School Day

The School Day (School Hours)

• Welcoming Start*: 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

• Period 1: 9:30 AM - 10:20 AM

• Period 2: 10:20 AM - 11:10 AM

• Morning Break: 11:10 AM - 11:25 AM

• Period 3: 11:25 AM - 12:15 PM

• Period 4: 12:15 PM - 1:05 PM

• Lunch Break: 1:05 PM - 1:50 PM

• Period 5: 1:50 PM - 2:40 PM

• Period 6: 2:40 PM - 3:15 PM

• End-of-Day Reflection*: 3:15 PM - 3:30 PM

Welcome Start*

At Riverside, each day begins with our Welcome Start - a calm, structured routine that helps our young people settle into the day feeling safe, supported, and ready to learn.

The Welcome Start promotes wellbeing, communication, and emotional readiness, giving every pupil the chance to connect with staff, build relationships, and prepare for the day ahead.

Our Morning Routine Includes:

🍎 Breakfast / Snack Time
Pupils are welcomed into a relaxed environment where they can enjoy breakfast or a morning snack. This calm start encourages conversation, routine, and positive social interaction.

😊 Emotions Check-In
Each pupil takes part in a simple emotions check-in, helping staff understand how they’re feeling and providing an opportunity for support if needed.

🗓️ Timetable Check-In
Together, we go through the plan for the day - talking about lessons, activities, and any changes to the routine. This helps pupils feel secure, prepared, and in control of their day.

🥪 Choose Lunch
Pupils make their lunch choices for the day, supporting independence and communication, while helping the kitchen team prepare efficiently.

🚶‍♀️ Daily Mile / Movement Time
We finish the Welcome Start with a short session of physical activity, such as the Daily Mile, indoor exercise (if extreme weather) or outdoor movement. This helps boost focus, concentration, and overall wellbeing before learning begins.

End-of-Day Reflection*

What Happens During End of Day Reflection:

💬 Sharing Successes
Pupils and staff take time to talk about what went well during the day - celebrating successes, effort, and positive choices. This builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

🧠 Reflecting on Learning
Together, we discuss what we learned, what we found challenging, and what we’d like to work on next. This encourages ownership of learning and self-awareness.

😊 Emotions Check-Out
Just as we check in at the start of the day, pupils check out by sharing how they’re feeling. This helps staff recognise emotional progress and supports wellbeing.

📅 Preparing for Tomorrow
We finish by looking ahead to the next day - talking about any upcoming activities or changes to routines, helping pupils feel organised and reassured.

🎵 Calm Finish
Ensure everyone leaves school relaxed and settled for the bus journey home.