With the rising living costs in the UK, families will need to be mindful of their finances. We wanted to share some of the things we are currently working on in school to ensure we do all we can to limit additional costs for your family.
School Trips and Visits
Enriching the curriculum we deliver with trips and visitors into school is an important part of children’s education. Although we support families facing financial difficulties, unfortunately we cannot fund these activities for all. Friends of Alveston donate money each year towards travel costs and we ask for voluntary contributions from parents.
This year we will be putting a cap on the total parental contribution for the whole year. We will communicate this figure soon and we will introduce a flexible payment system on ParentPay. For example, the total amount can be paid for the year up front, or in smaller, more manageable amounts through the year. This will not only keep costs down but also make the payments more manageable for your individual household.
Swimming Bus Costs
In Years 3 to 6, the school pays for your child's swimming lessons. We ask for a voluntary contribution towards the cost of the bus, which we subsidise. We are hoping to be able to subsidise this further this year and will confirm this additional help next week.
Community Support and Charity Donations
There are so many groups looking for support and as a community we always do our best to help and to teach our children the importance of empathy with those less fortunate than themselves. However sometimes it can feel overwhelming at the number of national and local events which ask for donations and support. This year we have decided we will focus on supporting two causes which are very dear to us and our families, these are the local Food Bank and the Christmas Shoe Box Appeal.
Friends of Alveston
In the coming weeks we are hoping to work with the Friends to agree the fund-raising calendar for the year. We still want to deliver wonderful experiences for our children and families and to raise funds for school if we can, but we will carefully plan these being mindful of the impact this can have on our families.
Book Fayre
Our Book Fayre was booked into the calendar many months ago. Arriving in school next week, (week commencing 12th September) we will go ahead with the fayre, however we will be doing this in a more low-key fashion. It will be in the Community Room all next week for those who may wish to purchase a book or gift, but we will not be publicising this in our usual way.
Benefit Related Free School Meals
Whatever year your child is in, please remember to check if you are eligible for free school meals, and if your circumstances change, check again! In addition to your child continuing to receive free school meals for the rest of their time in primary school, there is so much more financial support both we and Warwickshire County Council are able to provide you. Follow this link for more information.
World Book Day
This year, children may wear their PJs to World Book Day to enjoy a day of bedtime stories. A suggestion from a parent, we agree this is a wonderful idea for the children, whilst saving parents' resources.
