Welcome to Beckfoot Priestthorpe
The following information is dedicated to children and families who will be joining Beckfoot Priestthorpe. We hope the information and guidance here helps you feel prepared, confident and excited about starting school.
If your child is joining our Nursery or Reception, please keep an eye out for an email from our Early Years Lead Mary Joyce, over the Summer. This will include details about our your first Stay and Play session with us.
If you have any questions or need support, please get in touch. Our friendly team is always here to help however they can.
If you need any support from the Bradford Admissions, you can contact them using the details below.
We are all really looking forward to welcoming you into our school community and getting to know you all very soon!
Getting ready for school
Starting school is an exciting milestone, and there are many simple ways you can help your child to feel confident and prepared for this new chapter. Encouraging independence is especially valuable. Support your child in practicing everyday tasks like putting on and taking off their coat, using the toilet on their own, washing their hands properly, and managing small personal belongings.
Confidence building is also hugely important. Talking positively about school can help your child feel excited and curious about what lies ahead. You might also find it helpful to practice short separations so your child becomes comfortable being apart from your for short periods of time. Most importantly, encourage them to express their feelings, needs and worries.
FAQs
What uniform does my child need to wear?
You can find a full list of our uniform here: https://www.beckfootpriestthorpe.org/key-information/family-information/
Where can I buy the school uniform?
You can buy our school uniform through the following suppliers:
- Whittakers Schoolwear, 21 Briggate, Shipley, BD17 7BP Tel: 01274 585015 – https://www.whittakersschoolwear.co.uk/product-category/shipley/beckfoot-priesthorpe-school-shipley/
- Natasha’s Schoolwear, 12 New John Street, Bradford, BD1 2QZ Tel: 01274 724676 https://smartschoolwearcentre.co.uk/beckfoot-priestthorpe-primary-school-and-nursery-home/
What else will my child need to bring?
We recommend your child also brings the following for their first day:
- Wellies
- A labelled water bottle
Are school meals provided for Reception children?
Yes. School meals at Beckfoot Priestthorpe are provided by Mellors Catering, a team of experienced chefs who prepare high-quality, nutritious meals for our pupils.
Do children receive free school meals?
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are entitled to free school meals.
However, free school meals are available for families who meet a certain eligibility criteria. We encourage families to apply if they think they may be eligible, as this support can make a real difference.
You can check your eligibility and learn more here: https://www.bradford.gov.uk/benefits/applying-for-benefits/free-school-meals/#TagNo3
We offer a three-week rotating menu with a variety of hot meal options. We also run themed days throughout the year to give children the chance to try new foods. You can view our menus here: https://www.beckfootpriestthorpe.org/key-information/family-information/
Can my child bring a packed lunch?
Yes. If your child prefers, they are welcome to bring a healthy packed lunch from home.
What if my child has dietary requirements or allergies?
Please inform the school of any allergies or dietary requirements so that appropriate arrangements can be put in place. You can contact us here: https://www.beckfootpriestthorpe.org/contact-us/
How much do school meals cost?
School meals cost £2.45 per day (£2.25 for nursery pupils). Please ensure that your ParentPay account is topped up in advance so your child can order their meal.
What if my child feels anxious about starting school?
Being nervous about starting school is normal; after all, it’s the first big change many students will have experienced. Please reassure your child that this move is an exciting, positive, new chapter in their lives and that we are all looking forward to welcoming them to Beckfoot Priestthorpe. However, if you’re concerns about your child’s anxiety, please contact the school and we will do all we can to help.
Who do I speak to if I have concerns?
We want to work in partnership with you. We have an ‘open door’ policy and encourage you to contact school if you have any concerns.
- Office Team: Please do not hesitate to contact the school office on 01274 564879, Mrs Tinsley and Miss Zuber are always happy to help.
- SEN Lead: Tonia Pugh
- Parental Involvement Worker: Dawn Noutch
- Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead: Christina Gunning
How will the school communicate with parents?
- eSchools: We are a paperless school and send more of our important information our via the eSchool app. It is very important you download and connect to the app as soon as your child starts at our school.
- Class Dojo: This app allows you to see what is happening inside your child’s classroom daily, with news and photos uploaded by the teacher.
- Facebook and Instagram: We are always sharing the exciting things happening in our school on social media and encourage all families to follow and engage with us there.
How do you support children with additional needs (SEND)?
Mrs Pugh is our Special Educational Needs Coordinator, and works closely with class teachers, teaching assistants and the children in our school community. Half termly drop-in sessions are available with Mrs Pugh and are announced in our weekly newsletter on the website.
Learn more here : https://www.beckfootpriestthorpe.org/key-information/send/
Who do I contact about my child’s medical information?
Please contact the school office to alert us of any medical needs. All pupils with medical/care needs have a Health Care Plan, and any staff carrying out a medical procedure have the relevant training.
All medicines coming into school must be clearly labelled by the dispensing chemist with your child’s name, these are then stored securely in a locked cabinet. The school CANNOT accept any medication that has not been prescribed by a doctor or pharmacist.
Do you offer before school care?
Yes. We offer a FREE breakfast club from 8.00-8.35am. Children can enjoy a healthy breakfast, including cereals and toast, before the school day begins.
Is there provision before 8.00am?
Yes. Kanga Club run a “Rise and Shine” session from 7.30-8.40am. During this time, children take part in fun morning activities alongside breakfast to help them get ready for the day. These sessions are £3.50.
Do you offer after school clubs or childcare?
Yes. Kanga Club also run our after-school provision, offering a range of engaging activities such as dance, dodgeball, arts and crafts and football.
What are the times and costs of wraparound care?
- Option 1: Activity clubs run from 3:05pm–4:15pm and cost £4.50 when booked for a full term.
- Option 2: Extended care runs from 3:05pm–5:30pm (Monday to Thursday) and 3:05pm–5:15pm (Friday), costing £9.00. This includes activities, a snack, and a drink.
How do I book a place?
Any bookings can be made through the following link: https://www.kangasports.co.uk/beckfootpriestthorpe
What time does the school day start and finish?
The school day runs from 8.35am-3.05pm, Monday to Friday. The school gates close at 8.40am.
What should I do if my child is ill?
If your child is unwell and unable to attend school, you must inform the school as soon as possible (by 9.00am where possible), providing a reason for the absence. You can report the absence by contacting the school office or emailing [email protected]
What happens if we’re late?
If your child arrives after 8:40am, they will need to enter through the school office and will receive a late mark. Arrival after 9:05am is recorded as an unauthorised absence for that session.
What support is available if we are struggling with attendance and punctuality?
We understand that every family’s situation is different. Our team will work with you to identify any barriers and provide support, including attendance plans and access to breakfast club if helpful.
Learn more: https://www.beckfootpriestthorpe.org/key-information/attendance/
Meet our Team
Christina Gunning
Headteacher
Kate Cutting
Deputy Headteacher
Mary Joyce
EYFS Lead
Tonia Pugh
SENCO
Click here to view our wider team: https://www.beckfootpriestthorpe.org/about/staff-and-governors/
We understand that every child is different, and starting school can bring a mix of emotions. We offer a nurturing and welcoming environment, gradual settling-in approaches where needed, and close communication with families. If you have any concerns at all, please get in touch, we are here to help. We can’t wait to meet you!