'parental contribution'

[Anon7722930]

So I've just received the welcome pack for my child for the primary school she's starting in September (reception) and there is a 'parental contribution' of nearly £2,000 a year per child! I've never even heard of this for a supposed free state school!
Is this a normal thing? We live in the north west

Have you queried it yet OP?

I'm still certain this has to be a hilariously unfortunate typo or misunderstanding. It absolutely cannot be real.

It is real unfortunately. It's a faith school so it's for security and religious lessons amongst other things that every school also has to pay for

Shocking that any school should need security.

I suppose it now depends on how important attending a faith school is for you. I’d be more inclined to chose a non-faith school and supplement their faith education at your place of worship.

I've heard of it as highly sought after catholic school in my area.

I would pay it but I am in a position to. I am against it in principle though as it might make already struggling families situations worse.

Depending if you are the same faith as I am (my DD attends a faith school with a voluntary contribution) then the security is 100% needed. Money is also needed towards everything else stated. You can also pay monthly. However, if you are unable to afford this, you should speak to the bursar and agree on a reduced amount.

Sounds like a typo.

It's voluntary and not enforceable.
Same as for trips. If they don't get enough money the trip may not go ahead.

C of E does not pay for religious lessons or security. It is for enrichment or for the portion of any additional build or repairs that faith schools need to pay 20% for that maintained are funded for.

Just ask the school, as some include trips in that donation and some do not.

I wish our DC's secondary would ask for money. They're running out at an alarming rate (DH is a governor so is privy to the finances). We spend hours arranging fundraising events and while they're good for school spirit and so on they raise a pittance. Anecdotally lots of local families would be willing to contribute. Even £200 per year would be a win if a significant minority signed up. Local grammars ask for at least £100 per month. The children benefit from vastly improved facilities. The fact that legally you're only supposed to ask for certain things doesn't seem to have any force.

IMO it's all in the wording. Families who are not in a position to give should not feel any pressure. Would be interesting to hear what form of words the OP's letter used. Asking for £2,000 in a welcome pack feels rather clumsy.

On the whole I would vastly prefer that our schools were properly funded and would be willing to pay more in tax in order for that to happen. Whole different conversation.

Lots of voluntary aided, faith schools ask for contributions. If it's a Jewish school, then it's 100% normal as they have security. Also it goes to Jewish studies teachers.