Term Dates and Arrival and Departure Timings
SPRING
SUMMER TERM 2026
Boarders Arrive All Boarders
Monday 13 April (between 6.00 and 8.30pm)
Start of term All Students Tuesday 14 April
Bank Holiday Monday All Students (Boarders remain at school)
Boarders Depart All Boarders
Half Term All Students
Boarders Arrive All Boarders
Senior School finishes for Late Summer Programme (LSP)
Monday 4 May
Friday 22 May (after 4.00pm)
Monday 25 to Friday 29 May (1 week)
Sunday 31 May (between 6.00 and 8.30pm)
Senior School and Sixth Form Students. Boarders remain at school Friday 3 July (12.00 Noon)
End of Term Boarders in Years 7 to 10 (I to IV Group) and Year 12 (Lower Sixth)
Boarders Depart Boarders in Years 7 to 10 (I to IV Group) and Year 12 (Lower Sixth)
Boarders in Year 11 (V Group) and Year 13 (Upper Sixth)
General
Arrival and Departure Guidelines
International Arrivals
If your child is travelling from overseas, please contact the Houseparents in advance to confirm arrival arrangements.
Arrival and Departure Times for Flexi Boarders
The timings listed for ‘All Boarders’ apply to Full and Weekly Boarders. Flexi Boarders should coordinate their individual arrival and departure times directly with the Houseparents.
Sunday Returns
Weekly and Full Boarders returning on Sunday evenings after a weekend away should arrive between 6.00pm and 8.30pm. If your child will be delayed or if any issues arise, please contact the Houseparents by telephone. If a Sunday evening meal is required, this must be booked in advance.
Safeguarding and Visiting Protocols
In line with safeguarding expectations, all visiting parents, relatives and guardians must sign in at the Boarding House and be accompanied by a member of resident staff. Students may be collected or dropped off in the communal areas only. Entry to student bedrooms is only permitted on the first and last day of term.
Friday 10 July (12.00 Noon)
Friday 10 July, after they return from LSP
Boarders in these years should leave directly after their last exam.
End of Term Departures
Boarders should leave as soon as possible after lessons on the final day of term or half-term. If early departure is necessary and would involve missing lessons, permission must be sought from the Houseparents in advance. We understand that travel plans can require flexibility and are happy to support where possible.
Requests for Absence
Any request for a student to leave earlier than the official end of term, or for an absence longer than half a day, must be made to the Head. Please email: head@stchris.co.uk
Travel Arrangements
Please confirm travel plans with the Houseparents well ahead of each term’s start or end. If a taxi transfer is required, bookings should be made at least two weeks in advance.
Late Summer Programme (LSP)
All students in Years 7 to 10 (I Group to IV Group) and Year 12 (Lower Sixth) take part in a residential trip at the end of the school year as part of our Late Summer Programme. Please check the dates before booking any summer travel.
Year 11 and Year 13 Departures
Students in Years 11 (V Group) and 13 (Upper Sixth) are expected to leave school after completing their final GCSE or A Level exams, rather than staying until the official end of the Summer Term.
End-of-Term Room Preparation
Before leaving for the holidays, students are asked to leave their rooms clean, tidy and organised so that the spaces can be prepared for their return.
Homesickness and Settling In
Feeling homesick is a natural part of adjusting to boarding life — and it’s something that can affect students of any age, whether or not they’ve lived away from home before.
Moving into a new environment, with new routines and unfamiliar surroundings, can feel overwhelming at first. For some students, this feeling may be intensified by cultural or language differences, especially if English is not their first language. It’s completely normal to miss home — and we’re here to help students through that process.
At St Chris, we take homesickness seriously. Our staff are trained to offer sensitive, individualised support, and we encourage all boarders to talk to a member of staff if they’re feeling low, unsettled or anxious.
Equally, we ask students to look out for one another. If you notice that someone in the boarding community seems to be struggling, please encourage them to speak with a trusted adult — or speak to a member of staff on their behalf.
Looking after each other is everyone’s responsibility. A kind word or a small gesture of support can make all the difference.
Day-to-Day Life
Daily Routine
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
7.30am Wake up
7.40am Breakfast in the Dining Hall
8.00 - 8.25am Back to the Boarding House. Make bed, tidy room and leave for school by 8.25am at the latest.
8.40am Registration with Company Adviser or for Sixth Form students, in the Sixth Form Centre SCHOOL DAY
3.40pm School finishes.
All return to the Boarding House to sign in and get a snack and a drink
3.45 - 5.30pm Free time and Activities. Boarders may return to school for main co-curricular programme which runs until 5.00pm, after signing in the Boarding House.
Year 9 (III Group)
May sign out and go into Letchworth at most twice in a week, but must be back by 5.30pm to sign in
Years 10 to 13 (IV Group to Upper Sixth)
May sign out and go into Letchworth but must be back by 5.30pm to sign in
5.30pm Dinner in the Dining Hall.
Years 12 and 13 (Sixth Form) do not have to join for dinner and can instead cook their own food in their shared kitchen.
6.15pm Supervised Prep (Homework)
Years 7, 8 and 9 (I to III Group) 6.15 to 7.15pm in IT
Year 10 (IV Group) 6.15 to 7.45pm in IT
Year 11 (V Group) 6.15 to 7.45pm in Boarding House
Year 12 and 13 (Sixth Form) 6.15 to 8.15pm in Boarding House or in the Sixth Form Centre
After Prep Free time and activities
8.45pm Bedtime routine begins
Year 7 (I Group)
8.45pm get ready for bed, 9.15pm lights out
Year 8 (II Group)
9.05pm get ready for bed, 9.30pm lights out
Year 9 (III Group)
9.15pm get ready for bed, 9.45pm lights out
Year 10 (IV Group)
9.30pm get ready for bed, 10.00pm lights out
Year 11 (V Group) 1
0.00pm get ready for bed, 10.30pm lights out
Years 12 and 13 (Sixth Form)
10.00pm - All Sixth Form students must be back in the Boarding House and have signed in.
10.30pm - All Sixth Form students in their rooms, students may read quietly. 11.00pm - All electronic equipment must be turned off.
SATURDAY 7.30am
9.00 - 9.30am Breakfast in the Dining Hall
Saturday Activty Programme
A weekly group trip followed by the opportunity to relax, study and socialise.
Sixth Form students can join the trip or they can remain in school. For those remaining in school lunch is from 12.30 to 1.00pm
5.30 - 6.00pm Dinner in the Dining Hall
Bedtimes at the discretion of duty staff
SUNDAY
11.00am - 12.00pm Sunday Brunch
Free Time
The opportunity to participate in activities on campus, relax, catch up on prep or visit friends with permission.
5.30 - 6.00pm Dinner in the Dining Hall
Bedtimes at the discretion of duty staff
Prep Time
“Prep” is the time allocated for students to do their homework each weeknight.
Prep for boarders in Years 7 - 10 (I – IV Group) is supervised in a classroom in the IT building by a member of the teaching staff. Students are expected to work quietly and make good use of their Prep time.
Students in Year 11 to Year 13 (V Group and Sixth Form) work in their rooms in the Boarding House. A member of the academic staff is on duty during Prep in the Boarding House to support students in their work, and the School’s library is available in the evenings.
Full Boarders reaming in the Boarding House for the weekend will be supported to be establish their routine for weekend work.
Weekday Registration
These occur at the following times and are a legal requirement:
7.40am Dining Hall at Breakfast
8.40am Morning Registration with Company Adviser/ in Sixth Form Centre
1.55pm In Period 5 Lesson or in Sixth Form Centre
3.45pm In Boarding House
5.40pm in Dining Hall At bedtime as above.
Weekends have a degree of flexibility which will be explained to Boarders by the Boarding House team. Typically, registration at weekend takes place before meal times.
Signing in and Signing Out
Boarders must sign in and out whenever they leave the Boarding House, even when they leave for school in the morning and return in the evening. It is a legal requirement for us to know who is in the boarding accommodation at any given time.
Weekly boarders must also remember to sign out on a Friday afternoon when returning home and to sign back in again on a Sunday evening or Monday morning when they return.
Students may not leave the School campus after dinner without permission from a Houseparent.
If there are delays to an arranged or expected return time (including when with a parent or guardian) Houseparents must be contacted by telephone immediately.
Living in the Boarding House
Accommodation
Boarding at St Chris offers a mix of shared and individual bedrooms, alongside communal bathrooms and welcoming social spaces where students can relax and connect.
We aim to place boarders near others of a similar age to help foster friendships and peer support. Male and female students are accommodated in separate areas of the Boarding House. For safeguarding reasons, boys and girls are not permitted to enter each other’s living areas — this includes bedrooms, bathrooms, corridors and staircases. Any breach of this expectation is treated as a serious matter.
Common rooms, games rooms and shared social spaces are open to all students, providing a friendly and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy.
Each student has a comfortable single bed, a desk, wardrobe and drawers. While rooms are cleaned daily by housekeeping staff, students are expected to keep their space tidy.
Taking responsibility for your own area encourages independence and self-discipline, and helps to maintain the mutual respect that underpins life in a boarding community.
We encourage students to personalise their rooms, and each has a large pin board for photos, artwork and mementoes. However, in line with fire safety regulations, items such as blankets or shawls must not be hung on walls or ceilings. Electrical appliances such as kettles, heaters or cooking gadgets are not permitted in bedrooms, and floors must be kept clear to ensure quick evacuation in case of emergency.
If any furniture or fittings become damaged, please notify the Houseparents so that repairs or replacements can be arranged swiftly.
Food and Catering
Boarders are served breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Dining Hall – known as the “IG” (short for Indoor Gym, its original use!). Meals are freshly prepared and designed to be healthy, balanced and enjoyable.
Fresh fruit and light snacks are also available in the Boarding House throughout the day. Fruit is always freely accessible, and students are welcome to take it with them to school if they wish.
St Chris has a long-standing vegetarian tradition. As such, no meat or fish is served or consumed on campus between 8.00am and 3.45pm, and all school lunches are vegetarian. The school is a nut-aware environment.
For boarders, meat and fish options are provided at breakfast and dinner, and can be eaten in the Boarding House after 3.45pm. These options are also available at all weekend meals.
Medical Diets and Allergies
If a student has a specific dietary requirement or allergy, this will be managed carefully by our catering team, in line with medical guidance and parental instructions. Please refer to the Health section of this brochure for further information on managing serious allergies, including anaphylaxis.
Cooking and Food Culture
Boarders of all year groups have access to kitchen facilities for making simple snacks such as toast or popcorn. Storage space is limited, and we encourage students to avoid keeping food or drink in bedrooms.
Regular cookery evenings are held in the school’s Vege Centre, and we love giving students the chance to cook, share and celebrate the food from their home cultures. Our boarding community also comes together to mark cultural and religious festivals – with food often playing a central role in these shared events.
Takeaways
Boarders may occasionally order takeaway meals, provided they are nut-free and not delivered or eaten during Prep time. All hot food must be eaten in the main communal areas, not in bedrooms.
Clothing and Kit List
To help your child settle comfortably into boarding life at St Chris, we’ve put together the following guide to what they’ll need. This is not an exhaustive list but should cover most essentials.
Everyday Essentials
Socks and underwear – approx. two weeks’ worth 2 sets of nightwear
Dressing gown
Slippers or indoor shoes
1 additional pair of casual trainers
(separate from PE trainers)
Clothing for everyday wear
e.g. jeans, trousers, skirts, T-shirts, sweatshirts
1–2 “smart casual” outfits for events such as the Boarders’ Christmas Party
Personal toiletries
Warm coat and a waterproof jacket
3 towels
Swimsuit or swimming trunks
School bag for books
Sports/kit bag
Mug
PE Kit and School Clothing
Students in Years 7 to 11 (I to V Group) will also need the St Chris PE Kit. Please refer to the Senior School Welcome Book for full details about PE kit and other clothing needed for the school day.
Bedding and Towels
We provide each student with a duvet, pillow, and bed linen (including duvet cover, sheet and pillowcase). However, students are welcome to bring their own if preferred. Extra blankets can also be brought from home, though they are available on request.
Please note: Students must bring their own towels, and we ask that all clothing and bedding be clearly labelled with their name.
Laundry
• Bed linen is laundered weekly, every Friday.
• Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 (I to III Group) may use the school laundry service for their personal clothing if they wish. All items must be clearly labelled, and will be returned washed, dried and pressed.
• Students in Years 10 to 13 (IV Group to Upper Sixth) are responsible for doing their own laundry, using the on-site washing machines and dryers located close to the boarding accommodation. This supports the development of independent living skills in a supportive environment.
Bicycles and Cars
Boarders are welcome to bring bicycles, which are a great way to explore the surrounding area. Students must also bring a helmet, lock, pump, bell and working front and rear lights. Bikes are stored in a secure rack outside the Boarding House and should be insured by parents.
Boarders of driving age are not permitted to drive or keep a car at school, and students may not travel in another student’s car under any circumstances.
Communications and Technology
Wi-Fi and Devices
Wi-Fi is available throughout the school and Boarding House, and is active daily between 6.00am and midnight.
To support healthy routines, students in Years 7 to 10 (I to IV Group) are required to hand in their phones, laptops and other devices before bedtime. Students in Year 11 (V Group) and above may retain their devices
overnight, but if they are found using them after 11.00pm, these will be temporarily removed.
Our school network is filtered and monitored, with robust firewalls in place. Attempts to access unsuitable content are flagged and reviewed regularly by the Head of IT. The full IT Acceptable Use Policy is available on the school website:
www.stchris.co.uk/about-us/policies
Misuse of IT systems is taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action.
Phones,
TV and Media Use
Students may use their own mobile phones or laptops outside of Prep and bedtime. Parents may also contact their child via the Boarding House student phones (numbers available in the contact section). The main school switchboard should be reserved for emergencies or calls relating to overseas students with special arrangements.
Students are not permitted to make or receive calls during Prep or after lights out.
Communal televisions are available in the Boarding House and may be used after school hours and once Prep is complete. TVs are not permitted in bedrooms.
Students may bring laptops or tablets to school. These should be insured by parents, and students are responsible for their safekeeping. Films may be watched on these devices, but must first be approved by the staff member on duty. Computer games must be age-appropriate and follow UK certification guidelines.
Pocket Money and House Bank
Students will need money for essentials such as toiletries, stationery and small personal items.
We operate a House Bank system to support boarders in managing their pocket money. Parents are encouraged to deposit a suitable amount into the account at the start of each term. A minimum of £20 is requested to cover any unforeseen expenses, even if the student does not wish to use the account regularly.
Students may withdraw small amounts, and Houseparents will check with parents if a large sum is requested. Any remaining balance is either carried forward to the next term or credited to the final school invoice at the end of the Summer Term.
What can and cannot be charged to the school bill:
Not charged to your bill
• Clothing
• Sports equipment
• Stamps
• Phone credit
• Batteries
Can be charged to your bill
• Travel expenses
• Washing powder
• Some school trips (most are included in fees)
• Minor repairs and replacements
Passports and Documents
Passports, BRPs and other important documents are securely held by the Houseparents and returned at the end of each half-term or term. Students must return these to the Houseparents upon arriving back at school.
We recommend keeping a photocopy of passport details for reference in case documentation is needed during term time. If a passport is lost, students must inform the Houseparents immediately.
Student Life and Activities
Co-Curricular Activities for Boarders
At St Chris, we believe school life should be about far more than lessons. Alongside academic learning, our students are encouraged to discover new passions, develop personal interests and explore the wider world through a wide-ranging programme of co-curricular and enrichment activities.
In addition to the extensive offering available to all students during the school day, boarders benefit from their own dedicated programme of activities in the evenings and at weekends — designed to build friendships, confidence and a sense of fun.
Evening Activity Programme
Evening activities take place in the Boarding House or local area, with relaxed options that fit around the school timetable. From quiz nights and films with pizza, to baking sessions with the Houseparents, the focus is on connection, creativity and winding down after the day.
Details of all evening activities are shared on the Boarding House noticeboard. These are offered in addition to after-school clubs, sports teams and wider enrichment opportunities open to all students.
Boarders also enjoy access to many of the School’s facilities during evenings and weekends — including the swimming pool, tennis courts, skate park, fitness suite and playing fields. The grounds remain open throughout the week for boarders to enjoy time outdoors with friends.
We warmly welcome student input, and boarders are encouraged to suggest ideas and take part in shaping the activities offered throughout the year.
Current Weeknight Activities Include:
Tuesday
• Fortnightly cookery in the Vege Centre baking, pizzas, pancakes and more 7.00-9.00pm
• Badminton (Autumn and Spring Terms) 7.30-9.00pm
• Tennis (Summer Term) 7.30-9.00pm Wednesday
• Fitness session in the Gym 8.00-9.00pm
Thursday
• Football (Autumn and Spring Terms – Sports Hall) 7.30-9.00pm
• Football (Summer Term – Astroturf) 7.30-9.00pm
Weekend Activity Programme
Every Saturday, boarders take part in an organised off-campus trip or activity. These are a great way to explore new places, try something different, and enjoy time together as a community.
Recent weekend trips have included:
• Go-karting
• Virtual reality experiences
• Madame Tussauds
• Duxford Air Museum
• Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Tour
• Ninja Warrior assault course
• Roller-skating
• Pantomime theatre trip
• Trampoline park
• Paintballing
Trips and Time Out of School
Local Day Trips
Houseparents can give permission for short trips to Letchworth, Hitchin or Stevenage, provided the student is going with fellow boarders and returns within the agreed timeframe.
Trips Further Afield
Visits to places further away, such as Cambridge or London, require advance permission from parents or guardians. Houseparents must receive an email with full travel details at least 24 hours in advance.
Overnight Stays
If a boarder wishes to stay overnight at a friend’s house, permission must be received in writing (email or letter) from both the friend’s parents and the boarder’s own parent or guardian. Telephone messages will not be accepted. Please note that overnight stays are not permitted during the school week.
Changes to Plans
If there’s a change to the expected return time for any outing, it’s essential that students — or their parents/guardians — contact the Houseparents as soon as possible.
Visitors and Guests
Student Guests
Day students at St Chris who are friends of boarders are welcome to visit the Boarding House by invitation, after school from 3.45pm to 5.45pm. All student visitors must sign in and out with the member of staff on duty.
Please note that friends from outside of St Chris are not permitted to enter the Boarding House at any time.
Adult Visitors
Parents, guardians, relatives and educational agents are warmly welcome to visit by prior arrangement with the Houseparents. Visits should take place after 3.55pm, once the school day has ended.
All adult visitors must sign in first at Main School Reception, and then again at the Boarding House. A member of the resident staff team must accompany visitors at all times while inside the house, and visits are limited to communal areas only.
Parents and guardians may enter their child’s bedroom only on arrival day at the start of term and on the final day of term to assist with luggage or packing. Even then, they must sign in and be accompanied by a member of the boarding staff team.
Wellbeing, Health and Safety
Pastoral Support and Wellbeing
The wellbeing of our boarders lies at the heart of everything we do. At St Chris, we pride ourselves on the high level of individual pastoral care we provide — care that is rooted in the strong, trusting relationships between students and staff in the Boarding House. Boarders are never alone in facing a challenge or navigating a difficult moment. The Boarding House team is always here to help, and we encourage students to speak to us about anything they are unsure or worried about — however small it may seem.
Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) for Boarders
PSHE is an integral part of life at St Chris. All students receive weekly lessons following a programme developed in line with guidance from the PSHE Association. These lessons are designed to support students’ personal development and help them navigate the wider world with integrity and understanding.
In addition to the core programme, boarders also benefit from tailored PSHE sessions within the Boarding House. These offer space for open conversation and reflection, guided by students’ own interests, concerns and experiences — helping to support their wellbeing and sense of community.
Inclusion at St Chris
We are proud of the diverse, inclusive community at St Chris. Our pastoral care extends to meeting students’ religious, cultural, racial and linguistic needs with thoughtfulness and respect. This includes: Tailored food provision at significant times of year (e.g. during Ramadan, students may eat at appropriate times outside of regular dining hours)
Celebration of religious and cultural festivals, including Eid, Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur — with events and shared meals in the Boarding House for those who cannot be with family
Cultural evenings throughout the year, where students share and celebrate their heritage and traditions with the wider boarding community
A range of social, creative and sporting activities that promote inclusion, understanding and a sense of belonging for students of all backgrounds
We recognise that inclusion is an ongoing commitment. Our staff receive training to help ensure that every student is seen, understood and supported — just as they are.
Health and Medical Matters
Boarders are cared for by a team of dedicated staff, including Houseparents, Resident Tutors and our School Nurse — all of whom are trained in First Aid and committed to supporting both the physical and emotional health of our students.
Medical Information
It is essential that the School is kept fully informed of any medical conditions, allergies or ongoing treatments. The School Nurse must have up-to-date health records for every student. Please communicate any medical updates directly to the Nurse, or to the Admissions Team before your child starts school.
School Surgery and Daytime Care
If a student feels unwell during the school day, they should go to the School Surgery to be assessed by the School Nurse. Minor illnesses and injuries will be treated on site, and medication can be administered as needed. If a student is too unwell to continue with lessons, they may rest in the surgery under the Nurse’s supervision.
If a boarder becomes unwell at night, they should let the Houseparents or Resident Tutor know immediately. Our team is always on hand.
Boarding and medical staff are trained to support students with specific health conditions such as asthma, allergies (including anaphylaxis), diabetes and epilepsy. Written records are kept for all medication given and care provided.
GP and Dental Services
All boarding students are registered with local GP and dental practices. If an appointment is required, the School Nurse will organise it, and a member of staff will accompany the student.
Serious Illness or Hospital Visits
In the event of a more serious illness, students will be taken to the Lister Hospital in Stevenage (approximately 10 minutes away), either by car or ambulance if necessary. Parents or guardians will be contacted as soon as possible.
While the School Surgery has beds available in emergencies, if it becomes clear a student will need more than a day to recover, parents or guardians will be asked to collect them, or arrangements will be made for them to stay with their UK guardian.
Medication
If a student returns to school with any medication — including common pain relief such as paracetamol — it must be handed directly to the Houseparents or staff on duty, regardless of the student’s age. This helps us ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
School Counsellor
Alongside our in-house support, St Chris also offers access to a fully qualified School Counsellor. Counselling sessions take place during the school day and can be arranged discreetly. If a student would like to make an appointment or learn more, they or their parent/guardian can contact the School Nurse: nurse@stchris.co.uk
Child Protection and Safeguarding Contacts
If something is making a student unhappy, or if they have a concern about anything at all, it is very important that this is shared with an adult that they feel able to talk to.
It doesn’t matter if the worry is about something or someone at St Chris or outside of school, our students are encouraged to approach an adult to talk to. The best person to approach, while at school, is the Houseparents, Resident Tutor, Company Adviser or Head of Year. However, any member of staff can be approached at any time, including the Head.
At St Chris, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. The Designated Safeguarding Lead is the person appointed to take central responsibility for child protection issues and safeguarding concerns in the School, and is part of a wider Safeguarding Team.
The St Chris community shares the goal of helping to keep students safe by contributing to a safe environment for all through communication, vigilance and taking appropriate action.
For a student or a parent, the best person to
approach with any concerns in the first instance is the Houseparent or Resident Tutor. However, if it is felt that this is not appropriate in the circumstances, please contact someone on the Safeguarding Team:
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Alistair Phillips
alistair.phillips@stchris.co.uk
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, Senior School and Boarding
Joe Sapsford
joe.sapsford@stchris.co.uk
Independent Person for Boarders
In addition to the support offered within the Boarding House, St Chris boarders can speak in confidence with an Independent Person – someone who is not part of the day-to-day school team, and who can provide a neutral space for conversation. The Independent Person is there to listen, offer impartial advice, and help guide students to the right support.
Boarders may contact our Independent Person, at any time:
Carolyn Dorrington +44 (0)7810 540844 listener@stchris.co.uk
Carolyn’s contact details are displayed in the Boarding House and around the School.
Who
else can help?
In addition to the St Chris boarding team and the Independent Person for Boarders, there are a range of external agencies students can contact for support or help, including:
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads, Senior School
Nat Baker nat.baker@stchris.co.uk
Kirsten Rockey
kirsten.rockey@stchris.co.uk
Amelia Turvey
amelia.turvey@stchris.co.uk
ChildLine
A confidential telephone support service for young people:
24hr Telephone: 0800 11 11 Website: https://www.childline.org.uk/ Kooth
Free, safe and anonymous online support and counselling for young people and children. Website: https://www.kooth.com/ Shout
Free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
T: Text “Shout” to 85258 Samaritans
24 hr Telephone: 116 123
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Health and Safety
Your Safety and Security
The safety of our boarders is our highest priority. All student entrances are secured with coded locks, which are updated regularly. For security reasons, doors must never be left on the latch. Student bedrooms are fitted with Yale locks for privacy and security; these cannot be latched from inside.
For everyone’s safety, boarders must never allow unauthorised individuals into the Boarding House. An intruder alarm is activated at lock-up each evening, and safeguarding procedures are always followed to ensure a safe and secure environment.
Money and Valuables
While theft is rare within our close-knit community, we encourage students to take care with valuables. Items such as phones, laptops or jewellery should not be left unattended in bedrooms.
Please note: the School’s insurance covers fire and flood damage, but not loss or damage to personal belongings. Parents are advised to arrange suitable insurance for valuable items such as laptops, phones and bicycles.
Students should not keep money in their rooms. Any money brought to school should be handed to the Houseparents, who will arrange for it to be securely stored with our Finance Team.
Each student is provided with a lockable storage space in their bedroom or study area. During school holidays, students are expected to take all valuables home with them.
Fire Safety and Hazardous Items
Fire Safety Procedures
The School maintains high levels of fire safety awareness and holds regular drills to ensure all students know what to do in the event of an emergency.
On their first evening, all boarders will be given a clear fire safety briefing
Fire evacuation procedures are posted throughout the Boarding House
Fire drills are held every term
All student rooms are connected to the School’s fire alarm system
Fire doors and escape routes must be kept closed at all times unless in use for an emergency. The fire escape stairs are out of bounds except during evacuations.
Hazardous Items
The following items are not permitted in student rooms due to fire risk. If found, they will be removed and stored safely until the end of term and returned to parents/guardians:
• Kitchen appliances (e.g. fridges, kettles, rice cookers, toasters)
• Irons
• Portable televisions
• Electric heaters
If in doubt about whether an item is appropriate for the Boarding House, please speak with the Houseparents before bringing it to school.
Electrical Safety and PAT Testing
To comply with safety standards, all personal electrical items brought into the Boarding House must be tested at the start of each academic year (usually in September) to confirm they are safe for use.
• Extension leads and international adapters are not allowed, as they pose a fire risk. These will be confiscated if found.
• House staff can advise on safe plug adapters and certified items (look for the CE kitemark).
Expectations and Responsibilities
Boarding House Rules
Expectations for behaviour in the Boarding House reflect those of the wider school and of a respectful home. Our aim is to create a warm, supportive and safe environment where every student feels valued.
We encourage boarders to take responsibility for their actions and to contribute positively to the community around them. Our rules are simple, clear and rooted in kindness, mutual respect, and personal accountability.
Boarders are expected to:
Treat all members of the community — students and staff — with courtesy and respect
Stay in regular contact with boarding staff and attend all required check-ins and roll calls
Follow the leave and sign-out procedures for trips or time away from the house
Arrive on time for lessons, activities and any other scheduled commitments
Respect the boundaries of accommodation: boys’ and girls’ bedrooms are in separate areas and should not be entered by students of the opposite gender
• Adhere to bedtime and electronic device guidelines, ensuring a calm and restful environment for all
• Keep bedrooms neat and tidy, make beds each morning, and ensure laundry is put away before heading to school
• Not bring, use, store or possess alcohol, tobacco, vapes or any prohibited items in the Boarding House or anywhere on the School site
Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Vaping
St Chris has a clear, zero-tolerance policy regarding illegal substances, including drugs, alcohol, smoking and vaping. These rules apply on campus and in the local area.
• Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited
• Illegal drugs or substances of any kind are not permitted under any circumstances
Any breach of these rules will result in parents or guardians being informed and may lead to serious disciplinary action, including possible exclusion from school.
Full details of our substance misuse policy can be found on our website: www.stchris.co.uk/policies
Student Duties
Everyone contributes to life in the Boarding House. All boarders are assigned to a duty team, with responsibilities shared out fairly and displayed on the Boarding House noticeboards.
Our guiding principle is simple: we don’t leave work for others. Shared spaces are respected and looked after by everyone.
Policies and Procedures
You can find a full list of our current school policies, including safeguarding, behaviour, IT use, and health and safety, on our website: https://www.stchris.co.uk/policies
These policies reflect our commitment to student wellbeing, individual responsibility, and clear communication between school and families.
Student Voice and Feedback
Boarders’ Voice – “You Said, We Did” At St Chris, we believe that every boarder should feel heard, respected and included in shaping their school experience. Listening to our students — and acting on what they tell us — is central to the way our Boarding House is run.
Boarders are encouraged to share their ideas, raise concerns, or suggest improvements at any time by speaking with Houseparents or other members of the boarding team. In addition to these everyday conversations, we offer a range of more structured opportunities for students to share their views.
These include:
House Meetings
Student Surveys
Focus Groups
Boarding Representatives on the School Council (Senior and Junior)
Houseparents meet regularly with the Head to share boarders’ feedback, and we also have a Governor responsible for boarding, who visits the House regularly and meets with students directly.
We take feedback seriously — and we act on it. Here are just a few examples of recent changes made as a result of boarders’ suggestions:
Prep time was brought forward by 15 minutes to begin at 6.15pm
Bagels and a wider variety of bread were added to the food order for snacks, following discussions about catering
A second games console was provided for older boarders, along with a plug-in controller to reduce battery usage
We’re proud to be a community where everyone’s voice matters.
What to Do if You
Have a Question or Complaint
What to Do if You Have a Question
Prior to your arrival at School please contact the Admissions Team or the Houseparents using the contact details at the back of this booklet.
While at School, there may be times when you have a question or feel that things are not going as well as you would like, or there may even be times when you are feeling unhappy. The School prides itself in being able to offer support in a number of ways:
• Peer Mentors are Sixth Form students trained to offer peer support, and can be contacted while in School.
• Your Adviser or Personal Tutor will be able to offer support or guide you towards appropriate support.
• Any of your teachers, house staff, Houseparents or the Head will be happy to help you, whether the question you have or the problem you are facing is an academic, social, emotional or family one.
Complaints Procedure
We encourage an open and transparent environment at St Chris, and often an honest discussion of issues results in positive outcomes, without the need for formal procedures. However, we do have an official complaints procedure, which can be found on our website: www.stchris.co.uk
All complaints are carefully considered and it is usually helpful to discuss at an early stage the issue itself, as well as our procedures and the possible outcome. In the first instance, please contact the Head, Rich Jones head@stchris.co.uk
The School’s Governors may be contacted in confidence. Alison Burrows is the Chair of Governors: Alison Burrows, Chair of Governors, c/o St Christopher School, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3JZ. Email: alison.burrows@stchris.co.uk
If this is not possible, then complaints can also be made to the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), the official body who inspect boarding schools. Their contact details are as follows:
Independent Schools Inspectorate, Ground Floor, CAP House, 9-12 Long Lane, London, EC1A 9HA Telephone: 020 7600 0100
In addition, if the complainant is not satisfied with the official response from St Chris, Ofsted can be contacted. Ofsted is the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills in the UK. They can be contacted as follows:
Office of the Children’s Rights Director, Ofsted, Aviation House, 125 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6SE Telephone: 0800 528 0731
Key Contacts
A full staff list can be found on the website: https://www.stchris.co.uk/meet-the-team
All staff can be reached by email using the format firstname.surname@stchris.co.uk
Main School Switchboard
+44 (0) 1462 650 850 hello@stchris.co.uk stchris.co.uk
Boarding House
Arundale Boarding House
St Christopher School
Barrington Road
Letchworth Garden City
Hertfordshire
SG6 3JZ
United Kingdom
Boarding House Student Telephone
+44 (0) 1462 650 963
+44 (0) 1462 650 973
Head
Rich Jones head@stchris.co.uk
Deputy Head
Nat Baker nat.baker@stchris.co.uk
Boarding Lead
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Joe Sapsford joe.sapsford@stchris.co.uk
Houseparents
Chris & Cecilia Drayton +44 (0) 7791 650689
+44 (0) 1462 678 945 chris.drayton@stchris.co.uk cecilia.drayton@stchris.co.uk
Resident Tutor
Angeles Ojeda angeles.ojeda@stchris.co.uk
Boarding Assistant
and Saturday Boarding Activity Co-ordinator
Connor Vincent connor.vincent@stchris.co.uk
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Assistant Head (Pastoral Care)
Alistair Phillips alistair.phillips@stchris.co.uk
Independent Person for Boarders
Carolyn Dorrington +44 (0) 7810 540844 listener@stchris.co.uk
Inclusion Strategy Lead (including EAL) Zoe Woodhouse zoe.woodhouse@stchris.co.uk
School Nurse nurse@stchris.co.uk
Chief Operating Officer
Simon Holmes simon.holmes@stchris.co.uk
Finance Team billings@stchris.co.uk
Please contact the Finance Team for any queries regarding invoicing or payment of fees & extras (such as school lunch).
Admissions Department
Sarah Davis
Sarah remains your main contacts before you start with us. After joining, your main contact will be your child’s Adviser. admissions@stchris.co.uk
Chair of Governors
Alison Burrows alison.burrows@stchris.co.uk
Governor for Boarding
Paul Juniper paul.juniper@stchris.co.uk.
Parents’ Circle (PTA) parentscircle@stchris.co.uk
