PARENT HANDBOOK 2013-2014
Contents WELCOME FROM THE HEADS ........................................................................................................................... 4 PHILOSOPHY & OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................................................. 5 COLLEGE LEADERSHIP TEAM ........................................................................................................................... 7 SENIOR SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM ............................................................................................................ 8 AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY ............................................................................................................................... 9 WHOLE SCHOOL INFORMATION................................................................................................................... 10 FEEDBACK AND COMMUNICATION ............................................................................................................ 10 STUDENT CONDUCT .......................................................................................................................................... 11 GENERAL INFORMATION – WHOLE COLLEGE .......................................................................................... 11
Bicycles __________________________________________________________ 11 Bus Service _______________________________________________________ 11 Earthquake and Fire Evacuation ____________________________________ 12 Emergency Communication ________________________________________ 12 Friends of Dulwich Beijing (Friends) ________________________________ 12 Lunches __________________________________________________________ 13 Medical Policy ____________________________________________________ 13 Parking and Pick-up and Drop-off __________________________________ 14 Security __________________________________________________________ 14 Sports Centre _____________________________________________________ 14 Sun Safety _______________________________________________________ 15
GENERAL INFORMATION - SENIOR SCHOOL ...................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
Daily Arrival and Departure _______________________________________ 15 Supervision Times at School _______________________________________ 15 Attendance _______________________________ Error! Bookmark not defined. Senior School Communication and Reports __________________________ 15 Lockers __________________________________ Error! Bookmark not defined. Uniform _________________________________________________________ 16
SENIOR SCHOOL ACADEMICS ........................................................................................................................ 18
Curriculum _______________________________________________________ 18 Homework _______________________________________________________ 18 Senior School Reports _____________________________________________ 19 English as an Additional Language (EAL) ____________________________ 19 Learning Support _________________________________________________ 19 Learning Technologies ____________________________________________ 19 How can parents support their children? _____________________________ 20 Useful Websites for Parents ________________________________________ 20
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STUDENT WELFARE AND GUIDANCE: PASTORAL CARE ...................................................................... 21
The House System ________________________________________________ 21
THE DULWICH CHALLENGE ............................................................................................................................ 22
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WELCOME FROM THE HEADS Dear Parents, The Dulwich College educational philosophy places equal emphasis on the development of a student’s intellectual and personal development. To that end we focus on four core areas throughout the school: academic excellence; participation in sport and physical education; involvement in a wide range of music and drama opportunities; and a commitment to service and community. Your support and involvement in your children’s education is a crucial element of their development and we encourage you to communicate regularly with us, as we will with you. This handbook will introduce you to school life, structure, policies and procedures. The first section includes information that is common to all three schools within the College, while the second section is specific to the Senior School. We recommend that you read it carefully before your child starts school, and keep it on hand for future reference. We trust this handbook will answer most of your questions about school, but to the extent it may not, please be assured that we are always happy to meet parents to answer their queries and listen to their feedback. David Mansfield, Headmaster Simon Herbert, Head of Senior School
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PHILOSOPHY & OBJECTIVES Our Philosophy and Objectives have been converted into child-friendly statements and linked to relevant values. 1.
We provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment. Our school is a fun and safe place to learn. VALUES: ENTHUSIASM AND KINDNESS
2.
We recognize that each child is unique. We can be ourselves. VALUES: CONFIDENCE AND CREATIVITY
3.
We challenge each child to be best they can be and support them in this. We all work together to do the best we can. VALUES: DEDICATION AND PERSEVERANCE
4.
We educate the whole child. We learn through everything we do. VALUES: OPEN-MINDEDNESS AND BALANCE
5.
We emphasis the benefits and responsibilities of working together. We play and work together as a team. VALUES: COLLABORATION AND TRUST
6.
We know that meaningful learning involves taking risks. We trust ourselves to try new things. VALUES: COURAGE AND FLEXIBILITY
7.
We value awareness of the natural world and its resources. We will try our best to take care of our world. VALUES: COMPASSION AND RESPONSIBILITY
8.
We prepare children to live their lives with a spirit of respect for themselves and others. We respect ourselves and others. VALUES: RESPECT AND INTEGRITY
9.
We aim to prepare them for a future that is unpredictable. I will be prepared for change. VALUES: ADAPTABILITY AND RESILIENCE
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COLLEGE LEADERSHIP TEAM David Mansfield, Headmaster Ruth Grant, Head of Junior School Simon Herbert, Head of Senior School Sarah Humphries, Head of Early Years Cynthia Maclean, Head of External Relations Jayne Scott, Bursar
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SENIOR SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM Simon Herbert, Head of Senior School Caroline Taylor, Deputy Head (Academic) Chris Lynn, Deputy Head (Pastoral) Melanie Ellis, Assistant Head (CPD and Planning) Richard Hawkins, Assistant Head (Assessment, Reporting and Tracking) Karla Hawkins, Head of KS3 Kenneth Hegarty, Head of KS4 Hugo Battersby, Head of IB
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DULWICH COLLEGE BEIJING Areas of Responsibility Position
Name
Areas of Responsibility
Headmaster
David Mansfield
Whole College, Staff, Community
Head of Senior School
Simon Herbert
All matters relating to the Senior School
Head of Junior School
Ruth Grant
All matters relating to KS2
Head of Early Years
Sarah Humphreys
All matters relating to Early Years
Bursar (until Sept. 2013)
Jayne Scott
Business management of all campuses; Fees
Bursar (from Sept. 2013)
Paola Morris
Business management of all campuses; Fees
Head of External Relations
Cynthia Maclean
Admissions, Marketing, Community
Head of Government Relations
Becky Jing
Government Relations
Director of Admissions
Choon Eichman
Admissions, Student Records
Senior Admissions Manager
Jane Ji
Early Years Admissions, Administration
Director of Marketing
Kasia Baran
Newsletter, Website, Advertising
Dulwich Community
TBD
Out of school programmes
Head of Finance
Liu Ying
Matters relating to Finance
Head of Human Resources
Maureen Huang
Matters relating to HR
e-mail david.mansfield@dulwich-beijing.cn simon.herbert@dulwich-beijing.cn ruth.grant@dulwich-beijing.cn sarah.humphreys@dulwich-beijing.cn jayne.scott@dulwich-beijing.cn paola.morris@dulwich-beijing.cn cynthia.maclean@dulwich-beijing.cn becky.jing@dulwich-beijing.cn choon.eichman@dulwich-beijing.cn Jane.Ji@dulwich-beijing.cn kasia.baran@dulwich-beijing.cn DCP@dulwich-beijing.cn ying.liu@dulwich-beijing.cn maureen.huang@dulwich-beijing.cn
Telephone 6454-9011 6454-9031 6454-9031 8450-7676 6454-9168 6454-9168 6454-9110 6454-9069 6454-9015 8450-7676 6454-9020 6454-9127 6454-9101 6454-9118
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WHOLE COLLEGE INFORMATION All of the information in this section applies to all schools within Dulwich College Beijing.
FEEDBACK AND COMMUNICATION Formal Written Communication on School Related Matters Curriculum Guides These documents describe in detail the curriculum followed in the Early Years, the Junior School and each of the Key Stages of the Senior School. These are available on our website: Foundation Stage: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=456 Key Stage One: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=457 Key Stage Two: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=455 Key Stage Three: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=395 Key Stage Four: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=396 IB: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=397
Website Useful information on our curriculum, welfare and guidance, activities and staffing can be found at www.dulwich-beijing.cn. Back-to-School Relevant information for the start of the school year can be found in this document, which is sent to parents and posted on the website. Parent Handbook Parent Handbooks are produced for each of the three schools, with information common to the whole school at the front.
Informal Written Communication on School Related Matters Newsletter This is a weekly digest highlighting news of the past week and providing information about upcoming events. The newsletter is delivered by email and hard copies are placed around school every Friday. Letters
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Letters are sent by email with the weekly newsletter. Text Message followed by E-mail When the College needs to reach all parents urgently (e.g., if school closes due to excessive snowfall), parents are sent a text message with basic information and asked to check their e-mail for details. The College This magazine contains articles and photos from recent events at Dulwich College Beijing as well as other Dulwich Colleges in Asia and London. Student Publications Various student groups produce regular publications, which are forwarded with the weekly newsletter on Fridays. Website The website contains reviews and notices of events, as well as information about the curriculum, operations and plans for the College. Email Parents are encouraged to contact teachers by email to book appointments or for clarification of policy. Extended communication over email is not advised as a substitute for face-to-face or telephone communication. Our email address format is as follows: givenname.surname@dulwich-beijing.cn
Informal Face-to Face Communication on School-related Matters Parents are always welcome to book appointments to discuss their child’s progress with teachers. The College also schedules regular events throughout the year, such as parent information sessions and parent forums, to provide information to parents and address their questions. These include parent information sessions, open days and parent forums, depending upon the school.
STUDENT CONDUCT At Dulwich College Beijing we encourage positive behaviour and in 2012-13 we undertook a comprehensive review of our behaviour policies. While the principles behind our policies are consistent, the application of those policies varies from school to school to ensure that the rewards and sanctions are age appropriate. Please read our Encouraging Positive Behaviour and Anti-bullying Policies in their entirety on our website: http://www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page.cfm?p=513
GENERAL INFORMATION – WHOLE COLLEGE Bicycles
Children riding their bicycles to school are asked to park them in the designated areas. We ask that you review traffic safety with your child repeatedly throughout the school year, but especially at the start of each new school year. Helmets are required for all students riding bicycles to and from school. Children are advised to lock their bicycles at all times.
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Bus Service
The school provides a bus service that is contracted through a local bussing company. School bus routes and stops are determined based on the requirements of those using the service, and may vary from year to year. We make every effort to meet the needs of our students. However, Beijing is a large city and we may not be able to accommodate children living in residential complexes far from the school and outside regular school bus routes. Seats are assigned on a first-come first-served basis. If you move during the course of the year, we will do our best to accommodate your needs but cannot guarantee a seat for your child on the bus route serving your new residence. Safety of the children on the bus is of paramount importance to us. To this end, all our buses are equipped with seat belts, mobile phones, emergency phone numbers and first aid kits. A bus monitor travels on each bus to ensure that the children remain in their seats with their seat belts fastened. If the bus is significantly delayed, the bus driver will notify the school office and the school office will notify parents. Traffic in Beijing is unpredictable at best, and tie-ups and gridlock are common events. We ask for your understanding and patience should your child’s bus be delayed in traffic. Students are expected to observe the same standard of behaviour on the bus as in the classroom. They are expected to respect the bus driver and monitor, and to observe the following rules, which are posted in each bus: • • • • • • • •
Remain seated with your seat belt fastened at all times. Respect your classmates and your bus monitor. Keep your voice down. Keep your head and hands inside the bus at all times. Keep your feet on the floor and off the seats. Leave chewing gum, sweets and candies at home. Eat your snack before boarding the bus or after you get home. Tell your bus monitor immediately if you feel sick.
Please note that neither eating nor drinking is allowed on the bus. Inappropriate behaviour by any student on the bus is unacceptable and if repeated will result in the denial of bus service with no fee refund.
Earthquake and Fire Evacuation
Earthquake and Fire Evacuation Plans are in place. These are posted on the walls in classrooms and around the school. Drills are held during the year to allow students and staff to practise and become familiar with the evacuation procedures. If you are on the school premises during an evacuation, please follow the evacuation procedures.
Emergency Communication
Should exceptionally severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances make it unsafe for the children to attend classes, information will be posted on the website and parents will be notified by SMS and email.
Friends of Dulwich Beijing (Friends)
Dulwich is very much a community school and involvement of parents is an integral part of our school life. All parents of Dulwich students are members of Friends of Dulwich Beijing and are encouraged to become actively involved. Friends hold an open meeting every month with the Headmaster and the Head of External Relations to discuss events within the school, fundraising projects and school
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developments. Friends also invite interested parents to become involved in various committees and to support class activities and events. Friends is run by the Friends Executive Committee, consisting of a Chairperson, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, five Campus Representatives, Charity Representatives, a Coffee & Books Representative, a Friends Shop Representative, School Representatives and four additional representatives. Friends activities include the Friends Newsletter, Connections Club, Culture Club Excursions, the annual Dulwich Charity Dinner Dance, the International Food Festival at Founder’s Day, the Friends School Shop and Coffee & Books Coffee Shop.
Lunches
The Lakeview Café at Legend Garden offers tasty, nutritional food to students. The daily menu includes a choice of an Eastern or Western dish. The café is run by the catering company, Culinary Capers, and students will purchase meals using a photo ID value card that can be loaded at the cashier station or online. We recommend an initial amount of RMB400 be loaded and reloaded as needed in increments of RMB100. Culinary Capers also provides food for children in Early Years classes. These children do not use a card for lunch; parents may pay for school lunch by the term or annually in advance. Students who do not wish to purchase the school lunch are welcome to bring their own cold meal. Parents are responsible for sending in a bag lunch for a child who either does not eat or is allergic to foods on the menu. All Dulwich lunches are nut-free so if you send a bag lunch, please do not send any nut or nut products with your child. In addition, we ask that you not include sweets, candies or sodas. If your child has a food allergy, it is essential that you note this clearly on the school Health / Medical form and provide a doctor’s letter describing the allergy, severity, typical reaction and treatment. Please also indicate any food restrictions, religious or otherwise.
Medical Policy
The school places exceptional importance on the health of our school children, and it is the responsibility of all members of the school community, parents and teachers alike, to keep the children healthy. If we find that a child has an illness or condition that will affect the health of his or her classmates, we will notify the parents to take the child home from school immediately. The following Medical Policy must be strictly observed:
Children must not be sent to school if they have any signs of fever or sickness. A student must be free of fever for 24 hours before returning to school.
For the sake of everyone’s health, children with heavy coughs or runny noses must not be sent to school even if they are not feverish.
Children who have been ill should be kept at home until they are able to fully participate in all school activities. Weather permitting, all children will go outside during playtime, and children recovering from illness will not be kept indoors. Children who are too sick to play outside are not well enough to be in school and in contact with the other children.
Children must not be sent to school if they have any signs of conjunctivitis, as it is highly contagious. They may only return to school after the full course of treatment has been completed and their eyes are completely clear.
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Children requiring medication for an illness should remain at home until the illness is cured. When they are essentially well but must continue with a day or two of treatment they may be sent to school. In this case, a Medicine Administration Form must be completed and given to the Teacher or Form Tutor along with the medicine to be given. Please let us know if your child is taking homeopathic medicines as well.
Children must not be sent to school if they are ill with chicken pox, and they may not return to school until the sores have healed and scabs have fallen off.
You must notify the school immediately if your child has head lice. Children with head lice must be treated with proper medicated shampoo and be completely free of both lice and eggs before returning to school.
In case of injury requiring medical treatment, the child's parents will be informed immediately and he/she will be taken to the nearest international medical facility.
Please be sure to keep vaccinations up to date.
All children entering the school are expected to have medical insurance coverage. Fees for a student's medical treatment are to be paid by the parent. The school will not assume medical expenses.
Parking and Pick-up and Drop-off
Every year, just before the start of school, we send all families a letter outlining the pick-up and dropoff procedures as these may change from time to time. Due to the large number of children being dropped off and collected, we ask that you and your driver comply with the guards instructions and observe extreme caution when driving near school.
Security
There is no issue the school takes more seriously than the safety of our students. At each campus we employ door monitors who are responsible for ensuring that unauthorised personnel do not enter the school and that students do not leave on their own initiative. We believe the students are very safe during the day on the school premises. We have instituted a number of procedures to ensure the journey to and from school each day is equally safe, and we require your assistance to make these procedures effective. All parents are encouraged to obtain a parent ID card. Receptionists at all campuses may assist with these arrangements.
Sports Centre
Located on the Legend Garden Campus, the Dulwich Legend Sports Centre provides students, parents and the community with access to a wide range of sports facilities and equipment. The club offers a 25-metre swimming pool, a sports hall, a multi-purpose sports dome, tennis courts, a dance/aerobics studio and a variety of resistance and cardiovascular training equipment. The club’s operating hours are 6 a.m.to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. When school is in session, only Dulwich students may use the swimming pool, sports hall and sports dome. Dulwich students receive free access to all of the club’s facilities and Dulwich parents are provided with special discounted pricing on membership fees. Contact the Sports Centre reception desk at 6454-9150 for more information or to set up a tour of the club.
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Sun Safety
We ask that students wear sun hats that are part of the school uniform and either bring sunscreen to be applied at school or apply it at home before coming to school during hot weather. During very hot weather, we may limit outdoor time. Water is available on the playground during the hot months.
GENERAL INFORMATION – SENIOR SCHOOL Arrival and Departure It is expected that once students have reached Year 7 they are responsible and mature enough to come to and from school without direct supervision. Students leaving the school during the school day are required to provide evidence from parents and have an early departure slip signed off and submitted to Reception.
Supervision Times at School Supervision of students starts at 8 a.m. We ask children not to arrive at school before this time as there may not be adult supervision. Supervision continues until 5 p.m., after which time we expect students to leave the premises unless they are involved in a recognised, supervised school activity.
Attendance The school environment is best placed to support learning, and students are expected to maintain the highest possible levels of attendance of lessons. However, learning takes place in many places, and enrichment activities form a key part of the Dulwich Philosophy. To help students maintain a balance in all that they do, the following guidelines are applied: Every student must maintain attendance of 92% throughout the school year. This is the equivalent of 15 days’ absence during the year. To ensure consistent attendance in each term, students should not be absent more than 6 days in Term 1, 5 days in Term 2, or 4 days in Term 3. Absence from lessons includes any absence that is not required by a compulsory whole class learning activity. Re-enrollment may be conditioned upon meeting these requirements. These guidelines are designed to help students uphold the Dulwich Values, enjoy a range of commitments, make good choices, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. If your child will be absent from school due to illness or extended leave, please be sure to inform your child’s Form Tutor.
Communication Parents are always welcome to book appointments to discuss their child’s progress with teachers. The College also schedules regular events throughout the year, such as parent information sessions and parent forums, to provide information to parents and address their questions. These include parent information sessions, open days and parent forums, depending upon the school
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Parent Information Sessions – These sessions introduce parents to the curriculum their children will follow at Dulwich. School leaders will provide a general overview of the curriculum and then parents will follow a tour of the school to be introduced to each of their child’s subject teachers and Form Tutor. There will not be time during this evening for individual consultations but names, faces and email addresses can be linked. Open House - parents are invited to visit classrooms to further develop their understanding of the curriculum and style of teaching Dulwich students receive. Parent Forums – on these occasions, the Senior School Leadership Team will be available to answer questions on all specific items pertaining to life in the Senior School. Coffee and Chat – The Head of Senior School will be present in Coffee and Books for drop-in discussions of matters pertaining to the Senior School.
Lockers All students are provided with a locker. Parents should encourage their children not to bring to school valuable items. If students do bring valuable items to school they should ensure they remain on their person or in their locked locker at all times.
Uniform APPEARANCE All students at Dulwich College Beijing must wear the school uniform. This is different for warm and cold weather, and students must adhere to seasonal requirements. Teachers enforce the dress code and encourage students to take pride in their appearance. The uniform must be worn daily to attend classes. School uniform must be worn correctly at all times on buses, in school and when on a school trip (unless special permission has been given). SEASONS A—Start of school in August to October mid-term holiday: Summer Uniform B—October Holiday to April holiday: Winter Uniform C—April Holiday to Summer holiday: Summer Uniform Please note that the dates above are a guide, subject to weather conditions. Parents and students will be notified of the actual changeover dates each year. SENIOR SCHOOL – YEARS 7 TO 11 PE Kit: Generally, PE kit can only be worn during PE lessons or House activities. Once PE lessons are finished the students must change into their daily uniform for the remainder of the day. Accessories: Students may wear a watch. Girls may wear one simple stud earring per ear. Boys are not allowed to wear earrings. No other jewellery is allowed unless of a religious significance. Hair: Hair must always be clean and tidy, worn off the face and styled so as not to invite comment for any reason. Dyed hair should be of one natural colour. All KS3 students with hair longer than shoulder length are required to have it tied or held back with a headband away from their face. KS4 students will be required to use a headband if their hair invites comment. Makeup: Makeup must be subtle and not invite comment. Nail varnish is not allowed. Shoes: Black polished shoes are a uniform requirement. Training–type shoes, high heels, wedges, open–toed sandals, Ugg boots, canvas shoes and sling backs are not permitted. Blouses and Shirts: All boys’ shirts and girls’ blouses must be tucked in at all times.
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Facial Hair: Boys must be clean-shaven. Tattoos and Piercings: No facial or body piercings are allowed. Body tattoos are not allowed.
Senior School Boys (Years 7 – 11) • • • • •
Winter White shirt School Tie Blazer Grey trousers Black polished shoes
•
• • • •
Summer White short‐ sleeved with school crest No tie Grey shorts or trousers Grey socks Black polished shoes
Best Dressed (on formal occasions as indicated by the Head of School) Same as Winter Uniform
Senior School Girls (Years 7 – 11) Winter Summer • White long‐sleeved • White short‐ sleeved blouse blouse with school • School tie crest • No tie • Blazer • Knee‐length kilt • Grey knee‐length skirt or grey kneeor grey trousers length shorts • Dark tights, dark • Grey tights, grey socks or bare legs socks or bare legs • Black polished • Black polished shoes shoes Best Dressed (on formal occasions as indicated by the Head of School) Same as Winter Uniform, but trousers not allowed.
SENIOR SCHOOL – YEARS 12 AND 13 Students in Years 12 and 13 are not required to wear a uniform. However, they are expected to follow the Dulwich College Beijing Dress Code set forth below. All Year 12 and 13 students are expected to set an example for the rest of the College through their high standards of dress and presentation.
•
• • •
Senior School Boys (Years 12 and 13) Winter Summer Jacket or dark- • Navy, black or coloured business dark grey suit trousers Plain Shirt • Plain coordinated Smart tie shirt Plain dark shoes • No tie and socks • Plain dark shoes and socks
Best Dressed As for Winter, but dark coloured business suit
Senior School Girls (Years 12 and 13) Winter Summer • Fitted jacket to • Navy, black or match skirt or dark grey kneelength skirt trousers • Plain coordinated • Plain coordinated blouse with sleeves blouse with sleeves • Coordinated socks • Coordinated socks or tights or tights; bare legs • Plain, dark shoes to allowed in summer match clothes • Plain, dark shoes to match clothes Best Dressed As for Winter
The Head of Senior School is the arbiter of what is acceptable. Inappropriately dressed students will be sent home to change. Student's clothing should not invite teacher comment. The following guidelines were drawn up after a consultation with students and pastoral staff. Accessories: Jewellery should be discreet, suitable for a school environment and not invite comment. Girls may wear one simple stud earring per ear. Boys are not allowed to wear earrings.
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Hair: Hair must always be clean and tidy, worn off the face and styled so as not to invite comment for any reason. Dyed hair should be of one natural colour. Makeup: Makeup must be subtle and not invite comment. Nail varnish is not allowed. Shoes: Appropriate plain dark shoes should be worn. Training–type shoes, high heels, wedges, open– toed sandals, Ugg boots, canvas shoes and sling backs are not permitted. Facial Hair: Boys must be clean-shaven. Tattoos and Piercings: No facial or body piercings are allowed. Body tattoos are not allowed. Fabrics: Denim is not to be worn. Fabrics should not be heavily patterned or have slogans or emblems. Blouses: T-shirts and low-cut tops are not allowed.
SENIOR SCHOOL ACADEMICS Curriculum Our curriculum draws on the best influences from around the world. The framework in Years 7-11 (US Grades 6-10) is based on the English National Curriculum. This period culminates in Year 11 International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE exams, which are externally assessed examinations called International GCSEs. These examinations provide an important target for students during their passage through adolescence; in the final two years all students start the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme – a global gold standard for university entrance. Throughout the Senior School, our curriculum challenges Dulwich students to be the best they can be. Please see the Senior School Curriculum Guides available on our website: Key Stage 3 – Our curriculum is shaped by the English National Curriculum http://www.dulwichbeijing.cn/page.cfm?p=395 Key Stage 4 – International General Certificates of General Education (IGCSEs) http://www.dulwichbeijing.cn/page.cfm?p=396 Key Stage 5 – International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) http://www.dulwichbeijing.cn/page.cfm?p=397
Homework
Homework is an important part of the Dulwich College curriculum. The effective use of homework fosters good habits and establishes a routine that will stay with students throughout their school career. It is a valuable part of the learning process as it promotes independent learning and consolidates understanding. Students should be encouraged to work unaided, though it is natural for parents to show an interest in their children’s work.
Students must write down the homework in their Planners. Students should check Studywiz for detailed information about their homework. Students should ensure that the homework is their own work entirely unless otherwise instructed by their teacher.
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Homework should be done at home or in an appropriate quiet study area such as a library unless otherwise directed. Students should spend the appropriate amount of time on homework. Students concerned about the amount of homework set should approach their subject teacher. If this does not resolve the issue, they should talk to their Form Tutor who will follow up with the teacher concerned.
The appropriate length of time per subject per night is shown below. Students will be asked to complete homework in three subjects on each week night with some extra work at weekends. Years
Time limit
7, 8 and 9
3 x 30 minutes
10 & 11
3 x 40 minutes
12 & 13
≈ 7.5 hours per week ≈ 10 hours per week 12 hours per week minimum
Comments Schedule set by school. Longer pieces, more open in nature and including extended tasks. Schedule set by school. More extended tasks in line with IGCSE requirements Schedule set by teacher. Full range of advanced study tasks.
In addition students should expect to carry out up to 15 minutes per evening for language study.
Senior School Reports Formal written reports are provided twice a year: •
Report Cards include grades for Attainment and Engagement in each subject, and a Form Tutor comment (except the first delivered just before Raising Achievement Day).
•
Full Reports include grades for Attainment and Engagement as well as a written comment in each subject and a Form Tutor comment.
Face-to-face feedback is given twice per year: • Raising Achievement Day includes a 15 minute meeting between Form Tutor, parents and the student, which is set between various informative presentations on matters related to success in the Senior School. •
Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 Parents Evenings provide five minute meetings with each of your child’s subject teachers.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Dulwich students are expected to have or to acquire sufficient expertise in the English language to access the curriculum we offer. Children requiring English as an Additional Language support are removed from Spanish or French for the academic year in Key Stage 3 and taught individually or in small groups by specialist teachers. This tuition is reinforced by intensive individual language work in the classroom, especially during regular English lessons. At Key Stage 4 an option subject may be replaced by additional English study. Extra in-class or pull-out support is offered to all students who need it.
Learning Support During the admissions process, students requiring learning support are evaluated individually to determine if the school can meet their needs. We welcome students who can access the curriculum but may require in-class assistance or pull-out support classes. Our Learning Support team develops and supervises individualised education plans and works with parents, classroom teachers and special assistants to co-ordinate their implementation. If a child requires part-time or full-time special assistance in the class, the school will assist in contracting the required support at the parents’ expense.
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Learning Technologies Much of our curriculum is delivered and enhanced through the use of technology. Students in Years 8 to 13 are required to bring their own laptop to school each day. Students in Years 7 have access to Apple laptop and desktop computers in certain lessons during the week. All students must sign and follow our Acceptable Use of IT Policy. Our Virtual Learning Environment is Studywiz. Students and Parents have their own unique passwords to this site. This is a good place to explore some of the learning opportunities your child enjoys at school.
How can parents support their children? Simple things like showing an interest and being encouraging can make a big difference to how young people feel about school. It can give them the confidence to try out new skills and ideas and learn from mistakes without feeling discouraged. Parents can: Show an interest in their child’s work. Use the school planner (hard copy in Years 7 and 8, laptop in Years 9 and above) Discuss homework tasks with their child. Praise their child’s achievements. Ensure that you and your child have read the Acceptable Use Policy with regard to technology.
Talk about the school day. Use parent-teacher meetings. Help students to organise their time and paperwork. Find them a quiet place to study in the home environment.
Useful Websites for Parents Key Stage 3 documents: www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/keystage3/ This is a very informative website with detailed information on curriculum content and structure. National Curriculum www.nc.uk.net For detailed information about all subject programmes of study. The Parents’ Centre http://www.parentcentre.gov.uk Includes a section titled Learning at Home and outside school which offers help and advice about revision techniques and homework, information on study support and advice about controlling your child's Internet access. Parents Online http://www.parentsonline.gov.uk/ Ideas for holiday activities and advice for parents. BBC Schools http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ Pages for parents as well as Bitesize which is useful for revision and practice tests. Learn.co.uk http://www.learn.co.uk A great deal of resources for help with homework and revision. Edexcel http://www.edexcel.org.uk
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Edexcel’s syllabuses and resources for IGCSE. Cambridge International Examinations http://ww.cie.org.uk University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)’s syllabuses and resources for IGCSE. International Baccalaureate http://www.ibo.org Access to a range of resources and information related to the International Baccalaureate
PASTORAL CARE IN SENIOR SCHOOL We aim to create an environment in which all students can thrive. The support, welfare, guidance and communication systems that a school maintains are crucial to the creation of strong links between students, parents and teachers. This is known as the Pastoral System in the UK. At Dulwich, all students meet in their Form with their Form Tutor each day. Forms feature mixed-age groups in Years 8/9, 10/11 and 12/13, Year 7, our transitional year group, is arranged into 6 same-age forms. The Form Tutor is the first point of contact for parents who wish to pass information to the school, or in the event of a concern. We encourage students to turn to their Form Tutor when they need help, though they are always reminded to approach whomever they feel comfortable talking to when in need. Form Tutors are led in a team by Heads of Key Stage, and they all meet regularly. All Heads of Year meet weekly with the Deputy Head (Pastoral) who reports to the Head of Senior School. Personal, Social and Health Education is delivered to all students in weekly lessons through the year. Topics covered include study skills, tackling prejudice and bullying, substance abuse, changing relationships, and university and careers. We also employ full-time counsellors for students to turn to when confidentiality is desired. Studentled groups further complement our support services. Friendly Faces is an active-listening group made up of students.
The House System Students in Years 3 and above are assigned to one of five School Houses and students will stay in that House throughout their time at the school. The House System is a vehicle for in-school competition, and complements our welfare and guidance structures. It allows us another means of identifying issues of concern and helping our staff to address them. The table below summarises the overall structure of our Pastoral System. Year Group
Horizontal Staff Leadership
7
8/9
Head of Key Stage 3 and Deputy Head of Key Stage 3 (Year 7)
6 same-age mixed-House forms Alleyn House
Johnson House
Owens House
Soong House
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
Wodehouse House 2 mixedage forms
Head of Key Stage 3 and Deputy Head of Key Stage 3 (Year 8) and Deputy Head of Key Stage 3 (Year 9)
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10/11
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
Head of Key Stage 4 (Years 10/11) and Deputy Head of Key Stage 4
12/13
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
2 mixedage forms
Head of Key Stage 5 (Years 12/13) and Deputy Head of Key Stage 5
Vertical Staff Leadership
Head of Alleyn House
Head of Johnson House
Head of Owens House
Head of Soong House
Head of Wodehouse House
Deputy Head (Pastoral) Head of Senior School
House Competition:
provides a source of collegiality develops group identity and a sense of belonging offers an opportunity for the older students to lead and mentor the younger ones
Points are earned for each House in around thirty competitions throughout the year. The House with the most points at the end of the year wins the House Cup. The five Houses are: Alleyn, named after Edward Alleyn (1566 - 1626), who founded Dulwich College London on June 21st 1619, with letters patent from King James I. Alleyn was an actor and an entrepreneur in the world of Elizabethan and Jacobean entertainment, a colourful and famous figure of his day. House colour – Purple. Johnson, named after Amy Johnson, the famous aviator. Johnson set off alone in a single engine Gypsy Moth from Croydon, England, on May 5, 1930, and landed in Darwin, Australia on May 24th, Hers was an epic flight of 11,000 miles. She was the first woman to fly alone to Australia and enjoyed many aviation firsts. House colour – Blue. Owens, named after Jesse Owens, the grandson of an African-American slave and winner of 4 gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Owens proved the lie of Hitler and his Nazi Party’s belief in the Aryan master race. In winning on the global stage from such lowly beginnings and in the face of powerful political forces, Owens is an inspiring figure. House colour - Orange Soong, named after Soong Ching-ling, who was born in Shanghai in 1893 and married Dr Sun YatSen, She was heavily involved in political life, representing women in the political process as well as founding the China League for Civil Rights and the China Defence League. In 1950 she created the China Welfare Institute. House colour – Red. Wodehouse, named after the author P.G. Wodehouse, who was born in Surrey, England, and attended Dulwich College London from 1894 to 1900. His first novel for adults, Love Among the Chickens, was published in 1906. He worked in the United States as drama critic for Vanity Fair, and as a regular contributor to The Saturday Evening Post. His work includes novels, short stories, musical comedies, and screenplays. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in January 1975. House colour – Green.
THE DULWICH CHALLENGE The Dulwich Challenge Dulwich encourages Senior School students to participate in a range of academic, community service, action and creative activities. These are offered at lunchtimes, after
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school and at weekends. To qualify for certification students must attend at least one activity per week, complete the year trip and participate in a charitable project. To qualify for the more exclusive Dulwich Challenge Extra and Dulwich Challenge Elite, students are required to complete additional activities and to lead or inspire in some area of school life. Over 100 activities were offered last year in the Senior School in the following areas: : • Action (e.g., competitive and non-competitive sport, adventurous activities) • Creativity (e.g., music, drama, art, newspaper) • Service (e.g., fundraising, charity work, school duties) • Academic (e.g., Model United Nations, Global Issues, Scholars’ Cup, debating) To qualify for Dulwich Challenge Extra or Dulwich Challenge Elite students must demonstrate engagement in activities across the range offered. Over 20 different House competitions in sports, the arts and academics are run during the year, providing further opportunity for students to participate in enriching activities and events. Senior School Team Sports (Girls; and Boys’ teams unless otherwise indicated) Swimming, Netball (girls), Rugby (boys), Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Badminton, Table Tennis, Tennis Senior School Music Groups KS3 Choir, KS3 Wind Band, Chamber Choir, Wind Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band, Various Trios, Quartets and Rock Groups, Trinity and ABRSM examinations Senior School Drama School Productions, LAMDA courses and examinations Outdoor Activities International Award is available at Bronze, Silver and Gold.
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