FAQ's
Ever since the 1500s... Frequently asked questions:
Q: When will we be able to purchase the school uniform?
A: The uniform will be available for purchase from the open days on the 7th and 8th
September.
Q: Will second hand uniforms be available to purchase?
A: To start with this is unlikely, but in the future this is something parents might want to
get involved in running.
Q: How much equipment will parents need to provide such as paper, pencils, school
bags etc.?
A: All books and equipment will be provided. Parents do need to purchase a school
bag to carry items from home to school, a Library bag to carry books from home to
school and a PE bag and swimming bag.
Q: How much homework can I expect my child to receive?
A: The homework expectations will vary as pupils progress through the school. The
expectations will be explained to parents at the first Parent Information Meeting.
Q: Which sports will the school focus on?
A: Children will learn the rules and develop the skills in a range of sports, but all the major sports will be covered.
Q: How many extra-curricular activities can my child have each week?
A: Children will generally be able to take part in two ECAs each week, but this might be extended to three depending on numbers.
Q: Is there a homework club with help at hand from teachers?
A: Depending on demand, we may run Homework Club which will also provide some after school care to support working parents. There is likely to be an additional charge for this.
Q: What is the structure of the school day for FS?
A: The school day for FS children is flexible in design and changes during the year to take account for children’s growing levels of concentration and independence.
Q: What is the pre-requisite level of English?
A: In the Foundation Stage we expect children to understand basic instructions and to express their feelings and needs. They also need to have a basic vocabulary in English and be able to count and recognise some letters and colours in English. As children progress up the school we expect a great command of English. From Year 1 upwards English as a second language pupils will be assessed before entry to the school on reading comprehension, spelling, writing skills, mental maths and written maths problems.
Q: How will parents be able to keep up to date with our children's progress?
A: There will be an interim report issued at the end of Term 1 and a longer report at the end of term 3.
There will be two formal parent/teacher consultations. Parents will have an opportunity to make an appointment to see their child’s teacher at any time. We intend to have an open day each term so that parents can see the school in action.
Q: Will parents receive guidance on how to help our children at home?
A: Yes, we will have regular Parent Information Meetings (PIMs) and homework will also include guidance notes for parents
Q: How often will our children have sports and swimming lessons?
A: There will be 2 hours of PE each week. Usually this will be 1 hour of swimming and 1 hour of gymnastics, athletics, dance or games.
Q: Who is my first point of contact if I want to raise a concern with my child's education?
A: If you have any concerns the first point of contact should be your child’s class teacher. Should your concern remain unresolved, the Senior Teacher or the Deputy Head should be approached.
Q: Will my child receive help with reading and have access to books to take home?
A: Children will be taught reading skills each day. Sometimes this is during literacy lessons; sometimes this is in a group situation and sometimes on an individual basis. Reading books will be sent home so that you can share the joy of reading with your child and also support and encourage them.
Q: How many children will be in my child's class?
A: Our maximum class size is 25. To begin with classes will be smaller than this.
Q: Is there an opportunity for me to see my child in class?
A: Yes, we will be holding an Open Day each term.
Q: How can I meet other parents of the school?
A: We will be arranging parent coffee mornings so that parents can meet each other and have an opportunity to establish networks and support. There will also be various opportunities during the course of the school year where parents can meet, for example at Sports Day. Parents may consider approaching the Principal to establish class Parent Reps, or a ‘Friends of Al Ain International School” (FAAIS)
