Hymers College Junior School
WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL
Welcome
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make, and we are delighted that you are part of our school community. Whether your family is joining us for the first time or has been with us for many years, we hope this handbook provides a helpful guide to life in the Junior School and answers many of the questions you may have. At Hymers, we believe that childhood should be a time of curiosity, discovery and happiness. Our Junior School is a place where children feel safe, valued and inspired to explore the world around them. Every child is unique, and we take great pride in getting to know each individual so that we can support, encourage and challenge them to achieve their very best. Our ambitious curriculum provides children with a strong foundation in Literacy and Numeracy while also nurturing creativity through Art and Music, promoting teamwork and resilience through Sport, and encouraging a lifelong love of learning across every area of school life. We aspire for our pupils to leave Year 6 not only academically well prepared, but also as kind, confident and thoughtful young people who are ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead. A successful education is built on a strong partnership between home and school. We value the trust you place 2
HYMERS COLLEGE
to Hymers College Junior School in us and believe that by working closely together, we can provide the very best experience for your child. Open communication, mutual respect and shared aspirations enable us to support every child as they grow in confidence, independence and character. This handbook is designed to give you an overview of our routines, expectations and the many opportunities available to your child. Should you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us; we are always happy to help. Thank you for choosing Hymers College Junior School. We look forward to working with you and sharing in your child’s exciting journey through these important years. With warmest wishes, Mrs Imogen Cowan
Staffing in the Junior School If you have any questions or concerns, we kindly ask that you contact your child’s class teacher in the first instance. They know your child best and are usually the most appropriate person to help. During the school day, our teachers are fully engaged in teaching and caring for the children, so if you need to pass on an urgent message, please contact the Junior School Office, who will ensure it reaches your child or their teacher promptly. Mrs Cowan and Mr Copeland are always happy to support families when needed. To ensure queries are dealt with as quickly and effectively as possible however, the Junior School office staff may refer classroom-related and pastoral matters back to your child’s class teacher in the first instance. Head of the Junior School and Designated Safeguarding Lead for the Junior School
Mrs Cowan
iecowan@hymers.org
Deputy Head of the Junior School and Deputy Safeguarding Lead for the Junior School
Mr Copeland
accopeland@hymers.org
Junior School Office: P.A. to Senior Leadership Team JS Office Admin
Mrs Iveson Miss Parker
jsoffice@hymers.org
Pre-School Monday - Thursday
Miss Chapman
achapman@hymers.org
Pre-School Friday
Ms Knight
jknight@hymers.org
Reception Class Teacher
Mrs Carter
ecarter@hymers.org
Year 1 Class Teacher
Miss Riddle
kriddle@hymers.org
Year 2 Class Teacher
Miss Harvey
rharvey@hymers.org
3N Class Teacher and Junior School Curriculum Lead
Mr Newton
rnewton@hymers.org
3W Class Teacher
Mrs Walmsley
lawalmsley@hymers.org
4C Class Teacher
Miss Clark
slclark@hymers.org
4H Class Teacher
Miss Hammond clhammond@hymers.org
5M Class Teacher
Mr McLoughlin
semcloughlin@hymers.org
5A Class Teacher
Miss Annis
lrannis@hymers.org
6H Class Teacher and Head of Junior School Sport
Mr Hodsdon
mshodsdon@hymers.org
6R Class Teacher and Head of Junior School Music
Mrs Redhead
tjredhead@hymers.org
Head of Learning Enrichment
Mrs Eagle
baeagle@hymers.org
Head of Swimming
Mr Mills
nmills@hymers.org
Swimming Coach
Mrs Farr
mjfarr@hymers.org
Deputy Head Pastoral and Designated Safeguarding Lead for Hymers College based in the Senior School
Mrs Jackson
hjackson@hymers.org
01482 441211
Other Useful Contacts Finance and Operations 01482 470224 | Swimming Pool Office (Mr Mills) 01482 470338 | Music Department 01482 347460 JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
3
The School Day A member of staff will be present in the car park between 08:00 and 08:40, at which point the gates will close. Please note that our first lesson starts at 08:50; we therefore ask that children arrive no later than 08.40, giving them plenty of time to settle into their classroom in the morning. Lower Junior children (Pre-School - Year 2) should enter through the main front door of the Junior School. Upper Junior children (Years 3 - 6) should enter through the East Car Park gate.
The Lower Junior Day 07:45 – 08:40
Before School Care
08:40
Morning Registration
10:05 – 10:30
EYFS Morning Break
10:30 – 10:55
KS1 Morning Break
11:45 – 12:15
EYFS Lunch (Dining Hall)
12:10 – 12:40
KS1 Lunch (including clubs)
12:15 – 13:00
KS1 Outdoor Play
12:40 – 13:20
KS1 Outdoor Play
13:00
EYFS Registration
13:25
KS1 Registration
15:10
End of the school day for EYFS pupils
15:30
End of the school day for KS1 pupils
17:45
After School Care closes
The Upper Junior Day
4
07:45 – 08:40
Before School Care
08:40
Morning Registration
10:30 – 10:55
Morning Break
12:10 – 1:25
Lunch (including clubs)
13:25
Afternoon Registration
15:30
End of the school day for Years 3 & 4
15:40
End of the school day for Years 5 & 6
17:45
After School Care closes HYMERS COLLEGE
Wraparound Care Children in Reception to Year 6 may arrive at school from 07:45 and should enter via the main Junior School entrance. Please note that, due to the statutory adult-to-child ratios required for our youngest pupils, wraparound care for children in Pre-School is provided as a chargeable service.
Find out more about our bus network
Our Lower Juniors (Pre-School - Year 2) may attend After School Care until 17:45. Please advise your child’s class teacher if you will be using this provision. There is no need to pre-book. Our Upper Juniors (Year 3 - Year 6) may attend After School Care until 17:45. Your child may let their teacher know each day whether they will be attending a club. Pick up for both After School Care and any clubs will be from the main doors of the Junior School. Please provide your child with a light snack if they are using After School Care or Homework Club which continuously runs from 16:30 to 17:00 every day. Between 16:30 and 17:00 our children will be completing their English/Maths homework, reading, or their project based homework. We therefore kindly ask that you avoid collecting your child during this time, to minimise disruption and allow the staff to support the children with their homework.
School Buses For the first week, a member of Junior School staff will be present at the bus bays to collect Junior School children and show them the route to the Junior School. After the first week, members of our college staff will be present. The children will walk through the school site (no roads to cross or traffic) and will be met at the Junior School gates. At the end of the school day, those children taking the bus home will meet in the foyer. A Junior School member of staff who will escort all bus children to the bays and ensure that they get onto the correct bus. The drivers get to know our children very quickly and will ensure that a designated adult is present to collect the child at the other end. Children will not be released from the driver’s care, if the designated adult is not present.
JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
5
Attendance Regular attendance is essential for your child’s learning, wellbeing, and overall progress. We ask all parents and carers to ensure their child attends school every day, arrives on time, and is ready to learn. As a guide: n 97- 100% attendance is considered excellent and gives
children the best opportunity to succeed. n 95 - 96% attendance is considered good, with room for
improvement. n Below 90% attendance is classed as persistent absence,
meaning your child has missed the equivalent of one day every two weeks. This can have a significant impact on their learning, friendships, and confidence. If your child is unable to attend due to illness or another unavoidable reason, please notify the school office on 01482 441211 as soon as possible on the first day of absence. We strongly discourage holidays during term time, as even a few days away can affect your child’s learning and progress. Holidays during term time will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances, in line with current government guidance.
Break and Lunch Arrangements Please note that we are a nut-free site and have a number of children with severe allergies. Please provide your child with a healthy snack for breaktime. We recommend fruit, vegetable sticks or plain biscuits. Chocolate and sweets are not a suitable breaktime snack. At lunchtime, your child can opt for either a packed lunch from home or a cooked meal at school. Children are welcome to do a mixture of both. Lower Juniors will need to pre-select their hot meals. Please look out for the email from school with the details for this. Upper Juniors will be issued with a lanyard and card. They can use this to purchase their meals on the day. The menu for the following week will appear in the weekly newsletter. Payments for all lunches can be made through ParentPay. The Finance Team will send you login details via email. Please do not worry if you have not received this email in the first few days of school - your child will not be denied food!
6
HYMERS COLLEGE
Uniform Our Lower Junior uniform can be purchased from www.steadyschoolwear.com A uniform list can be found here: Lower Junior uniform list
Our Upper Junior uniform can be purchased from www.schoolblazer.com A uniform list can be found here: Upper Junior uniform list
Coats Please note that pupils may wear a plain black or red coat only, which may be purchased from any retailer. This may be any style or length. Please note that dry-robes must not be worn. We would also strongly encourage any children travelling to and from school by bus, or walking any distance during the darker months, to wear reflective armbands or other high-visibility accessories to help keep them safe.
Hair and Jewellery Long hair should be tied back or kept out of the face using red or black hairbands or headbands. Pupils may wear stud earrings; no hoops or drop earrings please as this can cause accidents during Games/PE. Pupils may wear a watch, however smart watches are not permitted.
Pencil Case From Year 3 and above, please ensure that your child has a fully stocked pencil case including pencils, scissors and glue stick. Please name all uniform - including shoes and socks! Our lost property can be found in the foyer of the Junior School.
JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
7
Behaviour in the Junior School We believe that every child has the right to learn in a safe, happy and respectful environment. Our expectations for behaviour are rooted in the Hymers College CARE Code, which encourages every member of our community to demonstrate Care, Acceptance, Respect and Effort in all that they do. We encourage children to take responsibility for their actions, make positive choices and contribute to a school community where everyone feels valued, included and supported. The Hymers College CARE Code guides our daily interactions and decision-making.
We encourage all children to: n Care for themselves, others and our school environment. n Show Acceptance by welcoming and valuing everyone,
celebrating differences and ensuring all members of our community feel they belong. n Demonstrate Respect through their words, actions and
behaviour. n Give their best Effort in learning, relationships and all
aspects of school life.
The House System The House system is an important part of school life and plays a key role in developing a strong sense of community, belonging and pastoral support. Every pupil is placed into one of four Houses: Gore, Trinity, Holderness or Brandesburton. The House system provides pupils with opportunities to get to know children across different year groups, develop friendships and work together as part of a team. It also forms an important part of the school’s wider pastoral structure, helping pupils to feel known, supported and connected to the wider Hymers community.
overall end of term reward. The House competitions encourage healthy rivalry, teamwork, participation and school spirit, whilst giving pupils the chance to discover and develop talents beyond the classroom. Recent House events have included a dedicated House Music Competition, with pupils performing to earn points for their Houses.
Throughout the year, pupils have the opportunity to represent their House in a wide variety of activities and competitions. These can include sport, music, and other academic, creative and co-curricular events, with points contributing towards the
The House system is something pupils quickly become familiar with and proud to be part of. Whether competing on the sports field, performing on stage, taking part in a quiz or supporting their House at an event, every pupil has the opportunity to contribute.
House Names and Colours Gore Yellow - Trinity Blue - Holderness Green - Brandesburton Red
Rewards Positive behaviour and a commitment to the CARE Code are recognised and celebrated every day. Staff acknowledge children who consistently demonstrate kindness, resilience, perseverance, responsibility and a positive attitude to learning Recognition may include verbal praise, house points, certificates, celebration assemblies, postcards or messages home, and
opportunities to share successes with the wider school community. We also have rewards that pupils can work towards as part of their House.
Restorative Approach We believe that children learn best when they feel safe and supported. We know that making mistakes is part of growing up. Our approach to behaviour focuses on helping children understand the impact of their choices and how to make better decisions. Building and maintaining positive relationships is central to our approach. When disagreements or poor choices occur, we use restorative conversations to help children reflect on what has happened, understand how others have been affected and 8
HYMERS COLLEGE
consider how they can repair relationships. This helps children develop empathy and take responsibility for their actions. We have now moved away from using a warning book. Whilst children will always be reminded of our expectations, we do not believe that repeated threats of consequences lead to lasting change. Instead, we focus on conversations, reflection, and parental engagement so that children can process the experience and be supported to make better choices.
Consequences Although we always seek to resolve situations through restorative approaches where appropriate, there are times when consequences are necessary. When behaviour falls below our expectations, we respond calmly and fairly. Consequences are proportionate and intended to help children learn from their actions. Disruptive behaviour, whether in lessons or around the school, will not be tolerated, as it affects the learning of others. Where appropriate, parents and carers will be involved so that we can work together to support the child.
Some incidents do unfortunately require more serious consequences. These decisions are made carefully after considering the circumstances of those involved. We ask parents and carers to work in partnership with the school by supporting our decisions and helping their child take responsibility for their actions. We are often balancing the needs of more than one child or family, so decisions are made in the best interests of the whole school. Where a more serious consequence is necessary, parents will be informed and invited to discuss the situation with the Head or Deputy Head.
Safeguarding The safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. At Hymers College we are committed to providing a safe, caring and supportive environment where all children can thrive. Mrs Jackson is the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Hymers College. Our Junior School DSL (Mrs Cowan), supported by our Deputy DSL (Mr Copeland), has responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across the Junior School. All staff receive regular safeguarding training and understand their responsibility to recognise and report any concerns about a child’s welfare. We expect all visitors to follow our safeguarding procedures whilst on site, including signing in and wearing visitor identification. We also promote children’s safety through education, helping them to understand healthy relationships, personal safety and how to stay safe online. Further information can be found in our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, available on the school website.
JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
9
Our Curriculum and Approach
Alongside this, children benefit from specialist teaching in French, Games, Music, Art (from Year 3) and Swimming, giving them access to expert subject knowledge while retaining the security and continuity of their class teacher. From Year 3, pupils also study WoLLoW (World of Languages, Languages of the World) as part of our languages provision, developing their understanding of different cultures and broadening their global outlook. We are proud to offer an ambitious curriculum, but we are not an academic hothouse. Childhood should be filled with curiosity, creativity, friendships, sport, music and opportunities to discover new interests alongside academic learning. We want our pupils to enjoy coming to school, to develop a genuine love of learning and to have the confidence to embrace challenge without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary pressure.
C
•
Every day, teachers use formative assessment to monitor children’s understanding through questioning, class discussions, observations, marking and verbal feedback. Children are also 10
HYMERS COLLEGE
•
ice rv Se
As pupils progress through the Junior School, we gradually prepare them for How we embed them in our the increased academic expectations Curriculum they will encounter in the Senior School. For this reason, assessments take place throughout the year. These are not intended to create unnecessary We bring these values to pressure or to define a child by a teaching and lea life in our rning score; rather, they help teachers monitor progress, identify strengths and areas for development, and tailor teaching to individual needs. They also enable pupils to become increasingly familiar with the routines and expectations of formal assessment, ensuring that the transition to Senior School feels manageable. In Year 6, children move to a more specialist teaching model, with an increasing number of lessons taught by subject specialists. This carefully managed transition helps pupils develop the independence, organisation and confidence they need as they prepare for Senior School, ensuring they leave the Junior School academically prepared, emotionally resilient and ready to thrive.
Monitoring Progress At Hymers College Junior School, assessment is an integral part of teaching and learning. Our approach is designed to help every child make excellent progress by identifying strengths, celebrating success and providing timely support where it is needed.
•
n tio ira sp A
This allows your child’s teacher to develop a deep understanding of how they learn, not only how they read, write and solve mathematical problems, but also how they collaborate, respond to challenge, build confidence and grow as a learner. By seeing the whole child across the curriculum, class teachers can make meaningful connections between subjects, personalise learning and provide support and challenge that is carefully tailored to each child’s needs.
At the same time, we are always looking ahead. Our ultimate aim is for every child to move through the Senior School equipped to achieve the very best GCSE and A Level outcomes of which they are capable. The foundations for that success are laid in the Junior School through excellent teaching, At Hyme secure knowledge, strong learning Community Asp rs, the values of iration Integr ity Service habits, resilience, independence and a y nit mu willingness to embrace challenge. m o
y rit teg In
At Hymers College Junior School, we believe that children learn best when they are known, understood and supported as individuals. From Reception to Year 5, we use a class teacher model, meaning your child is taught by one teacher for the majority of the curriculum.
encouraged to reflect on their own learning and that of their peers, helping them to develop confidence, independence and a growth mindset. Alongside this, we use summative assessment at key points throughout the year. This includes endof-unit assessments, termly assessments in reading, writing and arithmetic, and standardised tests where appropriate. Together, these assessments provide a clear picture of each child’s progress and help us tailor teaching to meet individual needs.
Reporting and Communication with Parents We value the partnership between home and school and believe that regular communication is essential to supporting every child’s success. Throughout the year, parents have a number of opportunities to discuss their child’s learning and development, including: n Open Classroom/Work Showcase events, where families can celebrate their child’s learning. n Autumn Parents’ Evening, with a focus on pastoral development and settling into the new
school year. n Spring Parents’ Evening, focusing on academic progress and next steps. n Progress Reports in the Autumn and Spring Terms. n A comprehensive End of Year Report in the Summer Term, celebrating achievements and
outlining progress across the curriculum. This combination of ongoing assessment and regular communication ensures that children, parents and teachers work together to support each child’s learning journey.
Our Approach to Screen-Time in Lessons At Hymers College Junior School, we believe childhood should be rich in conversation, play, reading, practical experience, creativity and human interaction. Technology has an important place in education, but it should never replace excellent teaching or experiences that are better achieved away from a screen. We are committed to protecting childhood by ensuring that pupils spend the majority of the school day engaged in meaningful interactions
with teachers and peers, practical learning, books, discussion, writing, creativity and physical activity. Digital technology should therefore be used intentionally, sparingly and only where it demonstrably enhances learning. Our aim is not to eliminate technology from learning but to ensure that every use of a screen is intentional, developmentally appropriate and clearly in the best interests of the child.
Learning Enrichment At Hymers College Junior School, we are committed to ensuring that every child is supported to achieve their full potential. Our Learning Enrichment Team, led by Mrs Eagle, works closely with class teachers to identify and respond to individual learning needs.
children to access the full curriculum alongside their peers, so support is provided within the classroom whenever possible. Children are only withdrawn from lessons when this is the most effective way to meet their individual needs.
Where additional support is beneficial, this may be provided through in-class support, small group teaching or, where appropriate, oneto-one intervention. Our priority is to enable
By working collaboratively with teachers, pupils and families, the Learning Enrichment Team helps every child to develop confidence, independence and success in their learning. JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
11
Medical Care We have a dedicated medical room within the Junior School and a number of staff who are trained in first aid. If a child is unwell or has an injury, they will be assessed by one of our trained first aiders and treated appropriately. Where further assessment or advice is required, we can contact the school nurse, who is based nearby and able to provide additional support.
Here at Hym ers College, great emp we put hasi mental heal s on the physical and th of all of our pupils.
Emma James
For any significant injuries, including bumps to the head or more serious incidents, parents and carers will always be contacted. We will work closely with families to ensure that children receive the appropriate care and support whilst they are at school.
RN (Child)
Lizzie Picton RMN
• Two full-t ime registered registered nurses: Mrs paediatric James, a nurse, and registered Mrs Picton, mental heal a th nurse. • A fully equi pped Med ical Room necessary with the supplies to treat mino ailments. r illnesses and • A dedicate d either book Welfare Room wher e students an appointme can any emotiona nt or drop in to discu l needs or ss worries. • A stock of the medications, most commonly used school day. available if required paediatric during the We parents/carers will always seek permissio before adm inistering these n from • Emergen cy ‘grab bags . supplies, avail ’ containin g essential in other remo able for use on the school field te areas of s or the site. • Links with exte ensure ongo rnal medical profe ssionals to ing support long-term medical and for students who have mental heal th needs.
Emma James RN (Child)
&
Health Wellbeing
&
We are pro ud to be reco gnised as Asthma Frie an ndly School and to hav e received Wellbeing the Award for Schools
Read more about both awards:
When your child joins Hymers Colle will be aske d ge, you history form to complete an onlin e medical . Each form nursing team is reviewed by our , and we will follow-up contact you is needed. if any Plea update us if your child se remember to ’s medical change durin needs g their time with us.
Health Wellbeing
Our nursing team ensu res that the staff body receives the wider to support training they pupils. They need Personal, are also invol Soci lessons —for al, Health and Econ ved in omic (PSH E) personal hygiexample, teaching first of dental care ene, and the importancaid, . e
Get in touch
The Medical Room is open If you wou for pupils ld like to spea Monday k with the nursing team Friday, 8am - 5pm, during term regarding 01482 3474 time your child 35 | nurs , please cont . e@hymers.or act: g
Homework
When your child joins Hymers Colle will be aske d ge, you history form to complete an onlin e medical . Each form nursing team is reviewed by our , and we will follow-up contact you is needed. if any Plea update us if your child se remember to ’s medical change durin need g their time s with us.
Reception........... Children will start receiving homework from the Summer Term. This will be a very short task, set weekly. Children will also bring home flashcards and a reading book.
Year 1.................... Children will receive a choice of tasks at the start of the term, based on the literacy, numeracy, theme based and PSHE topics that they are covering that term. The children should choose one task per week and bring it in on Friday, ready to share with the rest of the class.
Year 3 - 5.............. Children will receive a piece of Maths and English homework each week. They will also have an ongoing piece of project homework based on the theme that they are covering each half term.
Year 6 ................... Children will receive a piece of Maths, English and Science homework each week. They will also have an ongoing piece of project homework based on the theme that they are covering each half term.
Years 2 and above only: Maths will be set on Tuesday and due in on Friday. English will be set on Thursday and due in on Monday. Science (Year 6 only) Will be set on Wednesday and due in on Friday.
HYMERS COLLEGE
Our nursing team ensu res tha staff body receives the to support trainin pupils. They Personal, are als Soci lessons —for al, Health and E personal hygiexample, teachin ene, and of dental care the imp .
Get in touch
The Medical Room is open If you wou for pupils ld like to spea Monday k with the nursing team Friday, 8am - 5pm, during te regarding 01482 3474 your child 35 | nurs , please e@hymers.or g
From Year 3 onwards, children are also expected to develop their independence as readers by reading regularly on their own. There is clear evidence that children who read frequently make stronger progress across the curriculum, as reading supports success in every area of learning.
Year 2 ................... Children will receive a piece of Maths and English homework each week.
• Two full-t ime registere registered paediatric n registered mental heal • A fully equi pped Med ic necessary supplies to tr ailments. • A dedicate d either book Welfare Ro an any emotiona appointm l needs or w • A stock of the medications, most comm school day. available if r We parents/carers will alway before adm • Emergen cy ‘grab bags supplies, avail ’ co in other remo able for use o te areas of the • Links with exte ensure ongo rnal medical ing support long-term medical and for s menta
We are pro ud to be reco gni Asthma Frie ndly Sch and to hav e received Wellbeing t Award for Sch
Read more about both awards:
Pre-School .........Children may choose a library book to bring home each week.
12
Lizzie Picton RMN
If your child requires medication, please could this always be handed in to the school office. Please note, all medicine should be kept in the original packaging.
Reading is one of the most valuable activities you can do to support your child’s learning and development. We strongly encourage families to read together as often as possible, as regular reading helps children to develop vocabulary, imagination, confidence and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Here at Hym ers College, great emp we put hasi mental heal s on the physical and th of all of our pupils.
Mobile Phones and Toys To help children stay focused and to avoid special items being lost or damaged, we ask that toys and other personal belongings are left at home. We do, however, understand that some children feel more settled knowing they have a comforter or soft toy with them. These are very welcome, and we will encourage children to keep them safely in their bags, using them only when they need a little extra reassurance. We also recognise that some children benefit from sensory support such as fidget tools, chew aids, ear defenders, noisecancelling headphones or ear loops. These items should only be brought into school where there is an identified need and should be used to support your child’s regulation and concentration, rather than as toys. If you believe your child would benefit from using any of these in school, please speak with their class teacher before sending them in. This allows us to work together to ensure they are appropriate for your child’s needs and can be used safely and effectively within the classroom.
JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
13
PE and Games Sport is an important part of life at Hymers, and every child has the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities throughout the year. Our aim is for all children to enjoy sport, develop confidence and skills, and achieve their personal best, regardless of previous experience. All year groups will receive PE lessons. Our Games program starts from Year 3.
Kit n Please ensure all items of kit are clearly named.
This helps us return misplaced items quickly. n Children should bring their PE kit to school on Monday
and take it home on Friday, unless it needs washing after becoming particularly muddy or wet. n For Games (Year 3 and above) children should arrive
at school in their Games kit (full tracksuit) on the days that they have Games. It would be worth bringing dry kit to change into after their Games session, should wet weather be forecast. n We encourage children to pack and check their own kit
to help develop independence and responsibility. n Please support your child in learning to tie their own
shoelaces before the start of term. 14
HYMERS COLLEGE
Seasonal Games Kit Boys n Autumn - Rugby: Rugby shirt, tracksuit, rugby boots, mouthguard (required). n Spring - Football: Football boots and shin pads. n Summer - Cricket & Athletics: PE kit. Cricket equipment is
provided, although children are welcome to use their own bat. A protective box is only required for hardball cricket. Cricket whites are only required for those playing in the U11A team. Girls n Autumn - Football & Hockey: Football boots, shin pads, hockey stick, astro shoes, hockey shin pads with ankle protection, mouthguard, Games kit. n Spring - Netball: Games kit, trainers and white socks
(football and hockey continue as clubs). n Summer - Cricket & Athletics: PE kit. Cricket equipment is
provided, although children may bring their own bat.
Swimming n Boys: Hymers or plain, black swimming trunks/jammers. n Girls: Hymers or plain black swimming costume. n All: towel, goggles and a house-coloured swimming hat,
available from the swimming department.
PE n Hymers PE T-shirt, shorts/skort, white socks, trainers
and tracksuit.
Fixtures Children have regular opportunities to represent the school throughout the year, with fixtures increasing as they move through the school. Our aim is that all children will represent the school in a fixture over the course of the year. In reality, it is usually at least twice a term. Teams are selected on merit, with their commitment to extracurricular clubs also taken into account. Fixture information is shared each week via the Involve App, with notifications sent to parents. Team sheets are also displayed in school. Please check these regularly for fixture details, collection arrangements and return times. Collection After Fixtures n Home fixtures: Children should be collected from the
Junior School after being signed out by the member of staff in charge. n Away fixtures: Children return by coach and are collected
from the Junior School foyer. If return times change, updates will be sent via the Involve App. n If another adult is collecting your child from an away fixture,
please inform staff in advance.
Games Lessons and Clubs Children enjoy a varied programme of Games, PE and swimming lessons throughout the fortnight. A range of sports clubs are available before school, at lunchtime and after school, and we encourage all children to take part, particularly those new to the sports we offer.
Sport Beyond School We strongly encourage children to participate in sports clubs outside school. Regular involvement in sport develops skills, confidence, teamwork and healthy lifelong habits, whatever the activity.
If you have any questions about sport or fixtures, please contact Mr Hodsdon (Head of Junior School Games) mshodsdon@hymers.org
JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
15
Extra-Curricular Opportunities At the start of each term, we will share our extra-curricular timetable, offering a wide range of activities for children to enjoy beyond the classroom. These may include music, sport, drama, dance, arts and crafts, and many other exciting opportunities. Our programme is reviewed each term, allowing us to introduce new activities and provide a varied range of experiences throughout the year. We encourage all children to get involved, try something new and develop their interests and talents.
Music Lessons The Music Department delivers almost 300 vocal and instrumental lessons every week. We would like to encourage as many pupils as possible to learn a musical instrument as we have a large number of ensemble opportunities for musicians of all abilities. We can provide lessons for violin, recorder and trumpet for Reception - Year 2 pupils. In Year 2, pupils can also learn piano. From Year 3, pupils have access to the below: n Violin, Viola, ‘cello, Double Bass n Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone n Trumpet, Cornet, Trombone, Tuba, French Horn,
Baritone, Euphonium, Tenor Horn n Percussion, Drum Kit n Guitar (acoustic, classical or electric), Bass Guitar, Ukelele n Singing n Piano
If you would like to register your child for music lessons, please follow this link: https://www.hymerscollege.co.uk/music-lessons 16
HYMERS COLLEGE
Working Together We believe that a strong partnership between home and school is essential to helping every child achieve their full potential. Parents play a vital role in supporting their child’s education, and we ask families to work with us by: n Ensuring excellent attendance so that children do not miss
valuable learning opportunities. n Making sure children arrive at school on time, ready to learn
and participate fully in the school day. n Reading together every day, helping to develop fluency,
vocabulary, comprehension and a lifelong love of reading. n Supporting homework and home learning, encouraging
children to complete tasks to the best of their ability. n Communicating with the school if there are any concerns,
questions or changes that may affect your child’s wellbeing or learning. n Keeping contact details up to date so that we can reach
you quickly if needed and keep you informed about school events and important information. n Promoting positive behaviour, encouraging children to
follow the school’s values, show respect for others and take responsibility for their actions. By working together, we can provide every child with the support, encouragement and opportunities they need to thrive both academically and personally.
JUNIOR SCHOOL HANDBOOK
17
Hymers College, Hymers Avenue, Hull, East Yorkshire HU3 1LW (01482) 441211 enquiries@hymers.org www.hymerscollege.co.uk Hymers College Trustee Ltd Company No. 5193649 An Education Charity Reg No. 529820-R