New Children's Questions Answered
Q. What is a Term?
There are three terms in a year, each with a half-term when the school closes. Half-term varies from 4 - 8 days. Terms are about 11 weeks long on average.
Q. How will I know what to do when I arrive?
Easy! The Timetable you will receive before you arrive sets it out clearly, and a child, your Shadow, has been asked to look after you for the first few days. He or she has also been asked to write to you, and you must write back! Your Shadow may not be in the same dormitory or class but will be with you in free time to show you around. The teachers and other children will also help you.
Q. What do I call the teachers?
You will soon know the names of your teachers and there is nearly always somebody nearby to ask if you aren't sure. You should call any of the male teachers "Sir". The lady teachers prefer to be called by their names, like "Mrs Peters".Q When can I read?
Whenever you want, wherever you want .... or very nearly! You may read in the Library, Form Room, Specialist Teacher room, your dormitory or sitting under a tree. You will be expected to read for half an hour before bedtime. This time is for Scripture Reading also. Day children are also expected to read for half an hour each evening, and parental co-operation is welcomed here. Records of what you read are kept by your English teacher who will also hear you read aloud regularly, especially if you are in the F, E or D Forms (Years 3, 4 and 5). You are expected to have a book by your bed and also in your briefcase.Q. What happens if I don't like the food?
I should be very surprised!! At every main meal there is a wide choice. For example, at lunch there is a choice of at least two hot meals, one of which is vegetarian, as well as a more adventurous "Chef's Special", and an impressive array of salads which include cold meats, cheese, fish, hard-boiled eggs, mixed pastas and assorted salad vegetables. Cooked and salad vegetables are always available and you will be expected to have some every day. There is also a choice of puddings as well as fresh fruit and yoghurt. If there is anything you are unhappy about or you need special food or diets, please let the Head of Boarding know.
Lower School Lunch is between 1230 and 1300. The younger children sit in class groups with their class teacher and other adults supervising the tables. Seniors come in at intervals from 1300 onwards and may choose where to sit. You must leave the two green chairs at each table free for members of staff to join you!
You are encouraged to eat what you have on your plate, including your vegetables, particularly if you chose it from the salad bar. You are also expected to use good table manners like sitting up straight and using your cutlery properly and passing things to other children.
Q. What can I bring to school?
Anything ... except a tiger. Well, almost!
However, most children leave most things at home initially as there are many new experiences to enjoy. After the first term and preferably in the Summer term, with permission, a BICYCLE may be brought if you are in the D forms (Year 5) or above, although use is limited to the woods and paths, so a robust rather than an expensive bike is recommended. Please name it clearly and bring a padlock. All children may bring ROLLER BLADES, SCOOTERS and SKATEBOARDS.
A PET may be brought if you are in the D forms or above, such as a rabbit, gerbil, mouse or hamster but cages, food, water trough, shavings etc. are all required. The Master i/c Pets gives advice and may purchase items for you, but remember pets must be taken home in the holidays and at Half-term. It might be better not to bring a pet to school when you first arrive.
There is no need for TOYS , for there is much to do at school. They can be brought, if required, but avoid expensive ones. 'Game Boys' are not permitted, as too much time is wasted with them, nor are DVDs, videos or computer games. You can bring items of sports equipment such as footballs, netballs and rugby balls.
A WATCH - please make sure it is named by engraving or sewing on a name-tape in a loop. It should not be an expensive one.
COMICS may be ordered as long as their content is satisfactory. Inappropriate "teenage" magazines are not allowed.
BOOKS may be brought (clearly named) but we have a very well-stocked library, class and boarding house libraries, a termly Book Fair and a Book Shop. Children of faiths other than Christianity should bring a bible relevant to their faith. This is particularly important for boarders.
Q. Can I have an e-mail address?
Yes. Mr Dawson will give you your own address if you would like one as well as a password which allows you to use any school computer. There is a small termly charge for the use of an e-mail account, although other computer use and (restricted) Internet access are free.
Q. Where do I keep my toys and possessions?
If you are Boarder you might like to bring a play box (sometimes known as a tuck box). We find Day Children don't need them. Your name should be clearly visible on the outside. This is your private property and no-one may look in it except in your presence. ( The measurements in the picture are approximate !!). It should be lockable. You keep one key (labelled) in a safe place. The other labelled key should be given to your Matron to be kept in the Day Room as a spare.
Q. What are likely to be my problems?
We hope you won't have many! Most children think of what they can do, not what they can't.
However, if you think you have a problem, see anyone you wish: Tutor, Houseparent, Teacher, Mrs Dix, Matrons, Headmaster, Dormitory Captain .. or indeed, a friend in your class or dorm.
A problem may be, for example, that you find one subject especially difficult. If that is true, the teacher will notice and provide you with special help. Always tell a teacher straight away if you don't understand anything.
You should always tell your Tutor if you are worried about anything. If you ever have something especially difficult to deal with, the school has two Independent Visitors. These are grown-ups who know the school well but who do not work here. You can write a note to them and put it in the special letterbox. They will fix a time when you can meet to talk over any worries. We also have a school doctor. Since he is a man, you are allowed to ask to see a lady doctor if you prefer.
You may have lost your clothing, perhaps because it has not been named firmly enough or because you failed to put it away. If you cannot find it after a good look, tell your Tutor or a Matron. Your main difficulty, however, will probably be trying to find time to do all the things you want to do! There are so many exciting challenges you may not be able to do them all.