Support for Children and Families

Hello, my name is Nicki Shokar, I am the Family Support Worker at St Sidwell’s School. I act as a point of contact for families who have any concerns about their child in relation to school, or are experiencing difficulties at home which are affecting family wellbeing.  I aim to provide emotional and practical support, advice and information to all families in our school community.   I work closely with families, school staff and, when necessary, outside agencies, to help get things back on the right track.  In times of stress, confusion, change or loss, having someone to talk to, who can offer a new perspective, may make a big difference and could stop a problem from escalating.  I listen without judgement and will do my best to help.

I work on Tuesdays/Thursdays/Fridays. If you need any advice or help on a family-related issue, or are worried about a particular situation at home or school, please get in touch.  You can contact me by email: 

Nicki.shokar@stcmat.org to arrange a private chat.

Many Thanks

Nicki ShokarFamily Support Worker 

Introducing our School Chaplain

At St Sidwell's, Veronica our school chaplain,  plays a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of our school community—children, staff, and families. While the chaplaincy is grounded in the Christian tradition, it is committed to being inclusive and welcoming to families of all faiths, as well as those with no religious affiliation.

The chaplain provides a compassionate and confidential presence in the school, offering care, guidance, and a listening ear to anyone in need. Her role is not to promote a particular set of beliefs, but rather to support the personal and emotional growth of each child and to contribute to a safe and respectful school environment.

Veronica is in school weekly on Tuesday afternoons. If you would like to make contact please feel free to get in touch through the school office.

Coffee Mornings with our Family Support Worker

☕ Friday Morning Coffee & Chat with Mrs Shoakr
Join us every Friday morning from 8:50 am in the school hall for a cup of tea or coffee and friendly conversation with our Family Support Worker, Mrs Shokar. It’s a relaxed, informal drop-in—perfect for parents, carers, and family members.

Some weeks, we also welcome professionals from external services to offer helpful insights and guidance linked to important areas such as parenting, health, SEND support, managing finances etc. Other times, it's simply a comforting space to connect, share, and support each other.

Everyone is warmly invited to come along—no need to book, just bring yourself. We hope to see you Friday morning!

Essentials Food Bank

Every Tuesday, Essential Food Bank visits local supermarkets to collect surplus, in-date food—fresh produce, bakery items, and packaged goods—that would otherwise go to waste. The dedicated volunteer then distributes these donations directly to our school aiming to support our families and school community. This weekly initiative not only helps reduce food waste but also offers a vital lifeline to those facing food insecurity, all through a compassionate and practical local effort.

For more information, please contact our Family Support Worker through the school office: sid.admin@stcmat.org