Frequently Asked Questions

What hours is the school open?
The school opens at 9am. Children should arrive between 8.50 and 9am. We cannot supervise children who arrive before 8.50am (except children arriving on the Hilcote Bus).

Lunchtime runs from 12 noon to 1pm.

School ends at 3.30pm. Children in Foundation and Key Stage One must be met in their classrooms. Key Stage Two children should be met in the playground. Children who are not being collected or who catch the Hilcote Bus will be escorted down the school steps.

Morning Nursery runs from 9am-12 noon.

Afternoon Nursery runs from 12.30pm-3.30pm.

What should I do if my child is late for school?
Please bring your child to reception and sign into school using the late record book, giving a reason for the lateness.  Remember to tell the secretary the dinner requirements for your child. 

What does Foundation stage, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 mean?  

‚   Foundation stage was previously known as nursery and reception, the children in this year group are aged 3, 4 & 5.

‚   Key Stage 1 (infants) includes Year 1 & Year 2, the children move into key stage 1 at the end of the Foundation stage. Key Stage 1 are aged 5, 6 and 7.

‚   Key Stage 2 (juniors) includes Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 & Year 6. The children move into Key stage two when they start their junior education. They are aged 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11. At the end of Key Stage Two the children move to the comprehensive school to start Key Stage Three.

What should I do if my child is ill?
Please phone the school office and advise of illness and the predicted length of time that the child will be away from school.   When the child returns to school, we will need to have a letter explaining absence for our records. Please do not bring your child back to school until 24 hours after the symptoms have cleared to avoid spreading the illness to other children and staff.

Can I take my children on holiday from school in term time?
Legally you can only take two weeks holiday per academic year.  However, we do ask that parents wishing to take children out of school during term time, consider carefully the timing of this, for example avoiding SATs and examination times in Jan/ Feb and May/June.  Teachers also notice the problems that taking children out at the beginning of the academic year or during new class days, can cause problems and anxiety for some children.   

What do the school governors do?
The governors finalise school policy decisions and work actively with school staff to support teaching and learning. Governors represent the views of parents and the local community. The role of governors involves appointing school staff, observing lessons, regular meetings with staff and with each other.

How do we contact governors?
You can either leave a note / letter with the school office or leave your contact details with a request to contact you with the school office.

What are the SATs and do my children have to take them?
These are currently, the Statutory Assessment Tests set by the government for years 2 & 6.  They are administered under controlled conditions, as per the guide lines set out by government.  We have to stick to the rules and can be checked at any time for correct practise - without warning!

How can I help my child through the SATs/ any recommended work I can do to help my child?  

You can practice skills at home, there are a number of websites which can help you with this – see our links – and there are also books which you can buy to help your child revise for the tests. Nearer the time the teachers will send out information about how you can support your children and may provide practice work to try at home.

When can I see my child's teacher?
After school is always the best time.  All staff try to meet with parents, as soon as possible, if there is an issue.  However, there is staff meeting on Mondays after school and a variety of after school clubs on other days.  It is therefore advisable for parents to call the school office during the day to arrange an appointment at a mutually agreed time. Parents evenings happen each term and all parents are encouraged to attend to discuss their child’s progress.  

I think my child is struggling with their work?
Arrange a time to see the class teacher. If the class teacher thinks there is a problem they will speak to the SENCO -Special Educational Needs Coordinator, to speak to you and your child.  

My child is upset about coming to school.
It is always best to speak to the class teacher straight away. So the teacher and your child can sort out any problems or issues. They can be sorted out quickly.