Pupil policy

SIR, - We write to clarify the facts about The Abbey Primary School's admission policy. Your article (Herts Advertiser, March 12) might otherwise be misleading for parents considering an application to the school.

Our admission policy has six categories under which children may be admitted. Only two of them specifically require regular attendance at St Alban's Abbey. It is the definition of the term 'regular' which is at issue. The Government's Code of Practice for School Admission demands that admissions policies are transparent and that criteria are fully measurable. In common with other church schools, we have now defined 'regular attendance' at any place of worship in quantifiable terms so that in those categories where regular attendance at Abbey services is required it is clear what that entails.

Nothing else has changed. We still give priority to 'looked after children' and siblings. As happens now, children who live in the geographical parish of the Abbey but who do not attend the Abbey may still be admitted. Indeed, as at many church schools, such children often form a significant percentage of our intake and we welcome and cherish the diversity that this brings to the school community.

The full admission policy is available on request and prospective parents are welcome to attend one of the regular tours of the school. Full details are available from the headteacher.

SARAH COWPER,

Chair of Governors, The Abbey School.