Frequently Asked Questions
| Can I withdraw my child from part or whole of the Religious Education curriculum? | Yes, you can withdraw your child from the whole or specific units eg: lessons on specific faith or visits to specific places of worship |
| Can I withdraw my child from the RSE Curriculum (Relationships, Sex Education)? | Yes, you can withdraw your child from certain specific lessons, but you cannot withdraw them from the entire RSE curriculum. At Dashwood Banbury Academy, after consultation with parents and our community, we DO NOT teach sex education. We do however teach statutory lessons that cover: Relationships Education: Lessons covering families, friendships, and staying safe (including online safety) are statutory. Health Education: Essential topics like physical health, mental well-being, and puberty are also statutory. National Curriculum Science: Any biological or scientific aspects of reproduction and human development covered in the science curriculum are mandatory. |
| What should I do if I am worried about a child? | If the child is a pupil at Dashwood you can ask to speak to a Designated Safeguarding Lead. If your concern is during a school holiday or about a non-Dashwood child you can report your concern via the Multi Agency safeguarding hub or get advice from the NSPCC by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk or calling 0808 8005000. |
| I am worried about my child’s mental health, what can I do? | Our Welfare & Inclusion Manager and SENCO can help you if you have concerns. We are able to refer to the Mental Health Support Team or put in place extra nurture sessions. Sometimes children require further help and we can support them with a referral to other mental health services. |
| I am struggling to afford food shopping this week, can you help? | We do have a Dashwood Foodbank that can be accessed during the school day and as often as needed. Please come and see us if you need further support. |
| When should I book my child's school meals? | By the Thursday of the week before. Any lunches that are booked on the day will only be offered jacket potato or pasta. |
| Should I keep my child off school? | If your child is poorly, please read the UK Health guidelines that give advice about whether your child needs to be off from school or can come to school as normal - links below. |