Parents of Year 6 children regularly inform us that their children wish to walk home, or catch the bus home, on their own. Not only are Year 6 regarded as mature enough to make such a journey, it is also ideal preparation for travelling to their secondary schools next year.

In order for this to be permitted, we have introduced a simple risk assessment that we require you to complete, with your child, so that they can be fully aware of what to do should a problem occur on their journey.  It is an exciting opportunity for them, but it does have risks and we need to take our roles in safeguarding our young people seriously.

We recommend that your child has a simple phone if they are going to walk home, and that their emergency contact and the number for the school are easily accessible, for instance, saved as favourites. Children should always know that if a problem presents itself, returning to school may be the quickest option and that they should go to the Cheviot Close entrance.

We also ask that you indicate the child’s usual route home on a map. This has proved invaluable when needed, allowing us to pinpoint any child who has not arrived home as expected.

Please complete the attached form and map and send to office@st-georges.enfield.sch.uk

Please note that your Year 6 child cannot walk home alone until the attached form and map have been completed and sent to the office email. 

Smartphone Free School & what it means for Year 6's walking home

We are pleased to announce that from September 2025, St George’s Catholic Primary School will become a Smartphone Free School. This means that pupils will no longer be allowed to bring smartphones into school. 

This change will mainly affect Year 6 pupils, especially those who walk home alone. We recognise that staying in contact with your child is important, so we encourage the use of simple mobile phones that allow calls and texts only, without internet access or apps. Tracking devices are also an option if you wish. These alternatives help maintain your child’s independence and safety while reducing the risks associated with smartphones. Please note that from September, any smartphones brought into school will be confiscated and kept safely. 

Your assistance in this is greatly appreciated.