Proposed Home School Agreement & Dress Code

We would like to hear your views about the new Home School Agreement and Dress Code below. Please click here to share your feedback. 

Home–School Agreement  (DRAFT)

This agreement helps us work together to support every child’s learning, happiness and belonging in school.  

The school will:  

• Provide a safe, caring, and welcoming environment
• Work in partnership with families to help every child learn and fulfil their potential
• Celebrate all types of achievement so that everyone experiences success
• Foster a sense of pride, shared responsibility and belonging 
• Teach a broad and balanced curriculum
• Encourage children to do their best at all times
• Keep families informed about their child’s progress and school events through clear communication 
• Be approachable and listen to any concerns
• Promote positive behaviour, respect, and kindness 

 The child will: 

• Try their best in all lessons
• Be kind, polite, and respectful, treating others as they would like to be treated
• Follow school rules and instructions the first time they are given 
• Take care of school property and the environment
• Come to school ready to learn, including appropriate clothing and with the correct equipment (eg book bag) 
• Make the most of opportunities available to them 
• Complete homework to the best of their ability
• Ask for help when they need it

Parents and carers will:  

• Make sure their child attends school on time every day
• Support their child’s learning at home, including reading and homework
• Support the school’s policies,and encourage and model positive behaviour and attitudes 
• Inform the school of any concerns or important information, including changes to contact details
• Attend meetings and school events where possible
• Ensure their child is appropriately dressed and ready for the schoolday 
• Work in partnership with the school, including respondingto communications promptly 
• Raise any concerns about incidents or behaviour with school staff, and not approach, question, or confront other children
• Not use social media to make negative comments about the school, staff, or pupils 
• Speak to staff politely at all times
• and use appropriate language when on school premises 

 Together, we will help every child feel happy, safe, and successful. 

Cotham Gardens dress code for children (DRAFT)

Cotham Gardens does not have a formal school uniform. Our school community has a wide range of views about school clothing. Some families appreciate a consistent school item to help children feel part of a team, while others value the freedom and individuality that comes with not having a uniform.  

Cotham Gardens has an optional school jumper that helps promote: 

• Equality:Reduces visible differences between pupils, helping prevent peer pressure based on clothing. 
• Sense of belonging:Creates a shared identity and promotes school pride. 
• Focus on learning:Minimises distractions from fashion trends and peer pressure. 
• Safety:Makes it easier to identify pupils on trips or in public spaces, especially at sports events 
• Cost control:Can be cheaper for families compared to buying multiple outfits for school. 
• Time-saving:Simplifies morning routines for parents and children.

To help children stay comfortable, active, and ready for learning, we ask that clothing worn to school is practical and suitable for both classroom activities and active play. Accessories should be minimal and safe for physical activity.  

Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED)  

The Equality Act 2010 aims to ensure that people have equality of opportunity in accessing and experiencing public services. Cotham Gardens will not discriminate against anyone on grounds of disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation, gender reassignment or pregnancy.