Frequently Asked Questions
How can I support my child with the transition, especially if they are feeling anxious?
It is normal for children to feel anxious about this big change. Encourage them to talk about their worries and reassure them that it's okay to feel this way. The school has a dedicated pastoral team to support students.
Start by familiarising yourself with the Parents section of the school website:
Click on the link below for a useful guide for parents whose children are moving into Year 7.
You may also find Rooks Heath’s Safeguarding newsletters helpful.
How can I stay updated on school events and announcements?
Regular updates will be sent via email and posted on the school's website. Make sure the school has your current contact information. We also have very active social media platforms, so please start following us! The links are at the top of this website.
Do I need to have the My Child at School App?
Yes! From checking your child’s behaviour points, to viewing homework being set by teachers, to buying food from the canteen, to paying for trips, My Child at School is essential for all parents and carers.
What if my child has special educational needs?
Our SENDCo, Mrs Wright, and her team are available to discuss any specific needs and ensure appropriate support is in place. Please contact the Learning Support Department at contactus@rooksheath.harrow.sch.uk
Who do I speak to about the Most Able programme?
Please contact Ms Cohen, our Most Able Co-ordinator, for information about how students qualify for the programme.
How can my child buy food at school?
Our canteen is called The Rookery, and like the rest of the school, operates a cashless payment system. When you child joins us, their biometric ‘fingerprint’ will be taken, which will become linked to an account that you will create on the My Child at School (Bromcom) app on your device.
What if my child loses an item of clothing or a personal item?
Please make sure that every item of clothing is labelled or initialled with your child’s name. Your child should first return to the classroom or area of the school. If the item is not there, they should go to Student Support in room BF5, to see if it has been handed in a lost property. If the item cannot be found, you will need to provide a replacement.
How can I get a locker for my child?
We have a limited supply of lockers. Please ask at the school reception desk. If there is availability, you will need to provide a £20 deposit.
Are classes mixed ability or are students taught in sets?
In Year 7 and Year 8, all students are in mixed-ability classes. They are taught in Tutor Groups for all subjects, except for languages, design technology, food technology and PE. Teachers adapt their teaching to cater for the range of strengths in their classes. In Year 9, setting takes place in maths.
How will be my child be monitored and assessed academically?
The school takes your child’s Key Stage 2 results, or equivalent prior data, and converts these into ‘Flight Paths’. You will be informed of your child’s Flight Path at the Settling-In Evening in October. Please see here for further information about Flight Paths and academic reporting.
How do I contact one of my child’s teachers?
Please email the Form Tutor, the subject teacher or other member of staff on contactus@rooksheath.harrow.sch.uk, including their name or their role in the email subject heading.
Please note that in most secondary schools, the first point of contact is normally the Form Tutor, who you will meet / will have met at the Transition events in the Summer Term.
Are there any clubs that my child can attend?
Yes! Our extra-curricular programme is extensive, and all clubs can be found on the website.
My child needs medication during the school day – who will take of this?
Our Welfare department will work with you and your child, so please do not worry. Make sure that you have filled in the Administration of Medication form, and this will be shared with the Welfare team.
Contact Us
If you have any further questions or need additional information, please don't hesitate to contact us on 020 8422 4675 or contactus@rooksheath.harrow.sch.uk