The School Day
Academy Hours
School day: 8.45am – 3.15pm
Arrival and Departure
Morning arrival
Classroom doors open at 8.45am and children are welcomed into school by their teachers.
If you need to speak to the Headteacher or office staff, please enter the building through the front entrance.
Afternoon collection
Please collect your child from their classroom door at 3.15pm. For your child's safety, we will only release them to a parent or carer unless you've given us written permission for collection by another named adult.
Important: All children must be accompanied to and from the academy by an adult every day throughout their time with us.
Speaking to your child's teacher
If you'd like to speak to your child's teacher , please either telephone or email office@southwaterinfants.co.uk to make an appointment.
Getting to School Safely
We encourage active travel
Walking, cycling or scooting to school helps reduce congestion, is better for the environment, and makes the journey more enjoyable for children. We have secure storage available for cycles and scooters.
As part of our travel plan initiative, we encourage families to park away from the academy and walk the final part of the journey whenever possible.
If you need to drive
Parking outside the academy is very limited. If a car journey is essential, please:
- Do not obstruct the academy approach road
- Do not block the entrance or exit of the lay-by
- Leave a passing space through parked vehicles
- Be considerate of our neighbours – don't block driveways or parking spaces in surrounding roads
- Do not park in the staff car park (unless you have prior arrangement)
We do have a disabled parking bay available for those who need it.
Safeguarding and Child Protection
Your child's safety is our highest priority
All staff and trustees undergo safeguarding and child protection training at induction, which is updated regularly and at least annually.
All staff are required to report and record in writing any concerns about a child's wellbeing. Mrs Cavallo, Mr White and Mrs Jull who are our Designated Safeguarding Leads and will decide if any welfare issues should be discussed with, or referred to, Social Services.
Safer recruitment
All members of staff, trustees, parent helpers and other adults working or helping in the academy are DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checked to ensure they have no criminal convictions that would prevent them from working with children.
When appointing new members of staff, at least one member of the selection panel has completed safer recruitment training.
For more information, please read our Safeguarding Policy.
Equal Opportunities and Inclusion
We are an inclusive school and work to ensure all children are equally valued, while recognising that every child brings a rich and diverse range of strengths and experiences. This diversity is recognised and celebrated.
Our commitment to you
We aim to ensure that all parents, carers and children feel part of our academy family through:
- Regular communication
- An 'open door' policy
- Opportunities for consultation and participation in academy life
- Professional development for all staff to support our inclusive practices
Partnership with Families
Working together for your child
Our aim is to develop a strong partnership between home and school for the benefit of every child. Research shows that children make the greatest progress when parents and teachers work together.
We want you to feel:
- Welcome in our school community
- Able to take an active part in the life of the academy
- Comfortable discussing any concerns about your child or family circumstances
The first years of formal education should be an exciting time of new beginnings that are rewarding for everyone involved with your child. We're here to support you and your family every step of the way.