James McFarlane School
Parent Council Meeting
Monday 14th May 2018 at 10.30am
In James McFarlane School
In Attendance:
Lesley Ward, Deputy
Paul McIvor, Deputy
Donna Curran, Chair
Carol Caven, Parent
Gemma Soons, Parent
School Improvement Plan
Paul went over the school improvement plan for James McFarlane. The main priorities are to continue working on GIRFEC, to continue to develop and embed communication rich approaches to teaching and to continue to develop staff.
The staff will undertake peer assessment and observation to allow more experienced members of staff to share their knowledge with less experienced or newer members of staff.
A member of staff will attend regional Makaton Tutor training so there will be an in house qualified tutor.
The improvement plan is extensive and will be available on the blog.
New School
There are drawings of plans for the new school up in the school on the notice board outside the staff room for any parents who would like to see them.
Physio
Some parents had contacted Donna with concerns over recent physio appointments. In addition to the physios the school will aim to contact parents to remind them of any in school appointments.
Parent Council Chair Meeting
Donna attended a recent parent council chair meeting. The pupil equity funding was discussed and the way the money is allocated may be changing.
A new font has been developed for use by pupils with dyslexia, it is easier for dyslexic pupils to read.
School Transport
Parents are reminded to contact the HUB directly with any transport concerns including any issues surrounding pick ups and drop offs.
Summer Holidays
Donna suggested the possibility of a Summer meet up for any parents/carers and children who may be interested. No definite plans have been put in place but maybe a day at the beach?
Lesley has spoken to the school activities coordinator for KA Leisure to raise the point that the Summer programme does not include activities suitable for our children. This will hopefully be addressed but it might not be possible this year.
Pupil Fundraising
The school has reached its fundraising target for the magic carpet and it has been ordered.
Christmas and Halloween Parties
Preparations are already under way for these events. We are hoping to have a themed Halloween party- maybe a ‘Funky Hat’ theme? If anyone has any ideas or suggestions can they please contact Donna.
Garden Fayre
The annual garden fayre will be held on Thursday 7th June. Any plants or donations to the ‘good as new’ or bottle stall are gratefully received. If anyone is available to help on the day manning stalls or helping with teas/coffees please contact the school.
School Funds Committee
The school funds committee decides how best school funds should be spent. Donna suggested adding a parent to the committee.
