Senior Handbook 2024-2025

King’s Ely Senior Information for Parents and Pupils

S enio r

Message from the Head

I am delighted to welcome both new and returning students to the start of the academic year. King’s Ely has a rich history, stretching back over a 1000 years, yet has an outlook firmly fixed on the future. I occasionally describe King’s Ely as a ‘school with a soul’ and I hope each student, in different ways, fully benefits from their experience as part of our community.

This handbook is designed primarily as a reference document which will help you to familiarise yourself with the way we do things here. If you are new, it should help answer some of your questions, but for everyone, it will also act as a source of information regarding many aspects of school life. The school website is also a rich source of information. You will also receive a House Handbook which will provide additional detail from a house perspective.

I look forward to meeting you at one of the many events over the course of the academic year. If you would like to contact me at any point in the meantime, please contact my PA, Paula Trippett on 01353 660700 or PaulaTrippett@kingsely.org.

With very best wishes,

Jonathan Shaw Head of KES

People at King’s Ely Senior

Whilst King’s is located in a wonderful setting, all schools are primarily about the people who make up the community. At King’s, our aim is to work closely in partnership with parents. Whilst Tutors and Housemasters/ Housemistresses are the first point of contact, you are encouraged to be in contact with the Senior Leadership Team at KES with any concerns.

John Attwater Principal

Mr Attwater has overall responsibility for all 3 sections of King’s Ely: Acremont (KEA), Prep (KEP) and Senior (KES). He is also responsible for Fairstead House, which is our sister school in Newmarket.

Jonathan Shaw Head

Mr Shaw leads the KES Senior Leadership Team and is responsible for all matters relating to pupils and teachers at KES. Mr Shaw teaches History.

Jane Thomas Vice Principal Academic

Mrs Thomas oversees all academic matters at King’s Ely. At KES she leads the team of Heads of Departments. Mrs Thomas teaches Geography.

Charlie Fisher Deputy Head

Mr Fisher oversees the pastoral team and the day to day running of KES. He is the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for King’s Ely. Mr Fisher teaches History.

Matthew Norbury

Director for International Students

Mr Norbury leads the KES international programme. Please contact him regarding international academic student matters and in particular, the one-year IGCSE programme. Mr Norbury teaches Geography and ESOL.

Elizabeth Bennell

Head of Sixth

Form

Mrs Bennell has specific responsibility for all matters relating to the Sixth Form (Years 12 & 13). Mrs Bennell teaches French.

Hayley Mortimer Deputy Head Co-Curriculum

Miss Mortimer has responsibility for the Co-Curricular Programme throughout King’s Ely. Miss Mortimer teaches Academic and Practical Physical Education.

Andy Thomas

Director of Boarding

Mr Thomas has responsibility for boarding throughout King’s Ely, both at KEP and KES. Mr Thomas teaches History and Government & Politics.

Contact List

All members of staff are here to help you. The first port of call for academic matters is your child’s Tutor. For pastoral issues, you should contact your child’s Housemaster or Housemistress (HsM) or the Head of Year. If you wish to contact any member of staff, please call 01353 660700 or email directly using this format for their address: FirstnameSurname@kingsely.org.

However, there are specific people who can help you with particular issues. Further details can be found in Appendix 4 and 5.

Academic matters

• Your child’s Tutor

• For other unresolved academic mattersJane Thomas, Vice Principal Academic

Pastoral matters

• Your child’s Housemaster/Housemistress

• Further unresolved pastoral mattersCharlie Fisher, Deputy Head of KES

Years 9 to 11

• Your child’s tutor/Housemaster/Housemistress

• Scott Mathie (Head of Year 9)

ScottMathie@kingsely.org

• James Foster (Head of Year 10)

JamesFoster@kingsely.org

• Sue-Ellen Godde (Head of Year 11) SueEllenGodde@kingsely.org

Sixth Form

• Your child’s Tutor/Housemaster/Housemistress

• Elizabeth Bennell (the Head of Sixth Form & Year 12 ElizabethBennell@kingsely.org

• Peter Thistlethwaite (Head of Year 13) PeterThistlethwaite@kingsely.org

Child Protection and Safeguarding issues

• Designated Safeguarding Lead - Charlie Fisher

Permission for absence

• In the first instance, permission for absence should be directed to the Housemaster or Housemistress. Long term absence requests should be made directly to Mr Shaw, the Head of KES.

Daily absentees

To report an absence please do one of the following:

• Use the forms on My School Portalhttp://kingsely.myschoolportal.co.uk

• Contact Main Reception by emailabsentees@kingsely.org

• Contact Main Reception by telephone01353 660700

The First Day

The first day of school for everybody is Tuesday 3rd September. However, all Year 9 pupils, Year 11 King’s Ely International (KEI) pupils and all Year 12 pupils are expected to attend school for Induction Day on Monday 2nd September. On Monday, please wear full school uniform / suits for sixth formers. As Tuesday is a games day for Y11-Y13, pupils in those years may wear King’s Ely games kit, including tracksuit trousers / leggings.

Induction Day

Monday 2nd September is an induction day for all Year 9 pupils, Year 11 King’s Ely International (KEI) pupils and all Year 12. The day is intended to help everyone settle in before school starts properly on Tuesday 3rd September. Everyone else should arrive ready to start school at 8.25am on Tuesday.

Boarders

From 2pm onwards, Year 9, KEI Year 11 and Year 12 Boarders should arrive at their boarding houses between 2pm and 9pm on Sunday 1st September (Hereward, Hill House, Etheldreda, School or Wendreda), where you will be met by your Housemaster or Housemistress. All other returning boarders should arrive between 2pm and 9pm on Monday 2nd September. Details will be provided separately by your House. Nearly everyone will be feeling nervous, so it will be important to be friendly and helpful to one another as you settle into your first day at KES.

Year 9

Term starts with an Induction Day on Monday 2nd September, with boarders arriving on Sunday 1st September. On Monday, day pupils should arrive in school uniform and register at their Day House by 8.25am. They will be met by their Housemaster or Housemistress (HsM) and their Tutor. There will be a series of induction events for all Year 9s, led by Mr Mathie (Head of Year 9). Please remember to bring any electronic devices (e.g. laptops) so that we can ensure everyone is set up on the King’s Ely network. There will be swim tests and preparation for Stage Camp in the afternoon so please bring Games kit and Swimwear. The day will finish at 4pm.

Year 10

Any new pupils in Year 10 are invited to come into school at 2pm on Monday 2nd September to meet their tutors and Housemasters or Housemistresses and to set up lap tops before the first day. All other returning Year 10 pupils start school on Tuesday 3rd September.

Year 11 KEI (One Year IGCSE Programme)

Whether a day pupil or boarder, international one-year IGCSE pupils at King’s Ely Senior have a personalised induction programme over 3 days including orientation to our school campus, our teaching methodology, school expectations and facilities as well as ensuring that your personal school email and online portals have been set up. This starts on Monday 2nd September.

Year 12 Day Pupils

On the first morning, Monday 2nd September, Year 12 should arrive at the Old Palace by 8.30am. You will be met by the Sixth Form team and by your ‘buddy’ who will look after you, make sure you know what you’re doing and help you find your feet. There will be plenty of other people joining King’s at the same time as you and the Sixth Form experience is new to everyone, so try not to worry.

The first day will focus on helping you to familiarise yourself with King’s Ely. There will be various induction activities, including some time to sort out logistics, timetables and to answer any questions you may have.

We will also get your lap tops set up on the network and so please remember to bring these with you (fully charged and with a power cable). Otherwise, please just bring a pen and remember that you are expected to follow the Sixth Form dress code from day one.

Year 11 and Year 13 (Day and Boarder)

Boarders should arrive on the afternoon of Monday 2nd September (or earlier by arrangement with your HsM). Day pupils should register in houses or at the OP by 8.25am on Tuesday 3rd September.

Getting to know us

Advice for new pupils

Whether you are arriving from the Prep section of King’s Ely (KEP) or are completely new, it is likely that you will be feeling both nervous and excited. KES is a very friendly school and it is important to remember that we want to do all we can to help you settle in quickly. There are plenty of people around to help you, these include: your Housemaster or Housemistress, your Tutor and the House Prefects, as well as lots of fellow pupils who can recall just what it is like to be new to the School.

When you first arrive, your House will become your family. This is particularly the case for boarders and pupils in Year 9 to 11 as it is where you will start and end your day and it will be your “base” at break time and lunchtime. You will be guided through your initial steps at KES by a combination of older pupils, House Tutors and your Housemaster/Housemistress. It is also important to help each other out; you will all be asking the same questions, so share the answers! Day pupils in the Sixth Form will start and end their day in the Old Palace and this will be your base at break and lunchtimes.

If you do get a little lost on the campus or don’t make friends straight away, please remember that this is perfectly normal. Adapting to any new environment is a challenge but you will find that there are plenty of people to help. If you are struggling in any way, the important thing is how you deal with it:

• Go and talk to someone - a friend, your Head of House, Head of Year, your Tutor or Housemaster or Housemistress.

• It takes time to settle fully into a new community but try to focus on what you are doing that day.

Making new friends takes time but you will find KES to be a very welcoming and friendly community. Here are a few simple but effective tips to help you in your first few days:

• Be interested… take an interest in your fellow pupils and ask them all about themselves. You may well discover that you have all sorts of things in common.

• Be helpful… wait for friends from house before heading off to lessons and games. Look out for people who are sitting on their own or are a little less confident.

• Get involved in what is going on and try new things; join a session in the Art School, the Music School or one of the many clubs.

• Be honest and straightforward in your dealings with everyone; the best relationships are founded on mutual respect and trust.

Finally, hold yourself to high standards and expect us to hold you to them as well. Ely is a beautiful city and King’s sits in the middle of the community. Every interaction you have with members of the public is an opportunity to improve the reputation of King’s. Be polite and considerate in everything you do. Move aside on pavements when walking around the campus, or to and from the station, say “hello” as you pass people and be aware of how your actions are viewed by members of the public. Remember you are now joining a long line of pupils who have attended King’s Ely, be respectful of those who have gone before you and commit to improving the school whilst you are here.

Daily Routine 2024 to 2025

It will probably take a few days to get used to the routine. Teachers will expect students to arrive punctually but will be understanding of the challenges of navigating a new site in the first few days. It is important to leave in good time to get to classes and activities. There is always a five-minute gap between lessons to allow time to move between buildings and be on time for the next lesson.

8:25am Registration

8:40am Cathedral, Assemblies & Tutorials See below

9:00am Period 1

9:55am Period 2

10:45am Break

11:10am Period 3

12:05pm Period 4

12:55pm Lunch (Period 5)

1:55pm Period 6

2:50pm Period 7

3:45pm Period 8

4:30pm End of formal lessons

4:30pm onwards Co-Curricular Clubs and Activities

Mondays: (P3 and P4)

Year 9 (Week A only) and Year 10 have games

Fridays (P3 and P4)

Year 9 have Ely Scheme from 11.55am Year 11 to Year 13 have games

Tuesdays

P6 & P7Years 11-13 have games

P8 Enrichment or Sports Fixtures

Thursdays

P6 & P7 Years 9-10 have games

P8 Enrichment or Sports Fixtures

Cathedral, Assemblies and Tutorials

8.25am 8:40am Years 9 to 11 8.40am Years 12 to 13

Monday Tutor time Cathedral Cathedral

Tuesday Tutor time School Assembly (HT) Tutor

Wednesday Pupils in house / OP House Assembly

Thursday Tutor time Tutor / PSHE Sixth Form Assembly (HT)

Friday Tutor time Cathedral Cathedral

Boarding at KES

Our vibrant boarding community lies at the heart of KES. British and international students live, work and socialise together, sharing all aspects of school and boarding house life.

Beyond the academic side of school, we want pupils to live their lives to the full. This could be competing in an inter-House sports match, acting in a drama production or singing in a choir in Ely Cathedral. Boarders appreciate what it means to be part of a highly supportive community and actively encourage each other to achieve their potential.

Weekends give boarders a chance to both relax and to take part in a variety of activities. Many of our boarders represent the school in sports fixtures against local competition. Both the Sports Hall and the school gym are open on Sunday afternoons for strength and conditioning, basketball, five-a-side, volleyball and badminton. Others opt for a variety of weekend Ely

Scheme activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme, climbing, fell walking and kayaking expeditions. For those that enjoy the performing arts, there are often rehearsals for drama productions and concerts at the weekend. On Sundays there are both whole boarding community and house trips and activities, which have included barbecues in Thetford forest, shopping in London or visits to zoos and the seaside. Sixth-form boarders may, with permission from their housemasters or housemistresses, travel to Cambridge with friends for a meal, shopping, the cinema or, even, all three.

At KES, we are extremely proud that our boarding houses, some of which date back to the Middle Ages, reflect the world in the 21st century. We believe the rich cultural diversity that our students of over 35 different nationalities bring to our community is a cause for celebration.

King’s Ely One-Year IGCSE Programme

The one-year IGCSE programme is an integral part of King’s Ely, enhancing the global nature of our school community. In the first week, the pupils will have their level of English Language assessed to ensure they have the most appropriate level of language support. Maths is also checked to ensure pupils are placed in the most appropriate group. There is a 3 day induction programme which includes taster sessions for IGCSE

subjects and an orientation to Ely and Cambridge. Once pupils feel confident and comfortable with their day-to-day school timetable and life, the first few weeks may also offer a chance to discuss their initial progress with their personal Tutor and make any necessary academic or pastoral changes. We will contact parents within the first 2 weeks to update them on progress.

Sixth Form

The Sixth Form centre is housed in the beautiful and inspiring surroundings of the Old Palace (the OP) which offers plenty of space for both studying and socialising. Pupils eat in their own Refectory or outside in the courtyard if the weather is fine. The Long Gallery is the largest space and is used as a work space during lesson times and a social space at break and lunchtimes. If you want to chat / relax during study periods, you should use the Common Room which also houses a pool table. The final room is the James Woodford room, which is also known as the ‘Silent Study’ room.You may also work in the Refectory throughout the day and there is also a dedicated Sixth Form gym. The OP is a warm and friendly environment where pupils enjoy a strong sense of community whilst remaining fully part of the wider school.

Pupils are supported by the Sixth Form team, including dedicated Sixth Form Tutors, as they adjust to the greater independence and freedom offered. Mrs Bennell is the Head of Sixth Form with specific responsibility for Year 12. Mr Thistlethwaite is Head of Year 13. Mrs Halls (Sixth form Supervisor) is also based in the Old Palace and is a constant presence to help the sixth form run smoothly. Wherever possible, pupils are encouraged to be responsible for making their own choices, but supervised study is available for those who want or need it. Thanks to this close-knit environment, every pupil is known well and benefits from a bespoke network to support their academic

and pastoral wellbeing. Pupils in the Sixth Form swap school uniform for a dress code which allows for greater personal expression, whilst adhering to what would be appropriate for a smart, professional working environment.

Pupils may initially choose four subjects to take in the Sixth Form although the vast majority will drop to three by Michaelmas half term. Some may continue with four if they are taking Further Mathematics. In addition to those subjects already offered at GCSE, there are several new subjects including Government and Politics, Economics, Psychology and Film Studies. Alongside this there is an expectation of four to six hours of additional independent study per subject. There is also the opportunity to take the Extended Project Qualification which is viewed favourably by universities.

Alongside their academic subjects, pupils will follow a programme of Extended Learning and PSHE to develop leadership skills and critical thinking, broaden their horizons and deepen their awareness of wider social issues. A schedule of Higher Education and Careers guidance supports pupils as they make their choices about the next stage of their lives. Opportunities for co-curricular enrichment abound with Sixth Formers often taking on leading roles in the many societies, teams and clubs as well as volunteering in the local community.

Pastoral Care and Welfare

The happiness, wellbeing and success of each individual is central to all we do. We believe every pupil should enjoy and make the very most of their learning in the classroom. They are also actively encouraged to find their niche beyond the curriculum. A good education will encourage children to take risks, to participate in new activities and to be open to new ideas. They should leave with the confidence and skills to play leading roles in society.

At KES we aim:

• To create a caring environment where pupils are valued for who they are, not just for what they currently contribute.

• To ensure every pupil has the self-confidence to tackle both academic and personal challenges.

• To provide pupils with opportunities for involvement, leadership and service.

• To encourage pupils to exercise individual and social responsibility.

• To ensure that each pupil has access to personal, vocational and academic guidance and support, where necessary.

• To establish and maintain excellent communication with every parent, so that together we can help prepare pupils for adult life.

Responsibility

The pastoral care of all our pupils is the responsibility of the whole school community. The way we treat, talk to, interact with and teach pupils all contribute to the quality of our pastoral care.

i. The main focus for pastoral care for pupils is their Tutor who is responsible for the pastoral and academic oversight of their tutees.

ii. Housemasters and Housemistresses oversee the work of the Tutors within their Houses. They are supported by the Head of Sixth Form and the Heads of Year.

iii. KES has a Community Welfare Adviser and Mental Health Lead. They work with a team of welfare assistants, counsellors, the Health and Wellbeing Centre and the Chaplain.

iv. The Chaplain provides additional support for all members of the school community.

v. As Deputy Head, Mr Fisher oversees the pastoral care provision. His door is always open to pupils.

Communication

We believe excellent communication between home and school is integral to the wellbeing and progress of all pupils. We will do our best to keep you informed of any concerns at school and we ask that parents alert us to any concerns they may have picked up at home.

Counselling

King’s Ely offers a counselling service which is co-ordinated by the Community Welfare Advisor. They work with a team of a team of BACP qualified counsellors. All pupils may access counselling, of which the first six sessions are free of charge each academic year. The counselling service is confidential apart from the rare occasions when there is a safeguarding concern which would be passed onto the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

In the Senior School, we welcome parents being aware of the counselling process and when possible, invite your input at the point of referral. Referrals may be received from parents, staff or direct from pupils. The school counsellors aim to provide a specialised, professional layer of support, complementing the pastoral support offered by Tutors, teachers, housemasters, and housemistresses.

House System

The House system at King’s Ely is central to the life of every student. From the start, students develop a strong allegiance to their House; it’s a place to make friends, a base between lessons and the hub of House competition, whether it be debating, sport, music or outdoor pursuits.

All students are allocated to one of nine day and boarding Houses. Houses take responsibility for leading worship in the cathedral, fund-raising for charity and organising social events. This allows everyone the opportunity to experience the fun and the challenge of working as a team and engaging with students in all year groups, including Sixth Form.

Tutoring

Working closely with parents, Tutors, HsMs and Heads of Year are there for each student, celebrating their achievements and supporting them through the problems that may arise in adolescence.

Personal Development (PSHE)

Personal Development provides students with information, skills and attributes to navigate the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities they currently face and will encounter in the future. It includes Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE/RSE) education and careers education.

For pupils in Years 9-12, PSHE takes place in form time (once per week) and Year 13 students will have a designated lesson which their tutor will lead throughout the year.

Academic Life

Academic Expectations

Learning should be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. We want our pupils to feel both supported and challenged with their work. We encourage pupils to take risks with their learning and strive to do their best.

Our King’s Ely Learning Habits framework underpins our academic ethos. We embolden pupils to be reflective about their work so that they can recognise their strengths and understand how they can improve. Pupils are actively encouraged to ask questions and to be creative in their responses to tasks. We want pupils to develop their abilities to work collaboratively, to know where and when to ask for help and by advocating that pupils take risks with their work, we develop their resilience. We champion the view that pupils should see themselves as being an integral part of a community of learning and to respect each other as learners.

The curriculum is broad and balanced and full details of the programmes are found in Curriculum Outlines published annually on My School Portal for each stage of education in King’s Ely Senior (Year 9, GCSE and A Level). The curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of learners. Pupil voice is very much part of this process.

Reporting and Assessment

We like to keep parents well informed about the academic progress of their son or daughter. In addition to reports being sent home, Period Grades are also sent which record standards of effort and achievement over the previous few weeks. These provide the opportunity to monitor the effort put into academic work in each subject. Letters are sent home to congratulate the pupils who have made the most improvement or who have done particularly well. Tutors also discuss progress with their tutees and agree on targets for development.

Reports contain detailed analysis of academic performance in each subject (including instrumental lessons). They may also contain comments on Games and regular co-curricular activities, Ely Scheme, courses and camps, participation in Orchestra, Chapel Choir, Choral Society and any other external activity or achievement.

Whilst assessment is an integral part of the day to day teaching and learning process, we do schedule a number of formal exam sessions so that pupils are fully prepared for GCSE and A Level examinations. There are internal exams for members of Year 9 towards the end of the Michaelmas and Summer terms.

Setting at the start of Year 9 in the Michaelmas Term is provisional and based on the Year 8 examination performance and is subject to confirmation following the Michaelmas Term exams. Subsequent to these, there is some movement in order to ensure that pupils are best placed for their ability. Any move will be made not only on the evidence of examination results, but also upon work throughout the term.

Pupils in Year 10 have a set of GCSE style exams in the Summer term at the half way point of their courses. Year 11 mock examinations are usually in the January of Year 11 and are an important marker point for predicted grades. Year 12 summer exams contribute towards UCAS predictions. Year 13 mock examinations are held after February half term.

For the intensive one-year IGCSE programme there are a series of tests or exams every 4 to 5 teaching weeks resulting in either grade cards or full reports. Mocks are held each March while final IGCSE exams and language speaking tests commence in late April each academic year.

A full schedule of exams is published each year on My School Portal. Tutors advise pupils on revision skills and we run a number of ‘how to revise’ workshops.

Homework/Prep

Prep is considered an important part of the learning process. Pupils are encouraged to establish good habits with prep and Tutors assist with any organisational issues. Pupils in Year 9-11 have a prep timetable for the week; whilst pupils in Year 12 and Year 13 are given more independence in organizing their study time. Pupils in Year 9-11 can expect to spend between 1 ½ to 2 hours on prep each evening. In Year 12 and Year 13, pupils are expected to spend 4-6 hours a week working on each subject outside of lesson time. All prep tasks are set online so that it is straightforward for pupils to keep track of their tasks.

Online Parents’ Evenings

We offer you the formal opportunity to meet with us at Parents’ Evenings twice each year. These evenings are online to save travel time and to allow parents from overseas to attend. These are key evenings for you as parents and ones which we value hugely as staff. Such is the nature of the evenings that staff might be speaking to as many as 30 different sets of parents. A time limit is therefore required, with the proviso that we will always make the opportunity to organise an additional meeting at a mutually convenient time should it be necessary. A schedule of Parents’ Evenings for the year is published on My School Portal each September. An email will be sent to remind parents of the evening and to provide parents with an opportunity to book appointments. We also offer a number of in person workshops for parents throughout the year. Where possible we will record these for those parents unable to attend.

University Applications, Higher Education and Careers

Advice is given to all students from Year 10 upwards on how best to prepare themselves for the University Application Process which begins in earnest in Year 12. Gill Smith (Higher Education), Elizabeth Bennell (Head of Sixth Form) and the team of Tutors give one-to-one advice to all pupils in Year 12 to help them in their decision-making process regarding the next steps after King’s. UCAS preparation workshops take place in June of Year 12. Toby Humphry is Head of Careers and gives guidance to pupils on non-university pathways such as degree apprenticeships, internships and work experience, or even starting their own business. Within the one-year IGCSE programme Mr Norbury ensures that all the Year 11 students at King’s Ely are fast-tracked through A level options and higher education advice on par with all other KES students.

Information Technology, BYOD and Use of Laptops

The use of ICT is integral to work at King’s Ely. Every student has their own email account and is expected to use this for regular communication. Any attempt to misuse the school IT systems will be treated as a serious disciplinary offence. The use of school computers to obtain, view or pass on inappropriate material is also forbidden.

Pupils using a laptop or tablet in school, must complete the BYOD form to register the device in school. Pupils must also have read and signed the BYOD procedure. All users of computing facilities are required to agree to the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), agreeing to comply with the statutory regulations and other provisions applicable to computer systems and the information stored in them.

All pupils in Years 9 to 13 must have a laptop to use in lessons. Details regarding suitable laptop specifications can be found in our BYOD Policy which is issued to all pupils before they join the school. It is a pupil’s responsibility to ensure it is charged each day.

Library

The Library houses more than 13,000 books to support reading for both pleasure and the curriculum up to and beyond A Levels, as well as offering access to a wide array of digital content, including eBooks, digital databases, and magazines. It is open throughout the school day. Pupils are encouraged to have a reading book and can choose from a wide selection of up to date fiction.

The Librarian, Mrs Smith, works with pupils to help them choose books and pupils are encouraged to recommend titles to be added to the collection.

The non-fiction stock, in print as well as digital format, is up to date and is used during project-based and research tasks, both in lessons and homework.

In addition, the library houses a colour printer, computers, comfortable seating and desk space. Board games are available at break and lunchtimes and for many it provides a comfortable place in which to relax and read during the busy day. Mrs Smith works closely with the English Department to ensure a range of relevant reading lists and topical displays to promote reading for pleasure. She is always happy to offer book suggestions and advice on encouraging reading and research skills.

Learning Habits Framework

Resilient Learners:

• seek effective alternative strategies when the solution to any aspect of work is not immediately obvious

RESILIENCE

COLLABORATION

• are prepared to risk experimenting with new approaches and try new things in order to improve

• will try again if not successful the first time, showing patience and perseverance.

Collaborative Learners:

• know that it is advantageous to work with others and consider other viewpoints

• respect and value the input of other cultures, nationalities and religious perspectives

• seek out the resources needed for a task, whether they are electronic or more traditional sources of knowledge.

Creative and Curious Learners:

• are able to ask relevant questions to extend their understanding and satisfy their curiosity

CREATIVITY & CURIOSITY

REFLECTION

• want to find out the answers beyond the work set or expected

• generate ideas, explore possibilities and consider alternative ways of presenting information.

Reflective Learners:

• take time to think about how their own work can be improved and act upon it

• seek out advice from teachers when necessary

• listen to, consider and act upon feedback from teachers and peers.

Learning Support

The Learning Support Department is committed to helping all pupils become independent and confident lifelong learners.

We offer support and expertise to any pupil who may need help with their learning, in close partnership with teachers, parents, Tutors and boarding house staff to provide all-round support.

Working with pupils to identify their strengths and individual learning styles, we help them to develop strategies to maximise success and minimise barriers to learning. We enable pupils to take risks with their learning in order to develop an understanding of how they learn.

The Learning Support Department is a calm and nurturing environment, enabling pupils to work individually with the LS team on hand to support when necessary. We offer study skills help to a wide range of pupils as and when they need it, and we advise staff about learning difficulties and the best approaches to employ in supporting the pupils in their classroom through differentiation and inclusive strategies. The department tracks pupils’ progress and varies the support they receive accordingly, liaising with teaching and pastoral staff to identify difficulties so that we can provide the right level of support.

At KES, we support students with a range of mild learning difficulties, including dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and some ASD profiles. Some pupils will have scheduled Learning Support lessons as part of their curriculum, whilst other pupils will attend ‘drop-in’ sessions before school, at lunchtimes or after school.

There will be a few instances where a pupil does not make the expected progress, despite the above provision and interventions. In these instances, we will suggest individual lessons for Year 9 to 11 pupils who require longer term support as an extra to the core support that the school already offers. This 1:1 intervention will be optional and at an additional cost to parents. It will be provided by an external qualified Specialist Teacher who will work with our existing Learning Support Department to deliver bespoke individualised intervention. The external Specialist Teacher will meet and liaise with parents on a termly basis. The 1:1 lesson will be timetable and delivered on rotation in line with the school peripatetic teacher approach.

Academic Enrichment

Beyond the core curriculum, there is a wide range of academic enrichment opportunities. These include; Ancient Greek, Avicenna (Medics Society), the Da Vinci Club (Engineering Society), History Café, Model United Nations, the school newspaper (KESTrel) and the Language Leader programme. Many of our clubs and societies are run by pupils and there is always an opportunity to get involved.

Co-curricular

It is our intention to offer an education that develops the whole person that both seeks to challenge and ignite the passion of each individual student. To that end we offer a large range of activities beyond the school day designed to encourage participation and to offer students the chance of success in areas other than the classroom.

We encourage students to try new things so that they can discover their talents and passions, wherever they may lie. The quality and range of activities enables all students to find their niche as well as making new friends. Ms Hayley Mortimer (Deputy Head CoCurricular) oversees all aspects of the Co-Curricular Programme.

Clubs and Activities

In addition to the academic enrichment activities (see page 20), many interest groups, catering to a wide variety of tastes, operate at lunchtimes and after school. This includes Warhammer and Dungeon and Dragons, Chess, Christian Union, Cultural Crafts Club, bouldering, Debating, Magic Club and King’s Unity (LGBTQ support).

Sometimes these are teacher led; at other times it is the students themselves who initiate the activity. Either way, there is no doubt that the myriad of opportunities on offer play a large part in the life of a KES student.

Art

The Art department is a thriving, inspiring environment where all students are encouraged to engage fully with the state-of-the-art facilities available. Specialist teachers encourage adventurous creativity and students realise ambitious outcomes, regularly achieving some of the highest exam marks in the country.

The department specialises in Fashion and Textiles, Fine Art, Sculpture and Photography and everyone has the opportunity to study within a supportive environment to produce individual artwork of the highest calibre. All the specialist studios are well-equipped for the development of ambitious outcomes, including sculptural fashion design, digital photography, large scale canvas work and installation pieces. Students are ambitious in their approach to project requirements and consistently aim to achieve success.

Opportunities for co-curricular work take place after school each day. This includes work for major exhibitions at Olympia, Alexandra Palace, The Apex Gallery, Business Design Centre and the Babylon Gallery, as well as national, regional and local competitions. Our outstanding successes include first prize in the National Fashion and Textiles awards at the Business Design Centre 2023.

The learning experience is further enhanced by visits to high-profile exhibitions and participation in lectures and workshop activities. Popular choices include the Victoria and Albert Museum, Royal Academy, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Modern and the University of Cambridge Museums. Please contact Alison Rhodes, the Director of Art if you have any specific questions.

Drama and Dance

Drama and Dance are important parts of school life for many pupils. School productions have been favourably compared to professional productions and are a highlight of the school calendar. In addition to acting, they provide many backstage and technical opportunities, essential to building self-confidence and developing theatrical skills.

Theatre Masterclasses and Dance Clubs stretch our most able and deepen their understanding of the subject, whilst educational visits and tours provide opportunities to experience professional theatre, both as performers and audience members. We regularly perform at the Edinburgh Festival and have been awarded four and five stars for original pieces of theatre. Trinity Speech and Drama lessons are available to those seeking additional individual challenges with many securing the highest awards available during their time at King’s.

Pupils who wish to study Drama or a related degree at university or who are auditioning for a place at drama school are well prepared with one-to-one coaching. Many pupils have gone on to successfully audition for drama schools and are now working as professional actors, designers and technicians.

If you have any questions regarding drama, please contact the Director of Drama and Theatre, Mrs Jane Parker.

Music

We are extremely proud of our musical tradition. Music at King’s Ely is vibrant, engaging and inclusive. Each pupil is guided by a team of specialist teachers to find their own musical journey through an imaginative and stimulating curriculum, with the option of learning an instrument and by participating in an all encompassing range of extra-curricular musical activities. Situated in the heart of KES, the Gibson Music School provides opportunities to perform in many diverse vocal and instrumental ensembles at a variety of levels. Every pupil competes in the eagerly contested House Song Competition. King’s Ely musicians also have the opportunity to tour regularly.

After King’s Ely, many of our musicians have gone on to secure places at Conservatoires in London (Guildhall, RCM, RAM and Trinity Laban), Birmingham and Manchester(RNCM), along with places at the Glyndebourne Youth Academy and Choral or Organ Scholarships at Oxbridge. Many go on to become music professionals. If you have any questions regarding music, please contact the Director of Music, Mr Neil Porter-Thaw.

Sport

Sport is a major part of school life and encompasses both team and individual sports. All pupils are expected to participate fully in the comprehensive sporting programme that is on offer and represent the school. Sport and exercise play a vital role in a healthy active lifestyle and positive mental and social health. The choice of sports and exercise available increases in Year 11 and the Sixth Form, as pupils find the sport or form of exercise they most enjoy. A full list is available on SOCS.

King’s Ely has excelled in several sports over recent years with success being recognised through selection at district, county, regional and national level in a number of sports. Sports tours are also organised to expose pupils to new cultures and global competition. Year 9 and Year 10 pupils must choose from one of the following options:

From Year 11 onwards, pupils can opt for a wider range of sports and activities in addition to the major sports. There is a wide range of choices such as basketball, badminton, golf, hockey, table tennis, squash, strength and conditioning, bouldering, yoga, Pilates and Zumba.

There are fixtures on Tuesday (11-13) and Thursday (9-10) and also on a Saturday, these are sent out to parents via KingsPost on a termly basis or can be found in the school calendar. Children who are picked to play for a school team are expected to be available to play. Exceptional circumstances should be communicated to the Director of Sport as soon as possible.

If there is a medical reason why pupils are not able to participate in a sport session or a school fixture or activity, please send an email to the Director of Sport. If your child is ill or injured and is thus ‘Off Games’, please use My School Portal and complete the ‘Off Games Request’. Notes for boarders are issued by the Medical Centre Staff. In the course of the day, an Off Games note may be issued at the discretion of the medical staff.

For those pupils who wish to take their sport more seriously, there is a Sports Masterclass series to challenge and develop their passion.

If you have any questions regarding sport, please contact the Director of Sport, Alex Meddle.

Summer

Ely Scheme

The Ely Scheme offers opportunities for pupils to explore and learn through outdoor education. A comprehensive and progressive programme of outdoor activities run throughout Year 9 on Friday mornings. This provides the lead-in to greater adventures on the rock face, rivers and mountains. Outdoor education at King’s Ely offers pupils the chance to learn self-reliance, teamwork, creative thinking and a determined attitude towards all challenges in life.

Our unique programme is facilitated by specially selected and trained pupil instructors who deliver our activities and learn to become leaders. From guiding pupils up mountain rock faces in Wales and Spain and scrambling over the rocky spires of the Cuillin Ridge and Corsican High Level Route, to running them down rapids in the French Alps, the clubs and trips are run by highly technical staff, some of whom were once pupil instructors at KES.

All of our trips and expeditions are run from within the Ely Scheme so that each individual’s abilities and skill can be monitored carefully to guarantee a tailored programme of independent learning on their journey through our rock climbing, kayaking and mountaineering clubs.

If you have any questions regarding Ely Scheme, please contact the Director of Outdoor Education, Mr James Houlston.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

KES is committed to providing students with access to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme is a voluntary noncompetitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities. It is designed to support the personal and social development of young people, regardless of gender, background or ability. It offers an individual challenge and encourages young people to undertake exciting constructive, challenging and enjoyable activities in their free time. Furthermore, many organisations such as employers and universities value the Award and what it says about the person who has achieved it.

There are three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold and for each one, students need to complete activities in four different sections: Volunteering, Skills, Physical and Expeditions. KES runs all three awards. At Gold level, students also take part in a residential project.

Normally students start the Bronze Award in Year 9 and the Silver Award in Year 10, which should be finished by the end of Year 11. Pupils can then start the Gold scheme on their 16th birthday. Several King’s Ely International students also start the Award in Year 11. Tim Wyndham-Smith (TimWyndhamSmith@ kingsely.org) leads the Duke of Edinburgh Award at King’s Ely and can usually be found in the Ely Scheme office, near the sports hall. He can be contacted with any questions regarding this award.

Trips

We aim to offer a wide a range of trips and expeditions, both during term-time and in the holidays.

Term-time curriculum-based trips have recently included Cambridge University lectures, art galleries, theatres, parliament, field study centres,the Norfolk coast and further afield to France and Germany and also the Battlefields trip for Year 9 Historians. Trips are also organised for boarders at the weekends. For example, the Cambridge Aqua Park, Paintballing and Go-Karting are popular trips. The Ely Scheme runs a number of expeditions at home and abroad for kayakers, canoeists, hikers and climbers.

During the holidays, departments often arrange regular visits and tours overseas. Recent trips have included a football and hockey tour to the Netherlands, a choir trip to Sicily and a History trip to Berlin and Krakow. ECGC and Choral Scholars recently visited Umbria, in Italy. Each October there is an annual Sixth Form volunteering trip to Kenya.

Ely Cathedral Girls’ Choir

Ely Cathedral’s Girl Choristers sang their first cathedral service in November 2006 and are now firmly established as a central part of the cathedral community, with full parity of duties, esteem, and financial award as the boy choristers. The girls sing four cathedral services each week, and they have also made several critically acclaimed recordings, and regularly broadcast live on BBC radio.

The school is committed to making learning accessible, stimulating, challenging and inspiring, and, in turn, it encourages all pupils to engage with the opportunities around them. Choristers receive a specialist musical education and are treated as professional musicians from the beginning, performing with professional singers, organists, and conductors daily.

Former choristers (both boys and girls) who are successful in auditioning for Sixth Form Choral Scholarships continue to sing in the cathedral choir, alongside the professional lay clerks. By the time they leave the school, they will have gained the expertise and experience needed to carry on to university choral scholarships (recent Sixth Form Choral Scholars have received choral scholarship offers from Cambridge, Oxford, Royal Holloway, and Durham), professional musical careers or any other path they might wish to follow.

A-Z of Important Additional Information

Absence

If a day pupil has to be absent for any reason at short notice, it is essential that parents email absentees@ kingsely.org and copy in their Housemaster or Housemistress before 8.30am. Alternatively you may call the School Office after 8.30am (01353 660700). Any requests for term-time absence should, in the first instance, be addressed to the Housemaster or Housemistress.

Buses

Bus services are available to bring your children to school. The eight routes we have at present terminate/ collect from:

• Downham Market

• Huntingdon

• Chatteris

• Dalham

• Cambridge Science Park

• Trumpington

• Bury St Edmunds

• Swaffham Bulbeck

Please contact Andreas Elia (AndreasElia@kingsely. org or on 01353 660700) if you would like your child to use the bus service. He will be able to give details about pick up times at the start of the day, depending on your location. At the end of the day, buses pick pupils up from the parking bays near the swimming pool at 5.30pm. If it is clear that a bus service from other areas would be of use to you and a sufficient number of other families, we would be very pleased to assess the viability of setting up such a route.

Cars and car parking

With permission, Sixth Form pupils may drive to school. Permission is gained via the Head of Sixth Form or the Sixth Form supervisor. Pupil vehicles can only be driven to and from school, at each end of the working day. They must not be driven around the school or town during the day or with any pupil passengers unless specific permission has been given for a particular reason and only then also with parental consent. Pupil passengers (including siblings) require parental authorisation on the driving form from both parties. Parking for students on site is subject to availability.

Chaplaincy and worship in Ely Cathedral

Christian inspiration is fundamental to King’s Ely. The school recognises that pupils may come from homes which follow other faiths or have no strong religious affiliation. The Chaplaincy is fully involved with pastoral care of the school community. We are blessed that Ely Cathedral is our spiritual home. King’s Ely Senior students meet in the Cathedral each Monday and Friday.

Our School Chaplain is Revd Dr Ros Lane (roslane@ kingsely.org), who is available to meet all members of the school community. Each year she provides the opportunity for pupils to prepare for Communion and Confirmation and leads the School Retreat.

Communication & Email addresses

Email is the primary method of communicating between home and school. We aim to email on Tuesday and Friday evenings in order to avoid overloading parents with emails throughout the week. Emails are sent via KingsPost and are collated for parents to keep them in one place. Please feel free to email your child’s Tutor, HsM or Head of Year, if you have concerns or questions. Each Friday you will also receive a KES Newsletter which includes highlights of the past week and also signposts upcoming events.

Parents will also be emailed automatically via iSAMS (the Management Information System) if their son or daughter receives an Alpha, a merit (a metaphorical pat on the back) or any form of Detention.

Charity

At King’s Ely, we pride ourselves on the contributions we make to the wider community. Primarily run by the students but headed by a member of the teaching staff, the King’s Ely Charity Action Group has been responsible for raising vast amounts of money. The students in all sections of the school generate, plan and carry out fundraising events with good humour and enthusiasm in support of their chosen charity. Most KES houses also sponsor a child as part of their regular giving. We are very proud of the many contributions our students have made to the wider community.

Counselling (see page 15)

Damage and loss of school property

Any damage to school property as a result of inappropriate behaviour will be charged to pupils. School equipment, textbooks and library books which are lost by pupils will also incur a replacement fee. Parents are informed in advance that a charge is to be made.

Ely Scheme (see page 29)

First Aid (See Medical Centre page 33)

Lost Property

All items of personal property should be clearly labelled. Any named items that are found will be returned via the relevant Housemaster or Housemistress. Unnamed items can be collected from the Domestic Services Office (the old Medical Centre, situated near the Sports Hall), which is open 6am to 2.30pm, Monday to Friday. A weekly log of unclaimed items is also sent to pupils.

Library (see page 18)

Meal Times

07:30-08:05 09:00-09:45 (Continental breakfast) 09:00-09:45 (Continental breakfast) Lunch 12:55-13:50 10:30-13:15 (Brunch) 10:30-13:15 (Brunch)

17:45-18:15 17:30-18:15 17:30-18:15

Health and Wellbeing Centre and Medicine

We have many first aid trained staff, one of whom may well be the person who attends to your child in the first instance. We are very fortunate to have a Health and Wellbeing Centre on site in Bishop Woodford House. Whilst our team of medical staff are not able to be consulted by day pupils for known medical needs which should be directed towards their GP, they will give initial attention to pupils if something arises in the course of the day.

If your child has been prescribed medicine that needs to be taken during the school day, these will be overseen by the Health and Wellbeing Centre. Pupils must attend the Health and Wellbeing Centre at the necessary time.

Mobile phones and tablets

The School cannot be held responsible for the care of these devices; the onus is on pupils to take care of their own property, including insurance. Mobile phones can only be used at certain times and this is currently under review. Phones and ear pods / head phones must not be seen as pupils walk around school and may only be used in certain designated areas. We want people to look up and talk to each other.

The following guidelines are for any pupil who decides to bring a mobile phone to school. The pupil must:

• accept full responsibility for looking after the phone. It is also recommended that it is clearly named.

• ensure that the phone is switched off or left on silent during formal occasions such as Cathedral services, assemblies, lessons, activities or Tutor periods.

• not photograph, video or use the audio recording component without the permission of the person being photographed or recorded.

• never take the phone into an examination room.

Using mobile phones to harass or upset other people in any way is an offence punishable by law and by the School. Interfering with, hiding or taking someone else’s mobile phone will be regarded as theft and quite possibly, bullying as well. The use of someone else’s phone without their permission, particularly if that use incurs some cost to the owner, will be regarded as theft.

If a pupil deliberately disregards the stated guidelines, he/she must accept that a teacher will confiscate the phone. The phone may be collected at the end of the day from the School Office, the HsM or Head of Year. For repeat offences a pupil should, in the first instance, expect to receive a school detention and then will be required to hand the phone in each morning. If it is suspected that the phone has been used to take photographs or to film without permission, the school reserves the right to search the phone in the presence of the pupil.

Naming of property

It is essential that clothing, shoes and property are named.

Rewards and Sanctions (see Appendix 2)

Road Safety

Whilst King’s Ely’s classrooms are in an idyllic setting in the shadow of the Cathedral, it does mean pupils have to regularly cross public roads during the school day. There is a 20mph speed restriction on these roads and a zebra crossing between the main school site and the Porta. It is essential that pupils take care when crossing and are courteous to both members of the public and car drivers.

Safeguarding

Our greatest priority is our shared responsibility to keep your child safe. As well as the observance of rigorous Health and Safety policies and the maintenance of security at school, there is our statutory obligation and desire to follow rigorous Child Protection procedures.

The Safeguarding policy is available to parents on the website, or in printed form, if requested. Stringent staff and volunteer recruitment checks are carried on everyone who works at King’s Ely. Charlie Fisher (Deputy Head) is the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the whole school (KEA, KEP and KES). Jonathan Shaw (Head of King’s Ely Senior) and Andy Thomas (Director of Boarding) are Designated Safeguarding Officers at King’s Ely Senior. They keep appropriate records and liaise with external authorities, as required. Should you wish to share a child protection concern, please contact one of these designated members of staff in the first instance.

Social Media

Parents and families are reminded that it is not appropriate to use social networking sites, such as Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, to comment openly on school issues. If at any time you have a concern or complaint, your first port of call should be your child’s teacher or Tutor. If the issue remains unresolved then please consult the head of the relevant section of the school or the Principal of King’s Ely, John Attwater. If you are still dissatisfied then you should put your complaint, in writing, to the Chairman of Governors. The Formal Complaints Policy is summarised on the website.

Furthermore, any conversation that is not protected by a high privacy setting is open to the world. Any negative remarks on social media can be seen as defamation of character, harassment or libel, which means that those responsible for posting such comments could be sued by aggrieved persons or even prosecuted by the police.

The school also advises parents not to upload photographs or video clips of your child which include other children onto social networking sites without the permission of other parents.

Smoking and Vaping

Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere on the King’s Ely campus.

Valuables and Money

The School cannot accept responsibility for valuables or money that pupils bring onto the campus. Should pupils choose to bring in valuables, lockers should be used for their storage, where practical.

Parents should ensure that any valuable items brought into school are covered by their own home insurance policy or individually covered. This includes musical instruments, computing equipment, sports equipment and mobile phones.

Weekends

Whilst we no longer have academic lessons on a Saturday, the weekends are still a busy time. Pupils are expected to be available for sporting fixtures. Play rehearsals and additional study mornings for public exam year groups often take place. There is also a range of optional activities available for boarders at weekends.

Withdrawal or moving on from King’s Ely

If there are circumstances that lead you to change your child’s school, there is a formal procedure to follow. All parents are urged to inform the Head of King’s Ely Senior in advance of a child taking an admission test for another school. The code of conduct between HMC schools requires liaison between the schools before an offer of a place can be made and, for this reason, it is important that we are aware of your plans as soon as possible.

One full term’s notice is required in writing to meet the terms and conditions of the school. Whenever possible, before the final day of the term preceding the one which will be the child’s final term at King’s Ely, your written notice needs to reach the Head of King’s Ely Senior. Your notice will be acknowledged in writing and the Accounts Department will prepare the necessary final invoice for the end of the term concerned.

Please note that, should your notice not be received one full term in advance of your child’s leaving date, one term’s fees will be payable in lieu of notice.

Appendix 1

Uniform regulations

All pupils must be properly and neatly dressed and are expected to take pride in their personal appearance both in school uniform and when wearing casual dress. This is equally important when travelling to and from school. Sixth Formers are expected to present an appearance suitable for a formal working environment throughout the school day

Shirts / blouses must always be tucked in, top buttons done up and trousers /skirts should not be too short. Pupils should always wear a jacket as part of their uniform.

New Uniform

The School’s uniform is available from our online supplier Schoolblazer at www.schoolblazer.com. For a small charge, they also supply and sew on name labels, if requested.

Nearly New Uniform Shop

Our Nearly New Uniform Shop is next to the car park near the Sports Hall. This is run by parent volunteers and is open during term time on Fridays from 3.30pm to 4.55pm. Holiday opening times will be updated on social media and communicated to parents. You are also able to email the team using the following email address kingsnearlynewuniformshop@gmail.com.

Uniform regulations (Years 9-11)

i. All students must wear black polishable shoes with black stitching (not black trainers or boots), conventional design, plain, slim soles and low heeled.

ii. Hair should be kept tidy, of a natural colour and not at the extremes of fashion. Hats should not be worn.

iii. Jewellery, if worn, must be inconspicuous e.g. one pair of small stud earrings, one necklace (which should not sit on top of the uniform). Facial piercings are not permitted.

iv. Pupils are not allowed to wear noticeable make-up. Nail varnish, if worn, must be clear.

v. Students must be clean-shaven.

• Please ensure all uniform and kit is securely named.

• Any item with a * is only available from Schoolblazer.

• Some items may be available at the King’s Ely Nearly New Uniform Shop.

School Uniform

Essential

• Navy pinstripe suit* (skirt or trousers)

• White shirt or collared blouse (available from Schoolblazer)

• KES school tie* (needed with white shirt)

• Black ankle socks or navy / black tights

Optional

• Navy jumper* or navy sleeveless jumper*

• Plain dark coat worn over suit jacket. Pullover / smock coats are not permitted.

• Plain dark scarf

Ely Scheme kit (Year 9)

• Long sleeve navy games shirt* and school training pants* (both can be used for games)

• Navy or black waterproof jacket Sports Kit

Essential

• Mid-layer top and training pants (tracksuit)*

• Navy fitness t-shirt*

• Navy PE shorts* or skort* (Skorts are needed for girls’ hockey/netball matches)

• Navy and duck egg games socks*

• Sports trainers (not fashion trainers)

• Navy or black, one-piece swimwear / swim shorts

• House shirts* (compulsory for Y9s & Y10s)

Optional

• Navy hoodies*

• Long sleeve navy games shirt*

• Reversible rugby shirt*

• Navy crested rugby shorts*

• Full length black plain fitness leggings (only a discreet logo allowed, no mesh)

• Navy base layer top* & base layer shorts*

• Soft shell jacket*

• Football/rugby boots

• Shin pads (compulsory for hockey/football)

• Gum shield (compulsory for hockey & rugby)

*From Schoolblazer only

Dress Regulations (Sixth Form)

The Sixth Form sets the standards for the whole school, both in behaviour and dress. Members of the Sixth Form are expected to present an appearance suitable for a formal working environment throughout the school day. Guidelines cannot be exhaustive, but it is expected that each student will dress according to the spirit, as well as to the letter, of these guidelines.

Students are required to wear the following:

• Plain dark suit (no jersey or leather)

• Collared shirt (with tie for boys). Please note that all students require a white shirt for formal occasions.

• A plain v-neck, smart knitted half-zip or roundneck pullover may be worn under the jacket. Hooded tops, sweatshirts, school sports tops or oversized jumpers are not permitted.

• A smart, plain, neutral coloured coat may be worn over the jacket. It does NOT replace the wearing of a jacket.

• You must wear your jacket at all times when moving around campus.

• Tights must be plain / non-patterned in black, navy or neutral colour. Socks should be of a plain, dark colour.

• Skirt hemlines must fall to below mid-thigh.

• Formal plain black or dark brown shoes of a conventional design (e.g. Oxfords, brogues, court shoes and pump shoes), slim soled and low heeled. Boots, leather sneakers/trainers, canvas shoes are not permitted.

In addition:

• Hair should be kept tidy, of a natural colour and not at the extremes of fashion.

• Jewellery, if worn, must be inconspicuous. Facial piercings are not permitted. Necklaces should not sit on top of uniform.

• Make-up, if worn, should be subtle (e.g. neutral colours, no heavy eye liner/mascara). Nail varnish, if worn, must be clear. False eyelashes and false nails are not permitted.

• Students must be clean-shaven.

Sports kit:

i. You must wear King’s Ely sports kit for games (see Year 9 to Year 11 list).

ii. In the Sixth Form, you will need the following kit as a minimum: Mid-layer top and training pants (tracksuit), fitness t-shirt, shorts or skort, school games socks and sports trainers.

iii. If girls wish to wear leggings, they should be plain black fitness leggings (mesh panels are NOT permitted, and any logo should be discreet). They are available from Schoolblazer.

iv. If you are playing rugby or hockey, you will need to wear the appropriate King’s Ely kit.

Boarding requirements

KES/KEI

• All items brought into school must be clearly named.

• All boarders will be expected to take their belongings home or to guardians at the end of the school year. Storage can be arranged where this is impractical. Boarders will be expected to clear their rooms each term (some items may be stored at Christmas and Easter).

• All boarders have access to a lockable wardrobe. Boarders need to provide their own padlocks for these.

• Electrical adapters are supplied for international appliances.

Clothing

Senior boarders will require the necessary number of uniform items to replace those being laundered. This also applies to sports kit. At weekends and in the evenings, boarders may dress in their own clothes. It is worth remembering that wardrobe space is limited. As with uniform, please ensure that any casual clothes that will be laundered by the school are named.

(All Boarders Years 9 - 13)

Bedding

• 2 duvet covers

• 2 pillowcases

• 2 single sheets (fitted)

This can be bought from stores in town, upon arrival, before term begins

Although the school does provide pillows and duvets, pupils may prefer to bring their own.

Laundry

The school laundry operates a frequent collection and delivery service. All clothing must be colourfast and suitable for machine washing if it is to be accepted by the school laundry. Shirts should be of polyester/ cotton material for easy care.

There is no laundry charge but items which require dry cleaning will be charged to pupils’ accounts. Each Senior boarding house has facilities for pupils to do their own laundry if they so wish.

Appendix 2

Rewards and Sanctions

Rewards

• Merits are a metaphorical ‘pat on the back’ for recognising pupils’ work, effort, contribution to school life, good deeds etc.

• Alphas are given to pupils in Year 9-11 (exceptionally also in Year 12-13) when they perform particularly well academically in terms of effort by producing an excellent piece of work for a pupil of his/her ability.

• Commendations are awarded to the pupils in Years 9-11 who receive the best effort grades or show the most improved effort. A letter is sent home by the Head and Vice Principal Academic.

• Throughout the year, Heads of Year, HsMs, tutors and teachers award Prizes celebrating success in various curricular or co-curricular categories. At the end of each year, at a ceremony in Ely Cathedral, prizes are awarded recognising effort and achievement across all aspects of school life.

• School colours are awarded for performing arts, games and Ely Scheme. Junior Colours (a blue badge) are awarded to pupils in Years 9 and 10. Half and Full Senior Colours (silver or gold badge) are awarded to pupils in Year 11 to Year 13. These are recommended by the staff and announced in assembly. In addition, there are Major School Colours (framed citation) which are awarded by the Head for an exceptional contribution to school life.

• King’s and Queen’s Scholars are admitted to the Cathedral Foundation every November, chosen from the pupils who obtained the best GCSE results the previous Summer. This is the highest academic accolade which can be conferred on our pupils and it brings to the wearers of the coveted red gowns both privileges and responsibilities. At the same time, the two most highly achieving King’s Ely International students will become King’s Ely International Scholars and receive black gowns faced in red.

• Heads of School, School and House Prefects are posts of responsibility that are awarded following the demonstration of consistent good behaviour and strong leadership potential.

Sanctions

We expect all pupils to adhere to school policies, rules and standards. When this does not occur, our first response is to look into the reasons behind the unacceptable behaviour. This will normally be carried out by the Tutor or Class Teacher with the HsM being kept informed. Continuing unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with by the HsM with involvement from the Deputy Head. Parents will be kept informed, so that they may work with the school to provide a consistent framework of behaviour. Where appropriate, counselling or learning support will be offered.

Academic sanctions

• Academic Detentions are used occasionally to enable a pupil to catch up on work during a lunchtime. Serious academic shortfall will result in a Detention after school on Friday afternoon.

• If a pupil’s academic progress is persistently poor through lack of effort parents will be informed. One possible outcome will be that the pupil will be given a Report Card, to be completed by the teacher after each lesson.

• Reprimands are occasionally given when we are concerned about a pupil’s level of effort. It should be noted that a ‘reprimand’ should not be seen as a punishment, but is a way of recording the fact that an intervention has taken place that is aimed at helping the pupil to improve their performance.

• For Sixth Formers, there is a ‘Cause for Concern’ process to identify any students who are falling behind in their work. This is overseen by the Head of Sixth Form.

• Pupils whose academic performance and results give more serious cause for concern may be placed on Vice-Principal’s Report. Weekly reports from subject teachers are monitored by the Head and sent fortnightly to parents.

Behaviour

• A quiet word suffices in most situations, but sanctions are an option, if poor behaviour persists. In the first instance, this is likely to take the form of a short ‘Daily Detention’, for persistent low-level incidents or incorrect uniform. These detentions last for 10 minutes (Single) or 20 minutes (Double) for minor disruption to learning in the classroom. Parents are informed automatically through iSAMS.

• School Detention: This is issued for more serious offences or an accumulation of Daily Detentions. Again parents are informed off this, usually via HsMs. This takes place after school on a Friday. Very serious breaches of discipline are likely to result in a Saturday Detention, which takes place in the Old Palace on a Saturday morning.

Appendix 3

School Rules

Members of the School are expected to display good manners and common sense at all times. It is the duty of each member of the School to be familiar with the School Rules, copies of which are found in the Policy Section of the School Intranet. The Principal is in loco parentis of all pupils while they are at School, whether Boarders or Day pupils; each HsM is responsible for the welfare and safety of all in the House.

King’s Ely Senior Code of Conduct

All involved with King’s Ely are expected to foster a community where kindness, inclusivity and encouragement are witnessed in all of our interactions. Bullying or prejudice, in any form, is unacceptable. The school expects the very highest standards of courtesy and commitment from all involved in King’s Ely. Therefore, as a pupil, please:

• Arrive punctually for all commitments.

• Be polite and courteous to everyone. Hold doors open for each other and guests, look up as you walk around, say hello, thank people; it costs nothing.

• Inform your teacher in person or via email (and give as much notice as possible) if you are aware that you have to miss a lesson, activity or other commitment.

• Always be available to represent the school. If there is an exceptional circumstance, please seek permission from the relevant member of staff well in advance so alternative arrangements can be made.

• Look for opportunities to represent the best of King’s Ely in all your interactions (e.g. on the sports pitch, on school trips, on Barton Square or on public transport).

Remember that we are part of a larger community in Ely and we will be judged by the standards we hold. Be courteous on the train, allow members of the public space on the pavements around school, thank car drivers who stop to allow you to cross, be mindful of others on Barton Square and polite and respectful in the shops.

Prohibited items

It is not possible to write an exhaustive list of items that are not allowed in school. Clearly bringing any illegal item, offensive weapon or items with age restrictions into school would be treated as a serious breach of discipline. Examples would include alcohol, cigarettes, vapes and knives (including penknives). Highly caffeinated energy drinks such as Monster and Red Bull are also prohibited on the school site.

Smoking, Vaping and Drinking

Smoking and vaping are forbidden at school, and whilst a pupil is wearing school uniform and when travelling to and from school. Alcoholic drinks, highly caffeinated energy drinks or other substances designed to affect a pupil’s behaviour, whether currently illegal or not, may not be brought into School. Any illegal act, such as the taking of drugs, will be treated as a serious breach of discipline.

Damage, Breakages and Theft

Damage of property and theft must be immediately reported to your Head of Year, HsM or Tutor on duty. Deliberately downloading any document containing a virus will be considered to be a serious offence.

Motor Vehicles

Members of the school are not allowed to drive, or be passengers in/on, any motor vehicle during the term unless accompanied by a member of staff, a parent or guardian or unless written permission has been received by the school for such an arrangement to take place.

Day Pupils who are required by their parents to drive a motor vehicle to and from school must apply to the Head of Sixth Form or the Sixth Form Supervisor for the necessary application form and a set of guidelines. Pupils must not begin to drive to school until the form has been satisfactorily completed and returned to the Sixth Form Supervisor. Parking may only take place in areas stipulated. Boarding Pupils must first gain permission from their HsM, before following the process above. Motor vehicles may be used for travel only between school and home. Exceptions to these rules may be granted only by the Head of Sixth Form, the Deputy Head or Head.

Attendance at school and school commitments

It is a pupil’s responsibility to attend morning and afternoon registration. Anyone arriving late for school must sign in, at Main Reception (near the Sports Hall) or the Old Palace Reception (near the

Cathedral), immediately. Failure to do so will involve parents receiving a telephone call to determine your whereabouts. Failure to attend any school commitment e.g. a class, games, activity or Cathedral service without permission will be considered to be a serious offence.

It is a privilege to be allowed to miss an academic lesson in order to attend a music or drama lesson. It is your responsibility to seek, well in advance, the permission of the member of staff whose lesson you will miss.

Bounds

Boarders must sign out when visiting town. They should return to house by 6pm and sign in before going to tea. Boarders may not visit the houses of local residents without first consulting their HsMs. Day pupils returning to school in order to attend Sixth Form events in the evening/weekends are under school discipline before and during the session. Cherry Hill, after dusk, is out of bounds to all pupils.

Personal Security

Although Ely is a friendly and safe place, it is essential that pupils take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves. Avoid entering isolated areas of Ely after dusk. When walking to and from town, always walk in groups of two or three. Avoid verbal exchanges with anyone looking suspicious or who might cause trouble.

Signing Out on Weekdays

Boarders must not leave the school after tea without permission. After 4.30pm all day pupils must be signed in, if they wish to remain at school.

Dress and Appearance

Pupils must dress smartly at all times, adhering to the uniform regulations. School dress must be worn when travelling to and from school on public transport. School games kit may be worn on public transport following a games practice after school.

Hair should be of a natural colour and not at the extremes of fashion.

Mobile phones

Pupils’ mobile phones must be on silent whilst at school. Use of phones should not be used in public or whilst walking around school. Boarders may not use mobile phones or lap-top computers after their official bedtime.

Cycling

Bicycles may not be ridden around the campus during the school day. Extreme care must be taken when riding to and from school and down Back Hill in particular. It is strongly recommended that cycle helmets are worn.

Bicycles, scooters and skateboards are not allowed on pavements in/around school.

Appendix 4

Additional Contacts

Reception

• Reception@kingsely.org

• Barton Road Reception - 01353 660700

• Old Palace Reception - 01353 660500

Health and Wellbeing Centre

• MedicalCentre@kingsely.org - 01353 662225 / Extension 3501/3523

John Attwater Principal Principal@kingsely.org

Jonathan Shaw Head

Jane Thomas Vice Principal Academic

JonathanShaw@kingsely.org

JaneThomas@kingsely.org

Charlie Fisher Deputy Head and Designated Safeguarding Lead CharlieFisher@kingsely.org

Hayley Mortimer Deputy Head Co-Curriculum

Matthew Norbury Director for International Students

Andy Thomas Director of Boarding

Elizabeth Bennell Head of Sixth Form and Year 12

Peter Thistlethwaite Head of Year 13

Sue-Ellen Godde Head of Year 11

James Foster Head of Year 10

Scott Mathie Head of Year 9

Jane Parker Director of Drama

Neil Porter-Thaw Director of Music

Alex Meddle Director of Sport

James Houlston Director of Outdoor Education

HayleyMortimer@kingsely.org

MatthewNorbury@kingsely.org

AndyThomas@kingsely.org

ElizabethBennell@kingsely.org

PeterThistlethwaite@kingsely.org

SueEllenGodde@kingsely.org

JamesFoster@kingsely.org

ScottMathie@kingsely.org

JaneParker@kingsely.org

NeilPorter-Thaw@kingsely.org

AlexMeddle@kingsely.org

JamesHoulston@kingsely.org

Jane Halls Sixth Form Supervisor and UCAS Administrator JaneHalls@kingsely.org

Revd Dr Ros Lane School Chaplain RosLane@kingsely.org

Liz Stearn Examinations Officer

Elizabeth Turner Academic and Co-Curricular Operations Manager

Paula Trippett PA to the Head and Deputy Head

LizStearn@kingsely.org

ElizabethTurner@kingsely.org

PaulaTrippett@kingsely.org

Sophie Lane PA to the Vice Principal Academic and SophieLane@kingsely.org Deputy Head Co-Curriculum

Appendix 5

Boarding House Contacts

Etheldreda

Housemistress Melanie Hughes

MelanieHughes@kingsely.org

Resident Rose Burnett RoseBurnett@kingsely.org

Hereward

Housemaster James Houlston

JamesHoulston@kingsely.org

Resident Harrison Palmer HarrisonPalmer@kingsely.org

Hill

Housemistress Sharon Jackson

SharonJackson@kingsely.org

Resident Molly Armstrong MollyArmstrong@kingsely.org

School

Housemaster Devin Oliver

DevinOliver@kingsely.org

Resident Craig Ward CraigWard@kingsely.org

Wendreda

Housemistress Phoebe Bradbury

Resident TBC

Day Houses

Osmond

PhoebeBradbury@kingsely.org

Housemaster Paul Lott PaulLott@kingsely.org

Torfrida

Housemistress Georgina Thorpe

Wilkinson

GeorginaThorpe@kingsely.org

Housemaster Toby Humphry TobyHumphry@kingsely.org

Withburga

Housemistress Helen Briggs

HelenBriggs@kingsely.org

Deputy Housemistress Olivia Worker OliviaWorker@kingsely.org

Term Dates 2024-25

Michaelmas Term 2024

King’s Ely Acremont Term Begins and Nursery Opens 2nd September 2024

Fairstead House Term begins 2nd September 2024

Orientation Day for Pupils+ 2nd September 2024

All other King’s Ely pupils return to school 3rd September 2024

Exeat Weekend* 28th September & 29th September 2024

Mid-term holiday begins 18th October 2024

Mid-term holiday ends 4th November 2024

Exeat Weekend* 23rd & 24th November 2024

Term ends 13th December 2024

Nursery Closes 20th December 2024

Lent Term 2025

King’s Ely & Fairstead House Term begins 6th January 2025

Nursery Opens 6th January 2025

Mid-term holiday begins 14th February 2025

Mid-term holiday ends 24th February 2025

Term ends 28th March 2025

Nursery Remains Open 28th March 2025

Nursery closed on 18th April and 21st April 2025 for Easter

Summer Term 2025

King’s Ely & Fairstead House Term begins 23rd April 2025

Exeat Weekend* 3rd & 4th May 2025

May Day 5th May 2025

Mid-term holiday begins 23rd May 2025

Mid-term holiday ends 2nd June 2025

Term ends 3rd July 2025

Nursery Closes* 8th August 2025

All dates with an * are currently draft dates +Pupils’ Orientation Day

Orientation Day is for the following pupils:

• All new pupils joining King’s Ely Year 4 upwards;

• All pupils who will be in Year 7, Year 9, Year 11 (one year International programme) and Year 12;

• All School Prefects to assist Staff with Pupils’ Orientation Day.

EgremontStreetStMary’sStreet

King’s