and I am grateful to all who have supported me in my vocation over the past 60 years. If you would like support I can be contacted on the following email address: mhalpinrsm@hotmail.co.uk

Our School: List Head Teacher's Welcome Welcome Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make in their early years. As a parent you want your child to feel safe, secure and happy at school. At St Bernadette’s School all children are encouraged, supported and challenged to become the best that they can be. St Bernadette’s is a Catholic school and our motto “Learn to Love, love to learn” is at the heart of everything we do. St Bernadette’s is much more than an educational establishment it is a place where the children are offered stability and enrichment to learn effectively and develop into well rounded, responsible and respectful young people. On a recent Ofsted inspection the school was classed as outstanding for personal development and welfare, this is something we as a school are very proud of, the Ofsted inspection is available on the school website and I would encourage you to read it. A Cowings Headteacher Our School: About Us

Topic Topic Week Videos: Text St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School is a beacon of hope and a place that offers children an education rich in wonder and memorable experiences. Through our diverse and inspiring ‘topic’ curriculum our children learn to love and love to learn. At St. Bernadette’s School, we take a ‘topic’ approach when teaching. ​ History, Geography, Art and Design & Technology. Each term, every year band studies a common theme through these four foundation subjects. This enables the children to develop their key skills as well as gain a deeper understanding of the world. It is our hope that our curriculum develops children’s curiosity and fascination about the world, which will remain with them for the rest of their lives. Topic Policy 22/23 ​ Art Art, craft and design embody some of the highest forms of human creativity. Our art and design education engages, inspires and challenges our pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design. Design and Technology Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, our pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. History Our history provision helps our pupils to gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. It inspires our pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past and helps them to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups, as well as their own identity and the challenges of their time. Geography Our geography lessons equip our pupils with knowledge about diverse places, people, resources and natural and human environments, together with developing a deeper understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes. St Bernadette’s Topic Overview 2022-23 What do our children say about topic at St Bernadette’s School? “We got to make lots and lots of stuff. We even got to do some painting!” Parent: “Seeing our children on the trip was amazing. Their knowledge showed what good teachers they have.” “The trip was very good. We learnt lots.” “We loved working together.” ​ “Today is going to be the best day. It’s topic.” “This week felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity. We did so much that we don’t normally get a chance to do and we loved it.” Topic Topic Week Videos: Pro Gallery ​ www.googlearth.com . www.googlemaps.com www.world-geography-games.com Continents song- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6DSMZ8b3LE Ocean song- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6BE4VcYngQ ​

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Safeguarding Safeguarding Policy Designated Safeguarding Leads Miss A Cowings Head Teacher Mr A Carroll Deputy Head Teacher Miss E Finnegan Assistant Head Teacher Miss A Hulse SENCO If you have any concerns about the safety and/or welfare of a child or young person please contact school. Miss Cowings is the Designated Safeguarding Lead, Mr Carroll, Miss Finnegan & Miss Hulse are the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads. You can make a referral directly to Children's services by calling the Children's Advice & Support Service (CASS) on 0121 303 1888 or via secure email; ehst@birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk

St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Hob Moor Road, Yardley, Birmingham B25 8QL, TEL: 0121 783 7232 Email: applications@stberns.bham.sch.uk Headteacher: Miss Angela Cowings Class Teacher and Maths Subject Leader ​ MPR/UPS + TLR 2 Required for September 2024 The Governors of St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School wish to appoint an experienced teacher to lead Maths across the whole school. The job will involve working closely with the head teacher, senior leadership team, staff, parents, and governors to help strengthen and further develop the teaching, learning and pupil outcomes and engagement in maths across the school. The role is class-based and is expected to start in September 2024 (year group to be negotiated). We are looking for a Maths Leader who is: an excellent primary practitioner, committed to raising achievement for all passionate about teaching and learning of Maths and has a strong subject knowledge able to model and develop high quality teaching able to use assessment effectively to raise standards able to effectively work as part of a team committed to making a difference for our children and our community supportive of the Catholic faith. In return, we can offer: a successful and friendly team of staff dedicated leadership time children who love to learn within a broad and rich curriculum teachers, teaching assistants and governors who are passionate about teaching and learning support with your own professional development opportunities to progress and develop teaching and leadership skills within our school. We would love to invite you to visit our school to meet our happy pupils and dedicated staff. Have a look on our website or Twitter page to see a sample of what St. Bernadette’s has to offer you. www.stberns.co.uk @StBernsPrimary Visits can be arranged by contacting the school office or by emailing the email address listed. Application forms are available from the school office/website or via the eteach website. Please ensure that all applications are completed on the CES application form. The closing date for applications is 9am on 1st May . St Bernadette’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants. Successful applicant(s) will need to provide evidence of their Identity and Right to Work in the UK. An online search will be carried out as part of due diligence on all short-listed candidates. Job description Application Form - Teacher Teacher - Subject leader - Person Specification Recruitment Monitoring Form St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Hob Moor Road, Yardley, Birmingham B25 8QL, TEL: 0121 783 7232 Email: applications@stberns.bham.sch.uk Headteacher: Miss Angela Cowings Class Teacher MPR/UPS Required for September 2024 Are you an enthusiastic, inspirational and dedicated teacher? Would you relish the opportunity to work alongside a friendly, supportive and hard-working team in a school recently rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted? If so, St Bernadette’s may be the perfect school for you! This is an excellent opportunity for a flexible, creative and committed individual to join our happy, vibrant and skilful team. We are looking for a teacher who: Is passionate about ensuring all pupils achieve their potential Is able to demonstrate high quality curriculum skills Is an excellent classroom practitioner and is committed to developing their expertise as a teacher Is able to build supportive working relationships with colleagues Is supportive of the Catholic faith. We can offer you: Happy and well-motivated pupils who demonstrate outstanding behaviour A welcoming, friendly school with a commitment to your continuing professional development A happy, hardworking and supportive staff team A helpful and caring Governing Body Your choice of year band to work in A range of excellent teaching resources An inclusive ethos based on mutual respect We would love to invite you to visit our school to meet our happy pupils and dedicated staff. Have a look on our website or Twitter page to see a sample of what St. Bernadette’s has to offer you. www.stberns.co.uk @StBernsPrimary Visits can be arranged by contacting the school office or by emailing the email address listed above. Application forms are available from the school office/website or via the eteach website. Please ensure that all applications are completed on the CES application form. We welcome applications from both ECTs and experienced teachers. The closing date for applications is 9am on 12th April. St Bernadette’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants. Successful applicant(s) will need to provide evidence of their Identity and Right to Work in the UK. An online search will be carried out as part of due diligence on all short-listed candidates. Recruitment Monitoring Form Mainscale Teacher Job Description Person Specification Disclosure Form Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 - Disclosure Form Application Form - Teacher Supplementary Form St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Hob Moor Road, Yardley, Birmingham B25 8QL, TEL: 0121 783 7232 Email: applications@stberns.bham.sch.uk Headteacher: Miss Angela Cowings Class Teacher and KS2 Science Leader MPR/UPS + TLR 2 Required for September 2024 The Governors of St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School wish to appoint an experienced teacher to lead Science across Key Stage 2. The job will involve working closely with the head teacher, senior leadership team, staff, parents, and governors to help strengthen and further develop the teaching, learning and pupil outcomes and engagement in science across the school. The role is class-based and is expected to start in September 2024 (year group to be negotiated). We are looking for a Science Leader who is: an excellent primary practitioner, committed to raising achievement for all passionate about teaching and learning of Science and has a strong subject knowledge able to model and develop high quality teaching able to use assessment effectively to raise standards able to effectively work as part of a team committed to making a difference for our children and our community supportive of the Catholic faith. In return, we can offer: a successful and friendly team of staff dedicated leadership time children who love to learn within a broad and rich curriculum teachers, teaching assistants and governors who are passionate about teaching and learning support with your own professional development opportunities to progress and develop teaching and leadership skills within our school. We would love to invite you to visit our school to meet our happy pupils and dedicated staff. Have a look on our website or Twitter page to see a sample of what St. Bernadette’s has to offer you. www.stberns.co.uk @StBernsPrimary Visits can be arranged by contacting the school office or by emailing the email address listed. Application forms are available from the school office/website or via the eteach website. Please ensure that all applications are completed on the CES application form. The closing date for applications is 9am on 1st May. St Bernadette’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants. Successful applicant(s) will need to provide evidence of their Identity and Right to Work in the UK. An online search will be carried out as part of due diligence on all short-listed candidates. Job description Application Form - Teacher Teacher - Subject leader - Person Specification Recruitment Monitoring Form St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Hob Moor Road, Yardley, Birmingham B25 8QL, TEL: 0121 783 7232 Email: applications@stberns.bham.sch.uk Headteacher: Miss Angela Cowings Teaching Assistant – Level 3 Required for September 2024 Are you an enthusiastic, inspirational and dedicated Teaching Assistant? Would you relish the opportunity to work alongside a friendly, supportive and hard-working team in a school recently rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted? If so, St Bernadette’s maybe the perfect school for you! This is an excellent opportunity for a flexible, creative and committed individual to join our happy, vibrant and skilful team. We are looking to employ a Teaching Assistant, who is passionate, hardworking and enthusiastic, and flexible in their ability to support learning. We can offer you a happy and welcoming school, friendly staff, a supportive leadership team and the opportunity to undergo professional development. It is essential that you can demonstrate experience of: supporting children to achieve their best across the curriculum experience of working within a school environment engagement with young people to motivate them to learn being professional, adaptable and can show initiative in tailoring learning to meet individual’s needs working with children with SEND We can offer you: Happy and well-motivated pupils who demonstrate outstanding behaviour A welcoming, friendly school with a commitment to your continuing professional development A happy, hardworking and supportive staff team A helpful and caring Governing Body A range of excellent teaching resources An inclusive ethos based on mutual respect We would love to invite you to visit our school to meet our happy pupils and dedicated staff. Have a look on our website or Twitter page to see a sample of what St. Bernadette’s has to offer you. www.stberns.co.uk @StBernsPrimary Visits can be arranged by contacting the school office or by emailing the email address listed above. Application forms are available from the school office/website. Please ensure that all applications are completed on the CES application form. The closing date for applications is 9am on 29 April 2024 St Bernadette’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants. Successful applicant(s) will need to provide evidence of their Identity and Right to Work in the UK. An online search will be carried out as part of due diligence on all short-listed candidates. Teaching Assistant Level 3 Person Specific - Teaching Assistant Application Form - Support Staff

History History Policy History Progression of Skills Knowledge & Skills Year 1 Autumn Year 2 Autumn Year 3 Autumn Year 4 Autumn Year 5 Autumn Year 6 Autumn Year 1 Spring Year 2 Spring Year 3 Spring Year 4 Spring Year 5 Spring Year 6 Spring Year 1 Summer Year 2 Summer Year 3 Summer Year 4 Summer Year 5 Summer