Rode School Development Plan 2007-8: Rode First School, Somerset

Rode School Development Plan 2007-8

Rode School Policies and Reports

Our School Development Plan for 2007-8 is shown below. Alternatively, if you would like this report in pdf format to print out, please click on the above link.

REVIEW 2007
We have carried out the following self-evaluation tasks to help us identify priorities for this plan:

Analysis of 2007 assessment information
Update of the School Self Evaluation Form (SEF)
Artsmark Application 07
Staff and governor meetings reflecting on school needs and opportunities for the future
Consultation with children and parents
Liaison with school and community partners

Last update: 21:03:08

PRIORITIES for 2007-8
We have identified four main priorities areas for the coming year and beyond:

To raise achievements and standards in writing and mental calculation
To promote personal development and well being of all children and staff by encouraging healthy eating and exercise
To enhance provision by the introduction of MFL and furthering the excellence of the Arts
To improve leadership and management by ensuring effective governor monitoring, targeted staff CPD and a long term strategic plan

NB The continued development of the effective use of The Arts and ICT to enhance teaching and learning, within a vibrant curriculum, will remain an embedded focus in each priority.

We will to share these three priorities through our whole school community and keep them as a focus of our development.

In addition Governor working parties will:

provide a coherent concept plan for the development of our buildings and our environment (ES)
improve efficiency of communication between school and our community
plan for extension and replacement of ICT resources over the next 3 years

QUALITY ASSURANCE
We have checked our plan against the OFSTED guidance for a 'single development plan' for a school

a clear, unique vision; short and long term objectives; no more than 3-5 goals per year	Yes	effective financial planning	Yes
practical; achievable; high impact strategies	Yes	framework for performance management	Yes
a clearly written working document; part of the on-going in-year evaluation process to guide and inform in-year decisions; enables shorter term targets to be monitored and evaluated; revised as necessary;	Yes	encompass all school initiatives	Yes
clearly defined objectives, timescales, milestones, details of who is accountable for what actions, and how the activities will be monitored and evaluated.	Yes	strong community dimensions; reflecting partnerships	Yes
challenging targets; focused on learner achievement; success criteria related to learner outcomes	Yes	involve and be approved by the Governing Body	Yes

SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-8: OVERVIEW AND CALENDAR
Priority	Autumn Term 2007	Spring Term 2008	Summer Term 2008
1. Raise standards in writing and mental calculation	Pupil Voice Writing Project including developing a model for effective Curricular Development Numeracy Evening and Consultation with advisor. Whole school targets agreed and Year group targets set for numeracy	Pupil voice project- how can we investigate our pupil's views and feelings about writing? Children trained as documenters. Key staff trained in use of Fronter (Somerset Learning Platform) Hold progress meeting for maths targets	Children choose practitioners from Directory of Creative Partners and write brief Assess FCLP writing project Hold progress meeting for maths targets Assess effectiveness of mental calculation strategies, assessment and target setting process.
2. To promote personal development and well being of all children and staff by encouraging healthy eating and exercise.	Find Hot Meals Provider- establish need Discuss possible links with Rode allotments (AM) Set up Huff and Puff Scheme for playtimes. (SW) Participate in Inter School Sports whenever possible, book for the year.(SW)	Consultation on Food Policy and review H and S of water in Schools Re-establish area for Vegetable Garden Refurbish kitchen for Community cooks Consult on School plan in consultation with pupils and parents Refurbish Staff room Gymnastics training for staff 20/3/08 Orienteering course provided for Y2,3,4 by Dan Brice, SASP.	Write and agree Food Policy Write and submit School Travel Plan Monitor progress and impact of NHSS. Gather evidence Set up Gardening Club and Cookery Club Establish curriculum links from FS- Y4 for vegetable garden and cooking Cricket coaching, tennis coaching, golf tournament organised.
3. Enhance Provision by effective teaching of MFL and furthering excellence in the Arts	Write Artsmark Award application Organise successful Arts week with local artists.(KT) Organise Sevdah music project and percussion project(KC) Take Art Dance Project with Reception- whole staff training Timetable and begin French for whole school- using our French Assistant, CT to attend mentor training Timetable and begin Spanish Attend training to link French and dance Plan and perform MFL Nativity	Collate portfolio of Arts work Finish library refurbishment Deliver and evaluate Sevdah music project Continue high quality MFL teaching, linking to other subjects wherever possible. Top dance training for staff 11.01.08	Hold successful Dance Festival Extensive Art training for JM Review Art Scheme of Work
4. To improve leadership and management by ensuring effective governor monitoring and SEN leadership, targeted staff CPD and a long term strategic plan.	Organise Gov Training session re. Monitoring and Evaluation Write a Governor Visits policy agreed by staff and govs Include monitoring questions in SDP Purchase 4 computers for staff Agree new Performance Management Policy Carry out all teaching staff Performance Management Reviews (teachers by 31.10.08; HT by 31.12.07) and link objectives closely linked to SDP Build in to staff meeting planner opportunities to share good practise- link with writing project Concept Plan Working Party and ICT WP to report to FandB on initial findings Communications WP to report to CandP on initial findings CT to join (termly) SAPHTO ICT group to keep informed	Ensure all SEN policies, practise etc in order. Plan staff learning opportunities Concept Plan WP to consult staff and others regarding classroom and other requirements; consider good practice from other schools and organisations Communications WP to consult staff and others regarding communications; consider good practice from other schools and organisations; liaise with web-maker ICT WP to consult staff and others regarding communications; consider good practice from other schools and organisations 2 Govs to visit to monitor Priority 3 CT to attend NCSL 'Head for the Future' course	Train governors in Network Learning Walks Concept Plan WP, Communications WP, ICT WP all to give final SMART recommendations to inform 3-5 year Strategic Plan 5 year Strategic Plan written and agreed by all. 2 Govs to visit to monitor Priorities 1 and 2

Priority 1 Objective: Raise achievements and standards in writing and mental calculation Leaders: Literacy Co-ordinator - Karen Twose / Numeracy Co-ordinator - Averil Morrow: Supported by Carolyn Tommey Link Governor: Literacy Governor - Kate Robinson / Roly Simms
We will be successful if -	Achieved
pupils are consulted effectively about the challenges they face in aspects of writing. A method of 'adult-free'dialogue is established.
teachers are better informed and able to further improve teaching of writing in the curriculum
a model for developing the curriculum is established and used effectively
Target setting and assessment strategies are used to enhance teaching and learning in mental maths.
pupils' achievement in writing and mental maths is good - 'Learners meet challenging targets and, in relation to their capability and starting points, they achieve high standards. Most groups of learners, including those with learning difficulties and disabilities, make at least good progress and some make very good progress, as reflected in contextual value added measures. Learners are gaining knowledge, skills and understanding at a good rate across all key stages.'(OFSTED criteria for 'good')
pupils enjoy writing and metal maths, as demonstrated by their positive attitudes and involvement in lessons; they develop a good level of self-confidence as demonstrated by their initiative in activities
This priority contributes to improving Every Child Matters outcomes in: Be Healthy Stay Safe Enjoy and Achieve Make a positive contribution Achieve Economic well-being

Priority 1: To raise achievements and standards in writing and mental calculation. Auditing/targeting, Planning/Training, Teaching/Learning, Monitoring/Revising/Coaching, Assessing/Evaluating, Planning
WHAT ACTION?	WHO?	WHEN BY?	WE WILL NEED	Monitoring Questions
To meet with QCA and Creative Partners to discuss project development. This meeting will be informed by data analysis of 2007 results in FS profile, KS1, Y3 and Y4 writing scores.	CT	Oct/Nov 07	Biscuits! Twilight	How can we ensure that this project will raise standards in writing? What are the challenges we face in improving children's writing experiences?
Launch project in FCLP, this will be a creative action research project aimed at exploring the challenges children experience in writing. It will also involve sharing in a co development approach aimed at improving children's writing experience in the long term.	CT/KT	Nov 07	Project funded through FCLP and Creative Partners (£5000)	Have we explored some of the challenges of writing? How can we improve children's writing experience by taking a fresh look at our curriculum and developing different approaches to writing through child-led learning?
To meet with QCA and Creative Partners to discuss project development. This meeting will be informed by data analysis of 2007 results in FS profile, KS1, Y3 and Y4 writing scores.	CT / Gill Harry	Jan 08	Twilight training	How can we document what we do effectively?
SCC currently trialling the Somerset Learning Platform (Fronter) and it was agreed that this would be the ideal platform to share our learning journey. Ian Vardy provided training during a twilight session on 26th February. SCC happy to provide additional support whenever necessary. This is a very exciting development for this project.
Plan project with other participants in FCLP	KT/CT	Jan 08	Supply cover (paid for by FCLP)	How will we ensure 'adult-free' dialogue?
During the Writing project meeting on 31st Jan it was agreed by KT and CT to use the idea of children being trained to 'document learning' through the use of pictures, photographs and words. We felt this would be a great 'adult-free'nway of auditing how children feel about their own and other children's writing. Sandra Barefoot, who has done just this in schools in Bristol has been booked for Friday 28th March to train 4 Y4 children from Rode and Leigh on Mendip School.
Carry out audit of children's views	CT / a creative partner	March 08	Funded by FCLP	What are the challenges children experience in writing? Who/what do they need to help them overcome these challenges?
Children write brief for practitioner. Use Creative practitioner chosen by children to inspire writing.	Children / CT / KT	May 08	Funded by FCLP	Do pupils enjoy writing? Is this demonstrated by their positive attitudes and involvement in lessons? Do pupils show initiative in learning?
Evaluate impact of project on children's writing. Can this project be used as a model of good practice in developing the curriculum?				See success criteria.
To plan and deliver a successful numeracy evening, led by Sue Owen, SCC advisor	AM	October 07	£175.00	Are parents fully informed of the teaching of maths at Rode school? Do they understand their role in enhancing children's learning? Are we working in partnership with parents?
Well-supported Numeracy Evening held on 16th October and led by Sue Owen. Feedback received from 14 parents. Very positive response from all but one parent, others were sorry to have missed the evening but found the timing (6.30-7.30pm) difficult. As a result we will consult, through our communications group, to find out if there is a better time for these evenings in the future.
Discuss with Sue Owen effective methods of target setting and assessment in maths.	AM	October 07
Set whole school and year group targets for maths	Staff led by AM	Nov 07	Staff meeting	Are all teachers familiar with the target-setting process?
Review Teaching and learning during termly progress meetings for each class.	CT	Spring and Summer term	PPA time	Are all children making good progress? What are we doing for those children who are not making expected progress?
Evaluate target setting, assessment and intervention strategies used this year.	AM / Staff	Summer Term	Staff meeting	What can we learn from this project? What do we need to change for next year?

Priority 2: Objective: To promote personal development and well being of all children and staff by encouraging healthy eating and exercise Leaders: Carolyn Tommey; Supported by Sandy Weston, Averil Morrow, Kath Cooper, Kim Slade Link Governor: Helen Thomas
We will be successful if -	Achieved
Healthy and nutritious food and drink are available across the school day.
Pupils have confidence, skills and understanding to make healthy food choices, to grow fruit and vegetables and to cook healthy food.
Community cooks and gardeners are regular visitors to school to support learning.
The pupils, parents and staff at our school are committed to promoting travel to and from school by safe and sustainable means.
Playtimes are happy and active for all.
Children are involved in high quality sport both within our school and in inter-school festivals and competitions
We achieve the new National Healthy Schools Status.
This priority contributes to improving Every Child Matters outcomes in: Be Healthy Stay Safe Enjoy and Achieve Make a positive contribution Achieve Economic well-being

Priority 2: To promote personal development and well being of all children and staff by encouraging healthy eating and exercise. Auditing/targeting, Planning/Training, Teaching/Learning, Monitoring/Revising/Coaching, Assessing/Evaluating, Planning
WHAT ACTION?	WHO?	WHEN BY?	WE WILL NEED	Monitoring Questions
Play leaders receive training/ HLTA receives Huff and Puff Training Huff and Puff Resources purchased Lunchtime incident log kept to monitor play leaders scheme.	SW	Sept/Oct Oct Nov 07	Resources purchased through Sainsbury’s vouchers. Training provided through SASP	Is playtime a happy and active time for all? Has behaviour improved?
Source Hot Meals Provider and establish need and viability.	CT/SN	Oct 07	Questionnaire	Is there a sustainable demand for hot school meals provision? Is there a company in the community able to support this demand effectively?
Parent consultation showed that up to 35 children a day would like a hot school meal. Jan 08 Mrs Bs Catering was contracted to provide hot school meals to our school. See Governor monitoring sheet. (March 08)
Write a draft Food Policy Consult on Food Policy and review H and S of water in school	SIG and communications group.	Feb08 March08	Questionnaire	Is healthy and nutritious food available throughout the school day? Is there a shared understanding amongst all stakeholders?
Restablish area for vegetable garden and make links with Rode allotments	AM	March 08		Are fruit and vegetables grown in school? Are the children fully involved?
Set up gardening club	AM	Summer Term	Seeds, compost, tools	Are fruit and vegetables grown in school? Are the children fully involved?
Refurbish Kitchen through consultation with all stakeholders Source county contractor to undertake work	FORS School Council FandB	May 08	£8500- Surestart £2000-FORS £2000-DFCG	Is the kitchen the optimum design for all stakeholders to use? Is it value for money?
Establish curriculum links from FS- Y4 for gardening and cooking	Staff	Summer Term	Staff meeting time	Do pupils have confidence, skills and understanding to make healthy food choices, to grow fruit and vegetables and to cook healthy food?
Complete Travel to School Plan through consultation with all stakeholders gathering of evidence targets for improvement completing on-line plan	Pupils Staff Parents Govs	19th June deadline	Staff meeting, class and governors time. Questionnaire / survey	Are the pupils, parents and staff at our school committed to promoting travel to and from school by safe and sustainable means?
Refurbish Staff Room	Staff	Summer	DFCG	Is the staff area conducive to relaxation?
Complete Healthy School documentation on line	CT and Staff	Summer Term	Staff meeting time	Have we achieved Healthy Schools Status?
Improve Sports Provision in school by Participating in inter-school festivals Providing INSET for gymnastics, dance Sourcing expert coaches to provide high quality tuition	SW	Summer Term	Funding provided by SASP	Do all children participate in these activities? Has the quality of learning and participation improved as a result of these extra activities?
Extra activities provided by expert coaches and enjoyed by children this year include: For Y2, 3 and 4, 6s week of orienteering, 4 weeks of cricket, a racket festival, multi-skills festivals For R/Y1: 4 weeks of tennis For Y1: a football festival R: 5 week with dancer Clare Hill Whole school: Tri Golf tournament, dance festival Staff have had training in Gymnastics and Dance and have also learnt from all the above experts.

Priority 3: Objective: To enhance provision by the introduction of MFL and furthering the excellence of the Arts. Leader: Carolyn Tommey (MFL) / Karen Twose (Arts), Supported by Nina Link Governor: Helen Thomas
We will be successful if -	Achieved
1. Children will learn to communicate in a foreign language (French and Spanish) in simple, real-life every day situations.
2. Children will develop a cultural awareness of the similarities and differences between themselves and French and Spanish children.
3. Children will learn a MFL through cross-curricular activities e.g. by linking French and dance or music
4. Children will experience a wide range of Arts activities throughout the year.
5. We gain our Gold Artsmark Award for the third time!
6. Children achieve high standards in all arts activities and we have the evidence to prove it!
This priority contributes to improving Every Child Matters outcomes in: Be Healthy Stay Safe Enjoy and Achieve Make a positive contribution Achieve Economic well-being

Priority 3: Enhance Provision by effective teaching of MFL and furthering excellence in the Arts
WHAT ACTION?	WHO?	WHEN BY?	WE WILL NEED	Monitoring Questions
Complete and submit the Gold Artsmark Application	KT and staff	Nov 07	Time	Do children experience a wide range of Arts activities throughout the year? Have we gained our Gold Artsmark Award for the third time? Do children achieve high standards in all arts activities and do we have the evidence to prove it?
Organise and evaluate Arts week with local artists	KT	Sept 07	£600.00
Organise and evaluate Sevdah music project and Percussion project KC to receive training for Sevdah project	KC	Jan 08/Sept 07	£250.00
Organise and evaluate Take Art Dance Project for Reception children, with dancer Clare Hill.	KT	Sept/Oct07
Collate Arts portfolio	KT	Summer 08
Organise a Dance Festival	SW and staff	Summer 08	£600.00
Provide training and support for staff including: 6 days art training for JM Top dance training for all staff
Review Arts Scheme of Work	All Staff	Summer 08	Staff meeting time
Auditing/Targeting, Planning/Training, Teaching/Learning, Monitoring/Revising/Coaching, Assessing/Evaluating, Planning
Complete refurbishment of library	KT	Spring 08		Is the library conducive to reading and research? Do children regularly use it?
Timetable and begin French for the whole school using our French assistant Nina	CT	Sept 07	Resources provided through SCC	Can children communicate in a foreign language (French and Spanish) in simple, real-life every day situations? Do children enjoy their learning? Have children developed a cultural awareness of the similarities and differences between themselves and French and Spanish children? Have children learned a MFL through cross-curricular activities e.g. by linking French and dance, music or DandT etc?
Timetable and begin Spanish in R, Y1 and2 using parent Mel Griffiths	KT, KS and MR	Sept 07	£150.00 resources
Link MFL into other areas of the curriculum, gather evidence and evaluate.	KT,CT,KS	Summer 08
Plan and perform Nativity in French and Spanish	All staff	Christmas 07

Priority 4: Objective: To improve leadership and management by ensuring effective governor monitoring, SEN leadership, targeted staff CPD and a long term strategic plan Leader: Carolyn Tommey; Supported by Governors Link Governor: Kate Robinson / Bill Jackson
We will be successful if -	Achieved
A 3-5 year strategic plan is written that takes account of the diversity, values and experience of the school and the community at large including Somerset and national agendas.
Governors regularly visit the school and they effectively monitor the SDP
An effective performance management system is in place that ensures targeted and sustained CPD and regular sharing of good practice for all staff.
The provision for SEN children at our school is effectively led and children with SEN make good progress.
This priority contributes to improving Every Child Matters outcomes in: Be Healthy Stay Safe Enjoy and Achieve Make a positive contribution Achieve Economic well-being

Priority 4: Objective: To improve leadership and management by ensuring effective governor monitoring, SEN leadership, targeted staff CPD and a long term strategic plan
WHAT ACTION?	WHO?	WHEN BY?	WE WILL NEED	Monitoring Questions
Organise Gov Training Session re. Monitoring and Evaluating	SN	Autumn Term	£175.00	Do governors regularly visit school to monitor the SDP? Is this achieved effectively? Are findings fed back to the governing body and discussed effectively?
Agree a Governor visits policy and schedule of monitoring visits linked to SDP. 2 governors to visit school in each of Spring and Summer Terms to monitor SDP priorities. Provide Network Learning Walks Training for Govs.	All	Dec 07 - Summer Term
Concept Plan WP, ICT WP and Communications Groups to report to governors on initial findings consult stakeholders give SMART recommendations to inform 3-5 year strategic plan	Concept Plan Working Party, ICT Group Communications Group	Autumn Term Spring Term Summer Term	Carolyn to join SAPHTO ICT group Time and energy
Agree Performance Management Policy and carry out all reviews by agreed deadlines Plan staff learning opportunities Build in to staff meeting planner opportunities to share good practice Purchase 4 new laptops for staff use	All CT CT	Autumn Term Spring/ Summer Terms	£3500.00	Is there an effective performance management system in place that ensures targeted and sustained CPD and regular sharing of good practice for all staff?
Ensure all SEN policies and procedures are in place	AM	Summer Term		Is the provision for SEN children at our school effectively led and do children with SEN make good progress?
Write and agree 5 year Strategic Plan	All	Summer Term		Is there a 3-5 year strategic plan written that takes account of the diversity, values and experience of the school and the community at large including Somerset and national agendas?