Be who God created you to be and you will set the world on fire!
St Catherine of Siena
Parental Support
We know that there are many challenges faced by our families, especially due to the impact of Covid-19 and lockdown. If at any time you would like to speak to the school in confidence, please email head@st-catherine.herts.sch.uk .
Sources of support:
Mental Health and Well-being
If you or your child are experiencing mental health challenges, support is available through the following websites:
For out of hours mental health support please feel free to contact MIND on their crisis line.
Are you experiencing domestic abuse? You are not alone.
Survivors of domestic abuse may feel particularly alone & at risk during social distancing and self-isolation. Domestic abuse isn’t just physical violence. It’s a pattern of behaviours used to control a current/ex-partner or family member & can include emotional, psychological, financial & sexual abuse. Where there is domestic abuse within the home or family, children are at risk.
- For 24/7 advice for yourself or someone else, no matter where you live, please contact the freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- If you or someone else is in immediate danger always call police on 999. If you cannot speak, press 55 and the operator will know you need silent support
Financial Support
Many people’s financial situation has changed as a result of Covid-19. If you believe that you may be entitled to Free School Meals, please follow the link below to apply.
Is your child entitled to free school meals? If so, they qualify for Pupil Premium which is additional funding the school receive to spend on YOUR CHILD. (£1,320) This additional money is available from central government for every child whose parent is receiving one of the benefits listed below.
Children entitled to free school meals may then receive:
- free school meals;
- booster lessons;
- interventions and group teaching which allow us to reduce class sizes;
- additional resources;
- additional learning support in a number of areas.
Your child might be eligible for Pupil Premium if you currently receive one of the following:
Universal Credit (provided you have an annual net earned income of no more than £7,400);- Income Support;
- Income – based Jobseeker’s Allowance;
- Income – related Employment and Support Allowance;
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999;
- The guarantee element of Pension Credit;
Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit.
Does my child have to eat the free school meals?
No. Pupils who are registered for free school meals don’t have to eat them. If you are eligible but you want your child to have a packed lunch you should still register because of the other benefits to your child and the school.
How do I register?
Ask the school office for a form, or download the form here. If you are unsure, please do ask a member of the office staff who will be more than happy to help you.
Since Sept. 2014, all Reception, Y1 and Y2 children have qualified for free school meals, regardless of family income. But some of these children are also entitled to pupil premium and the huge benefits this brings. It is really important that we access the funding your child is entitled to.