How long will it take to get to East Coker Primary?

We are only a few minutes drive from Yeovil and we have ample parking as parents can use the village hall which is close by. Parking is available at the village hall just round the corner or on the main road.

I am not in the school catchment area, will I be able to get a place?

We currently take in 30 pupils each year in Reception. The past several years intake has been around 28. 

What adult support will my child get in addition to their class teacher?

Each class has a teaching assistant every morning to support with the core subjects. For our Reception children, there is a teaching assistant supporting in the afternoons and additional adult time for extra learning support, if required. In all other classes teaching assistant time in the afternoon is for additional support and interventions. We have a sports coach who works with every class at least once a week. We also have additional Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants who support with individual and small group interventions and Forest School provision which is open to everyone.

What are your September induction procedures like?

Our children are invited to attend full time from day one, unless parents feel their child requires part time.

Are the children taught in mixed age classes?

We currently have single aged classes up until Year 5 and Year 6 which are mixed. This will phase out as the single aged classes move up the school. 

Every child is taught the appropriate curriculum for their age regardless of mixed year groups in one class. Teachers ensure the children are taught the correct learning objectives for their year group. This is done through group work or by splitting the class. In some cases the learning objectives can be taught as a whole class. 

How many children are there in a class?

This varies by class with the overall average about 29. We aim to keep the numbers as low as financially possible. 

What happens if my child needs extra support?

All children's social and academic achievements are carefully monitored. At any point if staff or parents have any concerns we will start our 'graduated' response. This means our special educational needs coordinator , SENCO, will observe the pupil in class, chat to parents and staff and identify if additional support is needed. The SENCO will communicate regularly with parents during this time and discuss any further support or assessments which may be required. This will be reviewed regularly and further support put in place if required. 

My child has a special educational need, how can you help?

Firstly please contact the school for an appointment so we can discuss your child's needs and the support they require. We would then create a plan of support which will include a transition programme, discussion with relevant early years and/or medical professionals and take on board current provision and medical plans in place. We have staff who have received a wide range of training on autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, speech and language and sensory needs among others. 

Do you provide universal free school meals?

All infant children have the option for free school meals. Our school meals are provided by 'The Hungry Tree' and food is locally sourced. We provide a range of hot meals and cater for vegetarians and those who have food allergies .

What additional breakfast and after school care is available for my child?

The school runs its own breakfast and after school clubs. KINGFISHERS wrap around care service is available from 7.30am-8.45am and 3.30pm-6pm Monday to Fridays. Please contact the school for further information.

Would my child get to visit in the summer term before they start school?

We offer a number of sessions and events in the summer term from May which includes children spending time in the classroom with their new teachers and an information evening for parents. An invite will be sent out after you have received confirmation of a school place. 

What support will my child get if they are finding it hard to settle into school?

We want to make sure your child's start to school life is a positive one. If at any point you or our staff feel your child is finding things difficult we will discuss changes to the provision with you. Changes will depend on what the underlying issues are. If attending full time is too challenging, then we will discuss a timetable which will support your child. We would normally expect a child to be in full time by October half term depending on their emotional and learning needs. 

If you have any questions which have not been answered please either book an appointment to speak to the Head Teacher or email the school with your queries. We are here to help.