Lower School Handbook by Downe House School

LOWER SCHOOL HANDBOOK 2023 - 2024 REMOVE - LOWER FOURTH

LOWER SCHOOL HANDBOOK 2023-2024 REMOVE - LOWER FOURTH

Contents Welcome from the Headmistress

Statement of Boarding Aims and Practice

Partnership with Parents

Assistant Head (Lower School)

Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Deputy Head (Academic)

House Profiles Darwin House

Hermitage House

Hill House

Sauveterre

Preparing for Boarding School

Life at Downe House

Keeping in touch

General health

Being a day girl

Where can I go for help and advice?

What happens if something goes wrong?

Exeats

Travel

Useful information

Pocket money/allowances and personal documents

Homesickness – how to cope

Things to bring

Academic progress

Wakefield Award

School Uniform

Additional Information School rules

Internet and social networking

Rewards and sanctions

Frequently asked questions

Supplementary information

Index

Welcome to Downe House The start of your daughter’s life at Downe House marks the beginning of our partnership. The staff and I would like to welcome you as a family to Downe House. We believe that we offer a happy, caring yet stimulating environment which complements your daughter’s home life. It is a privilege for us to begin to build this valuable relationship with you, which will provide a secure and structured framework in which your daughter’s personality can grow to meet her full potential.

Mrs Emma McKendrick Headmistress

Statement of Boarding Aims and Practice Downe House, established in 1907, is a full boarding School, which aims to provide an excellent holistic education for boarders and day pupils within a relaxed but structured House framework. The School aims to enable girls to develop academically, socially, spiritually and emotionally in a homely and friendly environment, where mutual trust and respect between pupils and staff are the fundamental guiding principles on which the community was established over one hundred years ago and on which it continues to flourish. Our partnership with our parents is also a vital strand to ensuring our pupils are well supported and this commitment can be seen through our comprehensive ‘Parenting and Educating in Partnership’ Programme. At Downe House the individual is highly valued within the House and the whole School community. All pupils, irrespective of background, race, religion or culture, are encouraged to live in harmony with one another and, by making the most of a range of different opportunities available to them during their journey through the Lower School, the Upper School and the Sixth Form Houses, girls are encouraged to develop the necessary confidence to meet the demands of adulthood and a rapidly changing world. One Sixth Form leaver eloquently summed up the unique Downe House experience by saying, ‘I left Downe House with the feeling there was nothing I couldn’t achieve.’

Our Partnership with Parents

At Downe House, we pride ourselves on the quality of our pastoral care and, irrespective of whether your daughter is a boarder or a day girl, our aim is to support her in every aspect of her life. We aim to help her to develop academically, socially, spiritually and emotionally and to do our best to ensure that she leaves Downe House not only with the academic qualifications that will allow her to access higher education, if that is what she wants, but also with a well-established work ethic and a core set of values that will allow her to flourish in today’s rapidly changing world. However, it is important to remember that we will not be working in isolation but in partnership with you as parents. Our Parenting and Educating in Partnership Programme falls into three strands. The first is the formal feedback you will receive from me about your daughter's progress. We will keep you informed regularly both in a formal way via reports and informally by email and telephone; however, communication from your end too is crucial. We are very aware that you know your daughter best and therefore please do share with us any information, no matter how trivial, that will help us to support her from our end. Please do not ask a member of staff to keep a piece of information to themselves, as this creates an impasse and does not allow us to move forward. No matter how sensitive or perhaps even critical of us your information is, rest assured it will be treated confidentially and professionally, and will not rebound adversely on your daughter. No institution is perfect and sometimes mistakes or misunderstandings do occur, but if we work together, even the knottiest problem can be resolved! The second is the opportunities we provide for social contact. These will include family lunches at School, drinks receptions in London, Founder's Weekend, House events and much more. We value this informal contact highly too. We are aware of how challenging it is to bring up young girls in today’s world and we want to do as much as possible to support you, as well as your daughter, through a series of talks on subjects such as internet safety, drugs, and sex and relationships. These take place at regular intervals throughout the year. The normal pattern is for the girls to have a talk from a guest speaker, followed by a similar talk for parents. We try to arrange these to coincide with exeats, so that you can then close the circle by having a discussion with your daughter over the weekend. Many parents have found these talks really useful and we hope you will too. As well as the talks offered on site, we will continue to host virtual talks, giving our parents greater flexibility. Finally, the ways your daughter will be supported to fulfil her academic potential are outlined in the section on academic progress, and here too, we need to work in partnership. We know how much you look forward to spending time with your daughter in the holidays but it is important that she is also encouraged to do some work, especially if she is coming back to examinations the following week. We will always try to keep you informed of what work your daughter has to do but we need you to make sure she does it!

Assistant Head (Lower School) I joined the Downe House team as Assistant Head, Lower School in September 2022 and have loved my first year here. I graduated from the University of St. Andrews in 2008, with a degree in English Literature and German. After completing my PGCE, I began my teaching career at a co-educational boarding school in Cambridge, teaching German and French, and working as Assistant Housemistress in a girls’ boarding house. Lured by the lights of the big city, I then moved to London to set up the German department in an independent day school, and quickly found myself transitioning back over to pastoral care by taking on the role of Head of Lower School. I am delighted to have returned to a boarding environment and thoroughly enjoy working with my experienced Lower School team. I oversee your daughter’s academic progress and pastoral care, and I look forward to working closely with you to ensure she has a smooth and happy transition into life at Downe House. My experience working in a boarding school means that I understand just how important providing that safe, structured and caring home from home environment is.

Ms Kate Eaves Assistant Head (Lower School)

Mrs Genevieve Ford - Deputy Head (Pastoral) I joined Downe House as Housemistress of Ancren Gate South (AGS) in January 2004, having previously been teaching at a maintained school in London. I took up the position of Head of Upper School in September 2011 and then Deputy Head (Pastoral) in September 2015. In addition to my boarding role, I teach Religious Studies throughout the School. I am also the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Downe House. Life in a full boarding school is always busy and every day is different. The pressure on girls in today’s world is considerable and it can be a tricky time emotionally. I believe that our girls are in need of strong leadership, high expectations and consistency. Each individual girl should have the opportunity to realise her potential. Strong pastoral care is important in order to enable each girl to flourish and to be happy. Having been a boarder myself at Queenswood and then at Stowe, I fully empathise with the girls and understand their needs within the boarding environment. The boarding house is a home away from home! Family life is very important to me and that includes all the girls at School. My role is a residential one and I live within walking distance of School with my husband, Ray, and our children, Gabriella and Alexander. Ella is a boarder at Downe and Alex starts boarding at Sherborne School in September. I graduated from Bristol University with an honours degree in Religious Studies and Theology and completed my PGCE at the Institute of Education in London. My interests include travelling, playing polo and sailing through the air on the flying trapeze! Having grown up in Malaysia and with Ray coming from Australia, we often head for sunnier climes during the holidays and never pass up an opportunity to explore a new country. We have taken Downe House girls to India, China, Malaysia and Myanmar, which have been wonderful experiences. I am absolutely committed to all the girls at Downe House and very much see my role as a way of life rather than a job; I feel privileged to be involved in the pastoral, academic and social development of each individual pupil.

Mrs Genevieve Ford Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Mr Hugh Grant - Deputy Head (Academic) I am joining Downe House this year, so I will be entering my Downe House journey at the same time as your daughter. Before joining Downe, I have taught Biology in Dubai, South Korea and at Tonbridge School. My subject is Biology, which matches my degree, but I have taught all the Sciences in the past. As Deputy Head (Academic) I will be working closely with the Heads of Department to ensure that every individual Downe House pupil finds the academic life at the school to be interesting and vibrant, inspiring our pupils to accept the challenges in front of them, safe in the knowledge that they have a well-developed support network at their disposal. Together we will find and celebrate your daughters strengths, as well as discover and work on the areas we need to develop. It is important that the curriculum at Downe is flexible enough to facilitate the individual journeys our students are on. I am excited at the prospect of being part of the school community. I graduated from New College, Oxford and went on to complete my PGCE at Homerton College, Cambridge. My interests include travelling, playing Saxophone and history, I am doing my best to support my wife, Jenny, in her PhD in Polish military history. My family also includes my children, Phoebe and Zoë, our greyhound Lilly and Loki the ball python. I am very much looking forward to learning all about Downe House and its students in the new academic year.

Mr Hugh Grant Deputy Head (Academic)

House Profiles

Darwin House Darwin is only a short walk from the main School surrounded by woodland and offers a feeling of going home at the end of the day, although it is near enough for girls to pop back in their breaks. The large garden and courtyard offer a wonderful space for outdoor play, barbeques, games and general get-togethers. There are 12 bedrooms of varying shapes and sizes, sleeping two, three or four girls. The large common room is our social centre for parties, movies and activities and is where we meet for House meetings every day. All girls are encouraged to participate in the running and organisation of the House and the House committee meets regularly. At the weekend, there is more time for relaxing and for House activities as well as outings and trips to local attractions. Girls will often be found in the common room and kitchen, taking part in arts, crafts and baking activities, or dressing up with our exciting and inspirational collection of garments which continues to delight generations of girls!

Mrs Sophie Hughes HOUSEMISTRESS This year marks my fourth academic year as Housemistress of Darwin House. I studied Sports and Exercise Science at University before completing my teacher training. Here at Downe I teach PE and Games, having previously taught PE, Games and academic PE whilst living in Surrey. I live in Darwin with my husband Mike, young daughters Elodie and Orla and family dog, Milo. We enjoy a wide variety of sports, outdoor activities and taking Milo for walks in the countryside. In addition, I am a keen baker and enjoy reading, music and creative projects; having been a music scholar whilst at school. Growing up in a boarding school and having been a boarder myself, I believe that your school years are a truly special time and I look forward to supporting your daughter in every aspect of their life at Downe House. The Darwin team and I will work hard to ensure that every member of the house is encouraged to express themselves without trepidation, whilst taking advantage of the huge variety of opportunities that Downe House offers. Darwin feels very much home to my family and I hope that your family will feel the same way once you and your daughter arrive.

Ms Alyson Scott-Kerley ASSISTANT HOUSEMISTRESS I have been working at Downe House since 2009, when I joined as a part time pastoral assistant. I very quickly realised that working at Downe was going to be a real pleasure for me and was thrilled to be appointed as the Assistant Housemistress of Darwin for September 2014. I thoroughly enjoy my role, and my involvement within the school as part of the residential team. I live here on site with my black lab Flossie, who enjoys boarding life too! Being a keen walker, and a lover of the outdoors living in such beautiful leafy surroundings is perfect for me. I very much look forward to welcoming our new girls into Darwin in September, and as always, I know that there will be lots of fun times ahead!

“While I love every aspect of life in Darwin, the most notable thing is the fun evening activities.” ZARA, 12

Hermitage House Hermitage House is situated close to Hill and Darwin which together make up the three Lower School boarding houses for girls in Remove and LIV. Our aim is to provide the best possible environment in which the girls can negotiate challenges and set down deep roots for their time at Downe House and beyond. Hermitage provides ten spacious four-person dorms, a large common room where we hold our daily House meetings, run evening activities and enjoy movie nights. We have a prep room, where the girls can go to complete work or email home and a music room to practice their instruments in their free time. A busy communal area is our kitchen where the girls have break, tea and evening snacks. A favourite Hermitage tradition is our Sunday House breakfast where the girls come down in their pyjamas to enjoy warm croissants, cereals and toast in a very relaxed atmosphere. In the evenings, the girls can choose to attend a number of co-curricular activities and there are events going on in House such as yoga and cardio club as part of our wellbeing programme. Our girls enjoy a number of roles of responsibility within the House and the social reps often organise fun events on returning to School after exeat weekend. These have included making pizza for supper, talent competitions, dorm dances and of course, fashion shows. Weekends in Hermitage can involve many fun and exciting opportunities for girls to socialise across the year groups or just rest and relax amongst friends. Many girls will be involved in sports matches on a Saturday afternoon or they can participate in craft activities or baking in House. In the warmer months we often have barbeques on the lawn and the girls can enjoy the sunshine whilst playing swingball and badminton with friends. On Sundays, there are organised trips for the year group to local attractions and events, making each day at Downe one to remember.

Mrs Kim Collingwood HOUSEMISTRESS I grew up in Rutland before going to Loughborough University of Technology to study Physical Education, Sports Science and Recreation Management. Whilst at university, I participated in many different sports and I also competed successfully as an amateur jockey, point-to-point steeplechasing around the country at weekends. After graduating, I completed my PGCE at Homerton College, Cambridge, before taking my first Assistant Housemistress and teaching post in Bristol. Before joining Downe House, I taught at a girls’ boarding school in Ascot. I performed many different roles including Assistant Housemistress, Duke of Edinburgh Leader and Head of Year in a number of key stages. I believe an important aspect of a successful House lies in setting standards and developing a positive ethos where each individual feels valued, safe and secure. As Housemistress of Hermitage I work hard to ensure each girl in my care enjoys all the opportunities available to her, whilst being fully supported by our dedicated team. I live with my husband Mark and our two children Jake and Skye, aged thirteen and ten.

Miss Siobhan Clare ASSISTANT HOUSEMISTRESS This will be my first year as Assistant Housemistress of Hermitage and I am very excited to get to know all the girls and their families! Having worked in girls' boarding, as a Resident Tutor, I understand the challenges that boarding presents and the importance of balance across school life. Although I am new to Hermitage, I have many tricks up my sleeve to help the girls settle into life at Downe House and make the most of their future adventures.

“With all the warmth, friends and activities, Hermitage is one big happy family”

Having grown up in Manchester, I then moved to Durham University where I studied Geography before completing a Masters in Risk. While at Durham, I competed in both Gymnastics and Trampolining and captained the Trampolining team for two years alongside taking up a variety of new sports. I am also a Gymnastics coach and have supported recreational and school Gymnastics programmes since 2015. I love being active, reading and spending time with friends and hope to share these things with the girls while nurturing their passions and encouraging them to embrace new and exciting challenges.

MIA, AGE 12

Hill House Hill House is one of three Lower School Boarding Houses at Downe House for girls in Remove and Lower IV. We are exceptionally lucky to be in a new, purpose-built house which opened in 2015. The House has been planned meticulously and has a beautiful light and spacious common room, a large kitchen, a work room equipped with networked PCs, a music practice room and comfortable dorms with ample storage. But a boarding house is so much more than a building and the girls often say how it really feels like they are coming home at the end of the day. The House Study is always a hub of activity in the early evening and on top of organised activities, you will often find girls playing cards or trying out the latest dance routines. We celebrate birthdays and have parties organised by our social reps, hot chocolate in the evening and popcorn on Movie Night! Weekends are busy and fun with a range of activities planned in House or out with the rest of the year group. The supportive and friendly Housestaff encourage the girls in all that they do and communicate regularly with parents to ensure the best possible outcomes for the girls. We do all that we can to make sure that girls settle quickly and happily in Hill and that their years here prepare them to be resilient, happy young adults before they move on through the School.

Miss Anna Lister HOUSEMISTRESS Prior to moving to Downe House I worked as a Housemistress and Head of Art at Rugby School Thailand, and prior to that I worked as a Deputy Housemistress at Ampleforth College. The majority of my childhood was spent amidst the organised chaos of a large boarding house where my father was Housemaster. Growing up behind the scenes provided me with an early insight into the hard work and dedication that goes into a house parent position. Working in loco parentis is an enormous privilege and one that I take on with great pride. Having attended boarding school myself, I understand the enormity of joining a boarding school for the first time, and I work hard to ensure that every girl in my house feels comfortable, secure and able to be themselves – a true home away from home. I am an artist at heart, and I love to paint and draw in my free time. I have a particular interest in neurodiversity and mental health, and am currently working on the completion of an MSc in Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Wellbeing. I am also a great lover of the outdoors and enjoy spending time at my family home in the Scottish Highlands during the school holidays. I live in Hill with my son, Oscar (11) and our friendly golden retriever, Milo.

Mrs Nicola Patrick ASSISTANT HOUSEMISTRESS

“I love being in Hill so much – sometimes it feels like the holidays are too long!”

Born into the boarding house of a local prep school where my parents were House Parents for over 25 years, I know the joys that being part of a boarding community can bring young people as they grow up. I arrived at Downe House in 2016 having spent the three previous years as Assistant Director of Studies and Head of Geography at Cumnor House Prep School in Sussex. Prior to that, I was at Bloxham School in Oxfordshire for seven years where I taught Geography to A Level and was an Assistant Housemistress in a senior girls’ boarding house. Keen for all things geographical, I followed my BSc in Geography at Durham with a PGCE from Cambridge and a Masters in Geography Education from UCL. I love the outdoors and like to use the excuse of taking holidays to ‘broaden my geographical knowledge’! I live in Hill with my husband, our two young children and our dog, Holly.

HARRYO, AGE 11

Sauveterre A Term in France This is a unique opportunity to experience life immersed in the French culture and language at the 18th Century Château de Sauveterre with other members of their year group and a dedicated team of staff – there’s no better way to develop independence, confidence and lifelong memories. All members of the LIV take part in this great adventure, which becomes a highlight of their education at Downe House. The Château is not only a beautiful building set on an extensive site, with its own outdoor sports facilities, but it also has the benefit of being within forty-five minutes of Toulouse airport and the city itself, and one and a half hours away from the Pyrenees. The term in France provides each girl with the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture. Teaching and learning are of the utmost importance, and girls inevitably make enormous progress in French. They can also expect to be challenged intellectually and personally daily, becoming more independent and confident. The curriculum at Downe House Sauveterre is enriched by the fabulous learning opportunities on its doorstep, set in an area of France renowned for its art, history and geography. Cookery and Textiles feature in the curriculum, together with Music, Drama and Art. All lessons, except Mathematics, are delivered in French as far as is practical. By the end of the term, it is remarkable how much progress the girls will have made. Classroom-based learning is supported by an extensive and stimulating programme of sorties to nearby villages, markets, local landmarks, and historical and cultural places of interest. Girls get involved with community-based projects at local schools and charities, which facilitate authentic interactions with young people of a similar age and the local population. For further information on the term in Sauveterre, please click the link to read our booklet ‘A Term in France’ For Parents whose daughters have a Child Student Visa In preparation for your daughter going to Downe House France for a term, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you about visa requirements. If your daughter has a Child Student Visa to enter the UK to study, you will need an appropriate additional visa to enter France. Applications should be made directly to the French Consulate in your home country by the parent or legal guardian. The amount of information requested from parents will vary from embassy to embassy but Downe House will provide a letter confirming your daughter’s attendance and term dates upon request. Visa applications can be made up to three months in advance and an early application is advisable. France is a member of the Schengen area. If your daughter travels on a US Passport, we have been advised that she does not require an additional visa for her term in France. There are also other country exceptions and please refer to the French consulate for further information. All information is accurate at the time of writing, and we strongly advise that your daughter’s passport is up to date and valid for six months beyond the end of her term in France. Please do not hesitate to contact Admissions for any further advice and guidance: registrar@downehouse.net

Mrs Lauren Ponchant HEAD OF SAUVETERRE My love for all things French was first ignited by my very exuberant and equally passionate Senior School French teacher. I soon realised that teaching was the career for me and since then, it has been my aim to pass on the joy of language learning to all my pupils. I have been privileged to work in both boarding and day schools in my career and to hold a variety of positions from classroom teacher to Head of Languages, Assistant Head and latterly Deputy Head. I joined Downe House as Head of Sauveterre in 2022 with my husband, Christophe and two daughters, Alycia and Zoë. Together with an experienced and well-established team, we look forward to nurturing your daughter’s cultural curiosity, French linguistic ability, and wellbeing while she is in our care in France.

Mr Neil Dix-Pincott HEAD OF BOARDING AND PASTORAL CARE I am thrilled to be joining the team at Sauveterre as Head of Boarding & Pastoral Care. I have an in-depth knowledge of the local culture, history, and geography as the château is in a part of the world I fell in love with as an undergraduate at the Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour. My wife Brigid and I recently moved to the area after a long spell as a Languages teacher and Housemaster at a boarding school in Cambridge. Although I have a deep-seated passion for the French language and culture, and enjoy teaching it to all ages, I have always found my roles in pastoral care to be hugely rewarding. I look forward to working with Lauren to ensure the girls continue to receive the first-class pastoral care at Downe House during their term in France, so that they can make the most of this unique opportunity in a warm and nurturing environment.

“Sauveterre was a terrific experience and has improved my French more than I could have hoped for.” COSMIA, LOWER FOURTH

Preparing for Boarding School

LIFE AT DOWNE HOUSE

timetable so that preparations and music lessons, for example, may be fitted in appropriately. Girls who are new to the LIV have a separate induction programme in Sauveterre and will be fully supported as they integrate into the School community.

The Downe House Podcast Before you start your Downe House journey we have a series of podcasts available for you and your daughter to listen to. We hope that these will give you a flavour of life here at Downe before you arrive. Listen here

The first few weeks During the first few weeks of the Michaelmas term, the girls will be very busy and may get quite tired. The Housestaff will manage the girls’ timetables to prevent the girls from overexerting themselves, but you may find that on the first Short Exeat and at the Long Exeat, the girls will want simply just to rest at home and spend time with their families. Whilst it is tempting to want to celebrate having your daughter at home with you with a late night or busy social diary, the girls will benefit most from time with you in the cosy surroundings of home.

Who will care for my daughter? Your daughter’s Housemistress has the primary responsibility for the overall care, welfare and development of your daughter. She will want to develop a close working relationship with you from the start in order to support your daughter through the first important weeks at Downe House and beyond. How can I help the School by preparing my daughter for her first experience of boarding? It is important that your daughter begins to establish an independent routine before she leaves home for the first time. It will help her considerably if she is at ease with washing her hair herself, folding her clothes, making her bed and changing her duvet cover, for example. If she has the opportunity to spend a night or two away during the holidays, this may help too.

Meals It will also help if your daughter is used to eating meals regularly at set times and not ‘grazing’. The meals at Downe House are excellent and there is huge variety. Personal hygiene The Housestaff will keep an eye on the girls to ensure that they keep fresh and maintain personal hygiene but please encourage your daughter to get into the habit of showering or bathing regularly. Nits! Please ensure that your daughter is in the habit of checking for nits each week using a nit comb and conditioner she will be asked by Housestaff if she has done this. The Palmer Centre (our Health Centre) will be on hand to offer advice and support.

Girls will be joining us at a time when the onset of puberty is imminent. This can be both perplexing and unsettling for them. Please be assured that staff are experienced in dealing with these issues and will care for your daughter. It is very helpful if you have discussed the changes she can expect in her body with her too. Try to build her confidence in her ability to look after herself and encourage her to ask for the help of others if she has any concerns at all – this will be readily given! Your confidence in her and in us will be a great support to her.

Peer support/Buddies The Remove are assigned a buddy in LV who will mentor them throughout their first year. They will meet initially during induction week, and then again at various organised events throughout the year such as a late September BBQ, Buddy Teas, board games and hot chocolate nights and LV breakfasts. We also encourage them to seek each other out more informally throughout the year too. This provides a real opportunity for our younger pupils to build strong connections with pupils in other year groups and provides them with another source of information and support. We are also fortunate to have a fantastic team of Seniors who support the Lower School in many ways, including spending time with the girls some mornings and evenings each week, and heading up the Lower School Council.

Settling in Day Before the Michaelmas term starts, we hold a Settling In Day for new Remove (Day girls and Boarders). It is an ideal opportunity for parents to spend time in the Boarding House helping the girls to unpack, meet the Housestaff and the other girls and to settle in before your daughter returns for the start of term. Girls and families have told us it has been hugely valuable as a way of calming any nerves before the new term. We encourage you to bring as much of your daughter’s luggage as possible on this day so that she arrives with just her personal essentials in a small bag for the start of term. Further details are sent well before the day. You will be asked to come to the main lobby of the House where there will be a board with your daughter’s dormitory listed and someone will be on hand to help you find it. Please use suitcases or large zipped laundry bags rather than trunks, which are awkward to manoeuvre up and down the stairs. You will be asked to take your daughters cases and bags home after they have been unpacked. The girls will move dormitories each term throughout their time at Downe. Girls may however, store their luggage in the House at the end of the Michaelmas and Lent term but not in the Summer term. Overseas girls may store their luggage over the summer holiday.

KEEPING IN TOUCH How Downe House will keep in touch The Parent Hub is our secure website and allows you exclusive access to your daughter’s profile. You are able to view Reports, sign her up for co-curricular activities, and receive SMS text messages for sports fixture cancellations; these are just a few examples of the information available. You will be sent your personal login details for the Parent Hub shortly before your daughter joins Downe. There is also a weekly newsletter published by each House. Lower School has a closed Facebook Group per House and we post reguarly on Twitter and Instagram. We also have a sports management system (SOCS) for the management of all our matches, tournaments and sports fixtures. The website is http://sports.downehouse.net. The password is reset each term and will be sent out to parents.

Day Girls are invited to also set up their dormitory area. The First Day On the first day of term, girls should arrive in mufti (own clothes) not School Uniform. Day Girls will be invited to board for the first two nights of term to help them settle in and get to know everyone.

Keeping in touch with my daughter’s Housemistress Your daughter’s Housemistress will be in touch with you during the first weeks to reassure you about how well she is settling in. She will also be in touch if there are any real areas of concern. If you do not hear anything immediately, please do not worry. It is because all is going well and your daughter’s Housemistress is spending time getting to know her. Please feel able to share any concern that you may have by telephone or email with her Housemistress so that minor worries may be dealt with quickly. During the evenings, the Housemistress may not answer the

What support will my daughter get during her first term? The staff in all Lower School Houses are dedicated to working with you to ensure that your daughter receives the best possible support and care. Do not hesitate to talk to any of us at any time. The first full day at School, for Remove, is spent on an induction programme and in lessons. The induction process continues through the first week. Girls meet their Academic Tutor and other staff. They are given guidance with the organisation of their 19

GENERAL HEALTH

phone when she is with the girls. Please do leave a message and she will return your call.

What happens if my daughter needs Health care? The House team is likely to be the first port of call for minor injuries and ailments. The Palmer Centre, our health centre, is staffed 24 hours a day by qualified nurses in order to offer the very best in care and specialist support. You will always be informed if your daughter is admitted to the Palmer Centre overnight.

How can my daughter contact me? We hope that the art of letter writing is alive and well and that in spite of her busy schedule, she will write you a letter as well as email you! It is easy sometimes for the girls to become quite dependent on emails and they will sometimes check their messages numerous times each day. We will discourage this, not least because we want the girls to be talking to their friends rather than sitting over a computer screen. Don’t forget the immediacy of email messages! The girls will express how they are feeling at that moment, but it doesn’t mean that this is how she will be feeling five minutes later. If you have any worries, please contact your daughter’s Housemistress. In general telephone calls at bedtime are best avoided until your daughter has firmly settled in and can share her experiences with you confidently. Once settled in, she may call home each night if she wishes to.

Your daughter will be registered with the School Doctor, Dr Natalie Colborne, at the Burdwood Surgery, Thatcham, during her time at Downe House. Regular surgeries are held in the Palmer Centre by the two School doctors (one is female) four times each week. If you have any queries about your daughter’s health, you can ring the Palmer Centre at any time. The School can arrange for emergency private orthodontic treatment or emergency dental treatment to be carried out locally, in consultation with parents when possible. Please try to ensure that routine visits to the dentist take place during the holidays. A specialist firm called Titan comes into School to take impressions for individual mouthguards, which are strongly recommended and are compulsory for School matches in some sports. Forms are available on the Parent Hub.

Do I need to let the School know if I am away during term time? Yes. Please leave contact details with your daughter’s Housemistress in case of an emergency, or please give us the name of someone whom you would like us to contact in the UK in your place, should we not be able to contact you. Is my daughter allowed a mobile phone? Yes. Please refer to Guidelines on the Use of Mobile Phones on page 39.

If your daughter wears glasses, it is essential that they should have unbreakable lenses if they are to be worn for games. She should always have a spare pair at School. Goggles for lacrosse are compulsory and goggles for squash are strongly recommended.

What devices can my daughter bring? Smartphones are welcome but not essential. Please also see page 24 for details of the range of devices permitted.

Note: If your daughter is unwell during the holidays or when she is at home on exeat, please always let the Palmer Centre know and inform her Housemistress or a member of the House Team on her return, so that they can respond appropriately.

Downe House operates a compulsory Microsoft Surface Programme, this is coordinated through Insight UK and information regarding the programme can be found on the Parent Hub. The programme is open for all parents to take advantage of the competitive pricing which we have been able to secure. This also caters for those parents who are imminently looking to purchase a device for their daughter to use. An Office 365 account will also be provided to all pupils at no additional cost to you. Please do not hesitate to contact the IT Support department should you have any questions regarding IT and its usage at Downe House. There is also advice available on the Parent Hub about making your daughter’s mobile safe by putting in appropriate parental controls. This is something that we consider essential, especially pre-GCSE. Girls will continue to have their devices collected in at night time in Remove and up to UIV and the early part of UV. Facilities will be in place for storage and overnight charging.

Each House has a medical cupboard, so there is no need for your daughter to bring any paracetamol with her. Any medication she does need to bring back (except inhalers, but including vitamins and cough sweets) must be handed in to the Housestaff or health centre staff immediately. All items should be labelled and should clearly show your daughter’s name. An accompanying form stating the dose, frequency and permission for Housestaff to administer the medication is also required. If the packaging is in a foreign language, parents should provide a translation for the Housestaff or health centre staff. What should I do if my daughter is on regular medication? Always let the Palmer Centre and Housestaff know if your daughter is on regular medication so that they can ensure it is administered correctly.

How can I contact my daughter? Your daughter will have her own email address and will be allowed to use her mobile as detailed above. The girls will also have access to a telephone in the case of an emergency.

Will my daughter be encouraged to eat a healthy, balanced diet? There is a wide variety of freshly cooked food available at breakfast, lunch and supper. A salad bar is also available at lunch and supper. All meals are taken in the Main Dining Room and there is always a staff presence. Refreshments are also provided at break and teatime.

Anxious phone calls and emails Do encourage your daughter to come to us first with a worry. Parents can do little about it and we are on the spot. The girls bond better if they support each other and we encourage them to discuss solutions rather than expect parents to intervene on their behalf. Try not to worry about the ‘best friend’ syndrome. We are here to support parents and girls and we never mind a phone call, no matter how silly you might think it is!

The Palmer Centre is always happy to discuss nutrition with any girl to ensure they are eating a healthy and balanced diet. Note: If your daughter is allergic to certain foods, please discuss this with the health centre staff and with the Housestaff so that alternative arrangements may be made. Any food produced by the Catering department that may contain nuts is always clearly marked.

Urgent messages for my daughter If you are unable to get hold of your daughter, please phone the House on the appropriate number and leave a message (for the Housemistress or the Assistant). Answerphones are checked as often as possible during the day. In the event of an emergency, please contact the main School number (01635 200286) when you will be told how to contact the appropriate person to deal with your query or message. The Palmer (Health) Centre’s number is manned 24 hours a day: 01635 204657. There is also an emergency line: 01635 200244. However this must be reserved for emergencies only. Please note this line is not manned during exeats.

Girls should not return to School with chocolate spreads unless they are totally nut free (spreads which ‘may contain a trace of nuts’ are not acceptable). They should not bring in cereals/ spreads or tuck containing nuts.

BEING A DAY GIRL

Key Dates and Information Booklet is available online to keep you updated with School events.

The First Day

If my daughter is unwell, what will happen? The Palmer Centre staff will contact you. You will have the option to collect your daughter if necessary during the day or after School.

On her first day, your daughter is very welcome to arrive with the other girls to drop off any personal belongings and to meet the other girls. She should be dressed in mufti. We hope day girls will stay to supper in the Main Dining Room at 6pm. If she would like to do this, please contact the Housestaff. Day Girls will be invited to board for the first two nights of term to help them settle in and get to know everyone.

Please let the Palmer Centre staff know if your daughter has been unwell. This helps us to care for her better. If she is on any medication, please advise the Palmer Centre staff so that this can be administered.

From then on your daughter should register in her House by 7.30am. She will also need to register at lunchtime at Reception.

Written or emailed permission to the Housemistress must be given for any medication to be administered in House. This

What should she bring with her? On her second day she should be in School uniform (winter) and will need to bring her book bag, all her pens and pencils and any PE kit she already has.

includes vitamins, herbal medicines or any other non-prescription medication. What do I do if I have any questions? Please do contact the School. Your daughter’s Housemistress, the Assistant Head (Lower School) or her Academic Tutor will be happy to help you.

The Routine

When should she arrive in the mornings and where should she go? Your daughter should arrive at 7.30am when she can join her House for the House meeting followed by breakfast in the Main Dining Room at 8am.

WHERE CAN MY DAUGHTER GO FOR HELP AND ADVICE?

What time should I normally collect her? Normally School finishes at 6pm. However, there will be events, rehearsals, practices and activities which take place every week. She is more than welcome to join the boarders for supper and go back to the house, as long as the Housemistress knows when you will collect her. Your daughter should know about the timings of rehearsals and activities but if you are in any doubt, please contact her Housemistress. She must tell her Housemistress or Assistant Housemistress when she leaves for the evening. All Lower School girls are expected to honour their House commitments at the end of a school day before going home.

The Health Centre

Morning triage: 7.45am - 8.30am Appointments: booked throughout the day Evening surgery: 6pm - 8pm After 8pm, girls should see their Housemistress and they will contact the Palmer Centre. If girls are feeling unwell or need to speak to a nurse, we will triage this in the morning and book them an appointment for some point in the day where they can be seen and given adequate time and assessment. The girls can drop in to evening surgery without an appointment. Off games permission will only be given out by The Health Centre staff during an appointment time.

Can she join in the activities after school? Your daughter is encouraged to join in activities after school. We recommend that she does not take on more than two at this stage.

Confidentiality Confidentiality in the Health Centre You can be sure that anything your daughter discusses with ANY member of the Palmer Centre – doctor or nurse – will stay confidential. Even if they are under 16 nothing will be said to anyone, including parents, Housestaff or teachers, without your daughters permission. The only reason why we might have to consider passing on confidential information without their permission would be to protect them or someone else from serious harm. We would always try to discuss this with your daughter first.

Can she join in the activities at weekends? Of course! Details are published in the Key Dates and Information booklet. If for any reason she is unable to attend an activity to which she has committed herself, please ring and let the Housemistress know. We will worry if she does not arrive. What should she do with her laundry? Your daughter should take her uniform and PE kit home to be washed. She may need some encouragement to do this!

Off Games Slips If your daughter needs to be off Games, she must attend morning surgery. If the nurse confirms that she needs to be off Games, her name will be put on a daily list given to the PE staff. Housestaff may give her an ‘Off Games’ slip for one day. Your daughter must report to the PE Office at the start of the Games lesson, even if she is off Games.

Help and Advice

To whom should she go if she is anxious about anything? Your daughter will be able to talk to her Housemistress, Academic Tutor, Assistant Head (Lower School), any member of the Palmer Centre or School staff with whom she feels at ease. Will the Housemistress still take an interest in our daughter even though she is a day girl? Most definitely! She may take a little longer to get to know your daughter but the more she is with us, the easier this becomes.

House Surgeries – See House Notice Board for times Plasters, cough linctus, Deep Heat, throat lozenges and paracetamol are all kept in House surgery cupboards and Housestaff are more than happy to supply your daughter with these when required. Please do NOT bring painkillers back to School. Any medication, apart from inhalers MUST be handed in to the Housestaff to be kept locked in the House Surgery cupboard along with a completed form giving your permission for the medication to be administered. The Housestaff will supply the form for you.

Taking Friends Out

Can my daughter invite friends out as we live quite close to the school? It is always lovely for girls to have an invitation out however, please do keep the girl’s parents and Housemistress in the loop.

Keeping Up To Date

Confidentiality in the Palmer (Health) Centre Your daughter can be sure that anything she discusses with any member of the Palmer Centre – doctor or nurse – will stay confidential. The only reason we might consider passing on

How will I know what is happening in the School e.g. when there are mufti days? There will be a weekly notice on the bulletin board in the House. A 21

confidential information without your daughter’s permission would be to protect her or someone else from serious harm. We would always try to discuss this with her first.

her choice to this meeting. 4 If at any stage she is dissatisfied with this procedure, your daughter may contact a representative at ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) on 0207 600 0100 or email info@isi.net The Representative will come and speak to her privately at School – again she may have someone with her – and will advise her about what course seems sensible.

Personal Matters We all have worries, problems and difficulties from time to time, which might affect either an individual or a group. In a boarding school, matters can normally be resolved, or be dealt with to some extent, by talking to a member of staff. Housestaff, Academic Tutors or any of the teachers will always be willing to listen. The School Doctor, the nurses in the Palmer Centre, the Deputy Headmaster, Assistant Head (Lower School) and the Headmistress are also available. Please note that the Designated Safeguarding Lead for Child Protection is the Deputy Head (Pastoral).

Guidance for parents

Downe House welcomes suggestions and comments from parents, and takes seriously complaints and concerns they may raise. A complaint will be treated as an expression of genuine dissatisfaction which needs a response. We wish to ensure that:

You or your daughter may also contact other people for advice, such as those on the list below, who are not involved in the dayto-day running of the School. Mrs Madeleine Loughlin, School Psychotherapist 07968 848079 loughlinm@downehouse.net Mrs Davinder Dhaliwal, School Counsellor dhaliwalD@downehouse.net

Parents wishing to make a complaint know how to do so.

•

We respond to complaints within a reasonable time and in a courteous and efficient way.

•

Parents realise that we listen and take complaints seriously.

•

We take action where appropriate.

How should I complain? You can talk directly to a Head of Department, the Assistant Head (Lower School), the Headmistress or another senior member of staff, write a letter, email or telephone. Be as clear as possible about what is troubling you. Please note that the Headmistress is likely to be informed of all complaints.

Mrs Cassandra Eaton, School Counsellor eatonc@downehouse.net Independent Listener - Dr Alsop 07876 758768/01491 681554 Childline 0800 1111

Any member of staff will be happy to help. It may be best to start with the person most closely concerned with the issue – for example, to raise house matters with the Housemistress, sports concerns with the Director of Sport. They may be able to sort things out quickly, with the minimum of fuss. However, you may prefer to take more serious matters to a senior member of staff, such as the Deputy Head (Pastoral) or Headmistress.

Beat - Beating Eating Disorders, Youth Helpline 0808 801 0711 daily 3pm - 10pm or email fyp@beateatingdisorder.org.uk Alateen, Confidential Helpline 0800 0086 811 For families and friends of problem drinkers. ISI - Independent Schools Inspectorate 0207 600 0100 The Children’s Commissioner 0800 528 0731/0207 783 8330

I do not want to complain as such, but there is something bothering me The School is here for you and your child, and we want to hear your views and your ideas. Contact a member of staff, as described above.

WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG? How does my daughter raise a complaint?

I am not sure whether to complain or not If, as parents, you have concerns, you are entitled to complain. If in doubt, please contact the School to discuss concerns. This will probably help you to decide if you wish to make a formal complaint.

Some problems are best dealt with through individual contact with one person, but others may need to be dealt with by several people. It is important to stress that you and your daughter may choose the people with whom you would like to speak. Also, pupils are able to use Whisper an anonymous pupil voice reporting system for them to report anything that they would like to.

What will happen next? If you raise something face-to-face or by telephone, it may be possible to resolve the matter immediately and to your satisfaction.

The School’s pastoral and counselling system should support your daughter through her time at Downe House and deal with most matters of concern. Under some circumstances she may wish to make a formal complaint in writing, especially if an informal complaint has not been satisfactorily resolved. Whether she chooses to deal with a problem alone or seek advice or follow a formal complaint procedure, is a matter for her to decide.

If you have made a complaint or suggestion in writing, we will contact you within five working days to respond to your concerns and explain how we propose to proceed. In many circumstances, the person you contact will need to discuss the matter with a colleague and consider it further before responding. You will be given a date by which time you will receive a response. If a detailed exploration of the issues is needed, a letter or report will be sent to you as quickly as possible. This will give you the outcome of your complaint. It will explain the conclusion, the reasons for it, and any action taken or proposed.

Making a Formal Complaint She may make a formal complaint by adopting the following procedure (with or without informing the person she is complaining about): 1

•

Write to her Housemistress, her Academic Tutor, the Assistant Head (Lower School) or the Headmistress. In practice, she may have discussed the matter with this person already.

What happens about confidentiality? Your complaint or concern will be treated in a confidential manner and with respect.

2 Her complaint will then be acknowledged and registered.

Knowledge of it will be limited to the Headmistress and those directly involved. In serious cases, the Chair of Governors may also need to be informed. It is the School’s policy that complaints made by parents should not rebound adversely on their children.

3 Your daughter will then be asked to talk the matter through with a member of the Leadership Team, in the first instance, as soon as possible who will then pass on the information to the Headmistress. She may invite a pupil or a member of staff of

We cannot entirely rule out the need to make third parties outside 22

the School aware of the complaint and possibly also the identity of those involved. This would only be likely to happen where, for example, a child’s safety was at risk or it became necessary to refer matters to the police. You would be fully informed.

individual and meet the needs of the girls at each stage of their teenage development. To this end, weekends are approached differently depending on the age of the girl. In the Lower School, as the girls make the transition to boarding, some for the first time, it is important to ensure that there is a good balance between home life and staying in School to build relationships. This will be managed carefully by the Housestaff to ensure the right balance is being met. This is also the case in the Upper School. In the Sixth Form, the emphasis is on each girl to manage her weekend commitments, as we prepare the girls to step towards life beyond Downe.

While information relating to specific complaints will be kept confidentially on file, we would point out that anonymous complaints may not be pursued. Staff disciplinary procedures which need to be taken as a result of complaints would be handled confidentially within the School. What if I am not satisfied with the outcome? We hope that you will feel satisfied with the outcome, or at least that your concerns have been fully and fairly considered.

Do I need to give permission for my daughter to go out at weekends? Yes. If you wish to allow your daughter to stay with a friend or relative, then you should confirm this in writing (email or written letter) with her Housemistress. It is helpful if arrangements can be communicated well before the day in question and confirmed by the Sunday prior to the relevant weekend at the latest in order to inform the Catering department of accurate numbers. Your daughter’s safety is paramount. If your daughter is going out with you, we also ask that this is confirmed in writing (email or written letter).

If you are not satisfied, the Headmistress will offer to refer the matter to the Chair of Governors. Alternatively, you may wish to write directly to the Chair, Ms Fru Hazlitt, whose address is displayed at the back of this booklet on the Supplementary Information page. The Chair will call for a full report from the Headmistress and will examine matters thoroughly before responding. This may result in a positive solution, but if it does not, the Chair will invite you to a meeting. You may wish to be supported by a friend, but legal representation would not be appropriate at this stage.

Sunday Lunch timings – If there is Matins, a girl may go out after Matins and must return by 7pm. If there is Evensong, a girl may go out after breakfast but must return in time for check-in at 5pm and Evensong at 6.30pm.

If the meeting does not bring about a resolution, the matter would be referred to the School’s Appeal Committee. It is their task to look at the issues in an impartial and confidential manner. The Committee Convener will invite you to a meeting. You will be asked if there are any papers you would like to have circulated beforehand. As with the Chair’s meeting, you will be invited to bring a friend with you.

Girls in the Lower School are recommended to stay in for at least two to three weekends each term, in addition to the Closed Weekends, to benefit from a full boarding experience. Housestaff will be on hand to guide parents and guardians about which weekends would work particularly well for their daughter to stay in but there is flexibility around this as well, as the needs of the individual is accounted for. All commitments should be honoured before an exeat or lunch is taken. New 11+ boarders should remain in School for the first two weekends to settle in.

The School acknowledges your entitlement to complain and we hope to work with you in the best interests of the children and young people in our care.

EXEATS/WEEKENDS

Weekend Activities at Downe House The main focus for our Weekend Activity Programme is to offer the girls a broad range of activities which enables them to have fun and relax whilst also offering them opportunities for personal growth and development, inter House bonding, team-building and a chance to develop leadership skills! Where appropriate, activities are split into small groups and led by the girls under close supervision of staff.

Boarding is at the heart of the experience at Downe House. We aim to provide our families with a boarding model that is well suited to the needs of a modern family who lead busy lives. Offering both flexibility and stability, boarding at Downe House ensures that the girls’ pastoral and educational needs are at the heart of all that we do. As a full boarding school, we have the luxury of time and space, which helps foster the strongest of relationships, not only with each other but with the wider community too. Creating the right balance of boarding and family time is important at Downe House.

A great deal of thought is given to strike a balance between keeping busy and providing down time. A girl in the Lower School will be offered a varied Weekend Activity Programme which could include many of the activities below. This is supplemented by in House activities such as art and crafts, cooking, dorm entertainments and garden games, as well as the Wakefield Award.

Each term includes a Long Exeat which are around seven to ten days. The Michaelmas and Lent terms include two Short Exeats and the Summer term one Short Exeat. All girls return to their parents or guardians during these times. The first and last weekend of each term is a ‘Closed Weekend’, where all girls are expected to stay in School. These weekends are when important events and activities take place. To ensure they have a chance to catch up with family and have a well-earned rest from busy boarding-school life, girls are permitted to go home on any other weekend, as long as their School commitments have been honoured. We believe that this offers our families the necessary flexibility, while ensuring that life at Downe House continues to thrive at the weekends, with a busy programme available to all.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

As a boarding school, each girl’s contribution to our community through music, drama, sport, whole school events, trips and activities is highly valued. Our unique boarding structure enables us to offer the very best specialised pastoral care for each stage of development. Our three-step boarding comprises of the Lower School, the Upper School and the Sixth Form boarding houses, which allow for our Housestaff to really tailor the care for each

• • • 23

Teambuilding afternoon. BBQ and den building. New girls’ family lunch. Aquadrome. House Drama rehearsals and production. Visit to Cadbury World. Paultons Park. Bowling. School concert. Christmas crafts. Fun swims. Orienteering. Cotswold Wildlife Park with African Animal Talk and Brass Rubbing. Trip to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower. DT and Science Challenge in teams. Ice skating.

• • • • • • • • • •

School Shop The School Shop is located in the Murray Centre. It is open Monday to Friday from 11am - 1.30pm and from 6.15pm - 7.45pm. On Saturday it is open 12 noon - 2pm.

Classics Trip to Fishbourne Roman Palace. Cinema. Camping. Canoeing. Theatre trips. Social events with a boys’ school. Founder’s Weekend. Dance Showcase. Sports Day. Wakefield Award activities (see page 29).

FEELING AT HOME What should my daughter bring with her? Personalising her dorm space is very important. Her favourite cuddly toy is an ideal companion. Posters and favourite family photographs are also ideal. Don’t forget drawing pins for her notice board.

TRAVEL

A sensible amount of toiletries (sanitary products, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, shower cap and shower gel) should be brought. These should be named to avoid confusion in the bathrooms. Smaller sizes can be more easily stored. Top-ups can be bought from the School Shop. No aerosols should be brought back to School, as the smoke detectors are sensitive to the spray.

How are travel arrangements made? Term dates are published well in advance of each academic year in order to enable parents to make travel plans in good time. Leaving early or arriving late is not acceptable. However, should this be unavoidable, please send a request in writing to the Housemistress well in advance as she will need to grant permission. We know that you will not want your daughter to miss any valuable school time and will support us in keeping the term time sacrosanct.

What electrical items may my daughter bring back to School? Your daughter may bring devices such as an iPod, Kindle, e-reader and hairdryer, if she wishes. These should all conform to the British Safety Standards and be named, including the chargers. It is not advisable for these to be expensive models. No extension leads are permitted in the interests of safety. Girls coming from abroad must use adaptors that conform to the British Safety Standards. Handheld computer games should not be brought to School. Please also refer to page 20 and the paragraph ‘What devices can my daughter bring?' Plug-in air fresheners are not permitted and please ensure that any plug adapters conform to British Standards (BS8546).

A London bus is offered during short and long exeats but not at the beginning or end of term (due to luggage restrictions) for those girls wanting to travel to London. A form is available on the Parent Hub and the coach is accompanied by staff to and from the Novotel Hotel in Hammersmith. This is a very popular service and seats will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. No girl may use this coach service without written consent from her parents. Please use the sign-up form on the Parent Hub, giving at least seven days’ notice. How will my daughter get to the airport? Transport can be arranged to take and collect your daughter to and from the airport and a form is available on the Parent Hub. Wherever possible, girls will be transported by minibus or in a taxi shared with other girls. This could result in a wait at the airport for a short time in order to accommodate the flight times of the others. As well as completing and returning the form on the Parent Hub detailing the Flight Number, Airport and Terminal, date and time of the flight and Unaccompanied Minor status, please let the relevant Housemistress have the details too. These details need to be provided to the transport companies we work with. Please give at least seven working days’ notice for travel bookings.

What tuck may she bring with her? A small amount of tuck may be brought back and, of course, can be bought from the School Shop. Tuck will be stored centrally and should fit into a shoe box sized storage box. Fruit is provided in the Houses. Peanut butter and Nutella are NOT allowed in order to safeguard girls with a nut allergy. The School provides hot chocolate and squash for a cosy evening drink in the House. Each girl should have a named mug which she will use for her evening drink. She may also find a water bottle helpful to have by her bed at night. Birthdays We love birthdays in House! Please feel free to telephone your daughter on the special day. Presents and cards are opened in the morning or evening during a small celebration – if you would like to provide a cake, this is always gratefully received. Please contact your daughter’s Housemistress to discuss the arrangements for your daughter’s birthday. If you want to mark birthday post as such on the envelope, we will save it for the special day.

USEFUL INFORMATION IT Support Offices Where possible, please ask your daughter to log any IT issues she may have via the Schoolbase support desk. Alternatively, you can use the email address IThelpdesk@downehouse.net.

Is there anything I can contribute to the House? Any dressing-up clothes and high-heeled shoes are always a welcome addition to the dressing-up cupboard.

Library (Murray Centre) The Library is located in the Murray Centre and is open daily from 8am until 10pm, except for a Sunday when it opens at 10am or after Chapel.

Cakes Whilst the School provides biscuits for the girls’ snacks, there is nothing quite like a cake from home. If you would like to offer cakes, they would be much appreciated.

Lost Property The Lost Property Office is located next to the swimming pool. This is open on Monday frrom 6pm-6.30pm and Tuesday from 6pm – 7.30pm. You can also email Reception reception@ downehouse.net

Laundry Laundry is done weekly at School. Your daughter will need to take responsibility for the care of her clothes: how often things need to be washed, their storage and folding. A laundry bag can be bought from the School Shop to store dirty laundry. The Housestaff will deal with items with personal stains discreetly. Please do not bring anything to School which cannot be machinewashed and tumble dried.

Also remember to check Yammer, this where found items are advertised. Post There is a postbox for stamped mail inside Reception in Wakefield House. Stamps can be bought in the School Shop.

Library We are always pleased to receive second hand DVDs (PG and U only for Remove, 12s as well for the LIV) and books for the House libraries.

Resources The Resources Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am6pm. 24

POCKET MONEY AND PERSONAL DOCUMENTS

does not do so may have their license withdrawn by the Home Office. Where this occurs, all international students must leave the School and the impact on both students and school can be very serious. To ensure that pupils and parents comply with the UK Government’s requirements on visa entry, Downe House have instructed Newland Chase Education – a UK immigration law firm that specialises in student visas and school licenses to complete and submit all visa applications, whether these are overseas applications, or renewal visas in the U.K.

How much money should my daughter have? £30 will be a sufficient sum for your daughter to bring back with her each term, in a mixture of small change and small notes. When Remove girls go on School trips they are generally given a guide as to how much money to take with them. Therefore it is helpful if their money is kept in small denominations. She may replenish her pocket money at the exeat if necessary. Girls living overseas must lodge a larger amount of money with the Housemistress to cover the whole term if necessary. Please also note that each girl is provided with a personal safe, for which a padlock will be needed.

HOMESICKNESS - HOW TO COPE Homesickness often forms a natural part of the transition between home and School and should be recognised and understood. Dealing with it demands mutual trust, especially with the Housestaff.

As provision is made for the safekeeping of money, the School accepts no responsibility for money lost when girls have failed to hand it in.

Children away from home for the first time are easily upset by the apparent complexity of a new system. They need to be supported and guided into it, so that they can relax and feel confident quickly. Keeping busy and making friends are the fastest ways to counteract homesickness.

What happens if my daughter runs out of money? Never worry, your daughter will be well looked after. Housestaff will always help her out in an emergency, and your permission will be gained via email. If I live overseas who will be responsible for passports, visas, vaccination certificates, tickets etc? All documents for girls living abroad should be handed in to her Housemistress who will hold them for safekeeping until they are required. Parents are responsible for seeing that passports and visas are valid and that tickets are sent to her Housemistress for safekeeping well before the departure date. Where possible, vaccinations should be carried out in the holidays but the Palmer Centre at School will help in an emergency.

The strength of the first year at Downe lies in the level of adult contact with girls and parents, which enables the new routine, and a swift integration into a new ‘family’ unit in School, to be established as soon as each girl is comfortable. This provides a secure framework in which each girl can find her feet and explore a new and stimulating environment, where she can share her achievements with parents and guardians with pride. It is a fact that some children take longer than others to settle. Encourage your daughter to be positive and to regard this new chapter as the beginning of a great adventure.

Child Student Visa We welcome international students to Downe House. Not only are they able to benefit from a UK education but they enrich our School life and enhance the experience of local students. Children from other countries, who wish to attend school in the UK and who do not have a separate right to come and study in the UK, must apply for a Child Student visa. As a Child Student visa sponsor Downe House must hold a license which is issued by the UK Home Office. Our license number is: GHC8QAKV2. With this license comes several responsibilities which we, like all Child Student visa sponsors, must always comply with. Any school that

Homesickness – A Parents’ Guide DO encourage your daughter to share her feelings and concerns with us as well as with you, and to trust us. DO encourage her to share all the excitement of her new surroundings. DO get her to talk positively about her new routine. DO get her to appreciate her achievements in boarding as a big success. DO say how proud you are of her.

Pocket Money Pocket money is most useful in very small denominations i.e. 10p, 20p, 50p, and a few one pound coins, about £30 in total.

DO reassure her that we are in a close partnership together with you. DO ‘blur’ the edges between home and School. She has not been ‘sent away’ but ‘sent to’ an exciting, caring place where she can realise her hopes and dreams.

Posters Posters and photographs to decorate your daughter’s pinboard will help her to feel at home. Remember to bring the drawing pins!

DO let her feel your support strongly if she cries. Go for a quick turnaround to laughter. Remind her of all she is achieving.

Sewing Kit There are sewing materials in the House, but it will be helpful if your daughter also has her own sewing kit and is competent to use it.

DO reassure her that you are fine. Have a new initiative for yourself. DO telephone us if you feel low. Many of us have been through this too.

Smart Mufti This is worn for theatre trips and to all major events given in School. Clothes should be smart and comfortable. Please limit the number of pairs of shoes that the girls bring.

DO make her feel that all the familiar routines at home are still there. DO make time to meet her ‘new’ friends on your visits. Perhaps take one or two out for lunch with you. This makes you part of the scene.

Sports Kit (mouthguards, goggles) Mouthguards can be ordered from a specialist company called Titan which visits the School in the first half of term, and goggles are compulsory for Lacrosse and strongly recommended for squash.

THINGS TO BRING - CHECKLIST Bedding Duvet, duvet cover, pillow and pillow case. These items should conform with British Safety Standards. The School provides fitted sheets only. For overseas girls, if you would like the School to provide you with a duvet and pillow please let your Housemistress know and she will be happy to help.

Teddy Bears These are a vital part of the House community and will be very welcome but please do remember that these must fit in the bed with your daughter! Toiletries Please name these to avoid confusion in the bathrooms. Small sizes of toiletries are more convenient. Girls should bring separate shampoo and conditioner (for nit combing). Shower gel is easier to use than soap and a shower cap is useful. The House has a small supply of sanitary products, but your daughter should have some of her own and be confident about using them. Don’t forget the deodorant but please avoid aerosols. The School Shop stocks a small supply of toiletries for emergencies.

Cartridge pen A cartridge pen and washable ink cartridges. Electrical Items Girls are not allowed any electrical items other than an iPod/ Kindle/e-reader/iPad and a hairdryer. Many girls find audio books ease their way into sleep. The equipment should conform to British Safety Standards and be named clearly. It is not advisable to bring expensive equipment and extension leads are not allowed. Please also see 'What devices can my daughter bring?' on page 20.

Torch A hand held torch and batteries may be brought. Towels Towels, clearly named and with a hanging loop.

General stationery Please bring writing paper and stamps, pencils, crayons, sellotape, a geometry set and scissors. For maths also bring a protractor (180° or 360°), a pair of compasses, a ruler, a pencil (HB), an eraser, a black or blue pen and a scientific calculator (Casio FX83GT) which is also available from the School Shop.

Tuck This should be mostly small sweets. Please do not provide chewing gum. Pot Noodles or other ‘meal replacements’ are not allowed because they encourage girls to miss proper meals. Arrangements can be made for a limited amount of credit to be put on her Squid Card for girls to purchase tuck.

Jewellery During the working day, girls are able to wear a single unobtrusive pendant such as a cross, Star of David or St Christopher. They may also wear one pair of plain stud earrings. At weekends a modest amount of additional jewellery may be worn. Please do not bring any items which are especially valuable or have sentimental significance.

Tuck Box These larger, lockable wooden or plastic boxes (approx L50cm x W30cm x H30cm) are useful places to store personal items (but not sweets) and can be bought from John Lewis and other department stores. Please also provide a padlock.

Labels Please give your daughter two dozen name tapes at the beginning of the year and label EVERYTHING!

Uniform See uniform section on page 30. Please note that there will only be sufficient hanging space for uniform.

Laptop (Microsoft Surface) - COMPULSORY Please see page 20 and the paragraph ‘What devices can my daughter bring?' Luggage Please bring suitcases or large zipped laundry bags rather than trunks. You will be asked to take empty luggage home after it has been unpacked. Girls should also have an overnight bag for Short Exeats and a ‘casual bag’ or backpack for trips out.

Wacky Bs/Birthdays This is a basket given to each girl on her birthday and comprises small presents up to the value of £5, donated by every girl in her year group. All girls should come with a small selection of gifts to be donated to the Wacky B. (There are always quite a few birthdays in the Michaelmas term.) Remember to stock up at exeats. The Housemistress will advise how many birthdays there are each term.

Mugs Each girl is welcome to bring a named mug, which she can use for her evening drink.

Water Bottle Regular hydration is important and a bottle is compulsory for all trips offsite, as well as being useful for a night time drink.

Musical Instruments These should be kept in a case and named clearly. Instruments should also be insured on your home insurance policy. Padlock Each girl is provided with a small personal safe, for which a padlock will be needed. 26

Academic Progress

Lower School Curriculum The curriculum in Remove (11+) and in Lower Fourth (12+) is designed to give as much variety of educational experience as possible. A large number of subjects make up the timetable. Five periods a week are devoted to English and Mathematics, each of which is regarded as a foundation subject upon which rests the future performance in Arts and Science subjects. In all subjects girls receive an important grounding in fundamental skills.

Optional Extra Subjects which are taken during prep time One or two instruments Singing Speech and Drama Tennis coaching Squash coaching Lower Fourth Curriculum All subjects are compulsory at this stage. French, Latin and Mathematics are taught in divisions. The following subjects are taught: English French Latin Mathematics Biology/Physics/Chemistry Geography History Religious Studies Art and Ceramics Music Drama Information Technology Physical Education Technology (Food, Graphics, Resistant Materials, Textiles), Personal Health, Lyceum Learning and Social Education = Learning for Life (PSHE)

In the Remove, French and Mathematics are taught in divisions, rather than the form in which a girl is placed. In Remove, previous experience in French helps to determine the division. In Mathematics they are taught in their form for the first term and then put in divisions. Latin is taught in divisions from the Lower Fourth in addition to French. Movement between divisions is possible. During the Lower Fourth, every girl spends one term in France following a course produced in consultation with our Heads of Department and are taught, as far as possible, in French. Mathematics and French are taught in bands. We also offer a lesson titled Lyceum Learning. The aim of this programme is to develop philosophical thinking and dialogue, which underpin an examination of the contemporary world.

Optional Extra Subjects which are taken during prep time One or two instruments Singing Speech and Drama Squash Coaching Tennis Coaching

A programme of enrichment lectures is offered to all girls in Lower School. These sessions enable girls to widen their knowledge of the world and current affairs; they promote and encourage the girls to think outside the classroom.

Lower Fourth and the French Project During the course of the Lower Fourth year all girls spend one term at our School in France. The Downe House French Project is intended to broaden the girls’ education by enabling them to spend a term living in France. This provides them with the opportunity to:

A Personal, Health and Social Education programme, which continues until the end of Sixth Form, encourages the development of important skills. At the end of these two years, we would expect girls to have developed the following skills and values: 1

Expressing themselves fluently and clearly both orally, in writing and using IT when appropriate.

Improve substantially their command of French, wherever possible involving interaction with the local community.

2 Learn about the locality and the way of life of the local people, participating in it as much as possible, including visiting local schools and an old people’s home.

2 Reading aloud confidently. 3 Writing legibly, yet speedily, with accurate spelling.

3 Study the geography and history of the area.

4 Thinking both analytically, creatively and spatially.

4 Produce a journal requiring the use of a variety of resources, including local museums and libraries.

5 Appreciating School as a community necessitating 'give and take.'

5 Learn about the political structure of France, especially its local government.

6 Beginning to develop effective revision and examination techniques.

6 Maintain existing numeracy skills and scientific awareness.

7 Good manners. 8 Having an awareness of the wider world and their place in it.

7 Use the environment to inspire art and craft work, some with a technological element.

9 Continuing to develop a sense of morality with regard to their own actions and those of others.

8 Take part in a major expedition outside the locality.

Term in France Girls in the LIV are provided with a unique opportunity to experience life in France, the French culture and language at the Remove Curriculum (Entry at 11+) 18th Century Chateau de Sauveterre in the Michaelmas term. The The year consists of three/four mixed-ability teaching groups. whole year group is able to take part in the adventure together French and Mathematics are taught in divisions based initially and there is no better way to develop independence, confidence on previous teaching. All subjects are compulsory. Girls may as well as making lifelong memories. Each girl has the opportunity also learn one or two instruments and Speech and Drama. The to immerse herself in a new culture. Teaching and learning following subjects are taught: are of the utmost importance and all lessons except English English French and Mathematics are delivered in French as far as is practical. Latin Mathematics Photography also features in the curriculum together with French History Art and Ceramics culture lessons, Sport, wellbeing and Art, as well as traditional Geography Drama subjects such as History and Geography. Full information Religious Studies Information Technology regarding the term in France will be given well in advance. Music Biology/Physics/Chemistry Second Language and Creative Subject Choices Physical Education Towards the end of the Lower Fourth year girls are invited to add Technology (Food, Graphics, Resistant Materials, Textiles), German, Spanish or Italian to their Upper Fourth curriculum. When Personal Health, Lyceum Learning and Social Education = Learning considering whether to take up a second language, it is important for Life (PSHE) 10 Taking a pride in their work.

to realise that German, Spanish and Italian are taught as additional subjects. Girls should therefore be coping well with their existing subjects before taking on this extra workload. Girls also choose the creative subjects they wish to combine in the UIV. They can exercise choice in relation to Art, Drama, DT and Music. Girls may continue with up to three of their subjects in the UIV. What happens if I have a concern about my daughter’s progress or academic work? Please feel free to get in touch with the Assistant Head (Lower School) , your daughter’s Housemistress or Academic Tutor. They work closely together and will liaise as appropriate over any concerns that you may raise. How will I hear of my daughter’s general progress? In addition to the contact that you will have with the Assistant Head (Lower School), your daughter’s Housemistress and Academic Tutor, you will also have the opportunity to meet the staff who teach her and care for her early in the first term at the first exeat. There is a Parents’ Meeting twice a year in the Remove to Upper Fourth for you to discuss your daughter’s progress directly with her teachers. What are the arrangements for prep? Prep is timetabled, as far as possible, into your daughter’s working day and is supervised up to the Upper Fourth. Generally, at the beginning of her School career, she will be able to complete her prep during these times, although she may find that she has to work in the evenings in the House, especially if she has a number of extra lessons, for example, Music and Speech and Drama. If my daughter has difficulties with her prep, what should she do? Please do not worry if your daughter takes time to adjust to the demands of prep. This is quite normal. However, if you are concerned, please do talk to the Assistant Head (Lower School), her Housemistress or her Academic Tutor, who will be monitoring her workload. Academic Enrichment Lectures for the Lower School provide a programme of academic enrichment designed for Remove and Lower Fourth girls, aimed at inspiring our younger pupils to develop a love of learning outside the classroom. We are fortunate at Downe House to have a passionate team of staff willing to give of their time to enrich the girls’ knowledge and experiences in their own subjects. We also invite outside speakers. Below are examples of lectures and enrichment sessions which the girls have recently experienced: •

Lower School Debating Society

•

House Science Competition

•

Medley Lecture: ‘The Ocean at the Top of the World’ by Helen Czerski

•

Murray Centre Residencies

•

Remove Roman Mysteries Talk with Caroline Lawrence

•

Festival of Literature

•

Author Talk: An evening with Karen McCombie and Nicola Penfold

•

Slam Poetry Competition

Reading We believe strongly in the importance of reading, and each evening girls will have the opportunity for silent reading during Little Lights from 8.45pm-9.15pm. Please find here a link to our School's reading list, curated by our librarian Mrs Hill.

The Wakefield Award The Wakefield Award is a young leaders’ award which the girls work towards during their Lower School years at Downe House. Through fun and exploration, they extend their horizons and discover their potential. It is awarded at gold, silver and bronze level and aims to develop a sense of adventure and personal challenge in the girls, in turn supporting them to grow in self-esteem and feel confidence in their own abilitites.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

Downe House School Shop. Tel: 01727 815201. Email: downehouse@stevensons.co.uk To order uniform online, go to www.stevensons.co.uk All queries about shop cards etc should be directed to the School Shop. What will my daughter be expected to wear for formal occasions? All girls should have an outfit suitable for formal occasions: 1

herself. Please rest assured the organisation of personal laundry will be monitored very carefully by the Housestaff so that the highest standards of personal hygiene are set. Any spills or accidents will be dealt with sensitively and promptly.

A smart skirt of an appropriate length or a smart pair of trousers with an appropriate shirt.

Dry cleaning can be arranged if necessary through the Housestaff for an additional cost. Dry clean only items should be kept to a minimum.

2 Appropriate smart, sensible shoes, which may be uniform shoes (black only).

Your daughter should bring two dozen nametapes at the beginning of the Michaelmas term for emergency use. Sports kit may be washed in the School Laundry and should be taken home at each exeat to be washed. Any items brought back after the initial arrival should also be clearly named.

3 Appropriate tights must be worn. 4 Discreet jewellery may be worn with smart mufti at the Housestaff’s discretion.

Hand washing of items is not permitted in the boarding houses.

Informal clothing such as denim skirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts are not acceptable items for formal wear but, a small amount may be brought as comfortable mufti. Please do name everything.

Jewellery During the working day girls are able to wear a single unobtrusive pendant such as a cross, Star of David or St Christopher. They may also wear one pair of plain stud earrings.

What mufti will my daughter need? Mufti clothes should be practical and are strictly limited due to limited hanging space. These should be neat and in a good state of repair. Girls should have three changes of clothes in School (one set of comfortable mufti).

At weekends, a modest amount of additional jewellery may be worn. Please note that NO VALUABLE items should be brought to school. Hair, make-up and general appearance Your daughter will be expected to look neat and tidy at all times. She should bring a small sewing kit back with her for the repair of her uniform. The school reserves the right to buy uniform on your behalf if your daughter does not have all the necessary items stated on the uniform list or if her uniform is in a state of ill repair.

What happens to my daughter’s laundry? Laundry is taken care of by the School Laundry and the system will be explained carefully to the girls by your daughter’s Housemistress in September. She will need to be ready to take responsibility for the care of her clothes and be aware of how often things need to be washed.

Your daughter will not be permitted to bleach or dye her hair unsuitably. It should also not be cut in such a way (for example with a long fringe) which prevents it from being neatly held away from her face. If it is long, it will need to be tied back during the working day with a dark, plain clip or hair tie. No make-up or nail varnish or acrylic nails may be worn. Piercings, braids and tattoos are not allowed.

There is no extra charge for the regular laundering of bed linen, towels or personal clothing. This is done weekly. All items should be clearly named and suitable for machine-washing and tumbledrying. It would help your daughter if she were able to sew on a name label. Whilst the Housestaff will help her do this, it will save time and reduce the risk of losing an item if she can sew on a label 30

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL Available from the School Shop All items are compulsory unless otherwise stated

SCHOOL UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS Remove girls Quantity

Item

1 DH black outdoor jacket 1 School blazer (dark green with pale blue piping) 2 Tartan kilts 3 V-necked jumpers 4 Pale blue blouses (long-sleeved) 4 Pale blue blouses (short-sleeved) for summer 8 pairs Ankle or knee socks – black 4 pairs Cotton tights – black

Lower Fourth girls Quantity 1 1 2 3 4 4 8 pairs 4 pairs

Item DH black outdoor jacket School blazer (dark green with pale blue piping) Tartan kilts V-necked jumpers Pale blue blouses (long-sleeved) Pale blue blouses (short-sleeved) for summer Ankle or knee socks – black Cotton tights – black

PE/SPORTS KIT Quantity

Item

Details

Optional

Details

Optional

Details

2 Skorts - black with jade piping 1 2-in-1 athletics shorts – black 3 Polo shirts - white with DH logo, one with number for lacrosse Order from the School Shop only, 3-4 week lead time 1 House athletics vest - white with House colour on side panels 2 pairs Hockey knee-length socks - black with jade turnover 3 pairs Lacrosse mid-calf socks - black with jade turnover 4 pairs Ankle sports socks - white 1 Tracksuit top - black with jade panels 1 Tracksuit bottoms - black with jade panels 1 Midlayer top - black with jade piping 1 Baselayer top - plain white Optional (but strongly advised) 1 Baselayer leggings - plain black Optional (but strongly advised) 1 Swimming costume - plain black 1 Swimming cap - House colour 1 pair Swimming goggles 1 Swimming towel - jade with white DH logo Optional 1 Leotard - black with jade side panels 1 pair Footless tights - black 1 pair Football boots (for lacrosse) 1 Lacrosse stick and gloves 1 Lacrosse goggles 1 pair Athletics spikes (Summer Term only) 1 Kit bag 1 Hockey stick and shin pads

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL Available from the School Shop MISCELLANEOUS Quantity 1 2 1 1

Item

Details

Backpack with DH logo Laundry bags (net) Swimming bag - white mesh Boot bag with DH logo Name tapes

Specially designed to protect their Microsoft Surface

Purchase voucher from School Shop and redeem at www.thenametapecompany.com. Delivery is 3-5 working days 1 Casio FX-83GTX/FX-85GTX calculator Recommended by the Maths department or Casio FW-991EX (which is recommended for the Upper School)

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL Not Available from the School Shop SCHOOL UNIFORM Quantity

Item

1 pair

Black leather shoes - flat, offering good arch support (no moccasins or ballet pumps)

Details

PE/SPORTS KIT Quantity

Item

Details

1 Boil and Bite mouthguard (NOT white or clear) Needed for start of term and summer Lacrosse Camp 1 Custom fitted mouthguard – made and fitted by TITAN (see separate information) 1 pair Trainers – for outdoor use only (no Nike Air Force or other fashion trainers) 1 pair Indoor trainers (no Nike Air Force or other fashion trainers) 1 Hockey astroturfs Optional 1 Tennis racket and cover 1 Squash racket Optional 1 pair White tennis shoes Optional unless in School team 1 White tennis skirt Optional unless in School team 1 Sports bra Suitable for medium to high impact support 1 pair House socks Issued once at School

NON UNIFORM CLOTHING Quantity

Item

1 1 pair 1 pair 3–4 2 pairs 1 6 5 14 pairs 1 3 pairs

Knee-length smart dress or skirt, or trousers (not jeans) and a top Plain coloured tights Smart sensible shoes – these may be uniform shoes Tops for casual wear Jeans or casual trousers Coat Vests with low neckline (no t-shirts to be worn under uniform) Bras Pants Warm dressing gown Pyjamas or nightdresses

Details

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL Not Available from the School Shop 1 pair

Bedroom slippers – sturdy

Quantity

Item

MISCELLANEOUS 2 2 1 1 pair 1 1 1 2

Details

Bath towels Single duvet covers and pillow cases Single duvet and pillow Wellington boots Hairbrush and fine-toothed comb Nit comb Sponge bag Flannels and 1 nail brush Plain dark coloured hair ties for when uniform is worn Coat hangers – including skirt hangers Sewing kit and shoe cleaning kit Music case, if appropriate Pencil case including cartridge fountain pen and cartridges Pocket Oxford dictionary or combined dictionary/Thesaurus Small, lockable storage box for personal items Sweetie/tuck box Purse and watch (both named) Water bottle (named) Compulsory for all off-site trips 4 AA batteries for House safes Microsoft Surface laptop and headphones Wireless headphones/set with Bluetooth capability (There is no headphone jack on the latest models of Microsoft Surface)

Additional Information

SCHOOL RULES

v) To facilitate effective communication between parents, pupils and School. vi) To provide an environment of good discipline in which self- discipline is developed and all pupils can flourish.

School Code of Conduct The School sees education as a partnership. Our staff are committed to excellence, aiming to achieve a spirit of trust and co-operation. We expect our pupils to uphold the highest values and standards of behaviour inside and outside the classroom, as well as outside the School and in any written or electronic communication concerning the School. Parents are expected to support the School in managing expectations of behaviour and the provisions of this Policy, both at home and at School. We expect pupils to treat members of staff with courtesy and cooperation so that they can learn in a relaxed but orderly atmosphere, and to respond positively to the opportunities and demands of School life. We expect pupils to be ready to learn and to participate in school activities. They should attend school and lessons punctually. They should care for the buildings, equipment and furniture. We expect pupils to behave at all times in a manner that reflects the best interests of the whole School community. Everyone has a right to feel secure and to be treated with respect at the School, particularly the vulnerable. Harassment and bullying in any form will not be tolerated, including online or outside of school. Our Behaviour Management Policy and our Prevention of Bullying Policy are on SchoolBase as well as on the School’s website. The School takes its duties under the Equality Act 2010 seriously and makes appropriate reasonable adjustments for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND or certain health conditions). The School is strongly committed to promoting equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, religion, culture, sex, gender, sexual orientation, special educational needs, disability or learning difficulty, or the fact that a child is adopted, looked after or is a carer. The School reserves the right to take disciplinary action against pupils who are found to have deliberately invented or made malicious accusations, whether against other pupils, staff or other individuals.

Key Rules 1. General courtesy is required around the School: for example, girls should use appropriate language at all times, remember to hold doors open for others, arrive for all lessons or commitments punctually. 2. Every girl must treat her environment and all property and belongings with respect. 3. Every girl must avoid disruptive/anti-social behaviour. 4. Girls who have permission to go out must ensure that they are always in a group with at least two other girls. 5. All girls up to and including the LVI must have permission from their Housemistress/master to use a taxi, or the permission of the Palmer Centre to use a taxi for medical appointments. 6. Borrowing anything without the permission of the owner is not allowed. 7. Visits from family are welcomed at the weekend. However, guests (whether family or friends) should never wander around the site unaccompanied and should always make their visit known to the Housemistress/master. 8. The use of cars is strictly limited and any girl wishing to bring a car to School must have the permission of the Headmistress and abide by the set procedures and, in particular, with regard to lifts. No School pupil may travel in the car of another School pupil, or another pupil’s parents, unless written permission has been given by her parents. 9. Every girl must observe the ﬁre procedures as displayed on the House Boards. Girls should note that on hearing the alarm, they must go quickly and in SILENCE to the designated assembly points.

School Rules The School Rules are designed to allow all pupils to learn and thrive in an educational environment that is safe and inclusive. They should be read in conjunction with the School’s disciplinary and safeguarding policies and the Parental Contract (Terms and Conditions), copies of which can be found on Pupil and Parent Portals (SchoolBase). The School may amend any of its policies from time to time and without notice. The Pupil and Parent Portals (SchoolBase) should be checked on a regular basis for updates.

10. Girls should attend all meals. 11. Full School uniform must be worn at all times during the School day. 12. No jewellery other than a discreet pendant and chain, a watch and one small pair of studs in the ears, as appropriate, may be worn during the School day; hair of shoulder length must be tied back; no nail varnish or make-up may be worn (in Lower and Upper Schools). Hair should not be dyed inappropriately. Body piercing and tattooing are not permitted. Mufti (non-School uniform dress) must be tidy and appropriate.

When do the School Rules apply? The Rules apply to all pupils at the School, whether day or boarding. The Rules apply whilst pupils are: (a) on the School site; (b) off the School site but under the lawful control or charge of a member of staff (for example, whilst on a School trip); (c) off the School site or otherwise not under the lawful control or charge of a member of staff but are wearing School uniform or are in some other way identifiable in connection with the School; and (d) in any circumstances where a pupil is acting in a manner which could adversely affect the reputation of the School, the orderly running of the School or which poses a threat to another pupil or member of the public.

13. To preserve the Cloister area, girls must not walk on the grass except in the designated areas and must treat this with the utmost respect. 14. Girls are not permitted to undertake any form of trading, unless they have arranged this with a member of staﬀ and have the permission of the Deputy Head (Pastoral). This restriction includes the use (either as buyer or seller), of internet-based auction sites, such as eBay, as well as the purchase or sale of private property such as CDs.

The Rules apply to all parents whilst their child is a pupil at the School.

15. As chewing gum is often the cause of damage to clothing, carpets and paths when not disposed of properly, it is not permitted on site.

Uderlying Principles i) To uphold the School’s Values; ii) To encourage pupils to show respect, good manners, punctuality and consideration for others. iii) To keep pupils safe; protected from abuse of any kind. iv) To encourage the academic, personal and social development of all pupils.

16. Drones or other pilotless aircraft may not be brought into School. IMPORTANT: Any of the following behaviours along with any other act or omission that is criminal and/or illegal is likely to result in suspension or permanent exclusion:

i) Drug, alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, vaping or other substance misuse (including supply, possession or use).

4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

ii) Bullying (including cyber bullying, prejudice-based and discriminatory bullying). iii) Physical assault/threatening behaviour. iv) Fighting.

Alcohol Policy Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy Equal Opportunities and Valuing Diversity Policy Internet and Social Networking Policy for pupils Information Systems Acceptable Use Policy Permanent Exclusion and Removal Policy and procedure

In addition to the core disciplinary and safeguarding policies, the School has a number of other policies, some of which only apply to particular departments or activities. Pupils should also familiarise themselves with these as failure to comply with them may lead to the imposition of a sanction.

v) Sexual harassment. vi) Racist or sexist abuse. vii) Sexual misconduct including sexting and/or the consensual or non-consensual sharing of nudes/semi-nudes. viii) Theft.

Persistent breach of these policies and this guidance is likely to result in the imposition of a suspension or permanent exclusion; individual breach of these is likely to result in the imposition of a Minor Sanction.

ix) Damage to property. x) Cheating in examinations including coursework, and not following the code of conduct for examinations. xi) Misuse of the School’s IT system. xii) Bringing prohibited Items or other illegal, inappropriate or dangerous items into School;

REWARDS AND SANCTIONS

xiii) Misconduct which adversely affects or is likely to adversely affect the welfare of a member or members of the School community.

Importance of praise and reward Sanctions are an important part of managing expectations; however, pupils should also be praised, whenever appropriate, for work, effort and any other actions both orally in House, in class and in writing. There should be written praise on all appropriate pieces of written work, together with clear targets of how further improvements could be made. A member of staff may bring any pupil who performs well in any area of school life to the attention of her Head of Department (HoD) or the Tutor, or the HsM of the pupil, or the Headmistress depending on whatever appears to be the most appropriate. Praise from any staff related to a pupil should always be encouraged and entered on the School’s MIS (SchoolBase) when possible and appropriate. The following list (which is not exhaustive) shows ways in which pupils’ work and effort can be rewarded: • Merit Stickers • Commendations • Stars • Presentations of vouchers in assembly and in Houses at the end of term • Spontaneous book prizes • School prizes (awarded annually after consultation with the Staff) • Colours: PE (awarded for the different sporting disciplines on a termly basis) • Colours: Drama and Music (awarded termly or annually to celebrate personal achievement)

xiv) Misconduct which brings or is likely to bring the School into disrepute. xv) Making a deliberately invented or malicious allegation against a member of staff or pupil or the School. xvi) Persistent breaches of the School’s policies or other disruptive or anti-social behaviour. xvii) Refusing to participate in a drugs test or a with-consent search when asked to do so by a member of staff in accordance with the relevant policy. xviii) Leaving the School’s campus without the permission of an HsM or other relevant member of staff. Prohibited Items i) knives or weapons; ii) alcohol; iii) illegal drugs; iv) stolen items; v) tobacco & cigarette papers; vi) fireworks; vii) pornographic images; viii) any articles that the member of staff suspects has been or is likely to be used to commit an offence or to cause personal injury or damage to the property of any person (including the pupil); ix) replica knives and weapons; x) ammunition; xi) drugs which lead to legal highs; xii) equipment relating to illegal drugs or drugs which lead to legal highs; xiii) vapes and e-cigarettes; and xiv) steroids

Sanctions It is hoped that pupils will respond to the School’s positive encouragement and rewards and will comply with the School Rules at all times. However, the School acknowledges that from time to time, pupils’ conduct may fall below the standards of behaviour reasonably expected by the School. Sanctions assist the School in enforcing the School Rules and help the School to set boundaries and to manage unacceptable or challenging behaviour from pupils. Any sanctions will be applied fairly, reasonably, and proportionately and, where appropriate, after due investigative action has taken place. Sanctions may undergo reasonable change from time to time but will never involve any form of unlawful or degrading activity. Corporal punishment is illegal and is never used or threatened at the School. The sanctions listed below are not exhaustive, and staff may consider other measures or sanctions as appropriate. NB: There are specific sanctions that relate to smoking and vaping.

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of pupils, the following guidance is important. 1. Conduct for public examinations. 2. Observance of the out of bounds rules. 3. Observance of health and safety rules in Houses, classrooms, during sport and other activities and around the campus. 4. Rules related to driving a car, other motorised vehicles or bicycles either in the School grounds or outside them, during term time. The School Rules should be read in conjunction with the School’s other disciplinary and safeguarding policies, listed below, copies of which can be found on the Pupil and Parent Portals (SchoolBase). 1. Behaviour Management Policy 2. Prevention of Bullying Policy 3. Drug/Substance Abuse Policy

Minor Sanctions Any minor sanction can be imposed by any teacher or any other member of staff with pastoral or academic responsibility for pupils. Poor behaviour witnessed by any other member of staff

c) Weekend Gating – to be used by an HsM or LT and will involve a pupil being detained in house over a Saturday and Sunday. Parents will be informed by the HsM as appropriate.

should be reported to an appropriate teacher or other member of staff with responsibility for pupils who can follow it up if they consider it appropriate. Examples of minor sanctions that are used in the School include but are not limited to: • Verbal reprimand from a member of staff; • Letter or email to parents to advise of the misbehaviour; • Repeating unsatisfactory work until it meets the required standard; • Withdrawal of privileges; • Confiscation of property that is being used inappropriately or without consideration; • Regular reporting to a member of staff: including academic performance reporting, early morning reporting, scheduled uniform and other behaviour checks, or being identified for behaviour monitoring; • Withdrawal from a lesson, school trip or team event.

d) House Report – to be used by an HsM and will involve the pupil reporting to her HsM at set times through the day for a period of time. This may be used in conjunction with gating or weekend gating. Parents will be informed by the HsM as appropriate. Suspension or Permanent Exclusion The Headmistress may suspend or, in serious or persistent cases, permanently exclude a pupil if they consider their behaviour or conduct is unsatisfactory. Examples of behaviour which may result in this are listed under ‘Key Rules’. Suspension or permanent exclusion may also be imposed where unsatisfactory behaviour has continued despite previous disciplinary sanctions and/or warnings. Suspension will usually be served immediately. However, in exceptional circumstances and at its sole discretion, the School may postpone the start date of suspension or decide that the suspension is to be served over two split periods. If a suspension is imposed at the end of term, it will not be served until the beginning of the next term. Following their permanent exclusion or whilst suspended, a pupil may not: enter the School site without the permission of the Headmistress of Deputy Head; or join any school trips and will not receive a refund for any monies paid for such trips.

Academic Sanctions The academic sanctions detailed below are designed to provide a supportive environment that enables inappropriate classroom behaviour and/or academic practices to be modified. Use of sanctions must be clear, proportionate and consistent and full details of their imposition and the justification must be recorded on the Management Information System (MIS). The following are not permissible sanctions: sending a pupil out of class and back to House, setting lines, deliberate humiliation of a pupil either privately or in front of her peers, any form of physical or verbal abuse. Corporal punishment is forbidden. The following sanctions may be applied in accordance with the severity of the poor behaviour or work practice:

A pupil may be suspended whilst an incident which the Headmistress considers may involve that pupil and which the Headmistress considers may result in the suspension or permanent exclusion of one or more pupils is being investigated. This is a neutral act. During any periods of suspension period, the School will continue to provide the pupil with work and the pupil is expected to maintain their academic work. At the end of the period of the suspension, depending upon the outcome of the investigation, the pupil may return to School and/or a disciplinary sanction may be imposed.

a) Departmental Detention – each department may run a detention of at least 20 minutes as required. Pupils will be asked to complete tasks as directed by the teacher or Head of Department. b) Subject Report –a pupil may be placed on a subject report by the HoD or Assistant Head (Sections). They will have to present a subject report card to the subject teacher each lesson for comment. This will be reviewed regularly by the HoD or Assistant Head (Sections).

Other Sanctions The measures below may be used as either Academic or Pastoral Sanctions and are designed to provide a supportive environment which enables inappropriate behaviour to be modified. Use of sanctions must be recorded on the Management Information System (MIS).

c) Supervised Study Session –a pupil may be required to undertake a supervised work session. Study sessions are used for completing or redoing prep or class work. Study sessions are to be seen as a supportive measure. Pupils may sign up to a study session of their own accord.

a) Assistant Head (Sections) Report - a pupil may be sent to the relevant Assistant Head and be put on Head of Section (Assistant Head (Sections)) report.

d) Progress Book - a pupil may be sent to her Tutor or Housestaff and be put on a period of Progress Book. The pupil must present the book to her teacher at the start of each lesson and collect, with a comment, at the end of each lesson. Each night this must be discussed with her HsM and at the end of the period must be shown to the Tutor and/or Assistant Head (Section).

b) On Report –to be used by the Deputy Head, Deputy Head Pastoral or Assistant Head (Sections) and involves a pupil reporting to the relevant member of staff at set points in the day for a period of time. This may be given in conjunction with other sanctions i.e., weekend gating. c) Headmistress’s Report – to be used by the Headmistress and involves a pupil reporting to the Headmistress at set points in the day for a period of time. This may be given in conjunction with other punishments i.e., weekend gating/Deputy Head detention. Parents will be informed by the HsM or a member of LT.

Pastoral Sanctions The measures below are designed to provide a supportive environment which enables inappropriate behaviour to be modified. Use of sanctions must be recorded on the Management Information System (MIS).

d) Fines – to be issued in response to offences relating to smoking or vaping.

The following are not permissible as sanctions: sending a pupil out of class and back to house, setting lines, deliberate humiliation of a pupil either privately or in front of her peers, and any form of physical or verbal abuse. Corporal punishment is forbidden. The following sanctions may be applied in accordance with the severity of the inappropriate behaviour:

SANCTIONS IN REALATION TO SMOKING AND VAPING A pro-active, supportive, and educational approach is taken by the School in order to prevent pupils engaging with smoking and vaping, both of which are illegal below the age of 18 and not permitted in school or on any school activity at any time. However, where pupils do not engage with such pastoral support and breaches of School policy occur there will be potentially very serious consequences.

a) Community Service – to be used by HsMs alone or as a part of a period of gating. It may include picking up of litter (gloves will be supplied), sorting laundry, tidying bookcases or similar tasks. b) Gating – to be used by an HsM or LT and will involve a pupil being detained in House for a period of time and denied privileges.

Please note that in some circumstances pupils may be required to complete a period of community service an alternative sanction to a fine. 1.

vaping paraphernalia on them or in their belongings, whether knowingly or unknowingly. All pupils who are involved in smoking or vaping incidents will be required to spend time with the Health Centre so that help and support can be provided. They would be expected to engage positively with this. Any pupil who needs help or support in relation to smoking or vaping may also go to the Health Centre for help and advice. A more lenient view, from that above, may be taken where there are significant mitigating circumstances. This may include a pupil who proactively seeks help and guidance and agrees to a programme of support. It could also involve parents coming forward actively seeking help on behalf of their daughters and themselves.

First offence – a pupil will be gated for one weekend (this will be the next appropriate weekend); parents will be informed; a £10 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses; and they will be placed on House report for one week.

2. Second offence – a pupil will be gated for two consecutive weekends (these will be the next appropriate ones); parents will be informed; a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses, and they will be placed on Head of Section report for one week.

Alcohol No alcohol may be brought into School. If a pupil is caught drinking (unless at an authorised event), in the presence of drinkers, drunk or smelling of alcohol, or with alcohol in her possession she should be escorted to her Housemistress (in her absence the Assistant Housemistress). The incident must be reported to the Headmistress, Deputy Headmistress, Deputy Head (Pastoral) or other relevant Senior member of staff e.g. Assistant Heads (Sections). The Headmistress may give permission to breathalyse the pupil to confirm the consumption of alcohol. A pupil whose condition gives cause for concern may be required to go to the Health Centre. Pupils who have alcohol in their possession without permission will have it taken away or disposed of. Pupils holding a position of responsibility may lose it temporarily or permanently. Parents will be notified and relevant sanction applied in accordance with the Behaviour and Discipline Policy at the discretion of the Headmistress; this may include, but is not limited to Headmistress’ Report or suspension.

3. Third offence – a pupil will be internally suspended for three days. They will be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses. Parents will be informed. 4. Fourth offence – a pupil will externally suspended for four days. They will return on a Behaviour Contract which will set out the terms required to remain at Downe House and be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses. 5. Further offences will be dealt with in line with the conditions of the Behaviour Contract but are likely to include permanent exclusion.

The Supply of Smoking and Vaping Materials Selling Smoking and Vaping Materials Any pupil who is caught selling tobacco or vape(s) or assisting/ supporting someone to supply tobacco or vape(s) or where there are reasonable grounds that on the balance of probabilities this has occurred, the following sanctions will be applied:

Drugs/Illegal Substances No illegal drugs/substances may be brought into School. The school definition of drugs includes illegal drugs (those categorised as A, B or C) and those substances that are misused to create a so called ‘legal high’. These include Nitrous Oxide, Alkyl Nitrates (Poppers), ketamine, Khat, MKET, volatile substances, prescribed medication as well as controlled drugs, but this is not an exhaustive list. In addition, performance enhancing drugs, as defined by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, fall within the scope of this policy. A pro-active, supportive, and educational approach is taken by the School in order to prevent pupils engaging with illegal drugs/substances. However, where pupils do not engage with such pastoral support and breaches of School policy occur there will be potentially very serious consequences. Any involvement of a Downe House pupil with illegal drugs/substances (including, without limitation, any pupil discovered possessing, supplying, taking or being under the influence of drugs/substances) will constitute an incident of misconduct and will be treated with the utmost severity, in most cases it is likely to lead to permanent exclusion. The School reserves the right to test pupils randomly and at its discretion for the consumption of illegal substances/drugs, as stated in the Terms and Conditions. The decision to test a pupil for the consumption of illegal substances/drugs lies with the Headmistress often on the advice of the Deputy Head, DSL or another senior member of staff. Random drugs testing acts as a deterrent and should be seen as supportive rather than punitive. An approved independent centre/agent would be used to test for substances/drugs. If the School has particular concerns, it may require a search to be carried out of any pupil, their personal possessions or room. This is for the protection of everyone involved.

Please note that in some circumstances pupils may be required to complete a period of community service an alternative sanction to a fine. 1.

First offence – a pupil will be externally suspended for four days. They will return on a Behaviour Contract which will set out the terms required to remain at Downe House and be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses.

2. Further offences will be dealt with in line with the conditions of the Behaviour Contract but are likely to include permanent exclusion. The Provision of Smoking and Vaping Materials Any pupil who is caught providing tobacco or a vape(s) or assisting/supporting someone to supply tobacco or vapes or where there are reasonable grounds that on the balance of probabilities this has occurred, the following sanctions will be applied: Please note that in some circumstances pupils may be required to complete a period of community service an alternative sanction to a fine. 1.

First offence – a pupil will be internally suspended for three days. They will be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses. Parents will be informed.

2. Second offence – a pupil will be externally suspended for four days. They will return on a Behaviour Contract which will set out the terms required to remain at Downe House and be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses.

Internet Social Networking Policy for Pupils Definition of Social Networking Social Networking applications include but are not limited to blogs, online discussion forums, collaborative spaces, media sharing services, micro-blogging applications. Examples include,

3. Further offences will be dealt with in line with the conditions of the Behaviour Contract but are likely to include permanent exclusion. The above also applies to those who are found with smoking or 38

but are not limited to Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, You Tube and can also include instant messaging systems (SMS) such as Whatsapp.

possible for it to be circulated more widely than intended without prior consent or knowledge (even if content is thought to have been deleted or privately shared). 9. Pupils should not post/tag comments, photographs, video, or other content about any member of the community without their express permission. Downe House must not be tagged as a location or mentioned in any Social Media posts, blogs, tweets etc. 10. It is not acceptable to produce any material that is offensive, defamatory, discriminatory, or inappropriate about the School, staff or other pupils. This includes the use of bad language and any form of cyber bullying. 11. Any legal breaches online such as posting nude images would be dealt with by the police and the sanctions would be carried out in line with the law. 12. The School will monitor IT systems and Social Media Sites as is deemed necessary to prevent or detect inappropriate usage. 13. Transcripts or screenshots of Social Networking communications may be used in any disciplinary proceedings. 14. If pupils become aware of misuse of Social Networking sites by another pupil, they should inform their Housemistress/ master, Assistant Head of Section or member of the Leadership Team. 15. Pupils whose conduct breaches this policy in any way may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the School’s Behaviour and Discipline Policy. 16. This policy should be read in conjunction with the School’s, ‘Behaviour Management Policy’ and ‘IS: Acceptable Use Policy’. 17. It should be noted that online behaviour, deemed unsuitable by the Headmistress and in accordance with this policy, may have an impact on a pupil’s future relationship with Downe House. This includes, but is not limited to, references, support from the Foundation (including DH Links) and connections with the Downe House Seniors’ Association.

INTRODUCTION 1. The School recognises that Internet Social Networking sites are a useful way of interacting socially with friends and gathering information. The School accepts that pupils may use Social Networking applications on the Internet. While the School does not wish to discourage acceptable use of such sites on the Internet we expect certain standards of conduct to be observed in order to protect: The safety, welfare, confidentiality and dignity of staff, pupils, their families, and that of the wider community and the reputation of the School. 2. The way in which pupils present themselves on Social Networking sites can have an impact on the public perception of the School and influence the way in which pupils and staff are perceived by the wider community. In their use of Social Networking sites, pupils should be aware that their online behaviour can affect their integrity and dignity. 3. To avoid boundaries becoming blurred and any potential misunderstanding, pupils should not use Social Networking sites to communicate with staff of the School unless using approved School communication channels. 4. This policy applies both on and off site. The following principles apply equally to information or comments posted by pupils from their home, personal, school computers or smart devices. This is irrespective of whether the posts are uploaded during school hours or in personal time. 5. The pupils are responsible for the content they publish on their Social Media platforms, this policy’s primary aim is to provide pupils with guidance to keep them safe and avoid compromising situations which they later regret. PROCEDURE 1. Pupils must not access Social Networking sites for personal use (TikTok etc.) during the academic day, unless otherwise specified by the relevant Assistant Head. 2. Use of any social media should be age appropriate and pupils should not misrepresent their date of birth to gain access to sites such as Instagram. It is not acceptable to clone someone else’s identity or using a false identity to set up a profile. 3. Pupils should not be ‘friends’ with staff on personal Social Networking sites as this could be viewed as a Safeguarding and Child Protection issue. Pupils may however, ‘follow’ or ‘friend’ official School accounts such as, but not limited to, @DHLINKS on twitter. 4. Pupils should remember that their profiles on Social Networking sites could directly link their behaviour outside of School with the reputation of Downe House. Any online conduct that could bring the School into disrepute or cause a negative impact on the school community is forbidden. 5. Online behaviour that could, in the opinion of the School, cause distress or jeopardise the safety, confidentiality, dignity or reputation of others, whether part of the Downe House community or not, is not acceptable. 6. Pupils should take adequate precautions when using Social Networking sites and applications, both in vetting material that could be connected to them (e.g. through their own friendship profiles) and through the appropriate use of security settings. Appropriate security settings should be used to maintain privacy. Social Networking sites which hold personal information and that do not have security settings in place should be avoided. 7. Security settings on Social Networking sites such as Facebook should be reviewed regularly by the pupils as these providers often update their security policies which may allow unauthorised access to pupil profiles without them being fully aware of such changes. 8. Pupils should be aware that once content is shared online it is

INFORMATION SYSTEMS (IS) All those in the school community using the School’s IS network shall adhere to strict guidelines concerning appropriate use of network resources and associated infrastructure.

GUIDELINES ON THE USE OF MOBILE PHONES Mobile phones and other electronic devices should not be used in communal areas where they may disturb others e.g., the dining rooms or when walking around the School site. Remove • Phones are kept by Housestaff all day during the week. • In the evening, after supper, girls may request to use their phone for up to 30 minutes (before 7.45pm). Phones are not allowed to be taken to dormitories.   • Girls may take their phones with them to any away Games matches. • Girls may access phones when out on trips if appropriate (e.g. for safety reasons).   • At the weekends girls may have access to their phones for up to an hour each day.   • Phones and other devices with internet access such as tablets, smart watches and games consoles are handed in by 7.45pm each night.

Lower Fourth • Phones are kept by Housestaff all day during the week.

Will I be charged for weekend activities?

• In the evening, after supper, girls may request to use their phone for up to 30 minutes (before 7.45pm). Phones are allowed to be taken dormitories.

Prior to the start of each term, you will be asked to set a limit on the amount of money to be added to the School bill for weekend activities. Not all activities will incur a cost but all non-curricular trips will carry a charge towards the cost of the outing – transport and tickets etc. In the case of more expensive weekend trips, such as visits to the theatre, parents are asked to give their permission well in advance. Once committed, a ticket will be purchased for your daughter, so if she withdraws, the cost will still need to be met.

• Girls may take their phones with them to any away Games matches. • Girls may access phones when out on trips if appropriate (e.g. for safety reasons).   • At the weekends girls may have access to their phones for up to an hour each day.

Are there opportunities to meet other parents? There are many social events arranged in the course of the year for you to meet informally with other parents both in the House and at main School events. You are always welcome to join us for these!

• Phones are handed in by 8pm each night.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What happens when my daughter’s birthday falls during term time? Birthdays are celebrated in style here at Downe House. Your daughter may organise a party in the Common Room. It is important that she asks permission first though and that Housestaff know who she has invited from other Houses.

ANNUAL WHOLE SCHOOL EVENTS Michaelmas term

House Drama weekend (usually October) The majority of the School is involved in the annual festival of drama. Each Upper School House puts on a play on Sunday either before or after lunch. Parents are welcome to come and watch their daughters perform in their House play and individual houses offer to arrange a social gathering before or after their performance. There is an adjudicator, who announces the results to the School at the end of the competition.

Parents can bring in food or have it delivered from a local supermarket. If you are not able to arrange this or live overseas, the Housestaff will be able to organise party food for your daughter and/or a birthday cake and the charge will simply be put on the School bill. Food brought in must be nut free. Is there provision for Roman Catholic girls to go to Mass? Arrangements are made to escort girls to Mass at the local RC church in Thatcham. If you have any queries regarding this, please contact the School Chaplain. Provisions to attend other places of worship will be supported.

Michaelmas Concert (November) The Concert programme involves as many girls as possible with the orchestras, choirs, ensembles and many individuals taking part. Parents are very welcome to attend this. Carol Services Upper School have off-site Carol Services held towards the end of term in December. Further details will be sent closer to the date

What will my daughter do at weekends and after School? An imaginative programme of activities is organised for each year. Girls in their first year are guided by the Housemistress in their choice of activities in order to maintain a balance between School and House-based activities and excursions. It is our aim that girls should be kept busy and should return home in a healthy but satisfied state of exhaustion at the end of each term!

Summer term

Sports Day (June/July) is held on the Saturday morning of Founder’s Weekend. Parents are encouraged to come and bring picnics to the sports fields. No parking is allowed on the field, so it is advisable to keep hampers light.

Are there activities at other times? Your daughter will be able to take part in a variety of daytime activities too. All girls are strongly encouraged to pursue at least one co-curricular activity. Girls are expected to attend sessions regularly and for at least one academic year, once they have decided to commit themselves. Your daughter’s Housemistress and Academic Tutor will keep an eye on her extra commitments to try to help her not to become overburdened. Enthusiasm sometimes has to be curtailed in the interest of survival, especially if she is learning one or more instruments, having Speech and Drama lessons, or sports coaching.

Founder’s Weekend (June/July) On the final weekend of the Summer term we hold ‘Founder’s Weekend’ in honour of the founder of Downe House, Miss Olive Willis. Tradition is fused with all that the modern day Downe House offers in a full community celebration. The academic departments and boarding houses are open and there are interactive workshops and exhibitions around the School site. Sport, Music, Drama and the Creative Arts all contribute through tournaments, displays, proms, concerts, recitals, productions and a range of exhibits. There are sumptuous afternoon teas for visitors and girls to enjoy, picnics available for you to order in advance, and we normally conclude the weekend with a family Hog Roast BBQ with jazz music to accompany it on the terrace and lawns.

The cost of each activity to the pupil covers the materials used, the hire of equipment and some of the travel expenses, though these are generally subsidised by the School. Some activities, although co-curricular, employ the services of many outside specialists and are therefore regarded as an extra subject. Therefore parental permission is necessary each term before taking up or continuing an activity. These activities may include: Gym Club Debating Society Ballet Science Society Pottery Club Horse riding Tap Dance Pilates (UV upward) Classical Society

In addition to these major events, there are many smaller events to which parents are invited – watching matches, parents’ lunches, family tennis tournaments to name but a few. A full programme of events appears every term in the Key Dates and Information booklet.

Squash Club Lower School Drama Club Polo (Summer Term only) Football Club Sailing (Summer term only) Christian Union Jazz and Modern Dance Fencing Politics Society 40

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Policies All major policies can be found on the Parent Hub. Please ensure you have gone through them. All queries can be directed to the Administration Manager, who will redirect you to the appropriate department.

applicants for admission. Any breach of the Pupils’ Equal Opportunities Policy – by either pupils or employees of the School – is viewed very seriously and disciplinary action may be taken where appropriate. Headmistress – Mrs Emma McKendrick, Downe House, Hermitage Road, Cold Ash, Berkshire, RG18 9JJ

Downe House is committed to providing equal opportunities in both its admissions procedure and its pupils’ day-to-day education. A Pupils’ Equal Opportunities Policy is adhered to, and is supplemented by an additional Disability Policy – both of which are reviewed annually and are freely available on request.

Chair of Governors – Ms Fru Hazlitt, c/o Downe House, Hermitage Road, Cold Ash, Berkshire, RG18 9JJ Details of school policies are available on the School website, www.downehouse.net or email correspondence@downehouse.net for a hard copy on request from the School.

To ensure the effectiveness of these Policies, the School monitors the composition of current pupils attending the School, as well as

NOTES

Index Academic Enrichment

Hair

Academic Progress

Headmistress

30, 35 4, 37, 41

Personal Matters

Piercings

Academic Tutor

19, 22, 29

Health

20, 21

Pocket Money

Activities

19, 21, 23

Health Centre

19, 20

Podcasts

Advice

20, 21, 22

Help

21, 22

Policies

Hermitage

12, 13

Post

Hill

Airport Transfers

Alcohol

36, 38

25, 26 19

14, 15

Posters

Homesickness

Prep

Assistant Head (Lower School)

6, 29

House Drama

23, 40

26, 33

House Profiles

Preparing for Boarding School

Batteries

19, 30

Reading

Resources

Alateen, Alcohol Helpline

BEAT (Helpline)

Bedding

Hygiene

Information Systems

36, 39

24, 26, 40

Independent Listener

Rewards

Independent Schools Inspectorate

Roman Catholic (Mass)

Rules

Instagram

Safes

26, 32

Internet Access

Safeguarding Lead

Carol Services

38, 40

Tablets

Sanctions

36, 37

Cartridge Pen

IT Support

Sauveterre

16, 28

22, 23

Jewellery

26, 30, 35

School Code

35, 36

Keeping in Touch

19, 20

School Concert

Key Dates and Information

21, 40

School Rules

35, 36

School Shop

24, 26, 30

Birthdays (Wacky Bs) Boarding Aims

Bullying

35, 36

Cakes

Calculator

Chair of Governors Chewing Gum Childline

Children’s Commissioner

Code of Conduct

35, 36

Complaints

22, 33

Communication

35, 39

Contact

19, 20, 21, 22

Cyber Bullying

Counsellor (Psychotherapist)

Curriculum (Remove - LIV)

Daily Routine

Darwin

10, 11

Day Girls

19, 21

Dental

Devices

20, 24, 26, 39

Diet

Discipline

35, 38

Dressing-up

Drugs

36, 38

Dry cleaning

e - cigarettes (vapes and jouls)

Eating Disorders Helpline Electrical Items Email Enrichment (Academic) Equal Opportunities Policy Exeats Facebook First Day Formal Occasions

22 24, 26 19, 20, 22 29 36, 39, 41 23, 24, 26 19, 39 19, 20 30

Founder’s Weekend

Fruit

Games/Off Games

General appearance

Glasses

Lacrosse Goggles

Second Language Choices

Languages

Sewing Kit

Smart Mufti

Labels Laptops

26, 33

Laundry

21, 24, 30

Leaving Early/Arriving Late

Smoking Social Media/Networking

26, 30 37, 38, 39 38, 39

Sports Management System (SOCS) 19

Library

Sports (Games) Kit

London Bus

Sports Day

Lost Property

Stamps

26, 31, 32 40 24, 26

Luggage

19, 26

Stationery

Make-up

30, 35

Surgery Times

Meals

19, 20

Taxis

Medical Care

Medication

20, 21, 38

Messages

19, 20

Microsoft Surface

20, 32, 33

Tattoos

24, 35 30

Travel Arrangements

Teddy Bears

Titan

20, 26

Mobile Phone

20, 39

Toiletries

24, 26

Mouthguards (Titan)

20, 26

Torch

Mufti

21, 30

Towels

Mugs

Tuck

Musical Instruments

Tuck Box

26 26 24, 26 26

Name Tags

26, 30, 32

Twitter

Nail varnish

30, 35

Vaping

Nits

Uniform

30-33, 35

Orthodontic

Vaping

36, 37, 38

Palmer Centre

19, 20, 21

Visa

Parent Hub

19, 20, 24

Wakefield Award

Parents’ Meetings Partnership with Parents Passports/Visa

Wacky Bs (Birthdays)

Water Bottles

16, 25

Peer support/Buddies 43

Weekend Activities Weekends

19, 39

16, 25 29 24, 26, 40 26 23, 40 23

Cold Ash, Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 9JJ T: 01635 200286 www.downehouse.net

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