WELCOME TO BOARDING
Welcome to Boarding at Marymount International School London Welcome from the Boarding Team At Marymount International School London, we are delighted to welcome students from around the world to join our Boarding family, an experience designed to broaden horizons, strengthen academic skills, and offer a taste of life at a truly international school.
Paula Horton Head of Boarding
Rooted in a proud tradition of educational excellence, Marymount blends a global outlook with the warmth and character of British school life. Our vibrant community reflects a rich diversity of cultures, languages, and perspectives, and our distinguished International Baccalaureate curriculum is delivered by skilled, dedicated teachers who are passionate about nurturing curiosity, confidence, and a genuine love of learning. During their time with us, students enjoy far more than a study experience - they build meaningful friendships, develop independence, and discover new interests and passions. Whether through academic study, our rich co‑curricular programme, or the rhythms of daily school life, every student leaves with experiences, memories and a sense of self that will stay with them long after they return home.
Annie Plumridge Deputy Head of Boarding
We very much look forward to welcoming you into our community.
Principles and Aims Marymount Boarding Principles are based upon mutual respect and equal opportunity for all; we are focused on fostering a sense of community, social awareness and the importance of personal and spiritual growth, in an atmosphere of trust. Each Boarding community member, whether staff or student, aspires to safeguard and promote the welfare of all, ensuring protection against harm or neglect. Each member deserves to be treated with courtesy and respect, with a right to appropriate privacy. Every person has a voice and a right to be heard and is encouraged to listen to the voice of others, regardless of race, culture and belief. Boarding provides a living situation where 'Unity through diversity' flourishes; here we recognise and respect all cultures and celebrate our progress in becoming independent and confident members of the global community.
Statement of Aims To provide an atmosphere of trust between all persons within the boarding environment; To promote openness and tolerance so that every individual finds confidence to discover themselves and their dreams; To promote kindness in all, to ensure bullying of any kind cannot take hold; To provide an environment that is safe, relaxing and comfortable, suited to the needs of boarders appropriately; To promote a spirit of teamwork and communal responsibility within the Boarding community; To encourage and promote the positive development of every student; Boarding staff have the primary responsibility of the holistic care of the boarding students. They aim to provide a safe and secure environment where students can grow to their full potential, and to create an atmosphere of love and support; Listening to their needs Affirming them in their efforts Challenging them to reach beyond barriers of self-doubt and anxiety to be the agent of their own growth and development
Boarding Hall Details There are three Boarding Halls Butler Gailhac St Joseph’s You’ll have a room in one of our boarding halls, usually sharing with one or two other girls - perfect for making friends straight away! Every boarder is part of a boarding family and paired with a Big Sister. She’ll be there to help you settle in, answer questions, and make you feel at home in your new ‘home away from home’. Your room comes with a bed, a wardrobe, a desk, shelves, and a noticeboard so you can decorate it with photos, drawings, or anything that reminds you of home. Bathrooms and showers are shared and just a few steps away.
How to be a good roommate Boarding at Marymount might be the first time you share a room and that is okay! We are here to make this adjustment smooth. Here are some top tips for being a good roommate: Use headphones for music, videos, or games so you don’t disturb your roommate. Keep your space tidy - it makes the room nicer for both of you. Respect privacy and each other’s belongings. Ask before decorating or putting anything on the walls. Be mindful of noise - especially when your roommate is sleeping or studying. Help out with chores if needed, like tidying shared areas. Talk openly and kindly if there’s a problem - don’t let it build up. Support each other if you’re feeling homesick, but give space when needed. Avoid hot or strong-smelling food in the room. Agree on a roommate contract with your Houseparents to set expectations together. Check in regularly with each other about how things are going. Celebrate little wins - whether it’s decorating your space or finishing a project together.
Marymount is an international school with students from all over the world. When you’re at school, especially in areas with a mix of nationalities, we ask that you speak English. It might feel tricky at first, but practising will improve your language skills and help everyone feel included. Always be polite and friendly to your roommates, other students in your hall, and members of staff.
Laundry and Linen Marymount may provide you with and launder the following items (please talk to the Houseparents if you need this service): Sheets and pillowcases Towels The school will also wash and iron your school shirts. The Head Housekeeper can arrange to have your blazer dry-cleaned at a small cost. Dirty linen should be placed in laundry baskets in the Halls. School shirts must be labelled with your name. You may choose to make your room feel more like home by bringing your own duvet/comforter, pillows, bed linen, and towels. You are required to wash your linens and towels at least once a week. Each Hall has designated laundry days and times. Make sure you remove every item from the machines and wait your turn when they are in use. Please note: The Laundry Room opens at 7.00am and closes at 10.00pm each day. Top tips: Put your name on all your belongings. We recommend that you purchase a laundry bag. Boarding provides detergent but not fabric softener. The School prefers eco-friendly products if you would like to purchase your own. We highly recommend you bring a couple of zip-up mesh laundry bags to prevent loss of small items. Please respect others by not removing anyone else's laundry from the machines.
Electrical Appliances Information What to Bring: Approved charging cables (most generic chargers do not pass PAT tests) Hairdryers Straighteners or curlers Your own adapter plugs if your devices use a different plug from the UK three-pronged 220– 240V standard Please Leave at Home: Weighing scales Kitchen appliances (kettles, mini-fridges, etc.) Electric fans or heaters Electric blankets Safety & Usage: Always unplug appliances after use and store them safely—not on your bed or the floor—to reduce fire risk. Communal areas in the Boarding Halls provide some appliances, and lounges have TVs for everyone to enjoy. The Maintenance team checks appliances already in your room and arranges Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for electrical items. If you buy a new appliance during term time, please tell us so we can arrange PAT testing before you use it. Available Lounges & Appliances: Gailhac Lounge: fridge, freezer, kettle, microwave, hob, oven Butler Lounge: fridge, kettle, microwave, two hobs, two ovens, freezer St Joseph’s Kitchen (Grade 12s): fridge, kettle, microwave, hob Room 20: open evenings and weekends for all students to relax and socialise The kitchens are fully stocked with free access for cooking and baking
Arrival and Introduction When you arrive at Marymount, you will meet your Houseparents, who live in the Halls and are there for help, advice, or just a chat—day or night. Houseparents, along with members of the Student Boarding Council, will welcome you to campus, show you to your room, and give you a tour of the Boarding Hall. You’ll then have time to unpack and meet your fellow students. Once unpacked, please take your suitcase to the Trunk Room on the lower floor next to the Dining Hall. Suitcases stay here and are collected when needed. Make sure each item is clearly labelled with your name. Please note: you may need to pack your belongings before each school holiday. Some items must be handed in for safekeeping: Any cash over £50 Your passport/ID cards/Important travel documents All medication All documents are stored safely in the Boarding Office and signed out when required (for holidays, trips, etc.). Medication is not allowed in rooms, so please discuss this with your parents before you arrive. Student Oyster cards can be ordered for you and the charge will be added to your school account; a photograph will be required for this. Finally, a special Induction Programme is prepared to help you settle in. The schedule will be shared with you on arrival.
Security at Marymount Wristbands & Security Marymount is a safe and secure campus, with CCTV, coded gates, and security personnel. On arrival, you will receive: A wristband that gives you access to your Hall and your room A padlock for the lockable drawers in your room If your wristband stops working, you can exchange it for a new one at the Boarding Office. If it’s lost, you will need to buy a replacement (£5 charged to your School account). Both items must be returned at the end of the school year. You are responsible for your personal belongings. Always store them securely when leaving your room and clearly label all items. If something goes missing, report it to your Houseparent immediately. Parcels can be delivered to the school. These will be received at the Boarding office; collection is available after school hours only. School Bank The School Bank is located in the Business Office (Main House). For security, you should not keep more than £50 on your person or in your room. If you need more, your parents must email accounts@marymountlondon.com and copy the Boarding Administrator (moderator@marymountlondon.com). The team will guide you on how to collect your money safely. Uber and other ride shares are authorised only for girls aged 16+ and only on receipt of signed parental permission forms.
Food and Dining Our catering team works hard to provide a variety of healthy meals every day and regularly meets with the Boarding Council Food Committee to gather feedback. If you have any food allergies or dietary requirements, these must be declared by your parents during the Admissions process. All students on campus during mealtimes must go to the Dining Hall and register with the duty Houseparent. If you prepare your own food or order take-out (weekends only), you still need to register so we can make sure you are looked after. If you are unwell, let the duty Houseparent know—either by telling your roommate or via the Boarding Teams page. Important: Only fruit may be taken out of the Dining Hall. Take-out, or food you prepare may be eaten in the Lounges or the Dining Hall.
Meal Times Meal
Day
Time
Breakfast
Weekdays (Mon–Fri)
Begins at 7:30am Grades 6–11: arrive by 7:45am Grade 12: arrive by 8:00am
Lunch
Weekdays (Mon–Fri)
As per your Grade’s allocated timing
Breakfast
Saturday & Sunday
9:00am – 10:00am
Brunch
Saturday & Sunday
11:30am – 12:30pm
Dinner
Every evening
5:45pm – 6:30pm (arrive by 6:15pm)
Weekends: Breakfast is optional on Saturday and Sunday, so you can sleep in. Brunch/Lunch: Attendance is required. Weekend Breakfast: You may attend in pyjamas, but ensure you are modestly covered and wearing footwear. Dinner: Registration is compulsory if you are on campus. Sundays dinner is hosted family style.
Snacks are provided 4pm and 8pm daily. Filtered water and fruit is available daily.
Study Sessions Study time is for completing homework, working on projects, or revising. Houseparents supervise study in the Gailhac classrooms downstairs. Please keep noise to a minimum to help everyone focus. Phones must be handed in during study to ensure full engagement. Snacks are not encouraged during study. Always inform Houseparents where on campus you are studying. Grades 6–10: One supervised study session is held every weekday in the Gailhac classrooms. Attendance is required. Let the Houseparent on duty know where you are and your chosen activity. Study Session: 7:00pm – 8:15pm. You may choose to attend the after-school study session at 4:05pm instead. Grades 11–12: Supervised study takes place from 7:00pm – 9:00pm. You may study in your own room, but your door must remain open and you should work at your desk. Grade 11s may study in the Library; Grade 12s in the DP Lounge. Return to your Hall by 9:00pm.
Night-time in Boarding Please return to your Hall by 9.00pm. Be out of the bathrooms and in your own room 15 minutes before lights out, giving yourself time to get ready for the next day and prepare for bed. At bedtime, the Houseparent will knock on your door, check that you are feeling well, say goodnight, and turn out the lights.
Grade
Weekday Lights Out
Weekend Lights Out
Grades 6–8
9:30pm
10:30pm
Grade 9
9:45pm
10:30pm
Grade 10
10:00pm
11:00pm
Grade 11
11:00pm
11:30pm
Grade 12
11:00pm
11:30pm (last check)
Phone Policy Device Collection (Grades 6–9) Sunday–Thursday, all devices must be handed in to Houseparents 30 minutes before lights out. Devices are kept in safe storage and returned from 7:00am. Grades 10–12 Be respectful of your roommates and avoid using devices after lights out. Getting enough sleep is important, and we encourage healthy routines. Tech-Free Table Talk All tech (phones, tablets, laptops, headphones) is discouraged during mealtimes. Tech privileges increase in higher grades. This policy helps encourage face-to-face conversations, friendships, and social interaction. Notes on Technology School Wi-Fi is available; a password will be provided. Wi-Fi is turned off at night. Boarding should have your correct phone number (UK number preferred). If your phone isn’t working, you can use the phone at Boarding Reception. Worry-Free Wake-Ups Bring an alarm clock to help you wake for breakfast or ask the duty Houseparent for help the night before. Keep an eye out for your roomates in the mornings. Houseparents will wake Grades 6–9 at 7:00am. We’re here to help you develop routines that work for you and the Boarding community.
Rewards & Sanctions Rewards You are able to earn boaring merits, which are added to your House totals. These can be for helpful behaviour, participation, acts of kindness and more. There is also a rewards system where you can collect merits and trade them in. A star chart in the student’s room tracks your progress. When 10 merits are reached, students can order take-out on a weekday and at 20 points, Boarding will pay for your take-out treat. You can accumulate merits with friends for a take-out party! Sanctions You may be given sanctions for repeatedly making poor choices or failing to follow regulations. After three of these, further consequences will be put in place such as a school detention, depending on the nature of the misdemeanour. Standards of conduct and more information on this can be found in the Behaviour, Rewards and Sanctions Policy.
Boarding Activities & Trips Marymount offers a wide range of on- and off-campus activities throughout the year, including: Theme parks West End theatre shows Museums & cultural institutions Indoor climbing Ice-skating Walks in local parks Baking, art, and knitting Murder mystery evenings Trips & Sign-Ups All trips, including costs and spaces available, will be advertised—sign up quickly to secure your spot. Costs for trips will be charged to your School Account. Mandatory trips: Students in Grades 6–9 are required to attend one trip per term (other grades are welcome). On-campus activities may also be mandatory for Grades 6–9; Houseparents will inform you in advance. Commitment Once you’ve signed up and purchased a ticket, please honour your commitment. If you can no longer attend, inform a member of the Boarding staff and try to arrange a replacement. We encourage everyone to participate in a healthy, balanced lifestyle through a mix of fun, culture, and physical activity.
Other Facilities There are plenty of spaces on campus where you can relax, be creative, stay active, and spend time with friends. Chapel & Multi-Faith Space Open daily for reflection and prayer. Art Room & Library Open until 9:00pm on weekdays Open 10:00am–9:00pm on weekends Music Room Available for practice and instrument storage. Dance Studio Open for practice in the evenings and on weekends. Sports Hall & Fitness Centre The Fitness Centre is available to Grade 9 and above only (school regulation). You must attend with a partner for safety. If needed, the Boarding Council can help you find a Gym Buddy. An induction with Sports staff is required before using the equipment. Outdoor Spaces Large grass areas for exercise, relaxation, or games. Tennis courts and all-weather courts available during recreation time. There’s always something to do—whether you want to stay active, be creative, or simply unwind.
Weekend Life Mass and Chapel services: A 5:00pm Sunday service is a mandatory part of Boarding life for all Boarders who are on campus. Students who go out during the day will therefore be expected to return in time to attend the service. Services will alternate between: A Catholic Mass, celebrated on campus; and A student-led chapel service, providing an opportunity for prayer, reflection, music, readings, and contemplation. These services will be shaped by the liturgical season, school themes, and issues relevant to the lives of our students. On those weekends when a Catholic Mass is not celebrated on campus, students will be invited to attend the local parish for an optional Mass at 10:30am. Boarders who are returning from spending the weekend with family are invited to join in these services but otherwise, all are still expected to return to Boarding by 8pm on Sunday. Leisure Wear On weekends and in study halls, you are welcome to relax in casual clothing. Pyjamas are not allowed around campus, but comfortable clothing is encouraged for leisure. End of the Weekend On Sunday evening, all boarding students should return by 8:00pm, after which the Boarding Reception will be closed. If you have been out of the country, return no later than 9:00pm. If this isn’t possible, stay with your Educational Guardian and return by 8:15am Monday. Contact the Head of Boarding if needed. Weekly Boarding Students Sign out at the Boarding Reception on Friday after 4:00pm and return by 8:00pm Sunday or 8:15am Monday. Sign in at the Boarding Reception when you return. If you need to stay in Boarding over the weekend, your parents should email the Head of Boarding. Extra nights may incur a charge.
Weekend Trips Weekend Trips & Permissions If you are planning to leave campus for the weekend, there are a few important steps to follow. Before You Go Complete the Weekend Form on Teams by Thursday. Your parent or guardian must email the Boarding Team with full travel details (both directions) and arrangements. All permission emails should be sent to: moderator@marymountlondon.com. The Boarding Office will confirm all arrangements with your parents or host. You must sign out at Boarding Reception when you leave. Travelling Abroad for the Weekend Please ensure your departure and return times fall within Boarding Hall hours. If this isn’t possible, you must stay overnight with your guardian and return the next morning. When travelling abroad all flight and transport details must be shared with boarding administration. Staying with parents or guardians Your parent or UK guardian must send an email giving permission and details. You must sign out at Boarding Reception when you are collected. Staying with Friends or Other Family Your parent or guardian must email permission. Your host must send an invitation email including: Their address A contact phone number Departure and return times
Leaving Campus Guidelines Things to Remember Your phone must be fully charged before leaving campus. Boarding must have your correct phone number. Save the helpline number: 07786 365 947. Stay in your assigned groups at all times. Always check and follow your return time. You must sign out and sign back in at Boarding Reception. Grade 6-7 (travel in groups of 3 or more) Sign Out
Return By
One school night (Mon–Thurs)
6:30pm
Friday after school
7:00pm
Saturday (from 9:00am)
7:00pm
Sunday (from 10:00am)
7:00pm
Grade 8-9 (travel in groups of 3 or more) Sign Out
Return By
One school night (Mon–Thurs)
6:30pm
Friday after school
8:00pm
Saturday (from 9:00am)
8:00pm
Sunday (from 10:00am)
8:00pm
Grade 10 (travel in groups of 2 or more) Sign Out
Return By
One school night (Mon–Thurs)
6:30pm
Friday after school
9:00pm
Saturday (from 9:00am)
9:00pm
Sunday (from 10:00am)
8:00pm
Grade 11 (travel in groups of 2 or more) Sign Out
Return By
Two school nights (Mon–Thurs)
7:00pm
Friday after school
9:30pm
Saturday (from 9:00am)
9:30pm
Sunday (from 10:00am)
8:00pm
Grade 12 (may travel individually or in groups) Sign Out
Return By
Two school nights (Mon–Thurs)
7:00pm
Friday after school
10:00pm
Saturday (from 9:00am)
10:00pm
Sunday (from 10:00am)
8:00pm
School Holidays Arrangements Boarding is closed during the October half-term, Christmas break, February half-term, Easter, and summer holidays. During these times, you may return home, stay with your Guardian, or stay with a friend. Holiday dates are published a year in advance on the school website to help you plan ahead. Please book flights in good time so they fit around the school schedule. If this isn’t possible, you will need to stay with your Guardian before departure or after arrival. You may be asked to pack up your room at the end of term. Boarding staff will support you with packing and safe storage of your belongings. Important: Early departures for holidays are not normally permitted. If there are exceptional circumstances, your parents must email the Headmistress at studentabsence@marymountlondon.com. Early Morning or Late Night Travel If your travel requires very early or late departure/arrival times, you will be asked to stay with your Guardian to minimise disruption in the Boarding Halls.
Health & Wellbeing School Nurse Only the Nurse can decide if you need to miss school. If you are unwell for several days, you may need to stay with your Guardian until you recover. This will be arranged together with the Nurse, your parents, and Guardian. During the school day, the Nurse is available in the Infirmary for medical or personal matters. All discussions are confidential. If the Nurse is not in school, contact the Boarding Office. At the start of the year, you will be registered with a local NHS Medical Centre. The Nurse can make appointments with a doctor, dentist, optician, or specialist. During the Night If you feel unwell at night, knock on your Houseparent’s door or call the Boarding Helpline. In the morning, if you are able, meet the Nurse in the Dining Hall. If not, ask your roommate to notify the duty Houseparent. Infirmary If the Nurse confirms that your illness is infectious, you will be moved to the infirmary and your guardian will be contacted to discuss if you need to go home. Opportunities for honesty: There are QR codes placed in each boarding hall; if you have any concerns or worries about Boarding, all submissions and comments are anonymous.
Medication & Health Checks Marymount follows UK regulations on medication in schools. Bringing Medication When you arrive, give all medicines to the Houseparents. Prescribed medication must: Be accompanied by a prescription in English. Be in the original packaging. Be clearly marked with your name. Without this, the School Nurse may not be able to administer it until checks are complete. Note: Not all medicines are licensed for use in the UK; please check before arriving. Taking Medication Medication can be taken: At breakfast or in the evening (handed out by Houseparents). During the school day via the School Nurse. Students over 16 must discuss regular medication with the Nurse. If the School Nurse is unavailable, common medications (e.g., ibuprofen or paracetamol) and prescribed medications are available from the Boarding Office.
Boarding Leadership & Cultural Life Boarding Fundraising Committee This committee organises events and sales to support the RSHM African Missions. If you’d like to get involved, watch for advertising with more details on upcoming activities. Boarding Council The Council is made up of students who meet regularly to represent the student voice and help improve boarding life. New Council members are elected in February each year—look out for information on how to get involved. Responsibilities may include: Highlighting concerns or issues to Boarding staff Suggesting ideas for boarding improvements Organising events and activities Leading the placement of ‘Boarding Families’ within the community Meeting with the Headmistress Cultural Events Boarding celebrates cultural festivals through special dinners and activities, including: Christmas & Easter Lunar New Year Diwali & Eid Africa Day And other cultural celebrations Boarding encourages students to engage in leadership, community, and cultural life, helping everyone feel included and connected.
Emergency Information School Emergency Contact Numbers: Reception: 220 School Office: 242 School Nurse: 252 Out of hours contacts: Boarding Office: 242 Boarding Helpline: 07786 365 947
Fire Drills: If the fire alarm sounds, leave the building by the nearest safe exit. Fire doors have green signs above them to help in evacuations You should not travel to the fire assembly point through any other buildings The fire assembly point is located on the front lawn next to the driveway. During Boarding hours, you will line up by your Hall and your Houseparent will register you Please have slippers and a dressing gown available in Boarding to have on hand in case of fire alarms in case of an overnight alarm.
Key Contacts in School The Boarding Office and Reception is open all day until 8:30pm. You can also call the Boarding helpline anytime or send a message via Teams. Sometimes you may need someone to talk to, share concerns, or get advice. You can reach out to your Advisor, Head of Year, Teachers, Houseparents, and other staff. Here are key contacts: School Counsellor Tel: 020 8949 0571 (Ext. 223) Email: counsellor@marymountlondon.com Availability: Tues & Thurs 11:00am–6:00pm, Fri 11:00am–4:00pm Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Ms Langan Tel: 020 8949 0571 (Ext. 202), Out of hours: 07557 271 546 Email: langana@marymountlondon.com Deputy DSLs Ms Horton – 020 8949 0571 (Ext. 268 or 242), boardinghead@marymountlondon.com Mrs Annie Plumridge – plumridgea@marymountlondon.com, 020 8949 0571 (Ext. 268 or 242) School Nurse Tel: 020 8949 0571 (Ext. 252) Email: nurse@marymountlondon.com Mrs Giblin (DSL trained) Email: headmistress@marymountlondon.com Independent Listener Lucy Gibbs – lucy.smith261@outlook.com Remember, no concern is too small—please reach out whenever you need support.
External Support Kingston Safeguarding Services Tel: 0208 547 5008 Childline Tel: 0800 1111 NSPCC Website: www.nspcc.org.uk Tel: 0800 136 663 Office of the Children’s Commissioner Website: www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk Tel: 0800 528 0731 Confidential Worry Box Located outside the Nurse’s Office and in the Gailhac bathrooms. Independent Listener Lucy Gibbs – lucy.smith261@outlook.com Remember, you can reach out at any time—inside or outside school, for support, guidance, or to raise a concern.
marymountlondon.com | +44 (0)20 8949 0571 admissions@marymountlondon.com