Children learn best when they are nurtured. Here at Hartford Junior School, we believe that we ‘bring out the best’ in the children by supporting them not only academically but also with their wellbeing.
We help children settle into their new class from their very first day. This includes a transition package that begins for those children entering our Year 3 classes during the term before they start school. Those children that start with us mid-year, will be provided with a buddy within their class to support them as they settle into the new school routines. At the start of each new school year the class teacher will meet with you to discuss your child. We believe that you are the first educators of your children and know them the best. Children’s needs change overtime so we want to ensure that we know your child well.
From time to time a child may need a reasonable adjustment made to support within the school day. We welcome parents and carers to discuss any worries or concerns with us and together we aim to create a solution to support a child’s daily routine within the confinements of a mainstream school. Please contact us via the school office.
We have ‘The Nest’ for children whom the school has identified as needing extra support with their social, emotional and mental health [SEMH]. Children are offered a bespoke package when attending this group based on staff observations, assessments and communication with parents/carers.
Each year, our PE Subject Lead organises a Healthy Week which includes sports day and a range of activities that support children’s physical and mental wellbeing. There are often yoga sessions, and ample opportunities to talk and discuss emotions.
Each half term we celebrate the children’s extra-curricular activities outside of school through our Healthy Selfie assembly and board. The children are invited to bring in their medal, certificates or pictures of themselves engaging with all activities that support their wellbeing both physically and mentally.
Many of our extra-curricular clubs focus on calm activities such as tiddlywinks, yoga, sewing and Lego all of which we believe are helpful in children’s happiness.
Should you want any support or just want a general chat about your child, please do not hesitate to contact your class teacher in the first instance.
Parents/carers of children receiving a short‑term course of prescribed medication will be invited into school during the day to administer it. Alternatively, medication can be given at home just before school and/or immediately after school. School staff do not administer short‑term prescribed medication.
For children with long‑term medical needs, the school will meet with parents/carers, health professionals and, where appropriate, other agencies before the child starts school. Parents/carers must complete a request form for medication to be administered, and the Headteacher must approve this before staff can give any medicine.
All medication must be provided in its original container, clearly labelled with:
- the child’s name
- date of birth
- medication name
Medication is returned home at the end of each school year, and the school does not dispose of medicines.
Where required, medication needing temperature‑controlled storage will be kept in the school refrigerator.
Parents/carers must not send any medicines into school with children, including over‑the‑counter items such as lip salves or cough sweets.
The school records every instance of medication being administered and limits who is authorised to do so. All medicines are stored securely in the school office.
During warm weather, parents/carers should apply long‑lasting sun cream before children arrive at school. Sun cream must not be sent into school. In exceptional medical circumstances, alternative arrangements may be made.
Children may occasionally need lip salve or skin cream due to weather, frequent handwashing or allergies. All creams and lotions must be handed into the school office, and a medical form must be completed and signed by both the parent/carer and the Headteacher.