Box Hill School Boarding House Handbook by Box Hill School

TERM DATES

AUTUMN TERM 2024

Tuesday 3rd September

Wednesday 4th September

New Boarders arrive by 8pm

Induction Day for new students and ALL of Year 12

Existing Boarders arrive by 8pm

Thursday 5th September Day students arrive by 8.15am

Thursday 17th October

Sunday 3rd November

Half Term - 4.30pm finish

Boarders return by 8pm

Monday 4th November Day students arrive by 8.15am

Friday 13th December

End of term - 12pm finish

SPRING TERM 2025

Tuesday 7th January

Boarders return by 8pm

Wednesday 8th January Day students arrive by 8.15am

Friday 14th February

Sunday 23rd February

Half Term - 4.30pm finish

Boarders return by 8pm

Monday 24th February Day students arrive by 8.15am

Thursday 3rd April

End of term - 12pm finish

SUMMER TERM 2025

Tuesday 22nd April

Boarders return by 8pm

Wednesday 23rd April Day students arrive by 8.15am

Friday 23rd May Half Term - 4.30pm finish

Sunday 1st June

Boarders return by 8pm

Monday 2nd June Day students arrive by 8.15am

Thursday 3rd July

End of term - 12pm finish

WELCOME

Welcome to Box Hill School Boarding; your ‘home away from home’.

This booklet acts as a guide to the Houses, the House Parents who run them, as well as an A-Z of all things Box Hill Boarding.

We are hugely proud of our diverse boarding community, which truly reflects the Round Square IDEALS at the heart of Box Hill School. We have students from 40 different nationalities throughout all our year groups and boarding houses.

We strive to create a homely environment in the House. We want you to feel that you receive the encouragement and support that you need to reach your full potential. For all Houses there is very much an attitude of ‘our doors are always open’ and we are there for anything.

Our aim is to develop empowered and proactive young people, and to foster shared visions and goals. The boarding mindset embraces positive reinforcement, the celebration of success and a caring attitude.

Boarding at Box Hill School will enable you to make excellent progress in your educational, personal, social, and cultural development and we cannot wait to embark on that journey with you.

We look forward to welcoming you,

Mrs Claire Ellis, Assistant Head (Pastoral and Boarding)

INTRODUCTION TO THE HOUSES

Atwood House (Mrs Cowie & Mr Patrick)

Opened by HRH The Princess Royal, Atwood House was named after Box Hill School’s second Headmaster, Dr Rodney Atwood. This purpose built two-storey house is for senior boarders, accommodating 20 Year 13 pupils. The bedrooms occupy two separate floors of the House with five twin bedrooms and en-suite facilities on each floor. This arrangement acts as a half-way house between school and the independent living our older students enjoy in higher education.

Burmester House (Mr and Mrs Cook & Miss Irwin)

This Grade II listed 18th century house is used as a boarding house for senior students. The rooms provide comfortable accommodation in this lovely period house.

Burmester House is full of character. It is a fun and welcoming house team that values inclusivity and kindness to create an atmosphere where all Burmester girls can thrive and enjoy being part of the boarding community at Box Hill. We have a strong sense of purpose and encourage our girls to break glass ceilings and aim high, no matter which path life takes them down.

In all, 39 weekly and full time boarders can be cared for in the Burmester main house and associated accommodations. In addition, Burmester benefits from a large, well-maintained garden which is used by the students during the summer months for studying, socialising and relaxing.

Constantine House (Mr Pritchett & Ms McCarthy)

Constantine House was the first purpose-built boarding house at Box Hill School. It was opened by our Patron, King Constantine of Greece, hence the name. Constantine House also has its own computer room and is boarding house which is home to approximately 29 boarders. It’s comfortable

and well-equipped twin or triple rooms are home to students for weekly and full boarding.

Although there is Wi-Fi throughout the house, there is also a computer room with a number of desktop computers. The large common room is an ideal place for students to socialise and chill out, including playing pool or on the house PlayStation.

Dalewood House (Mrs Monk & Ms Ciechanowska)

Dalewood House is the School’s main building. Boarding facilities provide a home from home for junior boarders and are located on the top floors of the historic Victorian building which dates back to 1883. Much sympathetic refurbishment and updating over time has created homely and comfortable rooms with personal study facilities. The House accommodates 22 students.

Old Cottage (Mr Baker & Mr Nicora)

Old Cottage is a Grade II listed house with parts dating back to the early 17th century. First used for boarders in 1963, the house oozes character and history.

This senior boarding house accommodates 27 boarders. Most are twin rooms, although there are some single occupancy rooms for the more senior students. It also has a large, well maintained garden, which is a popular place to relax and study in the summer evenings and at weekends.

Ralph House (Mr Todd & Mr Freeman)

Ralph is a senior boarding house. It can accommodate 30 weekly and full boarders. This single storey purpose built house is quirky with an attractive cedar clad exterior and provides comfortable living accommodation. There is an inner quad area used for study, BBQs and relaxing during good weather.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A BOARDER

Typical boarding week (Monday – Friday)

7am Wake up · 7.20am – 7.50am Breakfast in the Dining Hall (choice of hot and cold food available) · 7.50am After breakfast students return to houses and continue getting ready for school · 8.15am Start of the school day, Registration in Tutor Rooms · 8.40am – 10.30am Lessons · 10.30am – 10.50am Break · 10.50am – 12.40pm Lessons

12.40pm - 1:45pm

- 4.30pm MORNING EVENING

10.50am - 12.40pm

- 10.50am

12.40pm Lunch in the Dining Hall (choice of hot and cold food available) · 1.45pm Registration · 1.45pm – 4.30pm Lessons · 4.30pm School finishes, boarders can return to houses to get changed · 4.30pm All boarders to the dining hall for Tea (snack and drink) · 4.30pm onwards Various daily activities, visit friends in other boarding houses, go to the Sports Centre, Gym, Music Room and Dance Studio to practice or simply enjoy quiet time

of the school day 4.30pm

6.30pm Evening meal in the Dining Hall · 7.00pm Prep in House (Years 7-11) · 7.30pm Prep in House (Sixth Form) · 9.15pm Registration in houses (Years 7 – 11) · 9.30pm Registration in houses (Sixth Form) · 9.30pm Bedtime, quiet time and reading (Years 7-9) · 9.45pm Bedtime, quiet time and reading (Years 1011) · 10.30pm Bedtime, quiet time and reading (Sixth Form)

6.30pm Bedtime 9.30pm - 10.30pm

7pm - 9pm Yrs 7-11 7.30pm - 9.15pm Yrs 12-13

A WEEKEND IN THE LIFE OF A BOARDER

Saturday

9am Breakfast in the Dining Hall (optional with choice of hot and cold food available) · 10am – 12pm Prep and quiet time in Houses · 12.30pm – 6.30pm free time, opportunity for boarding students to: check out and go off-site with friends to explore the local area and enjoy local attractions, Enjoy quiet time, Visit friends in other boarding houses · 6.30pm Evening meal in the Dining Hall · 7pm Evening activities in houses · 10pm – 11.30pm Bedtime, quiet time and reading (bedtime staggered based on age of students)

Free Time and Boarding Trips

12.30pm - 6.30pm

Sunday

9am Breakfast in the Dining Hall (optional with choice of hot and cold food available) · 9am – 12pm Free time/quiet time · 12.30pm – 6.30pm free time, opportunity for boarding students to: Enjoy one of the arranged weekly boarding trips, Check out and go off-site with friends to explore the local area and enjoy local attractions, Go to the Sports Centre, Gym, Music Room and Dance Studio to practice or the onsite cafe, Enjoy quiet time, Visit friends in other boarding houses · 6.30pm Evening meal in the Dining Hall · 7pm Free time / Evening activities in houses · 10pm – 11.30pm Bedtime, quiet time and reading (bed time staggered based on age of students)

6.30pm Evening Activities or Free Time

7.30pm - 9pm Bedtime and Quiet Time 10pm - 11.30pm

CAMPUS MAP AND BOARDING HOUSES

5. Dining Room

6. McComish Hall

7. Music School

8. Climbing wall, high ropes and caving

9. Sports Centre

10. Multi Use Games

12. Atwood House

13. The Hub

Ralph House

Dance Studio

Medical Centre 17. Burford

18. Careers, ILC and Computer Science

19. Sixth Form Centre/ Winthrop Young Building

20. Maths and English (ground and first floor)

21. Burmester House

22. Larg Cottage

23. Allotments 24. Old Cottage

25. School Shop

Drama Studio

The Quad (Business, Geography, History)

Science Block

Weatherall Cottage (Learning Support)

Art, Fashion and Textiles Block

Jubilee Building

Juniper

Constantine House

Bursary

Pavilion

UNIFORM

Appearance Standards

Hair should be kept tidy. In years 7-9 long hair should be neatly tied back. Unnaturally coloured or excessively styled hair that draws attention to the wearer is not allowed. The Headmaster is the sole judge of this standard.

Jewellery may not be worn apart from a watch and small, stud earrings – no hoops.

Make-up is not allowed for girls in Years 7 – 9 and in Years 10 - 11 it must be worn discreetly. Only clear nail polish is allowed. No artificial eyelashes or nails.

Girls’ and Boys’ Uniform List Years 7 - 11

Blazer*

Skirt or grey trousers (x 2 for boarders)*

Green sweater*

White long or short sleeve blouse, not fitted, revere collar (Girls) - x 3 for boarders

White long or short-sleeved shirts (Boys) - x3 for boarders)

School tie (Boys)*

Tights (Girls): black/skin colour

White ankle socks (Girls)

Grey socks (Boys)

Black Leather ‘normal school shoes’ (not trainers, sneakers, suede or canvas, boots or Vans/Converse style)

Coat – should be dark in colour (blue or black), solid colour, no trim, no fringes, no fur

Science/Art overall

SPORT AND ACTIVITIES KIT

Black PE/games shirt*

Black zip neck mid layer*

Black PE skort or shorts*

White PE socks*

Green games socks*

Black tracksuit trousers* (2 options

*Available online from www.unismart.co.uk

available)

Netball dress (Girls - compulsory for netball team players only and will be provided by the school)*

Black/green reversible games shirt (~Boys - compulsory for rugby team players only)*

Cricket shirt, trousers and box (Cricket players only)*

Gum shield

Shin pads

Thirds polo shirt (to be purchased when Thirds are allocated at the start of term)*

Appropriate trainers

Games bag*

OPTIONAL EXTRAS FOR SPORT

Black base layer top. (base layer should only be worn underneath the games shirt)

Black leggings. (leggings should only be worn underneath a skort)

Black hoody*

Waterproof tracksuit top*

OPTIONAL FOR LEISURE ONLY

Green or grey leisure hoody*

Fleece lined jacket*

Scarf - purple and green

Pre Sixth Form (1 Year iGCSE) students can opt for either Years 7 - 11 or Sixth Form list

Girls’ and Boys’ Uniform List Sixth Form (Years 12 & 13)

• Shirts (Boys): plain white or of discreet, pastel colour, with collars. Only Y13 students may wear subtle pin stripes.

• Blouses (Girls): plain white or of discreet, pastel colour. Only Y13 may wear subtle pin stripes.

• White shirt/blouse for formal occasions.

• Sixth Form tie (purchased from School shop). Own choice of tie for some formal dinners/events.

• Dark business suit (dark grey, dark navy, black or charcoal) of conventional design or smart tailored, full length trousers (not black jeans, leggings, black sweat pants, anything skin-tight or of shiny material) with matching jacket of conventional pattern. Jackets to have buttons, not zips. Tweed is not allowed.

• Trouser or skirt business suit (dark grey, dark navy, black or charcoal) of conventional design or trousers/skirt with matching jacket. Skirts to be knee length with straight hemlines. Trousers to be smart, tailored and full length, (not black jeans, leggings, black sweat pants, anything skin-tight or of a shiny material). Jackets must be of a conventional design. These must be dark grey, dark navy, black or charcoal and should have buttons, not zips. Tweed is not allowed.

• Plain, dark coloured V-neck sweaters (not sweatshirts or sweaters with logos etc.)

• Shoes – black leather, sensible heel, conventional design; not trainers, boots or canvas.

• Tights (Girls) should be fine, opaque, black or skin colour.

• Winter coats of one dark colour, without logos, with no fur trim on hood or cuffs.

• In cold weather, scarves are allowed. These must be the school scarf or plain in colour –black or dark grey and must be removed in lesson time and for assembly.

SPORT AND ACTIVITIES KIT

Black PE shirt*

Black zip neck mid layer*

Black PE skort or shorts*

White PE socks*

Black tracksuit trousers*

Black/green reversible games shirt (compulsory for rugby team players only)*

Green games socks*

Thirds polo shirt (to be purchased when Thirds are allocated at the start of term)*

Netball dress (Girls - team players will be provided one by the school)*

Appropriate trainers

Games bag*

Gum shield

Shin pads

Science/Art overall (if studying subjects)

OPTIONAL EXTRAS FOR SPORT

Black base layer top

Black leggings

Black hoody*

Waterproof tracksuit top*

OPTIONAL FOR LEISURE ONLY

Green or grey leisure hoody*

Fleece lined jacket*

Arrivals and Departures

Please keep to the correct dates for arrivals and departures. If you need a taxi to collect you from the airport, please make sure you inform your House Parent. Normally throughout the year you will give your House Parent the flight details as soon as possible. To organise taxis, House Parents need all the flight details: date and time, flight numbers and airports/terminals. Please ask your parents/guardian to email flight information to: (Housename)@ Boxhillschool.com to confirm any travel arrangements.

Should there be any problems on your journey such as a missed or delayed flight to or from school, you must contact your House Parent (via the House mobile or emailing the House), so we are aware of the problem. If necessary, we will arrange a taxi to collect you and return you to Box Hill School. Further arrangements will then be made in consultation with your parents.

At the beginning of term, the House will be open from 4pm. If your flight is arriving earlier, please ensure the House Staff are aware of this and specific arrangements have been made. We would suggest that if you are on an early flight that you are collected by your guardian and returned to school after 4pm.

All students are expected to inform their House Parent of their current mobile telephone number whilst travelling. This must be carried by the student –charged and in credit. The taxi company will contact you as may House Staff. You must always carry the House mobile phone number with you so lines of communication can remain open.

At the start of half terms, flights may be booked after 7pm from Gatwick Airport and 7.30pm from Heathrow. Your parents must book flights themselves, it is not possible for the school to do this. Students should return to Box Hill School between 5pm and 8pm. Please avoid booking flights that arrive late as it can be difficult for all parties. If the only flight that can be booked is late we recommend that you are collected by your Guardian and then brought to school the following day (ideally, in time for the start of school).

GENERAL A-Z OF BOARDING AT BOX HILL SCHOOL

A

ABSENCE FOR APPOINTMENTS

If you need to leave School to attend an appointment, please let us know in advance. You should then sign out with the House Parent on duty and back in on your return. If there is no one in the House, you should sign in and out with the main reception. If you are required to fly home for an appointment this needs to be approved through the Headmaster’s Office. Parents should write to him via his EA, Mrs Kate Kench at absence@boxhillschool.com.

ABSENCE DURING TERM TIME

Students are expected to remain in School throughout term time. Students should not leave early at the end of term or arrive back late at the start of term. All the term dates are published a year in advance. Please do not ask to take time out of School during term time unless it is really necessary.

You are expected to keep your room tidy as a matter of courtesy to the House Keeping team. They are here to help, not to tidy up after you. Every morning, make sure your bed’s made by 8am and your curtains and windows are opened.

Please do not leave shoes or boxes on the floor - if you need more storage space speak to your House Parents. Nothing should be piled up on the seats/ desks in your bedrooms. Suitcases should be emptied and stored in the store room (along with any red boxes), NOT in your bedroom.

We do not have single bedrooms available in the Boarding Houses. In general, we offer rooms of 2 or 3 students in the Senior Houses and rooms of 3 or 4

in the Junior Houses. Where possible everyone’s wishes are met about who wishes to share with whom. All students move rooms every term. Where possible we try to avoid having students sharing with those that speak the same language.

No guests are allowed into bedrooms without the permission of the member of staff on duty. Generally, this would apply to your parents/guardians and under special circumstances. You should only visit each other’s bedroom at the invitation of and in the presence of the occupant.

No past pupils, parents, relatives or friends should be entering bedrooms, unless permission has been sought from the staff member on duty.

ACCIDENTS AND ILLNESS

The Medical Centre is open from 7.30am-5pm, Monday to Friday. If you feel unwell when you wake up you should inform the duty House Parent who will decide if you require a nurse to visit you from the Medical Centre.

Alternatively, they will send you to the Medical Centre. If you have a problem during the day, you should go to the Medical Centre. Under no circumstances should you return to the House and go to bed. If you are unwell you will be offered a bed in the Medical Centre.

CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME

Enrichment activities and Games afternoons run as part of the school timetable. You can change activities termly but once signed up you are required to attend. Activities include diverse options which can be found here: https://www.boxhillschool.com/school-life/co-curricular-programme/. You sign up for these activities on an allocated day through your school log-in on the SOCS platform. There are some activities that you can take part in outside of school. We are happy to help other activities such as Basketball to Athletics, Dance to Horse Riding. You just need to let us know.

ADAPTORS

Please ensure that you arrive with the appropriate adaptors that you will require. Some areas have USB plugs in the wall already, but these are not readily available. Please ensure that the adaptor is safe to use in the United Kingdom. Ideally these need to have a kitemark to state that they are safe.

Please be sure to use the correct adaptors for electrical appliances especially when plugging in electrical items purchased abroad. Make sure there are no trailing cables from laptops, lamps etc.

ALCOHOL

The drinking of alcohol on the school premises or when under the jurisdiction of the school is forbidden, except with permission for appropriately aged students and under supervision at organised school events. It is forbidden to bring alcohol onto the school premises or to supply it for others. The school’s policy applies to all students, even those who are aged 18 or over. The purchase of alcohol outside the school is illegal for anyone under the age of 18. Drunkenness will not be tolerated, and sanctions may have to be imposed. The drinking policy is published in full on the House noticeboard.

BBED LINEN AND TOWELS

All boarders are expected to bring their own single duvet covers, sheets and pillow cases. Pillows and duvets are provided. You are also expected to bring your own towels. We suggest 2/3 towels. Please ensure you bring 2 sets of bed linen which consists of:

Fitted Sheets – 90 cm x 200 cm x 20 cm

Duvet Covers – 135 cm x 200 cm

Pillow Cases – 50 cm x 75 cm

BEDROOMS

We do not have single bedrooms available in the Boarding Houses. In general, we offer rooms of 2 or 3 students in the Senior Houses and rooms of 3 or 4 in the Junior Houses. Where possible everyone’s wishes are met about who wishes to share with whom. All students move rooms every term. Where

possible we try to avoid having students sharing with those that speak the same language.

No past pupils, parents, relatives or friends should be entering bedrooms, unless permission has been sought from the staff member on duty.

BEDTIMES

You will be asked to leave any communal areas 30 mins before your bedtime (Seniors - 10.30pm, Juniors – 9.30pm). You should be in your room 15 mins before lights out. You should not come out of your room unless there is an emergency. You should not be visiting other rooms after lights out, even if you know they are still awake. The Sixth Form are not expected to still be working at bedtime. We are here to help you organise your study routine if you need guidance.

BIRTHDAYS

Birthdays are celebrated for all here at Box Hill School. Cakes are provided by the House Parents for every student who has their birthday while they are here. Other items can be organised in discussion with parents etc.

Seniors – will be allowed to check out for dinner with 5 friends (this can be exchanged for the next check out day if it falls on a day that you would not normally be allowed to check out).

Juniors – will be allowed a takeaway pass to be able to order a take away during the week (on their Birthday) with their friends.

BOARDERS’ OUTINGS

Most weekends, on a Sunday, there is a Boarders’ trip. These are organised in collaboration with the students who put forward their ideas every year. There will be a number throughout the academic year that are compulsory and others which are optional. The first weekend back in September involves a compulsory trip for all boarders. The list of outings in published at the start of each term. If you would like to join any of the optional weekend outings,

you should sign up on SOCS (www.socscms.com) or see Mrs Sage in Student Reception.

Please note that all trips are included in the boarding fees, if a students signs up then they are expected to attend. If a student decides last minute not to attend, there will be a charge for the trip.

BREAKAGES AND ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE

Prior to your arrival, rooms will have been checked, however any breakage should be reported immediately to the member of staff on duty. Any nonaccidental or careless damage may be recharged.

BULLYING

Bullying will not be tolerated in any circumstance, and you should try to report any such instance, whether you are directly involved or not, to one of your House Parents immediately. If you feel you are unable to do this, please see the list of other appropriate people who can be contacted in your Boarding Houses. Alternatively, you can use the Whisper system on the school’s intranet. If you are being bullied or know someone who is, it is important to share this information. Please see the Box Hill School Anti-Bullying Policy which is displayed in your Boarding House.

C

CARS AND DRIVING TO SCHOOL

Students who have passed their driving test may seek permission to drive to school. Please speak to Mr Bainbridge, Assistant Head (Sixth Form) who will advise them as to the procedures. Some Weekly Boarders in the Sixth Form may drive to and from School provided they observe the following guidelines: Before driving to and from School, pupils and parents/guardians must complete the appropriate paperwork. The pupil who wishes to drive must collect the relevant forms from their Head of Programme (IB or A Level). In completing the paperwork, a pupil is agreeing to: Observe the parking guidelines.

Only transport other members of the School if written permission has been

sent to the Sixth Form Team and House Parent from both the parents/ guardians of the driver and the parents/guardians of the passenger.

Provide the School with the details of the car being driven, and to notify your House Parent of any change to this. Hand the car keys in to your House Parent upon arrival in the House (boarders and weekly boarders).

Failure to observe these guidelines may result in the permission to drive to and from School being retracted.

As a general policy, you may not get into someone else’s car, particularly another students’. If you feel you need to do so, the following procedure must be followed:

At least 24 hours before the commitment the parent of the driver and your parents (you as a passenger) must email your House Parent seeking permission with the relevant details.

Email confirmation has been received by the driver’s and passenger’s parents from the House Parent.

This applies throughout your time in the care of the school and House Parents. If you are a driver, please refer to the Sixth Form Car Driver Policy for what you are required to provide and what you can or cannot do as far as driving is concerned.

CHECKING OUT

We allow students to check out (i.e. leave site) at the weekend. This is a privilege and not a right for our students. All Leave requests must be put on Reach, our Boarding Management Software (students will be given log-ins upon arrival). Seniors must check out with at least one other person and have the member of staff on duty mark you as checked out, when you leave school during their free time. For Juniors, you must check out in groups of three or more and follow the same procedure. Students in KS3 (years 7 to 9) may only leave site in the care of a member of staff – this occurs every Saturday to one of the local towns. All students must contact staff every 90 mins, or as often as requested for younger students. You must always check back in to the House, immediately on your return in person and in your group to the member of staff on duty. If you are late returning after checking out, you may not be allowed to check out the following weekend. For the younger students, check out is to the

local towns/ villages and for the older students, they are able to check out to London.

Protocols about Checking out;

If you wish to go home or to your guardian’s house for the weekend, please inform your House Parent as soon as possible by putting the information on Reach, and in advance.

If you wish to check out for any event or overnight stay you will need to ensure that your parent or guardian has given written permission to your House Parent in good time (by Wednesday for the weekend). You are not allowed to leave the site without appropriate permissions being received.

Permission to leave the school site will only be granted if guarantees have been received that you will be in the care of an appropriate designated guardian or host family. There is no exception to this rule (both must be emailing the arrangements: name, address, phone).

To avoid disappointment, if you are planning anything out of the ordinary, please discuss your intentions with your House Parents before starting to make plans.

CHURCH SERVICES

Occasionally you will be required to attend St Michael’s Church in the village. The dates for these services are in the calendar. This is considered a compulsory feature of your time with us at Box Hill School regardless of personal spiritual beliefs. We welcome all faiths as does St Michael’s church. If your parents do not wish you to attend church services you must request permission to be absent from the Assistant Head Pastoral; Mrs Claire Ellis, her email address is Claire.Ellis@boxhillschool.com

CONFIDENTIALITY

We understand that you may wish to talk about some things in confidence and we are happy to do so. However, if there are concerns about your safety, we may well need to share this with others, but we would tell you this first.

COMMON ROOMS AND COOKING

Each Boarding House has a common room that the students can use at break

and lunch, as well as in the evenings and at weekends. These common rooms are equipped with a variety of things, but all have televisions as well as games consoles (e.g PlayStation or Xbox) for which use is regulated.

Each Boarding House is also equipped with a kitchen that students can use. These are unavailable for use at Breakfast and Lunch but are allowed to be used in the evening. Junior students are able to cook at the weekends and one night during the week. Senior students are able to cook in the evenings if they wish.

As a general rule we ask that no cooking is done after 9.30pm although drinks and small snacks can be made at any time. Students may have access to the common rooms and kitchens to make snacks and hot drinks at break times.

Students are responsible for washing up their own pans and plates and leaving these areas tidy. There is a rota for checking the kitchen is tidy at the end of the day - if everyone tidies up after themselves, then the duty person does not have to do a lot!

COMPLAINTS

If you feel the need to complain about something, please speak to your House Parents in the first instance. If you are still not happy, speak to your tutor or Ms Robinson (Deputy Head Pastoral). There is a complaints book in each of the Houses, where you can register your complaint in writing. Please feel free to use this facility.

You may also tell one of the students who is on the House Committee who could agree to bring it up at the next House Committee meeting. These will happen regularly.

Any complaint is recorded in the complaints book in the House Office. You are welcome to come and look at the management of this and recording of your complaint and its resolution.

Regarding all child protection matters or concerns, Ms Robinson, Deputy Head Pastoral or Mrs Ellis, Assistant Head are available. You will find notices in the House directing you to whom you may speak with regarding child protection or safeguarding issues.

DOCTOR / DENTIST APPOINTMENTS

Please see the nurses to arrange appointments. This has to happen during the opening times of the Medical Centre - not during lessons.

DRIVING LESSONS

You are permitted to take driving lessons during your own time or after school, providing there is written permission to the House Parents from your parents.

DRUGS POLICY

Please read the School’s Drugs Policy, published in full on the noticeboard in the Boarding House.

E

ELECTRICAL GOODS

You are welcome to bring your own music systems etc. but each appliance must be wired with a British standard kitemark plug. You should not have kitchen appliances such as kettles or rice cookers in your room as these are available in the common room which is well-resourced. We welcome suggestions if there are things we don’t have.

There will be regular checks with regard to electrical safety and it is essential that you follow the rules that are put in place for your protection and the protection of the house.

E-MAIL

Please check your email on a regular basis as this is one way your teachers will communicate with you.

EXPECTATIONS

We expect you to be considerate of others, responsible, smart, punctual, hardworking, and polite. You can expect to be treated fairly and with respect.

F FIRE ALARMS

A fire alarm could go off at any time. Sometimes it is a drill, but it may be a

real fire. This could happen during Boarding Time - after 5pm and before 8am weekdays as well as anytime during the weekends. The procedure is different to what happens during the school day.

If the fire alarm rings (a continuous ringing of the school bell) you should make your way to the assembly point for your Boarding House and wait quietly. You should line up in room order, in groups so we can quickly see if anyone is missing. Head of House or Deputy will then report to the front of Dalewood House. If this occurs at nighttime, it is essential you remove your duvet from your bed and leave it on the floor.

During the School Day: 8am-5pm weekdays, please go to the back field and line up: your tutor will register you at the ALPHABETICAL letter that corresponds to your tutor group.

FOOD

There are storage areas in the kitchen for dry food. Food stored in the fridges should be named. There is also a freezer you may use if there is space. Students are welcome to buy food and keep it in the Boarding House kitchen. Students are able to order take-aways at the weekend. These must be ordered no later than 8pm for delivery on a weekend. Seniors are also able to order take-away food on a Wednesday evening.

FOOD COMMITTEE

Two volunteering students from each House will be representing their peers at the Food Committee. They should be able to express the expectations and wishes with regards to food in the Dining Hall for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

FOOD – HOUSE CONSUMABLES

After much discussion and after trying various systems, the following food stuffs are provided by the House and will be found in the House kitchen throughout the school term: tea, coffee, hot chocolate, milk (soya, almond, rice) bread, chocolate spread, jam, butter. At the end of each term the House Parent calculates how much this has cost and divides the cost between everyone. Usually the recharge is approximately £2.50/£3.00 per week.

GUARDIANS

You should make sure the School and your House Parents have the contact details of your guardian. Students must have a guardian, resident in the UK. Guidance will be provided during the admissions process.

As of September 2022, all guardians must be AEGIS accredited following a change to the National Minimum Standards of Boarding (Government Regulations).

HHAIR AND HAIR COLOUR

Please note that hair should not be coloured (please see the appearance standards requirements). If hair has been coloured so that it is significantly different from a natural shade, you will be expected to pay for it to be returned to a natural colour. This could cost up to £100 pounds and you will be expected to cover any expense.

HEAD OF HOUSE AND DEPUTY HEAD OF HOUSE

Two students will be voted for by the rest of the students to be Head of House and Deputy Head of House. They will have a range of duties that help to run the House. Please follow their instructions if they ask you to do something. They will be supported by the House Prefects, who are also voted for by the students.

HOMESICKNESS

Homesickness is the distress and functional impairment caused by an actual or anticipated separation from home and attachment objects such as parents. It is characterised by acute longing and preoccupying thoughts of home.

This can happen to Boarders and parents of Boarders alike. In order to send a child to a boarding school, it is essential that both parents and children are prepared to maintain a long-distance relationship. In order to help you settle into your boarding life, we highly recommend you only talk to your Mum and/or Dad for 10 minutes over the phone, three times per week during the first two weeks of school. Some studies prove that these are the most

important weeks for Boarders and some boarding schools do not allow any communication with parents during these two first weeks. We understand this implies effort from both parts, parents and children. However, we expect parents to comply with the school recommendation. If you have any concerns, please speak to the House Staff and we will do our utmost to ensure you are well and happy.

HONESTY AND THEFT POLICY

You will be given a lockable wardrobe in which to store valuables. You are advised to take out the school’s optional personal possessions insurance. You must make every effort to safeguard your property by taking care to secure all valuables in your lockers or by handing them in to House staff for safe keeping. If your key is not working or there is a problem with your locker, you should inform a member of staff immediately.

Your clothes and other possessions should all be named. We can help you organise labels.

You should not enter another person’s bedroom without an invitation and the occupant should be present. Any person found in a room other than their own, should be reported to the member of staff on duty.

In the event of a theft, the incident must be reported to the member of staff on duty who will decide on a course of action. This may include any of the following:

• Questioning of individuals

• A search of the grounds

• A house search, including individuals’ personal possessions

• Involving the Police HOUSE COMMITTEE

The Head and Deputy Head of House, along with the House Prefects, will form a House committee along with the House Staff. Meetings will be held once per half term. You may ask your representative to raise any matter you would like discussed. However, we encourage you to speak directly to us if you have a

concern of any sort, either privately or in the weekly House Meeting, so that action can be taken immediately rather than waiting for a committee meeting.

HOUSE DUTIES

From time to time, according to a rota you will be expected to do a House duty. The Head of House or their Deputy are responsible for the duty sheet which will be posted on the notice board. The Head of House and Deputy are responsible for checking that duties are completed satisfactorily. The duties are not onerous and include washing up and filling the dishwasher/ emptying the dishwasher and tidying the kitchen/tidying the common Room.

HOUSE MEETINGS

We have regular house meetings to disseminate information and to discuss issues that affect the whole house. These will take place each morning at 8.10am in the House Common Room.

I INSURANCE

Please make sure your personal property is adequately insured either under your parents’ household policy or a separate contents’ policy. The School will not be liable to pay out if items get lost/go missing so please ensure that you have something in place.

INTERNET ACCESS – WI-FI

Students have full access to wireless internet in their boarding houses. The IT Department is here to support you in programming and gaining access to the wireless connection once students arrive. You are able to bring iPad, in addition to a Windows or an Apple Mac laptop. Please note a Windows laptop is preferred as the School uses Mircosoft software for teaching and learning. A 13” minimum laptop screen size, with a minimum 8GB memory specification is required. There is also plenty of opportunity for students to access their e-mails and the internet in the Computer Suites around the School. Please note that the Wi-Fi is turned off over night to ensure that students are getting enough sleep.

LAPTOPS

You are advised to lock these away when they are not in use. Please do not lend your laptop to another student.

LAUNDRY

Laundry is done three times a week. Items for washing should be brought to the bins in your corridor and separated into whites and colours. Please make sure ALL items sent to the laundry are named. If they are designer/expensive brands, please speak to your House Parents before you put them in the laundry. This is your responsibility.

The school does have the facility to label your clothes - please speak to the house staff if you wish to use this facility. Un-named clothes will be brought to the office by laundry staff- any items not retrieved within a few days will be given to a charity shop. Bedding is washed every other week.

If you require items to be dry cleaned this can be organised and then recharged to your school account.

LOST PROPERTY

The Student Receptionist, Ms Helen Sage, is in charge of lost property. Please see her or inform us if you have lost something. Please report losses as soon as they occur. Missing clothes that have been sent to the laundry can be collected from the House Office. If your clothes are not named – this is where they will end up. Make sure all your clothes are named or you have asked school to name them, so you do not lose your clothes.

M MEDICINES

Please do not bring your own medicines to school except for those prescribed by your doctor. Please ensure you notify your House Parent of these medications.

Please do not bring ‘over the counter medications to school – such as paracetamol, ibuprofen. If needed, they can be given by the member of staff on duty.

If you are over 16 years, you may self-administer prescribed medicines, but the nurses must be aware of all medicines you have and these must be stored in a locked cupboard in your bedroom.

MESSAGES

Daily messages will be written up on the whiteboard by the office door. Please read these and check other notice boards on a regular basis. Please also check your respective pigeonhole.

MOBILE PHONES

You are allowed to bring mobile phones to school. However, you do so at your own risk and should ensure that they are locked away safe when you are not using them. For all students in Year 7-11, mobile phones are collected at night and returned after school the following day. For Sixth Form students, mobile phones remain with you but you may have it confiscated if you are found to be using it in class or around the campus during the working day. Please ask parents or friends to contact you before or after classes. Mobiles will be confiscated by staff if they are being used inappropriately.

Please ensure that the House office has your up to date mobile number. If you change your number, don’t forget to tell us - particularly if you get a new one during the holiday before returning to school as we will need to inform the taxi company.

Remember that mobile phones should not be used around the school campus. This also applies to use of headphones around campus.

MONEY

Please do not keep large quantities of cash in your rooms or on you, Any cash, as well as other valuables can be handed to House staff who will store it securely. Cash deposited will be taken to the Bursary. House staff can request money from the Bursary on Wednesday each week for the coming weekend.

MUSIC LESSONS

If you wish to learn to play a musical instrument or take singing lessons, you should contact Miss Jessica Taylor in the Music School who will arrange lessons for you. Her email is jessica.taylor@boxhillschool.com

OVERNIGHT ACCESS TO STAFF

There is a member of staff on duty in the house 24 hours a day. The name of the member of staff will be written on the noticeboard on the office door. Staff duties run from 7am to 7am. The staff member will have the House mobile phone if you need attention during the night. In the first instance please phone the member of staff on duty. Failing that you can come and wake up the staff member on duty in any emergency.

P

PASSPORTS

Passports/ID and BRPs (for non-EU residents) will be held securely in the office and must be signed in/out. You have access to them whenever you need to but they will be stored in the House safe.

POST/PARCELS

Mail will be held in the office and given personally to you. You will be asked to show the contents to the House Staff on duty. Any outgoing mail can be posted via School Reception.

PREP (HOMEWORK)

There will be a dedicated prep session each evening as well as on Saturday mornings. This is done in the Boarding House. If there are concerns that you are not using your time wisely you will spend prep time with a member of staff, and not necessarily in your room or the house.

It is expected that you will use this time to complete any homework that you have been provided. Once this is completed, you are expected to continue with wider study or you can be provided with some extra English work (for EAL students) or a book to read.

R REGISTRATION

During the school day you are required to attend two registration periods

with your year group. These are a legal requirement by the Department for Education. They take place in the tutor bases at 8.15am in the morning and at 1.25pm in the afternoon. There are a number of registration points for boarders as well. These include, but are not limited to breakfast, after school, prep, evening checks. There are also a number of registration points at the weekend as well. These are based on boarders’ ages.

S SANCTIONS

We aim to create a harmonious boarding community who follow the rules and make the most of their time with us here at Box Hill School. Occasionally, sanctions are required when students fall short of what is expected of them. There is a clear Sanctions Policy in place, and this is available in each of the boarding houses. These range from house confinements to gating, though may also include a Senior Leadership or boarders detention.

SECURITY

In order to ensure there is no loss of property from the boarding houses please adhere to the following simple principles:

• Keep the entrance door closed.

• Maintain a good sense of community and trust in the House as reflected in the way that all members work and socialise together.

• Do not leave your swipe card in the pigeonhole or anywhere easily accessible (if your house has them). Do not give your swipe card to anyone else.

• Be vigilant with regards to persons who are not members of the House straying into areas of the House other than the entrance.

• Do not keep large amounts of money in your room. If you have more than a few pounds you are advised to hand it in to the House office to be kept in the safe. You will be able to collect it whenever you want it. Other valuable items of personal property should be locked away in your roomand do not leave the key in the lock!

The main entrance door of each of the boarding houses is also alarmed from

10.30pm until the morning (7am weekdays, 9am weekends). Do not attempt to open the door, as it will set the intruder alarm off!

SHOWMYHOMEWORK/SATCHELONE

All of your homework will be available on the SMHW platform. You will be provided with your log in details when you arrive. Your teachers will upload documents and instructions and you will be provided with all your log in details in the induction process. Teachers will also email work to you if they are not going to be in lessons or if you have missed work.

SMOKING

We are a no smoking school. It is an offence to smoke anywhere on the school premises. Please read the School’s policy on smoking published on the noticeboard in the boarding houses.

SPORTS KIT

Only Box Hill sports uniform may be worn. You will be required to purchase this from UniSmart (the school shop) online or you may be able to purchase it second hand from Student Reception.

SYNDICATE

At Box Hill School the prefect body is called the Syndicate and the Head Boy and Girl are called Guardians. The Syndicate are an essential feature of the school and have an important role to play. Anyone in the Sixth Form may apply to join the Syndicate by writing a letter to the Headmaster at the appropriate time. This usually takes place from January to March. Candidates are expected to be positive members of our community who have shown their commitment to the school and to the Round Square IDEALS. Decisions about who should be accepted into the Syndicate are not based on academic achievement but more on personal merit – determination, resilience, mindfulness of others, reliability, and strength of character.

T TAXIS

We will arrange for a taxi to collect and deliver you from/to the airport at the

start and end of term, or at other times as necessary. This will be recharged to your account. We will not book taxis for you to visit local towns or to go to the train station during your free time, as the costs can build up and become very expensive. You need to use the local bus service (465) and make sure you give yourself enough time to get back to school in time for check in. If you have a credit card or want to pay cash, you can book your own taxi.

We have contracts with two local Taxi firms (Mole Valley Premier and Sonic Carz). For safety reasons, students are not able to use Uber.

THIRDS AND INTER THIRDS COMPETITIONS

The whole school is divided into four “Thirds” (originally there were three but as the school grew, so did the number of thirds!) which are, effectively, houses for sports, music competitions etc. The membership of a particular Third is irrespective of which house or year you are in. They are called Athenians, Corinthians, Olympians and Spartans. Points are awarded so that each Third competes against the others.

V

VISITORS FROM OTHER HOUSES

Visitors are allowed after 4.30pm. They are only allowed in the Common Room. No juniors are allowed to visit the Senior Houses across the road without permission from House Staff. If you wish to see friends in the junior houses you will need to arrange to see them on the main school site.

Please be mindful of your fellow housemates when entertaining and always clean up after you have used the facilities.

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WAKE UP

The wake-up bell will ring at 7am and it rings again at 7.20am to signal the start of breakfast. Students are expected to get themselves up and attend breakfast. You are required to attend breakfast between 7.20am and 7.40am. A register will be taken at breakfast to ensure everyone has attended. It is the most important meal of the day. Any absences will be investigated.

WEEKENDS

The weekend routine is slightly different and will be clearly signposted in the boarding houses. Meals are not compulsory at the weekend, but students are expected to attend. Prep happens on a Saturday morning but then students are able to have free time. Sunday is used for the boarders trips which happen most weekends.

WORRIES OR CONCERNS

You may be worried about something that is happening to you/around you.

You may need help or need to know where to seek help.

You may just want to talk over something which is troubling you. If so...Who is available in school?

You can approach any of these people on your own or with a friend:

• Your House Parents

• A Peer Mentor

• Your Tutor or Head of Year/Programme

• Deputy Head (Pastoral) or Assistant Head (Pastoral)

• The School nurses in the Medical centre

• The Sixth Form Pastoral Lead or The Pastoral Hub Leader

• All Box Hill staff are here to listen and to help. They will try to do what they can.

Who is available outside school?

In each of the boarding houses you will find contact details of external people who could also help you.