New Parents FAQ and Guides
1. The School Day
What time does school start and finish?
School runs from 08:45 to 15:15 each day (32.5 hours per week), with registration or assembly 08:45–09:00.
What does a “typical day” look like?
- 08:30 – Site opens
- 08:40 – Move to tutor rooms
- 08:45–09:00 – Registration/Assembly
- Five 60‑minute lessons, with break (11:05–11:25) and lunch (13:30–14:15)
Are water bottles allowed on desks?
Yes, water bottles are allowed in lessons except in science labs/DT for safety.
What is the toilet policy?
Generally, pupils are expected to go at break/lunch or during the 5 minutes given to move between lessons. Students are discouraged from asking to use the toilet at the start and end of lessons, but teachers may permit them during a lesson at other times.
2. Homework & Digital Platforms
How is homework set?
Homework is always posted on ClassCharts, accessible via the website or app.
ClassCharts login details?
Parents/carers receive access emails during the first week of term using the email address held in the school system.
How is homework handed in?
It varies by subject:
- Upload on ClassCharts
- Platforms such as Sparx (Maths) or Seneca (various subjects)
- In books or on paper in class
- Teachers may accept emailed work when needed
What is Sparx Maths?
An online platform used for maths homework.
What is Seneca?
A digital learning and revision platform used by several subjects, including science.
What if there’s a submission issue?
Teachers can remove incorrect negative points if an issues has arisen about handing in work. Reprographics can print homework from email attachments via reprographics@thomaskeble.gloucs.sch.uk.
3. Clubs & Activities
How do children join clubs?
Most clubs require no sign‑up—students simply attend. Staff take a register of who has attended each session. Clubs usually finish at 16:15 unless stated otherwise.
Where is the club list?
The full Extra‑Curricular list is on the school website and updated each term (usually within the first two weeks). Look at Curriculum > Extra Curriculum. It is also posted in the weekly Parent Bulletin.
Is there a homework club?
Yes—after school weekly until 16:15. Specific days are posted in the Parent Bulletin each week.
4. Meals, Payments & Cashless Catering
How do pupils pay for meals?
TK uses a cashless catering system (see Information > Cashless Catering) linked to School Gateway. Log in details are share in the first week, parents log in and add money which students can spend at the canteen. On the first day, a partial finger print is taken of each student. Students use this scan to pay at the tills. Parents may opt out and we can provide a pin if preferred.
Is there a daily spend limit or buffer?
Yes, there is a daily spend limit of £5 for each account.
Where can I see menus?
Menus are on the Lunch Menus under the Information tab.page.
5. Communication & Contacts
How do I access ClassCharts?
The ClassCharts page (Information > ClassCharts) explains all features, including behaviour, homework, attendance and timetables. Parents receive login details in the first week.
How do I report an absence?
Report absence via:
- Phone: 01452 770301
- Email: attendance@thomaskeble.gloucs.sch.uk
Parents must notify the school by 10am on the first day, and again each subsequent day.
How do I contact staff?
- Admin: admin@thomaskeble.gloucs.sch.uk [thomaskebl...ucs.sch.uk]
- SENDCo: Emily Belcher – sendco@thomaskeble.gloucs.sch.uk [thomaskebl...ucs.sch.uk]
- General enquiries: admin@thomaskeble.gloucs.sch.uk
Parent bulletins, guides and newsletters are on the Information pages of the website.
What should I do if I have concerns about my child’s wellbeing?
Your child’s tutor is the first point of contact. Tutors are supported by the Head of Year, who can be contacted via admin@thomaskeble.gloucs.sch.uk. (Tutor system is described in general pastoral guidance on the website.)
Student email format
All students receive a school email ending @tksch.uk for Microsoft 365 and platform logins.
6. Settling In
What if my child finds mornings overwhelming?
Please contact your child's Tutor in the first instance to discuss.