Times of the school day

School Opening Times

At St Mary's Catholic Primary School, we believe that punctuality and consistent attendance are essential for our pupils to thrive and reach their full potential. As a Voluntary Aided School, we are committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where every child can grow in their faith and academic abilities.

 The Importance of Punctuality

Our school day begins promptly at 8:35 am, and we encourage all our pupils to arrive on time and ready to learn. When children arrive late, they can miss important instructions and activities, which can disrupt their learning and that of their classmates. Punctuality also helps children develop essential life skills, such as responsibility and self-discipline.

 Arrival and Dismissal Times

• The school gates open at 8:35 am, and we ask that all pupils arrive by 8:45 am at the very latest, when the school doors close, and the register is taken.
• For the safety of our children, the gates are locked at 8.45 am. Any late arrivals will need to enter through the main office and will be recorded as late.
• Our school day ends at 3:15 pm, and we ask that all parents/carers collect their children promptly. The school gates will be opened at 3:10 pm to allow for a smooth dismissal.
• If you are unable to collect your child at the end of the day, please contact the school office as soon as possible to make alternative arrangements.

Promoting Attendance and Punctuality

At St Mary's, we believe that regular attendance and punctuality are essential for our pupils to thrive and succeed. We work closely with our families to ensure that every child is in school and on time, as outlined in our school's attendance policy.

 We understand that there may be occasional circumstances that prevent a child from attending school, and we ask that parents/carers inform the school office as soon as possible. However, we encourage all families to prioritise school attendance and make every effort to ensure their children arrive at school on time, ready to learn and grow in our nurturing, faith-filled community.

 For more information about our school's opening times, attendance, and other policies, please visit our website or contact the school office.

Breaktime

Early morning whole school breaktime is between 10.30 and 10.40am

Lunch

Children have their lunch between 12 and 1pm

Drop-off and Collection

At the beginning and end of the school day, parents are welcome onto the playground. At St. Mary’s we pride ourselves on the close relationship between parents and school – good links here benefit your child’s learning and strengthen our school community. If for any reason, normal arrangements have to be altered (eg you are delayed or another person is collecting your child) please let us know asap. Thank you

Getting to School

If you travel to school by car, please park sensibly along Coronation Crescent as the school car park is for staff only. Also please do not park in the bus layby on Parkway as it is designated for buses only.   Alternatively as a Healthy School’s Award holder we would encourage you to walk! There are lots of benefits: it’s great exercise and it respects nearby residents and parking regulations. Alternatively, we have bike-racks.  

Assemblies and Collective Worship times    

Mon	Collective Worship
Tues	Singing
Weds 2.40-3.00	Whole School Collective Worship based upon Wednesday Word
Thurs  2.40-3.00	Celebrations
Fri 2.30-3.00	God's World: Picture News or Eco Schools Assembly

After School Clubs

We offer a range of After School Clubs which take place on several evenings between 3.15pm and 4pm.