Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions & Transition
What is the admissions process and key deadlines for applications?
Admissions are managed through the Essex Council’s online system. You can apply for a year 7 place for September 2025 between 12 September and 31 October 2024. Parents will be notified of the outcome in March 2025 by Essex Council, and by their School. The James Hornsby School then follows this up with an electronic admissions form that asks questions about the student and their parents\guardians, with a deadline to be completed by Easter.
How do you support students transitioning from primary to secondary school?
We have a dedicated transition program, which includes visits to primary schools, induction days here, and opportunities to meet key staff, including tutors and pastoral leaders. We also run a summer school for students in the first week of the summer holidays so that they can get to know the staff.
Are there any induction days or transition activities for new students?
Yes, we have an induction day in July where students can experience a day at the school. There are also welcome evenings for parents, and our transition team works closely with primary schools to ensure a smooth start.
How are students placed into classes or registration groups?
We gather information from primary schools about students’ strengths, friendships, and additional needs. At the James Hornsby School we use Vertical registration groups, meaning these groups will have a range of years within. We aim to create balanced registration groups that support both academic and social development. Parents can express preferences, which we consider when possible.
Pastoral Care & Well-being
What support systems are in place for students' mental health and well-being?
We have a comprehensive pastoral care system that includes registration tutors, heads of colleges, and external partnerships with mental health services. We also run mental health awareness workshops for both staff and students. We run termly well-being questionnaires which aim to raise hidden problems.
How does the school handle bullying or peer conflict?
We have a zero-tolerance policy on bullying. Incidents are taken seriously and are addressed promptly through mediation, restorative practices, and consequences where necessary. We encourage open communication between students and staff, and students can report issues to any staff member.
What is the role of the registration tutor or head of college in supporting students?
Registration tutors are the first point of contact for students and check in with them daily. Heads of College provide broader oversight and are responsible for the academic and pastoral progress of students in their year group. They work closely with parents and other staff to ensure students are supported.
Is there a school counsellor or pastoral team available for students?
Yes, each college has a dedicated pastoral officer who is available for students in need of emotional support.
How do you help students settle in, especially those who may struggle socially or emotionally?
We offer a range of support for students who may struggle with the transition, including mentoring programs, and social skills workshops. We also liaise with parents and primary schools to identify those who may need extra attention early on.
School Environment & Student Support
What are the behaviour policies, and how are discipline issues handled?
Teachers and all staff expect the highest standards of behaviour from students in lessons and around the school. Staff set explicit, high standards and do not accept poor behaviour, work or lack of respect. We use a system of positive reinforcement alongside clear consequences for inappropriate behaviour. We aim to handle issues in a restorative manner to encourage personal growth. More detail can be found here.
How do you promote positive behaviour and reward achievement?
We have a rewards system in place, which includes achievement points, certificates, and prizes for positive behaviour, attendance, and effort. We also celebrate successes in assemblies and on our digital platforms.
What support is available for students with additional needs (SEN, EAL)?
We have a dedicated team of SENCOs and their support department, who work with students, staff, and families to create individual support plans. This can include in-class support, one-on-one sessions, and specialised learning resources. For students with EAL (English as an Additional Language), we offer additional language support.
How do you monitor attendance, and what is the policy on absences?
Attendance is monitored daily, and parents are contacted if a student is absent without notification. We work closely with parents to address any barriers to attendance, and persistent absences are referred to the local authority.
What measures are in place to ensure the safety and security of students?
The school site is secured with CCTV, gated entry, and staff on duty at key times. We have a robust safeguarding policy, and all staff are trained to handle issues related to student safety. Visitors must sign in and out, and students are supervised during breaks and lunchtime.
Free School Meals & Financial Support
How do you apply for free school meals?
Applications for free school meals can be made through the Free School Meal’s website. The school office can assist parents with the process if needed. All year 6 students currently in receipt of FSM will continue to receive the entitlement when they start here under transitional protection. You do not need to reapply.
What is the process for eligibility checks for free school meals or pupil premium?
The system checks eligibility for free school meals. Families who qualify are also eligible for pupil premium funding, which provides additional resources for their child. We use this funding for targeted support, such as additional tutoring, resources, and trips. Students already in receipt of FSM or PP do not need to reapply - those entitlements will come over from the primary school during transition.
Are there financial support schemes for uniforms, school trips, or other costs?
We understand that financial concerns can arise for some families. While we don’t have formal financial support schemes, we do consider requests on a case-by-case basis, with discretion. For pupils eligible for Pupil Premium, additional support may be available to help with uniform, school trips, and other costs, in line with our strategy to support disadvantaged learners. Please contact the school office for more information.
Meals & Nutrition
What does the school’s catering service provide? Are there healthy meal options?
Our school canteen provides a range of healthy and nutritious meals, with vegetarian, vegan, Halal, and gluten-free options available daily. We adhere to government guidelines on school meal standards. We offer a variety of affordable meal deals for all students; our menus can be found here.
How are allergies or dietary needs handled?
All dietary needs are taken very seriously. Parents can inform the school about any allergies or specific requirements, and our catering team ensures meals are safely prepared to accommodate these needs. We undertake an annual healthcare questionnaire with our parents to make sure we have the most up-to-date information about our students.
Can students bring their own packed lunches, and are there facilities for this?
Yes, students can bring packed lunches, and there are designated areas where they can eat. We encourage healthy eating habits for packed lunches as well.
What is the school’s policy on students staying hydrated during the school day?
We strongly encourage students to bring in and refill their own water bottles at one of our many refill points.
ICT & Computer Systems
What digital systems do students use for learning (e.g., Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams)?
We use Google Classroom for assignments and communication between students and teachers. Students can access resources, submit work, and receive feedback through the platform.
Are there opportunities for students to use computers outside lesson times (e.g., in the library)?
Yes, we have computers available in the library that are available for students to use before school, during breaks, and after school. A homework club is held after school in an IT Room.
Does the school provide devices for students, or are they expected to bring their own?
No we don’t provide devices, but we try to ensure that no student is disadvantaged by a lack of access to technology as much as we possibly can. We ask that students do not use their mobile phones during the school day, and if they have brought their phone to school, it should be turned off and in their school bag.
How do parents access the school’s online systems (e.g., for homework, reports, attendance)?
Parents can access our parent portal: Class Charts, which allows them to monitor attendance, behaviour, progress reports, and homework. We also communicate regularly via email and Class Charts Announcements.
Extracurricular & Enrichment
What extracurricular activities and clubs are available for students?
We offer a wide range of clubs, including sports, music, drama, science, and technology. Students are encouraged to participate to develop new skills and interests outside the classroom.
How do you support students in developing non-academic skills, such as leadership or teamwork?
We offer leadership programs, including student leadership team. Teamwork is promoted through group projects, sports teams, and collaborative extracurricular activities.
Are there any after-school care or homework clubs?
Yes, we have after-school homework clubs where students can complete assignments with the support of staff.
Parent-School Communication
How does the school communicate with parents (e.g., emails, parent portal, newsletters)?
We use emails, a parent portal: Class Charts, and weekly letters from the Headteacher to keep parents informed about school events and their child’s progress. Parents can also attend parent-teacher meetings and access information through our website.
Is there a system for parents to monitor their child's progress and attendance online?
Yes, the Class Charts allows parents to track their child’s attendance, behaviour, and academic progress. You can log in at any time to view updates.
How accessible are teachers or staff if I need to discuss my child's well-being or issues?
Teachers and pastoral staff are accessible via email to reception or by appointment. We encourage regular communication, and parents can reach out to the Pastoral Team for any concerns.
Uniform & Appearance
What is the school’s uniform policy?
All students are expected to wear school uniform. Our aim is that every student develops a sense of pride in themselves in relation to their appearance and as members of the school and community. Students are required to wear the embroidered JHS blazer, tie (given during transition), a white buttoned shirt and black trousers or skirts. We also have a dress code for PE and other activities. The complete list of uniform requirements is detailed in our school handbook and here.
Are there any restrictions on hairstyles, jewellery, or makeup?
Hairstyles should be neat and conventional. Extreme styles or unnatural colours are not allowed. Students are permitted to wear small stud earrings and a wristwatch. Other jewellery should be minimal for safety reasons. Makeup, if worn, should be subtle and appropriate for school.
Where can the school uniform be purchased, and is there a second-hand option available?
Uniforms can be purchased from our official uniform supplier, Penn UK, whose details are provided on our school website. We also have a second-hand uniform shop, Laindon School Uniform Bank, that operates throughout the year, where parents can buy or donate pre-loved items.
Can students wear additional items like hoodies or non-uniform jackets?
Non-uniform jackets, hoodies, and other items are not permitted during the school day. Students should wear their school blazer or an appropriate school-approved outer garment. We recommend that students bring these items to school in a bag to avoid wearing them in class.
Travel & Logistics
Transport Options
We're conveniently located near local bus stops on St. Nicholas Lane, making public transport an easy option for students. Additionally, we can offer student discount bus codes to help reduce travel costs. Please contact finance@thejhs.co.uk for more details on how to apply.
Are there safe cycling or walking routes to the school?
Yes, we promote safe cycling and walking routes. There are bike racks available on the school premises. However, scooters and bikes are left at the owner's risk, and we strongly advise using a sturdy bike lock.
What are the start and finish times for the school day?
The school day starts at 8:30 AM and ends at 3:00 PM. Years 7 – 10 have 5 lessons each day. Year 11s have an additional lesson 3 – 4pm for GCSE Revision. Students have a mid-morning break, and lunch break. The school gates open at 8:00 AM for students who need to arrive early, and after-school activities and clubs run until approximately 4:15 PM. Club timetables can be found on our website.
