Family Support and Attendance

Family and Attendance Support Adviser

Hi, I would like to introduce myself, my name is Audra Maskell and I am the Family and Attendance Support Adviser and also the Early Birds Breakfast Club Manager for St John’s School.

Many parents and carers, regardless of background, feel that there are times in their lives when they need advice and support.  Parents are best placed to make choices for their children but all parents benefit from access to high quality information and advice to help them make the best possible decisions.

My role is to provide pastoral support to parents/carers; I can help with any issues that you may have in relation to supporting your children, both at home and in school. I work to encourage parental involvement within school, signpost to external agencies (where appropriate) and support children in school.

Should you have a personal concern or school related issue, then I am here to offer support. I have access to a number of agencies who may be able to provide assistance to you and your family.

I liaise with all school staff where necessary and appropriate, always in the best interests of the children and their families. I work impartially and confidentially in a non-judgemental manner, providing an understanding ‘listening ear’ if you ever need advice or support.

I am a contact for parents and families who are experiencing difficulties. Some of these might include issues around child or parental anxiety, domestic abuse, housing, parental separation, school attendance and health for example. I can also provide advice on counselling.

I am available to provide a listening ear to families and can mediate between parents who have separated and find communication difficult. I aim to promote the self-esteem of parents, in turn to enable them to respond to their family needs by communicating openly with one another and to provide good parenting.

Finally, as a mum myself, I never forget how precious your children are and it is my aim to build strong relationships with you so every child is happy, thriving and fulfilling their potential.

So if you need a chat please feel free to contact me to arrange this or if you see me wandering around please come up and say hello.

I am available from Monday to Friday from 8.30am until 4.00pm (term time only).

Out of these hours you can leave a message and I will endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible.

My school mobile: 07506320020.

Email: a.maskell@st-johns.kent.sch.uk

You can also leave a message on my answer machine by dialling the school number 01892 678980 and entering my extension number 213.

Contact the school office 01892 678980.