We believe that it is vital that the school and parents work together closely and we will strive to develop this partnership. We will ensure that parents are kept fully informed about events in school and the progress of their child. In return, we ask parents to share with us knowledge about their child.

We are keen that parents feel welcome in school and very much value the time and energy that some parents are able to give as volunteer helpers. We have a Home School Agreement, which all parents are asked to sign and implement throughout their child’s time with us here at North Downs.

Parent Helpers

We are always pleased to discuss the possibility of parents helping within the school.   At any time many parents are involved in school activities on a voluntary basis, working with groups of children under the close guidance and control of the class teachers.  Activities in which parents are involved include hearing children read, swimming, and school trips.  If you are interested in helping out within school, please speak with your child's class teacher who will explain in more detail DBS requirements prior to getting involved.

Friends of North Downs Primary School (FONDS)

Parents of pupils in the school automatically become members of FONDS – together with the staff, governors and anyone interested in the well-being of the school. Its aims are to promote the interests of the school as well as good relationships between parents, staff and the community; to support the school in providing a first class education; and to help raise funds for the school in a variety of fun ways. Please ask at the school office if you interested in becoming actively involved.

Parental Concerns

As a school we are keen to quickly resolve any parental concerns. If, for any reason, you have questions or concerns about your child, in the first instance please talk to your child’s class teacher. If these concerns are not satisfactorily addressed, then you should contact the Headteacher. If having met with the Headteacher you are still dissatisfied with the school’s response, the Headteacher will provide you with the relevant documentation to guide you through the formal Complaints Procedure.

Home School Liaison Worker

We have a Home School Liaison Worker who is available to support parents and pupils or act as a link communicating between school and home.

Your Child’s progress

Parents evenings held each term. Written reports are sent to parents annually. Parents are welcome to make an appointment with the class teacher at any other time to discuss their child’s progress.

Homework

All children have a Reading Record for recording a child’s daily reading and for communicating between the child, parents and teachers. Learning Letters are sent home every two weeks to provide curriculum information; we encourage parents to help children and support their learning.

Workshops

Throughout the year we offer a range of workshops to help parents understand and support the learning process that their child undertakes. These workshops vary from phonic sessions and how we teach mathematics, to specialised workshops in dyslexia and other areas of special education needs.