BACK AT SCHOOL

Year 7 have been fully engaged in the whirlwind of the first weeks back at school after our extended lockdown and remote learning. The student’s attitude is positive and courageous.

The year group are now familiar with their routine for playground and canteen processes. If any student has concerns around these structures they should have a conversation with their PALS teachers.

YEAR ASSEMBLIES

Due to Health Advice we are still unable to gather as a cohort for year assemblies inside.  We are holding year assemblies outside under the new covered area on the Basketball courts on each Tuesday morning.  The purpose of the assembly is to highlight positives across the year group in relation to both classroom and extra curricular activities.  This is also on occasion used to realign students with our school processes including use of their diary and the correct wearing of the uniform.  A positive recognition process will start across the year group in the next couple of weeks, which is informed by student voice.

DIARY USE REMINDERS

It is essential that students continue to make efficient use of their diary at St John’s all the way to the end of the year.  Here are some reminders regarding using the diary:

• All students must have their diary with them all day
• At the beginning of every lesson, students should open the diary to the relevant day and place the diary on or near the desk.
• Students should record all homework, assessments, mid-point checks and anything else at the request of the teacher 
• Parents should sight the diary at least once a week and sign the diary, this will continue to be check each extended PALS time on Wednesday’s.
• PALS teachers should check this signature once a week.
• The diary should be signed by the classroom teacher if the student leaves the classroom - to go to the toilet etc
• The diary may be signed by a teacher if the student is late to class for a formal reason
• The diary is essential to the merit system as teachers put red stamps into student diaries as affirmations.

ATTENDANCE

It is essential that students maintain a satisfactory attendance at school.  As part of our attendance process PALS staff monitor students' attendance at regular intervals throughout the term.  For reference, if a student’s attendance drops below 90% an interview takes place between the student and their PALS teacher as a way of supporting the student in relation to any issues that may be related to their absence.  A phone call is then made to the student’s parents / guardians to further support positive connections for the student with the school and a letter alerting to the drop in attendance is mailed home.  This must be continued to be seen as a supportive process to monitor attendance as all evidence points to the fact that a student who attends school regularly will maintain better connections with the community and their level of academic progress will strengthen.