How we communicate with parents

We provide you with timely, accurate information about your child in a variety of ways. The key ways we do this are:

email: We use email for standard communications for parents, e.g. newsletters and year group activities; we can also and send you documents. We ask all parents to provide us with emails and phone numbers, download the app and read the information we send you.

Arbor app: The Arbor app allows you to consent and book school trips, register for clubs and purchase items from the school shop. You can complete forms like trip letters and also manage payments to the school through the app. You are also able to book parent consultation appointments, view reports and see an attendance summary. We like the fact that on your phone you can run our letters through translation programs, if English is not your first language.

The Arbor app also allows parents to inform the school about any amendments to family/guardian contacts with permissions to collect. Any dietary or medical requirements can be added, along with consents for various permissions e.g. photographic consent.

Informal Conversations: We really value developing relationships with all our parents. A member of staff may speak with you at the end of the day to pass on information or simply share some time with you. Class teachers in particular will want to get to know you and pass on key information this way.

Phone Calls: If we are unable to catch you in a playground, if we need to contact you during the school day or if we want a longer and more private conversation, we will call you. It is very important that we have up to date phone numbers for you. In an emergency, we will need to get in touch. If you see the school calling, please do answer.

Meetings: In a variety of situations, we may ask you to attend a meeting with school staff. We will always contact you to discuss your availability and be as flexible as possible in arranging meetings. However, especially if external agency workers are involved, our ability to be flexible may be limited. We ask parents to be flexible themselves and to please attend school meetings, on time.

The Early Years Pop in visits: In the summer term before your child starts at Laleham, we invite parents and children of the new reception children tom ‘pop in’ and visit the setting. You'll get to know the space and teachers, as well as other parents and children.

Meet the Teacher: At the beginning of each term, we run an online meet the teacher event for parents. This is a chance for you to get to know the teacher, as well as find out about expectations and routines for the year ahead.

Parent Evenings for Years R-6: Twice a year, we will invite you via the Arbor app, for a meeting with your child's teacher to discuss their progress across the curriculum.

Learning looks: Once a term we invite parents into classes to learn alongside their children.

End of Year Report: At the end of each academic year, we will provide you with a written summary of your child's learning and achievements via the Arbor app.

Parent Survey: We run an annual parent survey and welcome your views and feedback.

Facebook: We use this to celebrate our successes and give you an ongoing insight into life at Laleham. Sign up to stay on top of all the amazing things your child is getting up to.

Website: We use our website as a repository of key information and an entry point for prospective parents. On this website you can find out details about our vision, curriculum and governance arrangements. We also publish the newsletters and news for parents.