LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
Lower School Parent and Student Handbook
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2019-2020
Our Mission Dwight School London prepares young people to become leaders in the world. Our students thrive in a curriculum rooted in our three educational pillars. The first is personalised learning; the second, a commitment to community; the third, our global vision.
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Personalised Learning
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Personalised programmes extend, challenge and support each student. Our student body comprises a range of academic ability and talent, and we pride ourselves on meeting each student’s needs through the International Baccalaureate Programmes. Based on international standards of excellence, Dwight is committed to realising each student's potential by finding and nurturing their “Spark of Genius”.
Community
Global Vision
Dwight School’s commitment to the International Baccalaureate Programmes ensures each child’s personal development is shaped by the IB Learner Profile which fosters leadership, initiative and service learning. Students are inspired and educated to make a positive difference to their school, to their communities and to the world. Authentic local and global community projects nurture awareness and empathy to support the IB Learner Profile traits. We seek to strengthen the relationships between home and school, and relationships within the school, to maintain an open, welcoming and supportive community.
Dwight School London serves a diverse community of students from all over the world, and the International Baccalaureate Programmes provide challenges and opportunities that emphasise intercultural awareness while encouraging students to become global thinkers and thus global citizens. We encourage students to see challenges and opportunities from a global perspective. Our school literally extends into other regions of the world through the range of cultures and experiences of our students, and the global network of 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 organisations 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 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
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
WELCOME TO LOWER SCHOOL
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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.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
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 achieve their potential.
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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 to ensure that we are able to work in an effective partnership. Best wishes Mrs. Alison Cobbin 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 prepare 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 childrens’ 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
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Lower School Staff Information
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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
K1 & K2
Mrs. Juliana Lopes
jlopes@dwightlondon.org
Reception 1V 2G
Ms. Sara Tomlin Ms. Gabriella Voica Mrs. Srinanda Gupta
3BR
Mrs. Jenna Brooks & Mr. Waseem Rehman
4B
Mr. Sjoerd Van den Bosch
stomlin@dwightlondon.org gvoica@dwightlondon.org sgupta@dwightlondon.org jbrooks@dwightlondon.org, wrehman@ dwightlondon.org svandenbosch@dwightlondon.org
5P
Miss Claire Pitts
cpitts@dwightlondon.org
6L
Miss. Anna Larragy
alarragy@dwightlondon.org
6S
Mr. Stephen Spoore
sspoore@dwightlondon.org
Lower School Specialist Teachers PE Art Music Library French Learning Support
Mr. Chris Williams, Miss. Finja Kruse and Mr. Matt Parkin Miss. Finja Kruse Mr. Viktor Mastoridis Mrs. Ginka Mastoridis Mrs. Alex Bettelheim Mrs. Elena Demetriou, Mr. Richard Miles, Mrs. Jacqui Rogers, Mrs. Elena Tsioupra, Mrs. Jane Kendal & Mrs. Rachel Diment
Lower School Administrative Staff Name
Mylene McCullough
Area of Responsibility Phone
Lower School Office
Email Address
0208 920 0651 mmccullough@dwightlondon.org
Whole School Contacts Name
Mrs. Alison Cobbin Ms. Miriam Hill Mrs. Michelle Payne Ms. Mary Langford Ms. Kate Livingstone Mr. Angelo Evangelou Mrs. Anne Welch Mr. Blake Spahn
Area of Responsibility Phone
Head of School Business Administration School Bus Service Admissions Student Accounts Communications Welfare Officer Proprietor
0208 920 0633 0208 920 0611 0208 920 0638 0208 920 0637 0208 920 0611 0208 920 0631 0208 920 0642 (+1)2127246360
Email Address
acobbin@dwightlondon.org mhill@dwightlondon.org mpayne@dwightlondon.org mlangford@dwightlondon.org klivingstone@dwightlondon.org aevangelou@dwightlondon.org awelch@dwightlondon.org bspahn@dwight.edu
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To contact a member of staff, please use the email below
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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 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. 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 or white) • Long sleeve school polo shirt (navy, red or 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) • Optional summer dress PE and Games: • School logo PE top • Black/navy shorts • Football boots • Trainers • Black one piece swimming costume • Black swimming trunks • Navy school tracksuit Lower School PE Kit will be phased out to the new kit in the academic year 2020/21.
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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:
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What Should Students Bring to School? Equipment must be clearly marked with your child’s name. The school provides stationery; however, students could 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.
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Students need to also have the following:
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A PE bag A backpack for books A sunhat
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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.
Lost and Found
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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
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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. This takes place within the classroom and through whole school online safety assemblies. 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 student’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 8.40am 9.55am – 10.20am 10.20am - 10.40am 11.40am - 1.00pm 12.00pm - 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 to 6 Playtime and Lunch (varied lunch sittings) Kindergarten - Year 6 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) Dwight afterschool and homework club and Kindergarten and Reception afterschool and homework club.
Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures Kindergarten and Reception students enter via Woodside Lane and the gate for the Lodge is open from 8.30am-9.00am and students should go straight to their classrooms. 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 8.40am. It is important that all students are on time for their lessons as late arrival can disrupt their learning and that of their classmates. Year 1 and Year 2 students should be collected from the bottom playground, Year 3 to Year 6 students should be collected from the top playground. The gate on Woodside Avenue opens at 3.30pm. Kindergarten and Reception 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
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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 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
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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 directly at dwightschool@holroydhowe.com.
Sample Menu
Payment Lower School lunches are to be paid in advance on a by-term basis via the school website.
School Bus Service
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 1.00pm 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.
School Shuttle Service The school offers a shuttle service bookable in advance via the Transport Office. The Transport Coordinator Mrs. Michelle Payne is available between 10.40am and 1.00pm daily, or you can email her on mpayne@dwightlondon.org, or leave a voicemail. This service incurs an additional cost except for families who have children at both Lower and Upper School campuses. Please see the transport section of the website for more details.
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 or your child is absent, they must inform the Lower School office via email at lsabsence@dwightlondon.org. The school office will then inform the class teacher. Students must be signed out and collected from the Lower School Office. Please do not go directly to your child’s classroom.
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.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
Dwight School London provides both a door-to-door bus service, and a point-to-point pick up service along the Finchley Road corridor. All of our buses are driven by qualified and experienced drivers with appropriate child safeguarding vetting. Students from the age of four may use these services that run 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 are additional fees for this service. Please see the transport section of the website for more details. In the event there are any changes to your child’s regular bus routine please contact lowerschoolbus@ dwightlondon.org.
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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.
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Information about procedures arising from repeated tardiness or absence are set out in the school’s Attendance Policy on the school website.
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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.
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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. Communicators 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.
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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 the 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, WWF and War Child. 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, 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.
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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, social 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 specialist teachers and speech and language therapist, is an integral part of the school community and is a resource for all teachers and parents.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) In the Lower School, 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 shared recognised English 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. EAL and Quest teachers will also work in the classroom alongside specific children from time to time.
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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. Students with EHC plans are given appropriate provision and support as stated on their plan. The aim is to help students achieve the skills required to access, as far as possible, the IB curriculum.
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Mother Tongue Languages Mother-tongue is a child's first or native language and Dwight School London aims to inform parents of the maintenance and development of their child's mother-tongue language and literacy skills. Such support includes:
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• 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 standardised assessments twice 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-Year 6 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 July: End of year report There are also 2 ACE time (Adult, Child Evaluation) sessions scheduled in Terms 1 & 2. These provide an opportunity for your child to share their learning with you within the classroom environment.
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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.
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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 teachers to check students' 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.
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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:
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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 electronically each term so that parents can register their children for these after-school activities online. 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. 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.
All students in the Lower School have the opportunity to partake in an extra-curricular ‘wow’ lesson within the school day. These have included First Aid training, bike and road safety, magic lessons, ballroom dancing, yoga and sign language.
The House System 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 Artists, Pioneers and Visionaries. Each term there are events related to sports, languages and the arts where Houses compete against each other.
Events and Activities Students participate in at least one class assembly each year. As well as this, Lower Primary students perform in the Lower Primary Christmas Show and Upper Primary students perform in the Upper Primary Talent show and a bi-annual whole school show.
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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'WOW' Lessons
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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
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We have annual residential trips for our older students and these include a Year 6 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. 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 (Palace of Westminster)
National Portrait Gallery (Trafalgar Square)
British Library (Euston) Beaufort Court Headquarters for RES (Renewable Energy Systems) Science Museum (South Kensington) Royal Botanical Gardens (Kew) Tate Modern (Bankside) Royal Academy of Arts (Piccadilly) V&A Museum of Childhood (Bethnal Green) Wallace Collection (Marylebone) National Theatre
(South Bank) Natural History Museum (South Kensington) Tate Britain (Pimlico) St Albans Victorian Classroom (St Albans Cathedral) Geffrye Museum (Hoxton) Barbican Hall (City of London) O2 British Music Experience (Greenwich) Paradise Farm Park (Hertfordshire) Emirates Stadium Chickenshed Theatre Transport Museum (Covent Garden) Little Angel Theatre (Islington)
Southbank Centre (South Bank) Golders Hill Park (Hampstead) Butterfly World (St Albans) Shakespeare’s Globe (Bankside)
The British Museum (Bloomsbury) National Gallery of Art (Trafalgar Square) Planetarium & Royal Observatory (Greenwich) Victoria & Albert Museum (South Kensington) Wembley Stadium Moat Mount
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Forest School
Forest School offers everyone, particularly children and young people, the opportunity to learn through experience within a woodland setting in a hands-on manner to develop their self-esteem and confidence. At Dwight London, the Forest School programme supports and complements the principles of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme as well as our three educational pillars. Our Forest School takes place in a small, private woodland less than 15 minutes away at Moat Mount, Mill Hill and is led by a trained Forest School Leader and supporting teaching staff. The site offers us opportunities to explore, use tools, light a campfire, observe nature and seasons, climb trees and be creative. Daily risk-assessments are carried out to ensure the site is safe for use. We aim to use the site in all weather, building a shelter on rainy days or having a warming campfire on cold days. For safety, we will only cancel a session due to high winds.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
Travel to and from the site is provided by the school and each vehicle has seat belts. Medical bags are carried on board the vehicles.
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Forest School Uniform
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
We learn in all weathers so the correct clothing is essential. The children spend time sitting and kneeling on the forest oor which is often damp so waterproof trousers are extremely important. Please use this uniform guide so you are aware of what your child should be wearing. Please make sure long hair is tied up on Forest School days.
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Sun
Rain
Cold
Sturdy trainers or walking boots
Waterproof boots
Snow boots
Leggings or tight trousers
Waterproof dungarees/trousers
Waterproof jacket or raincoat and thermal under wear including eeces
Sunhat
Waterproof jacket or raincoat
Hat, scarf and gloves and thermal socks
Suncream
Fleece if cold
Waterproof dungarees/trousers
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There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16
Student Welfare
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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/about/policies.
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 bulling 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.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
Student behaviour in the Lower School is based on the following Golden Rules:
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LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16
Partnering with Parents
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Partnering with Parents The school believes, and research confirms, that parents play a crucial part in their child’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 school’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 Dwight’s Parent Association is a volunteer parent organisation that provides a focal point for the school community. All Dwight parents are automatically members. The Parent Association are now a registered charity (1182921). 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 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 Angela Bridge, DPA Chair at dpa@dwightlondon.org who will direct you to the appropriate Parent Association contact.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
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.
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School Consultative Group
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
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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LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16
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.
Fire Drill Policy 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
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
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. We also require written confirmation from parents to administer medication.
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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.
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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.
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.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
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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LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16
Communication
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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. In addition there is a password protected Parent Portal section of the website where parents can find a vast amount of useful information.
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.
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
The school produces a weekly Upper, Lower School and EYFS newsletter every Friday during term-time as well as regular Whole School newsletters 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.
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Yearbook The school has 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
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
The school website features an online calendar system. This allows parents, students and staff to subscribe to school events via iCal, or RSS feeds. Apple iPhone users are also able to subscribe. The parent calendar is divided into the following sub categories:
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•
Lower School Events
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Upper School Events
•
Whole School Events
This allows parents, students and staff the ability to subscribe to event information relevant to them. Subscription links are 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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LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2015-16
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
Contacts at a Glance
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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
Reporting Absence
lsabsence@dwightlondon.org
Technology/IT
Mr. Waseem Rehman: nrehman@dwightlondon.org
After-School Activities
Mr. Waseem Rehman: wrehman@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. Miriam Hill: mhill@dwightlondon.org
Admissions/Withdrawal
Ms. Mary Langford: mlangford@dwightlondon.org
Communications or Social Media Enquiries
Mr. Angelo Evangelou: aevangelou@dwightlondon. org
Formal complaints.
Mr. Matt Parkin: mparkin@dwightlondon.org
Any issue which remains unresolved having exhausted all other channels
Mrs. Alison Cobbin: acobbin@dwightlondon.org
School Proprietor
Mr. Blake Spahn: bspahn@dwight.edu Dwight School 291 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024 (+1) 212 724 6360
Dwight School London 2019-2020 School Calendar
Aug-19
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
June
July
M
T
W 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25
TH 1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26
F 2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27
5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24
7 14 21 28
1 8 15 22 29
2 9 16 23 30
3 10 17 24 31
4 11 18 25
4 11 18 25 2 9 16 23 30
5 12 19 26 3 10 17 24 31
6 13 20 27 4 11 18 25
7 14 21 28 5 12 19 26
1 8 15 22 29 6 13 20 27
6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24 2 9 16 23 30
7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 3 10 17 24 31
1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26 4 11 18 25
2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27 5 12 19 26
3 10 17 24 31 7 14 21 28 6 13 20 27
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
1 8 15 22 29
2 9 16 23 30
3 10 17 24
4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24
7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25
1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
1 8 15 22 29
2 9 16 23 30
3 10 17 24 31
Notes 26th: Bank Holiday 27th-30th: Staff Inset 2nd: New Student Orientation 3rd: First Day of Term 1
21st- 25th: Half Term Holiday
13th: Term Ends at Midday 16th Dec-3rd Jan: Winter Holidays
6th: First Day of Term 2
LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME BOOKLET 2019-20
Month
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17th - 21st Half Term Holiday
10th/13th: Bank Holidays 20th: First Day of Term 3
8th: May Day Holiday
25th - 29th May: Half Term Holiday 1st June: Staff Inset
1st July: Term 3 Ends 2nd July: Staff Inset
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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