The School Day at Pensilva Primary School
We structure our school day to support children's wellbeing, learning and development by balancing academic focus with movement, creativity, and connection.
Start and End of the Day
- Gates open: 8.40am
- Classroom doors open: 8.45am – 8.50am (promptly)
- Registration and lessons begin: 8.50am
- End of the day: 3.20pm – children are collected from classroom doors
Staff are present at classroom doors each morning and afternoon to greet children, take messages, and strengthen the home-school link.
Drop-off and Collection
Parents are encouraged to come into the playground at drop-off and pick-up times. This helps foster strong relationships between home and school. Please ensure children are not left unattended before 8.45am.
If there are changes to collection arrangements, please inform the school office to avoid confusion or upset.
Getting to School
We encourage families to walk or cycle to school whenever possible. It’s healthier, safer, and more respectful to our neighbours. Bike racks are available on site. If driving is necessary, please park considerately.
Playtimes and Breaks
- Wrens and Doves (EYFS & KS1):
- Morning play: 9.55 – 10.10am
- Afternoon play: 1.55 – 2.10pm
- Puffins and Buzzards (KS2):
- Morning play: 10.45 – 11.00am
All playtimes are 15 minutes and provide children with a chance to refresh, socialise, and reset for learning.
Get Ready Time
Between Reading and Maths lessons, children take part in a short Get Ready Session. This is a movement break designed to activate bodies and minds. During this time, teachers may also carry out small group interventions to support learning.
Curriculum Flow
- Morning:
- The day begins with Reading lessons, including Read Write Inc. Phonics or Reading for Pleasure/English skills.
- Maths and English are taught during the morning when children are most alert and focused.
- Afternoon:
- The afternoon starts with Maths Fluency activities.
- Children then enjoy two Foundation Subject lessons, separated by Assembly, which provides a movement and brain break.
- Each day ends with a shared story, promoting a love of reading and calm reflection.
Lunch Time (12.00-1.00): More Than Just a Meal
Children enjoy a healthy meal followed by time to play, socialise, and take part in a range of engaging activities that support their personal development and interests.
Lunch Time Clubs
Every day, teachers lead a variety of lunch time clubs, offering children an alternative to the playground. These clubs provide opportunities to explore new interests, build friendships and develop skills in a quieter, more focused environment.
Library Access
Our school library is open on a rotational basis, giving each class regular access throughout the week. The library is managed by our Reading Champions, who help foster a love of reading and support their peers in choosing books and enjoying quiet reading time.
Playground Activities
To ensure all children feel included and active, our Sports Leaders organise structured games and activities on the playground, especially for younger children. These sessions promote teamwork, physical activity, and positive social interaction.
Lunch time is a valued part of the day. It is not just for refuelling, but for enriching children's school experience in meaningful ways.