We have prepared responses to some frequently asked questions, which you may find useful.
Please do not hesitate to contact the School Office, if there is anything else you wish to ask. If you have any suggestions on other answers which might usefully appear here, do let us know.
How do you communicate with parents?
ParentMail is a new introduction and has transformed the way we communicate with our parents. Letters, newsletters, important announcements, permission slips and even absences can all be communicated through ParentMail. ParentMail is fully mobile and parents can communicate via the dedicated ParentMail App.
What do I need to do if my child is going to be absent?
Written notice addressed to the Headteacher is required for any absence other than illness. Parents (or guardians) must inform the School Office between 8.30-9.15am on the day of absence, and daily thereafter. This can also be reported via your ParentMail App.
What about medical appointments (doctor or dentist)?
These should be booked outside of school hours wherever possible.
What time can I drop my child off?
Gates open at 8.30am for drop off. Children drop their bags into classroom/bag area and go to playground until the bell rings at 8.45am. Then the gates close and children line up in their class lines ready for registration. If it is wet, the children go immediately to their classroom when the gates open.
What time can I collect my child after school?
At collection, the bell rings at 3.20pm. This signals for all of the classes to line up in the playground, ready for gate to open at 3.25pm. If it is raining, collection is from classrooms.
DO YOU OFFER WRAP AROUND CARE?
The school offers wrap around care for the children. This means the school provides care for the children from 7.30am until 6pm, Monday to Friday. This is covered on the website.
WHEN ARE PARENT EVENINGS HELD?
Parent Evenings are held in the Autumn and Spring Terms. Specific dates can be found in the school calendar. We operate an 'open door' policy for our parents so should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us.
How reliable is the online school calendar?
The calendar is updated in ‘real time’ on the school website and, in turn, on the Maldon School App. We strive to have as much information on the calendar at the beginning of any term and, following the initial upload of information, the calendar will be updated on a regular basis.
How can I find out more about the school curriculum?
An overview of the curriculum is contained on our school website. Fuller information is available on request and reported on throughout the year.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT SCHOOL TRIPS AND VISITS?
These are organised for every year group. Information concerning these outings or visits will be issued in the school calendar.
HOW ARE ADDITIONAL COSTS CHARGED?
Any additional costs, eg., tours, trips, visits, etc., will be notified to parents prior to the event. These additional costs are usually added to the school fee invoice on a termly basis, and these will always be notified to you.
Is it okay for my child to bring a mobile phone to school?
Unless the school has been informed by letter, why it is necessary for a pupil to have a mobile for their journey to and from the school, mobile phones are not permitted.
What about games and toys?
Children should not bring expensive toys, electrical equipment, iPods/iPads or computer games to school.
How do I know which sports kit to send in?
Please refer to your child's individual timetable to ensure they bring in the correct items needed on the day required.
Can my child bring in snacks?
We operate a healthy eating site and our caterers work carefully to provide nutritionally balanced meals. Children may bring in fruit or vegetable snacks to school from home, but must ensure that they do not include nuts or grapes. Smoothies are not permitted unless required for medical reasons.
Should I label my child’s uniform?
Please ensure that each item of clothing is clearly marked with your child's name.
I’M PLANNING TO VISIT THE SCHOOL, WHERE DO I NEED TO GO?
All visitors to the school must sign in at the Prep School Reception. You will be directed from there to the relevant person and place.