Health and welfare

It is essential that we have a current home and/or work address and telephone number in order to contact you should an emergency arise. When your child starts school we will ask you to complete a contact form so that we have this information. If you change your address or telephone number please inform school immediately.

Medicine

We need to be aware of any medical conditions which may affect your child. This information should also be noted on the contact form.

No child is allowed to keep medicines or other tablets in school.

If your child suffers from asthma, an inhaler should be given to their teacher for use in school. Please label the inhaler clearly with your child’s name and class and ensure that the teacher is aware of any particular instructions regarding frequency of use, etc. Your doctor will usually provide your child with an additional inhaler for use in school.

Teachers will not normally administer medication of any kind, other than that for asthma. However, parents are invited to contact school if there is the need for medical assistance of some sort.

Child protection procedures

Parents should be aware that the school will take any reasonable action to ensure the safety of our pupils. In cases where the school has reason to be concerned that a child may be suffering from ill-treatment neglect or other forms of abuse, staff have no alternative but to follow the Local Authority Child Protection Procedures: Caring for Children, and to inform the Social Services Department of their concerns.

A copy of the procedures can be inspected at the school, library or the information offices of the Borough Council, Social Services department, clinic or the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

Confidentiality

We comply with the government requirements with regard to confidentiality. The files we keep on children are open to parents. Information from third parties will not be disclosed without their prior consent. Access to these files may be withheld in certain prescribed cases where there are instances of actual or alleged abuse. Working notes are not subject to disclosure, but will be summarized and then kept on file.

Pastoral care

Whilst the children are in school, the teachers act in loco parentis, acting as any responsible parent would. It is our aim to create a happy, caring environment where all children feel safe and secure.

A registered First Aider deals with the welfare of any child who becomes ill or injured and the Headteacher is informed. If necessary, the school will contact any parent or carer if we have a concern over a child’s health or welfare.

If ever you feel your child is unhappy in school, or perhaps they have suffered a loss at home, we hope that you will feel comfortable in coming to school and talking to your child’s class teacher.