Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When did the school open? How do I apply?

A. DNS opened in September 2011 with years Reception to Year 3, we will become an all -through primary as these children progress up the school. Our next round of applications (for a place for September 2012 entry) is open until 15th January. Parents should apply through West Sussex admissions.

Q.How much are school fees?
A. Nothing. The school is paid directly by government, meaning that parents do not have to pay any fees. The school is able to charge or ask for donations for a small number of other things such as school trips and school meals. This would be like any maintained school.

Q. Will there be a uniform?
A. Yes, we have a smart uniform. For girls it is a tarten kilt or skirt and for boys navy trousers with white formal short sleeve shirt and school jumpers/cardigans for both. Details are sent to parents. We have limited the number of items which are from one supplier only, to one or two iconic items of clothing, with the rest being able to be purchased in most high street shops.This ensures a smart, distinctive uniform, which is not too expensive. Parents who are eligible for free school meals for their child/ren will be eligible for a uniform grant from the school.

Q. My child is 4 in August 2012, when do they start school?
A. We have two intakes during the year, September 2012 and January 2013. Parents can choose which one, or even to go part time in September and become full time in January. For a child with a summer birthday we strongly recommend a January or part time September start. We are happy to discuss this with parents as each child is an individual.

Q. Where will the school be located?
A. The school is located at Broadfield House (the whole building) a fantastic grade II listed building set within the beautiful Broadfield Park, opposite Tilgate Forest and K2 facillties.

Importantly, our admissions policy is not based purely on geographical location to the school. So if you live in Crawley you will be within our catchment area.

Q. Will you admit children with special needs?
A. We are ideal for children with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia as our curriculum places emphasis on multi-sensory teaching and building confidence. We are also suitable for children with learning difficulties who require mainstream education (those children with statements that name us, will get a place). Our staff team has expertise in many areas of special needs. Please do email us to discuss how we could meet your child's needs.

Q. My child is very bright will the school be suitable?
A. Yes. Small class sizes and the Montessori approach allow individual learning to be a reality and our class structures are more flexible allowing children to mix with older pupils. Bright children are often highly inquisitive and in some schools this isn't always encouraged as the teacher has to move the whole class on. At DNS bright children will be encouraged to move at a faster pace or cover the work in more depth. There is no need for all children to be working on the same thing at the same time. Please do email us to discuss how we could meet your child's needs.

Q. Are you a faith school?
A. We are an inclusive school and welcome children from all faiths and none. Faith is not an admission criteria. We do have a Christian character in the Anglican tradition. This means we will celebrate Christian festivals such as Christmas and Easter, say grace and teach children key principles of Christianity (which are shared with many people of other faiths and none) such as compassion and forgiveness. We will also teach respect, understanding and knowledge about other faiths. We firmly believe in the innate worth of all people and value the differences people bring to our school.

Q. Do you set homework?
A. Yes. In early years the main focus reading with your child. In older years (particularly years 5 and 6) topic work will be added to English and Maths homework. However outside clubs and interests are important.

Q Will my child sit SATs tests?
A. Testing requirements are controlled by government and we now understand that it will be a requirement of receiving funding for each child that we take part in the national end of key stage testing (SATs).
We will continually assess children, as we believe it gives a more accurate, continual picture of progress and is less stressful for the child. However as we are required to participate in SATs, we will also do everything we can to gently prepare your child to do their best and also make it less stressful in these tests.