Frequently Asked Questions

 

What should I do if my child is going to be absent?

We expect to be phoned, emailed or otherwise notified before 9.00am on the day of your child's absence.  You can click on the link found on the homepage of our website, or click here to report an absence. If not, we will phone you. 

What should I do if my child is late?

Please aim for the children to arrive at school by at least 8.45am.  Any child who arrives after school has started must report to the Office.

Does the school have out of school hours care?

SKIDS run an exciting and fun before and afterschool care program. They also have an interesting holiday program. These programs are all operated out of the sKids building on site. 

What communication is there between school and home?

The principal sends home a newsletter most weeks on Mondays with the eldest child in the family, so please check for this with your child on a regular basis. These newsletters can also be emailed home, please see the office for more details. Any syndicate, class, or Board of Trustees newsletters will usually come home on Mondays also.

In the Junior School your child's teacher will meet with you as part of our Mutukaroa process to talk about your child's baseline skills and how we can work together to support their learning.

Written reports about the children's progress and achievement are issued at least twice a year.  A portfolio of the children's activities goes between home and school at least twice a year and you can also view a sample of your childs work online with their ePortfolio.

Student led conferences may be held whenever needed by either party, at a mutually convenient time.  Please ask for an appointment.  Specifically organised times for conferences are also held during the year, usually in Term 1 and mid-year. Children are encouraged to attend and lead the conferences (if appropriate) and are expected to actively contribute and participate. 

Any concerns should be addressed in the first instance with the class teacher either on an informal basis or through an arranged appointment.  If a concern is not resolved, the Assistant Principals or School Principal may be contacted and they will support you to resolve the concern.

What happens if my child loses something?

Lost property is kept in the foyer of the sKids building.  If it remains unclaimed the lost property is put in the the school clothing bank or given to charity.  Please name all clothing in a permanent manner. The unclaimed uniform in the clothing bank gets redistributed to our families. 

What should I do if my child needs to take medication during the school day?

Children with special medical requirements require written explanation from the parent.  Medicine cannot be administered to children unless the parents have completed the "Administer Medication" form.

How can I contact the school public health nurse?

The school public health nurse  visits school on a termly basis. Health referral forms can be found in the office and school will email the form.   

What can I do if my family needs support?

Our school has a Social Worker in School (SWiS) and her role is to support our families. Corinne Dove is available to work with you or your child/ren through either school referral or direct contact. If you'd like to call Corinne, her number is 09 276 3729. Or email on CorinneD@atwc.org.nz

How can I help my child with their learning?

Homework is given regularly by all class teachers, and is generally of a reinforcement nature.

Can my child ride their bike to school?

Children in Years 5 and 6 are permitted to ride bicycles to and from school with permission from their parents.  Children from any other classes need formal written application from their caregivers to the Board of Trustees.  Riding in the school grounds is not permitted.  Helmets must be worn.