SCHOOL Communication guide
At Cotham Gardens Primary School, we understand that keeping track of school communications can feel overwhelming - especially if you're new to the school or have multiple children with us. We also know that every family is different: some parents want detailed updates, while others prefer just the essentials.
That's why we've created this guide.
It explains all the communication platforms we use at school, including those run by our parent community (PTAF), so you can choose what works best for your family.
We're constantly working to improve how we communicate with you. This guide reflects our current approach and we'll update it as things evolve.
Why you might receive the same message more than once:
We sometimes send important information through multiple channels to make sure it reaches everyone. If this feels like too much, you can easily adjust your notification settings on apps like ClassDojo and ClassList - we've included instructions on how to do this in the guide below.
📧 Essential Communication Tools
School Office Email (office@cothamgardens.co.uk)
What you can use it for:
- General enquiries
- Updating collection arrangements
- Contacting teachers, SLT or Trustees
What you'll receive:
- Responses to absence requests
- Specific information about your child
💡 Top tip: Always call the office on 0117 3772610 if you have something urgent to report
Absence Reporting
Two easy ways to report absence:
- Report via thee Arbor Parent Portal or App
- Phone: 0117 377 2610 (option 2)
⏰ Important: Report absences by 9am on each day your child is off
Arbor Parent Portal & App ⭐
Your one-stop shop for:
- Booking school meals
- Consenting and paying for trips
- Updating personal information
- Reporting absence
- Tracking attendance
- Booking parent consultation meetings
Getting started: You'll receive an activation email when your child starts school. Haven't got it? Contact the office or click here for instructions.
📱 Download the app for easier access on your phone
Weekly Newsletter 📰
Published every Friday on the school website with important news, events and updates - https://www.cothamgardens.co.uk/News/Newsletters/
💡 Top tip: Make it part of your Friday routine to stay informed
School Website
Find here:
- Term dates
- School policies
- School lunch menus
- Absence request forms
- Newsletter archive
- Information for prospective parents
🌍 Top tip: Use the language dropdown (top right) to view the website in different languages
👨👩👧👦 Keeping Up With Your Child's Learning
ClassDojo ⭐
What your child's teacher shares:
- Weekly timetables
- Homework
- Photos and updates about learning
What you can do:
- Share your child's learning at home on their portfolio
- Send non-urgent messages to the teacher
- View the class story page for class updates
- Check the school story page for important reminders
Getting started: You'll receive an email invitation when your child joins. Check your junk folder if you can't find it.
💡 Top tips:
- You don't need to pay for extra features
- Check ClassDojo at least once a week
- Turn off notifications if they're too frequent (instructions here)
- For official communication, use the office email instead
Wrap Around Care
Zebras (breakfast/after-school care): Book here
Shine After-School Clubs: Book here
Chandos Atelier: Book here
⚠️ Remember: Places are limited - book in advance!
🤝 Community & Parent Connections
Social Media
Follow for photos, videos and school news
ClassList
PTAF Communication platform (not run by school)
What it's for:
- PTAF event sign-ups
- Connecting with other parents
- Community messages
Joining:
- If you consented on your admission form, PTAF will add you
- Otherwise, sign up via the ClassList website or app
💡 Top tip: The app is more user-friendly than the website. You can turn off notifications in 'Profile & Settings'
WhatsApp Class Groups
Informal parent groups (not run by school)
To join: Ask your PTAF class rep
⚠️ Please note:
- These are not affiliated with the school
- No obligation to join
- You can mute messages at any time
- Please respect others' privacy and views
📋 Quick Reference:
| I need to... | Use this... |
|---|---|
| Report my child absent |
Arbor or phone 0117 3772610 (by 9am) |
| Book a school meal | |
| Consent for a school trip | |
| Update contact details | |
| See what homework is set or my child's timetable | ClassDojo |
| Book parents' evening | |
| Find term dates | |
| Message my child's teacher |
ClassDojo (non-urgent) School office email (official or urgent) |
| Book wrap-around care | |
|
Connect with other parents |
ClassList or WhatsApp groups |
Your feedback matters:
If you have suggestions about how we can communicate more effectively, please let us know by emailing office@cothamgardens.co.uk.