We believe that our website contains all the information you need to make an informed decision about our school. However, here are the Top Ten FAQ’s that visitors want to know. For further information, please click on the link that will take you to the relevant web page.
How do I register or apply for a place for my child at St. Christopher’s and what are the conditions of entry?
Click on the link called ‘Admissions’ on the Home Page. From the drop-down menu you can find out more information or can choose to register your interest. We also welcome visits to the school (please contact the school office to make an appointment).
What is the class size and how many classes are there in each year group?
In Nursery, our maximum class size is 22. All other year groups (Reception to Year 6) have a maximum of 25 per class. There are three classes in each year group making 24 classes in total.
What will my child be learning at school?
This is a very short question that has a very long answer! Click on the PDF links below to find out more information about the curriculum goals for each different year group.
How is my child’s academic and personal progress reported to me?
Parents are encouraged to communicate with their child’s teacher through the Home-School book, via email or during face-to-face meetings at drop-off or pick-up times so that a positive and supportive relationship can be developed. In addition, there are formal opportunities throughout the year to meet with the teachers to discuss progress and set targets, and end-of year written reports that provide a summary of all academic and personal achievements.
How does the school reward students?
The school has a policy of positive reinforcement which focuses on identifying, recognising and rewarding positive behaviour. Children in Early Years and Infants earn ‘Sunshines’, with each child having the chance to trade their Sunshines for a certificate once they achieve a total of 50 or 100. In the Juniors, children earn House Points for their House team as well as being awarded Star Badges for outstanding achievement.
Who do I contact at school if I have questions or concerns?
The first point of contact should always be your child’s teacher, although you may prefer to contact the school office staff if the matter is administrative in nature. You can also contact the Heads of School, Deputy Principal or Principal via email or seek an appointment.
As the school doesn’t have a canteen, what are the arrangements for snack and lunchtime?
For breaktime, children are asked to bring a healthy snack that can be consumed without adult assistance (although help is provided for the younger children). For lunch, the children should bring a packed lunch to school or have their lunch delivered to school by 12.30pm. There are a number of external providers who offer delivery menus.
What extra curricular activities are offered at St. Christopher’s?
The school has an extensive after-school activities programme that is available to all children in Years 1 to 6. In addition, children in Years 3 to 6 take part in an off-site residential programme that provides the opportunity for independence and taking on new challenges. Field trips and visiting professionals offering specialist activities also form part of our extra-curricular programme.
What does the school day look like at St. Christopher’s?
The school is open to students from 7.15am – 4pm (Wednesdays 7.15am – 12.45pm). School day – School starts at 8am; breaktime is 10.15-10.45pm; lunchtime (including 40 minutes of playtime) is 12.45pm-1.45pm; hometime is 2.45pm (12.45pm for Nursery); After School Activities are from 3pm-4pm. Between 8am and 2.45pm there are 5 learning hours, each comprising of 60 minutes.
As a new parent, are there opportunities for me to become involved with the school?
The school has a very active and successful Parent Committee, whose role is one of support and liaison rather than fund-raising. Regular coffee mornings provide opportunities to make new friends and perhaps ask for (or offer) help, and a calendar of events such as school discos, cultural celebrations and international food festivals require lots of helping hands to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Your support will be most welcome!
