Senior
School Welcome Handbook
In this booklet you’ll find all the information you need to start your journey at St Chris. Along the way, you’ll meet some key members of staff, find out about our school’s culture and routines, and the answers to any initial questions you may have.
If you have any further queries before your start date, please contact the Admissions Team via admissions@stchris.co.uk
Once your child has started at St Chris, their Company Adviser will be your first point of contact, and their contact details will be sent out to you before the start of term.
Welcome to the Senior School at St Chris
We’re delighted to welcome you into the Senior School community at St Christopher School –or St Chris for short.
St Chris is proud to be a school that values growth over performance, where students learn how to question, rather than just how to answer, and where those entering our Senior School will take their next steps in education in a learning environment that values humanity, understanding, kindness and progress.
When a young person moves forward a step in their education, everything feels new and different both for the student and their parents! It’s an exciting time but periods of change can often bring new worries. Whether you are joining us from St Chris Junior School, from another school or education setting in the UK or indeed are moving to St Chris from a school in another country, our Senior School team is here to support you every step of the way. I can reassure you – because I see it in action on a daily basis – that our students are well cared for and supported through any challenges that they may face as they take this next step.
I am certain that this will be an exciting and fulfilling journey – where students will forge life-long friendships, explore new interests and passions, discover their unique talents, and develop skills that will serve them well in their future academic and personal pursuits. We can’t wait to welcome you into our community.
Rich Jones Head
groups which you will soon get to know when you join
A Day in the Senior School
50 minute lessons a day. The overall structure of the day is as follows:
SPRING
Getting Started
The School Day
For all students, the school day starts at 8.40am and finishes at 3.40pm.
Optional co-curricular activities run each day from 3.45 to 5.00pm.
Start of the Day and Registration
Students need to be in school or 8.40am each morning to register with their Company (our name for Tutor Group)
There are a number of entrances for Senior School students which all have a key pad, and from there students should make their way to their Company Room. Students will be shown where their Company Room is on their Induction Day.
Late arrivals should report to the Mulberry Building to sign in there.
Absence Reporting
If a student is ill, going to be absent from school for a medical appointment, or is running late, parents must email attendance@stchris.co.uk and copy in the student’s Company Adviser, before 9.00am
Absence can also be notified by My School Portal which will inform the Attendance Team.
Lateness should be avoided whenever possible; it disrupts a child’s learning routine and the school day as a whole.
End of the School Day
After school, collection can be made from outside the Theatre area, and Senior School students can travel home on their own.
Please make sure that you have clearly agreed on the arrangements with your child and communicate any changes with their Company Adviser. If your child has a mobile phone, please check that they have a full set of contact information, including the school number.
All students who remain on site after the school day ends at 3.40pm must either be signed up and registered for a co-curricular activity, be registered in the Boarding House if they are a boarder, or must be under the care of staff in the Mulberry Building which is staffed until 5.30pm (5.00pm on a Friday).
They must leave the school site if they are not registered in one of the above areas/activities.
Company Time
Company Time takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10.55 to 11.15am after Little Break.
There are planned topics for Company Time with which focus on areas such as Student Voice, discussing current affairs, delivering parts of the citizenship and PSHE curriculum and other activities we feel are important to students’ personal growth. Students across the whole school also take part in Company Time reading on certain days to support our Literacy initiative.
Morning Talks
All students have two Morning Talks a week on Monday and Friday from 10.55 to 11.15am, after Little Break.
These are our version of assemblies and can be led by staff and students alike and feature topical talks, presentations, music and drama performances. A silence is held during Morning Talks, which we use for reflection.
Morning Talks take place in the Theatre. Each Company takes it in turn, once a term, to help with moving the chairs and tidying the Theatre after Morning Talk.
Breaks
There are two breaks during the school day: Little Break from 10.35 to 10.55am and Lunch Break from 1.00 to 1.55pm. During Little Break students are welcome to bring their own snacks, which should be vegetarian, and nut-free.
Bells and Moving Time
Please be aware that there are no bells at St Chris to advise on the start and end times of lessons so students should get used to wearing and using a watch (although members of staff will be there to help in the first few weeks). Where lessons are back-to-back, there is 5 minutes ‘moving time’ between periods.
Parking and Drop-Off Information
Key Reminders:
As our school community grows – and as cars become larger – we recognise that parking and drop-offs can be challenging, particularly at peak times. Our residential location adds to the complexity, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation in keeping everyone safe.
Please refer to the map above for guidance on where to park. Areas marked in green are available for parking; please avoid those marked in red. Do not park or wait on the main roundabout at the front of school, on double yellow lines, in the loading bay, or where “no parking” signs are displayed. Brief drop-offs in these areas are permitted only if your child is ready and waiting.
When entering Barrington Road via the Main Entrance, please wait at the top if there isn’t room to pass another vehicle – do not mount the pavement to continue. Within school grounds, observe the 10mph speed limit and park with care, being mindful of pedestrians, especially our younger students.
• Only use disabled bays if you have a valid Blue Badge.
• Do not double park or idle your engine on-site or in nearby roads.
• Please respect our neighbours: avoid blocking driveways, parking on pavements, or too close to junctions – especially around Cloisters Road and the Cloisters Entrance.
Staff are on duty at key locations during drop-off and pick-up times to support safe parking and pedestrian access. Please follow their guidance. Thank you for helping to keep our school community safe and respectful for all.
School Bus Transport
St Chris has a partnership with a bus company so that students can travel from a number of areas directly to school.
For more information about bus routes and prices, or to book a space on the bus, please visit the website of our School transport provider, Zeelo.
Bus bookings for September open in June and the Admissions Team will contact parents/carers new to the school to let them know when bookings are open, and the process for booking a place.
After school, buses leave from the swimming pool car park at 3.50pm and there are staff on hand to ensure students are on the correct bus. There is also a Late Bus service at 5.15pm to Letchworth railway station and on to stops towards London, for those students taking part in co-curricular activities.
Food at St Chris
School Lunches
At St Chris we enjoy fresh, tasty vegetarian food for our school lunches. There is a hot choice, pasta bar, baked potato bar and soup option each day alongside salad bar, pudding and fruit. Weekly menus can be found on My School Portal.
Students eat lunch together in the Dining Hall, known as the IG (because many years ago it was used as an Indoor Gym!). Please let us know, via the Admissions Team, of any allergies or intolerances that your child may have. We are a nut-aware school.
Different year groups take it in turns to go into lunch first; the order can be checked on a list in the Courtyard. Each Company takes it in turn, once a term, to help clearing and tidying the Dining Hall (IG) after lunch.
School Lunches – Billing Information
If parents wish for their child to have a school lunch, they must:
• Email billings@stchris.co.uk.
• Once an email has been received, the Finance Team will then send an invoice for the termly lunch charge and your child will be added to our lunch list.
• Please see the school’s Fee Sheet for charges
Packed Lunches
Rather than having school lunches, students are welcome to bring a nut-free, vegetarian packed lunch which will be eaten alongside their friends in the Dining Hall (IG) or in the next-door Social Library picnic area.
Snacks
Students are welcome to bring in a healthy vegetarian snack from home to have during their morning break.
The School Tuck Shop, run by Sixth Form students operates at certain times during the year and students can use card or cash to purchase snacks. For more information on buses visit the link
Preparing for the School Day
Being organised is very important for students as they transition to the Senior School. Students move around the School and have a range of lessons, which often have different requirements in terms of books and equipment.
Most students quickly get the hang of this, but some need help at home with organisation of their school bag for the next day. To help, parents can see a copy of their child’s timetable, which is available on My School Portal. Further details about how to access My School Portal can be found in this booklet.
Students can see a copy of their timetable on Microsoft Teams (they will get the log in information when they start) or use their School Planner to add their timetable to if they prefer a printed version. (Students will be given a printed copy of their timetable when they start).
Personal Belongings
Lockers
Each student has a locker for which they will need to provide a padlock, where they can store their books, bags and personal belongings. Students have access to a locker during their break and lunchtime so that they do not need to carry their books or kit for around with them for the whole day. An equipment and kit list can be found later in this booklet.
Mobile Phones
In line with government guidance, St Chris limits mobile phone use during the school day, while also recognising their role in supporting learning, self-regulation, and digital citizenship. We also understand that phones can serve practical purposes—such as for travel, payment, or staying in touch with home—especially for students commuting by public transport.
For information on our Mobile Phone Policy please visit our website
Phone Pouches
in
Senior School and Sixth Form
From Year 7 onwards, students are issued a signalblocking phone pouch on their first day. Each morning, phones are locked into pouches during registration and remain so until 3.40pm. Unlocking stations are located around the school site for use at the end of the day. If students stay late for clubs or fixtures, they may use their phones during these times.
The initial pouch is included in school fees. Replacements, if needed, cost £30. Temporary pouches can be issued if one is forgotten; otherwise, if a student forgets to bring in their pouch, phones must be handed in to the Mulberry Building for the day.
In an emergency, staff in the Mulberry Building can unlock a student’s phone pouch.
Supporting Individual Needs
Phones can be accessed during the day under staff supervision in the Mulberry Building if needed to support students with SEND or SEMH. For students with medical needs (for example those who may need for their phone to monitor blood sugar or similar) alternative Velcro-seal pouches can be provided, and students are trusted to use their devices responsibly.
Trips
The phone policy applies on day trips. On residential trips, phones are collected upon arrival at the destination and stored securely.
If parents need to contact their child during the school day they can do so via the Pastoral Team or Reception at 01462 650850 or email hello@stchris.co.uk
For full details, please see our Mobile Phone Policy on the school website - www.stchris.co.uk/policies
Lost Property
Please ensure that all belongings are named, including shoes, coats, PE and swimming kit. Lost property is handed in to the Mulberry Building.
Communication between Home and School
There’s always something happening in the St Chris community, and we recognise that effective communication between home and school is essential in supporting social, emotional and academic progress. In addition to speaking with staff directly, St Chris uses the following methods of communication:
Where a member of staff needs to contact you directly they will use the email you have provided to the school.
We also share emergency information – such as school closures due to weather – via email. To aid this, please ensure that you keep your contact details up to date within My School Portal or by emailing hello@stchris.co.uk
An up-to-date staff list can be found on our website. All staff can be reached by email using the format: firstname.surname@stchris.co.uk.
Our guidelines are that staff will reply within two working days and within office hours except when on a residential trip (when they will be contactable throughout).
The Roundup
The Roundup is our weekly Friday newsletter that is sent to all parents/carers and contains news, notices and information about the week ahead.
For more information about the school’s communication methods and some guidelines for parents, please see our Communications and Social Media Guidelines.
My School Portal
My School Portal is a single secure platform that collates and displays all student information in one place. It is a mobile responsive website that works from desktop and Apple and Android mobile devices.
Ahead of starting at St Chris the Admissions Team will email you details about how you log in to My School Portal along with some helpful introductory videos.
Through the portal, you can view:
• Student timetable
• Attendance information
• School reports
• Weekly food menus
• View and subscribe to school calendar
• Book Parents’ Consultations
• Sign up for trips, visits and fixtures (via Evolve)
• Access ticket sales
• Share details in the parent directory
Evolve
Evolve is an online system the school uses for the planning, approval and management of trips, visits, sports fixtures and bookable co-curricular activities.
Once you start at St Chris you will be sent details of your Evolve account which can also be accessed directly through your My School Portal account as above.
Involve
Our Music Department uses Involve for the scheduling and booking of peripatetic music lessons. You will be sent your sign in Information for Involve if you sign up for music lessons. Please see later in this booklet for further information about booking music lessons.
Parent Surgeries
We welcome and encourage open dialogue between school and home. The Head (Rich Jones) holds weekly Parent Surgeries every Friday for any parent who would like to come in to speak with him – either face to face or via video call. To make an appointment please contact the Head’s PA via toni.warner@stchris.co.uk
You are also welcome to make an appointment with other members of the Leadership Team including: Nat Baker Deputy Head nat.baker@stchris.co.uk
Alistair Phillips
Assistant Head, Pastoral alistair.phillps@stchris.co.uk
Zoe Woodhouse
Inclusion Strategy Lead zoe.woodhouse@stchris.co.uk
Kirsten Rockey
Assistant Head, Inclusion kirsten.rockey@stchris.co.uk
Social Media
A great way to keep up to date with what is happening at St Chris is by following us on social media. We would love you to share our news and engage with our stories. You can also keep up to date by going to our news section on our website, stchris.co.uk
Safeguarding
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 their Company Adviser. However, if it is felt that this is not appropriate in the circumstances, please contact someone on the Safeguarding Team:
Academic Matters
On the first day, all students are issued with their personal timetable, school email and computer network account, and access details for Microsoft Teams. Parents can access their child’s timetable via My School Portal.
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Alistair Phillips
alistair.phillips@stchris.co.uk
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
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, Senior School and Boarding
Joe Sapsford
joe.sapsford@stchris.co.uk
Names of teachers are given on timetables and everyone is called by their first name - staff and students alike. The school runs on a two-weekly timetable with a different timetable for Week A and a Week B.
Information about the curriculum and subject breakdowns for each year group can be found on our website: www.stchris.co.uk/senior-curriculum
Queries relating to curriculum matters should be sent to the subject teacher, the Head of Department or to Nat Baker, the Deputy Head –nat.baker@stchris.co.uk
Parents’ Consultations, Reports and Homework
As part of keeping parents and carers informed about their child’s progress at school, we hold regular Parents’ Consultations and send academic reports, with the calendar of dates for these sent to parents at the start of the Autumn Term.
Parents’ Consultations
Parents’ Consultation dates are published at the start of each year and run as hybrid events: parents can choose whether to attend in person or online. For Year 7 (I Group) parents, the first Parents’ Consultation is with their Company Adviser to discuss how they are settling in. All other Parents’ Consultations are with subject teachers and parents can also choose to meet the Company Adviser or Head of Year. Parents book the appointments online via a link on My School Portal and you will receive an email confirming your bookings.
Academic Reports
Parents receive regular updates on progress and how their child is doing through written reports, which are sent to parents via My School Portal. Academic Reports are sent in the Autumn, Spring and Summer Terms and focus on the progress being made and next steps. The Company Adviser also includes a pastoral report, highlighting co-curricular activities and involvement in the wider life of St Chris.
Homework
Students are given regular homework as this plays an important role in developing study skills and reinforcing learning. In addition, good time-management, sensible patterns of working and independent learning become well-established and the norm.
St Chris uses Microsoft Teams as the main platform for setting homework via the Assignments function. Students will be shown how to log in to Microsoft Teams as part of their Induction process and can access their homework from here. Parents can use their child’s log in to see and subscribe to their homework calendar, or they can see a list of homework broken down by subject via My School Portal.
In Year 7 (I Group) students have a phased introduction of homework; Only core subjects set homework (English, mathematics and science) at the beginning of the year and then other subjects begin setting homework after October half term. Homework is set for up to 60 minutes per night (with up to 30 minutes per individual subject task.)
From Year 8 (II Group) onwards, homework is set for up to 90 minutes per night (with up to 45 minutes per individual subject task.) Find
Individualised Support
We are committed to ensuring all students fulfil their academic potential, understanding the importance of developing strategies and skills that help each student grow in intellectual confidence, build resilience and develop the ability to reflect, to enable them to reach their educational and individual ambitions.
We appreciate that learning is not a linear pathway, and some students may need more individualised support at certain times. We aim to equip our students with the skills and tools they need to enable them to achieve their full potential across the curriculum, becoming independent and confident learners.
Students throughout the school can access support, irrespective of need or ability and this is assessed on an individual basis. This extra level of provision may take the form of in-class support, small group immersion programmes, or 1-1 focused sessions where appropriate.
We work closely with parents and encourage communication and the sharing of ideas through meetings in school, email and telephone contact.
If your child has a Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND) our Inclusion Team work closely with our Admissions Team to support your child’s transition into St Chris and will be in touch directly ahead of them starting at school to ensure a smooth process.
To contact our Inclusion Team please contact Zoe Woodhouse, Inclusion Strategy Lead, via zoe.woodhouse@stchris.co.uk
Pastoral Care at St Chris
We pride ourselves on the individual attention that we give to our students, and the role of the Company Adviser is vital to this.
Companies and Company Adviser
Each student in Years 7 to 11 (I Group to V Group) is part of a Company (our name for a form group) which meets each day for registration and for group activities.
Companies are led by a Company Adviser. The Company Adviser is the “first port of call” for both parents and students for all day-to-day issues or questions, such as absence, late arrival, or even lost PE kit.
Students will be shown where their Company Room is on their Induction Day and should meet here at 8.40am to register and for the start of the school day.
During Company Time (which takes place from 10.55 to 11.15am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays), students take part in activities we feel are vital to their personal growth including parts of the citizenship and PSHE curriculum. Students also use Company Time to get involved in student voice, an important aspect of life at St Chris. Company Advisers also use this time to pass along messages to their Companies, and to discuss news and current affairs together.
Families are sent the name and contact details of their Company Adviser ahead of their start date. For any questions prior to this, please contact the Admissions Team who are best placed to direct your enquiry.
Heads of Year
Each year group has a Head of Year. Parents are always welcome to contact the Head of Year to discuss more serious matters, or even to request help with an issue that may need additional support beyond the day-today provision of the Company Adviser.
Social Spaces
We want students to feel at home anywhere on the St Chris site, and there are many areas for rest and relaxation during morning and lunch breaks.
We also have a number for dedicated Social Spaces to ensure that everyone has an area they can go to during breaks and lunchtime that is welcoming, positive and a place where they can relax and spend time – either taking part in an activity, catching up with friends, spending time quietly reading or eating lunch.
The two main rules within the spaces are that: Students need to look after the spaces and each other;
Outdoor games are for outdoors.
The Mulberry Building
The Mulberry Building is the pastoral and wellbeing hub at St Chris and is where all students can come to receive academic and pastoral support.
The pastoral team is based within the building and it’s a place where students can come (and parents can contact) if they have any questions or need advice. Students can drop in and ask any questions they have - whether their problems be big or small: such as a lost timetable or help with finding their next lesson.
Situated in the Courtyard, the Mulberry Building is a bright and welcoming space. It comprises of group areas and dedicated spaces available for students to meet with staff, complete independent work, use resources and work in teams. It also contains the school’s Library and is where Homework Club takes place after school.
The Mulberry Building also includes areas and resources available for students to use to help regulate their emotions or receive support with their mental health, and is home to our SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) Learning Support Assistant.
Students should also register in the Mulberry Building if they arrive late or need to sign out early, and it’s where lost property can be found.
STEER Trackingmental health and wellbeing
To support our students, we use STEER Tracking across the Junior and Senior School, from Years 3 – 12 (G Group to Lower Sixth), an evidence-based tool to measure, track and improve how each young person self-regulates four factors which are fundamental to wellbeing and good mental health.
STEER Tracking helps to identify hidden socialemotional risks that might otherwise go undetected. Teachers can then proactively target support for students who may need it, recognising that early intervention can help young people to develop healthy behaviours.
Each term, students from Year 3 (G Group) to Year 12 (Lower Sixth) will complete a STEER check in: a short series of questions that tracks how each student is steering or making choices in four key areas for healthy development.
We know that students’ ability to self-regulate can impact their academic progress, friendships, wellbeing, and mental health. Teachers use STEER as an additional tool, to help monitor the wellbeing and mental health of our students and support the excellent pastoral care at St Chris.
Further information will be sent to parents/carers at the start of term however if you would like to find out more now, please visit the STEER website: https://steer.education/
The Pastoral Team
Assistant Head (Pastoral Care)
Alistair Phillips
alistair.phillips@stchris.co.uk
Head of II Group (Year 8)
Lyn McGregor
lync.mcgregor@stchris.co.uk
Co-Curricular Activities in the Senior School
SEMH Lead
Kirsty Baker kirsty.baker@stchris.co.uk
Head of III Group (Year 9)
Sarah Williams
sarah.williams@stchris.co.uk
Attendance & Safeguarding Officer
Amelia Turvey amelia.turvey@stchris.co.uk
Head of IV Group (Year 10)
Jenny White jenny.white@stchris.co.uk
Head of I Group (Year 7)
Maggie Bilcliffe maggie.bilcliffe@stchris.co.uk
Head of V Group (Year 11)
Paul Thompson paul.thompson@stchris.co.uk
At St Chris, an important part of the school day is the opportunity for students to pursue their interests, and acquire new ones via a tapestry of co-curricular and enrichment opportunities.
The Opportunities Programme
The Opportunities (“Opps”) Programme at St Chris is an integral part of the curriculum which takes place for an hour each Thursday afternoon for all students in Years 7 to 12 (I Group to Lower Sixth).
The aim of Opps is to give students an opportunity to expand their horizons, learn and develop new skills and to discover new opportunities.
A key element of Opps is its vertical structure; students from all year groups can come together, learn from each other and form new friendships with others across the school who share similar interests.
It is also an opportunity for staff to share and inspire with their own interests and expertise beyond the constraints of the traditional curriculum. Opps are arranged in categories – mind, body and soul – and students are encouraged to choose a range of different experiences across the year.
OPPS
Themes
Service to oneself through discovering a new passion, taking on a new challenge and looking after our mental and physical wellbeing.
Service to our school community by taking on a leadership role, mentoring peers and passing on skills and knowledge.
Service to our local community by getting involved in environmental projects, supporting local causes and making links with other young people in the area.
Service to the global community by making connections, immersing ourselves in other cultures and advocating for human rights issues.
Clubs and Activities
There are a wide range of clubs and activities that take place each week in the Senior School at lunchtime and after school. Students are sent a list of clubs that they can take part in at the start of each term. Below is a selection of the recent clubs that have run. After School Clubs should be booked via our ‘Evolve’ booking system which can be found via My School Portal. You will be sent further information about setting up an account for Evolve at the start of the school year.
Examples of recent clubs:
• Animal Care
• Athletics
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Debate
• Duke of Edinburgh
• Dungeons and Dragons
• Football
• Gardening Club
• Improv Club
• Lego Masters
• Life Drawing
• Minecraft
• Netball
• Orchestra
• Pottery
• Pride Club
• Recycled Fashion
• Robotics
• Rock Band
• Rounders
• Rugby
• Swim Squad
• Table Tennis
• Yoga
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a youth achievement program, founded by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, that encourages young people to develop skills, overcome obstacles, and build confidence through various activities like volunteering, physical recreation, skills, and expeditions.
St Chris students are encouraged to undertake the Duke of Edinburg’s Award, and we offer the opportunity to complete the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels starting with Bronze in Year 9 (III Group)
Music Tuition
Instrumental and Vocal Lessons
There are a wide variety of instrumental and vocal music lessons available at St Chris run by a range of visiting music teachers.
Visit our website to find out more about which instruments are taught and to download the booking form.
For more information about music lessons and LAMDA
Performing Arts Tuition
We offer LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) lessons which are scheduled during the school day. If you would like to find more, or wish to book LAMDA lessons, please visit our website.
Trips and Visits
Late Summer Programme
All students from Year 7 to Year 10 (I Group to IV Group) take part in the St Chris Late Summer Programme (LSP) in the last week of the Summer Term. The week is an opportunity for challenge, adventure, learning outside the classroom and engaging in new and exciting experiences.
Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 take part in a trip with their year group, usually to an outward-bound themed residential to take part in activities that help bond the students together, as well as it being an opportunity to get to know staff better. In 2025, the LSP trips were to:
Year 7 (I Group) trip to Le Vosges and Metz (France
Year 8 (II Group) - Yorkshire
Year 9 (III Group) – Morzine (France)
Students in Year 10 (IV Group) also take part in activities during this week and can select from a series of residentials which they can attend with students in Year 12 (Lower Sixth)
In 2025 the LSP options for Year 10 included:
Geneva Switzerland: STEM trip to Geneva including a tour of CERN and the Large Hadron Collider, the Science Museum, Botanical Gardens and Swiss Plasma Centre as well as a cruise on Lake Geneva and visiting some of the city sights.
Loughborough Elite Athlete Centre UK: Students follow a programme of workshops and practical sessions at the Loughborough Elite Athletes Centre ranging from body conditioning, speed lab, 5* gym sessions, use of the Olympic swimming pool, football and netball with a professional coach, athletics sessions on the professional track, beach volleyball, wheelchair basketball and lots more.
Camping Adventure UK: UK based camping adventure with an outdoor pursuits/hiking style focus.
Naples Italy: City trip with food and culture focus including pizza and gelato making workshops, as well as visits place to where food is produced such as an olive grove and a mozzarella producer, and a trip to Pompeii.
Boston USA: Golf tour for students who already play golf to a high level, or those who are keen to improve their game. Includes Boston tour, watching a Red Sox game, daily golf clinics and 3 x 18-hole rounds on a championship course. Resort access to indoor waterpark, climbing wall, hiking trail and an ice rink.
Lundy Island UK: A week of water-based activities, including wild swimming, snorkelling with seals and basking shark watching.
For students in Years 7 to 9, the cost for LSP is divided into three equal payments and charged for at the beginning of each term in the main fees invoice.
For students in Year 10, the LSP cost varies depending on the trip chosen, and will be communicated to parents in the Autumn Term.
Other Trips
There are a range of trips throughout the academic year, including compulsory curriculum day trips (for example to an art gallery, design lecture or theatre trip), but also optional “extra” trips, some of which take place each year and some of which alternate annually.
Trips may be offered to the whole school or to specific year groups. Recent trips have included visits to Iceland and Borneo, and also sporting trips for football, netball, swimming, kayaking, skiing, climbing and tennis.
Parents will receive letters from the subject teacher regarding curriculum trips (including the cost which is added to the next invoice), and from the school regarding optional trips.
If you have any questions about co-curricular activities, please contact:
Emma Roskilly
Assistant Head (Co-Curricular) emma.roskilly@stchris.co.uk
School Sport, PE and Games
The St Chris PE Department aims to give every child the chance to enjoy a carousel of sporting, creative and fitness activities.
There is a focus on inclusivity and fitness, and the benefits of sport’s wider impact on a child’s development in terms of teamwork, resilience, wellbeing and leadership.
Teaching ensures students are teamed with other similarly experienced students; they are also all taught in mixed gender groups so that they have access to a broad range of sports, and are not funnelled based on gender.
In lessons, a year group will develop their skills in team sports such as rugby, football and netball as well as improving in racket sports, aesthetic activities and experiencing different methods to improve fitness.
Students also take part in associated fixtures in sports such as netball, football, swimming, basketball, cricket and more. Parents will be informed about team selection and are asked for consent via Evolve.
In Year 7 (I Group), students take part in two PE/games lessons per week and one of swimming. In Year 8 (II Group) students take part in two PE/games lessons per week and one per fortnight of swimming. From Years 9 to 11 (III to V Group) students have two lessons of PE a week and swimming forms part of the PE/ Games rotation (and starts to focus more on aquatic activities); so students have half a term of swimming, among the other sports offered.
All students are expected to attend practical Physical Education, Games and Swimming lessons with correct kit. Please see the section on Equipment below for further information.
If a student is unable to participate in a PE lesson, parents should inform the Company Adviser by email.
If you have any questions about sport at St Chris, please contact Lyn McGregor, Head of PE: lync.mcgregor@stchris.co.uk
Boarding at St Chris
Boarding at St Chris offers flexibility, community, and an ideal environment for balancing academic focus with social and co-curricular life. Whether you choose to stay for the full week or just a night or two, boarding can add ease and rhythm to your Sixth Form experience.
We offer three boarding options:
Full Boarding – Seven nights a week
Weekly Boarding – Five nights a week (usually Sunday to Friday)
Flexi Boarding – One to three nights a week
Boarding is particularly popular among Sixth Formers who travel long distances or who want more time to study, participate in activities, or simply enjoy the independence of living on campus during the week.
Booking and Availability
Due to high demand, boarding spaces are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference given to students opting for Full or Weekly Boarding. If you’re interested in regular boarding, it’s a good idea to book your preferred nights at the start of each term.
We do also offer Flexi Boarding with 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
Who to Contact
To find out more about boarding contact Joe Sapsford, Boarding Lead via joe.sapsford@stchris.co.uk
More information about boarding life at St Chris can be found on our website: stchris.co.uk/boarding
Clothing and Equipment List
Equipment List
Please ensure that students bring the following items into school each day from the start of term.
School bag - a small rucksack or similar
Reusable water bottle
Small padlock for locker –ideally a padlock with a key
Pencil case containing:
Black or blue handwriting pens
Pencils and rubber
Coloured pencils / felt tips
30cm ruler
Highlighters
Small pair of safety scissors
Glue stick
Scientific calculator
recommended: Classwiz fx-83GT CW
Geometry set including set square, set of compasses (Year 10 (IV Group) only)
Text and exercise books are provided by subject departments within the school.
Clothing
There is no uniform at St Christopher School, but clothes must be appropriate for a school environment, clean and mended. Camouflage and military-type clothing are not allowed. Hoods, hats and caps should be taken off while inside except those worn for religious or cultural reasons.
For PE / Games, jewellery must be removed to a safe standard. Long hair should always be tied back and nails need to be sufficiently short to prevent injury to self and others.
PE Kit
All students are expected to attend PE and Games lessons and any sports fixtures they take part in with the correct kit. This ensures their own and others’ safety, as well as enabling students to participate to their full potential.
St Chris PE kit is available through our suppliers, SWI; www.swischoolwear.co.uk
PE kit list (available via SWI)
Performance SS Training Top (fitted or loose fit)
Performance Training Pants or Shorts/or Skort
Performance Tracksuit Top (full zip or ¼ zip)
ProTec Rugby Top
Performance Coolmax Socks (football/rugby socks)
Base layer (a plain white version is available via SWI, or students may wear their own)
Additional equipment (not from official suppliers)
Football boots (plastic studs only) for football/rugby Well-fitting astros or trainers which give effective grip and support for all other sports (not fashion shoes)
Gum shield for hockey and rugby. These can be purchased through the PE Department for £3 Shin pads for football and hockey. Any type allowed.
Swimming kit
• A swimsuit or trunks – can be any colour. We support students’ confidence in the water and allow a wide variety of styles. Please see the images to for examples of what students can wear in swimming lessons.
• swim hat (preferably silicone): this is essential for taking part
• towel
• goggles
• optional rash vest/t-shirt to wear in addition to costume/trunks
Please ensure all items of PE and swimming kit are named.
What do I need?
Normal St Chris PE kit is required for all PE/Games lessons, alongside some additional equipment for specific team sports (see table below). Netball, rounders and cricket do not need any additional kit.
SPORT EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
Football
• Football boots
• St Chris Sports Socks
• Shin pads
Hockey · Football boots/Astros
· St Chris Sports Socks
· Shin pads
· Mouthguard Rugby · Football boots
· St Chris Sports Socks
· Shin pads
· Mouthguard
· St Chris Rugby top
Hockey · As above
Health
St Chris has a School Nurse who needs up-to-date medical information for your child. To ensure we have the correct details, please share any updates with the nurse as soon as possible, either by emailing nurse@stchris.co.uk or passing them on via the Admissions Team or Company Adviser.
Injuries and Accidents
If a student has an accident or sustains an injury at school, dependent on the severity you may receive a Medical Tracker email notification. In some cases, the School Nurse may need to assess the injury and will update you accordingly. Depending on the nature of the injury, it may be passed on to the Operations Manager for further investigation and reporting.
If your child sustains a head bump or injury, we will contact you depending on the severity of the situation. In some cases, we may ask you to collect your child and seek a medical review. Alternatively, you will receive a notification through the Medical Tracker system, which will include details of the injury, the treatment provided, and any follow-up instructions, such as how to monitor for concussion and when to seek further medical attention. If your child remains in school, they will be given a head injury alert card to show teachers for the rest of the day, and staff will be informed to ensure close monitoring.
Chronic Health Conditions
(Diabetes, Epilepsy, Sickle Cell Disease etc.)
Parents/guardians should notify the School Nurse upon enrolment or following a diagnosis of any chronic health conditions their child may have. The School Nurse will collaborate with parents/ guardians and relevant hospital teams to develop and maintain Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs) tailored to their needs. The School Nurse will oversee the administration of medication, and will provide healthrelated training and support to staff.
Anaphylaxis
For students with known Anaphylaxis, parents/ guardians should provide two labelled Adrenaline Auto Injectors (AAIs), which their child should keep with them at all times. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure that the AAIs are in date. Additionally, an Allergy Action Plan must be completed for any student with anaphylaxis.
Kit
Asthma
For all students with an Asthma diagnosis, parents/ guardians must provide a labelled inhaler that their child must carry with them at all times. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure the inhaler is in date and to keep the school informed of any changes to their child’s condition. An Asthma card must also be completed for each student with a diagnosis.
Illness at School
Students who feel ill during a lesson should speak to their Company Adviser or to the member of staff teaching them. If required, the student will be seen by the School Nurse, and parents/carers will be contacted if necessary and ask for them to be collected.
If your child has suffered from vomiting and/or diarrhoea, as a general principle, they should be regarded as potentially infectious unless there is good evidence to suggest otherwise. As per Public Health England advice and our school policy, your child should not attend school until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped and they are well enough to return. If your child has a high temperature, please keep them home from school until it subsides naturally, without the use of medication.
Medication
Prescription medication can be administered at school when necessary, but parents/guardians must complete the ‘Administration of Medication to Students: Parental Request Form,’ which is available from the School Nurse. The medication must be in its original pharmacy-labelled container, clearly showing the student’s name, date of birth, and full prescription details. Loose tablets or repackaged medication (e.g., in envelopes or unlabelled containers) will not be accepted or administered.
The School Nurse, or other designated staff, can administer over-the-counter medication if needed, provided a medication consent form is on file. This form is given to all parents of new students during the admissions process. For senior school students, if there is any uncertainty about medication taken earlier in the day or if the consent form cannot be accessed, the school will contact parents for clarification.
Counselling
St Chris offers a counselling service for students, with appointments that can be scheduled during the school day. If you would like to discuss this, please get in touch with your child’s Head of Year or the School Nurse.
Our Parent Body
All parents and guardians are automatically enrolled as members of the Parents’ Circle – our name for the PTA.
The St Chris Parents’ Circle has a long history within the School having played an active role since 1920. The group provides a welcoming environment where parents can get to know one another, share ideas, socialise and have fun! They also run fundraising initiatives for their chosen charities.
Throughout the year the Parents’ Circle organise several events, including quiz nights, Easter egg hunts and support the Summer Fair (St Christopalooza).
Such occasions provide a school-wide inclusive environment to get to know other parents and support the sense of community that St Chris provides.
Each class has its own Parents’ Circle Class Rep –another parent at the School. When a student starts at the school we ask their parent/carer if they would like to be put in touch with their Class Rep. The Class Rep usually creates a WhatsApp group to share information with their class. These groups are an efficient way to stay up to date and enable social engagements to be planned.
For more information about the Parents’ Circle, or if you have any questions, comments or suggestions please email parentscircle@stchris.co.uk
Frequently
Asked Questions
Please find below answers to some additional questions you may have. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us. Before your child starts at school please contact Sarah in the Admissions Team via admissions@stchris.co.uk.
Once you have started at St Chris, your child’s Company Adviser is your first port of call. We aim to respond to all emails within two working days.
What do I do if I have concerns about my child?
If you have any worries, questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Company Adviser or their Head of Year in the first instance. They are experienced in supporting students through the transition to a new school both in terms of their general wellbeing, changing friendship patterns and academic progress.
Most friendship patterns sort themselves out naturally without adults getting involved, and students form lasting, happy relationships. However, parents should contact the Company Adviser if their child becomes unhappy or withdrawn, or if they are struggling to settle in, and students should also feel free to speak to their Adviser at any time. Parents should also contact the Company Adviser if they suspect that behaviour towards their child may be deliberately unkind.
Alistair Phillips, Assistant Head (Pastoral Care) and the Heads of Year are also responsible for supporting all students within their care and can be contacted directly by email.
Who do I need to tell if my child needs to leave for a medical appointment?
If parents would like to request their child miss school for half a day or less for a medical appointment, this request can be made by the parent to their child’s Company Adviser or Head of Year.
If a student has an appointment during the school day, they need to sign out and back in again with the Pastoral Team in the Mulberry Building. Parents can come to the Main Reception to meet them.
What do I do if my child is going to be late to school or is off ill?
If a student is ill and going to be absent from school, has a medical appointment, or is running late, parents must email attendance@stchris.co.uk and copy in the student’s Company Adviser, before 9.00am
Absence can also be notified by My School Portal which will inform the Attendance and Safeguarding Officer.
Lateness should be avoided whenever possible; it disrupts a child’s learning routine and the school day as a whole.
Late arrivals should report to the Mulberry Building to register.
How do I request time off during term time for my child?
If parents would like their child to miss school for any reason other than illness or a medical appointment, they need to request permission in advance from the Head by emailing head@stchris.co.uk
Leave can also be requested via My School Portal.
What happens if my child misses the school bus on the way home?
Before 5.30pm (5.00pm on a Friday) students who miss their school bus should go to the Mulberry Building, where there will be a member of staff on Late Duty. Parents/carers will then be contacted to make alternative arrangements.
My child wants to take part in after school activities but normally gets the bus?
There is a Late Bus which leaves school at 5.15pm which can be booked for students wanting transport to the train station or into London.
For more information about bus routes and prices, or to book a space on the bus, please visit the website of our School transport provider Zeelo: https://app.zeelo.co/rides/st-christopher-school
How do I visit the School to see a member of staff?
If you wish to meet with a member of staff, please contact your child’s Company Adviser in advance, to arrange a convenient appointment.
All visitors (including parents) must report to the Senior School Reception on arrival at the School, where they will be signed in and given a visitor’s badge and made aware of our safeguarding and fire procedures.
My child is going to be boarder, will you send me more information?
We will be sending further information about life in the boarding house, packing lists, arrival and departure and induction details in the Summer Term.
Where can I find our more information about the PSHE curriculum?
Personal, Social, Health and Economics Education (PSHE) is delivered in weekly lessons, following a programme created in line with the PSHE Association. This supports our approach to wellbeing at St Chris, emphasising the importance of developing the knowledge, skills and attributes needed to make safe, healthy and informed choices, now and throughout our lives.
Each year, we explore a range of topics under the three themes; Health & Wellbeing, Careers and Finance and Relationships.
These are taught in a spiral curriculum, building in an age-appropriate way throughout the students’ journey at St Chris. Lessons encourage students to reflect on topical issues and develop social skills through discussion.
Signposting to support is also a key element of PSHE so that children and young people know how to seek appropriate help with difficulties. Further information about PSHE and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) can be found in our policies on the school website and through regular newsletters which update parents on what we have been learning about.
What is the Silence?
The Silence is a tradition at St Chris where the staff and students take a moment together to pause, think and listen. It’s an important part of our Morning Talks and school meetings.
Can I bring my dog to pick my child up from school?
Other than guide or hearing dogs, dogs are not allowed in the School buildings. Please keep dogs on a lead at all times and under your direct control, and be aware that some of our students are scared of dogs or may be allergic to them.
Can I book additional swimming lessons for my child and can our family use the pool?
Parents can book additional swimming lessons through the St Chris Swim School; these take place after school hours and at the weekend. You can find further information on our website: https://www.stchris.co.uk/swim-school
We also run regular weekly Family Swim and Adult Swim sessions for those families who have a child at St Chris. Further information is sent out in The Roundup at the start of each term.
What are the School’s bank details?
Account Name St Christopher School (Letchworth) Limited
Account Number 90800643
Sort Code 20-41-38
The bank details are the same for all payments to the School, so please include a reference for your payment e.g. SURNAME FEES or SURNAME TRIP.
Where do I find the school’s policies?
A comprehensive list of our policies and procedures can be found on the school website: www.stchris.co.uk/policies
Alternatively please contact the Head’s PA, who can send you a digital or hard copy: toni.warner@stchris.co.uk
How do I make a complaint?
The open climate of St Chris encourages parents, along with students and staff, to voice their concerns. Usually, discussion of the matter allays or removes the worry without the need for formal procedures.
All complaints are carefully considered, and it is usually helpful for there to be a discussion at an early stage about the issue, the procedures and the possible outcomes. In the first instance, please contact the Head: head@stchris.co.uk
A copy of our Complaints Policy can be found on our website. www.stchris.co.uk/about-us/policies/
How
do I contact the Governors?
The Chair of the Governors may be contacted in confidence by email at alison.burrows@stchris.co.uk or c/o the main school address: Chair of Governors, St Christopher School, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3JZ.
Key Contacts
A full staff list can be found on the website: 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
Absence Reporting
+44 (0) 1462 650 850 hello@stchris.co.uk stchris.co.uk
+44 (0) 1462 650 850 attendance@stchris.co.uk
Head Rich Jones head@stchris.co.uk
Deputy Head Nat Baker nat.baker@stchris.co.uk
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Assistant Head (Pastoral Care)
Alistair Phillips alistair.phillips@stchris.co.uk
Assistant Head (Co-curricular)
Emma Roskilly emma.roskilly@stchris.co.uk
Assistant Head (Student Development & Wellbeing)
Lizzie Hedderson lizzie.hedderson@stchris.co.uk
Inclusion Strategy Lead
Zoe Woodhouse zoe.woodhouse@stchris.co.uk
Assistant Head, Inclusion
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Kirsten Rockey kirsten.rockey@stchris.co.uk
School Nurse nurse@stchris.co.uk
Boarding Lead
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Joe Sapsford joe.sapsford@stchris.co.uk
Chief Operating Officer
Simon Holmes simon.holmes@stchris.co.uk
Please contact Simon with questions about any aspect of the running of the school not related to teaching and learning for example catering, buses or school fees.
Admissions Team
Sarah Davis admissions@stchris.co.uk
Sarah remains your main contacts before you start with us. After joining, your main contact will be your child’s Company Adviser.
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).
Chair of Governors Alison Burrows alison.burrows@stchris.co.uk
Parents’ Circle (PTA) parentscircle@stchris.co.uk