We have a true open-door policy as we recognise the importance of sharing information, worries or concerns. We therefore encourage parents to keep an open line of communication between home and school. By working together, with a mutual honesty and respect, we can ensure we provide the best support we can for your child.

We use the free “Parentmail” email and texting service which ensures efficient contact between home and school whilst reducing our environmental impact and further demonstrating our eco-friendly approach. 

Our headteacher writes to parents weekly via our whole-school newsletter. This keeps parents informed about what is happening in school, achievements to celebrate, important diary dates and much more.

Admissions and Transfers

We currently admit 60 pupils each year in Reception and Key Stage 1 and up to 64 per year group in Key Stage 2.

​If the school has more applications for places than are available, the Local Authority’s admission policy is implemented. A copy of this policy can be obtained from the office or from Cumbria County Council. Children are eligible for admission to the Nursery at the beginning of the school term following their third birthday, and then into the Reception class in the September of the school year in which they are five (under the Local Authority policy admission to Nursery does not automatically entitle admission to the Reception class). Nursery and Reception open days are arranged to give prospective parents the opportunity to visit before applying for a place; alternatively visits can be arranged by contacting the school office. An induction process is in place to enable staff to get to know new children and for children to become familiar with our school. This includes staff visits to feeder nurseries and playgroups, visits to the school by children and parents and home visits. This induction procedure helps all children to make a positive start to their school life.

Secondary Liaison and Joint Working

We enjoy very good relationships with our partner secondary schools.

The headteachers meet on a regular basis and our teachers work in partnership with secondary colleagues both at Heron Hill and during visits to the secondary schools. At the age of eleven most Year 6 pupils transfer to Kirkbie Kendal School or Queen Katherine School for their secondary education; some choose other local secondary schools. There is considerable liaison to support children’s smooth transition into the next stage of their school career.

​Wider Community Links

• We have a strong partnership with training providers for both teachers and teaching assistants.
• The curriculum is enriched through a variety of partnerships which include creative practitioners, our strong international links, the local church and the wider community.
• ​The school holds a number of events each year to support local, national and international charities. These help to raise our pupils’ awareness of the needs of others and develop them as future citizens. Children In Need, Comic Relief and Fairtrade events are but a few examples.