CONTENTS
HEADTEACHER’S WELCOME
INTRODUCING OUR TEAM
KEY INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND PUPILS
Academic Assessment
Attendance & Absence Reporting
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD Years 3-6 only)
Communication
Drop off & Collection
Key Policies
Medical forms
Canteen
Ramadan
Enrichment
School Fees
Term Dates
The Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The School Day
Transport
Uniform
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DAY
LOCATION
HEADTEACHER’S WELCOME
Dear Parents,
I am excited to welcome you to our all-through school as your child takes their first steps along the Sherborne Way.
Starting a new school often holds a mixture of anticipation and trepidation as your child contemplates the new context and routines. At Sherborne School we have a skilled and supportive team who will help you and your child navigate this new landscape. Our aim is that our pupils settle quickly into their new class and school, feeling secure, supported and happy.
Your child’s form teacher will guide them in their daily interactions and activities, forming positive relationships based on our core values.
Our expectations and ambitions for our pupils are high. At the heart of your child’s learning experience we create a calm, purposeful learning environment offering the opportunity to explore, engage and develop both academic curiosity and emotional intelligence. We encourage our pupils to give of their best, to grow holistically through the range of experiences offered, and to take their next steps along the Sherborne Way with confidence.
I look forward to welcoming you and your child into the Sherborne family. We are here to support you all on this exciting new educational journey.
With my very best wishes,
Mary Robertson-Barnett Headteacher
Sherborne School, Mall of Qatar
INTRODUCING OUR TEAM
With our outstanding pastoral care, built on our moral values of: Respect, Kindness, Honesty, Teamwork, Responsibility & Perseverance we know that for our children to thrive and find their brilliance they need to feel secure and happy in their environment, which is why all we do is based upon their needs as individuals. With a whole-school approach to well-being, underpinned by our wonderful House system, we pride ourselves on feeling part of ‘a family, within a family’.
The team is led by Mrs Robertson-Barnett, Headteacher. She is supported by Mr Richard Williams, Assistant Head Sherborne School, Mrs Sameena Boota,Deputy Head Academic and Mr Borby Eybrrahim, Deputy Head Pastoral. Our team works with our exceptional classroom teachers to ensure that your child feels known, valued and heard.
As part of our all-round approach to education, children are encouraged to share and discuss their thoughts and feelings, whether in class through our carefully crafted Well-being & PSHE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic) programme, or in smaller groups with our School Counsellor or Learning Support department.
Senior Leadership Team
Mary Robertson-Barnett Headteacher mbarnett@sherborneqatar.org
Richard Williams Assistant Head rwilliams@sherborneqatar.org
Sameena Boota Deputy Head (Academic) sboota@sherborneqatar.org
Borby Eybrrahim Deputy Head (Pastoral) beybrrahim@sherborneqatar.org
ACADEMIC
Based on the foundations of our Learning Dispositions, which are Communication, Creativity, Risktaking, Independence, Resilience and Curiosity we have developed a curriculum that is aspirational and personalised for our pupils. Our curriculum has the National Curriculum for England (2014) as its underlying structure, but our teaching and learning are tailored to our Sherborne Qatar pupils to ensure our content is enriching and purposeful. Our Values and Learning Dispositions are the core of our curriculum.
The Read Write Inc. and White Rose Maths schemes of work are followed throughout the school. The Talk for Writing structure is also used and these all ensure we do not lose the British nature of our education, which is also very evident in the themes and topics which are taught.
ASSESSMENT
We believe in a formative approach to assessment, starting in Pre-School with regular observations, carried out in a partnership between home and school. These involves children identifying their ‘next steps,’ which are communicated regularly through written reports and online / in person parent meetings across the year.
End of term or end of unit assessments are carried out in our core subjects and also in Arabic, Islamic Studies and Qatar History. However, although these summative assessments provide evidence, they are not the ‘defining grade.’ Through our outstanding teaching we know your children very well; therefore, professional judgements, communicated clearly and regularly with you, is what we believe is best.
We aim to provide a well-rounded education to help the children develop and be rich in character. We regularly assess how our pupils are performing in relation to our Values and Learning Dispositions, as well as the curriculum skills and objectives that they are investigating through our thematic approach.
Mary Robertson-Barnett Headteacher
Sameena Boota Deputy Head (Academic)
Richard Williams Assistant Head Borby Eybrrahim Deputy Head (Pastoral)
ATTENDANCE & ABSENCE REPORTING BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE
Please note that our target attendance is 90% and this matches the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s requirements for pupils attending Qatari Independent schools. Attendance is something which form teachers and the Senior Leadership Team monitor closely. Allowing for periodic illness and any authorised absence, form teachers will send a warning letter to the parents of any pupil whose attendance is significantly below the target figure. This letter will state the current attendance % and say that the school is looking for a significant improvement. We would hope that this will be sufficient but, for those pupils whose attendance does not improve, there will be further periodic letters, which will escalate in seriousness and which will also be logged with the ministry.
Please note that all applications for leave of absence should be made, in writing and in advance, to the Deputy Heads, Mrs Sameena Boota Deputy Head (Academic) at sboota@sherborneqatar.org and Mr Borby Eybrrahim Deputy Head (Pastoral) at beybrrahim@sherborneqatar.org
Applications are judged on a case-by-case basis and parents will be notified of the decision. Making an application does not guarantee that any absence will be an authorised absence and leave will normally only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
As new technologies continue to change the world in which we live, they also provide many new and positive educational benefits for learning.
The Prep School at Sherborne School, Mall of Qatar is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) School for Years 3 to 6 inclusive. We require pupils in Years 3 to 6 to use laptops with a Windows operating system. This is so that they can participate effectively in classroom learning and develop their skills in presenting media, safely exploring the digital world and computer science.
It is essential that these laptops have the following specifications;
• Windows operating system 10 or above
• Touch screen
• Window ink
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Stylus
• Webcam
Why not an iPad or Apple Mac?
We encourage the use of laptops because although Apple devices provide learning facilities, the iOS operating system does not support the Microsoft software we use in school as easily as laptops with a Windows operating system.
To suit the specification we recommend that the most suitable option is a Microsoft Surface Pro. Surface Pro 8 or 9.
Some other suitable suggestions for devices are:
• Microsoft Surface Go 2: Introducing the Surface Go 3
• Microsoft surface Go 2 LTE Advanced
• Microsoft Surface Laptop 4: New Surface Laptop 4
• Microsoft Surface Pro 8
• Microsoft Surface Pro X
Local Suppliers: There are a number of ways to purchase these Micorsoft devices. We suggest:
• Jarir Bookstore - Qatar Shopping Guide (jarir.com)
• Virgin Megastore - MICROSOFT Online Store | MICROSOFT 2021 Products| Virgin Megastore Qatar
Additionally, Amazon can deliver to Qatar relatively quickly but with a delivery charge.
COMMUNICATION
Now that you are part of the Sherborne family it is vital that we have open lines of communication between us, yourselves and your child/ren. Form teachers will remain your key points of contact throughout your time with the school.
We greatly value face-to-face meetings and there are numerous formal and informal opportunities for this to happen. You can find all the key policies on the school website.
The school uses the Class Dojo application to share messages and information with parents through Class Story and School Story. The school also uses email to share important letters or key details when necessary. As well as our social media platforms, we also have Parents’ Notices which are shared weekly, providing brief overviews from the week just gone, important reminders of what is coming up, as well as other useful pieces of information.
Finally, all parents have access to the Parent Portal which is part of our management information system. This portal allows for all reports to be accessible at any point while a pupil is registered at the school. All parents will receive an activation email when their child joins the school and this will include guidance on how to access reports. If you do not receive the email, kindly contact our Data Manager, Sameer Aziz. saziz@sherborneqatar.org.
We consider ourselves to be an open and friendly school, so if you have anything on your mind, please pick up the phone, send an email or come into school. We are always here to help.
DROP OFF & COLLECTION
For the safety of the whole community we ask you to please take a note of the information listed below, so that at the busy times of the day, we are all working together.
All visitors should enter through Gate 1 and report to reception.
For families of children across all key stages, parents and children should enter through the gate of the youngest child
Please respect the instructions of teaching staff on duty and our security team.
Gate No. Notes
KEY POLICIES
At Sherborne Qatar we have a comprehensive range of policies which cover all facets of school life. Many of these are readily available on our website or on the Parent Portal. Other useful information, including up-to-date inspection reports can also be found on the website.
Parents will be asked to complete and submit an online Home School Agreement and relevant ICT Child & Parent User Agreement before their children start school. Our Admissions Department will send you the link separately.
MEDICAL FORMS
The health and well-being of our pupils is so important. To ensure we are giving your child appropriate care and advice, it is essential that our medical records are up to date. Therefore, all new parents are asked to complete and submit an online medical form before their children start school. It is your responsibility as parents to keep us informed of any changes to the medical needs of your child or any medication which they use. Failure to keep us informed may result in your child not being able to enter school or participate in activities and school trips.
If you have any queries relating to the medical care provided at our schools, kindly email our Lead Nurse, Mrs Baron at rbaron@sherborneqatar.org.
CANTEEN
Our provider offers a wide variety of healthy snacks, drinks and meals from our spacious Cafeteria before, during and after school. The canteen is currently available as an alternative to packed lunch for pupils in Years 2 to 6 only.
We operate a cashless system with pupils using cards to purchase food and drink. Credit can be added to the cards by parents online, and by pupils before and after school.
Your child will receive a card from the tutor at the beginning of the year, or new or replacement cards can be purchased from the cafeteria staff directly.
In terms of packed lunches, please note in line with our health-promoting school ethos, sweets, chocolate and fizzy / energy drinks are not allowed.
Finally, due to the allergies of others, seeds and nuts are forbidden in school. Thank you for your understanding.
RAMADAN
Ramadan is the Holy Month in the Islamic calendar, when Muslims fast (also known as sawm) from sunrise to sunset for approximately 30 days (sometimes 29 days) and is one of the five pillars of Islam. The dates change annually as they’re determined by the sighting of a new moon – for many Muslims, from Saudi Arabia. The start and end of Ramadan will be declared the day before. Look out
for announcements from school and Instagram pages such as ILoveQatar.net regarding the start of Ramadan.
Muslims will not eat or drink from dawn to sunset. It is also about practising generosity, goodwill and self-control. Generally, fasting is not recommended to people who suffer from medical conditions or women who are pregnant. Non-Muslims, menstruating women and young children are also exempt from fasting during Ramadan. Drinking and eating in public is considered very offensive and can even attract a fine or a reprimand from the police in Qatar, even if you are exempt from fasting. Everyone is expected to be respectful by not eating or drinking in public places or to use designated screened off areas within public places.
Here are a few things to be mindful of in Ramadan:
Restaurants are closed during the day and most shops according to industries have different opening times. It is important to double check times before heading out to avoid disappointment. Also try and get government, ministry or any official work done before Ramadan, as things slow down during this period.
With a large proportion of the community fasting, it is also important to consider refraining from wearing anything revealing or tight, avoid public display of affection or swearing and refrain from playing loud music. Although these are emphasised throughout the year in Qatar, the importance is heightened during Ramadan. Finally, be careful when driving during Iftar time (sunset) as this becomes rush hour. Please note, during the month of Ramadan, the school day is shorter. Timings are approved by the Ministry of Education, and these are usually confirmed a few days before the start of the Holy Month. In recent years, Ramadan hours for the Prep School have been 8:30am –12.45pm but are always subject to approval.
ENRICHMENT
At Sherborne School we aim to provide opportunities for our pupils to explore new activities and to awaken and develop their talents, whether already known or yet to be perceived. The enrichment programme, scheduled outside of timetabled lesson time, provides a range of activities to promote holistic growth and resilience. Sessions are run by school staff and specialist outside providers. Through the pogramme pupils engage and grow in a fresh context, appreciating their learning from a new perspective.
Mrs Rebecca Baron Lead Nurse
SCHOOL FEES
All parents will be asked to read and sign the Fees Policy when they register their child. This policy can be found on our website. Sherborne Qatar Schools have 3 terms per year. Invoices will be emailed to parents no later than one month prior to the payment due date. The Finance Office is open Sunday to Thursday, from 7.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. Holiday opening hours may differ. For any queries relating to the payment of fees and the Qatari education voucher scheme, kindly email Daika Lagang on dlagang@sherborneqatar.org
TERM DATES
TERM DATES
2024-2025
Autumn Term 2024
Sunday 1st September
Sunday 1st September Term starts for all pupils at 10:00
starts for all pupils at 10:00
Sunday 27th to Thursday 31st October Half Term
THE PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)
Dear Parents,
On behalf of the Sherborne Qatar Parent Teacher Association (PTA), I am delighted to introduce you to the PTA. We are a group of parents and teachers, whose priority is the well-being of our children and supporting the school community.
Throughout the year we have various fundraisers and events, designed to provide funds to enrich our children’s educational experience, over and above what the school would be expected to provide from fees.
We are excited to build community across all the schools within the Sherborne Qatar family. We are proud to bring those schools together and create connections across the schools and foster community amongst our parents and children.
Sunday 27th to Thursday 31st October Half Term
Tuesday 17th December
Tuesday 17th December
Autumn Term 2024
Term ends at normal time for pupils
Sunday 1st September Term starts for all pupils at 10:00
Spring Term 2025
ends at normal time for pupils
In March 2024, we were thrilled to welcome more than 2,000 people from the Sherborne Qatar community to the Spring Fair, hosted at the Sherborne School, Mall of Qatar. This is just one of the events we have planned for the year to come.
Monday 6th January Term starts for all pupils at 10:00
Monday 6th January
Term 2025
Sunday 27th to Thursday 31st October Half Term
Tuesday 17th December
Tuesday 11th February
Tuesday 11th February National Sports Day
starts for all pupils at 10:00
Term ends at normal time for pupils
Spring Term 2025
Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th February Half Term
Sports Day
Monday 6th January Term starts for all pupils at 10:00
Thursday 27th March
Term ends at normal time for pupils
Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th February Half Term
Tuesday 11th February National Sports Day
Thursday 27th March
Sunday 13th April
Summer Term 2025
Term starts for all pupils at 10:00
ends at normal time for pupils
Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th February Half Term
Sunday 20th April
Thursday 27th March
Sunday 13th April
*Thursday 5th to Thursday 12th June
Sunday 20th April
Sunday – SCHOOL CLOSED
Term ends at normal time for pupils
Summer Term 2025
Al Adha – SCHOOL CLOSED
Sunday 13th April Term starts for all pupils at 10:00
Tuesday 1st July Term ends at 12 noon
Sunday 20th April
*Thursday 5th to Thursday 12th June
Tuesday 1st July
starts for all pupils at 10:00
Sunday – SCHOOL CLOSED
*Thursday 5th to Thursday 12th June Eid Al Adha – SCHOOL CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
Pre-School and Reception pupils have a staggered start / shorter day initially. Parents will be notified of their child’s schedule.
ends at 12 noon
Tuesday 1st July Term ends at 12 noon
Your involvement and support are highly valued and greatly appreciated. If you would like to know more then please contact us on SherborneqatarPTA@gmail.com. Please keep an eye on regular notices from the PTA.
Kind Regards
Lucy Fowlie Chair Sherborne Qatar PTA
THE SCHOOL DAY
Year Group Gates open Registration Depart Activities End
Pre-School 6.50am 7.00 - 7.30am 12.30 or 1.35pm (parents can choose either time)
Reception 6.50am 7.00 - 7.30am 1.45pm 2.45pm
Pre-School and Reception pupils have a staggered start / shorter day initially. Parents will be notified of their child’s schedule.
Parents of pupils in the examination years (Years 11, 12 & 13) must note that some external examinations will be held on Fridays, during Ramadan & national holidays and may continue up to 1st July 2025. You should avoid committing to travel arrangements during these times.
Sherborne Qatar reserves the right to make amendments to dates as and when necessary and will endeavour to give as much notice as possible.
Parents of pupils in the examination years (Years 11, 12 & 13) must note that some external examinations will be held on Fridays, during Ramadan & national holidays and may continue up to 1st July 2025. You should avoid committing to travel arrangements during these times.
Years 1 - 6 6.50am 7.00 - 7.10am 1.45pm 2.00pm 2.45pm
Pre-School and Reception pupils have a staggered start / shorter day initially. Parents will be notified of their child’s schedule.
Parents of pupils in the examination years (Years 11, 12 & 13) must note that some external examinations will be held on Fridays, during Ramadan & national holidays and may continue up to 1st July 2025. You should avoid committing to travel arrangements during these times.
Sherborne Qatar reserves the right to make amendments to dates as and when necessary and will endeavour to give as much notice as possible.
Sherborne Qatar reserves the right to make amendments to dates as and when necessary and will endeavour to give as much notice as possible. TERM DATES 2024-2025
Please note:
• The times have been designed for curricular needs and to help with traffic flow
• Pupils must be in their classrooms in time for Registration
• Pupils who arrive late for Registration must ensure they register with their Form Teacher. This is to ensure that we have an accurate record of who is in school
• Activities for Reception pupils take place in the Summer Term
TRANSPORT
UNIFORM
Alongside our high expectations of attendance are our expectations for school uniform. We are very proud of our school and the high standards we set ourselves. A visible sign of these high standards is our school uniform. We believe wearing the Sherborne uniform:
• Promotes pride in The Sherborne Penny,
• Engenders a sense of community and belonging towards the school and each other,
• Identifies the children with our school, with the Penny, which in turn, symbolises all the Values and Learning Dispositions that we stand for.
Due to new ministry guidelines, boys from Year 4 wearing shorts must ensure they are not above the knee and girls’ skirts must reach below knee. For PE kit, girls need to wear non-transparent tights beneath their shorts or can wear PE trousers.
EYFS
GIRLS’ DAYWEAR
Pre School / Reception
YEAR 3 TO YEAR 6
GIRLS’ DAYWEAR
YEAR 1 TO YEAR 2
GIRLS’ DAYWEAR
PRE-SCHOOL TO YEAR 6
Parents have a duty to send their children to school correctly dressed and ready for their daily schoolwork. One of the responsibilities of parents is to ensure that their child has the correct uniform, and that it is clean and in good repair. Thank you for your support.
All items on our uniform list are available to purchase from Noble House at www.noblehouse.qa and our unique school code is SG0805
Here is the uniform list and Noble House’s items can be viewed here.
EYFS
BOYS’ DAYWEAR
Pre School / Reception
PRE-SCHOOL TO YEAR 6 HOUSE SHIRT
YEAR 1 TO YEAR 2
BOYS’ DAYWEAR
YEAR 3 TO YEAR 6
BOYS’ DAYWEAR
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DAY?
On your child’s first day, we ask that you meet us in the Main Reception where our School Receptionist, a member of the team will welcome you and take you to your child’s class so you can see the environment and briefly meet your child’s Form Teacher – helping to put your mind at ease! We will then talk with you about morning and afternoon routines and answer any questions you may have. At the end of the first day and indeed every day, your child’s Form Teacher will be on hand to meet with you let you know how the day has gone. Please ensure your child brings in plenty of water and a healthy packed lunch.
LOCATION MAP
www.sherborneqatar.org
Contact us at office@sherborneqatar.org
School office opening hours are: Sunday - Thursday 7:00am - 3:00pm
Phone: +974 4495 4555
