Illnesses and school absence
As we go in to autumn, it’s more likely that children and adults will pick up seasonal illnesses. Public Health Dorset has information on what to do if your child:
- falls ill with COVID-19 symptoms
- tests positive for COVID-19
- tests negative for COVID-19
- is showing symptoms not associated with COVID-19
Illness and school absence information
Face coverings on school transport
Children at secondary and upper schools in Dorset are asked to wear face coverings on buses unless they are exempt.
Check our schools and learning page for the latest COVID-19 updates on early years settings and schools in Dorset.
Read updates on schools in Dorset
Developing Friendships
Starting school, meeting lots of new people and feeling pressure to make friends can be stressful. Here’s some great tips to help your child to develop friendships, from that very first conversation to making up when friendships wobble.
Free School Meals
Free school meals are available to children whose parents or carers receive financial support. With the coronavirus pandemic having a huge effect on employment, it is expected that more families will be eligible to claim.
Apply now for your child’s 2021 school place
Is your child due to start or move to a new school in September 2021? You can now apply for their school place!
If your child is due to start secondary or upper school in September 2021, you must apply by 31 October 2020. Don’t miss the deadline!
If your child is starting school for the first time, or starting Junior or Middle school in September 2021 you will need to apply by 15 January 2021.
School visits and open days may be different right now as schools are limiting visitors. You can contact schools directly to find out what they’re able to offer.
Apply for your child’s school place
How has COVID-19 impacted your family?
Does your child have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND)? We’re asking families who have a child or young person with SEND to complete a survey about the impact of the pandemic.
The results will help the government, Dorset Council and the Dorset Local Area understand what has worked well, what the challenges have been for families and what lessons could be learned.
Save money with our disposable nappies scheme
Did you know one baby can go through around 6,000 disposable nappies before they’re potty trained? Using reusable nappies is cheaper, better for the environment and you can save even more with our reusable nappy scheme!
Find out about our reusable nappy scheme