I am delighted that your sons will be joining us at Sherborne in the very near future. I am sure they will be experiencing a mixture of emotions, both excitement and nervousness – both/either of which are completely normal!
To help you and your sons prepare for September, we have created this booklet which contains some important and, we hope, useful information. Moving from one school to another opens a wealth of exciting possibilities but we want to do all we can to ensure that the process is as smooth as possible.
You may have questions about the School, its academic and co-curricular programmes, expectations, policies, House routines and so on. We have tried to anticipate many of these but, if you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us. Meanwhile, we look forward very much to seeing you soon.
We have tried to anticipate many of these but, if you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us. Meanwhile, we look forward very much to seeing you soon.
With best wishes,
Life at Sherborne
Boarding at Sherborne is at the centre of the enriching education that we provide.
Boys are given the space to be individuals, to explore interests and to fly with new ideas, while learning to live in a close community that requires them to respect and celebrate the differences in others.
The Boarding House communities provide the ideal environment for boys to develop the personal and inter-personal qualities they will need for life beyond School; integrity, responsibility for oneself and others, resilience, self-awareness, empathy, leadership and service, and a good sense of humour.
To provide the best boarding experience, we believe that full 24/7 boarding should mean just that and the Houses are as full and busy at weekends as they are during the School week.
Roles and responsibilities
The Housemaster (HsM)
The HsM is responsible for all boys in the House and especially for their care and welfare. They ensure that their academic work is progressing well (in liaison with tutors) and that their School life is fulfilling, without being overloaded. They are your
main point of contact; please get in touch with them if you have any concerns or worries, as well as any good news that you would like to share. Conversely if you have potentially upsetting news for your son, please advise his HsM.
The House Tutors
In addition to the HsM your son will have a personal tutor who will see your son at least once a fortnight individually and will build up a good working relationship with them and with you. The tutorial team within your son’s Boarding House is important and it is hoped you will get to know all of the people involved as well as possible.
In addition, other members of the House: Matron, Housekeeper, Assistant Matron and domestic staff, all provide listening ears of differing kinds. Please encourage your son to turn to them as well as to his tutor or HsM. Older boys and Prefects are often a great support and your son might also want at some stage to talk to the Chaplain or the School Counsellors or one of the Health Centre Team.
Arrival at Sherborne
New boys arrive a day before the remainder of the School, so that they may settle into unfamiliar surroundings and have a chance to get to know the Prefects and the others in their year group.
This year, term begins on Sunday 31 August for new boys. Boys and parents are invited to attend a Service of Welcome at 2.00pm. Boys should wear their suits to this service, and might wish to change into them at their Boarding House.
From 1.00pm to 1.45pm there is time to move boys into Houses where they will be greeted by House Prefects and staff. Prefects will be on hand to assist with unloading and carrying trunks. Because parking is restricted outside Boarding Houses, please move your car to a public car park or to the School Courts once you have finished unloading.
Following the Service, parents are invited to return to the Boarding Houses for tea before having the opportunity to meet the Headmaster before departing. Meanwhile the boys will start their programme of familiarisation.
Beginnings and ends of terms, half-terms and Exeats
A boy may leave after his last School and House commitments (including for example lessons, matches, and rehearsals) on the final day of a half-term or at the beginning of an Exeat.
At the beginning of a term (except for a boy’s first term), boys are expected to be back in the House by 7.30pm. After half-terms and Exeats, they should return by 9.00pm. Boys are welcome back to House from up to three hours before these times. They are permitted to travel to and from School in their home clothes.
Requests to leave early or return late should be avoided if at all possible. In unavoidable circumstances, such requests must be made in advance and in writing to the HsM.
Coach/minibus transport is available to certain destinations. For details please see the Travel Arrangements section later in the booklet.
It is important that parents confirm the location of their son(s) at Exeats with their HsM. If a boy asks to take an Exeat somewhere other than at home, it is essential that the HsM has confirmation from the parents of his host (or from some other responsible adult at the address where he is intending to stay) that they have issued an invitation, and also from his own parents that they approve.
Leave of absence
Requests for a leave of absence outside of the normal Exeat weekends will be considered, but not automatically granted. Such requests must be made to the HsM, who will consult the Deputy Head (Pastoral) before giving an answer.
HsMs may give leave of absence for:
• On pastoral grounds
• For attendance at interviews or examinations
• For activities concerned with the education or career advancement of a boy.
The permission of the HsM is required in advance for important family occasions, such as the silver wedding of parents, the marriage or twenty-first birthday of a sibling, or the christening of a godchild. The Headmaster will consider requests for absence on other occasions, but permission may not be granted. Requests should be directed to a boy’s HsM in the first instance.
Visiting your son
You are most welcome to visit your son at the weekend and your support will always be appreciated at any House or School event.
Your son may go out on any Saturday between 12.30pm and 9.00pm and on any Sunday between 12.30pm and 7.00pm, provided that all School commitments are given priority.
The Parent Portal and the School website will give some idea of when and what those commitments might be. There will always be exceptions to these general guidelines, so if you are in any doubt please get in touch with the HsM.
Please note that trips out or extra time at home in the first few weeks of a boy’s career in School might be a little unsettling (especially in advance of the first Exeat weekend).
One final point: the School Values, Expectations and Standards state that boys must not travel in a motor car driven by anybody under the age of 23, unless the HsM has written permission from parents.
For all calendar and term dates, please visit the School website: https://www.sherborne.org/news-andevents/term-dates and Parent Portal.
Chapel
CHAPLAIN:
Reverend Dr David Campbell david.campbell@sherborne.org tel: 01935 810498
The spiritual well-being of all boys in School is very important, and the Chaplain seeks to provide opportunities to encourage, support and nurture the spiritual development of those from faith and those from non-faith backgrounds.
Sherborne Abbey provides a magnificent setting for full School services. The Chapel is adjacent to The Courts and is used regularly for smaller services. Other venues are used for informal gatherings, so that boys and staff can feel relaxed in each other’s company when they come together with a common purpose.
Whilst all services are Christian, in keeping with the foundation and tradition of the School, they are made as inclusive as possible, so that those from different faiths and those from no faith may find something to reflect on, be thankful for or be challenged by. The Chaplain is available to all members of the community.
Pattern of Services
Wednesday
8.10am
Sixth Form Chapel Prayers
Voluntary
6.30pm
School Abbey Service
Friday
8.10am
Junior Chapel
Compulsory for Third, Fourth and Fifth Forms
9.00pm
Candlelit Eucharist in the Chapel
Voluntary
Sunday
11.30am or 7.45pm
School Abbey Service
Compulsory for all boarders
Parents and friends are most welcome at Friday night Eucharist as well as Wednesday and Sunday services.
Day Boys
Although day boys are not required to attend every Sunday, they are welcome at all services and must be present at those services designated as full School services.
Michaelmas Term
There are three key events in the Michaelmas Term, including Remembrance, Advent Service and the Carol Service. Please refer to the website for dates: https://www.sherborne.org/calendar
Carol Services
Parents of new boys are particularly encouraged to attend the Advent Carol service.
Term ends with the Carol Service. There is pressure on the seating available and not all parents will be able to attend. Priority tickets will be made available to the parents of choristers and boys in the Upper Sixth.
Roman Catholic Services
Roman Catholic boys are encouraged to meet together as a group to walk to and attend Mass at the local Church on Sunday mornings. This relieves the boys of their commitment to attend the School Service in the Abbey on Sunday evenings. An email requiring a simple reply to the Headmaster and The Chaplain to indicate that you would like your son to take advantage of this opportunity will be sent to relevant families before the beginning of the Michaelmas Term.
Crossfire
There is a Christian forum group, known as Crossfire, which meets every Thursday evening. Crossfire is open to all regardless of belief.
Confirmation
Boys are prepared for Confirmation when they feel ready to embark upon this important journey. Confirmation is not pushed, but gently encouraged for those in the Fourth Form and above. Currently, classes span a ten week course with a Confirmation Retreat prior to the day of Confirmation taking place locally.
Weekend activities
There is a full programme of activities arranged for each weekend of the term. Details are published in the Parent Portal calendar and the weekly diary on the School website. Boys are kept informed of these activities via the intranet or through their House.
Boys are expected to organise their own time and show initiative in trying new activities. Although help and direction are given, boys generally have more flexibility than in their previous schools.
In addition, it is important that, after a hectic week, boys are given time to relax.
Parents’ absence from home
If you are going to be away overnight or longer, please send an address and/or telephone number, preferably in writing (email) to the HsM. If you are going overseas for an extended period, they also need the contact details of a person in this country who will act in your place.
All boys who live outside the United Kingdom must have a guardian in this country to stay with during holidays and extended Exeats when the School is not open. There is more information about guardians later in the booklet.
Communication
with your son Telephones
Junior boys are expected to hand in mobile ‘phones for the majority of the day during the working week in line with the Mobile Device Policy which can be found at the following link under the 'Pastoral' heading. https://www.sherborne.org/aboutsherborne/policies-and-inspectionreports. If a genuine emergency arises, when your son does not have access to his mobile ‘phone, do contact the House and staff will ensure that your son returns your call.
Email
Email is a good way to communicate with your son. All boys are provided with access to the School computer network and they have their own personal email addresses.
Day boys
Weekly routine
Day boys are a valuable part of our School and House communities. They are encouraged to participate in School and House activities as fully as boarders. However, we appreciate that at times this may cause transport problems. If this does occur, please get in touch with your son’s HsM.
Day boys are expected to arrive by 8.00am, sign in at House and register in their normal timetabled lessons and to remain at School during the day. If there is a need to return home, for whatever reason, your son must request permission from his HsM. He should be present for roll-calls specific to his House, at which important announcements are made. Having finished all School commitments he should then sign out of the Boarding House so that his HsM knows that he has left. By special arrangement on Saturdays, unless he is playing for a School team, he is free to go home after morning school and the afternoon activities programme have finished. We hope, too, he will support his friends playing in matches.
On Sundays, music and drama rehearsals often take place together with many other activities, in which he might wish to be involved. Please see the section about “Chapel” on pages 10 and 11 for details of compulsory and voluntary services on both weekdays and Sundays.
Other general points for day boys
• If your son is unable to attend School for whatever reason, please inform his HsM by telephone before 8.00am.
• At weekends, if your son visits the town, he must conform to School rules and dress regulations. However, you, as parents, are still responsible for him (this may seem anomalous, but day boys must be seen to be bound by the same expectations as boarders).
• Please be aware of the School rules concerning the driving of cars.
• If your son invites a friend home, he must seek his HsM’s permission. Parental responsibility must be assumed by the host family during such stays.
• If he is given permission to cycle to School, please ensure the roadworthiness of his bicycle and helmet.
Please refer to the Day Boys Policy for more details: https://www.sherborne.org/aboutsherborne/policies-and-inspectionreports.
Clothes and Possessions
School Shop
The School outfitter is the School Shop, situated next to The Hub café.
Normal opening times Monday – Friday 9.00am-5.00pm. Closed at weekends.
If you have any queries please contact the School Shop by telephone: 01935 810506, or email: schoolshop@sherborne.org
The majority of clothing items are available from the School Shop which also offers a wide variety of stationery, sports equipment and some toiletries (please note boys should not bring aerosol deodorant, deodorant should be roll-on).
Online Shop
A full list of general items and a clothing list can also be found at: https://sherborneschoolshop.com/ pages/sherborne-school
General items (all boys)
All items marked * must be obtained from the School Shop.
• 1 plain navy blue or black coat with no or minimal logos or branding which entirely covers the suit jacket underneath (sports-related coats are not to be worn with uniform)
• 1 pair of Wellington boots or walking boots (optional)
• 12 pairs of pants or boxer shorts (vests are optional)
• 3 pairs of pyjamas (or appropriate night wear)
• 1 dressing gown
• 1 pair of soft-sole bedroom slippers
• 5 large towels
• 1 hairbrush or comb
• 1 washbag (nailbrush, toothbrush and flannel, all named)
• 3 coat hangers, wooden with bar, named
• 1 case or bag for carrying books (School backpacks can be purchased from the School Shop)
• 1 large suitcase or trunk (trunks can be ordered from the School Shop)
• 1 tuck box (optional – tucks can be ordered from the School Shop)
• 1 duvet (named)
• 1 or 2 pillows (named)
• 2 duvet covers (named on the outside, left hand side)
• Shoe cleaning kit
• Alarm clock (battery operated only)
• Small padlock
• 2 sock bags and 1 laundry bag (automatically ordered by the School Shop).
Clothing list for Third Form to Fifth Form
The clothes regulations are mandatory. All items marked* must be obtained from the School Shop.
Formal and informal school uniform
• 1 dark grey suit, single-breasted
• 1 school tie *
• 2 white shirts
• 4 navy blue shirts, long-sleeved *
• 2 navy blue round neck pullovers *
• 2 pairs of formal dark grey trousers *
• 8 pairs of dark plain socks
• 1 pair of plain black leather shoesthese must be capable of being polished to a shine. Very thick soles are not allowed, nor are boots.
For those in School cricket teams only:
• 2 white cricket shirts with school logo *
• 1 pair of white cricket shoes
• 1 or 2 pairs of white trousers, school logo *
• 1 cricket sweater, school logo *
• 1 cricket cap
• 1 white baselayer top (optional)
Sports kit
• 2 reversible jerseys *
• 1 House colours jersey *
• 2 pairs of blue rugby shorts *
• 1 pair of navy leisure shorts *
• 2 training t-shirts *
• 1 white polo shirt *
• 1 pair of navy track pants *
• 1 navy full zip training jacket *
• 3 pairs of School rugby socks *
• 1 navy mid layer * (optional)
• 3 pairs of white sport socks
• 1 pair of black baselayer shorts
• 1 black baselayer top
• 1 pair of white gym-shoes (for indoor use only)
• 1 pair of training shoes (for outdoor use)
• 1 pair of swimming trunks (black / navy only)
• 1 pair of swim goggles
• 1 pair of rugby / football boots (studs approved by the RFU)
• 1 sport kit bag
• 1 mouthguard (we recommend professional Opro fitting in September, but self mould mouthguards are available from the School Shop).
Clothing list for Sixth Form
The clothes regulations are mandatory. All items marked * must be obtained from the School Shop.
Formal and informal school uniform
Either
• 2 plain dark suits, single-breasted or
• or 1 suit (as above) and a dark blue blazer or sober tweed jacket with dark trousers
• 1 School tie*
• 3 non-school ties
• 4 shirts with firm collars (at least 2 must be white)
• 8 pairs of dark plain socks
Either
• 2 pairs of plain black leather shoes or
• 1 pair plain black leather shoes and 1 pair brown leather or brown suede shoes
• 1 Black Tie / Dinner Jacket
Sports kit
• 1 pair of navy track-pants*
• 1 pair of navy leisure shorts*
• 1 navy full zip training jacket *
• 1 training t-shirt *
• 3 pairs of School rugby socks*
• 1 House colours jersey*
• 1 navy mid layer (optional)
Other Sports kit for the Sixth Form will depend upon the Games options taken.
Summer Kit Outs
The appointment booking system is now open and appointments will be available from May to August and will conclude on 22 August 2025. We will not be able to accept any appointments past that date and the School Shop will be closed to prepare for the start of the new term.
Appointments fill up fast, so please book early to avoid disappointment. The School Shop will operate by appointment only over the Summer Holidays.
We offer 3 options:
1. Uniform Fitting Appointment
Appointment slots are available Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 5.00pm and are strictly 1 hour and 15 minutes, so please arrive on time. We also kindly ask for only one person to accompany the pupil to the appointment. There is a café next door for family members to wait, if needed.
To arrange your appointment, select the ‘Appointment Booking’ option within the online shop: https://sherborneschoolshop.co m/products/order-pick-up-withfittingsession?variant=42125603143829
Please complete the booking using the pupil’s name and Boarding House (if applicable).
Uniform lists are included below: https://sherborneschoolshop.com/p ages/sherborne-school-uniform-list
All clothing will need to be named. Please see ‘Name Taping’ paragraph on the following page.
We are not able to accept bookings over the phone or email.
If you need to cancel your appointment, please email the School Shop, and book a new appointment if required
2. We can deliver items directly to the Boarding House
If you cannot attend the fitting appointment, please place your uniform order online. If the order is for a new starter, we will name tape the items in your order (details in 'Name Taping' section following page) and deliver directly to the Boarding House. We will assist the Matron and the pupil at the start of term should any exchanges be required.
3. If you live in the UK, we can send your items to you
Simply place your order online and select for the items to be posted to you. Please ensure that you place your order early if you would like items shipped to you to avoid items arriving after the start of term.
If you just need a top up
If you just need a top up or few extra pieces, please either book an appointment to come for a fitting or place an order online: https://sherborneschoolshop.com/ pages/sherborne-school and we can post it to you (UK only).
Name Taping
All clothing must be named.
New starters will be automatically billed £12.95 for 144 name tapes. As standard, we will label all purchased items for new starters at a cost of £1 per item (we use mix of heat press and sewn on name tapes). If you wish to name tape the items yourself, then please let us know at your uniform appointment or via email.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer our name taping service to current students. It is only available for new starters and we can only name tape items purchased from the School Shop.
If you decide to label the items yourself, then please follow the convention shown below:
First Name Last Name (House Letter)
EG: John Smith (A)
A – School House
B – Abbey
C – The Green
D – Harper
E – Wallace
F – Abbeylands
G – Lyon
M – The Digby
Please note for Sherborne Boys, boys’ uniform in the Third, Fourth and Fifth Form is different to the Sixth Form, so please be sure to choose carefully. Any product that is marked with a (*) is a mandatory uniform item that needs to be purchased from the School Shop.
Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the School Shop, either via phone 01935 810 506 or email schoolshop@sherborne.org
Notes for all boys
Sports equipment
Boys can buy sports equipment during term with a signed chit from the Housemaster. These purchases will be charged to the fee bill.
Home clothes
Boys are allowed to wear home clothes for much of the weekend. However, please do not send your son with too many items, as space is at a premium. All items must be named
Bed linen
All boys must bring a duvet and two covers to School (all three items should be clearly marked - the covers on the outside, near the opening). Sheets and pillowcases are provided.
Books and equipment to support your son’s studies
From the beginning of term your son will need a scientific calculator. The Casio FX-85 are easily the most appropriate models and can be purchased from the School Shop, or from many other retailers. Your son’s calculator should be clearly named. Maths instruments (protractor and compass) are also very helpful to have.
The English Department provides incoming Third Form boys with a reading list during the summer. Copies of these books are stocked in the Library. Boys are encouraged, both by their House tutors and English teachers, to read these books during the term.
The lists may also be helpful in suggesting titles and authors to be read during the holidays when more time is available. The lists are not intended to be worked through systematically, and there are of course many good books and authors who do not appear on the lists. They do, however, represent a standard by which a boy’s choice of reading may be guided and encouraged. They are, we hope, one way in which a love of reading may be cultivated.
The following list contains those items that we feel boys will need. The School Shop sells these and a wide range of other stationery items. Parents may wish to equip their sons before the start of term, or the boys can purchase them once they have arrived.
• Pad of lined A4 paper
• Pens
• 30cm ruler
• Eraser
• Pencils
• Pencil sharpener
• Coloured pencils
• Glue
• Scissors
• Small hole punch (optional but recommended)
• Small stapler (optional but recommended)
• Maths instruments (protractor and compass)
Laundry
Matron is responsible for repairs and laundry during the term, but please ensure that each term all clothes brought back are clean, in good repair and clearly labelled.
The laundering of standard uniform items and bedding is included in the boarding fee but a one-off linen charge of £95 will be made on your son’s first fee bill. An additional charge may be made to reflect the cost of laundering or dry cleaning other items. In particular, a charge is likely to be made for laundering ‘designer’ clothes and any items where the fabric or the care instructions necessitate special treatment. Whilst all precautions are taken, the School cannot be held responsible for damage to delicate fabrics.
Appearance
Boys are expected to keep their uniform, sports kit and personal clothing in a neat and presentable condition and boys should also keep their shoes clean and free of mud –please provide your son with a shoe cleaning kit.
Out of School, boys are expected to be clean and tidy and appropriately dressed for the occasion. For lectures, concerts, away matches and other formal functions, boys should wear suits.
After morning school on Saturdays, and all day on Sundays, boys can wear home clothing when going into town.
Personal possessions
Security of property and nametapes
It is essential that boys are made aware of the necessity of looking after their property in their House and around the School.
All clothing and property should be clearly marked with your son’s name and House letter, by nametape or engraved, using the following format: J. A. Smith (x). Sew-on nametapes should be used as ironon ones are not reliable when clothes go through the laundry.
Nametapes must be on the inside of all clothes and games kit. Please ensure that there is an adequate supply of spare nametapes to give to Matron.
Where appropriate, it is important to record all serial/model numbers of valuable items.
Bicycles
Only those boys who participate in supervised recreational cycling (on or off road) as part of an organised activity can keep a bicycle at School. New boys are advised not to arrive with a bicycle and may only bring one once they are familiar with the requirements of cycling activities. No boy will be permitted to cycle without a suitable helmet.
Tuck box
All boys should have some form of lockable tuck box and padlock for their private or valuable possessions. Boys may bring back whatever food they like within reason, provided that it is not perishable.
Cutlery and crockery
Although the House does have some cutlery and crockery, boys may wish to bring their own. Everything should be clearly marked. The House can take no responsibility for breakages.
Trunks and overnight bags
During term time trunks and suitcases are stored, but boys are expected to take their trunks home during the holiday. For those boys who live overseas, it may be left at School during the holidays. The contents, in such cases, will be laundered where necessary and the trunk will be repacked, for which an additional charge will be made.
It is useful for all boys to have an overnight bag that they can use for Exeats and Half Terms.
Electrical appliances at School
The main causes of accidents involving portable electrical appliances are faulty flexible cables, extension leads, plugs, sockets and damaged or incorrectly repaired appliances. Injuries can occur when a person touches a part of the appliance which has become ‘live’ whilst in contact with an earthed conducting surface. The shock a person may receive can potentially be fatal.
All appliances must be in good working order. It is recommended that parents conduct a visual inspection before sending electrical
items into School to ensure that the appliance itself is not cracked or damaged in any way and the cable is free from cuts or abrasions. The plug must be undamaged and secure, and the pins not bent. Some items can be a possible cause of fire within an environment such as a Boarding House, whether electrically sound or not. All sockets in boys day rooms, dorms and study bedroom have integral USB charging points.
The following appliances can be brought into School:
• Mobile devices (phones, devices for learning, etc)
• Chargers
• Portable audio equipment
• Shaver
• Electric toothbrush with adaptor
• Contact lens steriliser
The following appliances must not be brought into School:
• Kettle
• Rice cooker
• Iron
• Fridge
• Mini fridge
• Toaster
• Heater
• Fan
• Electric blanket
• Microwave oven
• Non British Standard transformer
• Hair clippers
This list is not exhaustive. Please check with your son’s HsM should you be unsure about any electrical item you wish your son to bring into School.
British Standards
Parents are asked to ensure that the appliances meet British Standards and are therefore fitted with the correct plug and suitable for the UK’s electrical system. All extension leads and adaptors must also meet British Standards.
House staff carry out visual checks on electrical items brought into School and hand any suspect items to HsMs for confiscation until the end of term. The item can then be taken home and/or disposed of by the pupil/parent.
Money
Chit system
Some goods from shops in the town, as well as from the School Shop, can be obtained on a chit signed by the HsM or a House tutor. These might include a haircut, books, shoe repairs or items from the School Shop.
The bills for these are included on the fee bill at the end of term. Orders for ‘home clothes’ and other nonschool goods will not be signed except on written request from parents.
House sub
Each term an item called ‘House sub’ will appear on the fee bill. The subscription is presently £26.75. It is used for day-to-day items, such as newspapers, and when funds allow it is used for larger acquisitions.
Pocket money
Please ensure that your son has a bank account with either a cash or debit card associated with it. We recommend keeping a careful eye on your son’s spending over the first few months and intervening if the amount is unacceptable. As a rule of thumb, a £15 allowance per week in School should be sufficient for pocket money over the term. It is important that boys do not have large sums of cash on them and they should lock their wallets in their tuck boxes when they are not using them.
Academic Information
Third Form curriculum
All boys follow the same core curriculum in the Third Form but there is some variation depending on ability and previous experience. Choices concerning GCSE are made in the second half of the Lent Term when boys’ academic strengths and interests will be more evident and when they have had time to make decisions based on experience. Changes to choices can still be made after February but only subject to timetabling restrictions that will have been imposed at that point.
The following guiding principles reflect our aims within the junior curriculum:
• To provide boys with a wide range of academic options, thus allowing them choice over the areas they study.
• The quality of work and learning is more important than the quantity.
• The curriculum should recognise the diversity of boys and their needs. It must stretch the most able and effectively support the least able and in so doing we must not assume that ‘one size fits all’.
• Cross-curricular work should be encouraged wherever possible.
• Core life, interpersonal and academic skills, and independent learning, should be developed for all boys over the Third Form to allow them to learn better later.
• The Third Form should provide educational opportunities that go beyond the constraints of the public examination system.
Occasionally it is felt that it is not in the best interest of an individual boy to study the full range of subjects in the Third Form.
Core curriculum
In the Third Form English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and ‘Wellbeing and Worldviews’ form the ‘core curriculum’, forming a kernel of lessons that, together, take up approximately half of each pupil’s timetable. English lessons follow a mixed language and literature syllabus, with a heavy focus on reading and the development of essential literacy skills. In Mathematics and the Sciences the focus is also skills-based, though boys are taught in sets based on ability with the intention being that, by the end of the year, boys in the top Science sets will follow an accelerated curriculum culminating in Triple Science GCSE. In the Third Form all boys complete the same course, so, whilst there will likely be some movement between sets during the course of their first year at Sherborne, it makes no difference which set your son is in for any subject as all Third Formers study the same material for the duration of their first year.
Wellbeing and Worldviews
This is a new, bespoke course for Third Formers that engages with key relationship, citizenship, financial, and careers education. The ‘Worldviews’ element covers a variety of religious and non-religious viewpoints which develop thought about important matters such as equality, inclusion and identity. Real world ethical considerations are covered exposing pupils to a myriad of different perspectives. Together, the World and Wellbeing courses develop pupils’ spiritual, cultural and moral knowledge and understanding, whilst encouraging respect for other people, particularly those with protected characteristics.
Options
Choice is an important part of the curriculum at Sherborne: boys thrive when they study the subjects they enjoy and they tend to achieve stronger results. For these reasons we give our pupils free choice over the subjects they take outside of the core. We ask pupils to pick five options from a programme of twelve subjects. Whilst we encourage boys to pick a Modern Foreign Language, we do not require our pupils to do so.
The options available are: Art, Computer Science, Drama, Design & Technology, English as an Additional Language (EAL – for non-native speakers), German, Geography, History, Music, French, Latin & Spanish.
Please note that French is not available to beginners. Mandarin is available by arrangement (though charged as a paid extra). We also offer a triple language programme which allows gifted linguists to study all three European languages with the intention of taking French GCSE at the end of Fourth Form.
Whilst it does tend to work better if boys have studied a subject in the Third Form, not picking an option in the Third Form does not preclude a pupil from studying that subject for GCSE. Languages are an exception to this and, therefore, if a boy wishes to take a GCSE in, say, German, he must pick German as one of his Third Form options.
A separate booklet gives further detail on these options, guidance on making choices and instructions for how to complete your selection.
Stretch and Challenge
All lessons are differentiated and teachers are trained to stretch and challenge all the boys in their classes, whatever their level. That said, we also build in additional challenge by offering a variety of ‘pathways’ to GCSE: Science leads to double or triple qualifications; top mathematicians usually take the Further Maths GCSE alongside the traditional exams and, for strong linguists, we also offer a combined languages programme by which boys complete an accelerated MFL programme that culminates in an early French GCSE. For those who do not speak English as a first language, EAL is offered as one of the Modern Foreign Language options and we also differentiate our English teaching to offer ESL GCSE instead of English Language.
Academic support
It is entirely normal for boys to need additional help and support with their work. As such, we encourage them to ask questions and any teacher in any subject will be happy to offer a short catch-up session or a tutorial for those who need it. Many departments have elected to formalise these sessions, offering workshops and drop-in periods throughout the week. These sessions are not mandatory but they do offer a valuable opportunity for academic issues to be followed up or for tricky concepts to be revisited. Additionally, Microsoft Teams also enables boys to have access to other help and boys are warmly encouraged to speak to their teachers either face-to-face after lessons or using their ‘virtual’ classroom on Teams. We also offer a comprehensive range of support for those with SEN and it is
common for boys to choose to take three academic options (instead of four) to free up space in their timetable for Learning Support lessons.
High Academic Performers (HAP) programme
As well as a rigorous and stretching curriculum, we also offer a busy, stimulating enrichment programme for boys who like an academic challenge outside of lessons. The programme is open to all (though mandatory for academic award scholars) and is run in conjunction with Sherborne Girls. Boys and girls are invited to attend a range of stimulating clubs and activities that set out to get them thinking and working together. Rostrum, for example, requires boys and girls to explore global issues from different geopolitical perspectives; Turing Juniors gives an opportunity for pupils to present on topics of interest and then explore those areas with enthusiastic debate. DT, Art, Music and Drama each have full enrichment programmes for subject scholars as well.
Devices to support learning
We aim to equip boys with the skills, training and experience they need to become digitally literate. We request that all boys attending the School join the School device scheme. When your son arrives at school, he will be provided a Windows, Pen-Enabled device which are paid for termly. For further information please: https://www.sherborne.org/userfiles/sb smvc/images/icons/Device%20informat ion%20for%20new%20boys2%20%20May%202025.pdf
Department
Art
Biology
Chemistry
Latin
Computer Science
Drama
DT
English
Geography
History
Learning Support
Mathematics
Modern Languages
Music
Physics
Wellbeing
Theology
Further information
Name
Mr Matt Bone
Dr Jon-Paul Manning
Mr William Buckley
Mr Stephen Heath
Dr David Wild
Mr Alastair Kirby
Mr Peter Chillingworth
Miss Harriet Cant
Mr Richard Fuller
Miss Charlotte Allen
Ms Sarah Ollis
Mr Paul Walter
Mr Philip Morrow
Mr Robert Costin
Dr Richard Brown
Mrs Nikki Bowerman
Mr James Crawford
For further details, please see the Curriculum Options Guidance for New Boys booklet. Please also feel free to contact Heads of Departments if you would like further information on specific subjects.
Hall
Email
Matt.Bone
JonPaul.Manning
William.Buckley
Stephen.Heath
David.Wild
Alastair.Kirby
Peter.Chillingworth
Harriet.Cant
Richard.Fuller
Charlotte.Allen
Sarah.Ollis
Paul.Walter
Philip.Morrow
Robert.Costin
Richard.Brown
Nikola.Bowerman
James.Crawford
Hall is the Sherborne term for prep. All boys in the Third Form will have supervised Hall in their Boarding House each evening.
• 5.00pm - 6.00pm Hall / Activities
• 6.00pm - 7.00pm Supper
• 7.00pm - 8.45pm Hall
• 8.45pm - 9.45pm Hall / Activities
Hall is set according to a strict timetable which helps boys to plan their time and serves to spread their work into manageable portions. Boys are given clear guidance from each department regarding expectations for Hall presentation. Unsatisfactory Hall or failure to deliver Hall on time will result in an Academic Issue.
Learning Support
Learning Support is additional tuition offered during the School day, at an additional cost, and is usually provided for pupils who experience a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia. Learning Support lessons are taught as individual lessons. The Learning Support Department sits within the heart of the School community and due to the diverse skills of the department, can offer specialist support in literacy, numeracy, science, study and revision skills and examination technique.
All boys are given a brief screening test in their first week with us. Liaison with the previous school’s Head of Learning Support ensures any identified needs are communicated to Sherborne in order to develop an appropriate support package. In partnership with parents, the Head of Learning Support will discuss the level of support necessary for their son, which will range from one, to a maximum of two lessons per week. A reduced timetable will also be considered. Boys are expected to be well-organised and work independently, both in class and during Hall and are expected to attend Learning Support lessons regularly. As space is limited, Learning Support is strictly offered to those who need it most, according to School policy.
Once in School each pupil is assigned a Learning Support teacher. Learning Support teachers then liaise with subject teachers to develop appropriate targets for the individual pupil. Learning Support teachers monitor progress and maintain contact with classroom teachers. Subject teachers are made fully aware of any specific learning difficulties of their pupils. Any previous and new specialist assessment is summarised and recommendations are shared with teaching staff. Teaching staff are made fully aware of the support needs and how best to support individual boys. The Head of Learning Support meets regularly with LS staff and Heads of Departments to monitor pupil progress and provide specific advice where progress may have stalled.
Exam concessions
The Joint Council of Qualifications (JCQ) outlines specific examination concessions which are updated on the first day of September each year. Sherborne makes applications to the JCQ for examination concessions based upon individual need, the pupil’s normal way of working and in line with current JCQ regulations. Assessment for examination concessions takes place in the Fourth Form, and again on entry to the Sixth
Form, in order for assessment information to be up-to-date at the time of application. Assessment for examination concessions is offered through the School by a specialist teacher and assessor at Sherborne, or by an Independent Educational Psychologist who is recommended by the School. Please note that a recommendation from an Independent EP does not automatically lead to an application for exam concessions, as the assessment information must meet the current strict JCQ criteria.
Should you have any further queries, please contact the Head of Learning Support.
English as an Additional Language
Individual or small group tutorials are available to boys whose mother tongue is not English. Boys receive language support for their other subjects as well as preparation for IGCSE in ESL and IELTS.
In the Third Form, EAL lessons are included as an option choice; thereafter they are included through English. In the Sixth Form, EAL lessons are provided in addition to the curriculum and are charged as an additional extra on the fee bill.
Library
The Library is situated in the centre of the School and offers a wide range of resources, facilities and activities in a warm and welcoming environment. There is space for quiet study and room to relax while reading a book or a magazine; and helpful, friendly staff are on hand to support and assist boys in their studies and wider School experience.
The Library works hard to encourage wider reading through events such as the Inter-House Literary Quiz and the Sherborne School Reading Challenge. There are also Library produced reading lists to support both the Reading Challenge participants and Sixth Form applying to university.
The Library has an extensive range of resources including over 25,000 books; on-line databases; journals and magazines; graphic novels and comic books; audio books; DVDs and music CDs. The Library is happy to order resources on recommendation from staff and boys, and can also order personal copies of items for boys, for example exam revision guides.
Frequency of Reports
Full reports are written for each boy twice a year. The individual subject reports will comment on academic progress, indicate if there are areas of concern and make suggestions for improvement. Tutor and HsM reports will give a wider picture on a range of academic and pastoral matters. All reports contain:
• Snapshots in each subject.
• Written subject reports for each taught area of the curriculum. These contain information about the course your son is following and any milestones reached, and a written comment from the subject teacher about your son’s individual progress. Written reports also contain reference to the progress your son is making towards achieving his target grade.
• Tutor comment, which contextualises the subject reports and provides a personal overview.
• HsM comment, providing a pastoral commentary on how things are going in the House.
Snapshots
These are usually published midterm and contain:
• Effort grades. Eight effort grades are published per subject. Each pertains to a separate aspect of performance (contribution & behaviour; approach to Hall; punctuality; attitude to learning; preparation for tests; organisation; skills & independence; overall effort). Effort grades are criteriareferenced – i.e. they are awarded with reference to clear grade descriptors. These descriptors are detailed below. Overall effort is colour-coordinated according to a traffic light system, so areas of particularly high effort are easy to see. Please note that the overall grade is NOT AN AVERAGE.
• Target grade. Defined as the “realistic and aspirational grade we believe your son is capable of achieving.” These are awarded from the start of the Fourth Form onwards.
• Current Working Grade. Defined as the “grade your son is likely to achieve based on the work he has done and our experience of what boys in previous years have gone on to achieve from this position.”
• Tutor comment.
How are target grades set?
This does vary slightly from subject to subject, but in general targets evolve out of four processes:
• Reference to previous exam performance and to national baseline data.
• Discussion with the boys themselves.
• Experience and professional judgement.
• Baseline data is produced by the CEM Centre at Durham University and is widely used in maintained and independent schools. Boys sit a ‘MidYIS test’ at the beginning of the Third Form, which generates a ‘MidYIS profile’ for your son. The CEM Centre compares your son’s profile with a historical record and makes predictions for your son based on the performance of boys in that record who had a similar MidYIS profile to your son.
How do grades work?
Attainment is represented through the difference (if any) between the Current Working Grade and the target grade. If your son is ‘on track’ to achieve his target, we indicate this by giving a Current Working Grade that is the same as his target grade. If the Current Working Grade is less than the target grade this indicates that something needs to change, or be developed further. Information and guidance on how to make up the gap will be provided in your son’s report. In many cases your son’s Current Working Grade and target will be the same; by definition in this situation your son is on track to achieve his target grade, which is the outcome we want to see! At no point should a Current Working Grade be higher than a target grade. In this situation a teacher will increase a (previously lower) target to reflect the improvement in performance.
When are reports and grades published?
We will provide you with formal feedback on your son’s performance roughly every six weeks. This will take the form of a set of snapshots midterm or a report at the end of the term. Most years also have two Parent-Teacher meetings (either faceto-face or online). The specific times and dates of Parent-Teacher meetings, grades and reports are listed in the School’s Calendar, which can be found on the Parent Portal, or on the School website.
Effort Grade Descriptors:
Effort grade Descriptor
1* The effort from this pupil is exceptional and unusual. Outstanding They consistently go well beyond what is asked for, both in their effort in class and for hall. Older pupils reaching this level will be taking responsibility for their own learning, perhaps reading around the subject and completing additional written work beyond that set. The pupil has a positive impact on the learning of others.
This grade is exceptional and, by definition, will apply to at most 10% of the year; quite possibly much less.
1
The effort from this pupil matches our best expectations. Very Good They have handed every hall assignment on time, with good effort on each. They prepare thoroughly for every test and all classwork. The behaviour and attitude of this pupil in class has been consistently excellent. They make helpful contributions in class. There have been no instances of effort below your expectation.
2
The effort from this pupil has been generally good. They Generally may have handed in one late hall. They may have let their Good behaviour or attitude slip occasionally in class. They may not have tried their best at all of their work. They make useful contributions in class, but may also have been too passive at times. A pupil should not be awarded this grade if they have fallen down on more than one of these elements.
3
The pupil’s effort needs improvement in one or more area. Improvement They have not met the standard of effort required for a ‘2’ Required grade. There are no specific criteria for this grade other than the level of effort does not meet the criteria for a ‘2’ and is, therefore, a concern. Multiple ‘3’ grades will often be a trigger for an academic Action Plan to be implemented.
Parent/Staff Meetings
All year groups have at least one formal Parent Teacher (PT) each year. PT meetings take place in the early evening using our on-line booking system, so you do not have to come into school (or even be in this country) to attend. Details and log-in instructions for PT meetings are sent out in advance, though dates are published on the Parent Portal and the School’s website well in advance of the start of each academic year.
In addition to PT meetings, each year group has House lunch. Unlike PT meetings, these take place face-toface and offer a valuable opportunity for you to meet / catch up with your son’s tutor and Housemaster and to spend some time with the parents of boys in your son’s House. The first House lunch for Third Form happens just before Exeat in your son’s first term in school.
Co-Curricular Activities
A Sherborne Education seeks to develop a boy’s character and infuse them with virtues and goes way beyond the classroom and enables our boys to participate in a plethora of experiences which will create memories that last a lifetime. The Co-Curricular Programme offers something for everyone whatever their skills, aspirations or interests. It aims to give boys a chance to not only develop, improve and excel, but also an opportunity to try something new regardless of their ability.
Clubs and Activities
As part of the offer at the School there are numerous clubs and activities for the boys to be a part of. We encourage them to not only develop their passions but also to have the confidence to try new things and not worry about the unknown or getting it wrong. From coding and robotics, to Academic Societies, Modern United Nations, Debating and Radio Sherborne, all boys are encouraged to take on additional commitments. The Third Form also participate in the weekly carousel that involves activities that are designed to promote healthy living, mindfulness and life skills.
Sport
Sport plays an integral part in the life at Sherborne. The School offers a wide range of sports in each of the three terms. During Games sessions in the Michaelmas Term, your son will have the opportunity to take part in Rugby (whether this be full contact, adapted or touch) and represent the School in one of the five teams in this age group. In the Lent Term, the majority choose between Hockey or Football, and in the Summer term between Cricket, Tennis and Athletics. The School is, however, rightly proud of the huge range of other sporting options open to the boys. Over their five years with us they will be able to take part in any number of sports. The boys will always be guided to the
most appropriate sport through discussions between him, his HsM, Tutor, the Director of Sport and Heads of Sports Coaching and it is feasible for your son to take part in more than one sport during a term.
As your son progresses through the School, other sports which may be offered include: sailing, squash, cross country, fives, badminton, basketball, fencing, swimming, water polo, golf, fly fishing, yoga, riding, polo, cycling, climbing and range and clay shooting.
Music
Music is a Sherborne tradition. An enormous amount of exciting musicmaking takes place at Sherborne, from large-scale ensembles like the Choir (117 singers) and Wind Band (84 players) through Jazz, rock and pop to grade exams and diplomas and there really is something for everybody. There are also over 300 instrumental lessons delivered each week. We actively encourage boys to be involved with Music at Sherborne in some way or another. At the very least, your son will contribute to the magnificent whole school singing in the Abbey twice a week – something of which we are very proud.
The purpose-built Music School has state-of-the-art facilities within a suite of modern teaching and practice rooms, a recording studio, and soundproofed studios for the noisier bands. In addition, there is a full
complement of grand and upright pianos, a harpsichord and two organs in the Chapel; keen organists also enjoy access to the Abbey organ.
Instrumental lessons
Boys who already play an instrument and wish to continue developing their skills through further music lessons are encouraged to do so. Please ensure you have completed the Music Lessons section on the online booking form. Please discourage giving up an instrument after Year 8 as participation is key at Sherborne.
There are numerous Choral groups on offer at Sherborne, including the Chamber Choir, Close Harmony Group, Barbershop, School Choir and Choral Society. Instrumental groups include the Wind Band, Swing Band, Jazz Band, Brass Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Sinfonia, Chamber Music, RocSoc, Dub Club and DJ’s.
Theory
Free theory lessons are offered in classes taught in activity time on Mondays and Fridays, mainly for Grade 5 theory, which is a national requirement for proceeding to Grade 6 instrumental examinations.
Aural training
Free tuition is available, especially for candidates preparing for Grades 6 to 8 Associated Board examinations.
Art and D&T
These departments work closely together, so that the boys have access to excellent and wellmaintained facilities and the chance to work with a range of media. Students have access to the Art Department’s excellent facilities with the opportunity to work with a diverse and exciting range of media. The Art studios are open daily, including evenings and weekends which allow students to develop their work in their free time. Students also benefit from a varied extracurricular program of visiting artists and trips to galleries. Student’s work is celebrated and displayed throughout the School, but culminates with the Commem end of year exhibition displaying exciting and wide-ranging work from the boys within this vibrant department.
Drama
Think of some of the high profile Old Shirburnians and you’ll notice that a number of actors feature. We are proud to number Sir Richard Eyre, Jeremy Irons and Hugh Bonneville among our alumni – helping inspire every boy to develop his theatrical talents.
We encourage involvement in Drama throughout the School, and many boys love the chance to tread the boards or work backstage. As well as School-wide productions, when we work with Sherborne Girls. Each
House puts on a play every other year. These vary in size, style and genre but all boys in House get the chance to participate, whether on stage or as part of the technical crew.
For those who desire it, we provide tuition for LAMDA Speech and Drama Awards. We also work regularly with professional directors, actors and producers, creating a realworld environment in which boys refine their craft.
Boys have also participated in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in recent years, both with School productions and their own shows, receiving fantastic plaudits in what is a very tough arena for future theatre makers.
Drama is a source of much pride at Sherborne, and boys’ achievements in this sphere are celebrated throughout the School community.
Leadership and Outdoor Education
Boys at Sherborne are encouraged to exercise leadership in every sphere of their lives. However, some features of School life play an especially important role in helping them develop appropriate skills and acquire a lifelong passion for adventure, benefiting mental and physical wellbeing.
CCF (Fourth Form onwards)
Sherborne CCF consists of cadets from both Sherborne School and Sherborne Girls. The CCF is a chance for pupils to develop leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Termly field trips, summer camps, and overseas expeditions are enjoyed by the cadets. For many, involvement in CCF is a highlight of their time at School; they form lifelong friendships and learn valuable lessons about perseverance, respect, and determination. That it also provides an opportunity to get into the great outdoors and let off steam, is a further draw for many of our pupils.
Our CCF consists of Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army sections. They are led by impressive Sixth Formers and supported by committed staff, many of whom have previous military experience. Pupils may join CCF in Fourth Form where they follow a syllabus. Prior to Remembrance Day, our Fourth Form cadets sit beret tests to ensure they have earned the right to wear their beret and progress onto the next phase of training. They cover topics such as navigation, field craft, drill, weapons training, first aid, military history, seamanship, appearance and bearing, and leadership. Our Fifth Form cadets do a bespoke course which develops their leadership skills and teaches them instructional techniques to allow them to deliver the training when they get to the Sixth Form. Cadets in the Sixth Form
have a CCF social area and have an annual black-tie dinner. Our CCF has its own stores, classrooms, shooting range, and uses many nearby facilities for training.
Field trips provide memorable experiences including sleeping in woods, cooking rations, putting fieldcraft skills into practice, and sailing aboard Royal Navy vessels. Recent Field Trips include training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, the Britannia Royal Naval College, the Commando Training Centre, HMS Collingwood, and RNAS Yeovilton. Every summer we offer a UK-based summer camp at a military base and an adventure training camp overseas. In recent years the CCF trips have included glacier-walking in Norway and mountain biking in Transylvania. We also enter teams into national competitions including: Field Gun (Royal Navy); Pringle Trophy at the Commando Training Centre (Royal Marines), and the Rifles Cadet Cup at Aldershot (Army).
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
We offer all three Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Boys can enter the programme at any point, but it is especially popular at Bronze and Gold levels. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award involves participants committing to four activities: a Physical challenge, a Skills based programme, a community or
charitable Voluntary activity and an Expedition. The Gold Award has an additional section: a Residential experience. The boys can use activities they are already doing outside the main school curriculum or use this as an opportunity to try something new. It has been great to see such a wide range of activities being undertaken both in school and out from horse riding to scuba diving; from helping with the library to supporting children in local primary schools; we have also had boys getting their hands dirty helping to support the National Trust and Forest Schools.
At the end of the Training and Practice, boys undertake a
Qualifying Expedition, where they are required to fend for themselves within their team. It’s an experience like no other with happy memories that linger for a lifetime!
One of the main principles of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is that it is pupil-led and non-competitive. Some boys like to move through the sections quickly, whilst others prefer to spend a little more time considering their choices. All levels must be completed before the participant’s 25th birthday and it is a pleasure to hear from, and support, past Shirburnians who are keen to complete their award and to whom the value of the award still appeals.
Adventurous activities
We provide boys with ample opportunity to get into the fresh air and test their intellectual and physical stamina though activities such as rock climbing, canoeing, and kayaking. Amongst the many extracurricular opportunities provided at Sherborne Boys, the Ten Tors event stands out for its physical and mentally demanding nature. An intensive training programme equips the boys to develop advanced navigation skills whilst building resilience, leadership, teamwork and friendships.
Trips
Trips play an important role in the culture at Sherborne. We encourage
teachers to identify opportunities for boys to get out of the classroom and into the world. We make sure clubs and societies have plenty of chances to carry out visits and tours. We timetable curriculum-related trips into the plan for the year, so boys don’t miss out on other elements of School life by attending.
I would urge both boys and parents to look at the CoCurricular pages of our website and in particular our outcomes pages. We are enormously proud of the achievements of the boys and the huge amount they get from their commitment to the Co-curricular programme.
Medical Matters
Overview
It is important to us that we support your son’s medical needs effectively. House staff, and in particular Matrons, have a key role in providing much of the care which you would give at home. In addition we provide a 24-hour Health Centre with qualified nurses as well as a Doctor’s Surgery each morning from Monday to Saturday.
Registration with School Doctors as GP
All boarders must be registered as National Health Service patients with the School Doctors and we strongly encourage day boys to do so too, provided they live within 10 miles of the School.
Without such a registration, the Health Centre is only able to provide Emergency First Aid and nursing advice; for all other matters your son would need to visit your local GP. If your son is not registered with our School Doctors, we cannot prescribe him medication or give vaccines and our Health Centre staff will not have access to his medical records. Should your son need treatment during the School holidays, he can see your local doctor as a temporary patient or alternatively visit Yetminster Health Centre (DT9 6LG).
To register with the School Doctors, please complete the Medical Form and GMS1 Registration Form.
Health Centre
Health Centre, 26 Acreman Street Sherborne DT9 3NX healthcentrestaff@sherborne.org tel: 01935 810539
The Health Centre provides a high quality medical service for all boys during term. Registered nursing staff provide 24-hour cover and are available to help with any medical enquiries that parents may have.
The Health Centre will liaise with parents as appropriate when boys are admitted to the Health Centre and will be given regular updates. Parents may telephone at any time to speak to the Health Centre staff or their sons.
The School Doctor holds surgeries each morning Monday to Saturday.
Medical Information
A Medical Form must be completed for all pupils. Please provide full details when completing the form. All information you give on the forms will be confidential, available only to Health Centre staff, HsM, Matron and those who need the information to care for your son, for example Senior Staff or those running trips away from School.
In order to ensure the correct level of care and safety of our boys, we need to share appropriate medical information
with Sherborne Girls to promote continuity of care, especially on shared school trips where members of staff from both schools will be present. As such, you will be asked to consent for information to be shared with Sherborne Girls on these medical forms.
If there is any particularly sensitive or confidential information which you wish to share only with the Doctors and Health Centre staff, please write a separate letter to the Health Centre. Once your son has arrived at Sherborne, please email any changes in your son’s condition or medications to the Health Centre.
Medicines and Medical Equipment
No boy in the Third, Fourth and Fifth Forms may have in his possession any medical equipment or pharmaceutical drugs (except prescribed inhalers, prescribed adrenaline auto-injector or prescribed insulin injections); such items must be handed to Matron on arrival. Please make this quite clear to your son before he comes to School. The School encourages some Sixth Form pupils to self-administer for prescribed medication only, however this is only for boys who have been assessed by a school nurse. As such Sixth Form pupils should also pass any medication to Matron on arrival.
Stock medications held in House that Matron is permitted to administer to
boys within agreed guidelines are limited to Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Cetirizine, Anthisan cream, Simple Linctus, Throat Lozenges (Strepsils), Olbas Oil, Gaviscon, Stugeron, Loperamide, Hedrin, Deep Heat and Arnica. Any additional over the counter medication your child requires will need to be given to Matron in the original packaging and labelled with the boy’s name. A consent form for this specific medication will need to be signed by a parent; these will be held by Matron. If a new medication has been commenced by a private consultant, then a letter from the consultant needs to be copied to the Health Centre so that we are able to provide ongoing care. This particularly applies to ADHD medications such as Concerta.
Any prescribed medication that you supply to School must be dispensed and labelled by a pharmacy on every individual bottle or box. Staff are unable to administer drugs that do not have a pharmacy label written in English.
Dental Care
Matron looks after minor ailments and will oversee emergency visits to a local dentist or optician. Accidental and emergency dental insurance cover is provided via the School’s insurer, and the cost is covered by the School.
Parents need to be aware that routine dental treatment cannot be arranged in Sherborne. It is recommended, therefore, that all boys’ routine dental work be arranged with a dental practice local to their home to take place during the School holidays.
Mouth Guards
As you might be aware, the governing bodies of rugby, hockey and polo all strongly recommend the wearing of custom-fitted mouth guards at all levels. The School’s policy is to adhere to the governing bodies’ guidance. Therefore, we have asked OPRO, the dental organisation that specialises in mouth guards, to visit the School and to give every boy the opportunity to have a custom-fitted mouth guard at a reasonable cost.
OPRO visits a substantial number of schools, providing the following services:
• A qualified dentist to take the impression.
• A named mouth guard.
• A comprehensive aftercare service.
In order to take advantage of this service, please choose the mouth guard required and place your order via the internet or by post. In all cases, please deal directly with OPRO and not the School. Further details on OPRO will be sent out during the summer.
Health Insurance
General Health insurance for your son may be purchased through the AXA PPP Health Scheme. Whilst the Scheme provides access to certain physiotherapy treatments (from the Scheme’s recognised supplier lists), the School also works with Abbey View Physiotherapy to ensure all aspects of provision are made available to our boys.
Vaccinations and Chronic Disease
Annual Review
Consents for Adolescent boosters will be offered to all eligible pupils during Third Form. This process is managed by the NHS School Age Immunisation Service.
Travel vaccinations are available on request for pupils registered at Yetminster Health Centre. Please ensure notifications of family holidays are sent to healthcentrestaff@sherborne.org as early as possible, as some vaccination courses can take up to six months to
complete effectively. We will then respond to you by email to coordinate the required vaccinations. If this has not been received within a week please telephone 01935 810539.
Boys with Asthma will receive an annual Asthma review by the Health Centre Registered Nurses. All Matrons and members of the teaching staff are instructed in the use of the Adrenaline auto-injector.
Counsellors
The School employs Counsellors. Information on how to contact the School Counsellors is available on notice boards in the Boarding Houses and in the Health Centre. Pupils are able to confidentially self-refer to the Counsellors by emailing counsellor@sherborne.org
Physiotherapy
Physiotheraphy is available through a private practice that works closely with the School and visits the site for appointments. Unless your son is covered for physiotherapy by a private health insurance scheme, a charge will be made for treatment. If your son is covered by a private health insurance scheme you should check to see if it includes physiotherapy.
If you are not insured and do not wish to pay for treatment privately, your
son may still be able to receive physiotherapy treatment under the NHS at the Yeatman Hospital in Sherborne. However, it may be some weeks before your son can start treatment.
Referrals
Should your son require an ongoing referral, for example to the paediatric team, the appointment letter will be posted from the hospital direct to your son at his Boarding House. The Health Centre and School staff do not receive a copy, it is therefore vital that your son present the letter to their Matron so they can make the travel arrangements for him to attend.
Cyber-criminal activity
Please be aware that, sadly, independent schools and their parents can be the target of cybercriminal activity with the aim of diverting fee payments to fraudulent bank accounts. This is typically done through scam emails involving school fees and their payment, offering significant discounts if paid by a certain date, which look convincing at first glance but provide different bank details from our own and are not sent from a correct email address.
Sherborne would never offer fee remission in this way and we will never change the School’s bank details without formal notice in at least two separate ways. Should you receive any form of communication purporting to be from us and making a time-limited payment request or advising you of such a change, please telephone the School on the usual number (not that contained in any email or letter) and check with our admissions or finance teams before making any payments. In short, please be vigilant and always check - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Financial Matters
Fees – payment
School fees and extras are due on or before the first day of term. You will receive a fee bill by email well in advance of the due date; for the Michaelmas Term the bill will be emailed to you during July.
You can pay the fees in any of the following ways:
• By using online banking or your banking app to transfer the fees to the School’s bank account, full details of which will be shown on the fee bill. It is extremely important that you show your account number (shown at the top of the fee bill next to the boy’s name) in the payment reference field for the transaction. Without this it will be difficult for the School to identify the source of the payment. The School’s bank account details are also available on the School’s Parent Portal.
• By asking your bank to transfer funds directly into the School’s account. Any bank charges raised during the payment of fees must be paid by you. Funds that are cleared into the School’s bank account must be in sterling (GBP) and sufficient to clear the full amount of the School’s bill. The School’s bank account details are also available on the School’s Parent Portal.
• Should you wish to pay the fees by Direct Debit it is most important that you complete the Direct Debit mandate with the New Boys’ forms and return it to parentsaccounts@sherborne.org by 30 June 2025, as the first payment by monthly instalment will be made on 1 August 2025. You must have a UK bank or building society in order to pay by Direct Debit.
• Overseas payments should be made using Flywire. This is a widely used and respected payment platform which is especially useful for making payments from overseas; it will ensure you pay the correct amount in sterling (GBP) but will convert amounts into your local currency, and provide the payment options specifically available to you in your own country. We will provide a link on the fee bill to enable you to use this platform, and it will also be available through our Parent Portal. Whilst predominantly for making payments from overseas, parents within the UK will also be able to use the service if making payment either by card or bank transfer.
• By posting a cheque and the remittance advice from the bottom of the bill to the Bursary. Full details of how to do this are shown on the fee bill.
Fees cannot be paid in cash –whether directly to the School, or paid in over the counter via a UK bank account.
Please note that interest will be charged in accordance with the Parent Contract on all fees and extras not settled by the first day of term. Should you have any queries about the payment of your son’s fee bill, please contact Mrs Tracey Robertson, Finance and Billing Administrator (01935 810505 or parentsaccounts@sherborne.org).
Fees – payment by Direct Debit
Direct Debit is a simple, inexpensive and convenient way of paying School fees. You can choose to pay the fees for each term in three monthly instalments, beginning on 1 August each year, and extras at the beginning of each term, or you have the option of paying the full fee bill, including extras, at the beginning of each term by a single Direct Debit.
The School invites you to sign a Direct Debit instruction to your Bank or Building Society authorising it to pay variable amounts from your account at our request. This means
that there will be no need to trouble you to sign a fresh authority whenever the amount changes, although you will continue to receive a bill each term including a detailed account of extras, in the normal way. You have the Direct Debit guarantee that:
• You will be told of instalments at least five working days before they are presented.
• In the unlikely event of a Direct Debit being presented in error you can obtain an immediate refund from your Bank or Building Society without penalty.
• You may cancel your instruction at any time by notifying your Bank or Building Society and telling the School
The fee instalments will be payable as follows:-
Michaelmas Term
1 August, September and October
Lent Term
1 December, January and February
Trinity Term
1 March, April and May
In order to pay the 2025/2026 fees by Direct Debit, please complete the Direct Debit Instructions and the Direct Debit Mandate. Please note that Direct Debits can only be paid from a UK-based account.
Fees – extras and other charges to fee bills
During your son’s time at Sherborne, a number of items may appear on your fee bill. Some of them such as Music, Drama, EAL tuition, Learning Support, House subscriptions, trunk charges and overnight boarding are detailed in the fees section of the School website. Examples of other extras are set out below.
Traders’ accounts
A number of traders in the town have an arrangement with the School whereby a boy may purchase certain items on the production of a chit signed by his HsM, Tutor or Matron (see earlier information in the Boarding House section). This is not an opportunity to spend freely, and each purchase is duly authorised. The School settles these accounts, which are then included on your son’s end of term bill.
Stationery
Basic stationery requirements can be purchased from the School Shop through a chit system and expenditure will be recovered on fee bills.
Other items
Other items of expenditure, including public examination fees, personal copies of books and personal transport, are detailed either on the main bill, or by supporting documentation sent with the fee bill. Should you have any queries, please contact the Finance and Billing Administrator.
Fees – sibling discounts
The School operates a sibling fee discount arrangement with Sherborne Girls, Sherborne Prep and Hanford Prep. A 10% fee discount applies to the third child at any of the four Schools and 15% to the fourth and subsequent children. The children do not have to be in the Schools at the same time. Please contact the Finance and Billing Administrator for more information about how the discount works and to find out whether you are eligible.
Childcare Vouchers
We accept childcare vouchers in part payment of boarding fees only, which from 1 September 2025 amount to £4,010 per term. Under current legislation childcare vouchers can only be used for care until 1 September following the child’s fifteenth birthday. Therefore, we anticipate that in most cases we will only be able to accept childcare vouchers for boarders in the Third and Fourth Forms. If you would like to use childcare vouchers for part payment of boarding fees, please contact parentsaccounts@sherborne.org Please note that School fees are due on or before the first day of term including any element covered by childcare vouchers.
Insurance and liability
The School does not, unless negligent or guilty of other wrongdoing, accept responsibility for accidental injury or loss of property. The device your son uses under the new device scheme will have its own insurance.
Pupil Absence Insurance Scheme
The School is not able to reimburse parents if their son is absent from School during term time owing to sickness or injury. Instead, the School can offer the Pupil Absence Insurance Scheme through Marsh which provides a refund of fees in the event your son is absent from School by reason of illness or accident. Minimum absence periods apply. The termly charge is 0.73% of the fees – whether day or boarding.
Pupils’ Personal Accident
Your son will be covered by this Scheme automatically once he joins the School. The premiums are paid by the School at no additional cost to parents. Cover up to £600,000 is provided worldwide, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. This insurance is provided by Allianz Insurance.
Pupils’ Emergency Dental Cover
Your son will be covered by this Scheme automatically once he joins the School. The premiums are paid by the School at no additional cost to parents. Please see details under “Medical”.
AXA PPP Health Scheme
This Scheme is offered by the School and costs £150 per term. An application form will be available in due course. Whilst the scheme provides access to certain physiotherapy treatments (from the scheme’s recognised supplier list), the School also works with Abbey View Physiotherapy in Shaftesbury to ensure all aspects of provision are made available to our boys.
Insurance of pupils’ belongings
Boys are responsible for the security and safe use of their personal property and it is important that all personal property is clearly named. Where appropriate, it is important that all serial/model numbers are safely noted. All personal insurances are the responsibility of parents, including insurance of the boy’s personal property, including portable electronic devices, whilst at School or on the way to or from School or on any School - sponsored activity away from the School. Your own insurance company may be prepared to extend cover to include your son’s possessions whilst at School. If your son’s possessions are damaged, lost or stolen, the School is not able to reimburse you on its own insurance policy. However much care is taken to safeguard these items, occasionally things do go astray. The device your son uses under the new device scheme will have its own insurance. For further information: https://www.sherborne.org/userfiles/s bsmvc/documents/Device%20informa tion%20for%20new%20boys2%20%20Apr%202025.pdf
General
Abbreviations
Many abbreviations and acronyms are used within the School community. The following should prove helpful:
a School House
b Abbey House
c The Green
d Harper House
e Wallace House
f Abbeylands
g Lyon House
m The Digby
BSR Big School Room
OSR Old School Room
SG Sherborne Girls
HsM Housemaster
Change of address or contact details
Please remember to notify the HsM of any changes of address, telephone number or email address of parents and guardians.
Catering/food
The School believes that boys should be provided with a healthy, satisfying and well-balanced diet. Breakfast, lunch and supper are provided, with lunch being the main meal of the day. Wherever possible a choice of food is offered, and at lunchtime there are always several options including a salad bar. A varied menu is provided for vegetarians, for religious observance and for those with food allergies (so long as these have been advised in advance). It is important to promote good eating habits and the catering staff offer information to the boys about the foods available to help them in choosing a healthy diet.
The Hub
The Hub café, which is situated at the entrance to the Sixth Form Common Room, is open to Sixth Form boys, staff, parents and the general public. It opens from 8.00am-5.00pm Monday to Friday and 8.00am-3.00pm on Saturdays throughout the year, and offers high quality coffee, tea, cold drinks and a variety of home baked cakes and savouries as well as a ‘tuck shop’ offering confectionery.
Data protection
The School is strongly committed to protecting the privacy of your personal information. Any data you provide will be held securely and in accordance with data protection law, including the General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).
To read our Privacy Notice in full please refer to our website: https://www.sherborne.org/aboutsherborne/policies-and-inspectionreports
The Old Shirburnian Society (OSS) and the Sherborne School Foundation are situated in separate offices and hold data independently of the Bursary and School offices. For further information, please refer to the www.sherborne.org/userfiles/sbsmvc/doc uments/policies-reports/general/ SS_SI_SPS_BUR_012%20%20Privacy%20Notice%20Jan.pdf All data is held securely in these offices and is treated confidentially and with sensitivity for the benefit of the Old Shirburnian Society, Sherborne Boys and the
Sherborne School Foundation and their respective members.
Data is used for a full range of alumni activities, including the sending of Society, School and Foundation publications; the promotion of benefits and services available to alumni and notification of alumni events. Data may also be used by the Foundation in fundraising programmes, which might include an element of direct marketing. Under Data Protection law you have the right to object to the use of your data by the Sherborne School Foundation and the OSS for any of the above.
Parent Portal
The School provides access to up-todate information on boys’ progress via the Sherborne Parent Portal, a website designed specifically for Sherborne parents and guardians. The information available through the Portal includes information such as the Values, Expectations and Standards, teaching sets and teachers, timetables, rewards and discipline records, end of term reports, assessment results, examination entry details and examination results, as well as a directory of School staff. Full details of how to connect to the Portal will be sent to you by email.
School rules and policies
The School rules are published separately in the Values, Expectations and Standards.
Many of the School’s policies are listed on the website. If you have any queries about them, a full list and copies of the policies themselves are available on request.
Other Schools:
Sherborne Schools Group
Sherborne Boys offers all the advantages of single-sex learning alongside a rich, collaborative cocurricular and msocial experience through our longstanding relationship with Sherborne Girls. Activities that are shared include Music, Drama, clubs and societies and social activities. Sherborne Boys Newell Grange Campus is owned by the School, but it is run independently, running short courses.
On the 1 July 2024, the charitable trusts that own Sherborne Boys, Sherborne Girls, Sherborne Prep and Hanford Prep, merged to form the Sherborne Schools Group. Sherborne Boys and Sherborne Prep already enjoyed established and wide-ranging links, with many Prep pupils choosing to continue their education at Sherborne Boys. Equally, Sherborne Prep and Hanford Prep continue to prepare pupils to enter a broad range of co-educational and single sex senior schools, including Sherborne Girls with whom the Schools continue to enjoy close and enduring partnerships.
ICT Acceptable Use Policy
ICT is an important part of learning, and it is essential that all boys behave responsibly and know how to stay safe when using it. The intention of this Policy is to ensure that boys use digital technology sensibly and legally and to protect them from inappropriate attention or unsuitable material.
Pupils and parents are asked to read this ICT Acceptable Use Policy carefully, to discuss it and then to sign the agreement in the New Boys’ Pack. Any concerns can be discussed with the Director of ICT Services.
Once you and your son have signed the Policy, your signatures will indicate acceptance of the Policy (and any subsequent iterations) for the whole time that your son is at the School. The aim and spirit of the Policy will stay the same from year to year, but the School reserves the right to change the wording of some of the technical details in order to take account of any recent developments in ICT, legislation, and best practice. Boys will be kept informed of any changes.
All boys are required to understand and agree that:
• References to ICT in this policy include all electronic Information and Communications Technologies, including network connections, Wi-Fi, the internet, email, social media, mobile technologies, and online resources including the use of Generative and other forms of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Unless specified otherwise, this policy applies equally to the use of equipment owned by boys as it does to equipment provided by the School.
• Access to the School’s ICT facilities is provided primarily in support of educational research and learning. Academic use takes priority at all times.
• The School has a legal duty to protect and safeguard the boys, and reserves the right to monitor, record and store a record of ICT use. This information may be used to prevent cases of inappropriate, unethical, or illegal activity, or provide evidence to authorities if required.
• Boys must refrain from accessing any content that would be considered as offensive by the School or their parents/guardians, including (but not limited to) pornographic, extremist, racist, violent, sexist, defamatory, blasphemous, or other offensive or unacceptable material. Boys are responsible for reporting to the School any such material if it is accessed inadvertently.
• The use of mobile data networks on personal devices is prohibited, as this could place boys at significant risk and also risks compromising the School’s network security and protection.
• The use of VPN (Virtual Private Network) software on devices is strictly prohibited within the School. Any installation of this type of software will automatically prevent the device from connecting to the School’s wireless network and will be an impediment to learning and teaching.
• All passwords, whether for School accounts, personal social media accounts, or mobile devices, must be kept secure and a boy may only use School facilities whilst logged on with his correct username and password.
• Boys must not allow others to use their username and password and they must not leave a computer unattended whilst logged on.
• The School email system is the preferred form of email to be used from within the School. School emails are filtered and may be monitored for forbidden content. Personal email accounts should not be used for school communication.
• Boys may only use “social media” outside of working hours.
• Boys must take particular care online to respect other people, including other boys, and must not act in ways which might cause offence or upset.
• Boys must use social media responsibly and must not reveal sensitive or personally identifiable information about themselves or others. Particular care must be taken not to share information or photographs which would cause offense or embarrassment if they became public.
• Boys must not use any technology to impersonate another person.
• Boys must be courteous and use appropriate language in all electronic communication. Note also that the law of libel is applicable online.
• Boys must respect copyright laws and intellectual property rights.
• Boys must accept that plagiarism is always unacceptable, including copying material from other boys and claiming it as their own work. They must not access websites that encourage plagiarism or other academic dishonesty. They may only use downloaded materials in an appropriate manner in their work, listing it in a bibliography and clearly specifying quoted material.
• Boys must not seek to obtain or view illegally pirated media, software, or other material.
• Boys must not tamper with files, passwords or other types of data or electronic media belonging to other users.
• Boys must not damage either the hardware or software of any computer systems.
• Boys must not use any School resources for personal commercial gain.
• Boys may make responsible use of AI, subject to the guidance of their teachers and any restrictions that the School may impose from time to time. AI must never be used to replace critical thinking or to submit work to teachers or examination bodies as being work of their own making. Boys may use AI tools for pieces of work if the teacher has permitted it, but boys must ensure that they do not use AI to the detriment of their understanding of the material. In addition, boys will be asked to undertake training in the use of AI in accordance with the School’s AI policy, whether that be for their general education or for submitting work for assessment purposes.
• Boys must not attempt to gain entry to any systems or data that they do not have explicit authorisation to access or use any hardware or software on the network to assist in gaining entry.
• Boys must not attempt to install, store, or use unauthorised software on any School equipment, including the School network.
• In bringing their own equipment such as ‘phones, laptops or tablets into School or the House, boys agree to allow and assist access to the data upon them by Housemasters or other senior staff where required as part of a disciplinary investigation.
• The School accepts no liability for any loss or damage to any equipment the boys bring to school.
• Boys agree to install the classroom.cloud pupil software on the devices that they use in a scheduled class and agree not to uninstall this software so that it can be utilised by teachers to aid in improving teaching and learning.
• Failure to abide by the above policy is likely to lead to restrictions to access of the School’s facilities and may lead to other sanctions including, in the most serious cases, expulsion from the School.
Laptops and Mobile Devices in School
Boys with tablets and mobile devices such as phones may bring them into School on the understanding that they are only to be used in accordance with the above policy. They can connect to the School network using wireless connections throughout the Boarding Houses, buildings and grounds. Parents must accept that if they provide or allow their son to purchase or use 3G/4G devices that it will be impossible for the School to monitor pupil internet usage and safety. The parents must accept responsibility for any unfiltered usage.
Travel arrangements for Exeats and at Half Term
Sherborne train station is easily accessible and House staff are able to assist boys in arranging train tickets. Sherborne Boys and Sherborne Girls organise joint travel to local and London airports for the start of term, half term and the end of term. Additional coach options may be available towards south west London for Exeats Further information about these services and relevant charges will be sent to parents each term.
The School is required to check and approve taxi companies that are used by the boys and this list is available on request.
Old Shirburnian Society CHAIRMAN
Mr Stephen Rees-Williams
TREASURER
Mr Martin Humphrey
SECRETARY
Mr John Harden 01935 810558 oss@sherborne.org
www.oldshirburnian.org.uk
The Old Shirburnian Society was established in 1877 and now has almost 9,000 members. It is hoped that your son will join the OSS as it offers many social, business and sporting benefits from the time that he leaves Sherborne.
The Society aims to support Old Shirburnians in many ways, especially in relation to careers. Our online platform ‘Sherborne Connect’ runs a full mentoring service which is enjoying widespread success.
Informal and formal social events are arranged to suit all age groups. The Society also publishes the annual OS Record as well as more informal news.
Guardianship
We have a Guardianship Policy which applies to the parents of boys whose home address is not in the United Kingdom or whose parents are away from home frequently or for a long period of time.
To view our Guardianship Policy, please visit: https://www.sherborne.org/aboutsherborne/policies-and-inspection-reports
Useful Information for Parents
Local bed and breakfast/hotel/self-catering accommodation
