Craigleith (Upper Sixth House)
Boarding Handbook 2024-25
A welcome
From Carolyn Harrison, Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Welcome to your Fettes College Boarding Handbook which has been created to support and guide you and to give you key information which you will need for life in your Boarding House.
It is updated annually, so all members of the House and their parents should acquaint themselves with its content each year. The Handbook provides you with some understanding of the structure of House and School life and it also includes important sections on keeping you safe, looking after your wellbeing and additional student support.
You should also read the School Handbook and the School Rules with your parents or guardians. This Handbook will have more detailed information on our standards and expectations and important school policies, such as safeguarding guidelines, promoting positive behaviour and complaints procedures. You may also find it helpful to view Term Dates.
I hope you will find this a useful resource but if you have any questions, please get in touch with your Houseparent or you can contact me directly at CM.Harrison@fettes.com.
The Aims of the College
To achieve our Vision and Mission we will ensure that our students:
• feel valued and respected as individuals
• receive the highest possible quality of education, engaging them in rigorous and relevant opportunities in a dynamic curriculum that creates life long learners
• feel safe, have a sense of personal worth, are thoughtful and considerate of the needs of others, while possessing a willingness to take on responsibility
• are encouraged to stretch and challenge themselves
• develop a sense of self-confidence, integrity, emotional resilience, loyalty, good manners, leadership skills and teamwork
• value a sense of community
• are surrounded by inspirational caring staff
• feel represented and are provided with equal opportunities regardless of gender, identity, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or religion
Safeguarding
Fettes College is dedicated to ensuring that all students and staff live together in a safe environment.
All staff at Fettes want you to feel that you are happy and getting the best of the opportunities that this school provides during the time you are with us. If you are concerned or worried about anything, you can take any issues and concerns to an adult confident in the knowledge that you will be treated with respect, listened to and the appropriate action taken. We are here to help and support you.
All safeguarding concerns are taken very seriously. If you raise a concern with a member of staff, depending on its nature, it will either be referred to your Houseparent or to a member of the Child Protection Team. Further guidance on how safeguarding concerns are followed up is published in the School Handbook.
Responding to Safeguarding Concern Information for Students
The Chair of Governors and the Governing Body are responsible for overseeing all aspects of safeguarding in the School. Ms Lindsay Paterson is the Governor responsible for safeguarding in the College and there is also a Safeguarding Governor with responsibility for the Prep School. Alongside the Head the following team have responsibility for Safeguarding matters in the School:
Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Mrs Carolyn Harrison
Child Protection Co-ordinator (CPC)
Ms Clare McDonnell
Mr Andrew Archibald
Mr Colin Dundas
Child Protection Officer (Deputy)
Child Protection Officer (Deputy)
Health and Wellbeing
“feel represented and provided with equal opportunities regardless of gender, identity, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or religion”
MEDICAL CENTRE
Fettes has a dedicated Medical Centre. In addition to our Nursing Team, we are supported by the GPs at Bangholm Loan NHS practice, who run regular doctor surgeries in school and issue prescriptions. Fettes has a professional Wellbeing Team made up of independent counsellors, a life coach and clinical psychologists. Beyond that The Hub is our dedicated safe space at school. It is staffed by our Head of Wellbeing and our PSHE Prefects and is used for Therapet and some 1:1 sessions.
More information can be found in our Additional Support Services booklet
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS AND ALLERGIES
It is important that you let us know of any dietary requirements and allergies (e.g. halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten/lactose free, peanuts and legumes etc) so we can pass this on to the Catering Team in the Dining Hall and ensure that we cater appropriately for you at meals and other events.
ILLNESS AND MEDICATION
Matron must be informed of any medications, including painkillers, and these should be handed in for safe-keeping. It is therefore essential for parents/ guardians to tell Matron/Houseparent if they have given their children any medication. Those who are taken ill or who are injured must report in the first instance to Matron, the Houseparent or the Tutor on duty for medical attention.
Emergency cases should go straight to the Medical Centre. Medicines must not be self-administered unless permission has been given by the Medical Centre. If day students are taking a course of medication or have been given one-off medication before attending school, families must inform House Staff. Any medication that needs to be taken during the course of the school day should be handed in to staff upon arriving in house in the morning.
PEER SUPPORT
Peer to peer support and mentoring is provided by our School Welfare and PSHE Prefects. They are also trained Mentors in Violence Prevention, which aims to support young people to positively influence the attitudes and behaviour of their peers. Our student Mental Health Ambassadors have undergone more specific mental health training and are visible points of contact for the student body to speak to and are part of our Psychciety (Mental Health and Psychology Society). The team of Bold Voices Ambassadors empower young people to recognise and tackle gender inequality and gendered violence. Tootoot is our anonymous reporting tool where students can report any problem or concern and members of our community are trained and on hand to help as they understand the school and the issues that may arise.
STUDENT VOICE AND HOUSE COMMITTEES
All students have the opportunity to voice their suggestions regarding the running of their House or to raise concerns through established committees. There are a wide range of groups and societies which provide a platform for student voice to be heard, this list includes but is not exclusive: the Student Council; African Caribbean Society; Queer Culture; Asian Society; Fettes Equalities Society; Bold Voices; Islamic Society; Jewish Society and Christian Union. Members from across all year groups are welcome and encouraged to join these groups.
“…surrounded by inspirational caring staff”
Welcome to Craigleith
A place to live.
From Houseparents Mr & Mrs du Vivier:
Craigleith will be a new experience for you all. Coming, as you do, from different Houses, you will all be used to different ways of doing things. The most important aspect of the Craigleith community is to come together with a shared sense of purpose: everyone is here to make the very most of their final year and to do the very best they can in the final exams. There is a key team in House to help and support you through this often stressful year: the Houseparents and Assistants, Matron and the visiting Tutors are all here for you. As an Upper Sixth the atmosphere you create through your hard work and community spirit will be the thing that allows you to flourish and achieve all you are capable of.
Throughout the year it is vital that the Upper Sixth fully involve themselves with their Senior House. This can be through socials, sport, Inter-House competition, House Singing, Mile Relays, House Plays, the final Sports Day or simply house visiting. All Upper Sixth are expected to support Inter-House competitions if they are not involved in their own games commitments.
The Sports Prefects will liaise with the Lower Sixth Games Prefect in their Senior House regarding the selection of Senior House teams. It is the responsibility of the Lower Sixth Games Prefect to e-mail the final selection to the Head of Boys’ and Head of Girls’ Games by the stated deadline.
HOUSEPARENT (BOYS): Charlie du Vivier
HOUSEPARENT (GIRLS): Kirsty du Vivier
OTHER KEY STAFF WITHIN
THE HOUSE ARE:
Assistant Houseparent: Miss Solenn Gueganton
Assistant Houseparent: Mr Malcolm Fraser-Lewis
YOUR HOUSE
Study bedrooms/ Day rooms
Matron: Mrs Shelley Johnson
Houseparents are always the first point of contact and if they cannot answer your query they will refer you to the most relevant person. School communication will normally be through an email from SchoolPost and we ask that you pay attention to these emails as they will contain important information and often require a response. In particular, timely responses relating to travel arrangements and destinations for Recommended Leaves, Half-Term Holidays, End-of-Terms and information about Guardians are appreciated.
The cleaning of a study or bedroom is the occupant’s responsibility and studies must be kept clean at all times. Where there is pinboard on the walls, notices and suitable posters may be put on the pinboard area, using drawing pins, not staples. Writing or drawing on any surface is forbidden. Bluetack is not allowed as it damages the walls, but special sticky pads will be available for use: please see Mrs Johnson. If asked to clean or tidy their bedrooms by any member of the House staff, students must do so as a matter of priority: rooms will be checked on a Saturday and sanctions will be imposed if the cleaning has not been completed.
Laundry
All Craigleith students are responsible for their own laundry. Laundry is open from 8am to 10pm every day. Please ensure all items are clearly labelled.
TUTOR TEAM
Ms Chandler
Head of Sixth Form/Teacher of English
Ms Cockburn
Head of Geography
Mr Dowey
Teacher of Biology
M Ford
Teacher of Mathematics and Physics
Mr Fraser-Lewis
Teacher of Mathematics
Dr French
External Exams Officer/ Teacher of Mathematics
Miss Gueganton
Teacher of Economics/IB Co-ordinator
Mr Jenkins
Teacher of English/Head of Extracurricular Drama
Miss McDonald
Head of History
Mr McDowell
Head of Government & Politics/ Teacher of History
Mrs Saunders
Head of Psychology
Mrs Smith
Teacher of Classics/Oxbridge Co-ordinator
Ms Spencer
Head of Mathematics/i/c DoE Gold
Mr Swift
Teacher of History/EE and EPQ Co-ordinator
Miss Sutherland
Head of Art
Dr Whyte
Director of Studies/Teacher of Chemistry
CO-EDUCATIONAL LIVING
Accommodation areas are clearly divided and designated as single gender areas. Any attempt to break these rules will be a serious breach and will result in disciplinary action.
Respect for each other is important and any issue related to the dominance of one group over any other such as the choice of television programmes, use of the kitchen areas or laundry areas will not be tolerated.
Public displays of affection (PDAs) are not allowed.
Dress should be appropriate and night attire is not allowed outside the accommodation areas (unless in the case of emergency/fire).
“feel safe, have a sense of personal worth, are thoughtful and considerate of the needs of others, while possessing a willingness to take on responsibility”
CARS AND DRIVING LESSONS
Permission for a student to drive a car to/from school is a privilege normally only afforded to the Upper Sixth Form, and is at the discretion of the Head. Students may not travel in a car driven by another student during term time, unless specific clear permission and consent is shared between all involved parents and the School. This would only be established for legitimate and agreed purposes. Students may not travel in a car driven by someone who is not a member of staff or their parent without the permission of the Houseparents. Once permissions are in place and the car is in school, students must log the car keys with the Houseparents, to be kept in a safe.
Students may wish to take driving lessons and present themselves for the theory and practical exams. Written permission is required from parents or a guardian for a student to take driving lessons and exams. Parents and guardians should check the credentials of the instructor before booking lessons. Lessons must be taken in Invigilation Periods or when a student has no other school commitment. Driving tests are beyond the student’s control and so they must excuse themselves in the usual way and well in advance.
EACH BOARDING HOUSE AND THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE:
Is Accountable and Responsible:
Honesty and integrity are aspects of community living. Everyone should adhere to the rules and regulations, and actively contribute to maintaining the safety and security of the boarding house.
Promotes Cooperation and Collaboration:
Teamwork plays a vital role in community living. Active participation, such as oreanising house events, resolving conflicts amicably, and contributing to decision-making processes are encouraged.
Respects
Creates a Supportive Environment:
By embracing the value of community, we foster a supportive environment where everyone feels respected, appreciated, and encouraged.
Community Living
Boundaries and Privacy:
Recognising and respecting personal boundaries is crucial for fostering a sense of safety and privacy within the boarding house.
Maintains
Builds Lasting Relationships:
By fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, we create a sense of belonging that enriches the boarding house experience for all.
Cleanliness and Order:
Taking responsibility for maintainine and cleaning our personal spaces and shared areas helps create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and proud to call the boarding house their home.
HOUSE ROUTINE
MONDAY TO SATURDAY
7am
Wake up: no bells in Craigleith! 7.15-8am Breakfast in Dining Hall. All studies to be tidied 8am Day Students Sign-in 8.10am Area (Sign-in starts 7.50am) 8.20am Leave House for Chapel followed by Lessons 1 - 3 11-11.25am Break in House
5.30-6.45pm Tea/Supper in the Dining Hall 5.15pm Check (until further notice) 2.35pm Leave House for Lessons 7 and 8 (Mon, Wed and Fri) 2.25pm Leave House for Games (Tue, Thur and Sat) 1.35-1.55pm Lunch in Dining Hall (12.30 if free P5 & P6) 11.25am Leave House for Lessons 4 - 6 and Lunch
6.45pm Check* (Sign-in open 6.40pm) 7-9pm Quiet Time in House - no one may be out of House after the start of Quiet Time without the specific permission of the Houseparent or visiting Tutor 10pm Clean Team 10.20pm Moving upstairs to bedrooms 10.30pm In rooms and Tutor check 11pm Recommended lights out *absencefromArea/Checkmustberecordedinthediaryatreceptiondesk
SUNDAY
10.40am
Area on days when there is Morning Chapel. 11am-12.30pm Brunch in Dining Hall. If Morning Chapel, Brunch served following Chapel 12.30-5.00pm Uptown leave
7pm Chapel (if no Morning Chapel) 6.30pm Area (6.40pm if Morning Chapel) 5.30-6.25pm Supper
8pm In House and getting organised for the week 9.40pm Clean Team 9.55pm Moving upstairs to bedrooms 10pm In rooms and check-in with Assistant Houseparent
Assistant Houseparent on duty
MATRON TIMINGS
Mrs Johnson (Matron) is here from 7.30am to 2.30pm every day, apart from Thursday. Please see her for day-to-day queries such as medicine, appointments, pastoral support etc. Outside these times please see the duty member of the House staff, or knock on the du Viviers’ door.
SIGNING IN AND OUT
It is important that ALL members of the House indicate their whereabouts using the following system. For daily comings and goings/trips to Westwoods or Uptown, please sign in and out at the door. If you are going to miss a Check, or going away from House for a longer period (with parental permissions) please highlight this in the diary on the reception desk in addition to signing out when you leave. The School has a legal duty to register the attendance of day students as they arrive in the morning and again as they leave in the evening. Between these times attendance at all Areas/House Checks is obligatory for all students.
FOOD AND MEALS
Attendance at all school meals in the Dining Hall is compulsory for all members of the School.
However, there are kitchen facilities and it is possible for you to do your own cooking, providing you clean up after yourself.
Although there is a Clean Team on duty every evening to tidy the kitchen, it is the responsibility of individuals to clean up after themselves and do their own washing up.
Fast food deliveries are permitted on Wednesdays, Fridays and weekend evenings only. On Wednesdays and Fridays these should be delivered before 6.45pm or between 9-9.30pm and at weekends before 9.30pm. Litter must be dealt with carefully.
HOUSE BANK AND POCKET
MONEY
It is recommended that students have a contactless debit card linked to their own bank account so that they can access money. The nearest bank to the school is the Bank of Scotland and the application process can be completed online and in person with the relevant documentation. Other alternatives are available such as prepaid cards/GoHenry accounts etc. Please speak to the Houseparent if you require any assistance. If students do have their own bank accounts, they are responsible for the safe keeping of their debit or credit card.
MOBILE PHONES
Our policy aims to reduce the distraction of phones whilst understanding their place in our modern society. Mobile phones should not be used around campus during the school day / before 5pm. Sixth Form students are not asked to leave their phones with House staff but their phones should not be seen or used around the school campus before 5pm. If a member of staff sees a phone around campus it will be confiscated and not returned for a period of time. Mobiles can be used in Houses during social times (generally after 5pm) but their use will be monitored to ensure everyone is socialising effectively.
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
Only items approved by House staff are allowed. Standard size fridges, heaters, toasters, kettles etc are not allowed. Please ask House staff before purchasing or bringing any electrical items to Craigleith.
LEAVES - BIRTHDAYS, CULTURAL & OTHER CELEBRATIONS
All requests are at the discretion of the Houseparent. Any large celebrations involving members of the School must be kept to the holidays. If parents wish to take their child out during term time the number of other students invited should be limited to a maximum of five and permission should be sought from their Houseparent(s). Where possible these celebrations should only occur at the weekends or weekday tea leaves and not at a time when there are school commitments.
Weekend and Day Leaves are at the discretion of the Houseparent and should be after all commitments are fulfilled including attending Sunday Chapel. Boarders may take tea leave during the week or lunch leave on Sundays with their family or a nominated guardian.
During the week, (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons) all students should wear school uniform or Games Kit for Uptown Leave.
Students may take leave during these afternoons in the times around their games commitments. They may not leave campus until 2pm and they must be back in school by 5.15pm. Craigleith students may request leave at other times, with permission of the House staff.
Saturday Evening Leaves (Indulgence): Are allowed on any Saturday unless otherwise indicated in the Calendar. Students are required to report out and in to the Houseparents.
You may not leave the House after 10pm unless you have specific permission from Staff on duty.
OFFICE DIARY
All students must ensure House staff are informed WHENEVER YOU WILL BE OUT OF SCHOOL, and that appropriate email permissions have been received. The Forward Planning Diary is kept on the reception desk and if you know that you will be missing Area/Check, please record this absence in the diary.
LOGGING TRAVEL
i-gtm is the system we use to record student travel. It is a requirement that we know the whereabouts of our students whilst in transit to and from School. This system meets the requirements of our regulators (including Tier IV and Care Inspectorate). It gives parents peace of mind and helps us run an efficient and timely transport system for you and your children. https://fettes.i-gtm.com
HOUSE VISITING
Visitors are welcome in the House only at the following times:
Monday - Friday: 6-7pm
Visitors are not permitted in the bedroom areas/ bedrooms.
Weekend Visiting is at the discretion of the Houseparent.
Visitors who are not current Fettes students must, as a matter of security and courtesy, inform the Houseparent or the Duty House Tutor on their arrival in the House.
FIRE AND FIRE DRILLS
IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE
Students and staff are to leave the House via the nearest fire door or escape and assemble on the grass area outside the CCF Office/Macleod Centre.
Fire Drills - In House
Make sure that you know the whereabouts of the firefighting equipment kept in House.
If you discover a fire, sound the alarm at once, then try to put it out if that seems sensible and there is no danger to you or anyone else.
Those in the Study Bedrooms should check the studies on either side, waking anyone who is still asleep, then leave the building by the MAIN STAIRCASE.
All should assemble and maintain SILENCE until ALL names have been checked.
Fire Drills - At School
Leave School buildings by the nearest exit. Gather as directed by your class teacher, stand silently and listen carefully to any instructions given.
Do not re-enter any building for any reason until the All-Clear is given.
Maintain SILENCE until the All-Clear is given.
N.B. It is a very serious offence to play or tamper with any of the fire protection or fire-fighting equipment. Lives are put at risk if appliances are damaged or discharged and the matter not reported. There will be a minimum of one House fire practice each term.
A place to learn.
“…the highest possible quality of education… that creates life long learners”
SCHOOL ROUTINE
The Fettes College academic timetable operates on a two-weekly cycle: Week A and Week B. Example A example:
A
0830-0850 Chapel Chapel Late Breakfast Assembly (0825) Chapel Congers (0825)
0850-0930 P1
0935-1015 P2 1020-1100 P3
1130-1210 P4
1215-1255 P5 1300-1335 P6
BREAK
LUNCH
1355-1440 Lunchtime Det / Coffee Concert (‘til 1435) Games from 1400 Games from 1430 Games / Service / Activities 1440-1520 P7 1525-1605 P8
1630-1725 Activities Snr Ac Pri Activities Activities
1730-1825 Activities / Bigside Activities Activities Activities
1730-1900 SUPPER 1915-2045 Quiet Time Quiet Time Quiet Time Quiet Time Quiet Time
ACHIEVEMENT
The Upper Sixth should be a time when students work the hardest they have ever worked! The Autumn Term is chock full of deadlines, juggling University applications with coursework and chunky work like the EE or EPQ. Students need to stay on top of things and get them done by Christmas. Then it’s Trials in January, followed by the aftermath, then the revision season gets going. It’s 8 months which may feel long day to day, but will fly by. Fettesians are an impressive bunch and students will combine all of this with amazing things in music, drama, outdoor pursuits and on the sports pitches. We encourage all students to put in the effort, to aim high and push themselves, but pace themselves too. Students will get as much out of this year as they put in.
UCAS
The completion of the University application process is a priority and good liaison with Academic Tutors is critical.
Personal References will be written by a Houseparent.
Personal statements
By the end of the Summer Term of Lower Sixth, students will have completed a draft but this will need continual re-working throughout the Autumn Term of Upper Sixth.
University open days
Early research and planning will help to clarify choices, and students should make good use of their time by prioritising visits to those institutions they would most like to attend, and which fall in line with their predicted grades. Well in advance of the trip, we require parents to send an email detailing the planned trip and providing details of the confirmed travel.
Course Choices
A good spread of courses and institutions is advised, in line with predictions. Tutors will help students to research their choices and will guide them towards both aspirational and more achievable choices as an insurance. Mrs Davies, Head of University Liaison, will be available at any stage of the process to guide and advise students with her extensive knowledge of the whole system.
Interviews
During the application process, students may be invited to attend an interview and they should be proactive in making arrangements. The student should politely request absence from any classes and communicate with House staff to ensure this is recorded in the events diary. They should plan to dress formally and should do as much research on the course and university as possible.
Applications to America and other international universities requiring SATs tests are usually channelled through Mr Smith, Head of International University Liaison.
During all these stages students should keep their Academic Tutor, Mentor and House staff informed, particularly when offers come in, as we would all like to share their success.
LEARNING
Quiet Time
Quiet Time is from 7-9pm Monday to Friday and there must be absolute silence. Students may work in their own rooms, or in the House or School Library at certain times. The main foyer is a social zone and is not to be used for work. The same rule applies to invigilation periods taken in House. It is expected that the Upper Sixth will also use the weekend and other pockets of time throughout the day appropriately to ensure work is up to date. During the main exam revision and exam period in the Summer Term, designated study areas such as the End Room or the computer room in Craigleith or the main School Library may be used. The Upper Sixth may work late but this will be monitored.
Firefly
Firefly is our digital platform on which teachers can share resources with students, set prep and send out information.
Support for Learning
The SfL Department supports students with additional learning needs, with the aim of helping them develop the broad range of skills required to fulfil their academic potential. Early morning, lunch and study support lessons run throughout the timetable and are tailored to the specific needs of each student.
ACADEMIC TUTORS
Your Tutor will be one of the most important people in your final year and they will guide and support you throughout your time in Craigleith. They will aim to meet with you formally once a week, usually when they are on duty between 7-10.30pm, but also at other times during the week to help you through UCAS and offer pastoral support. We have a strong team of tutors who cover a wide range of academic areas and whilst they are on duty they are more than happy to help with any concerns.
Academic Priority
After lessons on Wednesday afternoons, subject departments run informal drop-in sessions for students, who can visit their teachers for extra support.
ICT ACCEPTABLE USE
POLICY
The ICT Acceptable Use Policy sets out the expectations of all users of the school’s network. It applies to any device connected to the Fettes College network, including but not limited to laptops, tablets and mobile phones, and is guided by the following principles:
1. Ensuring student safety
2. Ensuring network integrity
3. Promoting responsible use
4. Responding to breaches of the policy Students are required to read and electronically sign the ICT Acceptable Use Policy. A breach of the Policy may result in a ban from the ICT Network for a period of time and other disciplinary measures.
The full ICT Acceptable Use Policy can be accessed below.
SUMMER TERM
The IB programme of study and exams usually finishes before the May half-term. The final A Level exams start before half term and can end in the final week of term. Students are welcome to spend study leave at home if they prefer and to spend time away from school after their exams, before returning for the Founder’s Week celebrations.
The students are expected to fulfil school commitments such as team cricket, tennis and athletics training and fixtures, Pipe Band engagements, rehearsals and competitions as well as Chapel Choir throughout the Summer Term.
Should students wish to stay here at school during study or exam leave, they are of course very welcome but they will need to observe all of the usual school routines; meals (including breakfast),checks, bed times, Chapel and the wearing of school uniform.
“develop a sense of self-confidence, integrity, emotional resilience, loyalty, good manners, leadership skills and teamwork”
A place to grow.
“…encouraged to stretch and challenge…”
RESPONSIBILITY
As the senior students in the school, you are the role models who set the tone for others to follow. Your appearance, the way you conduct yourself around the place and your full involvement in the life of the College matters. You have a responsibility this year to work as hard as you can, and to make sure that others in the Craigleith community can do the same. Taking these responsibilities seriously will enable you as a year group to earn some of the privileges associated with the Upper Sixth, and will mean you can take real pride in the way you approach your final year.
PROMOTING POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR
The School’s Promoting Positive Behaviour Policy is based on our belief that all members of the Fettes community, staff and students alike, have an individual responsibility to contribute positively to a tolerant, inclusive school society. This is supported by the generally excellent relationships between students and staff. Students are asked to pursue their own goals with enthusiasm but with respect for others; they are asked to treat others with empathy, understanding and tolerance as outlined in our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy.
Read the Promoting Positive Behaviour policy
SCHOOL RULES
The rules are designed to give a clear parameter for acceptable and unacceptable behaviour and apply to all students whether they be day or boarders otherwise there is unfairness in disciplinary situations. The most important thing to note is that anything that contravenes safety, common sense, the law of the land and normal civilised behaviour is automatically forbidden.
The following are specifically not allowed:
1. Bullying in any of its forms
2. Possession/Use/Supply of drugs
3. Sexual conduct and public displays of affection
4. Theft
5. The unauthorised consumption and purchase of alcohol
6. Possession of fake ID
7. Smoking including use of e-cigarettes
8. Breaking bounds without permission
9. The possession of any weapon (offensive or otherwise)
10. Gambling
11. Driving a motor vehicle without the special permission of the Head and giving lifts to fellow students
12. Going onto the roof of any School building
13. Interference with fixed installations of the School, electrical or otherwise
14. Any communication with the press or media other than with the express permission of the Head
15. Anything that contravenes the ICT Acceptable Use Policy
CO-CURRICULAR
A boarding school cannot exist without its nonacademic activities and, in addition to clubs and societies, a great many sports are played at Fettes. We cater for students of all abilities and offer a broad range of sporting and physical activities for our students. All students are involved in the Games programme on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons.
Furthermore, Fettes is fortunate in its situation in Scotland’s capital city, a centre for both the Arts and Sciences, and we make the very best use of the facilities that Edinburgh and the surrounding areas offer.
A selection of co-curricular opportunities on offer at Fettes include a plethora of music based events, including lessons, Orchestras and Choirs, Drama, Pipes and Drums, Combined Cadet Force (CCF), and The Duke of Edinburgh programme, which enhances teamwork, communication and resilience
House Competitions also form a key part of school life, where students represent their boarding house in a wide range of competitions and challenges throughout the year. Every student is encouraged to get involved and the events cover the full spectrum of academic, sporting, artistic, charitable and outdoor life.
A selection of our co-curricular opportunities can be seen on the following pages.
CAS Trips
Co-curricular
We have over 60 clubs and societies.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Munro Days
Duke of Edinburgh
Mountain Biking
Third Form Field Week
Rock Climbing
The Challenge CCF
School Musical
Appendix
‘value a sense of community’
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS
If you have a problem, suggestion or complaint about any aspect of your treatment at Fettes, in the first instance you should speak to your Tutor, Houseparent, or any other member of the teaching staff.
If the matter cannot be settled to your satisfaction, then you can make a formal written complaint. In the first instance this complaint should be made to your Houseparent who will reply to your complaint within three days. A copy of your written complaint and the reply will be passed to the Senior Deputy Head and a record will be kept.
If you are not satisfied with the response to your complaint, you should make an appointment to see the Senior Deputy Head. You may take a friend, a Prefect, your Tutor or any other member of Staff with you to this meeting. The Senior Deputy Head will talk the matter through and will try to sort out the problem. A record of the meeting and outcome will be kept.
If after this meeting you believe that the matter has not been satisfactorily resolved, you should make an appointment to speak to the Head. Again, you may take a friend, Prefect or member of staff to this meeting.
Safeguarding complaints can be directed to our Safeguarding Governor, Ms Lindsay Paterson, who can be contacted by email: safeguardinggovernor@fettes.com.
You can also contact the Scottish Care Inspectorate if you have a serious complaint: +44 (0)345 600 9527 Monday to Friday, between 9am and 4pm or via email: enquiries@careinspectorate.gov.scot, or you can ask the Deputy Head (Pastoral) for information or advice.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
DAY UNIFORM
There are two school uniform options at Fettes: the Striped Blazer, which is worn with either a charcoal grey kilted skirt or charcoal grey trousers and the Navy Blazer, which is worn with the Fettes tartan kilt. All students are welcome to wear either option but please note the navy blazer cannot be worn with trousers. Pictorial details of the two uniforms, information on formal and sports wear and guidance on casual wear, shirt sleeve order and tracksuits in lessons are below.
Either of the options below are acceptable for Day Wear.
Day Wear - Striped Blazer
• 1 School striped blazer
• 2 Pairs of charcoal grey trousers/2 Charcoal grey kilted skirts (kilts must fit neatly at the waist and be knee length)
• 6 White long-sleeved shirts – no button-down collars /6 White long sleeved revere collar blouses
• 1 Dark navy V-neck jumper
• 1 House tie/1 House badge
• Sixth Form option- alternative “professional” style shirts for day wear
Day
Wear - Navy Blazer
• 1 School navy blazer
• 2 Fettes tartan kilts (kilts must fit neatly at the waist and be knee length)
• 6 White long-sleeved school blouses with revere collars
• 1 Dark navy V-neck jumper
• 1 House badge
Hair
Hair colour should appear natural. All students must have their hair off their face and hair should be tied up if it is long enough to reach the collar. Hair accessories should be simple and unobtrusive.
Jewellery
Students may wear the following:
• ONE simple pair of plain gold, silver or pearl studs in the lobes of the ears.
• A PLAIN gold or silver necklace. No chokers, ‘chunky’ or coloured necklaces allowed.
• A PLAIN gold or silver bracelet.
• ONE simple gold or silver ring.
• NO jewellery may be worn during games.
Nail Varnish and Makeup
Only clear nail varnish may be worn with School uniform. If makeup is noticeable, it is unacceptable.
Outdoor Wear
• 1 Smart, plain dark coat
• 1 Fettes tartan wool scarf (optional)
• 1 Fettes College striped wool scarf (optional)
General items
• 1 Pair of sturdy, polishable black leather shoes (flimsy shoes and shoes with high or kitten heels are not acceptable)
• 6 Pairs of dark grey/black socks or black opaque tights
• 1 Rucksack or bag for books and files
• 1 Pair of warm trousers - for Field Trips
• 1 Cagoule or waterproof anorak - for weekend camps etc.
• 1 Pair of walking boots (optional)
Sportswear
• 1 Named bag to contain all equipment
• 1 Towel (all towels must have loops for hanging stitched to the middle edge of each towel)
• 1 Pair of Fettes tracksuit trousers
• 1 Fettes tracksuit jacket
• 1 Fettes hoodie
• 2 Fettes magenta polo shirts
• 1 Fettes baselayer top
• 1 Fettes PE shorts
• 1 Fettes skort
• 1 Fettes baselayer leggings
• 2 Pairs of Fettes games socks
• 2 Pairs of white sports socks
• 1 House top
• 1 Pair of House socks
• 1 Navy swimming costume/trunks
• 1 Swimming cap (for shoulder length hair and longer)
• 1 Pair of non-marking indoor trainers
Rugby - autumn term
• 2 Fettes reversible rugby shirt
• 2 Pairs of Fettes navy rugby shorts
• 1 Pair of baselayer shorts
• 1 Pair of football boots
• 1 Mouth guard
Hockey – Autumn term for girls and Spring term for boys
• 1 Hockey stick
• 1 Pair of shin guards
• 1 Pair of AstroTurf trainers
• 1 Mouth guard
Lacrosse - spring term
• 1 Lacrosse stick
• 1 Lacrosse goggles
• 1 Lacrosse gloves (optional)
• 1 Pair of football boots
• 1 Mouth guard
Tennis - summer term
• 1 Tennis racket
• 1 Fettes white polo shirt
Cricket - summer term
• 1 Cricket shirt
• 1 Cricket trousers
• 1 Abdo guard
• 1 Cricket slipover or jumper (optional)
Scarves
School scarves may be worn and other scarves are awarded e.g. Colours and may therefore be worn by those that are eligible.
Smart Casuals
When students go on a School outing in smart casuals, clothing must be clean and in a good state of repair and must meet with the complete approval of the Houseparent.
Shirt Sleeve Order
Students must maintain a very neat and smart turnout. Shirts must be tucked in and sleeves folded neatly to just above the elbow. No tie, jersey or blazer is to be worn. Jerseys may not be tied over shoulders or around the waist. During shirt sleeve order shorts may be worn in the Dining Hall.
Tracksuits
Only SCHOOL tracksuits may be worn for Games. Tracksuits should be clean and in a good state of repair.
Tracksuit trouser bottoms are to be zipped and neat. Frayed and excessively long trousers are not acceptable.
The ONLY times it is acceptable for students to attend lessons in tracksuits are:
• When they have been specifically instructed to because they are leaving for a games fixture immediately after a class
• When they have been specifically instructed to attend a PE lesson in PE kit
• When they have been specifically instructed to because they will be doing a unit on movement in Drama class
• When they have been given special permission because the work they will be doing in Art class requires it
If students are required to wear tracksuits for a lesson they must change into uniform as soon as possible: if a tracksuit is required Period 1, 2 or 3, they should change into uniform at break; if a tracksuit is required Period 4 or 5 they should attend the first three lessons in uniform and change at break. If a tracksuit is required for afternoon lessons, they should change AFTER lunch.
SCHOOL SHOP
THE FETTES COLLEGE SHOP
The Fettes College Shop is managed by the School and sells all school uniform, sportswear and equipment, academic books, stationery, gift items, toiletries and confectionary. Full details of uniform requirements can be found on the shop website: www.shop.fettes.com. Orders can be managed by phone: +44 (0)131 311 6723 or by email: shop@fettes.com.
During term time, the shop is open from 8am to 3pm (closed 12-12.30pm) and from 9.30am to 12.30pm on Saturdays. Students and parents/ guardians can purchase items from the shop and charge them to the school bill, the only exception being tuck. At the end of each term parents/ guardians will receive a detailed invoice with the main school bill.
Heads of Departments make all arrangements for ordering textbooks.
THE THRIFT SHOP
Situated within the main Fettes College shop, the Thrift Shop offers good quality second-hand items of uniform and accessories. The proceeds of any sales of second-hand items handed in to the Thrift Shop are available on a broadly pro-rata basis to individual Boarding Houses to fund mini projects identified by the students.
SECURITY
Security: security@fettes.com
All students are issued with a security fob for access to the main buildings around the campus. It is essential that fobs are carried at all times. If intruders are detected in or around the House or School, do NOT confront them but rather report the matter immediately to a member of staff or call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
College Reception: +44(0)131 332 2281 (reception@fettes.com)
Medical Centre: +44(0)131 332 2247 (medicalcentre@fettes.com)
The following members of the Administration staff are able to help with various matters and their offices are on the first floor by the back door of Chapel.
Mrs Worlledge, the Head’s PA, can help with appointments to see the Head, letters concerning visas and opening bank accounts and School reports. Her email address is: head@fettes.com.
Mrs Crawford, PA to the Senior Deputy Head and Deputy Heads, can help with appointments to see the Senior Deputy Head, Deputy Head (Academic) and the Deputy Head (Pastoral). Her email address is: AL.Crawford@fettes.com.
Mrs Taylor, School Secretary, can help with the daily absence list, lost and found, School mailings and forms and special stationery requests. Her email address is: schooloffice@fettes.com.
Mrs Atkins, the Director of External Relations, oversees our marketing, admissions, public relations and partnerships. She is always happy to receive feedback and suggestions. Her email address is DC.Atkins@fettes.com The Admissions Team is led by Mrs Gordon. This team support all prospective families as they discover and enter Fettes: admissions@fettes.com
THE FETTES APP
The Fettes app has been created to help increase parental involvement in the school. It will enable you to access all school information in one place including news, calendar, fixtures and SchoolPost.
Once the app is downloaded, here are five tips to get started:
You can access it here
1. When you open the app, you will be presented with options, please select the relevant ones for you and then scroll down and press ‘Save’. You can go back and change this at any time through the ‘Settings’ function.
2. Once you have saved your settings, the app will show our latest news, brought to you from all our social media platforms, there is no need for you to be on social media to see these updates.
3. The menu at the top left of the screen gives you access to ‘Useful Links’. This is where you will find the links to the school calendar, term dates, school shop, campus map etc.
4. A link to SchoolPost can be found within ‘Useful links’ and is also available at the foot of the main news page.
5. When viewing the calendar you will see five magenta boxes at the top of the screen, these will allow you to filter your view. Once you have selected what you would like to view, tap the bottom half of your screen and the filter will be applied.
Map of the Campus
