Support for Families

At Sidlesham, we believe that strong partnerships with families help every child to thrive. Our work with families is rooted in our school values of ambition, confidence, and kindness.

Our Family Worker, Hester Johnson-Cadwell (Miss JC), works closely with children, families, and staff to provide early help and targeted support. Her areas of responsibility include:

• Behaviour – supporting positive behaviour at home and school

• Attendance – working with families to improve attendance and engagement

• Safeguarding – supporting families where there are welfare or safety concerns

• SEND – working alongside staff and families to support children with additional needs

Miss JC works closely with school staff and external agencies where appropriate, helping to ensure that families receive the right support at the right time.

Referral pathway

Support can be accessed by parent or carer self-referral by emailing families@sidleshamprimaryschool.co.uk, or through a school referral made by a member of staff. Where appropriate, concerns are discussed with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and next steps are agreed in line with the school’s safeguarding and SEND procedures.

If you would like advice, support, or simply someone to talk to, please get in touch.

This inbox is monitored by Miss JC and overseen by the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). All enquiries are treated sensitively and professionally. Where a safeguarding concern is identified, the school will follow its safeguarding procedures in line with statutory guidance.

We are committed to working with families with kindness and respect, helping children grow in confidence, and supporting every child to achieve their ambition.

 Useful Resources

cyp se directory 2025 ebook lr.pdf

 Family Support – Home-Start Chichester & District

At Sidlesham Primary School, we know that family life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're adjusting to becoming a parent, navigating challenging behaviour, feeling isolated or simply need someone to talk to, asking for support is a positive step.

We are pleased to signpost families to Home-Start Chichester & District, a local charity offering free, confidential support to families with at least one child under the age of five.

Home-Start can offer:

• Friendly one-to-one support from trained volunteers
• Advice and guidance from experienced Family Coordinators
• Support to understand children's behaviour
• Free Stay and Play groups and a dedicated Baby Group
• Help with parenting, child development and accessing local services
• Opportunities to take part in family activities, trips and outings

Support is tailored to each family's needs and is completely confidential.

Who can access the service?

Any family with at least one child under the age of five who feels they would benefit from some additional support.

How to make a referral

You can refer yourself directly using the online referral form:

Home-Start Chichester & District Referral Form

Alternatively, if you would like support making a referral or would like to talk things through first, please speak to a member of our pastoral team or contact the school office. We are always happy to help.

Supporting families is an important part of our school community, and we encourage anyone who feels they may benefit from additional support to get in touch.