Academy Day
At our academy, every day is carefully structured to support high expectations, strong routines, and exceptional learning. A calm and purposeful Academy Day ensures that pupils feel safe, valued, and ready to learn, while maximising learning time and promoting positive behaviour. Clear routines help pupils develop independence, resilience, and pride in their academy.
At Highfields Primary Academy, the school day runs as follows:
| Year Group | Morning Session | Afternoon Session |
| Nursery | 8:30 am – 11:30 am | – |
| Reception, KS1 and KS2 | 8:30 am – 12:00 pm | 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm |
Start of the Day
The academy day begins with a calm and welcoming arrival. Pupils are expected to arrive punctually, in full academy uniform, ready to engage positively with learning.
To assist with pupils arriving at school on time, we open the school gates at 8:15 am. Classroom doors open at 8:25 am, and all pupils should be in their classrooms, ready to learn, by 8:30 am. The school gates are closed at 8:35 am. Any pupils arriving after this time must enter via main reception and will receive a late mark in the register.
Morning time in class provides an important opportunity for pupils to:
- Settle into the day
- Build positive relationships with staff and peers
- Develop independence and readiness for the day ahead
- Engage in core learning or personal development activities
Punctuality is vital, as it establishes good habits and ensures pupils do not miss valuable learning time.
Lessons
The timetable is designed to provide a broad, balanced, and ambitious curriculum. Lessons are structured to:
- Maximise learning time
- Maintain high expectations for behaviour and effort
- Support challenge, engagement, and progress for all learners
Transitions between lessons are calm and purposeful, ensuring that learning time is protected and pupils move safely around the academy.
Social Times
Breaks and lunchtimes are an important part of the academy day. These times allow pupils to:
- Socialise positively with peers
- Take part in enrichment and physical activities
- Enjoy healthy food choices
Clear expectations remain in place to ensure that social times are safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone.
Personal Development and Enrichment
Personal development is woven throughout the academy day. Pupils benefit from:
- Assemblies focused on values, achievements, and wider life skills
- Opportunities to take on responsibility and develop leadership skills
- Extra-curricular clubs and activities that enrich learning beyond the classroom
These experiences help pupils develop confidence, character, and aspiration.
End of the Day
The academy day ends in a calm and orderly manner. Pupils are dismissed safely and encouraged to:
- Reflect on their learning and achievements
- Prepare for the next school day
- Engage positively in reading and home learning
Strong end-of-day routines support consistency and reinforce high expectations.ations.
