This Information Guide is designed to give a brief introduction to the essential ingredients of life at St. Edmund’s and parents are asked to take note of and comply with the guidance, recommendations and regulations contained in this booklet.
USEFUL CONTACTS
HEADMASTER
Dr AJ Walliker
HEADMASTER’S PA
Mrs J Willcox hmpa@saintedmunds.co.uk
DEPUTY HEAD
Mr S Barnes s.barnes@saintedmunds.co.uk
BURSAR AND CLERK TO THE GOVERNORS
Mrs JM Beeston bursar@saintedmunds.co.uk
HEAD OF ACADEMIC SUPPORT
Mrs A-M Burke amb@saintedmunds.co.uk
DEPUTY HEAD (LEAD DSL) AND DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL LEARNING
Dr J Carlin jc@saintedmunds.co.uk
MINIBUS ENQUIRIES
minibus@saintedmunds.co.uk
SCHOOL OFFICE
Mrs S Wassell schoolsecretary@saintedmunds.co.uk
Mrs L King admin@saintedmunds.co.uk
HEALTH CENTRE
Mrs S Moxley
Mrs S Elston
Mrs J Johnston healthcentre@saintedmunds.co.uk
Telephone: 01428 604808 Website: www.saintedmunds.co.uk
Email: schoolsecretary@saintedmunds.co.uk; admin@saintedmunds.co.uk
Address: St. Edmund’s School, Portsmouth Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6BH @stedmundshindhead @stedmundsschoolsurrey
Absences: If your child is unable to come to School, please let the School Office know so that the appropriate teachers can be informed. Children arriving after 8.30am must report to the School Office before they go to their Form rooms. If we have not received a message by 11.00am the School Office will get in contact. Advance requests for permission to be absent from School during term time must be made in good time to the Deputy Head, Mr S Barnes.
Academic Support: As our teaching groups are small and the staff/child ratio low we have plenty of opportunities to observe the children carefully. If we suspect a specific problem, we take advantage, in the first instance, of specialist advice from the Academic Support Department. A child’s needs may come to notice on admission, during lessons, through screening procedures or by an expression of parental concern. Parents are involved from the earliest stages and parental support and views are valued. The Academic Support Department operates an open door policy for all the staff and frequently visit classes to observe children and/or to offer advice. We are always ready to work together with professionals from other agencies to identify needs and provide the best learning opportunities for children. Please note, individual academic support lessons are an additional cost and fees can be found listed on the website.
Activity Evenings: Activity evenings take place throughout the year for Forms 3 to 11 and are very popular with the children. Bookings are made via the Parent Portal on the website.
Calendar: The School Calendar is distributed before the start of every term and acts as a useful guide to the wide variety of events taking place during the term. We welcome parental involvement at St. Edmund’s and parents are warmly invited to attend all events marked with an asterisk in the Calendar. Please do ask the School Office if you would like any more information about events which are unfamiliar to you.
Chapel: St. Edmund’s has its own Chapel where regular visitors from different denominations talk to the pupils. Our Christmas Carol services are usually held at St. Luke’s Church, Grayshott.
Daily Routine: Please see individual school sections.
Divisional System: There are four Divisions (Houses) at St. Edmund’s: Arrow (Yellow), Wolf (Red), Crown (Blue) and Martyr (Green). Each term a cup and a party are awarded to the winning Division and friendly competition is fostered in a variety of ways throughout each term.
Dogs: Parents are presently allowed to bring dogs onto the school grounds on condition that:
a) the dog is kept on a lead;
b) the dog is supervised by an adult and not by a child;
c) that any mess made by the dog is cleared up;
d) dogs are not allowed inside any school buildings.
Food: The School caterers produce freshly prepared well balanced meals for pupils on a three week rotation which changes each term. Every day there are hot options including a vegetarian choice and a salad bar. During the mid-morning break pupils are offered sandwiches or a home baked biscuit or cake, fresh fruit and a drink. During the afternoon break they are offered fresh fruit and a drink. It is the School’s policy that pupils are not allowed to bring food into School, not even items such as birthday cakes, sweets, etc., due to the risk of allergic reactions. Some children require special diets for health reasons and these are carefully planned by the School Nurse and the Catering Manager.
The School operates a ‘nut free’ policy because some children in School suffer from severe allergies. If you have any queries, please contact the Health Centre.
FOSE: St. Edmund’s is very fortunate to have a supportive and enthusiastic group of parents and friends who organise social events throughout the year. Particular highlights are the Bonfire Night, Quiz Night, the Summer Fete and the Christmas Fair. FOSE hold regular coffee mornings at School and parents are warmly invited to attend. To find out more about FOSE, please email the Chair of FOSE on fosechair@saintedmunds.co.uk
Grounds: The school grounds provide an environment which is secure yet challenging. Lessons outside and break times give pupils opportunities to take risks and make mistakes, to think creatively,
to solve problems, to investigate, imagine and to understand the need for rules. The space at St. Edmund’s provides a resource for activities of all ages and abilities allowing for progression and continuity. Under careful supervision children develop self-awareness of their own physical capabilities and outside safety.
Teacher/child guidance is particularly important outside the classroom, but not to the detriment of exploration and discovery. With growing independence, spontaneous and co-operative play is established. External classroom situations invoke enthusiastic responses from the children, whose natural inquisitiveness is stimulated. Every aspect of the curriculum makes an easy transition to outside lessons, developing meaningful cross-curricular links. Outdoor space allows children to move freely and regular physical activity in the early years helps to set a pattern of fitness for the rest of life. We also aim to nurture feelings of caring responsibility to the school grounds and the well-being of the environment in general by generating positive attitudes to environmental problems in both the school and the world at large. We look at issues such as litter, habitat destruction and care for plants and animals. The children are encouraged to take an informed, positive role in environmental stewardship.
Lost Property: From time to time it is inevitable that pupils become separated from their possessions, but this is often for a short duration and owner and property are soon reunited. Please do ensure that all items are named clearly. If you have any concerns about lost property, please contact the School Office.
Medical Matters: Our nursing team assists with the promotion and maintenance of the pupil’s health and wellbeing whilst at School. The Health Centre is located on the ground floor opposite the Puntablock. The nurses respond to accidents and ill health and maintain a record of accidents, illnesses, treatment and medication given. Parents are informed of any accidents that occur and/or any treatment given. They are responsible for the storage and administration of medicines and we ask that medication of any type is handed into the School’s Health Centre for safe keeping. The nurses provide support for families of any child
with long-term medical needs and liaise with parents regarding the procedures for children who are ill or infectious. The School has an Infection Control Policy which sets out the measures taken to prevent the spread of infection and we strictly adhere to recommended exclusion periods to manage infectious diseases. The Health Centre is open during School hours and the nurses can be contacted via email or Tel: 01428 604808 – Option 3.
Music Tuition: For all enquiries regarding private music tuition, including singing lessons and instrument tuition, please email music@saintedmunds.co.uk
Off Games: If your child needs to be off games for medical reasons, please inform the Health Centre by email before the start of the school day so that the games staff can be informed.
Open Mornings: Each term the school holds an Open Morning on a Saturday for prospective parents. All pupils from Form 3 upwards are expected to attend, unless otherwise advised. Form 11 are not expected to attend Open Mornings in the Lent and Summer terms.
Pupils need to attend between 9.30am and 12.30pm wearing clean and tidy school uniform. Request for absence from Open Morning must be given with as much notice as possible in writing to the Deputy Head, Mr S Barnes.
Parent Portal: The Parent Portal is accessible via the School Website, and you will be given a log in and instructions on how to use it from the School Office in the holidays prior to your child joining St. Edmund’s. All co-curricular, mini-bus, school trips and ad-hoc events are booked on the Parent Portal. Useful documents and notices are also uploaded for parents to access. If you have not been given a login, or indeed have difficulty in opening the Parent Portal, please contact Mrs S Wassell in the School Office.
Policies and Inspection Report: There are a number of policies available for parents to access, either via the School Website, the School Office or the Parent Portal.
School Trips: We carry out a full risk assessment before taking children on outings. All our visits are carefully planned and equipped. The Assessment takes into
account the nature of the outing, and considers staff ratios. Parental permission via the Parent Portal is sought for children to take part in outings with the exception of local walks.
School Uniform: All items of School uniform can be purchased from our suppliers, Stevensons (www.stevensons. co.uk). The uniform lists can be found on the Parent Area of the website, and for new parents, the lists are included in the joiner literature. Please make sure that all items of uniform are clearly marked with your child’s name, using their initial and surname in an obvious place.
Second-hand Uniform: As a School we recognise that our children regularly grow and that buying uniform can be expensive. We are grateful to our parents who run the St. Ed’s School Uniform Buy and Sell Facebook page where second hand uniform is sold. Search Facebook for St. Ed’s Uniform Buy and Sell. FOSE also run a second hand uniform shop, please contact fosechair@saintedmunds.co.uk
Security: All visitors to the School are required to report to the School Office on arrival.
Sports Clothes: All sports clothing relevant to the term should be brought in clean on a Monday morning – this includes swimming kit. Pupils are encouraged to take home their kit for washing on a Friday/ Saturday or indeed any night should it be
necessary, but it should be remembered that it is used every day. Where studs are worn, particularly in rugby, they must carry a kite mark. Gum-shields are compulsory for pupils playing rugby, hockey and lacrosse, and shin pads are compulsory for football and hockey. New and additional sports kit can be purchased from the Uniform shop. Please refer to the uniform list for the appropriate match kit for your child’s sporting activity. Clean kit is imperative for all matches.
Sports Equipment: These may be brought into school and rooms are set aside for their storage. Please make sure items are clearly named.
Social Media and the Arrow: The School Newsletter ‘The Arrow’ is issued online each term. St. Edmund’s also has its own Facebook page, Instagram and LinkedIn account so you can keep up to date with everything that is going on in School. Find us at:
Instagram: @stedmundsschoolhindhead
Facebook: stedmundshindhead
LinkedIn: stedmundsschool
Travel, Pick-up & Drop-off: The main entrance to the School is from the A333 Portsmouth Road which may be used to enter the School site. A one way system operates and the exit from the School site is via Crossways Road when departing the School. Drivers are requested to ensure that they maintain a slow and safe speed when driving on School property.
Transport: If you are interested in your child using the minibus to get to and from school, please have a look at our minibus website (saintedmunds.vectare.co.uk) to find out more, such as finding your nearest stop. Bus routes are looked at each year and every attempt is made to ensure that stops are in the safest and most convenient locations. Requests for new routes will be given careful consideration. Return minibuses are available on most routes with departure from School at 5.40pm to allow children to benefit from supervised prep and 4.40pm on Fridays. For further information, please email minibus@saintedmunds.co.uk
Website: The School website is regularly updated with photographs and news reports relating to the pupils activities and is located at www.saintedmunds.co.uk
This section is designed to give a brief introduction to the essential ingredients of life at St. Edmund’s in Nursery.
Absences: If your child is unable to come to school, or a late arrival is anticipated, please let the Nursery know. You are able to call the Nursery directly on 01428 772351. If we have not received a message by 11.00am, the School Secretary will call. If your child is going to be away from Nursery for a holiday, please give advance notice to Mrs K Bailey, Head of EYFS.
Admissions: Before a child is admitted to St. Edmund’s, we seek information which ranges from who has parental responsibility and legal contact with the child to emergency contact numbers. Once a child has enrolled for Nursery, they are automatically enrolled for a place in the school. A notice period of a term is required if you intend to remove your child from the Nursery or school. If you would like to reduce your sessions at Nursery, then a notice period of 4 weeks is applicable. As well as requiring written parental permission for medical treatment, we also seek information about health and developmental problems, food allergies, and any special dietary requirements.
After School Care: Children may stay for our After School Clubs, including “Stay and Play” until 4:20pm (Mon-Fri) and “Little Ed’s Picnic Club” until 5:30pm (Mon-Thurs). All the provision is held within the Nursery buildings. Those that stay until 5.30pm are given a picnic supper. We maintain a 1:6 ratio. For details of After School care charges/booking please see Fees information. All bookings can be made via the Parent Portal.
Our Mission statement: Children who attend Little Ed’s are given the confidence to make the most of their abilities, to be independent learners, to have the opportunity to develop their skills within a nurturing environment and the expectation that everything and anything is possible with the right encouragement and support.
A secure, welcoming and friendly environment with a variety of challenges and experiences each day. Opportunities to be independent and make choices in their own learning and play.
Providing the best opportunities to gain the early skills that are necessary to build their foundations to learn.
Opportunities to explore their surroundings and to learn in the great outdoors.
An introduction to and securing values such as being kind, being helpful, listening to each other, sharing and looking after their environment.
Provision of a platform to enable them to develop at their own pace and level. A setting where the children feel respected, valued and where their voice is heard.
Outstanding staff who are positive role models, who know the children well and are familiar with their individual needs.
An environment providing the children with a sense of belonging.
Mrs K Bailey kb@saintedmunds.co.uk
Communication: We are keen to share information with parents. Whilst reports and parents’ evenings are important, the Nursery teachers are always ready to discuss individual children’s progress and the provision that we offer. Appointments can be easily arranged after school directly with the Nursery teachers or the Head of EYFS, Mrs K Bailey. The children’s happiness is very important so do always tell us of problems as they arise however trivial they may seem. Parents are also able to log in online to view their child’s learning journey and photos via a secure system.
Internal communication with parents is via email so please do keep the School Office up to date with any changes to contact details. Emailed letters and general information are sent home periodically throughout the term. Regular emails and newsletters will also come from the Nursery to keep parents up to date and informed.
Classes: Our classes are arranged as follows:
Nursery 1: 2-3 years
Nursery 2: 3-4 years
Movement between the Nursery classes is dependent upon both the children’s ages and their general development. We consider each child’s needs before they transfer from class to class. Equally, the number of sessions that each child attends depends upon the requirements of individual families. After an initial settling in period, most children in the Nursery classes gradually increase their attendance. As the year progresses, more children stay for full day sessions thus benefiting from the full range of activities on offer. Children generally make any move or increase their sessions at the beginning of a term but changes can be requested during the course of a term. In Nursery 1 (2-3yrs) we maintain a 1:4 adult to child ratio. In Nursery 2 (3-4yrs) we maintain a 1:8 adult to child ratio.
Curriculum: We follow the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) framework, that allows the children in Nursery to develop confidence, become independent learners, enjoy their school life and acquire skills to allow smooth transition to the next stage of their education. The provision for our Nursery classes incorporates the seven areas of learning:
Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Literacy, Communication and Language, Mathematics, Physical Development, Understanding the World, Expressive Arts and Design.
We believe that young children should learn through their play, and it is our aim to provide a safe, caring environment in which the children’s imaginations can be stimulated. Small classes mean that our staff develop a close working relationship with our pupils and our environment equips the children with the skills necessary for their future education at St. Edmund’s. Through play, we enable pupils to practise, consolidate and extend their previous learning and experiences. Our planning is ‘child led’, focusing on children’s current interests and allowing for flexibility.
Daily Routine: Our Nursery children are welcomed into their classrooms from 8.00am. The Nursery day begins at 8.15am with morning sessions ending at 12.30pm, after lunch. Afternoon sessions begin at 12.30pm and end at 3.15pm.
A full day session starts at 8.15am and finishes at 3.15pm.
Our After School Clubs allow children to stay at Little Ed’s until 5:30pm (MonThurs) and 4:20pm (Mon-Fri).
Please refer to After School care for more information.
Food: The School caterers produce well balanced meals with the choice of vegetarian and fresh fruit on offer every day. Milk, water and sandwiches, healthy snacks or fruit are provided mid-morning and mid- afternoon. We also offer toast to the children that arrive early in the morning.
Forest School: Children in the EYFS department have their very own dedicated Forest School area within the school grounds. All Nursery and Reception children access this area regularly throughout the week with the Nursery staff, whatever the weather. We are passionate about play and learning through exploration and our Forest School enhances this experience for our youngest children. Sessions with a specialist forest school leader are provided half termly.
Sport and timetabled Activities: Nursery 2 children benefit from a weekly sport session with sports staff. Physical
play is also encouraged whilst out in the school grounds and in our fantastic Nursery garden.
All Nursery children have a weekly music lesson with one of our music teachers.
Nursery 2 children enjoy a weekly French lesson with a specialist language teacher
Nursery 2 children also enjoy weekly dance workshops with an external dance teacher.
Throughout the year EYFS children also enjoy visits from external providers including an annual farm visit, Zoolab, Fire Brigade, Forest School, Music sessions and craft activities.
Grounds: The outdoor space at St. Edmund’s provides a resource for lots of activities for all ages and abilities, allowing for progression and continuity. Children at Little Ed’s benefit from their own specifically designed garden area which is in use all day long – and they also enjoy regular use of all the school grounds by taking walks and learning outside the Nursery. Children strengthen muscles and refine motor skills, and regular physical activity in the early years helps to set a pattern of fitness for the rest of life. From tree climbing, to bug hunts – we love learning outdoors! EYFS children also have their own dedicated Forest School within our school grounds. This is accessed throughout the week by all Nursery children.
Holiday Club: Little Ed’s Holiday Club is available for parents to book throughout most of the school holidays. The day runs from 9.00am to 4.00pm. Please see the Parent Portal and the Head of EYFS for dates and more information.
Literacy: Early literacy is a part of the EYFS framework and starts with our 2-year-olds in the form of listening to stories, looking at books, naming pictures and objects and following rhythm. This progresses using the ‘Letters and sounds’ programme throughout Nursery 2 and then on into main school. Early Phonics sounds are introduced in Nursery 2, according to the individual child’s interest and ability. Other literacy skills such as mark making, pencil control and listening skills are all part of our daily provision. All these skills are introduced in a fun and inviting way for the children without formal expectation.
Medical Matters: All Key staff in the EYFS hold their paediatric first aid qualification and are able to administer prescribed and emergency medicines in the absence of surgery staff.
Online Learning Journey Software:
On-going informal recording of celebrations and achievements are part of our provision. Every child will progress and develop at their own pace, and we support their individual interests and abilities. Celebrations and achievements, reports and any required observations may be recorded online via a secure software system specifically for our Early Years children across Nursery and Reception so the transition to our Reception class is very smooth. Parents also receive a login for the online system, and we welcome photos and input from home, which creates a successful partnership with parents.
Outings: EYFS children are regularly out in the school grounds and woods. We maintain strict staff ratios whilst out and have a mobile phone to take with us in case of emergency. We will occasionally make local visits to Grayshott village or the Devils Punchbowl and will give parents prior notice of this.
Policies: We have specific EYFS policies and procedures that we will make parents aware of as your child starts with us.
Reporting to Parents: We believe that good communication between home and school is very important and we value the daily contact we have with parents. Our dedicated Nursery staff are always pleased to meet and chat with parents either before or after a Nursery session and we host a parent’s evening in the Summer term for a more thorough update on each child’s development. A written summary report is provided in the Michaelmas and Lent term via the online software system for EYFS. To ensure continuity, a designated member of our Little Ed’s team becomes each child’s key worker who will interact and relate with them every day, promoting their confidence and independence.
Security: All visitors to the school are required to report to the School Office. Parents are required to let EYFS staff know who is collecting their child each day from Nursery. We ask that anyone other than a parent collecting a child is given a
secure password previously agreed with us by the parent.
Settling In: We aim to establish good links between home and school and to provide effective support as children move from home, family and familiar people into the new community that they will meet at Little Ed’s. Children settle into Nursery in lots of different ways. Some children will walk confidently into their classroom as soon as they arrive and other children may be anxious about leaving their parents or carers.
We will offer at least three settling in visits for your Nursery child, and these can be increased according to individual needs. We also ask you to complete an ‘All About Me’ information sheet for your child so that we know as much about them and their home life before they start.
Swimming: Swimming lessons are available outside of Nursery hours for Nursery children.
Teaching Staff: Although the members of staff who work in Nursery have responsibility for specific classes, we strive to work as a team so that the provision for all of the children is the best that we can achieve. Key Nursery staff hold a minimum Level 3 childcare qualification and hold a paediatric first aid certificate. In addition to the nursery team, children are taught by a variety of subject specialists from the Prep School.
Travel and Parking: Nursery and Reception parents have a dedicated EYFS parking area located on the right-hand side directly in front of the Nursery building. Drivers are requested to ensure that they maintain a slow and safe speed when driving on school property.
Social Media: As well as the school
Instagram and Facebook page, we have a Nursery and Facebook page where we post news and developments. Media sharing permission is sought from all parents at the point of registration.
Well Child Procedure: Children should only be kept off school if they are unwell.
Definition of a well child
• A child who is not reliant on Calpol or similar medication
• A child who is not running a temperature of over 37.5 degrees
• A child who is well enough to participate normally in all areas of nursery and school activities
• A child who has their normal bowel functions
• A child who does not require a one to one ratio with staff
• A child with their normal appetite
What you need to provide for Nursery:
• We ask you to provide a clearly named water bottle for your child to keep at Nursery.
• A Nursery bag containing a full set of spare clothes.
• Wellies – clearly named please! We use our wellies a lot at Nursery.
• Nappies and wipes that you child may need.
• Sun cream if your child requires a specific one to be used.
• A named Nursery sun hat and winter hat depending on the term.
• All uniform clearly named with labels.
• Your completed ‘All About Me’ form prior to your child starting with us.
We look forward to welcoming you to Little Eds!
This section is designed to give a brief introduction to the essential ingredients of life at St. Edmund’s in Reception.
After School Clubs: Recognising that our parents have busy lives, children in Reception can stay with us for longer than 3.15pm by joining our after-school clubs. A healthy snack and drink is provided at 3.30pm, and optional pick up times are available. Booking is done via the Parent Portal, and children must be pre-booked in advance otherwise your child may not be included in the planned activity that day. There is a small extra charge for Little Ed’s Picnic Club which is added to your school invoice.
Fun for Free: 3.15pm to 4.20pm (Mon-Fri) Little Ed’s Picnic Club: 4.20pm to 5.30pm (Mon-Thurs)
Arrangement of classes: In Reception the children attend full-time and they move from class to class with their year group each September. Our teaching groups are small and we can meet most needs in the classrooms during these years; additionally, if appropriate, further support can be provided by the Academic Support Department.
Assemblies: We appreciate prompt arrival at 8.15am on the days where Reception have an assembly.
Being Independent: Proficiency in selfcare skills can make life much easier for our younger children as they join the Reception class. They are able to feel a justifiable pride in their organisation and independence. Any steps taken towards independence at home will really help your child as term begins, particularly with skills such as dressing themselves and using a knife and fork. Independence is encouraged throughout the Reception year, ensuring your child is
Our Mission statement: Children who attend our Reception class are given the confidence to make the most of their abilities, to be independent learners, to have the opportunity to develop their skills within a nurturing environment and the expectation that everything and anything is possible with the right encouragement and support.
A secure, welcoming and friendly environment with a variety of challenges and experiences each day. Opportunities to be independent and make choices in their own learning and play.
Providing the best opportunities to gain the early skills that are necessary to build their foundations to learn. Opportunities to explore their surroundings and to learn in the great outdoors.
An introduction to and securing values such as being kind, being helpful, listening to each other, sharing and looking after their environment.
Provision of a platform to enable them to develop at their own pace and level.
A setting where the children feel respected, valued and where their voice is heard.
Outstanding staff who are positive role models, who know the children well and are familiar with their individual needs.
An environment providing the children with a sense of belonging.
Mrs K Bailey kb@saintedmunds.co.uk
given the essential self- help skills they will require as they progress through the Lower Prep School.
Books: Children in Reception take their reading books home daily. Reading record books travel between home and school so that parents and teachers can make comments as needed. We ask that parents or another adult hear the children read most nights. The children are also encouraged to choose and take home books from our library during weekly library sessions. We know that each child will progress towards reading at their own pace and it is important that they have a sound understanding of early phonics sounds before they can start to read. Therefore, the first books your child brings home may only contain pictures to talk about – or be ones to read together. The most important thing is to encourage children to really enjoy books and stories, as this will develop into a love of reading when they are ready.
Communication: We are keen to share information with parents. Whilst written reports and parents’ evenings are important, the Reception teacher is always ready to discuss individual children’s progress and the provision that we offer. Appointments can be easily arranged after school directly with the teachers. The children’s happiness is very important so do always tell us of problems as they arise however trivial they may seem. Parents are also able to log in online to view their child’s learning journey and photos. One of St Edmund’s strengths is its feeling of community.
Regular emails and newsletters will also come from the Reception teacher, Mrs D Cozens and Head of EYFS, Mrs K Bailey to keep parents up to date and informed.
Curriculum: In common with the rest of the school, the academic arrangements providing teaching in Reception at St. Edmund’s are intended to allow the very best use to be made of the school’s resources for the maximum benefit of all the children in our care. We aim to provide a curriculum that allows all the pupils to access a broad and balanced timetable so that the children can develop confidence, become morally aware, enjoy their school life and acquire skills to allow a smooth transition to the next stage of their education. Small teaching
groups mean that our staff develop a close working relationship with our pupils. The EYFS curriculum is designed to allow children to be independent in their learning and we adopt a child led, individual approach to our planning and the environment. Each day resources and opportunities are provided for the children across the seven areas of learning:
Personal, Social and Emotional Development Literacy
Communication and Language
Mathematics
Physical Development
Understanding the World Expressive Arts and Design
Phonics is also included in the daily routine, as well as some teacher guided learning in areas such as numeracy, art and craft and ICT (using the interactive whiteboard). Reception children also benefit from additional activities on their timetable which include: French, swimming, sport, dance and music. These are all taught by specialist teaching staff from the Prep and Senior School so the children are in good hands! The Reception children also benefit from regular outdoor learning opportunities by accessing our school grounds and woods – plus the use of their own decking area outside.
The School also has an EYFS Curriculum Policy which is available upon request from the Head of EYFS, Mrs K Bailey.
Daily Routine: Children can arrive at school from 7.45am, with all form groups welcomed into their classrooms at 8.15am with registration promptly at 8.20am.
Children who arrive in school before 8.15am are expected to wait in the Jubilee Hall where they will be supervised prior to a member of staff taking them to their classroom. The Reception day ends at 3.15pm but may be extended to 4.20pm by participation in after school activities. Please see After School Clubs section for more information.
Forest School: Children in the EYFS department have their very own dedicated Forest school area within the school grounds. All Nursery and Reception children access this area regularly throughout the week with the nursery staff, whatever the weather. We are passionate about play and learning through exploration and our Forest School enhances this experience for our youngest children. Sessions with a specialist forest school leader are provided half termly.
Games and Activities: The school’s aim is that all pupils should enjoy games and sport, improving their skills and techniques by having their individual needs met. We are fortunate to have an indoor heated pool where children in Reception have weekly timetabled swimming lessons and the oldest established Prep School golf course in the country. Reception have weekly PE lessons with our specialist sport teachers, a dance lesson with an external dance teacher and a swimming lesson. As they progress through the school they have the opportunity to develop their skills in a wide range of sports.
Weekly music lessons are also part of the timetable and provide the opportunity for singing, learning about rhythm and different
musical instrument. Reception are part of an annual showcase performance with Forms 1 and 2.
Grounds: Reception use the grounds regularly and are encouraged to explore and learn about the environment by looking at the care of living creatures, how things grow, the different seasons and how to care for the environment.
Haircuts & Jewellery: Haircuts must always be sensible. Latest fashions, hair in the eyes, shaved or very close cropped cuts, spiked or dyed hair are not allowed. For boys, hair should be cut above the eyebrows, ears and collars. Girls must keep their hair tied/clipped back if it reaches their shoulders. Hair ties/ribbons should be simple and navy. If in doubt, please refer to the Headmaster prior to obtaining a particular hairstyle. Pupils are not allowed to wear jewellery, nor hair products such as gel or wax.
Handwriting: The children are taught to write in print as they are taught to write. A handwriting guide is sent home with Reception children who may wish to practice their letter formation at home and as a tool for parents so that they may support their child with writing in the same way they would at school, avoiding any confusion. Writing is introduced in a variety of ways within the Reception class, ensuring all children become engaged with writing in a fun way.
Holiday Club: Open for a further 13 weeks during the year for all Reception children.
Online Learning Journey Software: We use ‘Tapestry’ as an on-going informal recording of celebrations and achievements
within our EYFS provision. Every child will progress and develop at their own pace, and we support their individual interests and abilities. Celebrations and achievements, reports and any required observations may be recorded online via a secure software system specifically for our Early Years children across Nursery and Reception. so the transition to our Reception class is very smooth. Parents also receive a login for the online system, and we welcome photos and input from home, which creates a successful partnership with parents.
Policies: In addition to the various policies available to parents via the Parent Portal we have specific EYFS policies and procedures that we will make parents aware of as your child starts with us.
Reporting to Parents: Parents are invited to meet with the Reception teacher in the Michaelmas term while at the end of the Lent term, parents will receive a written report. A separate meeting is held at the end of the Summer term to feedback the Early Learning Goal achievements, as this signifies the end of the EYF and a report is given.
School Trips: We carry out a full risk assessment before taking children in Reception away on outings. All our visits are carefully planned and equipped. The assessment takes into account the nature of the outing, and considers whether it is appropriate to exceed our normal staff ratios. Parental permission via the Parent Portal is sought for children to take part in outings, with the exception of local walks to,
for instance, the village library on Boundary Road or to St Luke’s Church, Grayshott.
Security: Parents are required to let Reception staff know who is collecting their child each day from school. We ask that anyone other than a parent collecting a child is given a secure password previously agreed with us by the parent at the start of the academic year.
Sports Clothes: All sports clothing, including swimming kit should be brought in clean on a Monday morning and hung outside the classroom. We request jogging bottoms are provided all year round for use in Forest School.
Travel, Pick-up & Drop-off: EYFS Carpark: Reception Drop-off and 3.15pm and 4.20pm Pick-up is at the Reception decking gate.
Nursery Building: Collection at 5.30pm.
Well Child Procedure: Children should only be kept off school if they are unwell.
Definition of a well child
• A child who is not reliant on Calpol or similar medication
• A child who is not running a temperature of over 37.5 degrees
• A child who is well enough to participate normally in all areas of nursery and school activities
• A child who has their normal bowel functions
• A child who does not require a one to one ratio with staff
• A child with their normal appetite
This section is designed to give a brief introduction to the essential ingredients of life at St. Edmund’s in Forms 1 to 4.
After School Clubs: Children can stay with us until 5.30pm every day of the week by joining our After School clubs. For children in Forms 1 and 2 staying for clubs, a healthy snack and drink is provided at 3.30pm.
Optional pick up times are available after Fun for Free at 4.20pm and at 5.30pm after Late Club. Booking is done via the Parent Portal and children must be pre-booked in advance otherwise your child may not be included in the planned activity that day. There is a small charge for The Late Club which is added to your termly fee accounts.
Fun for Free: 3.30pm to 4.20pm.
(Forms 1 and 2)
Late Club: 4.20pm to 5.30pm.
(Forms 1 and 2)
Activity or Prep: 4.20pm to 5.30pm.
(Forms 3 and 4) – no booking required.
Arrangement of Classes: In Lower Prep the children attend full-time and they move from class to class with their year group each September. Only in very exceptional circumstances do children move out of their chronological year group. Our teaching groups are small and we can meet most needs in the classrooms during these years.
Assemblies: Lower Prep have their assemblies on Friday mornings. Children taking part in an assembly may be asked by their Form Taker to arrive at a specific time so that they are in place ready to start promptly at 8.30am. Parents are welcome to attend their child’s assembly.
Being Independent: Proficiency in selfcare skills can make life much easier for our younger children as they join Form 1. They
DEPUTY HEAD (ACADEMIC)
Mr RMA Taylor rmat@saintedmunds.co.uk
DEPUTY HEAD (PREP PASTORAL)
Mr H Bowen-Perkins hbp@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEADS OF FORMS 1 TO 4 (LOWER PREP)
Mrs K Taylor kt@saintedmunds.co.uk
Mr J Church jmc@saintedmunds.co.uk
are able to feel a justifiable pride in their organisation and independence. Any steps towards independence taken at home really help the children when they arrive at the beginning of term e.g. using cutlery and getting changed in and out of their uniform for games lessons.
Books: Children in Lower Prep take their reading books home daily. Reading Record books travel between home and school so that parents and teachers can make comments as needed. We ask that an adult hear the children read most nights. The children in Forms 1 and 2 are also encouraged to choose and take home books from our library during weekly library sessions.
Communication: We are keen to share information with parents. Whilst written reports and parent evenings are important, St. Edmund’s also recognises the significance of the Form Taker for Forms 1 to 4 as they also act as a Tutor to their Form. The Form Taker is the first point of contact for parents.
Appointments can be easily arranged for after school and an email is the preferred choice of written communication. The children’s happiness is very important to us so please do tell us of any problems as they arise, however trivial they may seem.
Curriculum: We aim to provide a curriculum that allows all our pupils to access a broad and balanced timetable so that the children can develop confidence, become morally aware, enjoy their school life and acquire skills to allow a smooth transition to the next stage of their education. Small teaching groups mean that our staff develop a close working relationship with their pupils. Structured play in Forms 1 and 2 enable the children to practise, consolidate and extend their previous learning and experiences. All pupils receive lessons in the following subjects within their weekly timetable:
(Forms 1 and 2) English, Mathematics, Science, Sport, LOTC (Learning outside the classroom), French, ICT, Topic Work, Art and RS (Religious Studies).
(Forms 3 and 4) English, Maths, French, Science, RS, History, Geography, ICT, DT (Design & Technology), LOTC, Drama, Food Technology, Art, Music and Sport
Forms 3 and 4 have a story with the Headmaster every Friday afternoon. Each
Form also has PSHE lessons (Personal, Social & Health Education). This covers a huge variety of topics ranging from manners to moral and health education.
The Lower Prep Forms are composed as mixed ability groups and the year groups are mixed every new academic year.
Daily Routine: Children can arrive from 7.45am and can go to a designated room to be supervised until 8.15am when they can go to their Form rooms. Registration is at 8.20am.
For Forms 1 and 2 the school day ends at 3.15pm but there is the option to join “Fun for Free” and stay until 4.20pm at no extra cost. Children can also stay until 5.30pm by joining Late Club at a small additional charge.
For Forms 3 and 4 the school day ends at 4.20pm with an optional finish time of 5.30pm. From 4.20pm to 5.30pm every day the children may participate in a wide range of after school activities or prep. The school buses depart at 5.40pm each day except on a Friday when they leave at 4.40pm. Please notify the School Office if you are unexpectedly delayed for 5.30pm pick-up.
Examinations: All children from Form 1 upwards are assessed using GL Progress tests and from Form 2 upwards they are assessed using CAT4. Other tests for monitoring progress are also used on a regular basis.
Games and Activities: In the Lower Prep, the focus remains on the love and
enjoyment of sport but there is more emphasis on developing the skills and techniques for our core sport,s as well as continuing the development of the children’s motor skills. In Form 1 and 2, the focus shifts towards basic skills, laying the groundwork for the competitive fixtures in Forms 3 and 4. Through a progressive curriculum, pupils are introduced to core sports such as football, netball, hockey, rugby, and cricket, gradually honing their skills and understanding of game strategy. Emphasis is placed not only on individual development but also on fostering teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. As the pupils reach Forms 3 and 4, they have the opportunity to participate in matches against other schools every week on a Thursday afternoon, further enhancing their sense of camaraderie and competitive spirit. We are fortunate to have an indoor heated swimming pool and children in Forms 1 and 2 have weekly timetabled swimming lessons while Forms 3 and 4 swim regularly in their games lessons. Beyond the regular curriculum, afterschool clubs and extra-curricular clubs offer additional opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and deepen their love for sport. At St. Edmund’s we offer: swimming, tennis, athletics, basketball, team games and cross country, as well as judo, golf, tennis and mountain biking which parents can book at an additional cost on the Parent Portal at the start of term. The school swim squad and run club* (*paid extra) train on chosen afternoons at
4.40pm. For more information on these please visit the Parent Portal or email the School Secretary. By instilling a passion for team games and fostering a sense of belonging within the sporting community, we aim to cultivate lifelong habits of health, teamwork, and joy in our pupils.
Haircuts & Jewellery: Haircuts must always be sensible. Latest fashions, hair in the eyes, shaved or very close cropped cuts, spiked or dyed hair are not allowed. For boys, hair should be cut above the eyebrows, ears and collars. Boys and girls must keep their hair tied/clipped back if it reaches their shoulders. Hair ties/ribbons should be simple and navy. Pupils are not allowed to wear jewellery, nor hair products such as gel or wax.
Earrings should not be worn in the Lower Prep.
Children are allowed to wear a watch if it has a digital or numbered face. Smart watches are not allowed to be worn in School.
Homework: In Forms 1 and 2 we encourage the children to do reading and spelling revision at home. In Forms 1 to 4 the children learn spellings and the older children practice their multiplication tables. During lengthy holidays Forms 3 and 4 may receive optional homework tasks to keep their skills sharp. Show-ups and plus points are often awarded as rewards. We are always grateful for any feed-back about the children’s response at home for we value the partnership that exists between
home and school in supporting each child’s learning.
Matches (Forms 3 and 4 only): Sports matches against other schools in Forms 3 and 4 take place on Thursday afternoons. In order to see whether your child has been chosen for a team, you will need to access SOCS, our sports app, via the School website under the Sports section. Details of fixtures, including the time, location and teams are updated regularly so we recommend you check before you travel or make after school arrangements. Please contact the School Office if you require assistance with using SOCS.
If your child is playing a fixture against another school they may be collected and taken home after the fixture provided that they do not have any further School commitments. In the case of a ‘home’ fixture the children are free to leave after the opposing team have departed, at approximately 4.20pm. In the case of an ‘away’ fixture pupils are free to leave after Match Tea. Please ensure that you inform the member of staff responsible for the team that you are taking your child home.
Mobile Phones: Mobile phones are not allowed in the Lower Prep. If children need to contact their parents during the School day they should go to the School Office for assistance.
Music & Drama: There is great scope for the children to participate in Music in the Lower Prep School. In Forms 1 and
2, children have a music lesson each week and individual instrumental tuition can also be arranged.
Pupils in Forms 3 and 4 can take part in Music Technology, as well as join the numerous choirs and orchestras available. Our esteemed Little Chapel Choir, ‘The Probationers,’ is made up of our Form 3 and 4 pupils and instils a sense of belonging within our musical community. Individual music and voice lessons can be taken with peripatetic Music teachers who visit the school and are taken on a rolling two-week schedule to avoid the children missing the same lesson every week. Booking information for lessons is sent out to parents at the beginning of every term.
Forms 3 and 4 have Drama lessons where they prepare for productions that take place during the year.
LAMDA (London Academy of Musical and Dramatic Arts) is also offered as a co-curricular option from Form 3. Private lessons are available by arrangement. Please email Mrs J Darrington on j.darrington@saintedmunds.co.uk for more information.
Playtimes: Play is a vital part of our younger children’s education. Through play, children not only begin to forge their place within the class but practice, consolidate and extend their previous learning and experiences. Playtimes can be daunting for our younger children so children in Forms 1 and 2 have different play areas from the rest of the Prep School. Outdoor toys are available to ensure that playtimes are fun.
Reporting to Parents: The pattern of reporting at St. Edmund’s is as follows:
Forms 1 and 2: Parents receive a written report at the end the Michaelmas and Summer terms. Parents are invited to meet with their child’s Form takers and specialist music and language teachers during the Michaelmas and Summer terms. Forms 3 and 4: Reports are published each academic year on the Parent Portal. These take the form of:
‘Symbols’ which are issued every half term and include effort grades and comments from the teachers of the major subjects. This information is used by a child’s Form taker who acts as their Tutor to discuss progress with them and to set appropriate
targets. The effort grades and the Tutor’s targets are recorded on the children’s Divisional Cards.
Reports are published on the Parent Portal and include details of general progress academically and pastorally as well as a brief résumé of the child’s activities so far that term.
Parents are invited to attend two parents’ evenings per academic year for Forms 3 and 4. Parents are informed when time slots are released for booking, with instructions on how to book.
Rewards and Sanctions: A Divisional card system is used for both rewards and sanctions. Rewards are called ‘plus points’ and are awarded by members of staff for academic work, effort, sporting achievement and participation, and for displaying an excellent or helpful attitude outside the Form room. Pupils in Forms 3 and 4 carry cards with them to record the plus points.
When a pupil has collected ten plus points on their card they are awarded a ‘star’. They then present this to the Headmaster and receive a sticker (Form 1 and 2), a ball
in their Divisional colour which goes down a ball tube and a treat known as ‘stodge’; alternatively they can opt to donate their stodge to charity. Children in Forms 3 & 4 can also opt to receive tokens to spend in the Headmaster’s shop.
Similarly, pupils in Forms 3 and 4 can be awarded a ‘minus’. A minus is given when a child has not behaved as is expected at School. Five minus points make a stripe, which must also be presented to the Headmaster and the points are deducted from the Divisional total.
Divisional cards are handed in every fortnight when a new set of cards is distributed.
Saturday Activities: Saturday Activities normally runs every other week and booking is open from the Wednesday beforehand for children to sign up to join a range of activities which take place between 9.30am-1.00pm. There are two activity sessions with a break between for refreshments. The variety of activities changes throughout the term but regularly includes woods and camp craft, swimming, archery, cookery, wide games, model making, and mountain biking. Children
attend in their home clothes and a tuck shop is available during the break where they can spend a maximum of £2.
Sports Clothes: All sports clothing should be brought in clean on a Monday morning and hung outside their classroom for Forms 1 and 2, or in the appropriate changing room for Forms 3 and 4. This includes swimming kit. Pupils must take their kit home for washing on a Friday/ Saturday or indeed any night should it be necessary, but it should be remembered that it is used every day! Studs on boots must carry a safety kite mark. Gumshields are compulsory for pupils playing rugby and hockey and shin pads are also compulsory for football and hockey.
Stationery: All pupils in each year group use a St. Edmund’s school bag for their books and stationery which can be purchased from Stevensons, our uniform supplier.
Reception, Forms 1 and 2: The school provides all necessary stationery with reading, spelling and library books kept in School book bags.
Forms 3 and 4: The school provides all exercise books and folders. Pupils should bring to school coloured pencils and at least two HB pencils, a rubber, pencil sharpener in a named pencil case and a 30cm ruler.
Children in Forms 3 and 4 will also need a named 2ltr Tupperware container for Food Technology lessons to be brought to school on the day of the Food Technology lesson.
Travel, Pick-up & Drop-off: The School operates a ‘kiss and drop’ procedure for morning drop-offs, whereby parents should remain in their car and drop off their child at the relevant point. Parents should also remain in their car and follow the loop for pick-up from the relevant location at 4.20pm or 5.30pm.
In brief, these pick-up/drop-off locations are: Forms 1 & 2: EYFS car park for drop-off and 3.15pm pick-up. A member of staff will be present in the EYFS car park to help usher in the younger pupils in Forms 1 & 2.
Forms 3 & 4: Puntabout near Puntablock
Parents will be notified if these locations change. Please notify the School Office if you are unexpectedly delayed for drop-off or pick-up.
This section is designed to give a brief introduction to the essential ingredients of life at St. Edmund’s in Forms 5 to 8.
Communication: The role of the Form Taker from Forms 5 to 8 is to register the pupils at 8.20am every morning. In Forms 5 and 6 the Form Taker is also the child’s personal Tutor who is responsible for their tutee’s academic and pastoral needs and is the first point of contact for parents.
Pupils in Form 7 and 8 have another member of staff who is their personal Tutor. Pupils meet with their personal Tutor several times a week between 8.30am and 8.50am before lessons start.
Individual subject teachers, Form Takers or Tutors can be contacted either via the School Office, or by email and they will respond to your enquiry as soon as practicable. If you need to see a member of staff, a formal appointment should be made beforehand. A child’s Tutor should be the first port of call for any academic or pastoral matters.
Internal communication with parents is via email so please keep the School Office upto-date with any changes to contact details.
Emailed letters and general information sheets are sent home periodically throughout the term. If you require hard copies of letters please let the School Office know.
Curriculum: Pupils have lessons in the following subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Food Technology, French, History, Geography, Spanish, Religious Studies, Drama, Art, Music, Technology (incorporating Information Technology and Design Technology), Classical Civilisation, (Form 6 upwards), Computer Science (Form 7 upwards), Latin (Form 7 upwards) as well as Physical Education and Sport
DEPUTY HEAD (PREP ACADEMIC)
Mr RMA Taylor rmat@saintedmunds.co.uk
DEPUTY HEAD (PREP PASTORAL)
Mr H Bowen-Perkins hbp@saintedmunds.co.uk
DIRECTOR OF GIRLS
Mrs S Richardson s.richardson@saintedmunds.co.uk
HEAD OF GIRLS FORMS 5 & 6
Mrs S Penfold s.penfold@saintedmunds.co.uk
HEAD OF GIRLS FORMS 7 & 8
Miss E Humfress e.humfress@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD OF FORM 5
Mr S van Oudtshoorn svo@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD OF FORM 6
Mrs K Lyall k.lyall@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD OF FORM 7
Mr P Messina pmm@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD OF FORM 8
Mr P Chichester pc@saintedmunds.co.uk
Science (Form 8 upwards). All subjects are taught by subject specialists.
Forms 5 to 8 are mixed ability and they are reorganised each academic year to foster social interaction. From Form 5 all teaching is by subject specialists and pupils are taught in academic differentiated sets for core subjects and not their Form groups. The use of academic setting increases as the children progress further up the School. Setting allows the children to receive their teaching at a pace appropriate to their ability and learning style. Each pupil has a bespoke timetable.
Each Form has Personal, Social & Health Education (PSHE) during the term. This subject covers a huge variety of topics ranging from manners to moral and health education. St. Edmund’s has its own Statement of Academic Policy which is available on request from the Deputy Head (Prep Academic), Mr R Taylor.
Daily Routine: All Form groups are welcomed into their classrooms from 8.15am with registration promptly at 8.20am. Pupils who arrive in school earlier than 8.15am (from 7.45am) will be supervised in a designated area of the school.
The school day ends at 4.20pm with an optional finish time of 5.30pm. From 4.20pm to 5.30pm every day the children may participate in a wide range of after school activities or prep.
The school buses depart at 5.40pm each day except on a Friday when they leave at 4.40pm. Please notify the School Office if you are unexpectedly delayed for 5.30pm pick-up.
Examinations: At certain points in the school years, there are exams for pupils in Forms 5 to 8. The timings of these are communicated to parents via the School Calendar, and more specific information is sent out to parents in the weeks beforehand. St. Edmund’s does not, as a matter of policy, release actual or practice examination papers (except when set as part of homework or revision) and ask that parents do not purchase practice papers for use at home without consulting first with the relevant Head of Department.
Games and Activities: In the Prep School, games lessons are structured to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for team sports but also to instil a deep enjoyment
and love for physical activity. All pupils in Forms 5 to 8 have games lessons four days a week, with competitive matches played on a Wednesday afternoon for all pupils. With a comprehensive curriculum spanning football, netball, hockey, rugby, and cricket, pupils progressively build their proficiency in each discipline, starting from the basics and advancing to more advanced skills and technique. These lessons prioritise teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship, emphasising the value of collaboration and mutual support on and off the field.
As well as our core sports, pupils also have the opportunity to try a wide variety of activities such as basketball, swimming, athletics, rounders, American football, triathlon, trampolining and gymnastics. There is also the option available to receive coaching from external specialists in golf, judo, tennis and mountain biking. These sessions take place in the Friday games lesson. Pupils learn the rules, techniques, and tactical aspects of each sport, cultivating a well-rounded understanding that goes beyond individual performance. Moreover, the inclusive nature of these lessons ensures that every pupil feels valued and empowered to contribute, fostering a positive environment where a passion for sports flourishes. Additionally, our afterschool clubs offer opportunities for further skill development and enjoyment, allowing pupils to pursue their interests in specific sports outside of regular curriculum hours. Through this holistic approach, we aim to not only nurture competent athletes but also to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the camaraderie and joy that team sports bring. Haircuts & Jewellery: Haircuts must always be sensible. Latest fashions, hair in the eyes, shaved or very close cropped cuts, spiked or dyed hair are not allowed. For boys, hair should be cut above the eyebrows, ears and collars. Boys and girls must keep their hair tied/clipped back if it reaches their shoulders. Hair ties/ribbons should be simple and navy. Pupils are not allowed to wear jewellery, nor hair products such as gel or wax.
If girls desire to get their ears pierced, it is expected that this is arranged within the summer holidays so that studs can be removed for school in September. Earrings should not be worn at School in Forms 5
and 6 and only a small round gold or silver stud may be worn at School in Forms 7 and 8.
Matches: Matches generally take place on Wednesday afternoons. In order to see whether your child has been chosen for a team, you will need to access SOCS, our sports app, via the School website. Details of fixtures, including the time, location and teams are updated regularly so we recommend you check before you travel or make after school arrangements. Please contact the School office if you require assistance with using SOCS.
If your child is playing a fixture against another School they may be collected and taken home after the fixture provided that they do not have any further School commitments. In the case of a ‘home’ fixture the children are free to leave after the opposing team has departed, at approximately 4.20pm. In the case of an ‘away’ fixture pupils are free to leave after Match Tea. Please ensure that you inform the member of staff responsible for the team that you are taking your child home.
Mobile Phones: Mobile phones are not allowed in the Prep School. If children need to contact their parents during, or at the end of the School day they should go to the School office for assistance. There are some circumstances whereby permission may be granted for a child to bring their mobile phone into school with them for safeguarding reasons; for example lone walking to school/bus stop.
If permission is granted, your child must sign in their phone with the School office on arrival. To obtain permission for your child to bring a mobile phone into school with them, please email the Deputy Head, Mr S Barnes.
Music/Drama/Dance: For children in Form 5 upwards, there are lots of choirs and orchestras available to join. Participation in the most selective choir, the Chapel Choir, requires success at audition. The Pop Choir, which is non-selective, also runs along the same age group.
All pupils who learn an orchestral instrument in Forms 5 to 11 are invited to be part of the School orchestra, a large ensemble that rehearses weekly. All children are encouraged to join one of our choirs, and individual music and voice lessons are taken with peripatetic Music
teachers who visit the school and are taken on a rolling two week schedule to avoid the children missing the same lesson every week. Booking information for lessons is sent out to parents at the beginning of every term.
The children have the opportunity to perform in regular choral and musical concerts both to the School community and often to a wider audience. The Chapel Choir participate in a choir tour once every two years, other local musical festivals and competitions and on local radio.
Form lessons for Drama are included in the weekly timetable and LAMDA is available as a co-curricular subject. Children work towards Form productions, participate in Drama workshops, prepare for their class assemblies and learn about theatre productions. All children have the chance to participate fully in School productions. These productions involve the close cooperation between the Drama and Music departments since they are usually musicals or musical theatre pieces. Private LAMDA (London Academy of Musical and Dramatic Arts) lessons are available by arrangement. Please
email Mrs J Darrington on j.darrington@ saintedmunds.co.uk for information.
Parent’s Evening: There is a formal Parent’s Evening for your child every other term to discuss their work with their subject teachers. If, however there is a particular problem you wish to discuss, please do not hesitate to make an appointment at an alternative time with the teacher concerned, or your child’s Personal Tutor.
Reporting to Parents: The pattern of reporting at St. Edmund’s is as follows:
Symbols are issued every half term and include effort grades, achievement grades and comments from teachers of the major subjects. This information is used by their Personal Tutors to discuss progress with individual pupils and to set appropriate targets. The effort grades and the Tutor’s targets are recorded on the children’s Divisional cards. You will be notified by the School office when Symbols are available to view.
Reports are usually published at the end of term on the Parent Portal area of the School website but different Form groups have different reporting structures each
term. Please contact Deputy Head (Prep Academic), Mr R Taylor for further details.
Rewards and Sanctions: A Divisional card system is used for both rewards and sanctions. The rewards are called ‘Plus Points’ and are given by members of staff for academic work, effort, sporting achievement and participation and for displaying an excellent or helpful attitude outside the classroom.
When a pupil has collected ten ‘Plus Points’ on their ‘Card’ they are awarded a ‘Star’, which they present to the Headmaster who gives them a ball in their Divisional colour and a treat (‘stodge’). ‘Stodge’ can be traded for ‘Headmaster points’ and used to buy things from the ‘Headmaster’s shop’ or to make a donation to Charity. The balls are added to the total in the Divisional tubes in the Playroom (the area outside the Chapel). The cards are taken in after a fortnight and a new set of ‘Cards’ is distributed. The children carry their ‘Cards’ with them at all times.
Similarly, a pupil can be awarded a ‘Minus’ point which is given when a child has not behaved as is expected at School. Five ‘Minus’ points create a ‘Stripe’ which must
also be presented to the Headmaster, the points are deducted from the Divisional total and an explanation of the infringements are sent home for parental signature.
Saturday Activities: Saturday Activities normally runs every other week and booking is open from the Wednesday beforehand for children to sign up to join a range of activities which take place between 9.30am-1.00pm. There are two activity sessions with a break between for refreshments. The variety of activities changes throughout the term but regularly includes woods and camp craft, swimming, archery, cookery, wide games, model making, and mountain biking. Children attend in their home clothes and a tuck shop is available during the break where they can spend a maximum of £2.
Sports Clothes: All sports clothing should be brought in clean on Monday morning – this includes swimming kit. Pupils must take their kit home for washing on a Friday or whenever necessary, but it should be in school every day they have games or matches. Children in Forms 5 to 8 should come into school in games kit on a Wednesday morning ready for matches that day but must also have a spare change
of kit in case of bad weather. Swimming kit must be in school every day.
Studs on boots must carry a safety kite mark and gum-shields are compulsory for pupils playing rugby and hockey. Shin pads are compulsory for football and hockey for both boys and girls. Pupils must wear clean and tidy match kit for matches as they are representing the school against other schools. Children in Forms 5 to 8 should come into school in match kit on a Wednesday morning ready for matches that day.
Stationery: The School provides all exercise books, folders and prep diaries. Pupils should bring to School a blue handwriting pen or blue ink fountain pen (not a biro), coloured pencils and at least two HB pencils, a rubber, pencil sharpener, Pritt stick and 30cm ruler. In addition, departmental requirements are:
Maths: Forms 5 & 6 require a basic calculator, Forms 7 & 8 require a pair of compasses, a protractor and a scientific calculator (eg. the Casio Classwiz FX83 GTCW or FX85 GTCW.)
Food Tech: Forms 5 to 8 require a named 2ltr Tupperware container for Food Technology lessons.
Travel, Pick-up & Drop-off: The main entrance to the School is from the A333 Portsmouth Road which may be used to enter the School site. A one way system operates and the exit from the School site is via Crossways Road when departing the School. Drivers are requested to ensure that they maintain a slow and safe speed when driving on School property.
The School operates a ‘kiss and drop’ procedure for morning drop-offs, whereby parents should remain in their car and drop off their child at the relevant point. Parents should also remain in their car and follow the loop for pick-up from the relevant location at 4.20pm or 5.30pm.
In brief, these pick-up/drop-off locations are:
Forms 5 & 6: Puntablock near Auden Building
Form 7: Visitor Car Park
Form 8: Farley Hall (4.20pm) or Visitor Car Park (5.30pm)
Parents will be notified if these locations change. Please notify the School Office if you are unexpectedly delayed for drop-off or pick-up.
This section is designed to give a brief introduction to the essential ingredients of life at St. Edmund’s in Forms 9 to 11.
Academic Clinics: Academic Clinics run Monday to Thursday from 4.40pm to 5.30pm during term time. Pupils will either be asked to attend by their teacher, or may choose to attend for additional support.
Academic Planner: All pupils in Forms 9 to 11 will receive an Academic Planner. This is where pupils will record Targets and Merits. It also contains key school information for pupils.
Clubs and Activities: During the week there is a timetabled activities session, where pupils will take part in a variety of activities to enrich and supplement their academic learning. These range from outdoor opportunities, community projects, study skills sessions and survival skills. There is also a comprehensive ‘clubs programme’ on offer for Senior pupils, including: Run Club, Rugby 7’s, Tennis, Girls Football, DT, Drama, Art, STEM Club, Rock Choir and Fitness Bootcamp to name but a few.
Communication: The role of the Form Taker is to register the pupils between 8.15am and 8.20am every morning, as well as lead the teaching of PSHE and the preparation of some in-class events. The most important person for you and your child is their Personal Tutor. They are responsible for having an overview of a pupil’s academic and pastoral needs and is the first point of contact for parents. Tutor groups are usually 10 pupils in size and meet twice a week. If there is an issue for a pupil which requires further attention, one of the Deputy Heads or the Headmaster will assist. For Senior Pastoral matters please contact
DEPUTY HEAD (SENIOR PASTORAL)
Mrs J Weetman j.weetman@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD (SENIOR PASTORAL)
Mr S Woodger s.woodger@saintedmunds.co.uk
DEPUTY HEAD (SENIOR ACADEMIC)
Mr S Hyett sh@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD (SENIOR ACADEMIC)
Mrs K Newens k.newens@saintedmunds.co.uk
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL LEARNING
Dr J Carlin jc@saintedmunds.co.uk
DIRECTOR OF GIRLS
Mrs S Richardson s.richardson@saintedmunds.co.uk
ASSISTANT HEAD OF SENIOR GIRLS
Mrs S Le Guyader s.leguyader@saintedmunds.co.uk
Mrs J Weetman and for Senior Academic matters please contact Mr S Hyett.
Individual subject teachers, Form Takers or Tutors can be contacted either via the School Office or by email and they will endeavour to respond to your enquiry as soon as practicable. Internal communication with parents is via email so please keep the School Office up to date with any changes to contact details. Emailed letters and general information sheets are sent home periodically throughout the term. If you require hard copies of letters please let the School Office know.
Daily Routine: All Form groups are welcomed into their classrooms from 8.15am with registration promptly at 8.20am. Pupils who arrive at school earlier than 8.15am (from 7.45am) are expected to wait in a designated room where they will be supervised. The school timetable runs to 5.30pm with an optional finish time of 4.40pm if preferred. From 4.40pm to 5.30pm every day, the pupils may remain in school for supervised prep and / or Academic Clinics.
Duke of Edinburgh: Form 9 pupils will be invited to take part in completing the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. For those pupils who pass their Bronze Award they will be invited in Form 10 to complete their Silver Award.
Enrichment: From the start of Form 9 until the January of Form 11, pupils take part in a varied Enrichment Programme (which focuses on Sports, Community, Hobbies, Outdoor Opportunities and Life Skills). The Enrichment Programme recognises that preparing young people for the world today requires more than just a string of excellent exam results. As a tightknit community we seek to develop pupils’ individual strengths and help them acquire the qualities needed for success: resilience, resourcefulness, adaptability, ambition and emotional intelligence.
Examinations: There are examinations for pupils in Form 9 in the Michaelmas and Summer terms. All pupils are assessed using the CAT4 test in the Michaelmas term. Other tests for diagnostic and/ or monitoring progress are also used on a regular basis. In Forms 10 and 11, examinations take place in the Lent and Summer terms. In order to standardise
results, make year-on-year comparisons, and preserve suitable stocks of practice papers, St. Edmund’s does not, as a matter of policy, release actual or practice examination papers (except when set as part of homework or revision).
Future Schools: References for Sixth Form and Future Schools are arranged through the Deputy Head (Senior Academic), Simon Hyett.
Games: In our Senior School, games lessons are designed to offer a diverse range of options alongside the core sports, catering to the varied interests and abilities of our pupils. All pupils in the Senior School have games lessons four days a week with matches played on Tuesday afternoon. While football, netball, hockey, rugby, and cricket remain integral components of our curriculum, we also provide opportunities for pupils to explore alternative activities such as tennis, basketball, waterpolo, athletics, swimming, and even non-traditional sports like ultimate frisbee or capture the flag. This inclusive approach ensures that every pupil can find a sport or activity that resonates with them, fostering a sense of enjoyment and fulfilment in being active. Additionally, we offer elite level sport and scholarship training programmes for pupils who demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication in sport, providing them with specialised coaching and support to reach their full potential. We are fortunate to have both an indoor heated pool and one of the oldest established school golf courses in the country, the mountain bike trail, astroturf and Farley Hall all enhance the sports facilities that we have here on site. However, our emphasis remains on inclusivity, with a commitment to ensuring that all pupils feel valued and supported in their pursuit of physical activity, regardless of their skill level or background. Through this balanced approach, we aim to instill a lifelong love for sports and physical fitness in every pupil, enriching their overall wellbeing and sense of belonging within our school community.
Grayshott Visits: Pupils are permitted to visit Grayshott village during their lunch break on two occasions per half term. In addition, each time a pupil accumulates three Merits, they are awarded an additional village pass. Pupils must abide by the school rules for visiting Grayshott
at all times during their visit, and must sign out and in with the member of staff on duty. Poor work or behaviour may lead to the removal of this privilege for a period of time.
• Should wear only the approved uniform, from Stevensons, the school outfitters.
• Shoes should be plain black with a heel of no more than an inch. Ballet pump style shoes are not permitted.
• Skirts should be worn on the waist and not rolled over. The length should be no shorter than 1 inch above the knee.
• Should wear navy blue tights (40 denier or above) or navy blue ankle socks.
• May wear one pair of plain, small, stud earrings in the bottom of the lobe of their ear. These must be removed before playing sport. No other piercings are allowed.
• May wear a watch.
• Hair should be out of the eyes and kept tidy at all times. Bright or gaudy hair accessories of any kind are not permitted. Any hair colours/highlights should be in natural shades.
• Should wear only the approved school from Stevensons, the school outfitters.
• Should wear plain black shoes, with a heel that is distinct from the sole (trainer style or Velcro fastening shoes should not be worn.)
• Should wear only plain black ankle socks.
• May wear a watch.
• Shirts must be tucked in, top buttons on shirts done up and ties pulled up at all times (in warm conditions, this may be relaxed as appropriate).
• Haircuts should always be sensible. It should be cut above the eyebrows, ears and collar. Latest fashions, dyed, shaved or very close cropped cuts are not permitted. Gel or wax should not be used to create unnatural looking hair styles.
• Clean shaven.
The following are not allowed:
• No rings or bracelets (with the exception of medical bracelets) may be worn.
• Facial or body piercings.
• Charity bands or any other form of fashion accessory.
• Badges or brooches of any kind apart from those awarded by school.
• Tattoos.
• Fake tan.
• Make-up, false eye lashes, nail varnish, gel or acrylic nails.
• Hair extensions, braided hair, with beads or fashion accessories.
Any unauthorised jewellery worn to School will be confiscated. Anyone wearing make-up will be asked to remove it and the School has stock of make-up remover. The guidelines for dress and appearance are in the pupils’ Academic Planner and a detailed Uniform Policy is available from the School Office.
Mobile Devices for Learning: Senior pupils are required to purchase a specified Microsoft Surface device to use in lessons when they enter the Senior School in Form 9. Please contact Dr Carlin, Director of Digital Learning, jc@saintedmunds.co.uk for further information.
Mobile Phones: Pupils may bring their mobile phones to school, provided that they and their parents have signed and returned the Acceptable Use Policy. The phones are signed in with their Form Taker each morning and signed out when the pupil leaves for the day. Mobile phones are not permitted in lessons. If pupils need to contact their parents during the school day,
they should go to the School Office for assistance. Any abuse of mobile phones will lead to appropriate sanctions which are likely to include the confiscation of the mobile phone for a period of time.
Parents’ Evening: There are two formal Parents’ Evenings each year. Parents are expected to attend with their child. If, however, there is a particular problem you wish to discuss, please do not hesitate to make an appointment at an alternative time with the teacher concerned, your child’s Tutor or one of the Senior School Deputy Heads.
Prep: Pupils will normally be set prep in every subject every week. Each prep is
expected to take 20-30 minutes in Form 9, 30-45 minutes in Form 10 and 45-60 minutes in Form 11. At least 48 hours will be given to complete them. Prep is set on MS Teams and there is a prep schedule that indicates which nights are allocated to each subject; however, pupils are free to organise their own study time to work around any other commitments they may have as long as the work is handed in on time. Pupils will be able to stay at school every day between 4.40pm and 5.30pm to complete prep in a supervised session, but it is the expectation that some work will need to be completed at home each night. If your child regularly struggles to complete their prep within the time set, please inform the Subject Teacher or the Personal Tutor.
Reporting to Parents: The pattern of reporting for Form 9 to 11 at St. Edmund’s is as follows:
Parents are updated on pupil progress every half term. This takes the form of a written report or a Parents’ Evening. Reports are not provided in a half term where a Parents’ Evening has taken place.
Written reports include effort grades and comments or targets from teachers. From July of Form 9 onwards, “Challenge Grades” and “Working At Grades” for I/ GCSEs are also given to indicate current
progress and what teachers believe pupils can potentially achieve. Written reports are published via the Parent Portal on the School Website and come in two formats, Progress Reports and End of Term Reports.
Progress Reports are issued after the first half of a term. If there is no end of term report for that form due to a parents’ evening tutors will comment on details of general progress academically and pastorally as well as a brief resumé of the pupil’s activities so far that term.
End of Term Reports are issued at the end of the 2nd half of term and are longer more detailed reports. End of Term Reports comment on attainment, exam results, effort and targets for improvement. They include a longer more detailed teacher comment for each subject as well as a comprehensive tutor report.
Leavers Reports replace the End of Term report in the Summer term of Form 11.
Rewards and Sanctions: Outstanding work or other achievements will be recognised via a Merit recorded in the Academic Planner. A digital reward system operates for good work or positive behaviour known as a ‘Green Slip’. Five Green Slips are equivalent to a Merit and these are collated by Tutors. Pupils are
able to visit the nearby village of Grayshott as a reward for sustained good behaviour, effort and/or achievement. Sanctions may take the form of a restriction of privileges, discussions with the Teacher, Tutor, one of the Deputy Heads or Headmaster. A digital ‘Blue Slip’ system operates to record poor behaviour, late or sub-standard work. In some cases, pupils may receive a detention or be placed on report. Poor work will need to be redone so that it meets the standards expected. Blue Slips are monitored initially by Tutors and then by the Deputy Head (Senior Pastoral).
Senior Academic Workshops: On designated Saturdays pupils in Forms 10 and 11 may attend Academic Workshops, covering a range of subjects over the course of the year. The session runs from 9.30am to 1.00pm with four 50 minute sessions including a short break. Pupils do not have to wear uniform but must dress appropriately for a productive work atmosphere with no revealing or inappropriate clothing.
Parents will be advised by the School Office when they can sign their child up on the Parent Portal for the relevant sessions. Whilst we are delighted for pupils to attend, please do let us know in advance so that teachers can ensure they have planned their workshops and resources for the appropriate number of pupils.
Stationery and Equipment: The school provides all exercise books, folders and academic planners. Pupils should bring to school a black or blue handwriting pen or a black or blue ink fountain pen (not a biro), coloured pencils and at least two HB pencils, a rubber, pencil sharpener and 30cm ruler. Please note all I/GCSE exams require a black pen. Senior pupils use a school rucksack for their books and stationery which can be purchased via Stevensons. In addition a pair of compasses, a protractor and a scientific calculator (we recommend the Casio Classwiz FX83 GTCW or FX85 GTCW) and a 30cm ruler is required for Maths.
Food Technology: GCSE Food Technology pupils require a named 2ltr Tupperware container for Food Technology lessons.
