Dwight School London Lower School 2015-16 Parent & Student Handbook by Dwight School London

LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16

Lower School Parent and Student Handbook

2015-2016

Our Mission Dwight School London prepares young people to become leaders in the world through personalised learning, our global vision and comittment to the community. This mission is underpinned by three educational pillars.

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Personalised Learning

With a student body representing a range of individual academic abilities and talents, our aim is to provide personalised programmes that extend, challenge and support each student within the context of the International Baccalaureate Programmes. Dwight is committed to realising each student's potential based on international standards of excellence and each individual's Spark of Genius.

Community Dwight School London's commitment to the International Baccalaureate Programmes ensures academic excellence combined with leadership training and service learning. Through academic, civic, team and individual exploration students develop valuable leadership skills and engage in authentic local and global community service that will help them succeed in the next phase of their lives as students, community members and leaders.

Global Vision Dwight School London serves a diverse community of students from all over the world, and the International Baccalaureate Programmes have an emphasis on intercultural awareness, encouraging global thinkers and developing global citizens. Our school literally extends into other regions of the world through the range of cultures and experiences of our students, and our strong partnership with our sister schools.

The International Baccalaureate Mission Statement The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment. These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right. www.ibo.org

Contents WELCOME TO LOWER SCHOOL Welcome from the Head of School 3 Welcome from the Lower School Principal 3 Staff Information 6 Uniform and Equipment 9 School Routines 14 Curriculum 20 Additional Support 24 Assessment and Reporting 28 Homework 30 Holistic Opportunities 32 Student Welfare 36 Partnering with Parents 38 Health and Safety 42 Communication 46 Calendar 50

Welcome from the Head of School I am very proud to welcome you to the Lower School at Dwight School London where we start the International Baccalaureate continuum for students aged from 2 to 11.

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One thing that I hope you notice, which is common across all parts of the school, is the positive ethos that exists which is evidenced through good relationships, intercultural understanding, supportive behaviour, respect and hard work. By knowing our students well, we are able to personalise learning and to focus on individual progress, helping each child to achieve their potential.

This booklet gives a great deal of information about what happens in Lower School but it is not exhaustive. If you are unsure about our programmes and procedures or if you would like to know more about the school and your child’s place and progress in it then I encourage you to call in – we have a genuine open-door policy there to ensure that we are able to work in an effective partnership. Best wishes Mr David Rose Head of School

Welcome from the Lower School Principal It is with immense pleasure that I welcome you to the Lower School at the Dwight School London, a thriving, exciting, independent, international school based in North London with a rich diversity of students, parents and teachers. We offer an excellent international education designed to preparing our students for their 21st century lives. Our children receive a world class, well-rounded education comprising of great care and support. Every day we appeal to our children’s innate curiosity, we engage them and challenge them to take their learning further and we make their time in school rich, authentic and enjoyable. We regularly have visitors who comment on our warm ethos, excellent learning outcomes, friendliness and openness. I hope this booklet gives you a real feel for our successful school and I hope to see you in and around school as your child progresses with us. Mr. Matt Parkin Lower School Principal

LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16

Lower School Staff Information

LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16

Lower School Leadership Team Lower School Principal: Mr. Matt Parkin mparkin@dwightlondon.org - 0208 920 0644 Lower School Deputy Principal: Mrs. Kate Hornshaw khornshaw@dwightlondon.org - 0208 920 0645

Lower School Class Teachers Class Name

Class Teacher

Room

K1 & K2

Ms. Sara Tomlin

Reception 1C 2B

Mrs. Gabriele Weber & Ms. Claire Pitts Ms. Christella Christodoulou Mrs. Alex Bettelheim & Mrs. Glynis Sutton

L1 L11 L12

Mr. Patrick Slane

W16

Mrs. Indra Mitra Duggan & Mrs. Kate Hornshaw

W17

Ms. Jenna Brooks

Mr. Sjoerd Van den Bosch & Mr. Waseem Rehman

Miss Anna Larragy

5GT

Mrs. Theresa Gaylor & Miss Nicole Tye

W18

Ms. Nicole Dunaway

Lower School Specialist Teachers PE Art Music Library French Learning Support

Mr. Geoff Cusack Mrs. Joanna Boughton Mr. Viktor Mastoridis Mrs. Ginka Mastoridis Mrs. Anita Bamberger & Mrs. Glynis Sutton Elena Demetriou, Richard Miles, Jacqui Rogers, Elena Tsioupra & Jane Kendal

Lower School Administrative Staff Name

Area of Responsibility Phone

Mylene McCullough Carol Williams

Lower School Office Lower School Office

Email Address

0208 920 0651 mmccullough@dwightlondon.org 0208 920 0642 cwilliams@dwightlondon.org

Whole School Contacts Name

Mr. David Rose Mr. Robert Van Turenhout Mrs. Michelle Payne Ms. Mary Langford Ms. Sarah Marksman Ms. Karen Strickland Mrs. Anne Welch Mr. Nick Brown

Area of Responsibility Phone

Head of School Business Administration School Bus Service Admissions Accounts Communications Welfare Officer IT Strategy Manager

0208 920 0632 0208 920 0611 0208 920 0638 0208 920 0637 0208 920 0612 0208 920 0631 0208 920 0642 0208920 0613

Email Address

drose@dwightlondon.org rvt@dwightlondon.org mpayne@dwightlondon.org mlangford@dwightlondon.org smarksman@dwightlondon.org kstrickland@dwightlondon.org awelch@dwightlondon.org nbrown@dwightlondon.org

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To contact a member of staff, please use the following email structure: firstinitialsurname@dwightlondon.org

Uniform and Equipment

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Uniform The uniform supplier for Dwight School London is: Braggs Schoolwear 341 Ballards Lane North Finchley London N12 8LJ 020 8445 3945 www.braggsschoolwear.co.uk

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• • • •

A dress code encourages students to express their individuality through personality and academic achievements, not outward appearances A dress code puts the focus on academics, not fashion, because it projects a neat, serious, businesslike image Schools with dress codes have fewer discipline problems because students are not distracted Dress codes eliminate the visible differences between needy and wealthy children Dress codes eliminate pressure to wear brand name clothing Dress codes create a sense of school pride and belonging

If students or parents have a question regarding the policy or uniform, please contact the Lower School Deputy Principal - Mrs. Kate Hornshaw. Uniform for Lower School students is as follows: Students shall have the right to dress in accordance with their gender identity, within the constraints of the dress code and uniform policy. Girls: Options selected from the following: • School cardigan or school v-neck pullover • White school, button-up, collared shirt • Short sleeve school polo shirt (navy/red/white) • Long sleeve school polo shirt (navy /red/white) • White undershirt • School kilt with or without black or navy tights-preferably navy • Navy or sand trousers/chinos or shorts • White or single coloured dark socks--preferably navy • Raincoat • Winter coat • Backpack (optional) • Blazer (optional) • Blazer badge (optional) • School tie (optional) Boys: Options selected from the following: • School v-neck pullover • White school, button-up, collared shirt • Short sleeve school polo shirt (navy/red/white) • Long sleeve school polo shirt (navy/red/white)

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Dwight School London has a mandatory uniform and dress code for all students. There are many positive reasons for a school dress code, including:

• • • • • • • • •

White undershirt Navy or sand trousers/chinos or shorts White or single coloured socks--preferably navy Raincoat Winter coat Backpack (optional) Blazer (optional) Blazer badge (optional) School tie (optional)

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PE and Games: • Black and white striped top with school logo • Black shorts with white piping • Black socks with school logo • Royal T-shirt with school logo and shorts • Football boots (boys only) • Trainers • Black one piece swimming costume • Black swimming trunks • Plain black tracksuit

Equipment must be clearly marked with your child’s name. The school provides stationery; however, students should have the following supplies of their own: • • • • • •

HB pencils A soft eraser A set of felt pens/coloured pencils A sharpener A ruler A pencil case

We do not allow your books to be decorated with stickers or graffiti. Students need to also have the following: • • •

A PE bag A backpack for books A sunhat

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What Should Students Bring to School?

Security Staff and students are expected to respect the property of the Dwight School London and of others, and to take all reasonable measures to safeguard this property and their own personal items they bring to school. Dwight School London cannot accept responsibility for personal items brought into the School. Please do not allow your child to bring expensive items or large sums of money to school. Personal entertainment equipment is not allowed and mobile phones may only be brought to school if they are placed in the school office. Please do not allow your child to bring toys to school unless it is requested by their class teacher.

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Lost and Found Lost property should be placed in the Lost Property boxes around the school. If your child loses something, please tell their class teacher or ask your child to tell a prefect. Unclaimed lost property will be donated to local charities on a termly cycle.

Lockers In Year 6 students share a locker in preparation for their transition to the Upper School where they will have access to their own lockers.

Technology

Our IT vision states: At Dwight School London, digital technologies support a teaching and learning experience that is personalised, dynamic and global. Students are taught to be responsible users of technology. Digital technology is reliable, inclusive and integrated. Digital technology is used in balance alongside non-digital teaching and learning strategies. As such, IT at Dwight is implemented to enrich educational experience. Students gain access to mobile devices and online resources throughout the year groups. This access is tailored to their abilities,interests and level of responsibility. As much as possible, control of IT is devolved to the end user, as this promotes authentic IT learning that will be invaluable to today's digital natives. Teachers may confiscate any electronic devices not being used appropriately. On the first occasion they will be returned to the student at the end of the day. If this persists, electronic devices will be confiscated and held until a parent/carer collects the item. All such items are brought into school at the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own risk and the school does not accept responsibility for them. The school offers an insurance option to cover losses and damage to such devices.

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School Routines

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7.45-8.20am 8.20am 8.35am 8.50am 9.55am – 10.15am 10.20am - 10.40am 11.40am - 1.00pm 12.00pm - 1.00pm 12.20pm - 1.00pm 12.40pm- 1.30pm 2.30pm – 2.40pm 3.30pm 3.40pm 3.30pm - 5.00pm 3.40pm - 4.45pm

Breakfast Club (charges apply) Staff are on duty in the playground School starts (Years 3-6) School starts (Years K-Y2) Kindergarten, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 morning break Year 3 to Year 6 morning break Kindergarten and Reception Playtime and Lunch Year 1 and Year 2 Playtime and Lunch Year 3 Playtime and Lunch Years 4 - 6 Playtime and Lunch Kindergarten - Year 3 Afternoon Break Kindergarten, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 end of school day Year 3 to Year 6 end of school day After school care (charges apply) Homework club

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures Reception and Year 1 to Year 6 students enter via the gate at the Woodside Campus, Lower School located on Woodside Avenue (N12 8SY). The gate opens at 8.00am and is supervised from 8.20am. Older students can play until 8.35am when their school day starts, younger ones until 8.50am. Kindergarten students enter via Woodside Lane and the gate for the Lodge is open from 8.30am9.00am and students should go straight to their classrooms. It is important that all students are on time for their lessons as late arrival can disrupt their learning and that of their classmates. Reception and Year 1 to Year 6 students should be collected from the playground and the gate on Woodside Avenue opens at 3.30pm. Kindergarten students should be collected from their classrooms. The gate at Woodside Lane opens from 3.20pm - 3.40pm. Students should be collected at the designated time. If parents are unable to collect their child themselves, they must make sure that their child’s teacher is aware of alternative arrangements. Under no circumstances will a child be allowed to depart from the premises unless they are with a person who is known to the teacher or they are with a person able to provide proof that they are authorised to collect that child. Young children become anxious if their carer is not there to collect them. To avoid unnecessary upsets, it is important that carers arrive on time. If they are delayed, they must telephone the Lower School Office so that the class teacher can be informed. It is recommended that, where appropriate, the youngest child is collected first. If you wish for your child to travel to and from school independently (walking, cycling, public transport) a risk assessment would need to be agreed with the Lower School Leadership team before this takes place).

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Format of the Day

Snacks It is important that children have a healthy snack each day. We do not allow sweets, chocolate or sugary items as snacks. Our aim is to promote positive and healthy eating habits. With this in mind, the following items are suggested: cheese, sliced fruit, raisins, crackers, sandwiches, and yoghurt. In addition, it is important that children bring a water bottle to school each day, clearly labelled with their name and class. Dwight School London Lower School is a nut-free environment. No nut products are served. All snacks brought from home must be nut-free. It is the responsibility of parents to inform the class teacher of any allergies their child may have.

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Catering Services

The School uses Holroyd Howe Catering Company to provide staff and student lunches using its on-site kitchen. Lunch at the Lower School consists of homemade hot mains and vegetarian options with fresh vegetables to accompany, a hot children's favourite dessert, a salad bar and cold dessert options. If children have any dietary needs (allergies, religious restrictions) parents are asked to contact our catering manager Mr. Mark Towler directly at dwightschool@holroydhowe. com.

Sample Menu

Payment Lower School lunches are invoiced in advance on a by-term basis via the school finance office.

School Bus Service Dwight School London provides a door-to-door bus service, driven by qualified and experienced drivers with appropriate child safeguarding vetting. Students from the age of four may use this service that runs for both the Lower and Upper Schools. Spaces are allocated on a first-come, firstserved basis and route times may vary slightly throughout the year as students join or leave us. There is an additional fee for this service.

School Shuttle Service The school offers a free shuttle service bookable in advance via the Transport Office. The Transport Coordinator Mrs. Michelle Payne is available between 10.40am and 13.40pm daily, or you can email her on mpayne@dwightlondon.org, or leave a voicemail. Woodside Park (Northern Line)

Dwight Shuttle

Morning Service:

Departs: 8.10am Woodside Park Station

Departs: 8.00am Dwight Upper School

Arrives: 8.30am Dwight Upper School

Arrives: 8.10am Dwight Lower School

Afternoon Service

Departs: 3.50pm Dwight Upper School

Departs: 3:45 Dwight Upper School

Arrives: 4.00pm Woodside Park Station

Arrives: 4.00pm Dwight Lower School

Seats are on a first-come first-served basis. Timings may be affected by traffic.

Students Leaving Before the End of the School Day If parents are aware that their child will need to leave school early during a school day they must inform the Lower School office by email at mmccullough@dwightlondon.org. The school office will then inform the class teacher. Students must be signed out and collected from the Lower School Office.

LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16

Please contact the School Transport Office on 020 8920 0638 with any queries. The Transport Coordinator Mrs. Michelle Payne is available between 11.00am and 13.00pm daily, or you can email her on mpayne@dwightlondon.org, or leave a voicemail. The transport out-of-hours emergency number from 7.00-8.30am and 3.30-6.00pm is 0781 486 7027.

Absence/Lateness Dwight, like all UK schools, must keep accurate records on absenteeism and tardiness, and these must be available to local authorities and inspectors. We encourage our students to aim for 100% attendance at school. If your child is unable to attend or will be late for any reason, it is important that the school is informed as early as possible. Please telephone the school office before 9.00am on the first day of their absence and send in a written note or an email to tell us the reason for their absence.

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Doctor’s and dental appointments should be made out of school time. If, however, this is not possible you must contact your child’s teacher in advance informing them of the time you are collecting your child.

As an international school we understand that at times family circumstances may dictate that students need to be away during term time. Parents are advised to give careful consideration to the possible negative effect of such absences on their child’s learning. The school will consider authorising absence but parents must apply in advance in writing to the Lower School Principal. When the decision to apply for extended absence is taken, parents should note that teachers may not be required to provide additional work for the student, either during the absence or on their return to school. This is a matter to be discussed with the Lower School Principal. Parents should be aware that the school is obliged to report to local safeguarding authorities any recurring patterns of unexplained absences. Information about procedures arising from repeated tardiness or absence are set out in the school’s Attendance Policy on the school website.

LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16

Curriculum

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Our IBPYP Curriculum The guiding principals of the International Baccalaureate Programmes used at Dwight School London are: • Students should develop a holistic attitude to knowledge; they should see the subjects they learn as an integrated whole. • Students’ own cultural experiences and backgrounds, and those of our diverse teaching staff, are a valuable learning resource; we encourage understanding through intercultural awareness. • The ability to express ideas both reflects and deepens understanding; students’ communication skills are central to their learning.

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All Dwight School London Lower School Students are expected to develop a broad and balanced base of knowledge.

The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognising their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.

IB Learner Profile Inquirers We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life. Knowledgable We develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.

Thinkers We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions. Communications We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. We collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups. Principled We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences. Open-minded We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.

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Caring We show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us. Risk-takers We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change. Balanced We understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives - intellectual, physical, and emotional - to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. We recognise our interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live. Reflective We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IBPYP) is the curriculum framework that we use at Dwight School London Lower School. Students learn the importance of inquiry based learning and develop as independent, international-minded, lifelong learners. The curriculum is both broad and balanced, and includes the following subject areas taught through IBPYP Units of Inquiry that are cross-curricular: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Maths Language Art Music PE French History Geography ICT PSPE Library Environmental Studies

The curriculum content is designed by Dwight teachers working collaboratively and reflects Dwight's London setting as well as the countries and cultures represented in each class. This brings an international perspective to all that the students learn. Students are at the centre of the education process which develops their curiosity and questioning skills. The key to a successful school is not just the curriculum but also that teachers that work within it. Teachers reflect the inquiry-based approach, demonstrate international-mindedness and, most importantly, they get to know your child well so that he or she feels safe and secure and ready to learn. Our teachers are trained to support individual needs and help those students who have learnt English as an Additional Language (EAL) see page 24.

Service Learning/Community Service

Each year the Student Council chooses charities to support. Recent charities have included The North London Hospice, Wateraid and victims of the Nepalese earthquakes. Some of these good causes have come about through the international connections and experiences of Dwight families.

The Lower School Library The Lower School Library is the central resource of the school, housing collections of books, magazines, DVDs and online resources, catering to student inquiry, research and reading interests of all our Lower School students. Students visit the Library weekly to develop their Library skills and occasionally visit independently when doing a particular research project. There are opportunities for parents to volunteer in the Library.

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Service Learning is an integral part of all IB Programmes and is a feature of the IBPYP. Students have an opportunity to serve in the local and international community by participating in various activities that help and support others and their environments. The emphasis is on developing community awareness and concern, a sense of responsibility, and the skills and attitudes needed to make effective contributions to a global society.

Additional Support

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Learning Support As an inclusive IB World School, Dwight accepts students with a wide range of abilities, subject to space, class balance, and on the understanding that students may be required to participate in the Quest Programme for the provision of additional learning support. Through Quest, students receive one-to-one tuition from trained staff in skills such as reading, maths, writing and organisation. The aim of the Quest Programme is to teach students with different learning styles or difficulties to function successfully and independently in an academically challenging, IB mainstream setting. The Quest Programme, with its specialists, is an integral part of the school community and is a resource for all teachers and parents.

Further support can be provided through our partner school The Holmewood School, London, a school designed to support students with more complex needs. Access to specialist staff including Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists is available to mainstream Dwight School London students.

English as an Additional Language (EAL) English as an Additional Language Programme (EAL), is designed for IBPYP students who need additional support in order to more easily access the curriculum and to enable more meaningful engagement in the classroom setting. In addition to building a sound understanding of English, the programme also provides techniques for vocabulary acquisition and a variety of exercises to consolidate the knowledge of grammar. There are also units devoted to reading and comprehension skills, and the development of pronunciation (phonetics). The EAL specialists work closely with classroom teachers to ensure that their programmes align closely with what their students are learning in the classroom. The progress of the student is assessed continuously against the IBPYP English language acquisition criteria, and each week teaching is adjusted accordingly to ensure that it provides the maximum benefit for the individual student. Participation in the EAL programme incurs an additional fee and, if recommended by the school, is compulsory and will remain in place for as long as is required to enable the student to successfully access the mainstream curriculum. Clear entry and exit criteria exist to determine the level of support required.

Mother Tongue Languages Mother-tongue is a child's first or native language and Dwight School London aims to inform parents in the maintenance and development of both mother-tongue language and literacy skills. Such support includes:

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Participation in the Quest Programme incurs an additional fee and, if recommended by the school, is compulsory and will remain in place for as long as is required to enable the student to successfully access the IB programmes. Clear entry and exit criteria exist to determine the level of support required.

• The provision of mother-tongue classes within the curriculum (including the School Activities Programme) • Providing parents with information regarding the different mother-tongue programmes available • Recognising and celebrating the various mother-tongue languages within the school • Extending mother-tongue resources in the library • Providing bilingual dictionaries in the EAL department for those students whose mother tongue is not English.

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Recognising the importance of Mother Tongue maintenance the school is happy to help families identify Mother Tongue Programmes available in the local area. Should the school be asked to provide a mother-tongue language teacher at school this will incur an additional fee and is subject to the school finding an suitably qualified teacher. There is no additional charge for mother-tongue if there are four or more students of the same level.

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Assessments and Reporting

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Assessment Students in the IBPYP are assessed through a variety of methods. Language and Mathematics are aligned to the English National Curriculum although the programme is differentiated throughout to better serve the individual students. The Lower School students are given NFER standardised assessments each year so that Dwight can benchmark student progress against national norms. For children in K1-Reception students are also monitored and assessed using EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) benchmarks. These assessments are used by teachers to inform their daily planning for individual students in order to provide high quality, personalised learning.

Reporting to Parents October: K1-Reception parents have parent/teacher conferences. Year 1 - Year 6 have written Settling-In Reports. February: Mid year reports for Reception - Year 6 K1 -K2 publish targets June: Student-led 3-way teacher conferences.

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Parents are informed about student progress throughout the year through a number of ways. The purpose of this activity is to inform parents, provide feedback and to discuss goal setting.

Homework

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Aims and Objectives Homework is an integral part of the academic programme. It provides students with an opportunity to reinforce their learning at school and establish appropriate attitudes, habits and commitment to learning. Homework can take place in a variety of ways. It may be to reinforce work done in school or to extend that learning by discussing a topic at home or investigating something at home related to the Unit of Inquiry. It may be learning new spelling words or practising skills learned in maths. Homework activities can be a way for teacher to check a student’s understanding and application of knowledge and skills. Part of the purpose of homework is to help Lower School students to develop their organisation, planning and self-discipline skills. Of course, reading is always encouraged, alone or aloud with parents.

• • •

Year 1 and Year 2 : 1 hour per week Year 3 and Year 4: 1.5 hours per week Year 5 and Year 6: 2.5 hours per week

For the younger children, the emphasis should be on developing reading skills, with regular reading being the main focus. Also, informal games to develop maths skills are recommended. For older students, suggestions for homework include reading, researching information, trying a simple experiment, cooking, making a model or preparing a presentation.

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The homework timetable will be developed to meet the following guidelines:

Holistic Opportunities

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Extra Curricular Programme There is a wide range of extra-curricular activities in the Lower School offered every day after school and usually finishing by 4.45pm. Letters are sent out each term so that parents can register their children for these after-school activities. The activities on offer are age appropriate and are free unless the school incurs an additional fee. Examples include: ICT, chess, football, circus skills, language clubs, cooking, sewing, archery and dance. Please note that there is no late bus service for students staying for after-school activities. If parents have ideas, suggestions or would like to become involved in an extra-curricular activity, please speak to the Lower School Principal or Deputy Principal.

The Lower School students are divided into 'Houses' and each student is allocated to a House at the time of enrolment (Lower School siblings are normally assigned to the same House). Houses may compete with each other at Sports or in other ways thus providing a focus for group loyalty and promoting school spirit. At Dwight Lower School our three Houses are Explorers, Discoverers and Inventors. Each term there are events related to sports, languages and the arts where Houses compete against each other.

Events and Activities Drama Productions Students participate in at least one theatrical performance each year. Past productions include the Alice in Wonderland, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Dr. Who. There are many ways that parents can provide behind the scenes support for these productions. Please contact your child's class teacher more information.

Music Conservatory Programme Our Music department is a hub of activity throughout the school day, with a variety of musical activities during lunchtimes and also after school. In addition to the practical music-making of the day-to-day curriculum, the Dwight London Music Conservatory Programme provides students with the opportunity to take individual music lessons and ensemble coaching in order to develop their musical talents, skills and knowledge. The programme offers a wide variety of musical styles by our committed team of experienced professional musicians and teachers including graduates and teaching staff from prestigious institutions such as The London Community Gospel Choir, The Royal College of Music, The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, The Guildhall School of Music & Drama and The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and artists performing in well-established leading jazz ensembles, choirs and rock bands.

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The House System

Individual Lessons We currently offer, at an additional cost private tuition in piano, voice, violin, viola, classical guitar, electric guitar, drum, cello & percussion, flute, clarinet, saxophone, bass guitar, theory and composition. Many of our students participate in the ABRSM (Association of British Royal Schools of Music) Examinations here at school. Lessons are open to all students. Please note that to receive their instrumental instruction, students are withdrawn from regular lessons but kept on a rota to ensure that they do not miss out on individual subjects unduly. There are often after-school extra-curricular activities that feature musical ensembles. London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) Dwight Lower School students with a keen interest in the performing arts may choose to work towards LAMDA certification with an external tutor who regularly visits the Lower School. For more information, please contact the Lower School Principal.

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Educational Visits

The School organises many educational visits in and around London to enhance the taught curriculum. Below are examples of the many destinations we visit, on age-appropriate school excursions: Houses of Parliament

National Theatre (South Bank)

Golders Hill Park (Hampstead)

National Portrait Gallery (Trafalgar Square)

Natural History Museum (South Kensington)

Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cricket Ground (St Johns Wood)

Tate Britain (Pimlico)

Butterfly World (St Albans)

British Library (Euston)

St Albans Victorian Classroom (St Albans Cathedral)

All England Tennis Club (Wimbledon)

Geffrye Museum (Hoxton)

(Palace of Westminster)

Beaufort Court Headquarters for RES (Renewable Energy Systems)

Barbican Hall (City of London)

Saatchi Gallery (Chelsea) Wigmore Hall (Marylebone) Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Globe (Bankside)

O2 British Music Experience (Greenwich)

The British Museum (Bloomsbury)

Royal Botanical Gardens (Kew)

Paradise Farm Park (Hertfordshire)

National Gallery of Art (Trafalgar Square)

Tate Modern (Bankside)

Emirates Stadium Chickenshed Theatre

Planetarium & Royal Observatory (Greenwich)

Royal Academy of Arts (Piccadilly)

Transport Museum (Covent Garden)

V&A Museum of Childhood (Bethnal Green)

Little Angel Theatre (Islington)

Victoria & Albert Museum (South Kensington)

Wallace Collection (Marylebone)

Southbank Centre (South Bank)

Science Museum (South Kensington)

Wembley Stadium

We also have annual residential trips for our older students and these include a trip to France in Year 6 as well as a New York Exchange trip. In Year 5 students have a residential trip to Flatford Mill, a National Trust property in Suffolk. Year 4 students have a residential trip to Moat Mount in nearby Hertfordshire and Year 3 students enjoy a sleepover at school.

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Student Welfare

Safeguarding We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of our students. All staff and volunteers will endeavour to work together to encourage the development of an ethos that embraces difference and diversity, keeps everyone safe and respects the rights of all members of the community. The school fully recognises its responsibilities for Child Protection/Safeguarding and the full policy can be found at www.dwightlondon.org.

Student Expectations/Essential Agreements • We are honest • We are kind • We look after property • We listen well • We work hard • We are gentle The Lower School promotes a positive and tolerant community. In the event that persistent infringements occur, the Lower School has a full and comprehensive approach to dealing with bullying and their effects.

PSPE (Personal, Social, Physical Education) Within the spirit of the IB Learner Profile this programme plays a vital role in supporting each student’s social and emotional development. As well as specific PSPE lessons, themes will be supported through assemblies and within the framework of the essential agreements in the Lower School.

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Student behaviour in the Lower School is based on the following Golden Rules:

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Partnering with Parents

Partnering with Parents The school believes, and research confirms, that parents play a crucial part in their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s learning and as such we welcome and value their support in setting high expectations. We ask parents to ensure that they help to reinforce the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policies and procedures that are put into place for the well-being of our entire community, to stay in regular contact with the school on academic as well as pastoral matters, and to support our Parent Association and its activities and initiatives as much as possible.

Parental Involvement

Parent Workshops The Lower School facilitates several parent workshops throughout the academic year, these have included subjects such as Phonics, Positive Behaviour Models and Mathematics.

Dwight Parent Association Dwightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parent Association is a volunteer parent organisation that provides a focal point for the school community. All Dwight parents are automatically members. Through class representatives the Parent Association facilitates the communication between class teachers and parents in relation to volunteers for classroom or special events. The class representatives also facilitate the social interaction among families in the school community. It serves as a fundraising vehicle for agreed charities as well as selected school community events and projects for both Upper and Lower School. Activities include The Winter Fair, International Food Fair, teacher appreciation activities, Book Fair and a Summer Fair. The Parent Association also collaborates with the school to support arts, drama and musical productions and assist with sporting events. The monthly Parent Association Community Newsletter provides up-to-date information on upcoming activities as well as a links to local events . The Parent Association offers support for new families to assist them in their transition to both London and the school via its Parent Ambassador Programme. Parents interested in becoming more involved or who have any questions should email Karen Strickland, Marketing and Communications Manager at kstrickland@dwightlondon.org who will direct you to the appropriate Parent Association contact.

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Parental involvement in the Lower School is welcomed. Parents may wish to come in and share a special celebration from their home culture, help with an art activity, read with or to the children, or even do some cooking. Parents should contact their class teacher, the Lower School Principal, or the Deputy Lower School Principal, if they wish to help in class.

School Consultative Group

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The School Consultative Group (SCG) is made up of individuals who serve by invitation of the Head of School. The SCG aims to involve parents in the strategic development of Dwight School London utilising the professional skills and knowledge of parents who bring management and leadership experience, prior independent or international school governance experience, and parental perspective.

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Health and Safety

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First Aid and Medical Care Any student complaining of illness or who has been injured is sent to the School Office for one of the qualified First Aiders to examine and, where appropriate, treat. Parents are contacted if there are any doubts over the health or welfare of a student. In the event of a serious incident an ambulance will be called and a member of staff will accompany the student to hospital. Parents are asked to go immediately to the hospital. It is essential that parents provide the school with emergency contact information, and that this is kept up-to-date with any health related issues. Medication at School Students may not carry any form of medication with them at school. Authorised medicines must be handed to the school welfare officer (or in her absence, the relevant Office Administrator) who will be responsible for the storage and administration.

The Fire Drill evacuation maps are displayed throughout the school. In the event of a fire alarm, students are escorted from their classrooms or play areas by their teachers to the central assembly points displayed where attendance registers are taken to ensure everyone has evacuated the building. There are regular fire drills each term.

Closure of School Procedures On some occasions, it may be necessary to close or cancel school. The following procedures will be followed whenever it is necessary to cancel or close school due to inclement weather, fire, etc. The health and safety of students shall be the primary consideration in all decisions or actions taken at times of inclement weather or other emergencies. Prior to the school day • In the case of closure due to inclement weather the school where possible will give prior warning. • The Head of School will ensure that all parents and staff are notified via a Clarion Call and a message will also be placed on the school website. Procedures for closing school while in session If an emergency necessitates the closure of the school during school hours, the subsequent guidelines will be followed: • The Head of School will ensure that all parents and staff are notified via a Clarion Call and a message will be placed on the school website. • At all times when the school buildings must be evacuated, all students and staff will exit the buildings in an orderly fashion as rehearsed. Students will be kept at the designated meeting place or other suitable location until parents can arrange to pick them up. • Upper School Students who walk or cycle to school will be dismissed within 30 minutes of the time that school closure is announced, as long as it is safe to do so. This will only be done after ensuring that all parents have been notified. The Head of School will inform teachers when students may be released. • The Head of School will determine whether school buses are able to run. If deemed safe, students will be dismissed to their buses. All other students will remain at school under teacher supervision until a parent or nominated guardian arrives to take them home.

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Fire Drill Policy

Delayed Departure from School If conditions exist that make it unsafe for students to travel home on foot (severe weather, civil disturbances, etc.) students will remain at school under teacher supervision. When travel on foot has been deemed safe, the school will be closed and the students sent home following the procedures listed above.

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Parental Decisions Although the school will take every precaution to ensure the safety of all students during an emergency, there may be times when parents would prefer to collect their children earlier. If they choose to do this, parents must inform the School Office to ensure that all students are accounted for.

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Communication

Communication Parents are encouraged to contact the school by email whenever they have a concern or query. For student-specific communications, the first point of contact is the Class Teacher. More general matters are best dealt with by contacting the Lower School Deputy Principal or Principal. Parents should expect emails to be acknowledged within 48 hours or less. Where to go for the latest information:

Newsletters

The newsletter contains key dates for the forthcoming week along with a link to the full Parent Calendar. Links to the other schools newsletters and news items are also included.

Website The school has its own website where information, including the calendar, is accessible. The website has information relating to school activities and descriptions of the individual schools. There is also a media section where regular news items are posted.

SMS/Text System (Clarion Call) The school has an SMS/Text system in place called Clarion Call for event reminders and to communicate with parents in the event of an issue or crisis whereby rapid communication is of the utmost importance. For example, if an important announcement regarding an unexpected closure of the school takes place, the school will send an Clarion Call notification to the mobile phone number that parents have provided advising them to review the website for further details. Parents are asked to let the school Offices know of any changes in contact details so that they can ensure parents receive all messages from the school. It is essential that parents inform the school of changes in mobile phone contact details.

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The school produces a weekly Upper and Lower School newsletter every Friday during term-time as well as a Whole School newsletter from the Head of School. Parents are emailed the newsletter directly via the school website. The weekly newsletter, along with past newsletters, are also available on the website.

Yearbook The school plans to introduce an annual Yearbook to be published at the end of every school year as a keepsake for the students and staff. It will be an optional purchase by pre-order only.

School Calendar

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During the 2015-16 academic year, the school will launch a new website that will feature an online calendar system. This will allow parents, students and staff to be able to subscribe to school events via iCal, or RSS feeds. Apple iPhone users will also able to subscribe. The parent calendar will be divided into the following sub categories:

•

Lower School Events

•

Upper School Events

•

Performing Arts Events

•

Sports Events

•

Whole School Events

This will allow parents, students and staff the ability to subscribe to event information relevant to them. Subscription links will be located on the calendar section of the school website.

Complaints Policy The School recognises there will be times when parents may have concerns and a complaints procedure is in place to allow concerns and complaints to be raised and addressed in a fair and open manner. It is the School‘s intention to use this procedure as a means of engaging in constructive dialogue and where appropriate to make improvements. The full policy can be found at www.dwightlondon.org.

Admissions/Withdrawal If you would like to discuss the admission of a sibling, friend or relative, please contact the admissions office, admissions@dwightlondon.org. If you plan for your child to leave the school, please ensure you give appropriate written notice to the Head of School or the Admissions Director. Requests for references or support for entrance exams for the next receiving school should be directed to the Lower School Principal who must approve and authorise all references sent from the school. The Admissions Director is pleased to offer any assistance to families moving abroad seeking information on other international schools.

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Contacts at a Glance

The first point of contact for any personal and academic issues relating to the progress and welfare of students

Class Teacher

Additional Educational Needs

Ms. Elena Tsioupra etsioupra@dwightlondon.org

English as an Additional Language

Mr. Richard Miles: rmiles@dwightlondon.org

Mother Tongue Languages

Mrs. Anita Bamberger-Hayim: a.bamberger-hayim@ dwightlondon.org

Reporting Absence

Mrs. Mylene McCullough mmccullough@ dwightlondon.org

Technology/IT

Ms. Nic Tye: ntye@dwightlondon.org

After-School Activities

Mr. Geoff Cusack: gcusack@dwightlondon.org

Medical

Mrs. Anne Welch: awelch@dwightlondon.org

School transport

Mrs. Michelle Payne: mpayne@dwightlondon.org

Catering

Mr. James Stacey - jstacey@holroydhowe.com

Uniform

Braggs: http://www.braggsschoolwear.co.uk/

Tuition and other fees

Ms Sarah Marksman: smarksman@dwightlondon.org

Admissions/Withdrawal

Ms. Mary Langford: mlangford@dwightlondon.org

General enquiries or assistance with any school-related concern/question.

Miss Karen Strickland: kstrickland@dwightlondon.org

Formal complaints.

Mr. Matt Parkin: mparkin@dwightlondon.org

Any issue which remains unresolved having exhausted all other channels

Mr. David Rose: drose@dwightlondon.org

Dwight School London 2015-2016 School Calendar Month Sept 2015

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan 2016

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

June

July

TH 3 10 17 24

F 4 11 18 25

7th: First Day of Term 1

7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25

1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26

2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27

26th-30th: Half Term Holiday

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23

6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24

7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25 2 9 16 23 30

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27 4 11 18 25

7 14 21 28 5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

7 14 21 28 5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23 30

6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24

10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 13 20 27

Notes

14th Dec-3rd Jan: Winter Holidays

4th: First Day of Term 2

15th - 19th: Half Term Holiday

25th March - 17th April: Spring Break

18th: First Day of Term 3 2nd: May Day Holiday

30th May - 5th June: Half Term Holiday

3 10 17 24 1 8 15 22 29

8th July: Term Ends

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Dwight School London 6, Friern Barnet Lane 266 LanAn Road,London JinQiao, PuDong, 201206 info@dulwich-shanghai.cn N11 3LX www.dulwich-shanghai.cn +44 (0)208920 0600 office@dwightlondon.org www.dwightlondon.org