Frequently Asked Questions

What will my son or daughter need to bring on their first day in September?

All pupils will be in full school uniform. They will need to bring in equipment listed on the uniform page e.g. pens, reading book etc… They should also bring a drink bottle, which can be refilled at key points during the day.  

What will my son or daughter do in the first week of term?

The first week will introduce your son or daughter to our expectations and learning habits.  We will also carry out some baseline testing, including a reading test, so that our teachers can plan their lessons to ensure all pupils progress well. 

Can my son or daughter bring a packed lunch?

Yes. Your child is able to bring a packed lunch. 

How do I pay for food or other activities?

All payments can be made via your ParentPay account.  If your son or daughter is in receipt of a Free School Meal, then there is no charge. Trips and visits are also available via the MCAS app. 

What time does school start and end?

Pupils are welcome on site any time from 8:30am.  Lessons run from 9:00am until 3:30pm every day. 

How many lessons are there in a day?

There are 6 fifty-minute lessons each day.  In addition, all students have a morning tutorial where they meet with their tutor for 30 minutes. 

Is my son or daughter allowed a mobile phone in school?

Pupils may bring a phone to and from school, but it must be put in the phone box at the front of the classroom at the beginning of the lesson. Students collect their phone at the end of the lesson where it must be put in their bag. If you need to contact your son or daughter, please call Reception or their Pastoral Leader.  

Which entrance should my son or daughter use?

Students should enter the school via the main school gates and into the playground. Pupils must be in through the school gates by 8.50am at which point the gates will be locked. 

Will my son or daughter receive homework?

Yes.  Homework is set on a Wednesday and due in on the next Wednesday. Homework is set through Seneca and Googleclassroom.

Will DCCA provide additional support for homework?

Yes.  Pupils are able to access homework support after school in the Library. 

What do I do if my child is not able to attend school due to illness?

Please contact us on 01304 820126 (option 1) by 9:00am if your child is going to be absent from school. 

Where can I buy the uniform from?

Uniform items are available to order via the Price and Buckland website:  https://www.pbuniform-online.co.uk/turner

What shoes are acceptable for school?

All shoes must be: sensible; plain black.  

When should pupils bring in their PE kit?

Pupils will need to ensure they bring their PE kit on days when PE is on their timetable. They should also bring their PE kit into school for any extra-curricular clubs, or sporting fixtures. Please make sure all of your child's uniform is labelled.

Will my son or daughter take part in trips?

Yes, we are hoping to offer a range of trips, which will bring learning to life for our Pupils. Often pupils will get a range of experiences from out Turner 25 offer. We will always endeavour to ensure that you are given plenty of notice and that any costs are kept to a minimum.

Will my son or daughter be able to take part in extra-curricular activities?  Will there be a cost?

Yes.  We will publish details of extra-curricular activities each term. These will include sports, the arts, etc… We will endeavour to provide as many activities for free as possible.  However, where we may need to bring in additional coaches, there may be a small cost to parents.  Pupils are welcome in school until 4:30pm every day at homework club.