Isabella House Handbook 2025

house booklet

isabella

downside_isabella

contents page 3 House Staff page 4 House Information page 6 Life as a day pupil in Isabella page 7-11 House routines and arrangements page 12 Pupil registration and sign out page 13 Prep (Homework) page 14 Exeat page 15-16 Consequences page 17 Uniform, Clothing & Packing list page 18 Sport equipment page 19 What the Isabella girls say page 21 Isabella House A - Z

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house staff housemistress

Ms A Ball

aball@downside.co.uk

assistant housemistress

Mrs L Packer

lpacker@downside.co.uk

house mothers

Miss R Ford Mrs Z St Clair

rford@downside.co.uk zstclair@downside.co.uk

house tutors

Mr N Barrett

Mrs T Bremer

nabrrett@downside.co.uk lpacker@downside.co.uk espurling@downside.co.uk krandell@downside.co.uk ewilliams@downside.co.uk tbremer@downside.co.uk

Miss A Bennett

abennett@downside.co.uk

Mrs L Packer Mrs E Spurling Mrs K Randell Mrs E Williams house assistant

01761 235143

house phone number

Our tutors are here to help support pupils academically in the House, but they also take part in prep duties, supporting the pupils, getting to know them, giving advice and help, and getting stuck into House events. They also take a trip out with their tutees every year and are vital in supporting the retreats and the spiritual life of the House.

Our cleaning staff, Hayley and Louise are also part of our team, and care for the pupils.

We are all very grateful for what they do for us.

In the normal course of events either the House Mistress or the Assistant House Mistress is on duty at any given time. One of the House Mothers is available in the House each day from Monday to Saturday between the hours of 08.00 and 18.00. Each evening from Monday to Friday one of the House Tutors is on duty during prep. If there is an emergency during the night, pupils can ring the doorbell of the member of staff on duty.

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house information Isabella is a boarding and day House for girls aged 11 to 18.

It is named after Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia of Spain and Portugal who gave permission for the establishment of the English Benedictine community of St Gregory’s, Douai, in 1606, and promised it protection.

Isabella House embodies Benedictine values in everything that it does. It is a caring and supportive community, where everyone looks after each other and contributes to making positive relationships and bonds across the year groups, ages and nationalities. It is a close-knit community made up of girls of all ages and nationalities, but everyone is respected and celebrated for their own uniqueness.

Kindness, support and humility are at the heart of everything thing that we do as a House.

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life as a day pupil in isabella Day pupils will usually have work areas but will not necessarily have their own room.

The timetable for day pupils ends at 18.00 but pupils may stay for supper and prep if they wish. There is some availability to stay overnight but places are extremely limited and need to be booked in advance. If pupils do stay overnight, then a charge will be made to their school account - parents should phone or email a member of House staff to arrange this. If required to attend a school function or asked to carry out particular duties on behalf of the House or School, this charge may be waived.

Day pupils should arrive at school each day by 08.15 in order to attend House Assembly where registration occurs.

If pupils arrive late at school, for whatever reason, please check in with one of the House Staff.

Pupils must sign out when they leave the school every day and keep their workspace tidy.

In case of illness stopping a day pupil from attending School, please kindly call the House before 08.20 on the House Office number (01761 235143) or email the House Mistress.

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house routines and arrangements Wake Up Each morning the House Mistress or the Assistant House Mistress will wake pupils, though everyone should set their own alarm. Every member of the House is expected to be out of bed and get ready for the day in a timely manner and should attend breakfast, which is served in the Main Refectory.

Assemblies and Check-Ins House Assemblies are multi-functional: they are a time when the House community comes together at the start of the day with a short prayer, and the opportunity for information to be shared. Every member of the House must be present at every House Assembly unless exempt by the House Mistress or Assistant House Mistress.

Periodically, a morning House Assembly will be replaced by a School Assembly, which will take place in the Theatre with pupils seated by House.

The Half During the Half (11.05 - 11.35), a member of the House Staff will be available in the House Office to see to any issues that have arisen during the morning.

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first - second form weekdays

saturday

sunday

Wake up check

07.00

07.30

08.30

Breakfast

07.30

07.45

08.45

House Assembly

08.20

08.50

Mass 10.00

Half (House Common Room)

11.05

Registration with Form Tutor

13.45

Tea

15.10

Prep/Afternoon activities

17.00-18.00

Evening registration

18.50

Evening activities for boarders/prep

19.00-20.00

Hot drinks, Toast & get ready for bed

Brunch 11.00

17.00-18.00

17.00-18.00

21.00

21.00

21.15

20.30

20.00

Weekend check in Assembly

20.30

In dormitory by

20.45

Silent Reading

20.45-21.00

Main Lights out

21.00

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20.45 21.30

20.45-21.00

third form

weekdays

saturday

sunday

Wake up check

07.10

07.30

08.30

Breakfast

07.30

07.45

08.45

House Assembly

08.20

08.50

Mass 10.00

Half in House

11.05

11.05

Registration with Form Tutor

13.45

13.45

Brunch 11.00

Evening registration

19.00

17.00-18.00

17.00-18.00

Get ready for Prep

19.05

21.00

21.00

Prep

19.15-20.30

Weekend check in Assembly

21.00

In house by

21.00

21.00

21.00

In dormitory by

21.15

21.45

21.15

Main Lights out

21.30

22.30

21.30

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fourth,fifth & sixth form

weekdays

saturday

sunday

Wake up check

07.15

07.30

08.30

Breakfast

07.30

07.45

08.45

House Assembly

08.20

08.50

Mass 10.00

Half in House

11.05

11.05

Registration with Form Tutor

13.45

13.45

Brunch 11.00

Evening registration

19.15

17.00-18.00

17.00-18.00

Get ready for Prep

19.20

21.00

21.00

Prep

19.30-21.00

Weekend check in Assembly

21.00

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latest time for weekdays saturday sunday fourth form

fifth form

lower sixth

upper sixth

Return to House Bed time

21.30 21.45

21.30 22.15

21.30

Lights Out

22.00

22.30

22.00

Return to House

21.45

21.45

21.45

Bed time

22.00

22.30

22.00

Lights Out

22.15

22.45

22.15

Return to House

22.00

22.00

22.00

Bed time

22.15

22.45

22.15

Lights Out

22.30

23.00

22.30

Return to House

22.00

22.00

22.00

Bed time

22.30

23.00

22.30

Lights Out

22.45

23.15

22.45

21.45

Telephones, laptops and devices are not to be used after Lights Out though it is permissible to listen to music through headphones for a short time.

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pupil registration and sign out All pupils will meet with their Tutor at tutor time, and this is when they will register at 13.45 each day. It is an opportunity for Tutors and Tutees to catch up, discuss their studies, activity choices and the weekend programme.

At the end of each day, every day pupil must sign out with a member of House Staff (this is particularly important in the case of fire drills). Any day pupils coming back into School after they have signed out, or coming in on a Sunday, should let the duty member of staff know and inform staff when they are leaving.

The School day ends at 17.00 Monday - Friday and after any commitment to the activity and sporting programme has been honoured on Saturday afternoon.

If there is a need for a pupil to be absent during the working week, for example for a dental appointment, or to attend a University Open Day, parents are asked to email a request for absence to the House Mistress with as much advance notice as possible.

Any day pupil arriving late for registration either in the morning, or in the afternoon, must report immediately to the House Staff.

All boarding and day pupils must attend set registration times.

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prep (homework) On weekdays (Monday to Friday) every member of the Fourth - Sixth Form must be in their own area/room at 19.20 to get themselves ready for prep, which starts at 19.30 and ends at 21.00. Every member of Third Form must be in their rooms from 19.05. This is a period of quiet study. Once prep has begun it should not be necessary to move around the House. It may be desirable to occasionally ask questions of another pupil in the House or a member of staff, but pupils should bear in mind that everyone has work that needs to be done. If all prep has been completed to an acceptable standard, it is permissible to do some general reading or to seek permission to commit to individual music practice if appropriate.

However, it is not permissible to watch TV, play computer games or use social media.

Fourth Form and Fifth Form pupils will work in their rooms. Lower & Upper Sixth may work in their own rooms or in the Petre Library.

Anyone leaving the House must sign out of the House and sign back in on their return. Pupils are not usually allowed to work together during prep and pupils from other Houses are not allowed into the House without the permission of a member of staff. Pupils leaving the House to work elsewhere must do so at 19.25.

Prep is dedicated quiet time. To ensure that pupils are able to keep on task we ask that they do not make (or receive) any telephone calls or engage in messaging or social media during these times.

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exeat There are exeat weekends in the Michaelmas term for ALL pupils and two exeat weekends in the Lent term, for First and Second Form (years 7 & 8) only. There are no exeats in the Summer term.

All international pupils are welcome to join the residential programme for the Exeat weekends. Our focus is on providing an environment in which our pupils feel supported and safe whilst having fun and enjoying their short break from School.

There will be a variety of off-site trips offered which may include trips to Bath, Bristol, cinema, bowling, Stonehenge and other local tourist attractions. Parents will need to complete a booking form to reserve a place on the residential programme, which will be charged to their school bill.

Michaelmas Term – Whole School Exeat Friday 26 September 2025 – Sunday 28 September 2025 Friday 21 November 2025 – Sunday 23 November 2025 First and Second Form Exeat / Year 7 and 8 ONLY Friday 23 January 2026 – Sunday 25 January 2026 Friday 13 March 2026 – Sunday 15 March 2026

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consequences Pupils should try and ensure that they do not put themselves in a position where sanctions will need to be applied. Examples of situations and possible sanctions that might be applied in the House include: •

There may be a requirement to go to bed early for poor behavour at bedtime.

•

Absence from class, games or activities or any other School commitment without good reason will incur an automatic Saturday Detention, as will playing ball games in the confines of the House. If there is a foreseeable reason why a commitment needs to be missed, the appropriate member of staff should be consulted in advance. If a pupil is unable to take part in their nominated games activity due to injury, they must ensure that they are listed on the off games list and should, if appropriate, seek permission to attend an alternative activity.

•

If a pupil is found out of bounds without permission, they can expect to be gated for the whole of the following weekend and will be required to sign with a member of staff hourly and remain in regulation uniform.

•

Any pupil failing to sign in and out of the House at the appropriate times is likely to be given a Pupil Gating Card, which requires them to sign in with a member of House Staff at various times during the School Day.

•

Gating can be a School or House sanction. If pupils are House gated, they are required to remain in the House during their free time and after prep. They will also have to sign in at regular intervals with a member of House staff. For further information about School gating, please see the School Handbook.

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•

Serious infractions of House or School Rules are likely to result in a one or two hour detention on Saturday evening starting at 19.00.

•

Academic Merits are awarded for good work and effort. Pastoral Merits are awarded for making a difference in house. Academic de-merits can be given by academic staff for failure to complete work to an expected standard or incomplete prep. Pastoral de-merits are awarded for poor behaviour in House or failure to respect the House or the household community. De-merits are taken seriously and may result in further disciplinary action.

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UNIFORM You will already have received a uniform list from the School Shop. Please refer to our website for all uniform requirements and orders www.downside.co.uk/shop.

CLOTHING & PACKING LIST *Click here to view items that may be bought from the School Shop.

Evening & Weekend clothing

Miscellaneous

Bring a varitey of weather appropriate home clothes that can be worn in the evenings (after 5pm) and at the weekend.

• • • • •

Bedding

Small backpack or shoulder bag Adapters/converters for UK plugs Small room decorations Bedside light/lamp Alarm clock

• Pillow • Duvet (single)* • Duvet covers x2 • Pillow cases x2 The School will supply a bottom sheet

Please ensure all items are named.

For all School uniform and School sports kit click here.

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sport equipment Hockey Mouthguards are essential. Astro trainers are preferred to trainers as they have better grip.

Cricket (Optional) The School provides helmets and other batting equipment.

Tennis We have plenty of tennis courts, and can arrange lessons throughout the year.

Pupils may wish to bring their own tennis racket.

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what the isabella girls say “The House is bright and spacious and we all appreciate that it is separate from the main school (even when it is raining!).”

“The House kitchen – we have the best food and have amazing feasts and celebrations such as birthdays, Chinese New Year, St David’s Day, or just because we need cheering up.”

“The Isabella House staff always look after us so well.”

“Our “House at Home” annual fete is the most fun event in the year, and we enjoy organising it and then seeing everyone enjoy the day so much.”

“We are encouraged and supported to be the best that we can be in everything from academic work, sports, drama, public speaking etc.”

“There are lots of opportunities and events organised to bond across the year groups.

We are encouraged and supported to have high standards in everything from our appearance to our work, which helps us to be the best we can now and for the future.”

“We feel we will always be a part of Isabella and love to see the connection when old girls come back to visit.”

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isabella house a to z Please see ‘The School Rules’ in the Pupil Handbook for all official regulations.

Abbey Church The services that take place in the Abbey Church are a very important part of the spiritual life of Downside. Pupils are expected to respect others people’s beliefs and the importance that they attach to the Abbey Church, whether or not they believe in the Christian faith. Respect is shown in being on time for Mass and other services, not whispering and sitting sensibly. Although it is not possible for pupils to visit the Abbey Church on their own, they may go to confession on Sunday morning before Mass. The Old Chapel is always available for prayer if they wish to be pray privately and in a quiet place.

Academic matters Progress will be monitored by pupil's Tutor. Pupils should make every effort to ensure that your work is done to a good standard and presented on time. Tutors will discuss reports with pupils. If reports are unsatisfactory, pupils can expect to be put on Work Report so that their work can be monitored on a daily or weekly basis. If it continues to be less than satisfactory, there will be a meeting with a pupils Tutor, House Mistress and the relevant member of the Academic Leadership Team (ALT). Parents will be informed.

Activities/SOCS There are numerous activities offered throughout the week and everyone is expected to make the most of every opportunity on offer. At the start of each term, Tutors will meet all pupils to discuss their activity choices. All pupils will choose their own activity programme using the SOCS app (pupils will be provided with their log in but should ensure it is working and if necessary speak to their Tutor if there is a problem with the app.) All pupils should ensure they are familiar with using the app and use it to view and sign up to activities. First and Second Form boarders will have their own evening activity programme after supper, whilst older pupils will be in prep.

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Alcohol It is illegal for Downside to serve any alcohol to pupils under the age of 18, except in the case where Sixth Form students are being served wine or beer with a full sit-down meal in the presence of an adult. Pupils must not have alcohol in their possession. Please see the School Behaviour Policy regarding alcohol consumption in School.

Assemblies We hold House Assemblies in the Common Room every morning at 08.20. In the evening at 20.30 (First Form) and 21.00 (Fourth-Sixth Form). It is important that everyone arrive on time for Assemblies. At weekends, there is no House Assembly, however pupils are expected to check-in with a member of staff at 21.00 and before going to bed. School Assembly takes place in the Theatre.

Pupils must sit in the area allocated by House. Hymn Practice is held every Friday afternoon in the Abbey Church. The end of Hymn Practice is usually treated as a brief whole-school Assembly.

Audio equipment This should only be played at levels that do not disturb others; personal speakers should not be used in House or the surrounding areas. Music must not be audible during lesson time and prep, nor in the evening after 21.00.

Bounds We are fortunate to have beautiful grounds at Downside. It is important that pupils are aware of where they are allowed to enter. Pupils should ensure that they are familiar with the bounds information. At weekends, Third, Fourth and Fifth form pupils may visit Chilcompton with staff authorisation and a pass.

Authorisation will not be given if they are gated. Sixth Formers may visit Chilcompton at set times and must sign out and in with a member of staff. Pupils may not visit the home of another pupil without permission, even if it falls within bounds.

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Buddy All new pupils will be allocated a ‘buddy’ who will be responsible for looking out for them and helping them find their way around the School in the first couple of weeks.

Bath/Bristol A Sunday bus runs to either Bath or Bristol, accompanied by members of teaching staff, which can be booked during the week using SOCS. Day trips are opportunities to enjoy the sights of a local city, have lunch out with friends or to go shopping. Permission may be refused if prep is overdue, poor behaviour in School that week, or evidence of poor behaviour on a previous trip.

Bed time Downside is a very busy school and sleep is very important for physical and mental wellbeing. Bedtimes are really important and we ask all members of the House to respect these for everyone's wellbeing.

Bedrooms Pupils have their own notice board in their bedroom, please bring family photos or any decorations that will fit on a board to brighten up their room. It is recommended that pupils bring a bedside light/lamp and an alarm clock. Pupils must bring their own pillow, pillowcase, duvet and duvet cover. The school will provide a fitted bottom sheet but many pupils prefer to bring their own, which we fully understand. Please make sure you label all items.

Breakfast Breakfast is served in the Refectory (the Ref) Monday - Friday from 07.30 to 08.10 Saturday from 7.45 to 8.10 and Sunday from 08.30 to 09.00. On weekdays House Mothers will check pupils from First - Fifth Form are going to breakfast by conducting a register between 07.45 and 08.00. Casual clothes may be worn to brunch on Sundays, but pupils will need to be in regulation uniform for Mass at 10.00.

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Cars Pupils may not enter a car driven by anyone under the age of 25 except with parents' written permission. Pupils may only bring cars to School with permission from the Deputy Head. Pupils may not enter a car belonging to another pupil. Driving lessons should not clash with any School or House commitments and the House Staff must give permission in advance.

Chaplains The Chaplaincy team is led by Father Michael and Mr Andrewartha. A Chaplain visits the House in the evening on a rota system, when they will lead the evening House assembly. Chaplains can usually be found in the Chaplaincy Centre in the Court of Arches.

All pupils are encouraged to take the opportunities they are offered to grow spiritually through prayer, Lectio Divina, Mass and receiving the Sacraments.

Anyone who wishes to become a Catholic (or to be confirmed) should speak to a Chaplain in order to discuss this.

Confession is heard on Sunday mornings in the Abbey Church confessionals (turn right as you enter the Church), from 09.00-09.30, during House Masses and at other times on request.

Junior and Third Form pupils have a regular Chaplaincy period timetabled.

Cleaning The cleaning staff are important and well-respected members of our House community. Beds are to be made before the working day begins and rooms tidied.

Pupils sink area must be kept clear at all times. Pupils must also open their window and prop open their door before they leave for the day.

Pupils will be assigned a day when they must change their bedding. Pupils rooms will be cleaned daily and will be deep cleaned during School holidays, pupils will need to ensure that all their possessions are cleared away.

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You will be assigned a day when you must change your bedding.Your room will be cleaned daily. Your room will be deep cleaned during School holidays and you will need to ensure that all your possessions are cleared away.

Co-education As a co-educational School we seek to encourage friendships between boys and girls. Relationships between boys and girls can be one of the great assets of a co-educational environment. Romances are to be avoided at School.

Boys may come into Isabella House with express permission from House Staff after 5pm. Inappropriate displays of affection in public are actively discouraged and such displays may have disciplinary consequences. Any boy found in a girl’s bedroom (or vice versa) can expect both pupils to be temporarily or permanently excluded from School. Please click here to see the School’s Behaviour Policy regarding inappropriate relationships.

Community Life At Downside pupils will make friends with people of all ages. Pupils should try to be their own person and take part in whatever interests them. If pupils do not live very far from Downside, please remember that some of the boarders cannot go home at weekends and it would be kind to invite them to visit. If pupils have ideas as to anything that we can do to improve the community life within our House, never be afraid to make suggestions to the House Staff.

Computers Pupils will need your own device for the entire academic year. There is wi-fi in House which may be accessed on a pupils laptop/device after they have signed the Acceptable User Policy (AUP). Computer games, social networks and email may not be used during prep or lesson times. Networks between rooms are not permitted. Pupils must not be afraid to report online bullying or abuse to a member of staff. Guidance will be given to all pupils at the start of the year by the Head of ICT. We have a very helpful and supportive ICT team, who are available during the working day to support with any problems.

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Day pupils Day pupils share work areas in the Boarding House. Day pupils should arrive in School each day by 08.15, in order to be on time for House Assembly. The School day finishes at 17.00 when lessons fi nish. When pupils leave at the end of the day, they must make sure they sign out with the Duty Staff. Should day pupils stay late for Prep or school activities, they should inform the House Staff earlier in the day.

Any day pupil coming into School at any other time should ensure they sign in and out with the House Duty Staff.

House Duties All members of the House are responsible for keeping the kitchens and Common Rooms tidy. Duties are carried out on a rota basis and are overseen by the prefect on duty.

Early Bedtime Consistent poor behaviour at bedtime or after lights out will result in an early bedtime. This can apply to all year groups.

Electrical appliances If pupils bring these from home, they will be PAT tested. If an item fails to pass PAT testing it will be withdrawn until they are able to take it home. Pupils must not bring in electric fairy lights, kettles, irons, cooking equipment, diffusers, electric blankets, portable heaters, fans or TVs or any items with non-UK (3 pin) plugs. , unless using an appropriate adapter plug. It is important that we all think about the safety of everyone in the House by treating electricity and the devise regulations with respect.

Environment We are fortunate to have a beautiful environment and are all expected to respect the School and its grounds. Place litter in bins, walk on paths and clear up after yourself. We are proud of our recycling system and energy saving measures in Isabella, pupils should help to maintain our high standards.

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Exeats Weekend exeats: parent’s consent must be received by Ms Ball as soon as possible before they leave for an exeat. If pupils are required for a School or House team, or are a member of the choir, this must be given priority. Please do not make private or family arrangements until you have studied the calendar and consulted with the member of the Staff Common Room who is in charge of your sport or activity.

Special Exeats (ie those not at weekends should be sent to Ms Ball and may then be referred to Mr Randall. It is expected that pupils will keep to the term dates and pupils who live abroad or who are going on holiday should organise their travel arrangements sufficiently early to ensure that early departure or late return are not necessary.

There are two whole School exeats during the Michaelmas Term, and juniors have additional exeats in the Lent and Summer terms. If you know that your friend is not going home, it would be kind (and fun to consider whether to invite them to stay with you (with your parent’s permission.

Fairy Lights The only permitted fairy lights are those that use a battery and do not need to be plugged into a socket.

Fire and Safety Precautions All members of the House must observe Fire & Safety precautions. On a pupils first night in House they will be told where to assemble upon hearing the Fire Alarm: pupils must make sure they identify the closest exits to their room. It is a serious offence to tamper with, or intentionally damage any safety equipment.

Fire extinguishers are located around the House. Pupils need to know where they are and what type of fire they can be used on. Extinguishers should not be used to prop open doors and fire doors should not be prevented from closing.

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Candles, incense and any other types of naked flames are not allowed in School.

If the fire alarm sounds, the House must be evacuated. Pupils will be informed of the correct assembly area for each house.

Food / Tuck All meals must be taken in the School Refectory, following the timetable provided.

There is always a wide selection of hot and cold options. Refectory staff are always helpful should there be any concerns regarding meal options. If pupils have any issues with regards to food or have specific dietary requirements, they should speak to House staff. Food should not be consumed in bedrooms and any tuck should be kept in a sealed box, in the year kitchen. Junior pupils may bring tuck that will be stored in a locker in the House office, which they can access at breaks and in the evenings.

A limited supply of food is kept in House, which is available to pupils on request.

Pupils are encouraged to help themselves to fruit at meal times in the Refectory.

At weekends, there is often an opportunity for pupils to cook for themselves.

Pupils can also sometimes order a takeaway at the weekend but only with permission from a member of staff.

Gating If pupils are gated, they will be required to remain in School in full regulation dress and will have to sign in at regular intervals. Pupils will be gated if, for example, they are late at checking-in times or have failed to sign in or out.

Health & Wellbeing Centre and medicines All new pupils will be shown the Health & Wellbeing Centre in their induction.

Access to the Health Centre is on an appointment basis and House Staff can help organise this. All boarding pupils will be registered with the School GP (local Doctor and will have a medical during the Michaelmas term. Pupils will be weighed and measured at least once a term.

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If pupils are ill, they need to report to the House Staff on duty. Pupils must not absent themselves from lessons, games or other official activities without being signed off by the Health Centre. Unauthorised absence from sports, activities, school assembly, hymn practice etc is treated in the same way as an unauthorised absence from lessons (a Saturday night detention). If pupils are unwell during the night they should alert the member of staff on duty.

If day pupils cannot attend School because of illness, House Staff should be informed by parents before 08.30 either by email to the House Mistress or alternatively, a message can be left on the House telephone. All medicines should be given to the Health Centre staff, whether prescription or over-the counter drugs. If pupils have been given permission by the Health Centre to keep any medicines in their room, they must keep them locked up.

House Colours & Caps Pupils who have repeatedly distinguished themselves in sports, art, music, drama or competitions, in addition to satisfactory work and behaviour, will be awarded Half Colours. Pupils will be awarded Full Colours & Caps later on in their school career if they continue to achieve the highest standards. Caps may be worn at House Dinners, House photographs and other special occasions.

House Council There is a House Council, which will include a representative from each year group, who will meet on a regular basis. Times of the meeting will be arranged by the House Staff, who will also Chair and take minutes. The aim of the House Council is to arrange events and consider what can be improved in House.

Kindness In each House, kindness is at the heart of everything. We are a community that takes care of each other, showing kindness in what we say, and what we do.

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Laundry Pupils should place laundry in the correct bags on their allocated day. Bedding will be washed once a week on a rota basis. Pupils should speak to the House Mothers with any laundry concerns.

Lection Divina Lectio Divina is also offered at various times during the week for all age groups.

This will be explained and organised by the Chaplaincy team.

Manners Good manners are important at all times. Pupils should always be courteous to others. We welcome all visitors but they must sign in with a member of staff first and obtain a Visitors Pass. Visitors to our House, including family members, must remain on the ground floor unless accompanied by a member of staff.

Maintenance Pupils must make every effort not to cause any damage in the House. Any damage should be reported; pupils may be charged if they have caused the damage. If a pupil sees anything that needs repairing, they should inform a member of staff so that the Works Department can be notified.

Mass Mass is celebrated in the Old Chapel at 07.40 twice a week, except when there is a School Mass in the Abbey Church. All are welcome. Anyone who would like to read or serve on a regular basis at this Mass should speak to Father Michael.

School Mass is at 10.00 on Sundays. The Abbey Church is a sacred space, and it is expected that all members of the community behave appropriately and respectfully when in the Abbey Church. Pupils should wear regulation dress including jacket, clean shoes and neat hair.

Each term a House Mass will take place in the Old Chapel, led by the House Chaplaincy representative. It is a special event that all of the House can participate in.

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A House reconciliation service will take place in the second half of each term with an opportunity for individual confession. All pupils are encouraged to make the most of this, and boarders are required to attend.

Non-Catholics are invited to come forward for a blessing at Communion. Pupils should indicate this by crossing their arms over their chest.

Merits and Detentions Academic merits are awarded for good work and effort. Pastoral Merits are awarded for making a difference in House. Academic de-merits can be given by academic staff for failure to complete work to an expected standard or incomplete prep. Pastoral de-merits are awarded for poor behaviour in House or failure to respect the House or the household community. De-merits are taken seriously and may result in further disciplinary action. They are recorded on ISAMS and parents will be informed by email.

If a pupil accumulates several detentions, further action may be taken. If a staff member give you a verbal detention but without recording it on ISAMS, this still counts. Academic detentions take place daily organised by the Heads of Faculty.

A Saturday evening detention will last 1 or 2 hours and can be issued by a senior member of staff. These are usually for serious breaches of school regulations.

Mobile Device Management To help build a healthy and vibrant community, mobile phones must not be brought into the main school buildings during the working day (8.20am-5.00pm, 8.20am – 12.00noon Saturday).

•The First to Fourth Form will hand their phones to the house staff for safe keeping. The Fifth Form will keep their phones in their lockable space in house.

•The Sixth Form may take their phones to the Sixth Form Centre, but the device may not be visible or used in the rest of the School space during the working day.

•Out of respect for a sacred space, phones may not be taken into the Old Chapel or Abbey Church.

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Time & Places mobile devices may be used: •In House at approved times •Outside the buildings outside of the working day •At approved times on school trips (e.g. on the coach) Times and Places mobile devices may not be used: •The School Refectory, Abbey Church & Old Chapel at all times •When working under ‘Exam Conditions’ •We value shared time together in houses and as a school so phones will not be taken to community activities such as meals in the refectory and assemblies.

•Pupils may also be asked to remove smart watches during the working day.

•Pupils who do not respect the regulations around phones and smart watches may have their devices confiscated by a member of staff and provision will be made for contact with home.

•No pupil may take a mobile device (including smart watches) into a room or other area where examinations are being held.

•The security of the device will remain the pupil’s responsibility at all times.

•If asked to do so, content on the device (e.g. messages, emails, pictures, videos, sound files) will be shown to a designated member of staff (HsM, DSL, member of SLT, Network Manager, E-Safety Officer).

•Headphones must not be worn in public areas.

Naming your clothes and equipments All clothing must be named; it is very easy for clothes and equipment to get lost or misplaced if it is not named (particularly socks and underwear). The tailor may have nametapes for you already (please contact the School Shop shop@downside.co.uk or order online through the School Shop https://www.downside.co.uk/product/fabric-nametapes/ or labels https://www.downside.co.uk/product/sticky-name-labels/).

Naming clothes and equipment helps sort out issues of ownership and is particularly useful when someone borrows an item without permission.

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Newspapers Newspapers are available online. We also have a weekly news board that we encourage pupils to contribute to, and to read.

Nuts Please should be thoughtful to those who may have a severe reaction to nuts and not bring products containing nuts into communal areas.

Passports Pupils should hand in passports, tickets, railcards and other important documents at the beginning of each term for safekeeping to the House Office where they will be locked away safely.

Personal property Pupils should ensure they only bring with them what they need and what will fit into their room. Should pupils have too much to fit into their room their parents will be asked to collect and take excess equipment home.

Pocket Money We strongly encourage pupils to have their own bank cards. However, cash over £5 must be held in the House pocket money account. Ideally, parents should transfer funds online (to the same bank account parents use to pay fees. Please ensure that PUPIL NAME and POCKET MONEY are included as the reference so that funds can be allocated correctly.

Our Bank details for direct credits: Barclays Bank plc Account Name: Downside School Account No: 80943215 Sort Code: 20-47-06 IBAN: GB64 BARC 2047 0680 9432 15 SWIFTBIC: BARCGB22

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Cash can be given to the House Office at the start of term. The House Bank operates at set times. If pupils wish to withdraw a significant amount of money for an exeat, a parental request will need to be sent to a member of house staff in advance. Pupils are encouraged you not keep money in rooms. If pupils lose any money, it cannot be claimed back on insurance. Items costing over £5 from the School Shop require consent from a member of House staff.

Post All post is delivered and collected from the School Post Room. Post is collected by staff during the day and can be collected from the House Office. Should a pupil have any questions or need support with post, they speak to a House Parent.

Prefects There is a dedicated prefect team led by the Head of House. They work hard to support the House and have regular meetings.

Problems If a pupil has any problems, they should talk to the House Staff, their Tutor, Chaplains, Prefects or the Health & Wellbeing Centre staff (who can also put them in touch with a School Counsellor.)

Any incident of bullying or deliberate unkindness, as well as any action by another pupil likely to cause danger or harm to themselves or others, should be reported at once.

Retreat Each year group has a day on retreat every year. These are important days, and opportunities to think, pray and spend time getting to know each other better..

We also have a whole House retreat which is led by senior pupils and the Chaplaincy team.

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Rooms Rooms are in a good condition at the start of the year. Pupils must not use glue, screws, nails etc or add locks. Posters may only be displayed on noticeboards and must be appropriate and not offensive. Any damage will be charged to the pupils bill at the end of the term. Rooms must be kept clean and tidy. Food is not allowed in rooms.

Pupils should not go into rooms other than their own if there is no one present, and knock on the door if it is closed.

Windows and doors must be opened every morning. There may be occasions when pupils will be asked to move rooms. Where possible pupils will be involved in this decision, but in extreme cases, the House Staff may need to move pupil's rooms without consultation.

Security Safety is paramount; and pupils should play their part in maintaining the all-round security of the school and their personal safety. Lockers can be used to secure any valuable items, which should be clearly named and insured. If pupils lose anything or property is damaged, please contact a House Parent. Pupils should look after their property and respect the property of others. Do not borrow without permission.

Each House is fitted with a code entry system for pupils security and each pupil has a lockable space for the storage of valuable items. Pupils should bring a padlock to school with preferably two keys, one of which can be handed in to the School Office.

Smoking & Vaping Smoking & vaping are forbidden in the School. Downside is a non-smoking site. Pupils should be prepared to accept the concequenses if they break the School rules. Please see the School’s Policy for details of sasanctions.

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Take-away orders Take-away orders may only be made at the weekend, when the Weld cafe is closed (19.30 - 21.00 Saturday and Sunday). Permission is required from House Staff prior to making an order.

Tutors A pupil's tutor is responsible for monitoring their academic progress and for giving advice and encouragement. Pupils will see their tutor regularly for a discussion on how things are progressing. A pupil's tutor should be their first port of call for any academic concerns that arise, as well as the member of staff who talks through their reports.

If a tutor is worried about a pupil, they will speak to a House Parent. If a pupil has a problem in class, are behind in their work, or have other problems, they should talk to the teacher involved first, then their tutor or House Parent or a member of the Academic Leadership Team.

Uniform and appearance Please ensure that pupil's regulation dress is kept in good order and fits properly.

Regulation dress (sports kit as necessary) should be worn throughout the working day. Pupils are free to change into their own clothes before supper. Pupils should not wear part uniform/part own clothes. Casual clothes can be worn after lessons and around School from lunchtime on Saturday until Sunday evevening (except for Mass).

Clothes should be clean and in good repair, as well as being suitable and appropriate for wearing around School. Pupils should not borrow another pupil’s clclothes (or any other items) without permission.

Weekend activities Almost every weekend, various trips take place on Sunday afternoons and occasionally Saturday evenings. If pupils wish to participate in one of these trips then they should sign up by SOCS. These activities are a great opportunity to try new things and see new places. Pupils are more than welcome to suggest activities or take a part in organising an event.

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