Useful Information

Head lice are a normal part of childhood –with as many as one in ten children experiencing head lice at any time.

Although anyone can get head lice, they are particularly common amongst children of primary school age, who spend more time in close contact with their friends. So you need to be vigilant and check your child’s hair regularly, ideally once every week. The best known symptom is itching, but not all children will itch at first so don’t rely on this.

 Leaving lice untreated can be a cause of distraction and irritation for children.

The good news is that you can deal with head lice quickly and easily if you take the right action. To help you with this we have attached is a copy of the 'Once a Week, Take a Peek' leaflet.  The advice in this leaflet is in line with the latest guidelines on how to deal with head lice, and the content is approved by the Medical Entomology Centre, one of the world’s leading authorities on head lice.

Head Lice - Parents Advice Leaflet

 

Childhood Illnesses – Is My Child Well Enough for School?

It can sometimes be difficult to decide whether your child is well enough to attend the academy.

Children with a mild cough, cold or sore throat can usually attend if they are otherwise feeling well and do not have a high temperature.

If your child has a high temperature or is too unwell to participate in normal activities, they should remain at home until they feel better and their temperature has returned to normal.

Some infectious illnesses have specific exclusion periods.

Further advice: NHS – Is My Child Too Ill for School?

Sickness and Diarrhoea – The 48-Hour Rule

To help prevent infections spreading, children who have been vomiting or experiencing diarrhoea must remain at home until 48 hours after their last episode.

Even if your child appears to have recovered, it is important to follow this guidance to protect other children and staff.

Please inform the academy office if your child is absent due to illness.

Medication in the Academy

If your child requires medication during the academy day, please contact the academy office to discuss the arrangements and complete the necessary forms.

Medication must be provided in its original packaging with the appropriate instructions.

If your child has a medical condition, allergy or healthcare plan, please ensure the academy has up-to-date information.

Our priority is to ensure children receive appropriate support while remaining safe in school.

Healthy Lifestyles

Our Nut-Aware Academy

Barcroft Academy is a Nut-Aware Academy. We ask families not to send foods containing nuts into school to help protect children and adults with serious allergies.

Please check food labels carefully, particularly on chocolate spreads, cereal bars, biscuits, cakes and snack products.

We encourage families to choose nut-free alternatives for packed lunches and snacks.

Thank you for helping us keep our academy community safe.

Healthy Lunchboxes and Snacks

A healthy, balanced diet helps children maintain their energy, concentration and wellbeing throughout the school day.

We encourage parents and carers to provide a variety of nutritious foods, including fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and sources of protein.

Water is the best drink for keeping children hydrated, and children should bring a named water bottle each day.

Please remember that Barcroft Academy is nut-aware when preparing packed lunches and snacks.

Sleep, Screen Time and Healthy Routines

Getting enough sleep is important for children's learning, concentration, behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

Children aged 3–5 generally need around 10–13 hours of sleep in 24 hours, while children aged 6–12 generally need 9–12 hours.

Consistent bedtimes, relaxing evening routines and reducing screen use before bed can help children sleep well.

Encouraging a healthy balance of physical activity, play, family time and screen use supports children's overall development.

Safety and Wellbeing

Supporting Your Child's Emotional Wellbeing

Children experience many different emotions as they grow and learn. It is important that they feel listened to, valued and supported.

Spending time talking together, encouraging children to express their feelings and maintaining consistent routines can help build confidence and resilience.

If your child is experiencing worries about friendships, school or family life, please speak to their class teacher or a member of our pastoral team.

At Barcroft Academy, we work closely with families to ensure every child feels safe, supported and ready to learn.

Further advice: YoungMinds – Parent and Carer Support

Everyday School Life

Encouraging Independence at Home

At Barcroft Academy, we encourage children to become confident, resilient and independent learners.

Families can support this by encouraging children to complete age-appropriate tasks such as getting dressed, organising their school bag, looking after belongings and trying new challenges.

Giving children opportunities to make choices, solve problems and take responsibility helps them develop important life skills.

Remember: Independence does not mean doing everything alone. It means having the confidence to try and knowing when to ask for help.

Need More Help?

We recognise that every family is different and sometimes additional advice or support may be needed.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child's health, wellbeing, attendance or school experience, please contact the academy office or speak to a member of our pastoral team.

At Barcroft Academy, we believe that working together helps every child thrive.

Unlocking Potential Today for a Brighter Tomorrow.