Changes for September 2024

As we approach the new academic year, we'd like to share some updates to our school policies for September. These are all designed to enhance the learning environment and promote student well-being.  These changes are outlined below and are also explained in the video: 

Timetable

In response to feedback, we are moving to a one-week timetable. As a result of this, timings during the school day have also changed. Click here to view the new times of the day.

Students will still arrive at 8:25am and finish at 3pm. However, each day will start with 15 minutes of tutor time from 8:30am. This will allow students to be set up for the day and have an opportunity to check in with their tutor before lessons start. All students will need to arrive in their full uniform and with correct equipment at the start of each day. 

Lessons will be 50 minutes long with students completing some double lessons throughout the week. Lunchtime will remain split as it is now.

Uniform

We're introducing some subtle changes to the school uniform policy. These are to encourage a more professional appearance for all students. The changes are highlighted in bold on our uniform policy here. 

These changes include:

• Skirts to be pleated and knee length

• Shorts to be tailored knee length

• Socks can be plain black or white

• Nails to be discreet in length and colour 

As always, if you are finding it difficult to buy your child a school uniform, please do get in touch as we have a hardship fund to support families with this.

Mobile Phones

Following national government guidance, we are introducing a new mobile phone policy.  Whilst we recognise the importance of technology in our lives, we want a school day which is focused on learning and free from distractions. Click here to view our policy.  

From September, all students will be required to store their phones in a Yondr pouch throughout the school day. Yondr pouches are secure, lockable cases that prevent students from accessing their phones but allow them to carry them safely throughout the day. This will not affect their phone use on the way to and from school. 

Click here to watch a short video which demonstrates how these pouches work. 

You can also find some useful frequently asked questions here. 

We understand that these changes will take some time for our students to get used to but we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition. We will be providing Yondr pouches free of change to all students in the main school at the beginning of term. 

Home / School Agreement 

We have updated our home / school agreement. This short document outlines what you can expect from us as a school, what we expect from you as a parent or carer and what we expect from your child. Click here to view a copy of this. 

We will be hosting information sessions for parents and carers on Wednesday 10th July. The first is at 4pm at the Academy in the Theatre. The second will be an online session on the same day at 6pm.The online link to attend this can be found here.  These have been arranged to enable us to answer any questions you may have about the changes for September. 

We believe these updates will create a more positive learning environment for all students. If you have any questions before the information sessions, please do not hesitate to contact us via contactus@rydeacademy.org or by calling Reception on 01983 567331.