Having clear and open communication with the school not only benefits your child, but it’ ll make your life easier too. Asking questions, getting contact information and building relationships with staff are all things you can do before your child’ s first day

School Q & A

You’ re sure to have questions, but luckily other parents will be having similar thoughts, so most of the information you’ ll need will be on the school’ s website. Can’ t find something? Just give them a call.

Questions you might want to ask the school

What does the curriculum look like for the first term?

Will my child have homework?

How do school dinners work?

Should I provide snacks?

Are there before or after-school clubs?

What do I do if my child is ill?

How do I find out about school updates?

How can I find out about PTA updates?

Questions the school might ask you

Does your child have any allergies?

Will different family members or care roles be picking up or dropping off your child?

What’ s the best number to reach you on?

Who’ s who

Senior Leadership Team( SLT): Responsible to the Governing Body for the leadership and management of the school. Their team may include:

• Headteacher / Principal

• Deputy Head / Vice Principal

• Key Stage Leaders

Pastoral care: Supports the social and emotional health and wellbeing of children at school. Hopefully your child’ s school blends pastoral care throughout teaching, but there may also be a separate dedicated team.

Family

support: Extends pastoral care to parents, offering help with issues you may have in supporting your children at home or in school. Their team may include:

• Parent Support Advisers

• Family Liaison Officers

• Education Welfare Officers

Support in class

Your child ' s teacher will likely be supported by a Teaching Assistant( TA), Higher Level Teaching Assistant( HLTA) or Learning Support Assistant( LSA) 14 PARENTKIND. ORG BE SCHOOL READY 2025