School Life FAQs

Here, you’ll find a wealth of essential details about our school, including term dates, daily schedules, travel options, uniform guidelines, communication methods, extracurricular activities, and more. Whether you’re a current parent, a prospective family, or just curious to learn more about our educational community, this page serves as your guide to navigating life at Heathside prep. From frequently asked questions to practical insights, we’ve got you covered. Explore the information provided below to discover everything you need to know about being a part of the Heathside experience. If you can’t find the answers to your question here, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

What are the school day timings for different year groups?

The timings vary by year group. The school day starts between 8:30 and 9:00am and the school day ends between 3:00pm and 4:00pm depending on the year group. Wraparound care is also offered for all year groups from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

Where are the school buildings located?

Nursery through Year 5 are at Heath Street NW3 1DN, and Years 6, 7, and 8 are located at 16 New End NW3 1JA, both within a short walk from Heath Street.

Are there provisions for students with special educational needs?

Yes, we have a dedicated SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) who supports students with special educational needs. Please feel free to reach out to the Admissions team for more information on how we cater to individual learning needs.

Is there a healthy travel option to the school?

Yes, the school supports walking, cycling, and public transport. The Healthy School Street initiative encourages sustainable travel options.

Can children in Years 5 and 6 travel to and from school unaccompanied?

Yes, children in Years 5 and 6 can travel independently, but parents need to fill out a form to permit this.

What is the school uniform and how can I purchase the school uniform?

The school uniform is available from Uniform4kids, and generic items can be bought from any school uniform retailer. The school uniform varies based on the year group. For Nursery to Year 4, it includes a school polo shirt, sweatshirt, jogging bottoms, and a compulsory school coat. Optional items include navy leggings or shorts, a summer dress, and a book bag. Sturdy and comfortable shoes are recommended. From Year 5 upwards, there’s an additional smart uniform option (grey trousers/skirt, white shirt, school tie, jumper) alongside the casual uniform. A separate sport kit is required from Year 3 upwards

Are mobile phones allowed in school?

Mobile phones are not allowed during school hours and should be left at Reception. Smartwatches are allowed in Years 6 to 8 but without internet, camera, or recording capabilities.

Can my child bring snacks to school?

We encourage healthy snacking to promote wellbeing and concentration. Permitted snack options include a piece or portion of fresh fruit, vegetables/crudities, rice/corn cakes, and cheese with crackers. These options align with our healthy eating guidelines and help create a positive eating environment for all students. Please refrain from sending chocolate, sweets, fizzy drinks, and traditional fried crisps. Additionally, we encourage using refillable water bottles to reduce single-use plastic waste.

Is there a lunch service at the school?

Yes, Heathside provides a catered lunch service through Todmorden Foods. The menu includes a hot main course with a vegetarian option, salads, side dishes, yogurt, and fruit for dessert. Lunches are charged at a flat rate, and the menu rotates on a three-week basis. Families have the option to either provide a packed lunch for their child or avail the school’s lunch service. Lunches are ordered through the school payment system, sQuid.

How do I stay informed about school updates?

The school communicates through weekly newsletters, termly updates, parent portal, sQuid, text messages (for emergencies), and teacher emails.

How can I stay informed about school events and important dates?

The school calendar is available on the Parent Portal, and weekly newsletters also highlight key events and updates. Make sure to check these resources regularly to stay up-to-date with school activities.

How does the school communicate with parents regarding student progress?

We use a combination of methods to keep parents informed. This includes weekly newsletters, termly updates from the Headteacher, Parent Portal for accessing key information, and teacher emails for individual communication.

Can I join the Parent Teacher Association (PTA)?

All families are invited to join the PTA, which plays an active role in the school community.

What if I have concerns about my child’s wellbeing?

At Heathside, the wellbeing and safety of every student are of utmost importance. Our safeguarding team is dedicated to ensuring a secure and supportive environment. If a class teacher has concerns about a student’s wellbeing, they collaborate with our experienced safeguarding and Special Educational Needs team for appropriate support. Additionally, we have designated safeguarding leads who oversee the welfare of our students. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s wellbeing, please reach out to the safeguarding team, whose contact information is provided in the document. Our school aims to foster a positive and nurturing atmosphere where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.

How can I arrange music lessons for my child?

You can arrange music lessons with the school’s experienced visiting music teachers. Contact the Head of Music for more information.

Are there clubs and extracurricular activities offered at the school?

Yes, the school offers clubs and activities. You can read more about this via the Clubs & Activities page.

What technology is required for Year 7 and 8 students?

Students in Year 7 and 8 use Chromebooks to access Google Classroom. These devices are lightweight, designed for education, and are enrolled on the school network.