AIMS OF KING WILLIAM’S COLLEGE AND THE BUCHAN SCHOOL
As the only independent school on the Isle of Man we provide parents with choice and we seek to offer an education that is distinctive and of the highest quality. We cater for a broad ability range and through our bursary scheme we provide financial support to families who could not otherwise afford independent education.
We are a small school and this encourages a strong sense of community and allows individuals to flourish. As a Christian foundation we believe that education should be of the whole person and we seek to prepare our pupils to be confident and responsible citizens with a life-long love of learning.
A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
We aim to create bonds of friendship and mutual support which will last a lifetime. Our pupils should play an active role in the school community and the world beyond.
ACADEMIC RIGOUR
We aim to offer an education with academic rigour at its heart. This also informs our approach to the curriculum, in particular our endorsement of the values and internationalism of the International Baccalaureate which underpins the education we provide throughout the school.
FOCUS ON THE INDIVIDUAL
We aim to support and stretch the individual. To achieve this aim we need to provide teaching and learning of the highest quality together with appropriate support structures and an extensive enrichment programme.
OPPORTUNITY
We aim to provide an education which offers a wide range of opportunity outside the classroom. So our aim is to offer an excellent programme of sport, drama and music and a broad range of extracurricular activities.
A warm welcome to the King William’s College community!
We are delighted your child will be joining our school and we hope that they are excited for the challenges and successes that lie ahead. We look forward to seeing your child thrive and celebrating their achievements as they progress through the school.
In addition to welcoming new pupils to College, we also believe it is important to welcome the whole family. We very much hope to see you at our many events throughout the year. A weekly newsletter will be sent to you via email, which will outline everything taking place within the school.
We appreciate that there is always a lot of information provided when joining a new school, therefore if you have any questions at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact us.
With best wishes,
DAMIAN HENDERSON Principal
THE SCHOOL DAY
Students should arrive at school by 8.20am. Registration takes place from 8.208.25am and then in every lesson.
Students attend Chapel on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8.30-8.45am and every other Friday from 3.25-4.20pm.
08.20-08.25 Registration
08.30-08.45 Community time
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Fourth Form Assembly (KCT) Whole School Chapel
Fifth Form Tutorial
Year 10 (Middle Fifth) Tutorial
Sixth Form Tutorial
08.50-09.45 Period 1
09.50-10.45 Period 2
10.45 Break
BREAK
11.10 Period 3
Lower Fifth Assembly (Bragg)
Middle Fifth Tutorial
Fourth Form Tutorial Whole School Chapel
Upper Fifth Assembly (KCT)
Sixth Form Tutorial
Fourth Form Tutorial
Lower Fifth Tutorial
Middle Fifth Assembly (Bragg)
Upper Fifth
Sixth Form Tutorial
12.10 Period 4 (end 13.00 for Fourth Form)
13.00 Fourth Form Lunch
13.05 Sixth Form Lunch
13.10 Fifth Form Lunch (Year groups on rotation)
13.45 Lunchtime activities
LUNCH
14.15 Afternoon Registration
14.25 Period 5
15.25 Period 6 (House Time/Chapel on a two week rotation on Fridays)
16:30 - 17:30 After school activities (Some activities end at 18.00, e.g. CCF on a Wednesday)
Afternoon Games arrangements P5/6 (to fit in with island fixtures and avoid taking from academic lesson time):
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday U4 L5/M5 L4 Senior (U5, L6, U6) L5 PE P5
Please be aware that coaches leave promptly at the end of school at 4.30pm and it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that they are there on time.
VIRTUAL TOUR
The tour is available on our website
- Swimming Pool
- Reception/Bursary
- Car Park
- Design & Technology
- Music School
- Jackson House/Medical Centre
- Stenning Fourth Form Centre
- Colbourne House
- West Gate
- King’s Court Theatre (1st Floor)
Scholl Library (Ground Floor)
- Sixth Form Centre
- Catering
- Bragg Lecture Theatre (1st Floor)
- External Relations Office
- Principal’s Office
- Reading Room
- Fifth Form Centre
- Barrovian Hall (1st Floor)
- School House
- Chapel of St Thomas
- Second Pavilion
- Staff Accommodation
- All Weather Pitch
- Tennis & Netball Courts
- Chapel Side Pitch
THE TERM DATES & CALENDARS
Available on our website. THE
UNIFORM
Please see HERE for our school uniform and sportswear lists, which are available to purchase online.
To start to shop please register HERE
Details on how to shop online can be found HERE
If you need assistance please contact Schoolblazer HERE
NAMING CLOTHING
All items must be clearly named, including shoes. PE and games kit should be named inside and outside. Shorts and trousers on the left hand pocket/ leg and polo shirts and tops on the left hand Breast.
ACADEMIC
ASSESSMENTS & RECORDING
ASSESSMENTS
There are regular assessments throughout the year. The assessment consists of a number and a letter grade. The number grade refers to the standard of the pupil’s work during the period of assessment and may, for example, be based on class tests. For the Sixth Form we assess using the IB 1-7 scale, 7 is outstandingly good (similar to an A*) and 1 extremely underperforming; as such, a ‘pass mark’ would generally be considered to be a 4. For all Fourth and Fifth Form assessments, we use a 0-9 scale in line with IGCSE grades. Levels 8 and 9 are outstandingly good (similar to an A*), and 1 or 2 extremely underperforming. A ‘pass mark’ on this scale would also be considered to be a 4.
The letter grade indicates the pupils attitude to learning:
A Exceptional
B Good
C Room for improvement
D Cause for concern
INTERNAL EXAMINATIONS
Mock Exams take place for Upper Fifth and Upper Sixth in the first two weeks of the spring term. Middle Fifth have one mock exam at this time, which is in Religious Studies, because they sit the external exam in the Summer of Middle Fifth.
There are also exams in the second half of the Summer term for all years except the Upper Sixth and Upper Fifth, who have external exams.
Results are also reported on the IB 1-7 scale or IGCSE 0-9 scale.
REPORTS AND PARENTS’ EVENINGS
All pupils have two written subject reports and one parents’ evening per year. They will also receive a tutor report, and assessment grades.
All assessments and reports are now published online through Firefly, the school’s management information system.
Parents’ evenings are run on an appointment basis. Pupils in the Fifth Form and Sixth Form are encouraged to accompany their parents to these evenings.
At other times, tutors, Year Heads and the Deputy Head Academic are always available to give advice on subject options and parents are encouraged to contact the tutor in the first instance with queries. In addition, three booklets are provided giving details of the curriculum: the Fourth Form Guide, Fifth Form Guide (issued to Lower Fifth pupils) and the Guide to the Sixth Form and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (issued to Upper Fifth pupils).
THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREP
Prep (homework) plays a vital part in the structure of the College’s strategy for pupils’ academic development.
In the years up to Upper Fifth, set periods of Prep for each subject are prescribed in the weekly timetable.
In Lower Fourth and Upper Fourth, prep is of 20 minutes duration and there are usually three preps per evening. In Lower Fifth prep, is of 30 minutes duration and there are usually three preps per evening.
In the Middle Fifth and Upper Fifth it is expected that these prescribed prep times represent a minimum study requirement. Preparation for IGCSE examinations, and in particular the increased demands of coursework, will require additional study beyond the two hour minimum each evening.
In the Sixth Form there is no prescribed prep timetable. It is expected that IB candidates should organise their time effectively to cover the written preparation and reading required in their respective subjects, with a target of three hours per night as a guide.
INDIVIDUAL TUITION
SPEECH & DRAMA & MUSIC
SPEECH & DRAMA
Individual or small group tuition in Speech and Drama is available.
Pupils may prepare for LAMDA examinations in Speaking of Verse and Prose, Solo Acting, Combined and Duologue Acting, Public Speaking, Reading for Performance, Mime, Devising, Choral Speaking and Group Performance. Pupils are also encouraged to participate in local and national competitions.
Tuition is charged in advance on the College fee account. If for any reason your child chooses to discontinue lessons, a term’s notice is required, except when lessons are to cease at the end of the school year. In this case notice is required by half term in the summer term.
To arrange individual Speech and Drama tuition please complete the form on Firefly
MUSIC
KWC pupils are actively encouraged to take individual private music lessons in a range of instruments or voice (singing or singing for musical theatre).
Learning an instrument or singing helps pupils to develop life-long skills, including communication, interpretation, team-work and leadership, to name but a few. It helps to nurture a love and enjoyment of music, across all styles and genres, encouraging creativity and tenacity with recent studies concluding a positive impact on academic attainment across all subject areas for those who are involved in music.
Lessons
A team of visiting music teachers, all of whom are specialists in their field, deliver lessons in well resourced individual teaching rooms.
Lessons take place on a rotating timetable during the school day, with lunchtime slots exclusively reserved for pupils in their final year of IGCSE or IB. Each lesson lasts for 30 minutes and there are 30 lessons in the academic year. In certain circumstances, it may be possible to arrange double length lessons.
Dates and times of each pupil’s music lessons are made available to parents in advance and can also be found in the music department.
If a pupil misses a lesson through absence from school or attendance elsewhere, a charge will be made for the missed lesson. However, if seven days advanced notice of planned absence is given to the College Music Secretary by contacting music@ kwc.im or +44 (0) 1624 820445, the teacher will make every effort to make up the lesson at another time, but please be aware this may not always be possible.
If a pupil forgets their instrument or music and the planned lesson cannot take place, it will not be possible to make up this lesson at another time.
Pupils must obtain permission from their subject teacher at least 24 hours in advance.
Performance Opportunitites
There are numerous performance opportunities throughout the school year for instrumentalists and singers and all pupils are actively encouraged to take part. Pupils will also be encouraged to join suitable ensembles and opportunities to perform in a friendly environment are available from the early stages. Pupils have the opportunity to prepare for practical graded exams with ABRSM (The Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music), Trinity Guildhall and London College of Music, with the higher grades attracting UCAS points.
Changes to or Discontinuation of Instrumental Lessons
If for any reason a pupil wishes to change or discontinue lessons, a term’s notice is required in writing to music@kwc.im.
Practice
Each pupil will be encouraged and supported to help develop a productive practice regime to ensure continued progress and ongoing achievement. Parents have a vital role in helping their children to find suitable times for practice and it can be helpful if they are able to be actively involved when and if appropriate – especially in the early stages. Details of weekly practice tasks can be found in the pupil’s notebook.
Instument hire or purchase
Teachers will be happy to offer guidance regarding instrument purchase. In addition, there is a small stock of instruments in the Music Department and information regarding hiring instruments can be obtained from music@kwc.im
Trial Lesson
A free trial lesson is available for any pupil, with further information available via the department.
We look forward to welcoming you to our musical events in the coming year, and wish each pupil every success in their musical journey. To arrange music lessons for your child, please contact music@kwc.im
THE GAMES & SPORT
Games takes place on Monday afternoon for the U4 and Wednesday afternoon for the L4, Tuesday afternoon for intermediates (L5 and M5), and on a Thursday afternoon for seniors (U5, L6 and U6). These days are chosen to fit in with the Island schools’ games days as the most convenient way of encouraging and organising inter-school fixtures. This also ensures on average two hours for Fourth Form, intermediates and seniors of compulsory games time per week. A considerable number of pupils also use their own time for further practice and participation in extracurricular clubs.
Each term has a sport recognised as the ‘main’ sport for boys and girls. In autumn rugby, hockey, basketball and football, in spring football and netball and in summer cricket and rounders.
Groupings for Sport are based on the criteria of age and ability and only in exceptional circumstances may a pupil be selected to play in matches in the next age group up. It should be noted that pupils who are old for their year group will not be eligible for team selection representing their year in fixtures i.e. pupils can only play for the age group in which their age dictates at midnight on the 31st August of that year. These age groupings generally ensure that pupils are playing with pupils who are in the same academic year, but more importantly of a similar physical development and skill level. Using these age groupings means that fixtures are planned on a ‘year’ basis for Year 7 to 10, but at senior level (Year 11 and above) ability is the guiding criterion.
In the ‘main’ sports this allows an average of six school teams to be produced and the majority of the specialist coaching is focused on the teams. Inevitably, in the time available, coaching is geared to producing successful teams and the amount of time per week devoted to skill development is governed primarily by the demands of the fixture list. This perhaps has a greater influence at King William’s College because of our unique island position, which involves lengthy mainland travel to maintain competition and is of necessity somewhat erratic in its nature.
In addition to the school groupings, there is a strong element of Inter-House competition. In most sports there are Senior, Intermediate and Junior Inter-House matches. Some opportunities for mixed sport are also available. For all sport, whether on a school or House basis, there is a standard form of rewarding and recognising success and ability as well as commitment and dedication. On a school basis ‘colours’ are awarded as an appropriate reward for top performances.
To give permission for your son to play rugby at College, please complete the form on Firefly.
Facilities & Equipment
• Gymnasium
• Swimming pool
• Floodlit AstroTurf
• Two Squash Courts
• Three Netball/Tennis Courts
• Fitness Suite
In addition, the College is well provided with grass pitches, which rotate according to the term’s sport as follows:
• Four Football Pitches
• Three Cricket Squares
• Four Rugby Pitches
• One Athletics track with a circle for shot and discuss
Sports Offered
• One Long ump Pit
• Four Rounders Pitches
• Two Cricket Net Areas
For all sports the school provides the appropriate essential equipment including nets, balls, posts, pads, helmets, protective gear, athletic equipment etc. Many pupils choose to purchase their own individual items e.g. hockey sticks, cricket bats and cricket helmets (now compulsory for all batsmen and wicket keepers).
• Athletics
• Football
• Rugby Sevens
• Badminton
• GolGol
• Rugby Union
• Cricket (boys’ and Girls’)
• Hockey
• Tennis
• Cross-county
• Netball
• Table Tennis
• Basketball
• Dance
• Gymnastics
• Rounders
• Swimming
• Water Polo
ARRIVING & LEAVING
SCHOOL
LATE ARRIVALS
Late arrivals must sign in at Reception before proceeding to class. Reception will note this on the electronic register. Failure to register or persistent late arrival at College could lead to disciplinary action being taken.
LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY
Parents must inform the school in writing if they wish to remove their child early from school. Pupils must then proceed to the office and wait to be collected by their parents.
On collecting their child parents should sign their child out using the sign out register.
ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL
ABSENCE FOR HOLIDAY DURING TERM TIME
Statutory provision regarding holidays taken by pupils during term time is contained in the Education (Registration of Pupils) Regulations 2004, which state that: “On application made by the parent with whom the child normally resides, a pupil may be granted leave of absence from the school to enable them to go away on holiday. Provided that, save in exceptional circumstances, a pupil shall not be granted leave of absence for this purpose for more than 10 school days in any school year.”
Leave of absence for holiday purposes is not an entitlement and is entirely at the discretion of the Principal. Each request will be considered on its individual merits, and the Principal will determine whether the circumstances of a particular application are “exceptional” if more than 10 days’ absence is involved. Authorised leave of absence for in excess of 10 school days annually will not be granted lightly.
ABSENCE FOR OTHER REASONS
All requests for absence of one whole day or more should go via the Principal’s Office in advance.
Boarding students must request early leave and late arrivals with the Head of Boarding.
You can view the Attendance and Registration Policy on the website here
UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES
To send apologies for absence (due to illness or any other unforeseen circumstance) please email absentees@kwc.im
The College formally registers all pupils twice a day (morning and afternoon). Any absences are followed up with a text alert to parents and the College’s Missing Student Procedure.
FEES REFUND SCHEME
The absence of a pupil does not lessen the cost of running the school and fees are not refundable if a pupil is unable to attend classes due to sickness, accident or quarantine. The school is, however, able to make refunds through the Fees Refund Scheme. For further information please contact the Bursary at accounts@kwc.im or +44 (0) 1624 820424
FIREFLY
PARENT PORTAL
The school’s Firefly Parent Portal allows parents to see up-to-date information about their child or children and be kept informed of relevant school information, that we hope parents will find useful.
This includes:
• Pupil timetables (KWC only)
• Attendance/Registration
• Reports, assessments and internal exam results (for viewing/downloading)
• Termly calendars
• School forms
• Coach timetables
• Activities
• Copy of emails sent out to parents
• Staff contact information
Parents can log onto the Parent Portal and find this information from a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. Parents can also log onto the site using the Firefly App for iOS Apple or Android.
For further information about Firefly and how to get started, please visit here
EDUCATION ACT
It is a legal requirement under the Education Act for all parents or guardians of children, in the age range of four to 16 years old, who live on the Isle of Man and who are being educated independently to register this with the Department of Education, Sport and Culture. The registration form that needs to be completed is available to download from the Department’s website
EXTRACURRICULAR
Extracurricular activities take place at lunchtimes; Monday to Friday from 1.45pm to 2.10pm for the whole school, and after 4.20pm when required. Sport practices and Music practices take place at lunchtimes and after school, as scheduled by the Director of Sport and Music respectively. All pupils are encouraged to choose an activity – some are exclusively for particular year groups.
LEARNING SUPPORT
The Learning Support Department aims to provide each pupil with an inclusive education, enabling the individual to feel that they have a valuable part to play within the academic, sporting, social and cultural environment of the school. As the Specialist Assessor within College, the Head of Learning Support carries out assessments and tracks the progress of pupils with difficulties for whom access arrangements in internal and external examinations may be required. However, if further advice and support for any learning difficulties is required from outside services, such as those of an Educational Psychologist, parents are expected to meet these costs. On entry, the Department assesses the literacy skills of the entire Lower Fourth year group, which assists with further identification and setting in English.
The type of support offered is designed to suit pupil needs and may be given in a withdrawal setting, either individually or in a small group, in a lunchtime ‘booster’ sessions or, if possible, with in-class support taking place in Maths.
Teaching is aimed at improving areas of weakness, enabling pupils to cope with academic demands and encouraging the highest standard of work throughout all subject areas so that the individual achieves his/her potential. The Department is well-resourced with a variety of effective, structured programmes of work and materials to develop skills and thereby enhance the selsft eem of the individual through the progress they achieve and the encouragement offered.
ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL)
The aim of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Department is to support pupils for whom English is not the first language.
Such support focuses primarily on enhancing pupils’ vocabulary, grammar and expression, to facilitate the smooth transition of ESOL pupils into academic studies. It also aims to build pupils’ confidence in using the English language, so that pupils can participate in all aspects of College life.
The ESOL Department offers several courses to help our pupils improve their English, including Cambridge IGCSE course (U5), IELTS course (L6 and U6) and individual or small group lessons to target specific skills.
All pupils whose first language is not English are assessed at the beginning of the academic year. On the basis of this assessment they may then be required to attend intensive one-to-one or small group lessons to develop their oral or written skills. There is a separate charge for these lessons. If it is advised your child would benefit from ESOL lessons, you will of course be contacted before any commitment is made.
For more information please contact the Head of Overseas Pupils Sonja Ellson at sonja.ellson@kwc.im
PERSONAL, SOCIAL, HEALTH & ECONOMIC
EDUCATION
Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) offers pupils and teachers the opportunity to explore a wide spectrum of social, moral, cultural and economic issues, whilst developing the tutor tutee relationship. We are members of the PSHE Association and welcome seventeen qualified specialists to talk on a range of subjects throughout the year in concurrence with our teacher led lessons.
The new Scheme of Work for PSHE takes advantage of the timetabled tutorial slot, to incorporate aspects of personal, social and economic well being and financial capability. The Sixth Form will also take advantage of a tutorial lesson in order to continue with their existing tutorial programme. In addition, PSHE is now taught on a rotating weekly timetable.
PHILOSOPHY
PSHE at King William’s College is taught in a climate of mutual trust and respect, which values all individuals and their cultures, and demands excellent communication between staff and pupils.
AIMS
The PSHE curriculum is designed to assist in the full development of each individual pupil at King William’s College. Schemes of work focus on the suggested range and content in the National Curriculum Programme of Study (as set out by the Department of Education in the UK), as well as incorporating national and cultural focus days, for example, National Anti-Bullying week, Fairtrade Fortnight, European Day of Languages, Holocaust Memorial Day etc
Overall we aim to:
• Encourage the development of thoughtful, well-rounded and outward looking and sociable citizens, who will take their place in the world, aware of the role they can play.
• Develop in our pupils the power to question and argue rationally and the qualities needed for decision making and leadership, thereby fostering their ability to resolve conflict within their own environment, amongst friends and within the classroom.
• Engender in pupils a sense of responsibility towards themselves, their peers and their surroundings. • Help pupils develop respect for the needs of others, particularly those of different religions and cultures.
• Provide necessary health and Relationshipand Sex Education (RSE) in a manner appropriate to the age and development of the pupils.
• Equip pupils with the organisational and study skills which will enable them to succeed in their work.
BOARDING AT COLLEGE
There are many reasons why students, and parents, decide to give boarding a try. These motives include access to academic staff and facilities, development of social skills, greater independence and personal responsibility.
The boarding community at College is a vibrant mix of ages from 11 to 18, an array of nationalities and a whole host of personalities. Within this positive and supportive environment, our boarding tutors and House staff, uphold and nurture the key tenets of boarding house life including: respect for others, tolerance, inclusion, trying one’s best and pursuing one’s aims and ambitions. Our boarding staff are ably supported by a community elected Head of House and Boarding House Committee.
Our boarding community is strong, with space for over 65 boarders as either full, weekly or flexiboarders. We aim to place boarders in rooms with a different nationality to encourage good practice of English, and year groups are roomed together.
Upper Sixth boys and girls are usually given a single room, to aid their academic focus in the important final year of the IB. Accommodation in both houses has seen a number of recent refurbishments and we have a good mixture of single, double and a few triple bedrooms, in both Houses.
Boarders have set, supervised prep periods during the week, both juniors and the older pupils share studies to aid integration. We encourage participation in extra-curricular activities and weekly boarding activities, such as yoga, prefect led mid-week fun, and swim sessions, and plan weekend activities termly to encompass a diverse range of preferences.
House spirit, House teamwork, collective responsibility and high standards of behaviour are expected and monitored by House staff and pupils alike. We pride ourselves in taking care of the individuals in our Boarding Houses, and allowing them the time and space to flourish, whilst also being challenged to work hard and try new experiences.
To find out more about boarding please contact Head of Boarding Susie Parry at susie.parry@kwc.im.
COACH & MINI BUS SERVICE
The College runs a minibus and coach service. The school coach goes down the east coast to Douglas and Onchan.
In addition to the coach service, we also provide a Mini Bus service from Ramsey through Kirk Michael and Foxdale to King William’s College, and another which runs from Peel through Glen Vine via the College to The Buchan School. Children coming on any service via KWC can transfer to the minibus going to The Buchan. We also provide a dedicated Mini Bus Service, for Buchan pupils only, from Douglas to The Buchan School on a daily basis. Details of these services can be provided on request.
Coaches and Mini Buses will only stop at the designated stop-off points on the schedule, and for road safety reasons we regret that it is not possible for the drivers to make unscheduled stops. All children are required to wear their seatbelts. The charges are added to the fee bills termly in arrears. Coaches can be booked termly, part booked or ad hoc subject to availability. All trips must be booked.
Further details are available from coaches@kwc.im or +44 (0) 1624 820455
CHAPEL OF ST THOMAS
We are privileged to have our own beautiful Chapel at King William’s College. Here many school days begin with worship enabling us to recognise both the Christian heritage and the Christian foundation of the College. These brief services are designed to be thought provoking and to prepare each of us for the day - giving the opportunity to sing heartily, hear a reading and to offer prayers for ourselves and the world. Our Anglican identity uses forms of Service that welcome all in College, of any denomination or none, to take part.
While the Chaplain oversees services in school, there is a small team of pupil Chapel Wardens, who assist in the day-to-day running of Chapel. All members of the College are encouraged to make their contribution to our corporate worship, through readings, prayers, as a member of Chapel Choir or in sharing their particular passion of faith and charity.
Each week there is a full service, three times a term this takes the form of a Holy Communion when all are welcome to receive Communion or a blessing.
An annual Confirmation Service is conducted by the Bishop of Sodor and Man in St Thomas’ Chapel. The Chaplain’s Confirmation Classes, which include a day pilgrimage to some of this Island’s Keeills, a movie morning and a late afternoon retreat exploring silence and prayer, prepare those who wish to be Confirmed into full membership of the Anglican Church. All are invited to consider taking this step.
We support a number of charities during the College year. Many are chosen by the pupils who are encouraged to respond compassionately to needs across the globe. A weekly collection is taken at the Friday Chapel Service; occasional fundraising activities augment these collections. Generosity of spirit and the desire to serve are a part of the challenge Jesus’ ministry sets us, as well as being part of King William’s College Christian identity.
NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL
King William’s College and The Buchan School follow the standard practice of independent schools, whereby one full term’s notice is required of a pupil leaving. One term’s fee is payable in lieu of notice.
In order to officially provide the School with confirmation of final notice or provisional notice, the Pupil Final Notice Form must be completed. The information requested is a regulatory requirement and therefore must be provided in order for the school to complete its process of withdrawal. For further information please contact notice@kwc.im.
GOVERNANCE
The school’s Board of Governors is responsible for working with King William’ s College and The Buchan School to ensure it delivers a good quality education. Together with the Principal, who is responsible for day-to-day management, it sets the school’s aims and policies, monitors and evaluates the progress the school is making towards achievement of its aims and is a source of challenge and support. To contact the Chairman of Governors please email bursar@kwc.im.
GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS ON PHOTOGRAPHS & VIDEOS
Parents will inevitably wish to take photographs and occasionally video clips of their children as they take part in school events. We ask everyone who does this to be mindful that shots or film may include other children. If other children feature, the material should not be posted on the internet or any social media site, but be reserved for family albums or electronic folders at home.
SCHOOL POLICIES
Regulatory information and the school’s policies are available from our website.
PARENT CONTRACT
Our Parent Contract is available on Firefly
SCHOOL RULES
The purpose of these rules is to ensure that in the environment provided and the relationships developed, pupils learn to respect each other, those in the wider community in which they live and their surroundings, in a manner which balances ambition with a sense of duty, friendliness and community.
GENERAL
In all matters concerning behaviour, care and consideration for others and for the good name of King William’s College must be of paramount importance and any actions which could bring discredit to the College, whether committed within or without College, will be dealt with by such consequences as are deemed to be appropriate to the situation. The primary aim of any consequence is to restore trust and provide an opportunity for self reflection and improvement. Any action which breaks the law of the land will automatically be deemed to be discreditable. Certain matters will always be treated as serious, such as smoking, the possession or use of drugs and other illegal or potentially harmful substances, sexual impropriety, bullying (including prejudicial or intimidating behaviour), theft and the carrying of offensive or potentially injurious materials. Some of these are spelt out in separate policy statements and should be regarded as addenda to these rules. Other matters which bring discredit and amount to unacceptable behaviour will be judged on the circumstances.
For your guidance, specific rules, regulations and guidelines concerning various aspects of College life are as follows:
ATTENDANCE
• Pupils must attend all lessons, chapel, assemblies and meals.
• All pupils must register twice during the course of each school day. Morning registration takes place at 8.20am, afternoon registration at 2.10pm.
• Late arrivals must sign in at Reception before proceeding to class.
• Failure to register or persistent late arrival at school will lead to disciplinary action being taken.
• School must be notified of all absences.
• Pupils who need to leave the school premises before the end of the school day must first obtain permission from their Year Head and then sign out of school in Reception.
• Pupils must arrive at lessons, punctually and properly equipped.
• At the beginning and end of term, any pupil who needs to return to school late or depart from school early must obtain permission from the Principal in advance. Boarders must work with the Head of Boarding in providing their travel details.
• All pupils are required to attend all meals, to which they are entitled, unless permission has been given by their Year Head or the Head of Boarding for alternative arrangements to be made.
• Concerning patterns of attendance may be referred to the Department of Social Care Early Help and Support team, or the Educational Welfare Officers.
VEHICLES
Rules for pupils driving to and from King William’s College require him/her:
• To have submitted a completed “Driver and Passenger Permission Form” to the Deputy Head Pastoral. This permission will be withdrawn if the pupil fails to obey school rules with regard to driving.
• To use the car only for travel to and from College and not to use the car to leave the site during the normal school day without the express permission of the Head of Sixth Form or the Boarding House Staff as appropriate.
• To park in the approved areas.
• Never to give lifts to other College pupils unless the written permission of the parents concerned has been logged with the Deputy Head Pastoral.
• To drive in a manner which shows consideration towards others and with due regard to safety.
• To ensure that the vehicle is in a roadworthy and safe condition.
DRESS
• Pupils are expected to adhere to the school dress regulations (including games kit). It is expected that normal school uniform will be of a standard that would be respected in the smartest office environment.
• Persistent failure to comply with these rules may lead to the pupil concerned being sent home until such time as they do comply.
• All items of clothing should be clearly named.
• Lunch in the Barrovian Hall must be in full school uniform (including jacket)/ College tracksuit. Headgear and scarves may only be worn outside.
• Pupils attending school events outside normal school hours must attend in uniform unless otherwise advised.
• Hair – pupils’ hair must be clean, neat and tidy, and of a natural style and colour acceptable to the Principal. Students below the Sixth Form with long hair must wear it completely tied back (e.g. plaits or pony tail). All students must be clean shaven.
• Skirts must be an appropriate length –rolled up, or short skirts are not acceptable. Skirts should be worn from on or just above the knee. Please remember that the guide here is – “would the strictest critic accept this?”
• Headphones - must not be worn in public areas.
• Jewellery – pupils may wear the following: one pair of sleepers or plain studs worn in the lower part of each ear lobe, and one ring.
• Make-up must be minimal, discreet and natural.
• Below Sixth Form, coloured nail varnish and false nails must not be worn.
• There are occasional optional non-uniform days where own clothes may be worn in exchange for a donation to charity. Sometimes a theme for the day may be announced, but dress appropriate to the school environment must be worn. It would not be appropriate to wear “croptops” or “beachwear” for example. If a pupil is unsure about what is appropriate, they are advised to check in advance with their Head of Year in order to avoid any possible embarrassment.
HEALTH
• The College Medical Centre exists to provide nursing care for the KWC boarding community and is on hand to provide emergency first aid for day students, staff and visitors when required.
• Pupils must adhere to the published surgery times except in an emergency.
• A visit to the Medical Centre during lessons or immediately prior to a lesson requires permission from the member of staff who is, or will be, teaching the pupil concerned.
• Day pupils are to inform Medical Centre Staff if they have any medication which needs to be taken while they are at school.
• Boarders’ medicines must be declared to Medical and House staff.
• On days when Games are played a LeaveOff Games chit needs to be obtained if a pupil is unwell or injured. Parents of Day Students must inform the games teacher by email/letter that if their child is unable to take part that day. Boarding pupils will be given a chit from the Medical Centre if deemed necessary. All pupils who are unable to participate in Games must report to their Games teacher with their chit prior to the start of each and every Games session. Pupils should be aware that the Medical Centre can only excuse students who are genuinely ill or have a medical appointment.
FOOD
• Food and/or drinks must not be taken out of the Barrovian.
• Eating and drinking in libraries, computer rooms, Stenning, Fifth Form Centre, King’s Court Theatre, Bragg Lecture Theatre, classrooms and walking around College is not allowed.
• Chewing gum is not permitted anywhere on campus.
• Bottles of water are allowed at the discretion of the teacher.
DETENTION
• Whole school detention takes place on Friday between 4.30 and 5.30pm. A minimum of 24 hours notice will be given by Year Heads if a pupil is required to attend.
• Full school uniform will be worn by pupils in Friday detention.
• Year Group detentions are held in the Year Group Centres.
PROPERTY
• All pupils are allocated a locker in which to store their property – these should be kept locked. It is the responsibility of the individual to provide their own padlock.
• Valuable property should be handed to Year Heads, or House Master/Mistress in the case of boarders, or be kept under lock and key.
• All personal property should be clearly named.
• It is not sensible to carry more than £5 on the person.
• Mobile phones – Pupils may bring their phones into school but this is at their own risk. Fourth Form Students must have their phones switched off during the school day. The use of mobile telephones in public areas is at the discretion of the teacher in charge of the lesson/activity at the time.
• Sale of goods to other pupils may not occur without the permission of the Year Head.
• Valuables brought in to school are brought in entirely at the pupils’ own risk. However the suspected theft of any such personal property must be reported to the Year Head without delay, in which case every attempt will be made to locate it. Pupils should then retrace their movements checking in every place where they may have left their belongings. Most frequently, items reported as stolen have indeed been misplaced.
BREAKAGES
• Please report breakages immediately to the appropriate Year Head.
SOCIAL EVENTS
• Approval from the Principal must be sought before College social events involving pupils are arranged.
• Alcohol may only be served at such events at the discretion of the Principal and in accordance with the law of the land.
• Approval will not be granted without agreed adequate adult supervision.
BOUNDS
• Pupils may not leave the bounds of the College during the school day without the permission of their Year Head, Tutor or Boarding HM and must sign out and in again in the designated area.
• Classrooms without a member of staff present and any other room other than the public rooms of the pupil’s own Form Centre and the School are out of bounds.
• Pupils are not to visit the kitchens, maintenance staff blocks, Junior House or the Pavilions unless directed to by a member of the teaching staff.
• The following areas may be used for recreational purposes during break times, weather permitting: front Chapel, tennis courts, field area opposite the Bursary and the grass area outside Stenning Fourth Form Centre.
• Day pupils wishing to visit the boarding houses must be accompanied by a boarding pupil and have permission from the boarding house duty tutor.
• Pupils, not part of an expedition or trip, are not allowed to visit participants on such expeditions or trips at any time without permission from the teacher in charge. This includes campsites, whether in or out of School.
The good name of the School depends upon the pupil. The good manners and consideration of College pupils are often favourably commented on and this is a fine tribute to many. The rules are not designed unnecessarily to restrict freedom of activity, but to ensure personal safety, the primacy of academic and cultural activities, respect for others, and above all the continuation of good manners within the community. Much else is a matter of custom, rather than regulation, and in the observance of the rules, pupils are expected to follow the spirit, as well as the letter, of the law.
COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
INTRODUCTION
The cocurriculum is a vital part of the College’s broad-based curriculum which has a focus on developing skills and attributes beyond the classroom and which helps our pupils become well-rounded individuals who can confidently contribute at KWC and beyond. The pastoral aims of Kindness, Wellbeing and Challenge sit at the heart of our co-curricular activities and transferable skills such as problem-solving, critical and creative thinking, communication and teamwork are developed through our programme to pupils of all ages. We aim for our pupils to have the confidence to take healthy risks through balanced, knowledgeable and reflective reasoning. Our dedicated staff offer a wide range of cocurricular activities and we strongly encourage all pupils to make the most of the opportunities available to them. We expect each pupil to take part in at least three different types of activity in school during the academic year, one for each the following components: Kindness, Wellbeing and Challenge (which should involve altruism/assistance, creativity and exertion). In tutorials, the pupils will reflect on why it is an act of Kindness, Wellbeing or Challenge.
KINDNESS
This involves putting others before yourself. To count as a true act of kindness or altruism/assistance, a person must receive no recompense such as gifts or money for their actions. Pupils are encouraged to take part in an act of kindness outside of the school community. This can take many forms but will involve the pupil giving up their time to help someone achieve something meaningful.
WELLBEING & CHALLENGE
Creativity includes any activity where a pupil creates something like art, music or a drama production, but also learning a new skill outside of normal school lessons. Exertion involves either a physical or mental effort. Pupils can choose to fulfil this component by doing either or both elements if they so wish. Physical exertion will involve a physical activity that increases the heart rate but mental exertion can involve any activity where the pupil is doing something academic such as clubs and clinics that are run outside of lessons at College.
COMMITMENT
Fourth Form and Lower Fifth are expected to take part in a minimum of three activities in school per weekee Fifth Form are expected to participate in a minimum of two activities in school per week.
Sixth Form are encouraged to take part in and organise activities for the younger pupils.. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils who wish to run an activity which may also assist their own CAS contribution for the IB.
PRIORITY TIMES
Some activities are deemed priority activities within the school. For example, Music and Drama rehearsals, confirmation class, CCF and after school sports team practices have priority over other activities. Lunchtime sport is not a priority activity. We want pupils to have as wide a range of experiences as possible and therefore if there is a clash of priority activities, a compromise will always be brokered so that both activities can be experienced.
KINDNESS
MODEL KINDNESS
Lead by example and show everyone else what being kind looks like.
ENCOURAGE KINDNESS
Have an expectation that others will be kindcarry out acts of kindness.
NOTICE KINDNESS
Recognise and praise others when you notice them being kind.
STAND UP FOR OTHERS
Give support to others and let them know they are not alone.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Do not expect perfection.
Challenge yourself while looking after your wellbeing.
WELLBEING
MIND YOUR HEAD!
Connect with the people around you. Be active. Go for a walk or run, cycle, play a game, garden or dance. Take notice. Be observant, look for something beautiful or remark on something unusual. Keep learning.
Give what you can: time, patience, and understanding. Be kind.
CHALLENGE
SET YOURSELF GOALS
Everyone has their own goals. What can you do to challenge yourself?
BE REALISTIC
Consider having four realistic goals at a time: academic, mental, social and physical.
BE RESILIENT
What do you do when you face a challenge? What do you do when things do not go to plan?
BE DETERMINED
If at first you do not succeed, try, try again.
CHOICES
At the start of each term, each pupil is asked to discuss the activities choices with their parents and their tutor to decide what they would like to do that term. We encourage at least a half term commitment to an activity before requesting a change and once a commitment has been made, we expect a dedication to that activity. It is important to challenge ourselves and to try something new for an appropriate length of time.
MEDICAL
Prior to joining the school, parents will have completed the Medical Questionnaire There are three registered nurses on a rota in the KWC Medical Centre. The hours of the Medical Centre are 8am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday and a nurse is on call for boarding pupils from 5.00pm until the following morning, when the Medical Centre is then open. There is also medical cover at weekends for the boarding community. The Medical Centre contact number is +44 (0) 1624 820451. The Medical Centre has accommodation in order to allow unwell boarders to rest during the school day and to prevent the spread of infection in the boarding houses. If infection is suspected pupils may need to stay over night in a sick-bay bed; this is the Medical Centre’s decision.
PUPILS MUST:
• Make the Medical Centre aware of any medications they need to carry with them during the day and have with them in boarding. Older pupils may self medicate, however the Medical Centre needs to be made aware of this and pupils need a self medication assessment signed off.
• Make the Medical Centre aware immediately if they have any allergies. If they have an ‘Epipen’ two should be carried with them at all times. A spare emergency autoinjector pen may be held in the Medical Centre.
• Inform the Medical Centre if they are Asthmatic. If an inhaler has been prescribed one should be carried with them at all times and one kept in the Medical Centre if desired by parents (and boarding house if applicable). Emergency salbutamol inhalers may be kept in the Medical Centre.
• Inform the Medical Centre if they have any other medical issues that the school may need to be aware of and provide up to date care plans.
The Medical Centre provides a confidential service to all pupils. However, in line with common law, the Medical Centre and/or the school’s Medical Officer will discuss with the pupil’s parents or guardian, the Principal or Housemaster/ Housemistress, any confidential information if it is considered to be in the best interests of the pupil or to the school community.
The Medical Centre deals with medical issues for all boarders and day pupils if needed. The nurses will liaise with other professionals on the Island when required and are also available for advice for all pupils, staff and parents. The Medical Centre cannot normally excuse day pupils from Games and PE lessons, this is parental responsibility.
Weekend medical cover is 24 hours on call, with a nurse sometimes onsite during the day including cover for sport fixtures.
The Medical Centre covers some home sport fixtures and are pitch side, unless there is an emergency or a pupil in the Medical Centre. The Medical Centre can give advice as needed. All sport teachers are first aid trained.
All the nurses are qualified registered nurses with the required NMC revalidation requirements. They regularly attend first aid registration and relevant school nurse courses and training, they work within the NHS and other outside settings when they are not in school, which enables them to keep up to date with other nursing skills.
ASTHMA & ALLERGIES
If your child has asthma and uses an inhaler the Medical Centre will need an asthma action plan. These can be obtained from your child’s consultant, GP or downloaded from the Asthma UK website.
The Medical Centre also require pupils with allergies to provide an allergy action plan. These can be obtained from your child’s consultant, GP or downloaded from here. Children that carry an autoinjector should be seen annually by their health care professional to ensure that the care is up to date and appropriate. It is the parents’ responsibility to provide the Medical Centre with up to date medications, such as inhalers and autoinjectors (Epipens).
CARE OF TEETH & EYESIGHT
All pupils should register with a dentist at home and should visit the dentist during the holidays on a regular basis. All overseas boarders will need to have private dental care if treatment is needed long term.
The Medical Centre can usually arrange an emergency NHS appointment within 48 hours for a one-off treatment, such as an emergency filling. A course of treatment or orthodontic treatment will need a pupil to be registered at a private clinic, which will involve a cost to the parents or private dental insurance. Private dental clinics can be found online.
Routine assessment of spectacles should be undertaken during the school holidays. The local optician will see boarding pupils who have an urgent problem with their eyesight or glasses.
BARROVIAN ALUMNI
It is important that every student that attends King William’s College and The Buchan School knows that wherever their lives may take them, they belong to an extended school family.
The existence of our active alumni community is a testament to the loyalty and affection former pupils have for the school. Many of them stay connected with us and enjoy the continued contacts and friendships made during their school days.
Benefits of staying in touch with us include:
• A digital copy of the Barrovian magazine each year.
• Regular news updates.
• Invitations to alumni events, providing opportunities to socialise and network.
• Invitations to select school events.
• Eligibility to apply for our three month summer internship with Strix in Hong Kong.
• Option to become an Alumni Ambassador or Year Group Rep.
• Parent membership of the Past Parents’ Association.
• Opportunity to be married in the Chapel of St Thomas.
If you have any questions regarding alumni relations please contact the External Relations Office at alumni@kwc.im or +44 (0) 1624 820470. You can also find more information on our website.
FRIENDS
Friends at Buchan and King William’s College is a strong and dedicated committee of parents, teachers, alumni and supporters whose aim is to build community spirit and raise funds to benefit the School. While our School provides pupils with the essentials for learning, Friends endeavour to facilitate those added extras which benefit the whole school and wider community. Friends also encourage our community to mix together through a wide variety of social and fundraising events and activities, such as the Christmas Fair, Summer Ball and various other events held throughout the year.
Thanks to past generous donations, we have been able to refurbish the Buchan Library, upgrade our ICT technology, purchase more learning resources for the Science Lab and purchase new outdoor play equipment.
If you have a fundraising idea or would like to get involved with Friends, please contact foundation@kwc.im.