Biometrics
Pittville School uses biometric technology to register pupils so they can access our cashless catering system. Biometric information is safe, secure, easy to use and popular in many schools. An image of a fingerprint is taken and then converted into a mathematical algorithm. The image is then discarded and only the numbers remain for identification. The numbers cannot be converted back into a fingerprint image and cannot be used by any other source for identification purposes. The vast majority of pupils at Pittville School are registered on our biometric system and children enjoy using the system. Under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (sections 26 to 28), we are required to obtain the written consent of at least one parent/legal guardian of every pupil in order for us to keep the biometric data we hold for current pupils.
Providing your consent/objecting
As stated above, in order to be able to use your child’s biometric information, the written consent of at least one parent/legal guardian is required. However, consent given by one parent will be overridden if the other parent objects in writing to the use of their child’s biometric information. Similarly, if your child objects to this, we cannot collect their biometric information.
You can also object to the proposed processing of your child’s biometric information at a later stage or withdraw any consent you have previously given. This means that, if you give consent but later change your mind, you can withdraw this consent. Please note that any consent, withdrawal of consent or objection from a parent must be in writing to the Business Manager, Pittville School, Albert Road, Cheltenham GL52 3JD or alternatively to achieve@pittville.gloucs.sch.uk.
Even if you have consented, your child can object or refuse at any time to their biometric information being taken/used. Their objection does not need to be in writing. We would appreciate it if you could discuss this with your child and explain to them that they can object to this if they wish.
PIN Number
We introduced the biometric system for our cashless catering facility a number of years ago and it has proved to be very popular. A PIN number will be issued to any child for whom we do not receive consent to register on our biometric system. However, please note that PIN numbers can be lost, stolen or simply forgotten and lost or stolen PIN numbers can be fraudulently used to access an account. For these reasons biometric technology remains our preferred choice.
It is vital therefore if you wish your child to register on the biometric system that you complete the consent box on Edulink.
Department for Education’s ‘Protection of Biometric Information of Children in Schools – Advice for proprietors, governing bodies, head teachers, principals and school staff’:
http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/advice/f00218617/biometric-recognition-systems
Catering Provision
At Pittville School we have a professional catering team who prepare food on site daily, providing nutritious meals from scratch. Our daily menus are available on the school website and on the ParentPay app.
Lunch Time Options
Students are able to choose from a range of options for lunch. We have two outlets for food which are open to different year groups. The dining room serves traditional hot meals and a range of sandwiches. Our food Pod offers a more relaxed take away option of hot snacks.
Meal Deal
A Meal Deal is available to students at a cost of £3.20. Students entitled to free school meals can choose from the option available. A meal deal consists of a main course, pudding and a drink, or in the pod a hot baguette, pudding and a drink.
Breaktime
The pod outlet and dining room are open during break time for snacks and drinks.
Payment Options
Pittville is a cashless school. All parents must use our cashless system ParentPay for purchasing meals, snacks, books, revision guides and of course to pay for all school trips and events. Catering and Parent Pay FAQ’s are at the end of this document.
If you do not have access to Parent Pay please contact the school on 01242 524787 and choose the Finance option 2.
FAQs
When can I log into my ParentPay account?
Before you start at Pittville School you will be sent an activation letter with your activation login details. You will then be able to activate your account and start making payments.
What about our personal information?
ParentPay holds a very limited amount of information about you and your child solely for the purpose of administrating your account; however ParentPay does not use your personal information other than for supporting the school and they do not share or give information to any other organisations. ParentPay operates under strict Guidelines set out by the Data Protection Act 1998.
ParentPay will NEVER contact you by phone, email or mail and ask you to divulge confidential information
like passwords or card numbers.
How do I credit the account?
By use of the online ParentPay system; use the ParentPay link through our website or visit www.parentpay.com. Your login and password will allow you to make electronic payments into your child’s account.
How would my child check if they have credit on their account?
Your child can use the balance checker in the canteen to see their available funds.
I am entitled to a free school meal, how does it work?
The allowance is credited to you each day to allow you to purchase your food. If this allowance is not used that day it will not carry over to the next day. Credits for free school meals will only be available at lunch service. If additional purchases are required funds must be credited as described above.
Can anyone else use my account?
No. Your child will either use their biometrics or a unique number allocated to them when the registration process takes place.
What happens if I forget to add funds my child’s account?
Your child will be able to have one days meal deal at lunchtime. This will be debited to your child’s account and subsequently automatically deducted from your account next time you add funds.
Can I have any say in what my child eats?
The system has a blocking facility that will identify any items the child is not allowed either by choice or dietary needs. This needs to be confirmed in writing by the parent/guardian.
Can I check what my child has chosen daily?
Each time you log into your ParentPay account you can access details of your child’s food choices and our current menu and options.
Can I limit how much my child spends?
There is the facility to apply a daily spend limit for each student, if you wish to limit your child’s daily spend please contact the school on 01242 524787 and choose the Catering option 6.
