International Admissions Guide 2020-21

INTERNATIONAL ADMISSIONS GUIDE 2020-2021

WELCOME We are delighted that you are representing Leweston School to our international families.

Leweston has been a presence in the independent school sector since 1891. It is a thriving school with a rich history, providing an outstanding education for British and International pupils, with over 50 years experience teaching English as an Additional Language.

As a small school with a strong sense of community, Leweston is home to many overseas pupils and attracts students from all points of the compass. Our international students are an important part of our friendly, diverse community.

The last boarding inspection conducted by the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate highlighted how well our overseas students were welcomed, how well they integrated and how much they enjoyed their time boarding at Leweston.

We hope this Handbook will give you detailed information about Leweston and what we can offer, as well as information on entry requirements, process and ethos. Our dedicated Admissions team look forward to working with you over the next academic year.

John Paget-Tomlinson Headmaster

LEWESTON AT A GLANCE Size: Prep (5 to 11) 152

Senior (11 to 18) 276

Sixth Form (16-18) 52 Location: Dorset, South West England Curriculum offered: GCSE, A Levels and BTEC Founded: 1891 Religion: Catholic but welcoming to all denominations and none Nationalities: We are excited to welcome students from around the globe. In September 2020 we will have pupils from Albania, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan and the UK. Leweston is: • • • • • • • • •

A welcoming community with a strong ethos built on the importance of service to others.

An academic environment where pupils achieve above expectations.

An inclusive school which encourages pupils to try all of the opportuinities open to them.

Focused on the individual, with dedicated academic and pastoral staff who know every pupil.

A beautiful, inspiring and safe environment to learn and grow.

One of only 9 specialist Pentathlon academies in the UK with local, national and international sports competitors.

A creative environment with specialist Art, Design, Drama and Music teaching.

A busy school with a comprehensive extra-curricular and academic enrichment programme beyond the classroom.

A competitively priced boarding experience which recognises the importance of value for money.

LOCATION Leweston is situated three miles outside of Sherborne, in Dorset. Sherborne is an ancient market town with an abundance of medieval buildings, nationally famous Abbey, picturesque Almshouse and two castles. It regularly appears in film and television. There is a strong music, arts and cultural life in the town and local area.

Only half an hour away from Leweston is the Jurassic Coast, England’s first World Heritage Site. The 95 mile coastal stretch between Exmouth and Studland Bay provides stunning cliff walks and secluded bays with plenty of opportunities for fossil hunting. A fantastic resource for Geography and Biology fieldtrips and well as fun days on the beach. The school also has Dorset’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close by as well as countless museums, galleries, National Trust properties and Natural Reserves.

Travelling to Leweston The School postcode is DT9 6EN. Leweston is on the A352 between Sherborne and Dorchester and is within easy reach of the A303 and A35 arterial routes. Traffic dependent, London is approximately two hours’ drive, Bristol just over an hour and Exeter one hour and a half.

Location

Journey Length

Distance

London Heathrow

2 hrs

177 km

London Gatwick

2 hrs 30 mins

218 km

London Waterloo

2 hrs 14 mins

207 km

Southampton Airport

1 hr 30 mins

106 km

Exeter Airport

1 hr 20 mins

85 km

Bristol Airport

1 hr 20 mins

74 km

Bournemouth Airport

1 hr 10 mins

68 km

FACILITIES Leweston sits in 46 acres of beautiful Dorset parkland providing a wealth of outdoor learning opportunities.

As a through-school pupils of all ages can access a range of facilities often unavailable to individual Prep or Senior Schools or independent Sixth Form Colleges.

The Prep School is located in the former Coach House with: • • •

dedicated tennis and netball courts. a Victorian walled garden play area. an ‘Enchanted Wood’ for Forest School with full outdoor classroom.

The Senior School is centred on the Grade I listed Manor House and houses: •

• •

a new Music School with individual and whole class teaching rooms, ensemble rooms and recording studio. the impressive Pensabene Library with views over the beautiful grounds.

Sixth Form Centre with social and study space.

The Art and Design Centre is available to all pupils and houses: • two fine art studios • two Sixth Form studios • a pottery workshop • creative computer suite • dark room • sewing room • 3D design studio The purpose built Senior Science Centre has: • three laboratories • project room • preparation room

Leweston’s excellent sports facilities are aided by the 46 acres of grounds in which the school sits. The school provides: • an all-weather hockey pitch which doubles as nine tennis courts in the summer • a sports hall which acts as both an indoor netball and hockey court, provides four badminton courts and a conditioning suite and a range of Technogym cardo-vascular equipment • six netball courts, six hard surface tennis courts • an indoor heated swimming pool • 300m grass track • synthetic long jump The Prep and Senior School share the Theatre, Dining Hall and Chapel which are all on the senior site.

LEARN ABOUT LEWESTON THE SCHOOL

OUR PUPILS

Leweston was founded in 1891, over the past 129 years it has grown and developed moving from its original site in Sherborne to the campus it inhabits today.

Pupils join Leweston throughout the Prep School and usually at age 11, 13 and 16 (Years 7, 9 and 12) in the Senior School. The school does accept students at other points if places are available. Boarding starts in Year 4.

The school has been transitioning from all-girls to co-education since 2016 and the senior school is now approximately one third boys.

The school places great emphasis on the importance of relationships: between girls and boys, between the age groups and between the school and the families it supports. It is known for its warm welcome and strong family atmosphere.

Life at Leweston is a busy one with an extensive academic, creative and sporting programme. Students are encouraged to take up all the opportunities that come to them because learning takes place as much outside the classroom as within it.

THE SCHOOL STRUCTURE Children aged 4 to 11 are educated in our Prep School which is housed in the former Coach House on a seperate area of campus. The average class size in the Prep is 16.

Leweston is not strongly selective but our pupils have an impressive range of talents, both academic and otherwise. We expect to send a number of candidates to highly selective universities every year but we are equally proud of those pupils who follow a vocational path or exceed their own ambitions.

We have a significant number of elite athletes who complete a regional, national and international level particularly in Pentathlon and associated sports.

However we encourage all pupils to have a positive attitude to their physical and mental health and take an inclusive approach to all opprtunities in the school encouraging everyone.

Music is central to life at Leweston with orchestras, bands, choirs and numerous smaller ensembles. A significant percentage of pupils study an instrument or voice. The Music Department collaborates closely with Drama with an annual school production and smaller examination and year group performances.

In Year 7 pupils move into the Senior School. Year groups are typically split into two or three classes of around 18 students. Years 12 and 13 make up the Sixth Form.

Community is central to the ethos at Leweston and our international pupils make a significant contribution to all aspects of school life.

THE SCHOOL DAY

WHAT TYPE OF PUPIL COMES TO LEWESTON?

School starts at 8.20am and runs until 4.20pm with a short morning break and longer lunch break. Tea is available at 4.20pm following which there are activities and study supervised by a member of staff in the school library.

Supper is served at 6.45pm. In the evening there are Boarding House meetings, further activities and more study time for older pupils.

Lessons are 60 minutes in length and, in the Senior School arranged in a two-week timetable cycle to provide flexible subject choice.

Leweston does not have a ‘type’, we embrace a wide diversity of personalities, interests, backgrounds and approaches to life but we will always encourage our students to get involved and try new things.

Our ‘Leweston Learner’ framework encourages and recognises pupils who are: • Determined • Inquisitive • Adventurous • Confident • Resilient • Creative

ACTIVITIES

DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD

Leweston has a comprehensive activities programme in both the Prep and Senior School. A full timetable of evening activities is published every term. Music, drama and sports practices are scheduled throughout the week. Pupils comment on the programme and suggest future ideas.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a national scheme designed to equip young people with skills for life. There are three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Each involves volunteering, physical skills and an expedition. Pupils can enrol in Bronze from Year 9 and Silver from Year 10, Gold is exclusive to Sixth Form.

The award is very popular at Leweston and a number of international pupils participate every year.

The school does not have lessons on Saturday morning but provides opportunities for private study and relaxation. The afternoons are normally taken up with sporting commitments, trips or onsite games. On Sunday afternoons pupils have a range of activities to choose from either on or offsite. In addition Houseparents organise a number of unpublished spontaneous events such a rambles and film parties.

Most activities are free and if any incur a charge parents are notified in advance. Day pupils are invited to join the weekend programme and often join their boarding friends on trips and in-school activities.

PENTATHLON Leweston has official Pentathlon Academy status awarded by Pentathlon GB, one of only nine schools in the country.

Leweston caters for athletes of all abilities and any pupil can get involved, they just need to show an interest in multi-sports events and be willing to work towards improving their performance.

Our highly experienced resident coach, Mick Flaherty, organises and delivers dedicated training and mentoring programmes tailored to individual needs.

The Academy provides weekly onsite training in swimming, fencing, shooting and running with specialist coaches many of whom are involved with the National Squad.

CHAPEL Leweston is a Catholic foundation, which welcomes pupils of all denominations, and none, traditionally a third of the pupils are Catholic.

The Chapel of St Antony plays an important part in the life of the School. The whole school gathers in Chapel weekly for school services. It also hosts our musical events. It is always open so pupils can find a quiet space when they need one.

Mass is celebrated at the weekend for the boarding community and on Wednesdays for the whole School.

Pupils of all ages participate in planning the liturgies and take an active role as servers, readers, choir and musicians. We often welcome parents, friends and neighbours. Pupils of other faiths are supported in their own worship and an Anglican liturgy is held in the school chapel once a term.

CURRICULUM Leweston Prep

Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13)

Prep pupils routinely outperform national averages in all measures. In addition to the curriculum subjects pupils participate in a range of sports and activities including swimming and weekly Forest School sessions.

Leweston offers two different Sixth Form qualifications: A Levels and BTECs. Most students take three subjects, some may take four but this is typically when combining Mathematics and Further Mathematics.

Years 7 to 9 Leweston delivers a broad and flexible curriculum that ensures balanced, appropriate and interesting learning opportunities for every pupil. There is a strong emphasis on independence and learning skills.

GCSE (Years 10 and 11) GCSE courses are normally taught over two years and examined at the end of Year 11. Pupils study 10 subjects. Six are compulsory: English Literature and Language, one Modern Foreign Language or English as an Additional Language, Mathematics, Religious Studies and either Combined Science (2 GCSEs) or three separate single sciences. In addition, pupils choose up to three individual options from the remaining subjects.

Subject choice is extremely important, and we understand that some pupils may experience difficulty narrowing their choice. The Head of Sixth Form and the heads of academic departments are available to discuss choices and university ambitions thoroughly.

Sixth Form students will typically have 10 hours of teaching per subject per fortnight and teaching groups are usually 8-10 students in size although popular subjects can be more. All Sixth Formers have the option to study for an Extended Project Qualification.

At both GCSE and Sixth Form the timetable is built to accommodate as many choices as possible. Students are not expected to select from prescribed blocks however a subject may not run due to insufficient interest. Applications made after the timetable is agreed in March may be subject to limited choices.

Prep School

Years 7 to 9

GCSE Year 10 and 11

Sixth Form Year 12 and 13

Art and Design

Art

Art

Fine Art

Drama

Biology

Biology

Biology

English

Chemistry

Computer Science

Chemistry

French

Cookery

Chemistry

Computer Science

Geography

Design

Design

Design

History

Drama

Drama

Drama and Theatre Studies

ICT

English

English

English Literature

Latin

French

French

French

Mathematics

Geography

Geography

Geography

Music

History

History

History

Physical Education

ICT

Home Economics

Health and Social Care (BTEC)

Religious Studies

Latin

Latin/Classical Civilisation Latin

Science

Mathematics

Maths and Further Maths

Maths and Further Maths

Spanish

Music

Music

Further Mathematics

Physical Education

Physical Education

Music

Physics

Physics

Physical Education (BTEC)

Religious Studies

Religious Studies

Physics

Spanish

Spanish

Religious Studies Spanish

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Leweston has a reputation as one of the best performing schools in the region with virtually all pupils going on to Higher Education or specialist colleges. Pupils receive offers for the UK’s top universities to study a wide range of subjects.

A Level, BTEC and Pre-U Equivalent Results • • •

29% A* 55% A* and A 78% A* to B

GCSE Results • • • •

45% A* (8-9) 66% A*-A (7-9) 82% A*-B (6-9) 100% A*-C (4-9)

Destinations 2020 University of Birmingham Psychology University of Exeter

Drama, International Relations, Biological Sciences

University of Cardiff Medicine Imperial College, London Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics with Applied Mathematics and Physics King’s College London

Computer Science with Intelligent Systems

University of Liverpool Psychology University of Manchester Music University of Nottingham Medicine University College, London

Arts and Sciences, Biomedical Engineering

Bath Spa University

Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors

Bournemouth University

Make Up for Media and Performance

Bristol University of West of England

Integrated Wildlife Conservation

University of Essex Psychology Kingston University

Cyber Security and Computer Forensics

Oxford Brookes University

History of Art

University of Plymouth

Medicine, Psychology

Royal Central School of Speech and Drama

Design for Performance

Royal Holloway

Ancient History, Psychology, Zoology

Royal Agricultural University

Real Estate Management, Rural Land Management

INTERNATIONAL PUPILS The international students leaving in 2020 secured places at Imperial College, University College and King’s College, London, Royal Holloway, the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and the University of Essex. They achieved an impressive 16 A*s and 10 A grades between them and 84% of grades were A* to B.

UNIVERSITY ENRANCE Most students go on to Higher Education to study a wide range of courses at university and specialist colleges. In the last five years Leweston has sent pupils to 51 different university destinations, 54% of them Russell Group with 32% being STEM, Medicine or Veterinary courses.

Popular Destinations 2016-2020 Oxbridge University of Birmingham University of Bristol Cardiff University University of Exeter Imperial College, London King's College London University of Leeds University of Liverpool University of Manchester Newcastle University University of Nottingham University College, London University of Warwick University of the West of England Royal Holloway Royal Agricultural University Oxford Brookes University Plymouth University University of the Arts 0

2

4

6

8

10

Popular Subject Choices 2016 -2020 Art/Design/Architecture Computer Science Business/Finance/Management Education/Early Years Engineering English/Creative Writing History/Ancient History/Classics Law/Criminology Medicine/Nursing Modern Foreign Languages Music/Dramatic Arts/Film Philosophy/Theology Science/Maths/Economics Social Sciences Veterinary Science 0

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10

15

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25

LEARN IN ENGLISH Leweston has over 50 years’ experience teaching English as an Additional Language (EAL) from beginner to advanced levels.

Pupils benefit from EAL lessons in many ways. They assist progress in their main subjects or support internationally recognised examinations such as Cambridge Preliminary or First Certificate or the British Council’s IELTS. All are available as one-year courses.

PREP, YEARS 7, 8 AND 9 Pupils are assessed on arrival and a decision is made about the best pathway. Some will use EAL for support with lessons whilst others will study for Cambridge Preliminary or First Certificate examinations.

YEAR 10 Pupils in Year 10 can select EAL as their foreign language option and study for an EAL qualification in one year. This also builds academic language skills for other subjects.

YEAR 11 Students in Year 11 receive tailored support for the GCSE English Language examination. This is compulsory for all pupils studying in the UK and must be passed at Grade 5 or above.

YEAR 12 Students in Year 12 prepare for the IELTS examination required by all English medium universities. Depending on a student’s level they may take this course in six months, one year or 18 months.

YEAR 13 Students may be finishing their IELTS course or choose to use EAL to support their other subjects. In addition, support is given with writing university applications.

Our Head of EAL is available one night a week in boarding to assist with academic or pastoral concerns. In addition to this EAL support is available at lunchtimes and after school.

EXTRA ACTIVITIES Twice a term events are held with international students from other schools where pupils can collaborate and compete to use their English skills.

These events include public speaking competitions, debate evenings and quiz nights.

FIRST LANGUAGE It is important that students feel valued for their ability to use more than one language. Whilst we expect pupils to communicate in English at all times around the school we do respect their own languages.

Students are encouraged to teach their language and culture to others. In addition, they can take GCSEs and A Levels in their first language if this is appropriate.

APPLYING TO LEWESTON FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT IS YOUR ADMISSIONS PROCESS?

HOW QUICKLY CAN APPLICATIONS BE PROCESSED?

All enquiries are taken by our Admissions team who will request the pupil’s name, age and date of birth along with copies of latest school reports and the pupil’s passport. If relevant it is helpful to know the pupils’ A Level or GCSE choices.

The admissions process can be completed in as little as two weeks if relevant information is shared and the pupil can make themselves available for interview.

All entrants must complete English and Maths tests provided by the School to be sat under exam conditions either at the pupil’s School or Agency.

Alternatively a UKISET report can be submitted if the pupil has one. Tests should be returned to Admissions for review by the Deputy Head and Head of International Pupils.

After tests have been marked the pupil will be invited to an interview with a senior member of staff, typically the Head of Head of International Pupils. This can take place either in person as part of a visit or via Skype, arrangements should be made with Admissions. Face to face interviews may be possible when the Head is travelling.

Offers will be made after interview and testing and may be conditional where certain documents are yet to be disclosed. Offers are typically held open for one month but this may be shorter if there are limited places available.

HOW DO YOU SECURE A PLACE? Places are secured with payment of the deposit fee and signature of the Terms and Conditions. Deposits are refunded on the pupil’s final bill, they will not be returned if the pupil decides at a later stage that they do not require the place.

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION? There is no formal deadline and we continue to accept applications until our places are full, after that we operate a waiting list. Candidates are advised to apply as early as they can, especially at GCSE and Sixth Form to ensure maximum option choice.

HOW MANY PLACES DO YOU HAVE FOR INTERNATIONAL PUPILS? On average 30 international pupils join Leweston every year representing a wide range of different nationalities.

For the benefit of all students, we maintain a good balance of British and international pupils in classes and boarding houses so availability changes throughout the year. It is advisable to apply early in the year preceding the point of entry, especially for Spanish speakers. There is typically the highest demand for spaces in Years 9, 10 and 12.

WHAT ARE YOUR ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? In Sixth Form international applicants are normally expected to offer GCSE English, IGCSE English as a Second Language or IELTS Band 5.5 or any equivalent EAL qualification as pass level or above. All Sixth Form entrants should have 6 GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade 5 or above with Grade 7 in the subjects they wish to study.

In the lower school pupils are expected to evidence that they have the potential to achieve Grade 5 or above at English GCSE (or equivalent).

DO YOU ACCEPT PUPILS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR? Pupils typically arrive in September at the start of the school year but it is sometimes possible to join after this point. Each application is looked at individually as there will be a requirement to catch up on work missed.

This is not recommended in Years 10 and 12 due to examination courses.

AT WHAT AGE DO YOU ACCEPT INTERNATIONAL PUPILS? Boarding at Leweston starts in Year 5 (age 9) and international boarders are welcome from this point. The school has international day pupils, whose families are living in the UK from Nursery upwards.

If a pupil wants to study at Leweston with the aim of staying in the British higher education system we would recommend them joining the School as early as possible.

CAN FAMILIES VISIT THE SCHOOL? Prospective pupils and their parents are welcome to any time but we recognise this can be difficult for overseas families. Agents are welcome to visit in their place. Please contact the Admissions team on +44 1963 211015 or admissions@leweston.dorset.sch. uk

HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD BE ALLOWED FOR A VISIT? It is important that prospective families see the school properly and meet relevant members of staff whilst they are with us. We would allow two hours for a visit.

DO YOU ACCEPT STUDENTS FOR SHORT PERIODS OF STUDY? Subject to availability students are accepted for short stay visits ranging from a half term to one year in length. The admissions process will be adapted for short stay pupils according to the requirements of the year group and the length of stay.

One term or less Short stays are available from Year 5 (age 9) to Year 12 (age 17). Pupils can join throughout the year but Autumn and Summer terms are most popular. As Year 11 is a public examination year short stays are not recommended.

Short stays are popular with families whose domestic education system prevents them making a longer term commitment. Many short stay pupils return for the same period every year and we look forward to seeing

them on an annual basis.

It is sometimes possible for the school to accept small groups for one or two week periods during the year, again subject to availability.

One Year Some pupils attend Leweston for a one-year period to access a full year’s teaching and complete an EAL examination. It is an ideal way for pupils to improve their English and learn about British culture. One-year courses are most common in Years 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12.

The academic year starts in September and runs until early July.

DO YOU CHARGE FOR ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL)?

Free EAL is offered as part of the curriculum where it takes the place of one other subject, this is typically French or Spanish. Private individual or group lessons are charged as an extra for those who need further support or want to accelerate their learning, particularly A Level students preparing for IELTs examinations.

CAN YOU HELP WITH A VISA APPLICATION? Leweston is registered with the UK Home Office as a sponsor for Child Student Visas. Once an offer is accepted by a prospective student we will apply for a reference number called a confirmation of acceptance for studies or CAS. The CAS number will be required for the pupil’s visa application. Once received the CAS is shared with the families’ agent.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE FEES? Tuition, most textbooks, accommodation, meals, laundry, most school activities, games and societies along with some EAL lessons.

WHAT MIGHT BE CHARGED AS EXTRA?

DO INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS NEED A GUARDIAN IN THE UK?

School uniform is approximately £330 in the Prep and £510 in the Senior School. No uniform is required in Sixth Form but pupils are expected to purchase Sixth Form sports kit which is approximately £50.

We require all students based overseas to have an adult guardian who is resident in the UK or be enrolled with a guardianship agency.

Examination entry fees, individual music and drama, school trips costs vary but are usually between £250 and £500, parents are notified in advance. Travel to and from school, stationery and personal expenses.

Pupils need to be able to stay with their guardian during half term breaks (if not returning home) and, if necessary, the school holidays. The guardian must also be able to take responsibility for the pupil if they need to come out of school at any other time.

DO YOU HAVE EXEAT WEEKENDS?

Guardians must be over 25 and live within 2 and half hours of the school.

Leweston has five exeat weekends spread across the year. Students are encouraged to take a break from school but boarders can opt to stay at school and take part in a more relaxed programme. There is a small charge and early booking is essential. Alternatively, international pupils may stay with their guardians.

WHAT MEDICAL CARE IS AVAILABLE? Pupils are registered with the British National Health Service (NHS) which provides free care (except for some small charges). The school has its own Health Centre staffed by two registered nurses and a school doctor who visits weekly. The Health Centre is open Monday to Friday with qualified staff on call in boarding overnight and at weekends. There are two hospitals in easy reach of the school and treatment can be arranged through the school doctor as necessary.

DO YOU TRAVEL TO ATTEND EDUCATION FAIRS? Every year the Headmaster makes a number of trips abroad to meet agents and pupils. We are very keen to expand the range of nationalities within our community and will consider all opportunities shared with us but our experience tells us that visiting agents individually and building strong personal relationships is the most effective way of understanding our prospective pupils.

Guardians are encouraged to become involved in the life of the School and are welcome at parents’ evenings, productions and concerts.

BOARDING AT LEWESTON Leweston has four boarding Houses all of which are located within the main school building which ensures full integration between day and boarding pupils. Day pupils are encouraged to participate in the weekend activity programme and have the option to flexi-board throughout the week and weekends.

MARTHA HOUSE (GIRLS YEARS 3 TO 8) Martha is a welcoming and safe place for girls from age 7 to 13. Newly renovated, it is divided into traditional dormitories with 6-8 boarders in each room. It is close to the Head of Boarding’s accommodation and has a strong ‘family’ feel.

CECILIA HOUSE (GIRLS YEARS 9 TO 10) Boarders in Years 9 and 10 live in spacious dormitories of between 4 and 5. Each boarder has their own bed and space to decorate with pictures from home as well as a well-equipped common room for relaxation.

ELEANOR HOUSE (GIRLS YEARS 11 & 13) Year 11 and Sixth Form boarders move into a separate wing to recognise their changing needs. Year 11 may share a double room but all Sixth Form boarders have a single. Independence is encouraged and the Sixth Form have their own Sixth Form Centre which provides indoor and outdoor social space as well as the facilities to cook for themselves and entertain. They also have facilities to do their own laundry and are encouraged to develop their own independent living skills.

ANTONY HOUSE (BOYS YEARS 7 TO 13) The boys’ boarding house provides pupils from Years 5 to 13 with individual, double or small group rooms as well as a common room for social space. There are plans to expand facilities as numbers grow.

INDUCTION We aim to make all our pupils welcome from day one.

Every September on the first day of term we hold team building and other orientation activities which are carefully planned to ensure all new pupils find their way around and get to know each other.

Each new pupil has a ‘guardian’ on arrival to provide particular support as they settle in. This is often an important factor in forging new friendships.

SCHOOL HOUSES The House system at Leweston encourages a sense of belonging and gives pupils the opportunity to work with other year groups. Every pupil belongs to one of four Houses (different to the boarding houses). Each is led by a Sixth Form House Captain who co-ordinates events and leads House activities.

PREFECTS The Boarding Prefect leads a team of senior boarders who act as role models and are the boarders’ representatives. They chair termly boarding council meetings. international pupils also have the International Boarding Committee which acts as a forum for overseas students and organises and promotes world events and festivals. This is led by the International Boarding Prefect.

BOARDING FAQS ARE YOUR BOARDING HOUSES OPEN DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS? No - pupils are expected to arrive the day before lessons begin and leave the day after lessons finish each term.

WILL INTERNATIONAL PUPILS HAVE TO SPEAK ENGLISH? All pupils are required to speak English in the boarding houses and our international pupils quickly find themselves speaking English all the time. However, we know that on occasions pupils feel more comfortable communicating in their mother tongue and will support this when required.

DO BOARDERS HAVE TO LEAVE THE HOUSES FOR EXEAT WEEKENDS? Boarders can opt to stay at school during exeats and take part in a more relaxed programme. There is a small charge and early booking is essential. Alternatively, international pupils may stay with their guardians.

WHAT ABOUT HALF TERMS? The school closes during half term. Pupils should arrange to visit their families or stay with a guardian.

DO BOARDERS HAVE TO SHARE A ROOM? Younger boarders share rooms, we believe this is a good thing as it helps new pupils make friends more quickly. Year 11 and Sixth Form pupils usually have their own study bedroom.

IS THERE INTERNET ACCESS IN THE BOARDING HOUSES? All boarders have access to the internet with Wi-Fi in the boarding houses, study areas and IT suites around the school. There are also private Skype rooms for those without individual rooms. Each boarding house has its own landline and pupils can use their own mobiles in the evenings.

ARE MOBILE PHONES ALLOWED? Yes although Years 7 to 11 are not permitted to use them during the school day to ensure pupils are fully involved in the life of the school. Please remember that although we understand families want to keep in contact, we do find that speaking on the phone last thing at night can make new pupils a little homesick.

Houseparents will be in touch if they feel a pupil is not settling in.

ARE PUPILS ALLOWED LAPTOPS? Pupils can bring laptops but please be aware these are expensive items and can easily be damaged – even in transit at airports etc. Please make sure these items are insured. Every pupil has a school email address and this is a very effective way to communicate between staff and pupils.

DOES THE SCHOOL PROVIDE TRANSPORT TO AND FROM AIRPORTS? The school works closely with long-term travel partners Hounslows who provide an escorted airport collection service. Further details are available from Admissions.

HOW ARE INTERNATIONAL PUPILS SUPPORTED ACADEMICALLY? The core purpose of the school is ensuring that pupils reach their academic potential. The teachers are very helpful and approachable. Every pupil is assigned a tutor is to support their academic development. Tutor meetings happen three times a week and cover a range of topics. All tutors work with the Head of Year, Deputy Head and Houseparent.

The Director of International Students offers additional support and will have regular check-ins with overseas students.

Every pupil will receive an annual written report and there is a parent consultation evening for each year group. Guardians or family members based in the UK are encouraged to attend. In addition pupils receive half termly grades which will be shared with the families’ agent.

WHO LOOKS AFTER PUPILS WHEN THEY FIRST ARRIVE? The Head of Year, Tutor and House Parent are all on hand to care for new arrivals. Every pupil will be assigned a ‘guardian’ (another pupil to looked after them) and matched with a peer mentor, a current Sixth Former who has been trained to act as a mentor to a younger student. This relationship will continue throughout the first term and often beyond.

CAN PUPILS BRING THEIR OWN PICTURES/POSTERS FROM HOME? Yes they can each room has a large pin board for photos and pictures etc. Some pupils bring bunting and battery operated lights to make it more homely – often using the cupboards or shelving as a way to hang things.

Pupils can make their rooms really pretty but they are to avoid marking the painted wall surfaces.

CAN I TAKE MY CHILD OUT FOR A WEEKEND IF I AM VISITING? Yes but please ensure that the houseparent has been informed. There are many good hotels and Bed and Breakfasts in the surrounding areas and the school would be happy to help with recommendations.

WHAT ARE THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR LAUNDRY? Laundry takes place twice a week – once for a pupil’s home clothes and bedding and once for uniform. All items brought into school must be named.

DO BEDROOMS HAVE THEIR OWN BATHROOMS? Leweston currently has no en-suite bathrooms but boarders have good washroom facilities.

BRINGING MONEY Boarders are able to open UK bank accounts and we will help you do this at the local bank in Sherborne.

However, most cash machines in the UK accept foreign cards. We ask that any money brought to school is given to the houseparent for safekeeping. Valuable should not be kept in students’ rooms.

WHERE CAN I BUY THE SCHOOL UNIFORM? The school uniform can be bought online or from the school shop by appointment. Appointments can be made with Mrs Julia Clifford, School Shop Manager at schoolshop@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

CAN PUPILS WEAR THEIR OWN CLOTHES AT SCHOOL? In the evening and weekends, and at certain other times, pupils are allowed to wear their own clothes.

There is no uniform for Sixth Form but all students require a dark suit for formal occasions and clothing choices must comply with the official dress code.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN DORSET? The South West in the UK has quite a mild climate and there is not a great variation between the seasons of the year. The summers are usually fine.

COMMUNICATION SUPPORT TO PARENTS

EDUCATIONAL AGENTS

At Leweston we understand that sending children to study abroad is a significant undertaking. We therefore recognise the importance of good communication between home and school, and take care to be responsive to parents.

International agents provide invaluable help to parents, especially those parents who do not know the UK education system and who do not speak English.

The parents’ main point of contact will be the house parent and tutor. All staff can be contacted directly by email or telephone; and staff contacts are listed on the school website Parents visiting the UK are always welcome to visit the school, and we can arrange meetings with teachers and other staff if required. Visiting parents are always invited to any school events we are holding at the time.

As parents are sometimes unfamiliar with the UK, and might not speak English, they may need to use educational agents and guardians to help them. The school works very happily with agents and guardians.

It is particularly important that parents who are not able to communicate easily with the school appoint an agent and guardian. All of the school’s communication is in English, and parents need to make sure they understand our terms and conditions and other documentation.

EDUCATIONAL GUARDIANS It is a requirement for all pupils living abroad, including UK nationals, to have a guardian resident in the UK. This is the case even for older pupils as it is no easy matter to move to a foreign country to study.

The educational guardian is there to provide support for both the pupil and their parents. Parents are reassured to know that they have a some at hand to visit their child at school, monitor their wellbeing, and help with communication between school and home.

Pupils are reassured to know that they have someone outside the school whom they can call on for help if they need it.

The UK guardian can also provide somewhere to stay for any occasions when the pupil needs to be away from school but remain in the UK. For example, there may be difficulty getting a flight on the right day, or the pupil may need to stay in the UK after term ends in order to attend university interviews.

Leweston looks to collaborate closely with our international agent partners, to ensure that pupils choosing us are making the right decision. Agents are welcome to visit whenever they are in the country.

HELP FOR PUPILS Leweston has a dedicated Admissions Department, who keep in touch with each family throughout the time between their admission and their actual arrival, sending information, answering questions, helping with practical matters like visas, and putting pupils in touch with teachers.

FEES 2020-21 REGISTRATION FEES

A term’s notice (given before the final day of the preceding term) must be given in writing to the Head if: a pupil is being removed from the School or there is any change to optional extras.

Failure to give notice will result in a term’s fees in lieu being charged.

Prep School £75 Senior School £100

DEPOSIT £3,500 A pupil cannot be accepted into the School until the deposit has been paid with the deposit forfeited if the place is not taken. The deposit is refunded on the final account.

TERMLY FEES Years 4 - 6

£7,854

Years 7 and 8

£9,505

Years 9 – 13

£10,540

Half Term Short Stay Fees Years 5 and 6

£3,927

Years 7 and 8

£4,753

Years 9 – 13

£5,270

OPTIONAL EXTRAS Optional Extras Drama Solo Years 2 to 6 Drama Solo Years 7 to 13 Drama Shared Years 2 to 6 Drama Shared Years 7 to 13

£173 £223 £154 £169

Individual Music Years 2 to 6 £238 Individual Music Years 7 to 13 £313 Theory of Music/Aural Classes £73 Shared/Group Recorder lessons (Prep only) £119 Piano Hire £46 All other instruments £49 Individual Needs (Literacy and Numeracy) £50 hour £29 half hour English as an Additional Language One to one tuition £48 2 pupils £28 3 pupils £23 The number of options lessons per term may vary dependning on the length of the term. Cost of School trips will be advised in advance.

PAYMENT OPTIONS Most overseas parents find it easiest to pay by electronic bank transfer directly into the School’s account. Fees are payable termly, by the first day of each term. Lump sum payments are accepted and a monthly direct debit scheme is available, details are available from the Bursary.

USEFUL CONTACTS Mrs Simkins-Smith Director of Boarding and Housemistress of Eleanor and Cecilia Houses Office: 01963 211066 Mobile: 07964 539463 simkinsb@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

Mr Cannon Housemaster of Antony House Office: 01963 211018 Mobile: 07772 318643 cannonl@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

Miss Charlotte Ogle Housemistress of Martha House Office: 01963 211018 Mobile: 07377401626 oglec@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

Miss Claire Worsley Director of Marketing and Admissions Tel: +44 1963 211015 admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

For more information call us on: 01963 211015 or email: admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk Leweston School, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 6EN

www.leweston.co.uk