Lower School Handbook

LOWER SCHOOL HANDBOOK 2024 - 2025 REMOVE - LOWER FOURTH

Welcome to Downe House

The start of your daughter’s life at Downe House marks the beginning of our partnership. The staff and I would like to welcome you as a family to Downe House. We believe that we offer a happy, caring yet stimulating environment which complements your daughter’s home life. It is a privilege for us to begin to build this valuable relationship with you, which will provide a secure and structured framework in which your daughter’s personality can grow to meet her full potential.

Mrs Emma McKendrick Headmistress

Statement of Boarding Aims and Practice

Downe House, established in 1907, is a full boarding School, which aims to provide an excellent holistic education for boarders and day pupils within a relaxed but structured House framework. The School aims to enable girls to develop academically, socially, spiritually and emotionally in a homely and friendly environment, where mutual trust and respect between pupils and staff are the fundamental guiding principles on which the community was established over one hundred years ago and on which it continues to flourish. Our partnership with our parents is also a vital strand to ensuring our pupils are well supported and this commitment can be seen through our comprehensive ‘Parenting and Educating in Partnership’ Programme.

At Downe House the individual is highly valued within the House and the whole School community. All pupils, irrespective of background, race, religion or culture, are encouraged to live in harmony with one another and, by making the most of a range of different opportunities available to them during their journey through the Lower School, the Upper School and the Sixth Form Houses, girls are encouraged to develop the necessary confidence to meet the demands of adulthood and a rapidly changing world. One Sixth Form leaver eloquently summed up the unique Downe House experience by saying, ‘I left Downe House with the feeling there was nothing I couldn’t achieve.’

Our Partnership with Parents

At Downe House, we pride ourselves on the quality of our pastoral care and, irrespective of whether your daughter is a boarder or a day girl, our aim is to support her in every aspect of her life. We aim to help her to develop academically, socially, spiritually and emotionally and to do our best to ensure that she leaves Downe House not only with the academic qualifications that will allow her to access higher education, if that is what she wants, but also with a well-established work ethic and a core set of values that will allow her to flourish in today’s rapidly changing world. However, it is important to remember that we will not be working in isolation but in partnership with you as parents. Our Parenting and Educating in Partnership Programme falls into three strands.

The first is the formal feedback you will receive from me about your daughter's progress. We will keep you informed regularly both in a formal way via reports and informally by email and telephone; however, communication from your end too is crucial. We are very aware that you know your daughter best and therefore please do share with us any information, no matter how trivial, that will help us to support her from our end. Please do not ask a member of staff to keep a piece of information to themselves, as this creates an impasse and does not allow us to move forward. No matter how sensitive or perhaps even critical of us your information is, rest assured it will be treated confidentially and professionally, and will not rebound adversely on your daughter. No institution is perfect and sometimes mistakes or misunderstandings do occur, but if we work together, even the knottiest problem can be resolved!

The second is the opportunities we provide for social contact. These will include family lunches at School, drinks receptions in London, Founder's Weekend, House events and much more. We value this informal contact highly too. We are aware of how challenging it is to bring up young girls in today’s world and we want to do as much as possible to support you, as well as your daughter, through a series of talks on subjects such as internet safety, drugs, and sex and relationships. These take place at regular intervals throughout the year. The normal pattern is for the girls to have a talk from a guest speaker, followed by a similar talk for parents. We try to arrange these to coincide with exeats, so that you can then close the circle by having a discussion with your daughter over the weekend. Many parents have found these talks really useful and we hope you will too. As well as the talks offered on site, we will continue to host virtual talks, giving our parents greater flexibility. Finally, the ways your daughter will be supported to fulfil her academic potential are outlined in the section on academic progress, and here too, we need to work in partnership. We know how much you look forward to spending time with your daughter in the holidays but it is important that she is also encouraged to do some work, especially if she is coming back to examinations the following week. We will always try to keep you informed of what work your daughter has to do but we need you to make sure she does it!

Ms Kate Eaves - Assistant Head (Lower School) - currently on maternity leave

I joined the Downe House team as Assistant Head (Lower School) in September 2022 and am thoroughly enjoying my time here. My husband and I live close by, and are expecting our first child this June. I graduated from the University of St. Andrews in 2008, with a degree in English Literature and German. After completing my PGCE, I began my teaching career at a co-educational boarding school in Cambridge, teaching German and French, and working as Assistant Housemistress in a girls’ boarding house. Lured by the lights of the big city, I then moved to London to set up the German department in an independent day school, and quickly found myself transitioning back over to pastoral care by taking on the role of Head of Lower School. I now find myself back in boarding, and truly believe that an environment such as Downe House offers something special and unique, and I love working with my experienced Lower School team to create an environment where your daughter will flourish. In my role, I oversee your daughter’s academic progress and pastoral care, and I look forward to working closely with you to ensure she has a smooth and happy transition into life at Downe House. My experience working in a boarding school means that I understand just how important providing that safe, structured and caring home from home environment is.

Ms Kate Eaves Assistant Head (Lower School)

Mr Chris Hill - Assistant Head (Lower School) - Maternity Cover

Having managed boarding houses across prep and secondary schools over the last eight years, I am confident that I can continue to support your daughter’s development as Ms Eaves leaves for maternity. After completing my teacher training, I soon found myself running a boarding house at a full boarding school in Dorset. During this time, I completed my Masters in Educational Leadership and held a variety of teaching and pastoral positions. Having been at the school for 5 years, I moved to Wokingham where I was Head of Boarding and Assistant Head of Lower School. Most recently, I have been running a boarding house at a prep school and have played a significant role in development of the year 7 & 8 programme. I am excited to join Downe House and help shape the girls’ time at the school. My experience, both pastorally and academically, will allow me to support the girls fully and I look forward to seeing them grow and develop over the coming year.

Mr Chris Hill Assistant Head (Lower School) - Maternity Cover

Mrs Genevieve Ford - Deputy Head (Pastoral)

I joined Downe House as Housemistress of Ancren Gate South (AGS) in January 2004, having previously been teaching at a maintained school in London. I took up the position of Head of Upper School in September 2011 and then Deputy Head (Pastoral) in September 2015.

In addition to my boarding role, I teach Religious Studies throughout the School. I am also part of the Safeguarding Team for Downe House.

Life in a full boarding school is always busy and every day is different. The pressure on girls in today’s world is considerable and it can be a tricky time emotionally. I believe that our girls are in need of strong leadership, high expectations and consistency. Each individual girl should have the opportunity to realise her potential. Strong pastoral care is important in order to enable each girl to flourish and to be happy. Having been a boarder myself at Queenswood and then at Stowe, I fully empathise with the girls and understand their needs within the boarding environment. The boarding house is a home away from home!

Family life is very important to me and that includes all the girls at School. My role is a residential one and I live within walking distance of School with my husband, Ray, and our children, Gabriella and Alexander. Ella is a boarder at Downe and Alex started boarding at Sherborne School last September.

I graduated from Bristol University with an honours degree in Religious Studies and Theology and completed my PGCE at the Institute of Education in London. My interests include travelling, playing polo and sailing through the air on the flying trapeze! Having grown up in Malaysia and with Ray coming from Australia, we often head for sunnier climes during the holidays and never pass up an opportunity to explore a new country. We have taken Downe House girls to India, China, Malaysia and Myanmar, which have been wonderful experiences. I am leading two tours to Kenya in Summer 2024; one in July and one in August.

I am absolutely committed to all the girls at Downe House and very much see my role as a way of life rather than a job; I feel privileged to be involved in the pastoral, academic and social development of each individual pupil.

Mrs Genevieve Ford Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Mr Hugh Grant - Deputy Head (Academic)

I joined Downe House last year, it has been a wonderful journey. Downe House is such a busy school, there is something for everyone. Before joining Downe, I taught in Dubai, South Korea and at Tonbridge School. My subject is Biology, which matches my degree, but I have taught all the Sciences in the past.

As Deputy Head (Academic) I will be working closely with the Heads of Department to ensure that every individual Downe House pupil finds the academic life at the school to be interesting and vibrant, inspiring our pupils to accept the challenges in front of them, safe in the knowledge that they have a well-developed support network at their disposal. Together we will find and celebrate your daughters strengths, as well as discover and work on the areas we need to develop. It is important that the curriculum at Downe is flexible enough to facilitate the individual journeys our pupils are on. I am excited at the prospect of being part of the school community.

I graduated from New College, Oxford and went on to complete my PGCE at Homerton College, Cambridge. My interests include travelling, playing Saxophone and history, I am doing my best to support my wife, Jenny, in her PhD in Polish military history. My family also includes my children, Phoebe and Zoë, our dogs Oreo (Greyhound) and Stanley (Saluki/Whippet) and Loki the ball python.

I am very much looking forward to learning all about Downe House and its pupils in the new academic year.

Mr Hugh Grant Deputy Head (Academic)

House Profiles

Darwin House

Darwin is only a short walk from the main School surrounded by woodland and offers a feeling of going home at the end of the day, although it is near enough for girls to pop back in their breaks. The large garden and courtyard offer a wonderful space for outdoor play, barbeques, games and general get-togethers.

There are 12 bedrooms of varying shapes and sizes, sleeping two, three or four girls. The large common room is our social centre for parties, movies and activities and is where we meet for House meetings every day. All girls are encouraged to participate in the running and organisation of the House and the House committee meets regularly.

At the weekend, there is more time for relaxing and for House activities as well as outings and trips to local attractions. Girls will often be found in the common room and kitchen, taking part in arts, crafts and baking activities, or dressing up with our exciting and inspirational collection of garments which continues to delight generations of girls!

“While I love every aspect of life in Darwin, the most notable thing is the fun evening activities.”

ZARA, 12

Mrs Sophie Hughes HOUSEMISTRESS

This year marks my fifth academic year as Housemistress of Darwin House. I studied Sports and Exercise Science at University before completing my teacher training. Here at Downe I teach PE and Games, having previously taught PE, Games and academic PE whilst living in Surrey. I live in Darwin with my husband and young daughters and family dog, Milo. We enjoy a wide variety of sports, outdoor activities and taking Milo for walks in the countryside.

Growing up in a boarding school and having been a boarder myself, I believe that your school years are a truly special time and I look forward to supporting your daughter in every aspect of their life at Downe House. The Darwin team and I will work hard to ensure that every member of the house is encouraged to express themselves without trepidation, whilst taking advantage of the huge variety of opportunities that Downe House offers. Darwin feels very much home to my family and I hope that your family will feel the same way once you and your daughter arrive.

Ms Alyson Scott-Kerley ASSISTANT HOUSEMISTRESS

I have been working at Downe House since 2009, when I joined as a part time pastoral assistant. I very quickly realised that working at Downe was going to be a real pleasure for me and was thrilled to be appointed as the Assistant Housemistress of Darwin for September 2014. I thoroughly enjoy my role, and my involvement within the school as part of the residential team. I live here on site with my black lab Flossie, who enjoys boarding life too! Being a keen walker, and a lover of the outdoors living in such beautiful leafy surroundings is perfect for me.

I very much look forward to welcoming our new girls into Darwin in September, and as always, I know that there will be lots of fun times ahead!

Hermitage House

Hermitage House is situated close to Hill and Darwin which together make up the three Lower School boarding houses for girls in Remove and LIV. Our aim is to provide the best possible environment in which the girls can negotiate challenges and set down deep roots for their time at Downe House and beyond. Hermitage provides ten spacious four-person dorms, a large common room where we hold our daily House meetings, run evening activities and enjoy movie nights. We have a prep room, where the girls can go to complete work or email home and a music room to practice their instruments in their free time. A busy communal area is our kitchen where the girls have break, tea and evening snacks. A favourite Hermitage tradition is our Sunday House breakfast where the girls come down in their pyjamas to enjoy warm croissants, cereals and toast in a very relaxed atmosphere. In the evenings, the girls can choose to attend a number of co-curricular activities and there are events going on in House such as yoga and cardio club as part of our wellbeing programme. Our girls enjoy a number of roles of responsibility within the House and the social reps often organise fun events on returning to School after exeat weekend. These have included making pizza for supper, talent competitions, dorm dances and of course, fashion shows.

Weekends in Hermitage can involve many fun and exciting opportunities for girls to socialise across the year groups or just rest and relax amongst friends. Many girls will be involved in sports matches on a Saturday afternoon or they can participate in craft activities or baking in House. In the warmer months we often have barbeques on the lawn and the girls can enjoy the sunshine whilst playing swingball and badminton with friends. On Sundays, there are organised trips for the year group to local attractions and events, making each day at Downe one to remember.

Mrs Kim Collingwood HOUSEMISTRESS

I grew up in Rutland before going to Loughborough University of Technology to study Physical Education, Sports Science and Recreation Management. Whilst at university, I participated in many different sports and I also competed successfully as an amateur jockey, point-to-point steeplechasing around the country at weekends. After graduating, I completed my PGCE at Homerton College, Cambridge, before taking my first Assistant Housemistress and teaching post in Bristol.

Before joining Downe House, I taught at a girls’ boarding school in Ascot. I performed many different roles including Assistant Housemistress, Duke of Edinburgh Leader and Head of Year in a number of key stages. I believe an important aspect of a successful House lies in setting standards and developing a positive ethos where each individual feels valued, safe and secure. As Housemistress of Hermitage I work hard to ensure each girl in my care enjoys all the opportunities available to her, whilst being fully supported by our dedicated team. I live with my husband Mark and our two children Jake and Skye, aged fourteen and eleven.

“Hermitage is a happy, friendly and warm home away from home”

ELIZABETH, AGE 13

Miss Siobhan Clare ASSISTANT HOUSEMISTRESS

I grew up in Manchester and then headed off to Durham University, where I studied Geography and later earned a Masters in Risk. During my time at Durham, I competed in both Gymnastics and Trampolining, even captaining the Trampolining team for two years. My passion for this sport stemmed from my childhood and since 2015 I've been coaching Gymnastics for both recreational and school programs.

Having worked in boarding since I left university, first as a Residential Tutor and then as Assistant Housemistress, I understand the challenges that boarding presents and the importance of balance across school life. I love getting to know the girls and believe in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for them. Beyond my responsibilities within the boarding house, I love being active, reading, and cherishing moments spent with friends. It is my hope that I can share these passions with the girls I mentor, inspiring them to explore new horizons and embrace exciting challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.

Hill House

Hill House is one of three Lower School Boarding Houses at Downe House for girls in Remove and Lower IV. We are exceptionally lucky to be in a new, purpose-built house which opened in 2015. The House has been planned meticulously and has a beautiful light and spacious common room, a large kitchen, a work room equipped with networked PCs, a music practice room and comfortable dorms with ample storage. But a boarding house is so much more than a building and the girls often say how it really feels like they are coming home at the end of the day. The House Study is always a hub of activity in the early evening and on top of organised activities, you will often find girls playing cards or trying out the latest dance routines.

We celebrate birthdays and have parties organised by our social reps, hot chocolate in the evening and popcorn on Movie Night! Weekends are busy and fun with a range of activities planned in House or out with the rest of the year group. The supportive and friendly Housestaff encourage the girls in all that they do and communicate regularly with parents to ensure the best possible outcomes for the girls. We do all that we can to make sure that girls settle quickly and happily in Hill and that their years here prepare them to be resilient, happy young adults before they move on through the School.

Mrs Alexandra Barlow HOUSEMISTRESS

I am delighted to be joining the Lower School House team, as the new Housemistress of Hill. My love for boarding began when I joined Downe House twelve years ago and I have had a variety of different roles across the school during my time here. The close-knit and positive community at Downe House is the reason I have remained for all these years, and I am incredibly proud of our School.

I will be joined in Hill by husband Paul, our three teenage daughters: Freya, Eleanor and Chloe and our whippet, Timber. Our daughter Eleanor is joining Downe House in September as part of the Sixth Form and our whole family is excited to live within such a beautiful woodland campus.

I look forward to working very closely with our dedicated House team and ensuring that every girl feels safe and secure during her time with us. Hill House is a home away from home and a place that girls can grow in confidence and be who they want to be. As a mother of three daughters, I truly understand the needs of young women and why providing excellent pastoral care should be embedded within the fabric of our school.

Mrs Nicola Patrick ASSISTANT HOUSEMISTRESS

Born into the boarding house of a local prep school where my parents were House Parents for over 25 years, I know the joys that being part of a boarding community can bring young people as they grow up. I arrived at Downe House in 2016 having spent the three previous years as Assistant Director of Studies and Head of Geography at Cumnor House Prep School in Sussex. Prior to that, I was at Bloxham School in Oxfordshire for seven years where I taught Geography to A Level and was an Assistant Housemistress in a senior girls’ boarding house. Keen for all things geographical, I followed my BSc in Geography at Durham with a PGCE from Cambridge and a Masters in Geography Education from UCL. I love the outdoors and like to use the excuse of taking holidays to ‘broaden my geographical knowledge’! I live in Hill with my husband, our two young children and our dog, Holly.

“I love being in Hill so much –sometimes it feels like the holidays are too long!”

HARRYO, AGE 11

Sauveterre

Our French Experience

This is a unique opportunity to experience life immersed in the French culture and language at the 18th Century Château de Sauveterre with other members of their year group and a dedicated team of staff – there’s no better way to develop independence, confidence and lifelong memories. All members of the LIV take part in this great adventure, which becomes a highlight of their education at Downe House. The Château is not only a beautiful building set on an extensive site, with its own outdoor sports facilities, but it also has the benefit of being within forty-five minutes of Toulouse airport and the city itself, and one and a half hours away from the Pyrenees.

The term in France provides each girl with the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture. Teaching and learning are of the utmost importance, and girls inevitably make enormous progress in French. They can also expect to be challenged intellectually and personally daily, becoming more independent and confident. The curriculum at Downe House Sauveterre is enriched by the fabulous learning opportunities on its doorstep, set in an area of France renowned for its art, history and geography. Cookery and Textiles feature in the curriculum, together with Music, Drama and Art. All lessons, except Mathematics, are delivered in French as far as is practical. By the end of the term, it is remarkable how much progress the girls will have made.

Classroom-based learning is supported by an extensive and stimulating programme of sorties to nearby villages, markets, local landmarks, and historical and cultural places of interest. Girls get involved with community-based projects at local schools and charities, which facilitate authentic interactions with young people of a similar age and the local population.

For further information on the term in Sauveterre, please click the link to read our booklet ‘Our French Experience’

For Parents whose daughters have a Child Student Visa

In preparation for your daughter going to Downe House France for a term, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you about visa requirements. If your daughter has a Child Student Visa to enter the UK to study, you will need an appropriate additional visa to enter France.

Applications should be made directly to the French Consulate in your home country by the parent or legal guardian. The amount of information requested from parents will vary from embassy to embassy but Downe House will provide a letter confirming your daughter’s attendance and term dates upon request.

Visa applications can be made up to three months in advance and an early application is advisable. France is a member of the Schengen area. If your daughter travels on a US Passport, we have been advised that she does not require an additional visa for her term in France. There are also other country exceptions and please refer to the French consulate for further information. All information is accurate at the time of writing, and we strongly advise that your daughter’s passport is up to date and valid for six months beyond the end of her term in France.

Please do not hesitate to contact Admissions for any further advice and guidance: registrar@downehouse.net

“Sauveterre was really fun, all the amazing activities, food and the swimming pool made it a lovely place to learn and enjoy the French language. My favourite part was when we read to the little French children.”

ELIZABETH LOWER FOURTH

Mrs Lauren Ponchant HEAD OF SAUVETERRE

My love for all things French was first ignited by my very exuberant and equally passionate Senior School French teacher. I soon realised that teaching was the career for me and since then, it has been my aim to pass on the joy of language learning to all my pupils.

I have been privileged to work in both boarding and day schools in my career and to hold a variety of positions from classroom teacher to Head of Languages, Assistant Head and latterly Deputy Head. I joined Downe House as Head of Sauveterre in 2021 with my husband, Christophe and two daughters, Alycia and Zoë. Together with an experienced and well-established team, we look forward to nurturing your daughter’s cultural curiosity, French linguistic ability, and wellbeing while she is in our care in France.

Mr Neil Dix-Pincott

HEAD

OF BOARDING AND PASTORAL CARE

I am thrilled to be the Head of Boarding & Pastoral Care. I have an in-depth knowledge of the local culture, history, and geography as the château is in a part of the world I fell in love with as an undergraduate at the Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour. My wife Brigid and I moved to the area after a long spell as a Languages teacher and Housemaster at a boarding school in Cambridge. Although I have a deep-seated passion for the French language and culture, and enjoy teaching it to all ages, I have always found my roles in pastoral care to be hugely rewarding. I look forward to ensuring the girls continue to receive the first-class pastoral care at Downe House during their time in France, so that they can make the most of this unique opportunity in a warm and nurturing environment.

Preparing for Boarding School

LIFE AT DOWNE HOUSE

The Downe House Podcast

Before you start your Downe House journey we have a series of podcasts available for you and your daughter to listen to. We hope that these will give you a flavour of life here at Downe before you arrive. Listen here

Who will care for my daughter?

Your daughter’s Housemistress has the primary responsibility for the overall care, welfare and development of your daughter. She will want to develop a close working relationship with you from the start in order to support your daughter through the first important weeks at Downe House and beyond.

How can I help the School by preparing my daughter for her first experience of boarding?

It is important that your daughter begins to establish an independent routine before she leaves home for the first time. It will help her considerably if she is at ease with washing her hair herself, folding her clothes, making her bed and changing her duvet cover, for example. If she has the opportunity to spend a night or two away during the holidays, this may help too.

Girls will be joining us at a time when the onset of puberty is imminent. This can be both perplexing and unsettling for them. Please be assured that staff are experienced in dealing with these issues and will care for your daughter. It is very helpful if you have discussed the changes she can expect in her body with her too. Try to build her confidence in her ability to look after herself and encourage her to ask for the help of others if she has any concerns at all – this will be readily given! Your confidence in her and in us will be a great support to her.

Settling in Day

Before the Michaelmas term starts, we hold a Settling In Day for new Remove (Day girls and Boarders). It is an ideal opportunity for parents to spend time in the Boarding House helping the girls to unpack, meet the Housestaff and the other girls and to settle in before your daughter returns for the start of term. Girls and families have told us it has been hugely valuable as a way of calming any nerves before the new term. We encourage you to bring as much of your daughter’s luggage as possible on this day so that she arrives with just her personal essentials in a small bag for the start of term. Further details are sent well before the day. You will be asked to come to the main lobby of the House where there will be a board with your daughter’s dormitory listed and someone will be on hand to help you find it. Please use suitcases or large zipped laundry bags rather than trunks, which are awkward to manoeuvre up and down the stairs. You will be asked to take your daughters cases and bags home after they have been unpacked. The girls will move dormitories each term throughout their time at Downe. Girls may however, store their luggage in the House at the end of the Michaelmas and Lent term but not in the Summer term. Overseas girls may store their luggage over the summer holiday.

Day Girls are invited to also set up their dormitory area.

The First Day

On the first day of term, girls should arrive in mufti (own clothes) not School Uniform. Day Girls will be invited to board for the first two nights of term to help them settle in and get to know everyone.

What support will my daughter get during her first term? The staff in all Lower School Houses are dedicated to working with you to ensure that your daughter receives the best possible support and care. Do not hesitate to talk to any of us at any time.

The first full day at School, for Remove, is spent on an induction programme and in lessons. The induction process continues through the first week. Girls meet their Academic Tutor and other staff. They are given guidance with the organisation of their

timetable so that preparations and music lessons, for example, may be fitted in appropriately. Girls who are new to the LIV will spend the first week to ten days at our School site in Cold Ash before flying out to France to join their peers. They will follow a programme designed especially to prepare them for their upcoming time at our Chateau Sauveterre, whilst also having the opportunity to spend time with their Housemistress and House teams, and to familiarise themselves with the environment and teachers here. Once in Sauveterre they will be assigned buddies and will be fully supported as they integrate into their year group and the community out there.

The first few weeks

During the first few weeks of the Michaelmas term, the girls will be very busy and may get quite tired. The Housestaff will manage the girls’ timetables to prevent the girls from overexerting themselves, but you may find that on the first Short Exeat and at the Long Exeat, the girls will want simply just to rest at home and spend time with their families. Whilst it is tempting to want to celebrate having your daughter at home with you with a late night or busy social diary, the girls will benefit most from time with you in the cosy surroundings of home.

Meals

It will also help if your daughter is used to eating meals regularly at set times and not ‘grazing’. The meals at Downe House are excellent and there is huge variety.

Personal hygiene

The Housestaff will keep an eye on the girls to ensure that they keep fresh and maintain personal hygiene but please encourage your daughter to get into the habit of showering or bathing regularly. Nits! Please ensure that your daughter is in the habit of checking for nits each week using a nit comb and conditionershe will be asked by Housestaff if she has done this. The Palmer Centre (our Health Centre) will be on hand to offer advice and support.

Peer support/Buddies

The Remove are assigned a buddy in LV who will mentor them throughout their first year. They will meet initially during induction week, and then again at various organised events throughout the year such as a late September BBQ, Buddy Teas, board games and hot chocolate nights and LV breakfasts. We also encourage them to seek each other out more informally throughout the year too. This provides a real opportunity for our younger pupils to build strong connections with pupils in other year groups and provides them with another source of information and support. We are also fortunate to have a fantastic team of Seniors who support the Lower School in many ways, including spending time with the girls some mornings and evenings each week, and heading up the Lower School Council.

KEEPING IN TOUCH

How Downe House will keep in touch

The Parent Hub is our secure website and allows you exclusive access to your daughter’s profile. You are able to view Reports, sign her up for co-curricular activities, and receive SMS text messages for sports fixture cancellations; these are just a few examples of the information available. You will be sent your personal login details for the Parent Hub shortly before your daughter joins Downe. There is also a regular newsletter published by each House. Lower School has a closed Facebook Group per House and we post reguarly on Twitter and Instagram. We also have a sports management system (SOCS) for the management of all our matches, tournaments and sports fixtures. The website is http://sports.downehouse.net. The password is reset each term and will be sent out to parents.

Keeping in touch with my daughter’s Housemistress

Your daughter’s Housemistress will be in touch with you during the first weeks to reassure you about how well she is settling in.

She will also be in touch if there are any real areas of concern. If you do not hear anything immediately, please do not worry. It is because all is going well and your daughter’s Housemistress is spending time getting to know her. Please feel able to share any concern that you may have by telephone or email with her Housemistress so that minor worries may be dealt with quickly. During the evenings, the Housemistress may not answer the phone when she is with the girls. Please do leave a message and she will return your call.

How can my daughter contact me?

We hope that the art of letter writing is alive and well and that in spite of her busy schedule, she will write you a letter as well as email you! It is easy sometimes for the girls to become quite dependent on emails and they will sometimes check their messages numerous times each day. We will discourage this, not least because we want the girls to be talking to their friends rather than sitting over a computer screen. Don’t forget the immediacy of email messages! The girls will express how they are feeling at that moment, but it doesn’t mean that this is how she will be feeling five minutes later. If you have any worries, please contact your daughter’s Housemistress. In general telephone calls at bedtime are best avoided until your daughter has firmly settled in and can share her experiences with you confidently. Once settled in, she may call home each night if she wishes to.

Do I need to let the School know if I am away during term time?

Yes. Please leave contact details with your daughter’s Housemistress in case of an emergency, or please give us the name of someone whom you would like us to contact in the UK in your place, should we not be able to contact you.

Is my daughter allowed a mobile phone?

Yes. Please refer to Guidelines on the Use of Mobile Phones on page 39.

What devices can my daughter bring? Smartphones are welcome but not essential. Please also see page 24 for details of the range of devices permitted.

Downe House operates a compulsory Microsoft Surface Programme, this is coordinated through Insight UK and information regarding the programme can be found on the Parent Hub. The programme is open for all parents to take advantage of the competitive pricing which we have been able to secure. This also caters for those parents who are imminently looking to purchase a device for their daughter to use. An Office 365 account will also be provided to all pupils at no additional cost to you. Please do not hesitate to contact the IT Support department should you have any questions regarding IT and its usage at Downe House. There is also advice available on the Parent Hub about making your daughter’s mobile safe by putting in appropriate parental controls. This is something that we consider essential, especially pre-GCSE. Girls will continue to have their devices collected in at night time in Remove and up to UIV and the early part of UV. Facilities will be in place for storage and overnight charging.

How can I contact my daughter?

Your daughter will have her own email address and will be allowed to use her mobile as detailed above. The girls will also have access to a telephone in the case of an emergency.

Anxious phone calls and emails

Do encourage your daughter to come to us first with a worry. Parents can do little about it and we are on the spot. The girls bond better if they support each other and we encourage them to discuss solutions rather than expect parents to intervene on their behalf. Try not to worry about the ‘best friend’ syndrome. We are here to support parents and girls and we never mind a phone call, no matter how silly you might think it is!

Urgent messages for my daughter

If you are unable to get hold of your daughter, please phone the House on the appropriate number and leave a message (for the Housemistress or the Assistant). Answerphones are checked as often

as possible during the day. In the event of an emergency, please contact the main School number (01635 200286) when you will be told how to contact the appropriate person to deal with your query or message. The Palmer (Health) Centre’s number is manned 24 hours a day: 01635 204657. There is also an emergency line: 01635 200244. However this must be reserved for emergencies only. Please note this line is not manned during exeats.

GENERAL HEALTH

What happens if my daughter needs Health care?

The House team is likely to be the first port of call for minor injuries and ailments. The Palmer Centre, our health centre, is staffed 24 hours a day by qualified nurses in order to offer the very best in care and specialist support. You will always be informed if your daughter is admitted to the Palmer Centre overnight.

Your daughter will be registered with the School Doctor, Dr Natalie Colborne, at the Burdwood Surgery, Thatcham, during her time at Downe House. Regular surgeries are held in the Palmer Centre by the two School doctors (one is female) four times each week. If you have any queries about your daughter’s health, you can ring the Palmer Centre at any time.

The School can arrange for emergency private orthodontic treatment or emergency dental treatment to be carried out locally, in consultation with parents when possible. Please try to ensure that routine visits to the dentist take place during the holidays. A specialist firm called Titan comes into School to take impressions for individual mouthguards, which are strongly recommended and are compulsory for School matches in some sports. Forms are available on the Parent Hub.

If your daughter wears glasses, it is essential that they should have unbreakable lenses if they are to be worn for games. She should always have a spare pair at School. Goggles for lacrosse are compulsory and goggles for squash are strongly recommended.

Note: If your daughter is unwell during the holidays or when she is at home on exeat, please always let the Palmer Centre know and inform her Housemistress or a member of the House Team on her return, so that they can respond appropriately.

Each House has a medical cupboard, so there is no need for your daughter to bring any paracetamol with her. Any medication she does need to bring back (except inhalers, but including vitamins and cough sweets) must be handed in to the Housestaff or health centre staff immediately. All items should be labelled and should clearly show your daughter’s name. An accompanying form stating the dose, frequency and permission for Housestaff to administer the medication is also required. If the packaging is in a foreign language, parents should provide a translation for the Housestaff or health centre staff.

What should I do if my daughter is on regular medication? Always let the Palmer Centre and Housestaff know if your daughter is on regular medication so that they can ensure it is administered correctly.

Will my daughter be encouraged to eat a healthy, balanced diet? There is a wide variety of freshly cooked food available at breakfast, lunch and supper. A salad bar is also available at lunch and supper. All meals are taken in the Main Dining Room and there is always a staff presence. Refreshments are also provided at break and teatime.

The Palmer Centre is always happy to discuss nutrition with any girl to ensure they are eating a healthy and balanced diet.

Note: If your daughter is allergic to certain foods, please discuss this with the health centre staff and with the Housestaff so that alternative arrangements may be made. Any food produced by the Catering department that may contain nuts is always clearly marked.

Girls should not return to School with chocolate spreads unless they are totally nut free (spreads which ‘may contain a trace of nuts’ are not acceptable). They should not bring in cereals/ spreads or tuck containing nuts.

BEING A DAY GIRL

The First Day

On her first day, your daughter is very welcome to arrive with the other girls to drop off any personal belongings and to meet the other girls. She should be dressed in mufti. We hope day girls will stay to supper in the Main Dining Room at 6pm. If she would like to do this, please contact the Housestaff. Day Girls will be invited to board for the first two nights of term to help them settle in and get to know everyone.

From then on your daughter should register in her House by 7.30am. She will also need to register at lunchtime at Reception.

What should she bring with her?

On her second day she should be in School uniform (winter) and will need to bring her book bag, all her pens and pencils and any PE kit she already has.

The Routine

When should she arrive in the mornings and where should she go?

Your daughter should arrive at 7.30am when she can join her House for the House meeting followed by breakfast in the Main Dining Room at 8am.

What time should I normally collect her?

Normally School finishes at 6pm. However, there will be events, rehearsals, practices and activities which take place every week. She is more than welcome to join the boarders for supper and go back to the house, as long as the Housemistress knows when you will collect her. Your daughter should know about the timings of rehearsals and activities but if you are in any doubt, please contact her Housemistress. She must tell her Housemistress or Assistant Housemistress when she leaves for the evening. All Lower School girls are expected to honour their House commitments at the end of a school day before going home.

Can she join in the activities after school?

Your daughter is encouraged to join in activities after school. We recommend that she does not take on more than two at this stage.

Can she join in the activities at weekends?

Of course! Details are published in the Key Dates and Information booklet. If for any reason she is unable to attend an activity to which she has committed herself, please ring and let the Housemistress know. We will worry if she does not arrive.

What should she do with her laundry?

Your daughter should take her uniform and PE kit home to be washed. She may need some encouragement to do this!

Help and Advice

To whom should she go if she is anxious about anything? Your daughter will be able to talk to her Housemistress, Academic Tutor, Assistant Head (Lower School), any member of the Palmer Centre or School staff with whom she feels at ease.

Will the Housemistress still take an interest in our daughter even though she is a day girl?

Most definitely! She may take a little longer to get to know your daughter but the more she is with us, the easier this becomes.

Taking Friends Out

Can my daughter invite friends out as we live quite close to the school?

It is always lovely for girls to have an invitation out however, please do keep the girl’s parents and Housemistress in the loop.

Keeping Up To Date

How will I know what is happening in the School e.g. when there are mufti days?

There will be a weekly notice on the bulletin board in the House. A Key Dates and Information Booklet is available online to keep you updated with School events.

If my daughter is unwell, what will happen?

The Palmer Centre staff will contact you. You will have the option to collect your daughter if necessary during the day or after School.

Please let the Palmer Centre staff know if your daughter has been unwell. This helps us to care for her better. If she is on any medication, please advise the Palmer Centre staff so that this can be administered.

Written or emailed permission to the Housemistress must be given for any medication to be administered in House. This includes vitamins, herbal medicines or any other non-prescription medication.

What do I do if I have any questions?

Please do contact the School. Your daughter’s Housemistress, the Assistant Head (Lower School) or her Academic Tutor will be happy to help you.

WHERE CAN MY DAUGHTER GO FOR HELP AND ADVICE?

The Health Centre

Morning triage: 7.45am - 8.30am

Appointments: booked throughout the day Evening surgery: 6pm - 8pm

After 8pm, girls should see their Housemistress and they will contact the Palmer Centre.

The Director of Health is Ms Gemma Palmer, palmerg@downehouse.net

If girls are feeling unwell or need to speak to a nurse, we will triage this in the morning and book them an appointment for some point in the day where they can be seen and given adequate time and assessment. The girls can drop in to evening surgery without an appointment. Off games permission will only be given out by The Health Centre staff during an appointment time.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality in the Health Centre You can be sure that anything your daughter discusses with ANY member of the Palmer Centre – doctor or nurse – will stay confidential. Even if they are under 16 nothing will be said to anyone, including parents, Housestaff or teachers, without your daughters permission. The only reason why we might have to consider passing on confidential information without their permission would be to protect them or someone else from serious harm. We would always try to discuss this with your daughter first.

Off Games Slips

If your daughter needs to be off Games, she must attend morning surgery. If the nurse confirms that she needs to be off Games, her name will be put on a daily list given to the PE staff. Housestaff may give her an ‘Off Games’ slip for one day. Your daughter must report to the PE Office at the start of the Games lesson, even if she is off Games.

House Surgeries – See House Notice Board for times Plasters, cough linctus, Deep Heat, throat lozenges and paracetamol are all kept in House surgery cupboards and Housestaff are more than happy to supply your daughter with these when required. Please do NOT bring painkillers back to School. Any medication, apart from inhalers MUST be handed in to the Housestaff to be kept locked in the House Surgery cupboard along with a completed form giving your permission for the

medication to be administered. The Housestaff will supply the form for you.

Confidentiality in the Palmer (Health) Centre

Your daughter can be sure that anything she discusses with any member of the Palmer Centre – doctor or nurse – will stay confidential. The only reason we might consider passing on confidential information without your daughter’s permission would be to protect her or someone else from serious harm. We would always try to discuss this with her first.

Personal Matters

We all have worries, problems and difficulties from time to time, which might affect either an individual or a group. In a boarding school, matters can normally be resolved, or be dealt with to some extent, by talking to a member of staff. Housestaff, Academic Tutors or any of the teachers will always be willing to listen. The School Doctor, the nurses in the Palmer Centre, the Deputy Headmaster, Assistant Head (Lower School) and the Headmistress are also available. Please note that the Designated Safeguarding Lead for Child Protection is the Director of Boarding.

You or your daughter may also contact other people for advice, such as those on the list below, who are not involved in the dayto-day running of the School.

Mrs Madeleine Loughlin, School Psychotherapist 07968 848079 loughlinm@downehouse.net

Mrs Davinder Dhaliwal, School Counsellor dhaliwalD@downehouse.net

Mrs Cassandra Eaton, School Counsellor eatonc@downehouse.net

Independent Listener - Dr Clare Ratnage 01635 917826 or independentlistener@downehouse.net

Childline 0800 1111

Beat - Beating Eating Disorders, Youth Helpline 0808 801 0711 daily 3pm - 10pm or email fyp@beateatingdisorder.org.uk

Alateen, Confidential Helpline 0207 593 2070 For families and friends of problem drinkers.

ISI - Independent Schools Inspectorate 0207 600 0100

The Children’s Commissioner 0800 528 0731/0207 783 8330

WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG?

How does my daughter raise a complaint?

Some problems are best dealt with through individual contact with one person, but others may need to be dealt with by several people. It is important to stress that you and your daughter may choose the people with whom you would like to speak. Also, pupils are able to use Whisper an anonymous pupil voice reporting system for them to report anything that they would like to.

The School’s pastoral and counselling system should support your daughter through her time at Downe House and deal with most matters of concern. Under some circumstances she may wish to make a formal complaint in writing, especially if an informal complaint has not been satisfactorily resolved. Whether she chooses to deal with a problem alone or seek advice or follow a formal complaint procedure, is a matter for her to decide.

Making a Formal Complaint

She may make a formal complaint by adopting the following procedure (with or without informing the person she is complaining about):

1 Write to her Housemistress, her Academic Tutor, the Assistant Head (Lower School) or the Headmistress. In practice, she may

have discussed the matter with this person already.

2 Her complaint will then be acknowledged and registered.

3 Your daughter will then be asked to talk the matter through with a member of the Leadership Team, in the first instance, as soon as possible who will then pass on the information to the Headmistress. She may invite a pupil or a member of staff of her choice to this meeting.

4 If at any stage she is dissatisfied with this procedure, your daughter may contact a representative at ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) on 0207 600 0100 or email info@isi.net The Representative will come and speak to her privately at School – again she may have someone with her – and will advise her about what course seems sensible.

Guidance for parents

Downe House welcomes suggestions and comments from parents, and takes seriously complaints and concerns they may raise. A complaint will be treated as an expression of genuine dissatisfaction which needs a response. We wish to ensure that:

• Parents wishing to make a complaint know how to do so.

• We respond to complaints within a reasonable time and in a courteous and efficient way.

• Parents realise that we listen and take complaints seriously.

• We take action where appropriate.

How should I complain?

You can talk directly to a Head of Department, the Assistant Head (Lower School), the Headmistress or another senior member of staff, write a letter, email or telephone. Be as clear as possible about what is troubling you. Please note that the Headmistress is likely to be informed of all complaints.

Any member of staff will be happy to help. It may be best to start with the person most closely concerned with the issue – for example, to raise house matters with the Housemistress, sports concerns with the Director of Sport. They may be able to sort things out quickly, with the minimum of fuss. However, you may prefer to take more serious matters to a senior member of staff, such as the Deputy Head (Pastoral) or Headmistress.

I do not want to complain as such, but there is something bothering me

The School is here for you and your child, and we want to hear your views and your ideas. Contact a member of staff, as described above.

I am not sure whether to complain or not

If, as parents, you have concerns, you are entitled to complain. If in doubt, please contact the School to discuss concerns. This will probably help you to decide if you wish to make a formal complaint.

What will happen next?

If you raise something face-to-face or by telephone, it may be possible to resolve the matter immediately and to your satisfaction.

If you have made a complaint or suggestion in writing, we will contact you within five working days to respond to your concerns and explain how we propose to proceed.

In many circumstances, the person you contact will need to discuss the matter with a colleague and consider it further before responding. You will be given a date by which time you will receive a response. If a detailed exploration of the issues is needed, a letter or report will be sent to you as quickly as possible. This will give you the outcome of your complaint. It will explain the conclusion, the reasons for it, and any action taken or proposed.

What happens about confidentiality?

Your complaint or concern will be treated in a confidential manner and with respect.

Knowledge of it will be limited to the Headmistress and those directly involved. In serious cases, the Chair of Governors may also need to be informed. It is the School’s policy that complaints made by parents should not rebound adversely on their children. We cannot entirely rule out the need to make third parties outside the School aware of the complaint and possibly also the identity of those involved. This would only be likely to happen where, for example, a child’s safety was at risk or it became necessary to refer matters to the police. You would be fully informed. While information relating to specific complaints will be kept confidentially on file, we would point out that anonymous complaints may not be pursued.

Staff disciplinary procedures which need to be taken as a result of complaints would be handled confidentially within the School.

What if I am not satisfied with the outcome?

We hope that you will feel satisfied with the outcome, or at least that your concerns have been fully and fairly considered.

If you are not satisfied, the Headmistress will offer to refer the matter to the Chair of Governors. Alternatively, you may wish to write directly to the Chair, Ms Fru Hazlitt, whose address is displayed at the back of this booklet on the Supplementary Information page. The Chair will call for a full report from the Headmistress and will examine matters thoroughly before responding. This may result in a positive solution, but if it does not, the Chair will invite you to a meeting. You may wish to be supported by a friend, but legal representation would not be appropriate at this stage.

If the meeting does not bring about a resolution, the matter would be referred to the School’s Appeal Committee. It is their task to look at the issues in an impartial and confidential manner. The Committee Convener will invite you to a meeting. You will be asked if there are any papers you would like to have circulated beforehand. As with the Chair’s meeting, you will be invited to bring a friend with you.

The School acknowledges your entitlement to complain and we hope to work with you in the best interests of the children and young people in our care.

EXEATS/WEEKENDS

Boarding is at the heart of the experience at Downe House. We aim to provide our families with a boarding model that is well suited to the needs of a modern family who lead busy lives. Offering both flexibility and stability, boarding at Downe House ensures that the girls’ pastoral and educational needs are at the heart of all that we do. As a full boarding school, we have the luxury of time and space, which helps foster the strongest of relationships, not only with each other but with the wider community too. Creating the right balance of boarding and family time is important at Downe House.

Each term includes a Long Exeat which are around seven to ten days. The Michaelmas and Lent terms include two Short Exeats and the Summer term one Short Exeat. All girls return to their parents or guardians during these times. The first and last weekend of each term is a ‘Closed Weekend’, where all girls are expected to stay in School. These weekends are when important events and activities take place. To ensure they have a chance to catch up with family and have a well-earned rest from busy boarding-school life, girls are permitted to go home on any other weekend, as long as their School commitments have been honoured. We believe that this offers our families the necessary flexibility, while ensuring that life at Downe House continues to thrive at the weekends, with a busy programme available to all.

As a boarding school, each girl’s contribution to our community through music, drama, sport, whole school events, trips and

activities is highly valued. Our unique boarding structure enables us to offer the very best specialised pastoral care for each stage of development. Our three-step boarding comprises of the Lower School, the Upper School and the Sixth Form boarding houses, which allow for our Housestaff to really tailor the care for each individual and meet the needs of the girls at each stage of their teenage development.

To this end, weekends are approached differently depending on the age of the girl. In the Lower School, as the girls make the transition to boarding, some for the first time, it is important to ensure that there is a good balance between home life and staying in School to build relationships. This will be managed carefully by the Housestaff to ensure the right balance is being met. This is also the case in the Upper School. In the Sixth Form, the emphasis is on each girl to manage her weekend commitments, as we prepare the girls to step towards life beyond Downe.

Do I need to give permission for my daughter to go out at weekends?

Yes. If you wish to allow your daughter to stay with a friend or relative, then you should confirm this in writing (email or written letter) with her Housemistress. It is helpful if arrangements can be communicated well before the day in question and confirmed by the Sunday prior to the relevant weekend at the latest in order to inform the Catering department of accurate numbers. Your daughter’s safety is paramount. If your daughter is going out with you, we also ask that this is confirmed in writing (email or written letter).

Sunday Lunch timings – If there is Matins, a girl may go out after Matins and must return by 7pm. If there is Evensong, a girl may go out after breakfast but must return in time for check-in at 5pm and Evensong at 6.30pm.

Girls in the Lower School are recommended to stay in for at least two to three weekends each term, in addition to the Closed Weekends, to benefit from a full boarding experience. Housestaff will be on hand to guide parents and guardians about which weekends would work particularly well for their daughter to stay in but there is flexibility around this as well, as the needs of the individual is accounted for. All commitments should be honoured before an exeat or lunch is taken. New 11+ boarders should remain in School for the first two weekends to settle in.

Weekend Activities at Downe House

The main focus for our Weekend Activity Programme is to offer the girls a broad range of activities which enables them to have fun and relax whilst also offering them opportunities for personal growth and development, inter House bonding, team-building and a chance to develop leadership skills! Where appropriate, activities are split into small groups and led by the girls under close supervision of staff.

A great deal of thought is given to strike a balance between keeping busy and providing down time.

A girl in the Lower School will be offered a varied Weekend Activity Programme which could include many of the activities below. This is supplemented by in House activities such as art and crafts, cooking, dorm entertainments and garden games, as well as the Wakefield Award.

• Teambuilding afternoon.

• BBQ and den building.

• New girls’ family lunch.

• Aquadrome.

• House Drama rehearsals and production.

• Visit to Cadbury World.

• Paultons Park.

• Bowling.

• School concert.

• Christmas crafts.

• Fun swims.

• Orienteering.

• Cotswold Wildlife Park with African Animal Talk and Brass Rubbing.

• Trip to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower.

• DT and Science Challenge in teams.

• Ice skating.

• Classics Trip to Fishbourne Roman Palace.

• Cinema.

• Camping.

• Canoeing.

• Theatre trips.

• Social events with a boys’ school.

• Founder’s Weekend.

• Dance Showcase.

• Sports Day.

• Wakefield Award activities (see page 29).

TRAVEL

How are travel arrangements made?

Term dates are published well in advance of each academic year in order to enable parents to make travel plans in good time. Leaving early or arriving late is not acceptable. However, should this be unavoidable, please send a request in writing to the Housemistress well in advance as she will need to grant permission. We know that you will not want your daughter to miss any valuable school time and will support us in keeping the term time sacrosanct.

A London bus is offered during short and long exeats but not at the beginning or end of term (due to luggage restrictions) for those girls wanting to travel to London. A form is available on the Parent Hub and the coach is accompanied by staff to and from the Novotel Hotel in Hammersmith. This is a very popular service and seats will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. No girl may use this coach service without written consent from her parents. Please use the sign-up form on the Parent Hub, giving at least seven days’ notice.

How will my daughter get to the airport?

Transport can be arranged to take and collect your daughter to and from the airport and a form is available on the Parent Hub. Wherever possible, girls will be transported by minibus or in a taxi shared with other girls. This could result in a wait at the airport for a short time in order to accommodate the flight times of the others. As well as completing and returning the form on the Parent Hub detailing the Flight Number, Airport and Terminal, date and time of the flight and Unaccompanied Minor status, please let the relevant Housemistress have the details too. These details need to be provided to the transport companies we work with. Please give at least seven working days’ notice for travel bookings.

USEFUL INFORMATION

IT Support Offices

Where possible, please ask your daughter to log any IT issues she may have via the Schoolbase support desk. Alternatively, you can use the email address IThelpdesk@downehouse.net.

Library (Murray Centre)

The Library is located in the Murray Centre and is open daily from 8am until 10pm, except for a Sunday when it opens at 10am or after Chapel.

Lost Property

The Lost Property Office is located next to the swimming pool. This is open on Monday frrom 6pm-6.30pm and Tuesday from 6pm – 7.30pm. You can also email Reception reception@ downehouse.net

Also remember to check Yammer, this where found items are advertised.

Post

There is a postbox for stamped mail inside Reception in Wakefield

House. Stamps can be bought in the School Shop.

Resources

The Resources Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am6pm.

School Shop

The School Shop is located in the Murray Centre. It is open Monday to Friday from 11am - 1.30pm and from 6.15pm - 7.45pm. On Saturday it is open 12 noon - 2pm.

FEELING AT HOME

What should my daughter bring with her?

Personalising her dorm space is very important. Her favourite cuddly toy is an ideal companion. Posters and favourite family photographs are also ideal. Don’t forget drawing pins for her notice board.

A sensible amount of toiletries (sanitary products, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, shower cap and shower gel) should be brought. These should be named to avoid confusion in the bathrooms. Smaller sizes can be more easily stored. Top-ups can be bought from the School Shop. No aerosols should be brought back to School, as the smoke detectors are sensitive to the spray. What electrical items may my daughter bring back to School? Your daughter may bring devices such as an iPod, Kindle, e-reader and hairdryer, if she wishes. These should all conform to the British Safety Standards and be named, including the chargers. It is not advisable for these to be expensive models. No extension leads are permitted in the interests of safety. Girls coming from abroad must use adaptors that conform to the British Safety Standards. Handheld computer games should not be brought to School. Please also refer to page 20 and the paragraph ‘What devices can my daughter bring?' Plug-in air fresheners are not permitted and please ensure that any plug adapters conform to British Standards (BS8546).

What tuck may she bring with her?

A small amount of tuck may be brought back and, of course, can be bought from the School Shop. Tuck will be stored centrally and should fit into a shoe box sized storage box. Fruit is provided in the Houses. Peanut butter and Nutella are NOT allowed in order to safeguard girls with a nut allergy. The School provides hot chocolate and squash for a cosy evening drink in the House. Each girl should have a named mug which she will use for her evening drink. She may also find a water bottle helpful to have by her bed at night.

Birthdays

We love birthdays in House! Please feel free to telephone your daughter on the special day. Presents and cards are opened in the morning or evening during a small celebration – if you would like to provide a cake, this is always gratefully received. Please contact your daughter’s Housemistress to discuss the arrangements for your daughter’s birthday. If you want to mark birthday post as such on the envelope, we will save it for the special day.

Is there anything I can contribute to the House?

Any dressing-up clothes and high-heeled shoes are always a welcome addition to the dressing-up cupboard.

Cakes

Whilst the School provides biscuits for the girls’ snacks, there is nothing quite like a cake from home. If you would like to offer cakes, they would be much appreciated.

Laundry

Laundry is done weekly at School. Your daughter will need to take responsibility for the care of her clothes: how often things need to be washed, their storage and folding. A laundry bag can be bought from the School Shop to store dirty laundry. The Housestaff will deal with items with personal stains discreetly. Please do not bring anything to School which cannot be machinewashed and tumble dried.

Library

We are always pleased to receive second hand DVDs (PG and U only for Remove, 12s as well for the LIV) and books for the House libraries.

POCKET MONEY AND PERSONAL DOCUMENTS

How much money should my daughter have?

£30 will be a sufficient sum for your daughter to bring back with her each term, in a mixture of small change and small notes. When Remove girls go on School trips they are generally given a guide as to how much money to take with them. Therefore it is helpful if their money is kept in small denominations. She may replenish her pocket money at the exeat if necessary. Girls living overseas must lodge a larger amount of money with the Housemistress to cover the whole term if necessary. Please also note that each girl is provided with a personal safe, for which a padlock will be needed. As provision is made for the safekeeping of money, the School accepts no responsibility for money lost when girls have failed to hand it in.

What happens if my daughter runs out of money?

Never worry, your daughter will be well looked after. Housestaff will always help her out in an emergency, and your permission will be gained via email.

If I live overseas who will be responsible for passports, visas, vaccination certificates, tickets etc?

All documents for girls living abroad should be handed in to her Housemistress who will hold them for safekeeping until they are required. Parents are responsible for seeing that passports and visas are valid and that tickets are sent to her Housemistress for safekeeping well before the departure date. Where possible, vaccinations should be carried out in the holidays but the Palmer Centre at School will help in an emergency.

Child Student Visa

We welcome international pupils to Downe House. Not only are they able to benefit from a UK education but they enrich our School life and enhance the experience of local pupils. Children from other countries, who wish to attend school in the UK and who do not have a separate right to come and study in the UK, must apply for a Child Student visa. As a Child Student visa

sponsor Downe House must hold a license which is issued by the UK Home Office. Our license number is: GHC8QAKV2. With this license comes several responsibilities which we, like all Child Student visa sponsors, must always comply with. Any school that does not do so may have their license withdrawn by the Home Office. Where this occurs, all international pupils must leave the School and the impact on both pupils and school can be very serious. To ensure that pupils and parents comply with the UK Government’s requirements on visa entry, Downe House have instructed Newland Chase Education – a UK immigration law firm that specialises in student visas and school licenses to complete and submit all visa applications, whether these are overseas applications, or renewal visas in the U.K.

HOMESICKNESS - HOW TO COPE

Homesickness often forms a natural part of the transition between home and School and should be recognised and understood. Dealing with it demands mutual trust, especially with the Housestaff.

Children away from home for the first time are easily upset by the apparent complexity of a new system. They need to be supported and guided into it, so that they can relax and feel confident quickly. Keeping busy and making friends are the fastest ways to counteract homesickness.

The strength of the first year at Downe lies in the level of adult contact with girls and parents, which enables the new routine, and a swift integration into a new ‘family’ unit in School, to be established as soon as each girl is comfortable. This provides a secure framework in which each girl can find her feet and explore a new and stimulating environment, where she can share her achievements with parents and guardians with pride. It is a fact that some children take longer than others to settle. Encourage your daughter to be positive and to regard this new chapter as the beginning of a great adventure.

Homesickness – A Parents’ Guide

DO encourage your daughter to share her feelings and concerns with us as well as with you, and to trust us.

DO encourage her to share all the excitement of her new surroundings.

DO get her to talk positively about her new routine.

DO get her to appreciate her achievements in boarding as a big success.

DO say how proud you are of her.

DO reassure her that we are in a close partnership together with you.

DO ‘blur’ the edges between home and School. She has not been ‘sent away’ but ‘sent to’ an exciting, caring place where she can realise her hopes and dreams.

DO let her feel your support strongly if she cries. Go for a quick turnaround to laughter. Remind her of all she is achieving.

DO reassure her that you are fine. Have a new initiative for yourself.

DO telephone us if you feel low. Many of us have been through this too.

DO make her feel that all the familiar routines at home are still there.

DO make time to meet her ‘new’ friends on your visits. Perhaps take one or two out for lunch with you. This makes you part of the scene.

THINGS TO BRING - CHECKLIST

Bedding

Duvet, duvet cover, pillow and pillow case. These items should conform with British Safety Standards. The School provides fitted sheets only. For overseas girls, if you would like the School to provide you with a duvet and pillow please let your Housemistress know and she will be happy to help.

Electrical Items

Girls are not allowed any electrical items other than an iPod/ Kindle/e-reader/iPad and a hairdryer. Many girls find audio books ease their way into sleep. The equipment should conform to British Safety Standards and be named clearly. It is not advisable to bring expensive equipment and extension leads are not allowed. Please also see 'What devices can my daughter bring?' on page 20.

General stationery

Please bring writing paper and stamps, pencils, crayons, sellotape, a geometry set and scissors. For maths also bring a protractor (180° or 360°), a pair of compasses, a ruler, a pencil (HB), an eraser, a black or blue pen and a scientific calculator (Casio FX83GT) which is also available from the School Shop.

Jewellery

During the working day, girls are able to wear a single unobtrusive pendant such as a cross, Star of David or St Christopher. They may also wear one pair of plain stud earrings. At weekends a modest amount of additional jewellery may be worn. Please do not bring any items which are especially valuable or have sentimental significance.

Labels

Please give your daughter two dozen name tapes at the beginning of the year and label EVERYTHING!

Laptop (Microsoft Surface) - COMPULSORY

Please see page 20 and the paragraph ‘What devices can my daughter bring?'

Luggage

Please bring suitcases or large zipped laundry bags rather than trunks. You will be asked to take empty luggage home after it has been unpacked. Girls should also have an overnight bag for Short Exeats and a ‘casual bag’ or backpack for trips out.

Mugs

Each girl is welcome to bring a named mug, which she can use for her evening drink.

Musical Instruments

These should be kept in a case and named clearly. Instruments should also be insured on your home insurance policy.

Padlock

Each girl is provided with a small personal safe, for which a padlock will be needed.

Pocket Money

Pocket money is most useful in very small denominations i.e. 10p, 20p, 50p, and a few one pound coins, about £30 in total.

Posters

Posters and photographs to decorate your daughter’s pinboard will help her to feel at home. Remember to bring the drawing pins!

Sewing Kit

There are sewing materials in the House, but it will be helpful if your daughter also has her own sewing kit and is competent to use it.

Smart Mufti

This is worn for theatre trips and to all major events given in School. Clothes should be smart and comfortable. Please limit the number of pairs of shoes that the girls bring.

Sports Kit (mouthguards, goggles)

Mouthguards can be ordered from a specialist company called Titan which visits the School in the first half of term, and goggles are compulsory for Lacrosse and strongly recommended for squash.

Teddy

Bears

These are a vital part of the House community and will be very welcome but please do remember that these must fit in the bed with your daughter!

Toiletries

Please name these to avoid confusion in the bathrooms. Small sizes of toiletries are more convenient. Girls should bring separate shampoo and conditioner (for nit combing). Shower gel is easier to use than soap and a shower cap is useful. The House has a small supply of sanitary products, but your daughter should have some of her own and be confident about using them. Don’t forget the deodorant but please avoid aerosols. The School Shop stocks a small supply of toiletries for emergencies.

Torch

A hand held torch and batteries may be brought.

Towels

Towels, clearly named and with a hanging loop.

Tuck

This should be mostly small sweets. Please do not provide chewing gum. Pot Noodles or other ‘meal replacements’ are not allowed because they encourage girls to miss proper meals. Arrangements can be made for a limited amount of credit to be put on her Squid Card for girls to purchase tuck.

Tuck Box

These larger, lockable wooden or plastic boxes (approx L50cm x W30cm x H30cm) are useful places to store personal items (but not sweets) and can be bought from department stores. Please also provide a padlock.

Uniform

See uniform section on page 30. Please note that there will only be sufficient hanging space for uniform.

Wacky Bs/Birthdays

This is a basket given to each girl on her birthday and comprises small presents up to the value of £5, donated by every girl in her year group. All girls should come with a small selection of gifts to be donated to the Wacky B. (There are always quite a few birthdays in the Michaelmas term.) Remember to stock up at exeats. The Housemistress will advise how many birthdays there are each term.

Water Bottle

Regular hydration is important and a bottle is compulsory for all trips offsite, as well as being useful for a night time drink.

Academic Progress

Lower School Curriculum

The curriculum in Remove (11+) and in Lower Fourth (12+) is designed to give as much variety of educational experience as possible. A large number of subjects make up the timetable. Five periods a week are devoted to English and Mathematics, each of which is regarded as a foundation subject upon which rests the future performance in Arts and Science subjects. In all subjects girls receive an important grounding in fundamental skills.

In the Remove, French and Mathematics are taught in divisions, rather than the form in which a girl is placed. In Remove, previous experience in French helps to determine the division. In Mathematics they are taught in their form for the first term and then put in divisions. Latin is taught in divisions from the Lower Fourth in addition to French. Movement between divisions is possible.

During the Lower Fourth, every girl spends one term in France following a course produced in consultation with our Heads of Department and are taught, as far as possible, in French. Mathematics and French are taught in bands.

We also offer a lesson titled Lyceum Learning. The aim of this programme is to develop philosophical thinking and dialogue, which underpin an examination of the contemporary world.

A programme of enrichment lectures is offered to all girls in Lower School. These sessions enable girls to widen their knowledge of the world and current affairs; they promote and encourage the girls to think outside the classroom.

A Personal, Health and Social Education programme, which continues until the end of Sixth Form, encourages the development of important skills.

At the end of these two years, we would expect girls to have developed the following skills and values:

1 Expressing themselves fluently and clearly both orally, in writing and using IT when appropriate.

2 Reading aloud confidently.

3 Writing legibly, yet speedily, with accurate spelling.

4 Thinking both analytically, creatively and spatially.

5 Appreciating School as a community necessitating 'give and take.'

6 Beginning to develop effective revision and examination techniques.

7 Good manners.

8 Having an awareness of the wider world and their place in it.

9 Continuing to develop a sense of morality with regard to their own actions and those of others.

10 Taking a pride in their work.

Remove Curriculum (Entry at 11+)

The year consists of three/four mixed-ability teaching groups. French and Mathematics are taught in divisions based initially on previous teaching. All subjects are compulsory. Girls may also learn one or two instruments and Speech and Drama. The following subjects are taught:

English French

Latin Mathematics

History

Art and Ceramics

Geography Drama

Religious Studies Information Technology

Music Biology/Physics/Chemistry

Physical Education

Technology (Food, Graphics, Resistant Materials, Textiles), Personal Health, Lyceum Learning and Social Education = Learning for Life (PSHE)

Optional Extra Subjects which are taken during prep time

One or two instruments

Singing

Speech and Drama

Tennis coaching

Squash coaching

Lower Fourth Curriculum

All subjects are compulsory at this stage. French, Latin and Mathematics are taught in divisions. The following subjects are taught:

English

French

Latin Mathematics

Biology/Physics/Chemistry

History

Geography

Religious Studies

Art and Ceramics Music

Drama Information Technology

Physical Education

Technology (Food, Graphics, Resistant Materials, Textiles),

Personal Health, Lyceum Learning and Social Education = Learning for Life (PSHE)

Optional Extra Subjects which are taken during prep time

One or two instruments

Singing

Speech and Drama

Squash Coaching

Tennis Coaching

Lower Fourth and the French Project

During the course of the Lower Fourth year all girls spend one term at our School in France. The Downe House French Project is intended to broaden the girls’ education by enabling them to spend a term living in France. This provides them with the opportunity to:

1 Improve substantially their command of French, wherever possible involving interaction with the local community.

2 Learn about the locality and the way of life of the local people, participating in it as much as possible, including visiting local schools and an old people’s home.

3 Study the geography and history of the area.

4 Produce a journal requiring the use of a variety of resources, including local museums and libraries.

5 Learn about the political structure of France, especially its local government.

6 Maintain existing numeracy skills and scientific awareness.

7 Use the environment to inspire art and craft work, some with a technological element.

8 Take part in a major expedition outside the locality.

Term in France

Girls in the LIV are provided with a unique opportunity to experience life in France, the French culture and language at the 18th Century Chateau de Sauveterre in the Michaelmas term. The whole year group is able to take part in the adventure together and there is no better way to develop independence, confidence as well as making lifelong memories. Each girl has the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture. Teaching and learning are of the utmost importance and all lessons except English and Mathematics are delivered in French as far as is practical. Photography also features in the curriculum together with French culture lessons, Sport, wellbeing and Art, as well as traditional subjects such as History and Geography. Full information regarding the term in France will be given well in advance.

Second Language and Creative Subject Choices

Towards the end of the Lower Fourth year girls are invited select the languages they would like to study in the Upper Fourth. They may add German, Spanish, Italian or Chinese to their Upper Fourth

curriculum. Classical Greek is also offered at this stage. The new languages may be in addition to or instead of French and Latin. Girls also choose the creative subjects they wish to combine in the Upper Fourth. They can exercise choice in relation to Art, Drama, Design, Music and Textiles. Girls should be mindful of the workload involved in taking on new subjects and may continue with up to a total of four languages or creative subjects in the Upper Fourth.

What happens if I have a concern about my daughter’s progress or academic work?

Please feel free to get in touch with the Assistant Head (Lower School) , your daughter’s Housemistress or Academic Tutor. They work closely together and will liaise as appropriate over any concerns that you may raise.

How will I hear of my daughter’s general progress?

In addition to the contact that you will have with the Assistant Head (Lower School), your daughter’s Housemistress and Academic Tutor, you will also have the opportunity to meet the staff who teach her and care for her early in the first term at the first exeat. There is a Parents’ Meeting twice a year in the Remove to Upper Fourth for you to discuss your daughter’s progress directly with her teachers.

What are the arrangements for prep?

Prep is timetabled, as far as possible, into your daughter’s working day and is supervised up to the Upper Fourth. Generally, at the beginning of her School career, she will be able to complete her prep during these times, although she may find that she has to work in the evenings in the House, especially if she has a number of extra lessons, for example, Music and Speech and Drama.

If my daughter has difficulties with her prep, what should she do?

Please do not worry if your daughter takes time to adjust to the demands of prep. This is quite normal. However, if you are concerned, please do talk to the Assistant Head (Lower School), her Housemistress or her Academic Tutor, who will be monitoring her workload.

Academic Enrichment

Lectures for the Lower School provide a programme of academic enrichment designed for Remove and Lower Fourth girls, aimed at inspiring our younger pupils to develop a love of learning outside the classroom.

We are fortunate at Downe House to have a passionate team of staff willing to give of their time to enrich the girls’ knowledge and experiences in their own subjects. We also invite outside speakers.

Below are examples of lectures and enrichment sessions which the girls have recently experienced:

• Lower School Debating Society

• House Science Competition

• Medley Lecture: Anthony Geffen, CEO of Atlantic Productions and world leader in documentary film making

• Murray Centre Residencies

• Festival of Literature

• Author Talk: An evening with Fleur Hitchcock

• World Book Day

• Spelling Bee

• Creative Writing Workshop

Reading

We believe strongly in the importance of reading, and each evening girls will have the opportunity for silent reading during Little Lights from 8.45pm-9.15pm. Please find here a link to our School's reading list, curated by our librarian Mrs Hill.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

Downe House School Shop. Tel: 01727 815201. Email: downehouse@stevensons.co.uk

To order uniform online, go to www.stevensons.co.uk

All queries about shop cards etc should be directed to the School Shop.

What will my daughter be expected to wear for formal occasions?

All girls should have an outfit suitable for formal occasions:

1 A smart skirt of an appropriate length or a smart pair of trousers with an appropriate shirt.

2 Appropriate smart, sensible shoes, which may be uniform shoes (black only).

3 Appropriate tights must be worn.

4 Discreet jewellery may be worn with smart mufti at the Housestaff’s discretion.

Informal clothing such as denim skirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts are not acceptable items for formal wear but, a small amount may be brought as comfortable mufti. Please do name everything.

What mufti will my daughter need?

Mufti clothes should be practical and are strictly limited due to limited hanging space. These should be neat and in a good state of repair. Girls should have three changes of clothes in School (one set of comfortable mufti).

What happens to my daughter’s laundry?

Laundry is taken care of by the School Laundry and the system will be explained carefully to the girls by your daughter’s Housemistress in September. She will need to be ready to take responsibility for the care of her clothes and be aware of how often things need to be washed.

There is no extra charge for the regular laundering of bed linen, towels or personal clothing. This is done weekly. All items should be clearly named and suitable for machine-washing and tumbledrying. It would help your daughter if she were able to sew on a name label. Whilst the Housestaff will help her do this, it will save time and reduce the risk of losing an item if she can sew on a label herself. Please rest assured the organisation of personal laundry will be monitored very carefully by the Housestaff so that the highest standards of personal hygiene are set. Any spills or accidents will be

dealt with sensitively and promptly.

Dry cleaning can be arranged if necessary through the Housestaff for an additional cost. Dry clean only items should be kept to a minimum. Your daughter should bring two dozen nametapes at the beginning of the Michaelmas term for emergency use. Sports kit may be washed in the School Laundry and should be taken home at each exeat to be washed. Any items brought back after the initial arrival should also be clearly named. Hand washing of items is not permitted in the boarding houses.

Jewellery

During the working day girls are able to wear a single unobtrusive pendant such as a cross, Star of David or St Christopher. They may also wear one pair of plain stud earrings. At weekends, a modest amount of additional jewellery may be worn. Please note that NO VALUABLE items should be brought to school.

Hair, make-up and general appearance

Your daughter will be expected to look neat and tidy at all times. She should bring a small sewing kit back with her for the repair of her uniform. The school reserves the right to buy uniform on your behalf if your daughter does not have all the necessary items stated on the uniform list or if her uniform is in a state of ill repair.

Your daughter will not be permitted to bleach or dye her hair unsuitably. It should also not be cut in such a way (for example with a long fringe) which prevents it from being neatly held away from her face. If it is long, it will need to be tied back during the working day with a dark, plain clip or hair tie. No make-up or nail varnish or acrylic nails may be worn. Piercings, braids and tattoos are not allowed.

Second-Hand Uniform (Hand me Downe)

Visit the shop at https://www.handmedowne.net/ or email handmedowne@downehouse.net to organise the donation of old uniform. All the proceeds go to the Downe House Foundation, our charitable trust that supports bursaries, restoration and campus development projects.

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL

Purchase voucher from School Shop and redeem at www.thenametapecompany.com. Delivery is 3-5 working days

Casio FX-83GTX/FX-85GTX calculator Recommended by the Maths department or Casio FW-991CW (which is recommended for the Upper School)

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL

Not Available from the School Shop

SCHOOL UNIFORM

1 pair Black leather shoes - flat, offering good arch support (no moccasins or ballet pumps)

PE/SPORTS KIT

1 Boil and Bite mouthguard (NOT white or clear)

for start of term and summer Lacrosse Camp

1 Custom fitted mouthguard – made and fitted by TITAN (see separate information) 1 pair

– for outdoor use only (no Nike Air Force or other fashion trainers)

for medium to high impact support

SCHOOL UNIFORM - LOWER SCHOOL

Not Available from the School Shop

1

Plain dark coloured hair ties for when uniform is worn

Coat hangers – including skirt hangers

Sewing kit and shoe cleaning kit

Music case, if appropriate

Pencil case

Small, lockable storage box for personal items

Sweetie/tuck box

Purse and watch (both named)

Water bottle (named)

AA batteries for House safes

Microsoft Surface laptop and headphones

Compulsory for all off-site trips

Compulsory. These can be leased from the School and further details will follow. For late applicants, these may have to be bought rather than leased. Wireless headphones/set with Bluetooth capability (There is no headphone jack on the latest models of Microsoft Surface)

Additional Information

SCHOOL RULES

School Code of Conduct

The School sees education as a partnership. Our staff are committed to excellence, aiming to achieve a spirit of trust and co-operation. We expect our pupils to uphold the highest values and standards of behaviour inside and outside the classroom, as well as outside the School and in any written or electronic communication concerning the School. Parents are expected to support the School in managing expectations of behaviour and the provisions of this Policy, both at home and at School. We expect pupils to treat members of staff with courtesy and cooperation so that they can learn in a relaxed but orderly atmosphere, and to respond positively to the opportunities and demands of School life. We expect pupils to be ready to learn and to participate in school activities. They should attend school and lessons punctually. They should care for the buildings, equipment and furniture. We expect pupils to behave at all times in a manner that reflects the best interests of the whole School community. Everyone has a right to feel secure and to be treated with respect at the School, particularly the vulnerable. Harassment and bullying in any form will not be tolerated, including online or outside of school. Our Behaviour Management Policy and our Prevention of Bullying Policy are on SchoolBase as well as on the School’s website. The School takes its duties under the Equality Act 2010 seriously and makes appropriate reasonable adjustments for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND or certain health conditions). The School is strongly committed to promoting equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, religion, culture, sex, gender, sexual orientation, special educational needs, disability or learning difficulty, or the fact that a child is adopted, looked after or is a carer. The School reserves the right to take disciplinary action against pupils who are found to have deliberately invented or made malicious accusations, whether against other pupils, staff or other individuals.

School Rules

The School Rules are designed to allow all pupils to learn and thrive in an educational environment that is safe and inclusive. They should be read in conjunction with the School’s disciplinary and safeguarding policies and the Parental Contract (Terms and Conditions), copies of which can be found on Pupil and Parent Portals (SchoolBase). The School may amend any of its policies from time to time and without notice. The Pupil and Parent Portals (SchoolBase) should be checked on a regular basis for updates.

When do the School Rules apply?

The Rules apply to all pupils at the School, whether day or boarding. The Rules apply whilst pupils are:

(a) on the School site;

(b) off the School site but under the lawful control or charge of a member of staff (for example, whilst on a School trip);

(c) off the School site or otherwise not under the lawful control or charge of a member of staff but are wearing School uniform or are in some other way identifiable in connection with the School; and

(d) in any circumstances where a pupil is acting in a manner which could adversely affect the reputation of the School, the orderly running of the School or which poses a threat to another pupil or member of the public.

The Rules apply to all parents whilst their child is a pupil at the School.

Uderlying Principles

i) To uphold the School’s Values;

ii) To encourage pupils to show respect, good manners, punctuality and consideration for others.

iii) To keep pupils safe; protected from abuse of any kind.

iv) To encourage the academic, personal and social development of all pupils.

v) To facilitate effective communication between parents, pupils and School.

vi) To provide an environment of good discipline in which selfdiscipline is developed and all pupils can flourish.

Key Rules

1. General courtesy is required around the School: for example, girls should use appropriate language at all times, remember to hold doors open for others, arrive for all lessons or commitments punctually.

2. Every girl must treat her environment and all property and belongings with respect.

3. Every girl must avoid disruptive/anti-social behaviour.

4. Girls who have permission to go out must ensure that they are always in a group with at least two other girls.

5. All girls up to and including the LVI must have permission from their Housemistress/master to use a taxi, or the permission of the Palmer Centre to use a taxi for medical appointments.

6. Borrowing anything without the permission of the owner is not allowed.

7. Visits from family are welcomed at the weekend. However, guests (whether family or friends) should never wander around the site unaccompanied and should always make their visit known to the Housemistress/master.

8. The use of cars is strictly limited and any girl wishing to bring a car to School must have the permission of the Headmistress and abide by the set procedures and, in particular, with regard to lifts. No School pupil may travel in the car of another School pupil, or another pupil’s parents, unless written permission has been given by her parents.

9. Every girl must observe the fire procedures as displayed on the House Boards. Girls should note that on hearing the alarm, they must go quickly and in SILENCE to the designated assembly points.

10. Girls should attend all meals.

11. Full School uniform must be worn at all times during the School day.

12. No jewellery other than a discreet pendant and chain, a watch and one small pair of studs in the ears, as appropriate, may be worn during the School day; hair of shoulder length must be tied back; no nail varnish or make-up may be worn (in Lower and Upper Schools). Hair should not be dyed inappropriately. Body piercing and tattooing are not permitted. Mufti (non-School uniform dress) must be tidy and appropriate.

13. To preserve the Cloister area, girls must not walk on the grass except in the designated areas and must treat this with the utmost respect.

14. Girls are not permitted to undertake any form of trading, unless they have arranged this with a member of staff and have the permission of the Deputy Head (Pastoral). This restriction includes the use (either as buyer or seller), of internet-based auction sites, such as eBay, as well as the purchase or sale of private property such as CDs.

15. As chewing gum is often the cause of damage to clothing, carpets and paths when not disposed of properly, it is not permitted on site.

16. Drones or other pilotless aircraft may not be brought into School.

IMPORTANT: Any of the following behaviours along with any other act or omission that is criminal and/or illegal is likely to result in suspension or permanent exclusion:

i) Drug, alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, vaping or other substance misuse (including supply, possession or use).

ii) Bullying (including cyber bullying, prejudice-based and discriminatory bullying).

iii) Physical assault/threatening behaviour.

iv) Fighting.

v) Sexual harassment.

vi) Racist or sexist abuse.

vii) Sexual misconduct including sexting and/or the consensual or non-consensual sharing of nudes/semi-nudes.

viii) Theft.

ix) Damage to property.

x) Cheating in examinations including coursework, and not following the code of conduct for examinations.

xi) Misuse of the School’s IT system.

xii) Bringing prohibited Items or other illegal, inappropriate or dangerous items into School;

xiii) Misconduct which adversely affects or is likely to adversely affect the welfare of a member or members of the School community.

xiv) Misconduct which brings or is likely to bring the School into disrepute.

xv) Making a deliberately invented or malicious allegation against a member of staff or pupil or the School.

xvi) Persistent breaches of the School’s policies or other disruptive or anti-social behaviour.

xvii) Refusing to participate in a drugs test or a with-consent search when asked to do so by a member of staff in accordance with the relevant policy.

xviii) Leaving the School’s campus without the permission of an HsM or other relevant member of staff.

Prohibited Items

i) knives or weapons;

ii) alcohol;

iii) illegal drugs;

iv) stolen items;

v) tobacco & cigarette papers;

vi) fireworks;

vii) pornographic images;

viii) any articles that the member of staff suspects has been or is likely to be used to commit an offence or to cause personal injury or damage to the property of any person (including the pupil);

ix) replica knives and weapons;

x) ammunition;

xi) drugs which lead to legal highs;

xii) equipment relating to illegal drugs or drugs which lead to legal highs;

xiii) vapes and e-cigarettes; and xiv) steroids

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of pupils, the following guidance is important.

1. Conduct for public examinations.

2. Observance of the out of bounds rules.

3. Observance of health and safety rules in Houses, classrooms, during sport and other activities and around the campus.

4. Rules related to driving a car, other motorised vehicles or bicycles either in the School grounds or outside them, during term time.

The School Rules should be read in conjunction with the School’s other disciplinary and safeguarding policies, listed below, copies of which can be found on the Pupil and Parent Portals (SchoolBase).

1. Behaviour Management Policy

2. Prevention of Bullying Policy

3. Drug/Substance Abuse Policy

4. Alcohol Policy

5. Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

6. Equal Opportunities and Valuing Diversity Policy

7. Internet and Social Networking Policy for pupils

8. Information Systems Acceptable Use Policy

9. Permanent Exclusion and Removal Policy and procedure

In addition to the core disciplinary and safeguarding policies, the School has a number of other policies, some of which only apply to particular departments or activities. Pupils should also familiarise themselves with these as failure to comply with them may lead to the imposition of a sanction.

Persistent breach of these policies and this guidance is likely to result in the imposition of a suspension or permanent exclusion; individual breach of these is likely to result in the imposition of a Minor Sanction.

BEHAVIOUR

At Downe House, our community is based upon the characteristics known as the Downe House DNA: Compassion, Collaboration, Resilience, Creativity, Aspiration, Communication and being Outward Looking.

Accordingly, the School aims to encourage pupils to adopt the highest standards of behaviour, principles and moral standards and to respect the ethos of the school. Promoting the emotional well-being of all of our pupils is key to their development. We aim to teach trust and mutual respect for everyone. We believe that good relations, good manners and a secure learning environment play a crucial part in the development of intellectually curious pupils, who are motivated to become life-long learners. We aim to develop qualities of teamwork and leadership through our extensive programme of extra-curricular activities. It is expected that everyone will take a common responsibility for maintaining only the highest standards of personal conduct in accordance with the aims and objectives of the School.

The School is an inclusive community and we welcome pupils from a wide variety of ethnic and social backgrounds and faiths. We treat everyone as an individual and aim to develop the whole person equipped to take their place in the modern world.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

We want Downe House to be an inclusive and supportive place. Therefore, we are committed to encouraging equity, diversity, inclusion and a sense of belonging among all members of the School community, and eliminating unlawful discrimination. We are committed to ensuring all pupils, parents and staff feel that they belong and are supported in celebrating their individuality. The Equality Act (2010) incorporates nine Protected Characteristics, which we apply with the aim to safeguard the Downe House community from prejudice and discrimination. These refer to: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Throughout the year, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) committee prepares workshops to raise awareness and celebrate a wide range of cultural and religious days to acknowledge our diverse pupil body.

Rewards

At Downe we reward and encourage good behaviour, demonstration of the School’s DNA and celebrate academic, co-curricular and sporting achievements from our pupils. A wide range of rewards are available to acknowledge pupils’ successes and efforts, and there are a series of ‘levels’ for rewards (academic and pastoral) through which pupils may progress. Pupils should be praised, whenever appropriate, for work, effort and any other actions both orally in House, in class and in writing. There should be written praise on all appropriate pieces of written work,

together with clear targets of how further improvements could be made. Teachers or any other member of staff with pastoral responsibility for pupils are responsible in the first instance for issuing rewards (such as Commendations and Stars). There is a series of ‘levels’ for rewards (academic and pastoral) through which pupils may progress. Rewards can come in the form of electronic postcards from their Tutor; certificates awarded in assembly by Assistant Head or Headmistress or via an annual prize awarded by a Governor among others. However this lists of Rewards are not exhaustive; other ways in which pupils’ work and effort are acknowledged and rewarded include: Personal notes to pupils in recognition of excellent work and/or effort by Heads of Department; Presentation of vouchers in assembly and in Houses at the end of term; spontaneous book prizes; School prizes (awarded annually after consultation with the Staff); Colours: PE (awarded for the different sporting disciplines on a termly basis); Colours: Drama and Music (awarded termly or annually to celebrate personal achievement).

Sanctions

It is hoped that pupils will respond to the School's positive encouragement and rewards and will comply with the School Rules at all times. However, the School acknowledges that from time to time, pupils' conduct may fall below the standards of behaviour reasonably expected by the School. Sanctions assist the School in enforcing the School Rules and help the School to set boundaries and to manage unacceptable or challenging behaviour from pupils. All Academic Sanctions are designed to provide a supportive environment that enables inappropriate classroom behaviour and/or academic practices to be modified. Any sanctions will be applied fairly, reasonably, and proportionately and, where appropriate, after due investigative action has taken place. There is a series of ‘levels’ for sanctions (Academic, Prep and Pastoral) through which pupils may progress. Each section has a Sanctions Ladder. This details the different sanctions at each level for each transgression. Sanctions may undergo reasonable change from time to time but will never involve any form of unlawful or degrading activity. Corporal punishment is illegal and is never used or threatened at the School.

Full details of behaviour expectations, rewards and sanctions can be found in the Behaviour Management Policy.

Non-negotiables expection in lessons

The School Council, which is made up of pupil representatives from each part of the School, agreed to a set of non-negotiable expectations about conduct in lessons and pupils taking responsibility for their own learning journeys which are outlined below. Each pupil is expected to adhere to these expectations and failure to do so is likely to result in a Sanction being issued.

1. Respect for others

a. Not distracting others

b. Not talking when teacher is talking

c. Open mindset for discussion on topical conversations

2. Punctuality & Preparation

a. Coming with correct equipment to lessons

b. Ensuring Surface is charged

3. Appropriate usage of Surfaces

4. Being appropriately engaged during each lesson

Suspension or Permanent Exclusion

The Headmistress may suspend or, in serious or persistent cases, permanently exclude a pupil if they consider their behaviour or conduct is unsatisfactory. Examples of behaviour which may result in this are listed under ‘Key Rules’. Suspension or permanent exclusion may also be imposed where unsatisfactory behaviour has continued despite previous disciplinary sanctions and/or warnings. Suspension will usually be served immediately. However, in exceptional circumstances and at its sole discretion, the School may postpone the start date of suspension or decide that the suspension is to be served over two split periods. If a suspension

is imposed at the end of term, it will not be served until the beginning of the next term. Following their permanent exclusion or whilst suspended, a pupil may not: enter the School site without the permission of the Headmistress of Deputy Head; or join any school trips and will not receive a refund for any monies paid for such trips.

A pupil may be suspended whilst an incident which the Headmistress considers may involve that pupil and which the Headmistress considers may result in the suspension or permanent exclusion of one or more pupils is being investigated. This is a neutral act. During any periods of suspension period, the School will continue to provide the pupil with work and the pupil is expected to maintain their academic work. At the end of the period of the suspension, depending upon the outcome of the investigation, the pupil may return to School and/or a disciplinary sanction may be imposed.

Other Sanctions

The measures below may be used as either Academic or Pastoral Sanctions and are designed to provide a supportive environment which enables inappropriate behaviour to be modified. Use of sanctions must be recorded on the Management Information System (MIS).

a) Assistant Head (Sections) Report - a pupil may be sent to the relevant Assistant Head and be put on Head of Section (Assistant Head (Sections)) report.

b) On Report –to be used by the Deputy Head, Deputy Head Pastoral or Assistant Head (Sections) and involves a pupil reporting to the relevant member of staff at set points in the day for a period of time. This may be given in conjunction with other sanctions i.e., weekend gating.

c) Headmistress’s Report – to be used by the Headmistress and involves a pupil reporting to the Headmistress at set points in the day for a period of time. This may be given in conjunction with other punishments i.e., weekend gating/Deputy Head detention. Parents will be informed by the HsM or a member of LT.

d) Fines – to be issued in response to offences relating to smoking or vaping.

SANCTIONS IN RELATION TO SMOKING AND VAPING

A pro-active, supportive, and educational approach is taken by the School in order to prevent pupils engaging with smoking and vaping, both of which are illegal below the age of 18 and not permitted in school or on any school activity at any time. However, where pupils do not engage with such pastoral support and breaches of School policy occur there will be potentially very serious consequences.

Please note that in some circumstances pupils may be required to complete a period of community service an alternative sanction to a fine.

1. First offence – a pupil will be gated for one weekend (this will be the next appropriate weekend); parents will be informed; a £10 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses; and they will be placed on House report for one week.

2. Second offence – a pupil will be gated for two consecutive weekends (these will be the next appropriate ones); parents will be informed; a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses, and they will be placed on Head of Section report for one week.

3. Third offence – a pupil will be internally suspended for three days. They will be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses. Parents will be informed.

4. Fourth offence – a pupil will externally suspended for four days. They will return on a Behaviour Contract which will set out the terms required to remain at Downe House and be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses.

5. Further offences will be dealt with in line with the conditions of the Behaviour Contract but are likely to include permanent exclusion.

The Supply of Smoking and Vaping Materials

Selling Smoking and Vaping Materials

Any pupil who is caught selling tobacco or vape(s) or assisting/ supporting someone to supply tobacco or vape(s) or where there are reasonable grounds that on the balance of probabilities this has occurred, the following sanctions will be applied

Please note that in some circumstances pupils may be required to complete a period of community service an alternative sanction to a fine.

The Provision of Smoking and Vaping Materials

Any pupil who is caught providing tobacco or a vape(s) or assisting/supporting someone to supply tobacco or vapes or where there are reasonable grounds that on the balance of probabilities this has occurred, the following sanctions will be applied:

Please note that in some circumstances pupils may be required to complete a period of community service an alternative sanction to a fine.

1. First offence – a pupil will be internally suspended for three days. They will be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses. Parents will be informed.

2. Second offence – a pupil will be externally suspended for four days. They will return on a Behaviour Contract which will set out the terms required to remain at Downe House and be on Head’s Report for a minimum of seven days and a further £15 fine will be paid to Macmillan Nurses.

3. Further offences will be dealt with in line with the conditions of the Behaviour Contract but are likely to include permanent exclusion.

The above also applies to those who are found with smoking or vaping paraphernalia on them or in their belongings, whether knowingly or unknowingly. All pupils who are involved in smoking or vaping incidents will be required to spend time with the Health Centre so that help and support can be provided. They would be expected to engage positively with this. Any pupil who needs help or support in relation to smoking or vaping may also go to the Health Centre for help and advice. A more lenient view, from that above, may be taken where there are significant mitigating circumstances. This may include a pupil who proactively seeks help and guidance and agrees to a programme of support. It could also involve parents coming forward actively seeking help on behalf of their daughters and themselves.

Alcohol

No alcohol may be brought into School. If a pupil is caught drinking (unless at an authorised event), in the presence of drinkers, drunk or smelling of alcohol, or with alcohol in her possession she should be escorted to her Housemistress (in her absence the Assistant Housemistress). The incident must be reported to the Headmistress, Deputy Headmistress, Deputy Head (Pastoral) or other relevant Senior member of staff e.g. Assistant Heads (Sections). The Headmistress may give permission to breathalyse the pupil to confirm the consumption of alcohol. A pupil whose condition gives cause for concern may be required to go to the Health Centre. Pupils who have alcohol in their possession without permission will have it taken away or disposed of. Pupils holding a position of responsibility may lose it temporarily or permanently. Parents will be notified and relevant

sanction applied in accordance with the Behaviour and Discipline Policy at the discretion of the Headmistress; this may include, but is not limited to Headmistress’ Report or suspension.

Drugs/Illegal Substances

No illegal drugs/substances may be brought into School. The school definition of drugs includes illegal drugs (those categorised as A, B or C) and those substances that are misused to create a so called ‘legal high’. These include Nitrous Oxide, Alkyl Nitrates (Poppers), ketamine, Khat, MKET, volatile substances, prescribed medication as well as controlled drugs, but this is not an exhaustive list. In addition, performance enhancing drugs, as defined by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, fall within the scope of this policy. A pro-active, supportive, and educational approach is taken by the School in order to prevent pupils engaging with illegal drugs/substances. However, where pupils do not engage with such pastoral support and breaches of School policy occur there will be potentially very serious consequences. Any involvement of a Downe House pupil with illegal drugs/substances (including, without limitation, any pupil discovered possessing, supplying, taking or being under the influence of drugs/substances) will constitute an incident of misconduct and will be treated with the utmost severity, in most cases it is likely to lead to permanent exclusion. The School reserves the right to test pupils randomly and at its discretion for the consumption of illegal substances/drugs, as stated in the Terms and Conditions. The decision to test a pupil for the consumption of illegal substances/drugs lies with the Headmistress often on the advice of the Deputy Head, DSL or another senior member of staff. Random drugs testing acts as a deterrent and should be seen as supportive rather than punitive. An approved independent centre/agent would be used to test for substances/drugs. If the School has particular concerns, it may require a search to be carried out of any pupil, their personal possessions or room. This is for the protection of everyone involved

Internet Social Networking Policy for Pupils

Definition of Social Networking Social Networking applications include but are not limited to blogs, online discussion forums, collaborative spaces, media sharing services, micro-blogging applications. Examples include, but are not limited to Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, You Tube and can also include instant messaging systems (SMS) such as Whatsapp.

INTRODUCTION

1. The School recognises that Internet Social Networking sites are a useful way of interacting socially with friends and gathering information. The School accepts that pupils may use Social Networking applications on the Internet. While the School does not wish to discourage acceptable use of such sites on the Internet we expect certain standards of conduct to be observed in order to protect: The safety, welfare, confidentiality and dignity of staff, pupils, their families, and that of the wider community and the reputation of the School.

2. The way in which pupils present themselves on Social Networking sites can have an impact on the public perception of the School and influence the way in which pupils and staff are perceived by the wider community. In their use of Social Networking sites, pupils should be aware that their online behaviour can affect their integrity and dignity.

3. To avoid boundaries becoming blurred and any potential misunderstanding, pupils should not use Social Networking sites to communicate with staff of the School unless using approved School communication channels.

4. This policy applies both on and off site. The following principles apply equally to information or comments posted by pupils from their home, personal, school computers or smart devices. This is irrespective of whether the posts are uploaded during school hours or in personal time.

5. The pupils are responsible for the content they publish on their Social Media platforms, this policy’s primary aim is to provide pupils with guidance to keep them safe and avoid compromising situations which they later regret.

PROCEDURE

1. Pupils must not access Social Networking sites for personal use (TikTok etc.) during the academic day, unless otherwise specified by the relevant Assistant Head.

2. Use of any social media should be age appropriate and pupils should not misrepresent their date of birth to gain access to sites such as Instagram. It is not acceptable to clone someone else’s identity or using a false identity to set up a profile.

3. Pupils should not be ‘friends’ with staff on personal Social Networking sites as this could be viewed as a Safeguarding and Child Protection issue. Pupils may however, ‘follow’ or ‘friend’ official School accounts such as, but not limited to, @DHLINKS on twitter.

4. Pupils should remember that their profiles on Social Networking sites could directly link their behaviour outside of School with the reputation of Downe House. Any online conduct that could bring the School into disrepute or cause a negative impact on the school community is forbidden.

5. Online behaviour that could, in the opinion of the School, cause distress or jeopardise the safety, confidentiality, dignity or reputation of others, whether part of the Downe House community or not, is not acceptable.

6. Pupils should take adequate precautions when using Social Networking sites and applications, both in vetting material that could be connected to them (e.g. through their own friendship profiles) and through the appropriate use of security settings. Appropriate security settings should be used to maintain privacy. Social Networking sites which hold personal information and that do not have security settings in place should be avoided.

7. Security settings on Social Networking sites such as Facebook should be reviewed regularly by the pupils as these providers often update their security policies which may allow unauthorised access to pupil profiles without them being fully aware of such changes.

8. Pupils should be aware that once content is shared online it is possible for it to be circulated more widely than intended without prior consent or knowledge (even if content is thought to have been deleted or privately shared).

9. Pupils should not post/tag comments, photographs, video, or other content about any member of the community without their express permission. Downe House must not be tagged as a location or mentioned in any Social Media posts, blogs, tweets etc.

10. It is not acceptable to produce any material that is offensive, defamatory, discriminatory, or inappropriate about the School, staff or other pupils. This includes the use of bad language and any form of cyber bullying.

11. Any legal breaches online such as posting nude images would be dealt with by the police and the sanctions would be carried out in line with the law.

12. The School will monitor IT systems and Social Media Sites as is deemed necessary to prevent or detect inappropriate usage.

13. Transcripts or screenshots of Social Networking communications may be used in any disciplinary proceedings.

14. If pupils become aware of misuse of Social Networking sites by another pupil, they should inform their Housemistress/ master, Assistant Head of Section or member of the Leadership Team.

15. Pupils whose conduct breaches this policy in any way may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the School’s Behaviour and Discipline Policy.

16. This policy should be read in conjunction with the School’s, ‘Behaviour Management Policy’ and ‘IS: Acceptable Use Policy’.

17. It should be noted that online behaviour, deemed unsuitable by the Headmistress and in accordance with this policy, may have an impact on a pupil’s future relationship with Downe House. This includes, but is not limited to, references, support from the Foundation (including DH Links) and connections with the Downe House Seniors’ Association.

INFORMATION SYSTEMS (IS)

All those in the school community using the School’s IS network shall adhere to strict guidelines concerning appropriate use of network resources and associated infrastructure.

AI GUIDELINES

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool. AI, in this context, refers to computer systems and software that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as understanding natural language, recognising patterns, and making decisions. These AI tools, including language models like ChatGPT, offer immense potential in enhancing the learning experience. The following guidelines are designed to provide pupils and teachers at Downe House with a clear framework for the responsible and ethical use of AI in education. They aim to ensure that while we harness the benefits of AI, we also maintain academic integrity, protect privacy, and foster an environment of critical thinking and originality.

AI Guidelines for pupils

1. AI Usage: Be transparent Show academic honesty by acknowledging and citing any AI technology used in your work. Failing to do so goes against academic principles.

2. Responsible Use of AI: Do not cheat AI tools must not be used for cheating, plagiarism, or any other behaviour which is harmful to you or anyone else.

3. Original Effort: AI is a guide, not an author

AI-generated content should complement your effort and understanding. Ensure that your work is unique and reflects your understanding of the material.

4. Accuracy: check AI output for accuracy

Verify the accuracy of information received from AI language models (e.g., ChatGPT). Do not rely solely on the chatbot’s output; critically assess and validate the information.

5. Responsibility: Reference AI when using it. You are responsible for your AI technology usage. If you use AI to help with schoolwork, make sure you tell your teacher. Do not pretend that work from AI is your own.

6. Confidentiality & Privacy:

Don’t share private information Maintain the confidentiality of your interactions with AI tools like ChatGPT. Refrain from sharing any sensitive or personal information about yourself or others with the chatbot.

7. Monitoring and Consequences

Teachers at Downe House will monitor AI usage to ensure compliance with these guidelines. Breaching this policy may result in disciplinary action following the school’s sanctions’ framework.

8. Ethical Use of AI in Media Creation:

Use AI tools, including those for creating images or videos, ethically and responsibly. Do not create or distribute misleading, deceptive, or harmful content. Always respect the rights and dignity of others in your digital creations. Misuse may result in disciplinary action following the school’s sanctions’ framework.

GUIDELINES ON THE USE OF MOBILE PHONES

Mobile phones and other electronic devices should not be used in communal areas where they may disturb others e.g., the dining rooms or when walking around the School site.

Remove

• Phones are kept by Housestaff all day during the week.

• In the evening, after supper, girls may request to use their phone for up to 30 minutes (before 7.45pm). Phones are not allowed to be taken to dormitories.

• Girls may take their phones with them to any away Games matches.

• Girls may access phones when out on trips if appropriate (e.g. for safety reasons).

• At the weekends girls may have access to their phones for up to an hour each day.

• Phones and other devices with internet access such as tablets, smart watches and games consoles are handed in by 7.45pm each night.

Lower Fourth

• Phones are kept by Housestaff all day during the week.

• In the evening, after supper, girls may request to use their phone for up to 30 minutes (before 7.45pm). Phones are allowed to be taken dormitories.

• Girls may take their phones with them to any away Games matches.

• Girls may access phones when out on trips if appropriate (e.g. for safety reasons).

• At the weekends girls may have access to their phones for up to an hour each day.

• Phones are handed in by 8pm each night.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What happens when my daughter’s birthday falls during term time?

Birthdays are celebrated in style here at Downe House. Your daughter may organise a party in the Common Room. It is important that she asks permission first though and that Housestaff know who she has invited from other Houses.

Parents can bring in food or have it delivered from a local supermarket. If you are not able to arrange this or live overseas, the Housestaff will be able to organise party food for your daughter and/or a birthday cake and the charge will simply be put on the School bill. Food brought in must be nut free.

Is there provision for Roman Catholic girls to go to Mass?

Arrangements are made to escort girls to Mass at the local RC church in Thatcham. If you have any queries regarding this, please contact the School Chaplain. Provisions to attend other places of worship will be supported.

What will my daughter do at weekends and after School?

An imaginative programme of activities is organised for each year. Girls in their first year are guided by the Housemistress in their choice of activities in order to maintain a balance between School and House-based activities and excursions. It is our aim that girls should be kept busy and should return home in a healthy but satisfied state of exhaustion at the end of each term!

Are there activities at other times?

Your daughter will be able to take part in a variety of daytime activities too. All girls are strongly encouraged to pursue at least one co-curricular activity. Girls are expected to attend sessions

regularly and for at least one academic year, once they have decided to commit themselves. Your daughter’s Housemistress and Academic Tutor will keep an eye on her extra commitments to try to help her not to become overburdened. Enthusiasm sometimes has to be curtailed in the interest of survival, especially if she is learning one or more instruments, having Speech and Drama lessons, or sports coaching.

The cost of each activity to the pupil covers the materials used, the hire of equipment and some of the travel expenses, though these are generally subsidised by the School. Some activities, although co-curricular, employ the services of many outside specialists and are therefore regarded as an extra subject. Therefore parental permission is necessary each term before taking up or continuing an activity.

These activities may include:

Gym Club Squash Club

Debating Society

Ballet

Science Society

Lower School Drama Club

Polo (Summer Term only)

Football Club

Pottery Club Sailing (Summer term only)

Horse riding Christian Union

Tap Dance Jazz and Modern Dance

Pilates (UV upward)

Classical Society

Fencing

Politics Society

Will I be charged for weekend activities?

Prior to the start of each term, you will be asked to set a limit on the amount of money to be added to the School bill for weekend activities. Not all activities will incur a cost but all non-curricular trips will carry a charge towards the cost of the outing – transport and tickets etc. In the case of more expensive weekend trips, such as visits to the theatre, parents are asked to give their permission well in advance. Once committed, a ticket will be purchased for your daughter, so if she withdraws, the cost will still need to be met.

Are there opportunities to meet other parents?

There are many social events arranged in the course of the year for you to meet informally with other parents both in the House and at main School events. You are always welcome to join us for these!

ANNUAL WHOLE SCHOOL EVENTS

Michaelmas term

House Drama weekend (usually October) The majority of the School is involved in the annual festival of drama. Each Upper School House puts on a play on Sunday either before or after lunch. Parents are welcome to come and watch their daughters perform in their House play and individual houses offer to arrange a social gathering before or after their performance. There is an adjudicator, who announces the results to the School at the end of the competition.

Michaelmas Concert (November) The Concert programme involves as many girls as possible with the orchestras, choirs, ensembles and many individuals taking part. Parents are very welcome to attend this.

Carol Services Upper School have off-site Carol Services held towards the end of term in December. Further details will be sent closer to the date

Summer term

Sports Day (June/July) is held on the Saturday morning of Founder’s Weekend. Parents are encouraged to come and bring picnics to the sports fields. No parking is allowed on the field, so it is advisable to keep hampers light.

Founder’s Weekend (June/July) On the final weekend of the Summer term we hold ‘Founder’s Weekend’ in honour of the

founder of Downe House, Miss Olive Willis. Tradition is fused with all that the modern day Downe House offers in a full community celebration. The academic departments and boarding houses are open and there are interactive workshops and exhibitions around the School site. Sport, Music, Drama and the Creative Arts all contribute through tournaments, displays, proms, concerts, recitals, productions and a range of exhibits. There are sumptuous afternoon teas for visitors and girls to enjoy, picnics available for you to order in advance, and we normally conclude the weekend with a family Hog Roast BBQ with jazz music to accompany it on the terrace and lawns.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

Policies

All major policies can be found on the Parent Hub. Please ensure you have gone through them. All queries can be directed to the Administration Manager, who will redirect you to the appropriate department.

Downe House is committed to providing equal opportunities in both its admissions procedure and its pupils’ day-to-day education. A Pupils’ Equal Opportunities Policy is adhered to, and is supplemented by an additional Disability Policy – both of which are reviewed annually and are freely available on request.

To ensure the effectiveness of these Policies, the School monitors the composition of current pupils attending the School, as well as applicants for admission.

Any breach of the Pupils’ Equal Opportunities Policy – by either pupils or employees of the School – is viewed very seriously and disciplinary action may be taken where appropriate.

In addition to these major events, there are many smaller events to which parents are invited – watching matches, parents’ lunches, family tennis tournaments to name but a few. A full programme of events appears every term in the Key Dates and Information booklet.

Headmistress – Mrs Emma McKendrick, Downe House, Hermitage Road, Cold Ash, Berkshire, RG18 9JJ

Chair of Governors – Ms Fru Hazlitt, c/o Downe House, Hermitage Road, Cold Ash, Berkshire, RG18 9JJ

Details of school policies are available on the School website, www.downehouse.net or email correspondence@downehouse.net for a hard copy on request from the School.

Academic Enrichment 29

Academic Progress 27

Academic Tutor 19, 22, 29

Activities 19, 21, 23

Advice 20, 21, 22

Airport Transfers 24

Alcohol 36, 38

Alateen, Alcohol Helpline 22

Assistant Head (Lower School) 6, 29

Batteries 26, 33

BEAT (Helpline) 22

Bedding 26

Birthdays (Wacky Bs) 24, 26, 40

Boarding Aims 4

Bullying 35, 36

Cakes 24

Calculator 26, 32

Carol Services 38, 40

Cartridge Pen 26

Chair of Governors 22, 23

Chewing Gum 35, 36

Childline 22

Children’s Commissioner 22

Code of Conduct 35, 36

Complaints 22, 33

Communication 35, 39

Contact 19, 20, 21, 22

Cyber Bullying 39

Counsellor (Psychotherapist) 22

Curriculum (Remove - LIV) 28

Daily Routine 21

Darwin 10, 11

Day Girls 19, 21

Dental 20

Devices 20, 24, 26, 39

Diet 20

Discipline 35, 38

Dressing-up 10

Drugs 36, 38

Dry cleaning 30

e - cigarettes (vapes and jouls) 36

Eating Disorders Helpline 22

EDI 36

Electrical Items 24, 26

Email 19, 20, 22

Enrichment (Academic) 29

Equal Opportunities Policy 36, 39, 41

Exeats 23, 24, 26

Facebook 19, 39

First Day 19, 20

Formal Occasions 30

Founder’s Weekend 40

Fruit 24

Games/Off Games 21

General appearance 30

Glasses 20

Hair 30, 35

Headmistress 4, 37, 41 Health 20, 21

Health Centre 19, 20 Help 21, 22

Hermitage 12, 13 Hill 14, 15

Homesickness 25

House Drama 23, 40

House Profiles 9

Hygiene 19, 30 Information Systems 36, 39 Independent Listener 22

Jewellery 26, 30, 35 Keeping in Touch 19, 20

Key Dates and 21, 40 Information

20