DCB SS handbook by Dulwich College Beijing

Senior School Parent Handbook 2015 - 2016

starts here

www.dulwich-beijing.cn

Senior School Parent Handbook 2015 - 2016

Contents WELCOME FROM THE HEADS PHILOSOPHY & OBJECTIVES COLLEGE LEADERSHIP TEAM SENIOR SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM DULWICH COLLEGE BEIJING AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY WHOLE COLLEGE INFORMATION

6 6 7 7 8 9

Feedback and Communication Student Conduct

GENERAL INFORMATION – WHOLE COLLEGE

Bicycles Bus Service Earthquake, Fire and Lockdown Drills Emergency Communication Friends of Dulwich Beijing Lunches Medical Policy Parking and Pick-up and Drop-off Security Sports Centre Sun Safety

GENERAL INFORMATION – SENIOR SCHOOL

Arrival and Departure Supervision Times at School Attendance Communication Lockers Uniform

SENIOR SCHOOL ACADEMICS

Curriculum Homework Reporting and Feedback English as an Additional Language Learning Support Learning Technologies Supporting Your Children Useful Websites for Parents

PASTORAL CARE IN SENIOR SCHOOL The House System The Dulwich Challenge

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, 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 questions and listen to their feedback. David Mansfield, Headmaster Simon Herbert, Head of Senior School

PHILOSOPHY & OBJECTIVES Child-friendly Statements and Related 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 recognise 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 emphasise 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 children for a future that is unpredictable. I will be prepared for change. VALUES: ADAPTABILITY AND RESILIENCE

COLLEGE LEADERSHIP TEAM

David Mansfield Headmaster

Sarah Humphries Head of Early Years

Ruth Grant Simon Herbert Head of Junior School Head of Senior School

Becky Jing Head of Government Relations

Joseph McKee Academic Director

Paola Morris Director of Business Administration and Bursar

SENIOR SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM

Karla Hawkins Assistant Head (KS3 Leader)

Simon Herbert Head of Senior School

Richard Hawkins Deputy Head

Victoria Stanley Assistant Head (KS4 Leader)

Mark Pankratz Assistant Head (IB Leader)

Klaudia Tomaszun Assistant Head (Enrichment)

Position

DULWICH COLLEGE BEIJING Areas of Responsibility Name

Areas of Responsibility

e-mail

Telephone

Headmaster

David Mansfield

Whole College, Staff, Community

david.mansfield@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9011

Head of Senior School

Simon Herbert

All matters relating to the Senior School

simon.herbert@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9031

Head of Junior School

Ruth Grant

All matters relating to KS2

ruth.grant@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9031

Head of Early Years

Sarah Humphreys All matters relating to Early Years sarah.humphreys@dulwich-beijing.cn 8450-7676

Director of Business Administration and Bursar

Paola Morris

Academic Director

Joseph McKee

Business management of all paola.morris@dulwich-beijing.cn campuses; Fees Whole College Teaching Learning & Scheduling, Professional Development joe.mckee@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9168 6454-9058

Head of Government Relations Becky Jing

Government Relations

becky.jing@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9069

Director of Admissions

Susan Phillips

Admissions, Student Records

susan.phillips@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9015

Kasia Baran

Communications, External Relations, Promotion

kasia.baran@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9020

camilla.ojansivu@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9127

ying.liu@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9101

maureen.huang@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9118

Director of Marketing and Communications

Dulwich Community Programmes Camilla Ojansivu Out of school programmes Matters relating to Finance

Head of Finance

Liu Ying

Head of Human Resources

Maureen Huang Matters relating to HR

Head of Operations

Anthony Yeung

Facilities, Security, Catering

anthony.yeung@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9112

Bus Coordinator

Cecilia Yang

Buses

cecilia.yang@dulwich-beijing.cn

6454-9117

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 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 Parent Portal. Parent Portal on School Website Useful information on our curriculum, welfare and guidance, activities and staffing can be found on the Parent Portal. 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 and are available on our 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 uploaded in to the parent portal. 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. Letters Letters are uploaded in to the parent portal and links are sent by email with the weekly newsletter. The College magazine This termly magazine contains articles and photos from recent events at Dulwich College Beijing as well as other Dulwich Colleges. Student Publications Various student groups produce regular publications, which are forwarded with the weekly newsletter on Fridays. 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@dulwichbeijing.cn Informal Face-to Face Communication on School-related Matters Parents are always welcome to book appointments to discuss their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Parent Portal As of the start of the new term, all communication and information from the College will be uploaded to the parent portal on the College website. All announcements, letters and resources that would previously have been emailed to parents, will now be uploaded to and stored on the portal. They will remain accessible throughout the academic year should parents wish to look through it. A button on the College main website will enable access to the parent portal. After clicking on the link to the portal, parents will be prompted to log in with a unique username and password. The primary or key contact email address parents provided to the College will be their initial user name, and the password will be Dulwich123. After logging in, parents will have the option to change the password. The College will continue to send out weekly newsletters to all subscribers, and it will now contain links to the parent portal to access further information. WeChat Parents are encouraged to join the College's official WeChat account for more information on upcoming events and recent news. Parents can subscribe to it by scanning the QR code below or adding ‘DulwichCollegeBeijing’ to ‘Friends’. WeChat is a mobile communication service app which is available on Android, iPhone and Windows Phones. Parents may contact the Admissions or Marketing and Communications team if they need support with installing the application.

School Calendar The School Events Calendar is a live, online calendar that can be accessed via parent portal. The online calendar allows users to select only the event categories relevant to them. As the events calendar is subject to change and additions, we ask that parents consult the online calendar throughout the year.

Student Conduct At Dulwich College Beijing we encourage positive behaviour and in 2014-15 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 parent portal.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT This is the cornerstone upon which our policies are built. • The school is a place to learn, grow and enjoy friendships. The classroom must be a positive place for learning. Disruptive behaviour in class is not tolerated. • Insults, disrespect and other hurtful acts disrupt learning and teaching in a school community. Abusive language, swearing or other uses of words, which are noncomplimentary, hurtful or intimidating, are prohibited. Any behaviour which intentionally excludes a student or students will not be tolerated. • Members of the school community are expected to use non-violent means to resolve conflict. We are a hands-free school and have zero-tolerance for aggression. Physically aggressive behaviour is not a responsible or safe way to interact with others. Harassment, either verbal or physical is not tolerated. • The personal property of the school and of others must be respected. Other students’ lockers and personal belongings must not be violated. The cost of making good graffiti and other destruction or abuse of property will passed on to students. • Students may not be in possession of, or under the influence of, or provide others with alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs. • A student should come to school prepared to do his/her work. Work must be handed in on time. Incomplete work will be assigned as homework and it will become the responsibility of the student to ensure it is complete. Missed time and/or lessons will be the responsibility of the student and it will be expected that these will be made up. In such cases, parents will be informed by the teacher.

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.

Bus Service The school provides a bus service that is contracted through a local bus 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 firstserved 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. Bus information is available from our bus coordinator, Cecilia Yang at cecilia.yang@dulwichbeijing.cn 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 a 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, Fire and Lockdown Drills Earthquake, Fire and Lockdown Drill 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 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 and are encouraged to become actively involved. Friends hold an open meeting every month with the Headmaster and the Director of Marketing and Communications to discuss events within the school, fundraising projects and school 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, Campus Representatives, Charity Representatives, a Coffee & Books Representative, a Friends Shop Representative, School Representatives and additional representatives. Friends activities include the Friends Newsletter, Connections Lunches, Culture Club Excursions, the annual Dulwich Dinner Dance, the International Food Festival at Founder’s Day, the Friends School Shop and Coffee & Books Coffee Shop.

Lunches The Lakeview Café and the Lakeside Café at Legend Garden offer tasty, nutritional food to students. The catering company, Chartwells, runs the café and students in Junior and Senior School may purchase meals using a photo ID lunch card. Students should keep their cards over the summer break. Cards for new students will be available during the Orientation Week just before the start of school. 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. • 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 will be sent home and must be treated with proper medicated shampoo. They must 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 drop-off procedures as these may change from time to time. Procedures in 2015 -16 will not change from the end of 2014 - 15. 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 guards who are responsible for ensuring that unauthorised personnel do not enter the school and that students do not leave on their own initiative. 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, two multi-purpose sports domes, tennis courts, a dance/aerobics studio and a variety of resistance and cardiovascular training equipment. The club’s operating hours are 6:00 am to 10:00 pm on weekdays and 8:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekends. When school is in session, only Dulwich students may use the swimming pool, sports hall and sports domes. Dulwich students receive free access to all of the club’s facilities. Contact the Sports Centre reception desk at 6454-9150 for more information or to set up a tour of the club.

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. Children should bring water bottles to school marked with their names, as we discourage the use of paper cups.

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 8:00 am. We ask children not to arrive at school before this time as there may not be adult supervision. Supervision continues until 5:00 pm, 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-enrolment 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, please be sure to inform your child’s Form Tutor. It is expected that all students and parents will adhere to term dates. Our calendars are produced well in advance to help parents organise their holidays. If, in exceptional circumstances, an early departure or late arrival back to school is requested, this must be put in writing to the Head of School, with written evidence and reasons submitted.

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, open mornings and parent presentations, to provide information to parents and address their questions. 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 Presentations - On these occasions, the Senior School Leadership Team will present on a given topic and will be available to answer questions. 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. 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 shirt with school crest • No tie • Grey shorts or trousers • Grey socks • Black polished shoes

Senior School Girls (Years 7 – 11) Winter • White long - sleeved blouse • School tie • Blazer • Knee - length kilt or grey trousers • Dark tights, dark socks or bare legs • Black polished shoes

Summer • White short - sleeved blouse w/school crest • No tie • Grey knee -length skirt or grey kneelength shorts • Grey tights, grey socks or bare legs • Black polished shoes

Best Dressed (on formal occasions as indicated by the Head of School)

Same as Winter Uniform.

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 • Jacket or darkcoloured business suit • Plain Shirt • Smart tie • Plain dark shoes and socks

Summer • Navy, black or dark grey trousers • Plain coordinated shirt • No tie • Plain dark shoes and socks

Senior School Girls (Years 12 and 13) Winter • Fitted jacket to match skirt or trousers • Plain coordinated blouse with sleeves • Coordinated socks or tights • Plain, dark shoes to match clothes

Best Dressed

As for Winter, but dark coloured business suit.

As for Winter.

Summer • Navy, black or dark grey knee-length skirt • Plain coordinated blouse with sleeves • Coordinated socks or tights; bare legs allowed in summer • Plain, dark shoes to match clothes

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. 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 parent portal: Key Stage 3 - Our curriculum is shaped by the English National Curriculum Key Stage 3 Curriculum Key Stage 4 - International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSEs) Key Stage 4 Curriculum Key Stage 5 - International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) IB Curriculum

Homework Dulwich College Beijing believes that effective homework is meaningful, challenging and achievable. It fosters good study habits, which include establishing routines, developing independence and improving concentration, all of which we consider essential lifelong skills. We believe it is a valuable part of the learning process as it extends, consolidates and enriches the knowledge and understanding of classroom learning. Students should be encouraged to work unaided, though it is natural for parents to show an interest in their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work. Students in Years 7 and 8 must write down the homework in their Planners. Students in Year 9 and above are encouraged to use their planners or another suitable method, of their choice, for recording their homework. 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

Homework should be done at home or in an appropriate quiet study area such as a library unless otherwise directed. 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 following points apply to homework in KS3: • All homework should be visibly acknowledged, marked or assessed as appropriate to the task. • Homework tasks should be discrete and homework should not be for finishing off classwork. • Homework tasks should have a clear start and end and should not be open ended in terms of time. • Separate and optional extension tasks should be provided for the most able when appropriate. • Homework tasks should not involve group work. The appropriate length of time to be spent on homework in each year group is shown below: Year 7 75 minutes per night, approximately 6.25 hours per week. A very rigid homework timetable is set by the school, with a focus on core subjects and languages. There is no compulsory holiday homework other than set reading. Year 8 90 minutes per night, approximately 7.5 hours per week. A rigid homework timetable is set by the school, with a focus on core subjects and languages. There is no compulsory holiday homework other than set reading. Year 9 105 minutes per night, approximately 8.75 hours per week. A more flexible homework timetable set by the school. There is no compulsory holiday homework other than set reading. Years 10 and 11 120 minutes per night, approximately 10 hours per week. The schedule is set by teachers but more than one day’s notice is given for longer pieces of work. More extended tasks are given in line with IGCSE requirements. Meaningful holiday homework will often be set related to coursework and examination preparation when appropriate. Years 12 and 13 A minimum of 12 hours per week. The schedule is set by teachers and homework includes a full range of advanced study tasks in line with IB Diploma requirements. Meaningful holiday homework will often be set related to coursework and examination preparation when appropriate.

SCHOOL GUIDING STATEMENTS

their teacher.

Reporting and Feedback 24

Formal written reports are provided three times a year in Key Stage 3, four times in a year in Years 10 and 12 and twice in Years 11 and 13. All reports include grades for Attainment and Engagement in each subject, written targets for improvement in each subject and a Form Tutor comment (except for the first report delivered just before Raising Achievement Day). The final report in each academic year also includes a Head of Year comment in Key Stage 3 and a Head of Key Stage Comment in Key Stages 4 and 5. Face-to-face feedback is given three times per year: Raising Achievement Day in Term 1 includes a 15-minute meeting between the Form Tutor, the parents and the student. The main aim is to review progress to date and set targets for the rest of the year. Different year groups will have their interviews on different days to allow students to have regular lessons around their interview time. Raising Achievement Review Day in Term 2 includes a 15-minute meeting between the Form Tutor, the parents and the student. The main aim of this is to review the targets previously set and if appropriate to adjust them for the rest of the year. Different year groups will have their interviews on different days to allow students to have regular lessons around their interview time. This does not apply to Year 11 and 13 who will have an extra Student/Parent/Teacher Meeting instead. Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 Student/Parent/Teacher Meetings provide 5-minute meetings with each of your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s subject teachers. These occur once per year for most year groups and twice per year for Years 11 and 13.

English as an Additional Language 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, French or German 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 classroom, the school will assist in contracting the required support at the parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expense.

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. During Term 1, students in Year 7 have access to laptops and desktop computers in certain lessons during the week. From Term 2 onwards, students in Year 7 will be required to bring their own Microsoft Surface 3 or Microsoft Surface 3 Pro. All students must sign and follow our IT Responsible Use Policy. Our Virtual Learning Environment is Studywiz. Students 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. Parents who would like their own Studywiz passwords can apply for one through the IT Department.

Supporting Your 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. • Discuss homework tasks with their child. • Use the school planner (and laptop from Year 8) • Praise their child’s achievements. Ensure that you and your child have read the Acceptable Use Policy on 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 National Curriculum https://www.gov.uk/national-curriculum/overview For detailed information about all subject programmes of study. Parents’ Tips http://www.parenting.co.uk Ideas, learning resources 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. Edexcel http://www.edexcel.org.uk Edexcel’s syllabuses and resources for IGCSE. Cambridge International Examinations http://www.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 are arranged into 5 same-age forms in Year 7, 6 in Years 8 and 9, 5 in Years 10-13. 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 to whomever they feel comfortable talking when in need. In fact, we have ‘Who To Talk To’ posters up throughout the school and these include pastoral leaders, prefects, school council students and also our counsellors. Form Tutors are led in a team by Heads of Year and then Heads of Key Stage, and they all meet regularly. 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. Student-led groups further complement our support services. We also have a buddy and mentor system of older students supporting our younger children.

The House System Students in Years 7 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 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Number of Forms

Staff Leadership

5 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 3 Deputy Head of Key Stage 3 (Year 7) 6 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 3 Deputy Head of Key Stage 3 (Year 8) 6 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 3 Deputy Head of Key Stage 3 (Year 9) 5 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)Deputy Head of Key Stage 4 5 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) Deputy Head of Key Stage 4 5 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13) Deputy Head of Key Stage 5 5 same-age mixed-House forms Head of Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13) Deputy Head of Key Stage 5

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 30 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 21 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 24. 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 four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Owens proved the lie of Hitler and his Nazi Party’s belief in the Aryan master race. Winning on the global stage from humble 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 Yat-Sen. She was heavily involved in political life, representing women in the political process and 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 encourages Senior School students to participate in a range of academic, community service, action and creative activities. These are offered at lunchtimes, after 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 students must demonstrate engagement in activities across the range offered. Those attaining Dulwich Challenge Elite must provide evidence of strong leadership and initiative. 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.

Dulwich College Beijing, 89 Capital Airport Road, Legend Garden, Shunyi District, Beijing 100103 PRC www.dulwich-beijing.cn Tel: +86 010 6454 9000