Duffield Meadows Primary School

Frequently Asked Questions

How are new classes decided?
The senior leadership team along with staff discuss class make-up for the following academic year in the first half of the Summer Term. In the infant classes, age determines which class a child will go into. In the Juniors several factors are taken into consideration: year group sizes, gender balance, levels of attainment and friendship groups into account when they make the decisions to ensure an even cross section across the phase.


When are break times?
Break time for EYFS/Key Stage 1 is 10:25am to 10:45am and then again at 2:10pm to 2:30pm
Lunch time for EYFS/Key Stage 1 is 12:00pm to 1:00pm
Break time for Key Stage 2 is 10:45am to 11:00am and then again at 2:30pm to 2:45pm
Lunch time for Key Stage 2 is 12:15pm to 1:15pm


How do I make an appointment to see a teacher?
We operate an open-door policy and all teachers are available for a quick chat after school. If your discussion needs longer, please talk to the teacher in the first instance to make a longer appointment. Appointments with the Head can be made over the phone or by emailing the school office.

Is my child allowed to wear jewellery for school?
We do not encourage the wearing of jewellery for school but do permit small earring studs and a watch. Earrings must be removed for PE lessons. If you are going to allow your child to have their ears pierced, please make sure this is done within the six weeks holiday to avoid your child missing out on PE and other enrichment activities. 


Who do I tell if my child is ill and will be absent from school?
Please telephone the school on the 1st day of absence if your child is unwell. The telephone system allows you to choose the option to do this. Please let us know the child's name, class and type of illness. There is no need to phone in on subsequent days unless the illness is of a serious nature and they are likely to be absent longer than 3 or 4 days.
 

When are Parents' Evenings held?
There are numerous occasions when parents and carers are invited in to school to see their child's work and discuss their progress. We have an Open Evening in November where parents and carers can spend time looking at their child's work and talking to their child's class teacher. Parent consultation evenings are held in Spring (usually February). As part of our new Creative Curriculum, classes showcase their work to parents each term, this is a great opportunity to engage with your child and talk to their class teacher. 
As parents and Carers, you are always welcome to come in and talk informally to your child's class teacher if you have any concerns regarding their well-being or progress. Please arrange an appointment through the class teacher. 

Who do I tell about a change in family circumstances or contact details?
If you need to inform us of a change of contact details or family circumstances, please email the School Office.

How can I help out / get involved in school?
We are always very grateful for any time parents can spare as a volunteer in school, either on a one-off basis for a trip or project day or on a more regular basis. If you would like to find out more, please call in at the school office for a chat with Mrs Pankhurst.