Entry to First, Second and Third Forms

ENTRY TO FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD FORMS

CONTENTS

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW 4

FIRST & SECOND FORMS (YEARS 7 & 8) 6

THIRD FORM (YEAR 9) 8 SPORT 10

PERFORMING ARTS 12 CO-CURRICULUM 14

SPIRITUAL LIFE 18

PASTORAL CARE 20

ADMISSIONS PROCESS 22

WELCOME

Changing schools at any stage is an exciting time but, as we are all aware, can be daunting too. At Downside, we provide a warm welcome to all of our new pupils and parents which means the transition from their current school to Downside is as smooth and as rewarding as possible.

First Form (Year 7) or Second Form (Year 8) entry will provide your son or daughter with the opportunity to develop their intellectual curiosity through the breadth and depth of the academic curriculum available. Assigned to a dedicated tutor, pupils are not only supported in their academic studies, but also in their sports and in our vast array of co-curricular activities on offer which take place on the School’s 500-acre campus.

Third Form (Year 9) entry is a time when we welcome our largest number of pupils to the School from a variety of Prep Schools from around the country or indeed from overseas. It is a time for preparation, development and exploration prior to the two-year GCSE course that starts in the Fourth Form (Year 10).

We see the School’s role as much more than simply preparing pupils to win places at good Universities (although we do plenty of this too!). We are instilling standards for life – giving young people the qualities of character they need to become inspiring leaders, trusted employees and valued friends within the greater community.

I do hope you enjoy reading this booklet and I look forward to welcoming you and your family to see first-hand everything Downside has to offer your son or daughter.

BELEN IGLESIAS

Head of First to Third Forms

AT DOWNSIDE WE WANT EVERY CHILD TO BE CURIOUS ABOUT AND CHALLENGED BY THE CURRICULUM THEY WILL FOLLOW.

The personal growth and change that occurs by being part of a community with Benedictine values at its centre allows every pupil to feel accepted and valued unconditionally. This means that they can grow and develop in confidence to achieve their best and support others to do the same.

We consider that the journey is as important as the destination. If pupils focus on being the best version of themselves every day, the examinations will take care of themselves.

The curriculum is varied and stimulating, and we intend that every pupil feels supported to reach their academic potential. All pupils will study two modern languages and, from the Second Form, Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught separately.

All pupils have dedicated tutor time to help them on their journey at Downside. Each weekday, the First and Second Forms do their homework during one of two sessions, either late afternoon or early evening, in a supervised atmosphere. This also includes day pupils, most of whom choose to stay at school to do this with their friends before going home for the evening. The Third Form do their homework after supper.

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW “

OUR YOUNGEST SON HAS JUST JOINED THE FIRST FORM AND IS NOT ONLY LOVING IT BUT THRIVING TOO. WE FEEL REASSURED THAT OUR THREE BOYS ARE VERY HAPPY AT DOWNSIDE AND CONTINUE TO DEVELOP STRONG PRINCIPLES WHILST FLOURISHING ACADEMICALLY AND ON THE SPORTS PITCHES THANKS TO A CARING AND DEDICATED STAFF.

Current Parent - 2022

FIRST & SECOND FORMS (YEARS 7 & 8)

THE FIRST AND SECOND FORMS EXPERIENCE A CREATIVE CURRICULUM WHICH CONSTANTLY ENGENDERS A LOVE OF LEARNING, AND WHICH NURTURES INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY.

We want our younger pupils to master skills in numeracy and literacy whilst being confident enough to be creative and to take calculated risks. We build resilience and support pupils’ well-being whilst providing them with increasing opportunities for independent learning and thought.

The programme of study for the First and Second Forms contains a broad and balanced range of subjects providing them with a secure basis upon which to progress to GCSE.

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Pupils will study English, Mathematics, Science, Religious Studies, Art, Drama, Music, Latin, French, German, Spanish, Geography, History, Computer Science, Design Technology, Physical Education and Personal, Social and Health Education.

It is not a requirement for Second Form pupils to complete the Common Entrance Examinations to progress into our Third Form.

PUPILS ARE ENTHUSIASTIC AND HIGHLY MOTIVATED LEARNERS… A CLEAR AND POSITIVE ATTITUDE TO LEARNING PERMEATES THE WHOLE SCHOOL, ENABLED BY EXCELLENT RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN STAFF AND PUPILS.

ISI Report

THIRD FORM (YEAR 9)

THE THIRD FORM IS A REALLY EXCITING AND DIVERSE YEAR. PUPILS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THE BREADTH OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE AT DOWNSIDE.

This is a time for pupils to hone their skills and identify where their personal strengths lie. This is vital in helping them choose wisely what subjects they want to continue studying for their GCSEs.

In this year the curriculum is focused on developing the techniques and skills required for GCSEs. The curriculum opportunities are increased, and pupils will also have the option of studying Classical Greek.

There are also opportunities to broaden their knowledge beyond the curriculum in the numerous academic clubs and societies. They will, as always, be guided by their teachers and tutors who have a detailed knowledge of every pupil in their classes and who are dedicated to ensuring all pupils achieve their maximum potential.

THIS IS MY 3RD YEAR AT DOWNSIDE, I HAVE GOT A SPORT SCHOLARSHIP THIS YEAR.I AM A BOARDER AND REALLY ENJOY WEEKEND ACTIVITIES, AND I AM PART OF THE SCHOLA CANTOURM, WHICH IS THE SCHOOL CHOIR. MY FAVOURITE PART OF DOWNSIDE IS THE SPACE AND MY FAVOURITE SPORT IS RUGBY.

Third Form Pupil - 2022

SPORT

THE DOWNSIDE SPORT DEVELOPMENT PHILOSOPHY IS BASED ON A POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE AND EXCEPTIONAL WORK ETHIC. OUR ETHOS IS CENTRED ON THE VALUES OF DISCIPLINE, HUMILITY AND STEWARDSHIP.

Our aim is to coach the whole child to ensure that they find a sport in which they can participate, excel at and learn the values of being part of a team. We believe that physical activity plays an important role in your child’s development.

‘Sport for All’ is a central part of the School’s philosophy as is the desire for every pupil to enjoy physical activity and achieve their own personal best.

Downside has some 100 acres of playing fields on campus including Cricket and Rugby pitches, a running track, an allweather Hockey Astroturf pitch and twelve Tennis and Netball courts.

There is a swimming pool and sports hall complex which includes fitness rooms and facilities for indoor sports, as well as a gymnasium and glass-backed squash courts. Mendip, Orchardleigh and Farrington golf clubs are nearby and there are local facilities for fishing, riding and watersports.

Whilst our curriculum distinguishes between Physical Education and Sport, the notion of excellence permeates throughout. In the Michaelmas Term, the main sport for boys is Rugby and, for girls, Hockey. In the Lent Term the boys move to Hockey and the girls to Netball. In the Summer Term Cricket is the main sport for boys and Tennis for girls. All pupils also take Athletics in the Summer Term.

Outside of timetabled sports and Physical Education lessons, there are over 40 other sports and games options for pupils to choose from including Football, Swimming, Archery, Fencing, Paddleboard, Kayaking, Badminton, Squash, Riding and Cross Country. Cricket, Golf and Rugby are also open to both girls and boys. More details on our co-curriculum can be found on pages 14-17.

THE SPORT IS REALLY GOOD HERE. I HAVE LEARNT SO MUCH IN A SHORT SPACE OF TIME AND THE COACHES ARE VERY HELPFUL.

Second Form Pupil - 2022

PERFORMING ARTS

There are opportunities for all ages and levels of ability, supported by first-class tuition and outstanding facilities including the magnificent Downside Abbey Church, a Mac suite dedicated to Music and a Performing Arts Centre which houses a recording studio and a 400-seat theatre.

Downside is renowned for the quality of its music, and your child will feel inspired with opportunities to listen and participate in music throughout the week. One-to-one Music lessons are provided across a range of instruments enabling your child to focus on the music that they enjoy and excel at.

Outside of timetabled lessons, there are extensive opportunities to get involved with Music at Downside including Choir, Drum Line, String Ensemble, Concert Band and Orchestra. Founded over a century ago, Downside’s Schola Cantorum is the oldest Roman Catholic school choir in the United Kingdom.

Younger pupils regularly perform on equal terms with our older, more experienced pupils and invited professionals. First to Third Form pupils have their own annual production with opportunities for involvement as a principal, in the chorus, band or backstage. The annual inter-House music competition is a fiercely fought contest involving everyone in the fun!

More details of our co-curriculum programme can be found on pages 14-17.

Second Form Pupil - 2022

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I WAS WELCOMED BY MY ROOMMATES WHO ARE MY FRIENDS TO THIS DAY. IT HAS BEEN A GOOD EXPERIENCE AND THE COMMUNITY IS WELCOMING AND THE SPORTS AND LESSONS ARE AMAZING.

CO-CURRICULUM

EVERY FIRE IS STARTED WITH A SINGLE SPARK. THAT SINGLE SPARK CAN COME FROM ANYWHERE – AND LEAD YOU ANYWHERE.

Taking advantage of one of our exciting co-curricular activities could take your child on a journey that defines the rest of their life. It might help them to create new friendships, perfect a new skill and improve their self-confidence. Pupils benefit greatly from being able to try their hand at anything, and are encouraged to do so.

Across the School we provide over 100 co-curricular activities to complement our academic curriculum. First to Third Form pupils are offered the majority of these and have the opportunity to choose from the entire range as they progress through the School.

Activities include:

Adventure & Outdoor Education : options include kayaking, archery, paddleboard, Junior Explorers, Shooting Club, Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award (from 14 years of age), caving and sailing

Art, Design & Technology : options include Art, Design, sewing, Robotics Club and Digital Leaders Group*

Debate & Discussion : Junior Abingdon Debating Society and various academic clubs

Lifestyle : options include Book Club, Conservation Club, Poetry Club, Chess Club and the School Magazine

Performing Arts & Media : options include ballet, choir, drama, various different bands, Photography Club, David Attenborough Documentary Club and the School Radio

Service & Outreach : options include CCF (from the Third Form), Environmental Group, charities and community service

Sports & Games : options include croquet, fencing, athletic development, squash, Laser Quest, swimming, basketball and Warhammer Club.

* We are a Childnet Digital Leaders accredited school with a growing team of pupils who serve the community (both in school and by doing outreach activities). We are also progressing towards the 360Safe Online Safety Mark.

CCF

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) has always been an integral part of life at Downside. It exists to enable the development of personal responsibility, leadership and self-discipline.

All Third Form (aged 13+) pupils are able to experience the full range of CCF activities during the academic year. At the end of the Third Form, pupils can elect to move onto the Royal Navy or Army section in their senior years. One full afternoon per week is allocated to CCF activities, with additional camps, expeditions and training sessions scheduled throughout the year. The CCF also has a band who lead the Bath Remembrance Parade each year.

Weekends

Weekends are busy and purposeful at Downside, where pupils are engaged in a wide variety of co-curricular options: clubs, games, socials and trips, alongside non-co-curricular activities such as sporting fixtures and Sunday Mass. We welcome Day pupils to join our Sunday activities, if they wish to spend time with their friends.

Trips

First to Third Form pupils enjoy a wide variety of trips including retreats, pilgrimages and outdoor learning. In the Michaelmas Term, as part of their welcome to the School, the First and Second Forms visit the Cotswolds for a team-building bushcraft expedition. In the Summer Term, the Third Form travel to Skern Lodge in Devon for a weekend of outdoor learning and fun.

ISI Report

THE SCHOOL HELPS TO DEVELOP THE CHARACTER AND CONFIDENCE OF YOUNG PEOPLE THROUGH SPORT AND EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

SPIRITUAL LIFE

DOWNSIDE HAS A SHARED SENSE OF SPIRITUAL IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY. ITS VISION, AS A CATHOLIC AND BENEDICTINE SCHOOL WITH CHRIST AT ITS CENTRE, IS TO BE A BRIGHT LIGHT IN EDUCATION AND TO INSPIRE SERVICE IN OUR WORLD.

IN HIS RULE, ST BENEDICT TELLS US THAT GUESTS SHOULD BE WELCOMED AND LOOKED AFTER AS IF THEY WERE CHRIST. THIS A REMINDER TO ALL OF US THAT WE SHOULD AIM TO TREAT AND LOOK AFTER EACH OTHER WITH REVERENCE, LOVE AND RESPECT. IT IS OUR AIM TO INSTIL IN PUPILS VALUES OF REVERENCE, LOVE AND RESPECT.

In his Rule, St Benedict tells us that the sick and guests should be welcomed and looked after as if they were Christ. This a reminder to all of us that we should aim to treat and look after all with reverence, love and respect.

We aim to assist pupils in all year groups to develop a personal relationship with Christ so that they will be bright lights, reaching out with love and friendship to all those around them. In order to achieve this, all pupils gather to pray at different times of the day, for example at morning and evening assemblies when prayers are said in Houses. At lunchtime, when pupils gather with their tutor, the short session commences with the saying of the Angelus. The Angelus is an ancient prayer of the Church that reminds us that the Son of God became a human being for our salvation. Many of its words are taken from the moment the Angel Gabriel came to Mary at the Annunciation and asked her to be the mother of Jesus.

It is our aim to assist pupils in all year groups to develop a personal relationship with Christ so that they will be bright lights, reaching out with love and friendship to all those around them. In order to achieve this all pupils gather to pray at different times of the day, for example at the start and finish of each day when prayers are said in House groups. At lunchtime pupils gather with their tutor, the short session commences with the saying of the Angelus. The Angelus is an ancient prayer of the Church that reminds us that the Son of God became a human being for our salvation. Many of its words are taken from the moment the Angel Gabriel came to Mary at the Annunciation and asked her to be the Mother of Jesus.

All pupils explore faith in their Religious Studies Classes. Within the curriculum are Chaplaincy sessions led by our Lay Chaplain. These sessions focus on prayer, Lectio Divina, the Liturgical year, the traditional prayers of the Rosary and the Stations of the Cross, and visits to the Abbey Church.

All pupils explore faith in their Religious Studies classes and in the weekly Chaplaincy period with the Chaplaincy Team and their tutor. This weekly gathering focuses on prayer, Lectio Divina, the liturgical year, the traditional prayers of the Rosary and the Stations of the Cross, and visits to the Abbey Church.

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At the heart of our spiritual life is Sunday Mass in the Abbey Church that is attended by all pupils. In addition, all Houses have their own termly Mass and reconciliation service. Pupils are instructed for the reception of the sacraments: Baptism, Confession, Holy Communion and Confirmation.

At the heart of our spiritual life is Sunday Mass in the Abbey Church, celebrated by our Priest Chaplain and attended by all pupils. In addition, all Houses have their own termly Mass and reconciliation service. Weekday Mass, Rosary, Adoration and Confessions are all optionally available at set moments each week. Pupils are instructed for the reception of the sacraments: Baptism, Confession, Holy Communion and Confirmation. During the year, all pupils enjoy a day retreat with a different theme for each year group: First Form – ‘Friendship in Christ’, Second Form – ‘Voices and Listening’, Third Form –‘Building Community’ inspired by the Rule of St Benedict.

During the year, all pupils enjoy a day retreat with a different theme for each year group: First Form – ‘friendship in Christ’, Second Form – ‘voices and listening’, Third Form – the Rule of St Benedict, the Gospel.

The School’s Chaplaincy is situated in the Main Hall. The St Scholastica Community who work in the Chaplaincy welcome pupils of all ages to call in at any time to talk and pray with them. There is also a separate Chaplains’ office where the School chaplains work and meet with pupils.

The St Scholastica Community are based in the main hall; they welcome pupils of all ages to call in at any time to talk and pray with them. An additional Chaplains’ office provides a further place of encounter with Fr Michael or Mr Andrewartha.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SPIRITUAL AND MORAL UNDERSTANDING ARE EVIDENT IN PUPILS OF ALL BELIEFS OR NONE IN RESPONSE TO THE SCHOOL’S BENEDICTINE ETHOS. ISI Report

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SPIRITUAL AND MORAL UNDERSTANDING ARE EVIDENT IN PUPILS OF ALL BELIEFS OR NONE IN RESPONSE TO THE SCHOOL’S BENEDICTINE ETHOS. ISI Report

PASTORAL CARE

AT DOWNSIDE WE ARE FULLY COMMITTED TO PROVIDING THE BEST POSSIBLE PASTORAL CARE FOR EACH CHILD.

The House communities are at the heart of the School and they are where lasting friendships are made and memories forged. One of our Benedictine values is ‘Welcome’ and new pupils often comment that they are made to feel instantly at home.

All First, Second and Third Form boys enter Powell House. This means that the boys get to know each other before heading off to their senior Houses – Barlow, Roberts or Smythe – in the Fourth Form. The First and Second Forms have a special boarding area and recreation room in the House and the Third Form pupils have a spacious Day Room complete with table tennis, table football and a big screen for film nights.

All girls join either Isabella or Caverel House, where pupils from First Form to Upper Sixth live side by side. The girls have spacious rooms on one floor and even have their own prefect who lives on the corridor and has the role of ‘big sister’. All girls are able to socialise together in both Houses during their free time.

Each House has a dedicated House Master or House Mistress with a residential assistant. Every pupil has a House-based tutor who they will see every day and one evening a week to support every aspect of school life. The House Parents are in House every day to make sure everyone is well looked after and happy, especially at snack time!

The Health Centre provides 24-hour care and each House has a dedicated health care practitioner who will get to know each pupil and ensure that they are healthy and know how to look after their mental and physical well-being.

The Houses always have plenty of activities, competitions and social events at weekends and there are numerous trips. There are chances for responsibility and leadership in each year group throughout the School and everyone is encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, enjoy new challenges and embrace a growth mindset.

PUPILS DEVELOP STRONGLY AS INDIVIDUALS, ENABLED BY THE VERY HIGH LEVELS OF PASTORAL CARE THEY RECEIVE, SUPPORTED IN PARTICULAR BY SYSTEMATIC AND SUCCESSFUL ARRANGEMENTS TO ENSURE THEIR WELFARE. ISI Report

ADMISSIONS PROCESS

First to Third Form admission to the School is normally at 11+ for the First Form (Year 7) or, at 13+ for the Third Form (Year 9).

Places occasionally become available for boys and girls for admission at 12+ into the Second Form (Year 8).

VISITING DOWNSIDE

We would love to welcome you to Downside to enable you to learn more about our School, giving you an opportunity to meet the community who live, study and work here. You can choose from a private visit (in person or online) or come to one of our Open Mornings which are held throughout the year.

Following your visit, if you wish to apply for a place at the School we would ask that you register your child for entry by completing our registration form. Following registration, we invite all candidates to complete entrance assessments and attend an interview.

TASTER DAYS

Your child can also experience what a real day at Downside is like, from attending academic lessons, tutor time and meals to taking part in sporting and co-curricular activities.

REGISTRATION & ASSESSMENT: FOR FIRST FORM (YEAR 7)

Registration is advised at least one year ahead of the start date. Pupils will be invited to an assessment day in January in the year of entry where they will be required to complete an online CAT assessment and attend an interview. A reference will also be sought from the pupil’s current school.

REGISTRATION & ASSESSMENT: FOR SECOND FORM (YEAR 8)

Registration for Second Form entry is accepted in the year of entry, or earlier if possible. Pupils will be asked to complete an online CAT assessment and attend an interview. A reference will also be sought from the pupil’s current school.

REGISTRATION & ASSESSMENT: FOR THIRD FORM (YEAR 9)

Registration is advised at least two years ahead of the start date. Pupils will be asked to complete an online CAT assessment. Both of these can be completed at a pupil’s current school. A reference will also be sought from their current school. Pupils will be asked to complete an online CAT assessment. Both of these can be completed at a pupil’s current school.

For pupils joining us whose first language is not English, we will also ask them to complete an English assessment.

SCHOLARSHIPS & BURSARIES

Downside offers a number of scholarships for pupils hoping to join the School at 11+ and 13+. Financial support, through means-tested bursary, is open to parents who are able to demonstrate, through application, that they could not otherwise send their child to the School.

We believe a scholarship should not only be a recognition of your child’s achievements to date but also their potential, and a bursary should be there as financial support.

DOWNSIDE’S ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE AIMS TO ENSURE THAT BOYS AND GIRLS WHO JOIN THE SCHOOL ARE ABLE TO BE HAPPY, SUCCESSFUL AND SECURE WITHIN ITS ACADEMIC, CULTURAL, PASTORAL AND SPIRITUAL ENVIRONMENT, WHETHER THEY ARE BOARDERS OR DAY PUPILS.

STRATTON-ON-THE-FOSSE, RADSTOCK, BATH BA3 4RJ admissions@downside.co.uk www.downside.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1761 235103