At Burghfield StMarys, around 33% of our children come from a service family – something which we feel makes our school a really special place. All of our teachers and support staff appreciate the impact that being a service child can have on education and have completed the “Nurturing Schools Program”.
We operate a buddy system for new pupils to help them with the transition to their new school.
In addition we have two dedicated ELSAs (Emotional Literacy Support Assistants) within school who regularly work with ‘service family’ children guiding them through any worries or concerns, whilst also being on hand to celebrate achievements with them too. Our ELSA representatives are Mrs Tracy Little and Mrs Emma Warkup.
Military Mates Club – Every Thursday 12:30 – 13:05
All Service children are invited to join our Military Mates Club, run by one of our ELSAs, Mrs Warkup. The children have an opportunity to speak with others about a variety of topics, such as what it is like to have a parent or carer in the forces, what countries and places they have lived in and what it is like to move school.
The games, skills and crafts enable the children to get to know each other, practise their teamwork skills and simply have a giggle. Each child is allowed to bring a non-military friend along.