Bishopsgate Parent Handbook

An independent co-educational school for 3 - 13 year olds

WELCOME

I am thrilled to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all the families joining us this term as we embark on a new academic year at Bishopsgate. It is with immense joy that I lead the charge as Headmaster, leading one of the finest prep schools in Surrey and feel incredibly privileged to play a part in shaping the formative years of your child, anticipating their remarkable growth and development throughout their time here.

As your child begins the next phase of their educational journey this academic year, rest assured that our dedicated team will be by their side, offering unwavering support every step of the way. Within our vibrant community, characterised by a strong sense of camaraderie and familial bonds, your child will benefit from the guidance and care of our exceptional teachers, tutors, activity leaders and support staff, among others.

At Bishopsgate, our commitment goes beyond providing the highest quality of education. We strive to empower your child to flourish and spread their wings, preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead in senior school and beyond. We firmly believe that your child will seize the countless opportunities available to them here, embracing each one with enthusiasm, and all whilst ensuring they grow from setbacks along the way. Throughout their time with us, you will witness the growth and formation of their character, as they become confident, compassionate and joyous individuals with a deep curiosity for the world and its people.

I do hope this handbook is a helpful reference for you throughout this year and I would like to extend my best wishes for an exciting academic year ahead. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you and be a part of this exciting stage in your child’s journey.

Peter Thacker MEd BA (Hons) PGCE FRGS Headmaster

STATEMENT of Aims and Values

Bishopsgate endeavours to lay the foundations for the pupils’ future success and prepares them for the senior school of their choice and life beyond. Children have one opportunity for the education that will form the basis of their lives and at the same time one childhood. The aim is to keep a happy balance between the two. All children have a talent and the School provides a wide and stimulating range of opportunities to develop it.

VISION

• To be a thriving and successful 21st century school for our pupils.

PURPOSE

• To provide the highest standard of education, delivering academic rigour in an enriched environment, empowering each child to fulfil their potential.

STRATEGY

• Outstanding teaching and learning, inspiring lifelong learners and developing critical and creative thinking, that permeates every area of Bishopsgate life.

• Placing communication at the heart of all that we do.

• A focus on employer brand, attracting, recruiting and retaining the highest calibre staff.

• A centre of excellence for wellbeing, fostering intrinsic motivation in every child, and shaping character through adventure and extraordinary experiences.

• To ensure the estate, as a place of learning with biodiversity at its heart, keeps evolving and inspiring our children, with all areas of school facilities up to a common standard that reflect the outstanding quality of our education.

• Building enduring relationships with our communities, to create a caring and meaningful social and environmental legacy with a powerful sense of responsibility to others.

The following information is available on the school website and for you to consult in school:

• Safeguarding

• Behaviour Management, including rewards and sanctions

• Anti-bullying

• Compaints Procedure

• Educational Visits

• First Aid

• Health & Safety

• Equal Opportunities

The following information can be requeste at any time:

• Curriculum Policy.

• Admissions, attendance and registration procedures.

• Educational and welfare provision for pupils with EHC plans.

• Educational and welfare provision for pupils for whom English is an additional language.

• The School’s academic performance during the preceding school year.

• The number of complaints registered under the formal procedure during the preceding school year.

• A copy of the report of any inspections of the school.

SAFEGUARDING

Bishopsgate is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and believes that all pupils, regardless of age, special needs or disability, racial/cultural heritage, religious belief or sexual orientation, have the right to be protected from all types of harm and abuse. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy can be viewed on the school website. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is Mrs Beth Snowden-Brown.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

We pride ourselves on a very positive relationship with our parents. If we do not achieve this, we would very much like to know so we can have the opportunity to put things right with an aim to resolve any concern as quickly as possible. Your child’s Class Teacher/Tutor is always your first point of contact for any problem you may have. If the problem is urgent please leave a message at the School Office. This will be brought to the attention of an appropriate member of staff, who will endeavour to make contact with you that same day, whenever possible, and certainly within 24 hours.

GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP

Our Governing Board is responsible for the wellbeing of the School as a whole, taking or endorsing strategic and financial decisions, monitoring the School’s finances, and appointing the Headmaster. Bishopsgate Governors come from a wide range of backgrounds, including business, education and the professions and all are deeply committed to the School’s continuing success. The Governors are the trustees of the School and thus hold the ultimate responsibility for the School. The Headmaster is responsible for the executive decisions taken in the School. The Governors meet each term as a full body, with subcommittees meeting at other times. The Chair of Governors is Mr Christiian Marriott.

STAFF

Bishopsgate proudly employs a large and passionate team of staff who wholeheartedly devote themselves to nurturing and educating the boys and girls entrusted to their care.

BURSARY

The Bursar, Mr Charles Carver, is a senior member of the School’s Leadership Team. The Bursary functions divide themselves between financial and estate matters and the Bursar is the first port of call for both these issues. He can be contacted at bursar@bishopsgatesch.uk

SCHOOL FEES

Payment of fees for the Michaelmas Term are due on or before the first day of term in September and you will receive your first bill in July. Fee bills for the next term are sent out at the end of the previous term to enable payment by the due date, on or before the first day of term. It is important to note that a full term’s notice is required if your intention is for your son or daughter to leave at any time, or change their status. Questions concerning fee bills should be addressed to the Bursar. Fees can be paid by bank transfer or cheque.

We warmly encourage parents to follow our established communication pathway when they have an enquiry. This approach ensures that any concerns are addressed efficiently and by the most appropriate person. Starting with your child’s Form Teacher or Form Tutor or the relevant academic staff member often leads to quicker resolutions. If further assistance is needed, you can pursue your enquiry following the steps in the communication flowchart. This structured process helps maintain effective communication and ensures that every enquiry is given the attention it deserves.

LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE

Unfortunately, the School cannot be held responsible for any possessions, including money or valuables, that are mislaid, lost or stolen; however the School can provide details of a number of insurance policies – health insurance, personal accident, school fees protection and personal possessions cover. Details are sent out with the bursarial notes for new pupils and copies can be obtained by contacting the Bursar. September

•

• Assessment and examinations

• Future Schools

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Pupil Wellbeing lead

• Parent Reps/ BSocial

• Coordination of community liaison

FORM TEACHERS AND HEADS OF DEPARTMENT

COMMUNICATION

TERM DATES

Term dates can be found on our website, forecasting one academic year ahead. Much consideration is given to when these dates fall, as we liaise with senior schools, external examinations, etc. A link to term dates also appears in our weekly newsletter, ‘The Nutshell’.

COMMUNICATION

In the first instance, please email your child’s Form Tutor. They will be able to assist you or direct you to the most suitable person for your query. All staff can be reached using their school email address. These addresses typically consist of the teacher’s first initial followed by their surname, ending with @bishopsgatesch.uk. For example, jbond@bishopsgatesch. uk. Please bear in mind that teachers may have limited access to their email during the day due to teaching commitments. A comprehensive staff directory is available on the School website.

There are several avenues for obtaining information about your child. If you have any queries or concerns regarding your child’s academic progress, your first point of contact should be your child’s Form Tutor. This typically ensures swift and effective resolution of any issues. Form Tutors serve as your primary communication channel for specific queries about your child, encompassing both their wellbeing and academic achievements. They will also address any academic concerns by liaising with your child’s subject teachers as needed. You will have the opportunity to meet your child’s tutor at a welcome event early in the academic year and there will be various other occasions, such as Parents’ meetings, to meet them (along with subject teachers) throughout the year.

Each subject area is overseen by a Head of Department, who convene regularly to discuss academic matters and pupils’ progress. Form Teachers will allocate time early in the academic year for you to visit their Form Room informally, providing you with an insight into your child’s school life beyond drop-off. For more extensive discussions, appointments can be arranged with your child’s Class Teacher Heads of School (Pre Prep, Lower Prep, Middle Prep, or Upper Prep), Assistant Head (Wellbeing), or Deputy Head, at mutually convenient times. These appointments can be scheduled by emailing them directly or through the School Office. For urgent matters throughout the day, please

call the School Office at 01784 432109. Additionally, kindly ensure that the School Office is informed of any changes in your contact details.

‘THE NUTSHELL’ WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Bishopsgate produces an email newsletter once a week called ‘The Nutshell’, which includes school notices and dates for your diary. This will be emailed to you on a Friday afternoon.

EMAIL AND TEXT MESSAGES

Upon your child’s arrival at Bishopsgate, important information may be sent to you via email or text. These communication channels are automatically set up through Operoo However, if you are not receiving communications, please reach out to the School Office.

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM

SIMS is Bishopsgate’s school Management Information System.

CALENDAR

The calendar is published termly on the School website If amendments are made, then these are announced in our weekly newsletter , 'The Nutshell'.

SOCS -THE BISHOPSGATE SPORTS WEBPAGE

Our SOCS platform (https://sport.bishopsgateschool.com) contains information about team lists, match locations, fixtures and results. Team lists are published the evening prior to match day. A link to SOCS also appears in our weekly newsletter, 'The Nutshell.' Please see the 'Sports' section of this handbook for further details.

WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA

The Bishopsgate website is regularly updated with news articles about life at Bishopsgate. Photos of events are included within these articles and some stories are posted on Instagram bishopsgateschool, X @BishopsgateSch and Facebook.

PARENT MICROSITE - B*INFORMED

Our Parent Microsite is regularly updated with everyday information regarding your child's time at school.

WHATSAPP

We recognise that WhatsApp can be a convenient way for you to connect and share information. While it is not an official channel of Bishopsgate, we understand its usefulness for communication between parents. We kindly request that all messages remain positive, respectful, and supportive, using this platform to share helpful information and foster a sense of camaraderie. Please treat others with kindness and empathy as Bishopsgate prides itself on its positive atmosphere and supportive community. Remember that behind every message is a fellow parent or staff member. If you have concerns about the School, please address these constructively directly with the appropriate member of staff.

ANNUAL INFORMATION EVENINGS

Annual information evenings for specific year groups are important events in the School calendar and parents are warmly encouraged to attend. They are normally held in the first full teaching week of the Michaelmas Term and offer an opportunity to meet the staff and get a feel for your child’s daily routine. Staff contact details, class timetables and topics of study for the year ahead will also be available at these events.

PARENTS’ EVENINGS

Parents’ Evenings are an opportunity for you to have a brief (approximately 5 to 10 minutes) meeting with each of your child’s subject teachers to discuss progress and targets. If issues need to be discussed at greater length, it is normal for the relevant teacher and parents to arrange to meet at a mutually convenient time; something which may occur at any point in the school year. The schedule for Parents’ Evenings is outlined under the Academia section of this handbook.

SCHOOL LEARNING PLATFORMS

Please refer to the Academia section of this handbook.

SCHOOL REPORTS

These are delivered through SIMS, our Bishopsgate Management Information System.

PARENTAL CONSENT

Prior to your child joining Bishiopsgate School we will request your consent for the following:

• Outings

• Use of image

• Data Protection

• Provision of care

• Pupil acceptable use of IT

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

If you wish to take your child out of school for any reason, permission must be sought in advance. For medical appointments and other short duration absences, please submit an Application for Leave of Absence through Operoo, ensuring sufficient notice is given. If the nature of the absence is not routine, any decision will be deferred to the Headmaster. Absences during the term for social reasons are not normally approved due to the impact this can have on the child and class routine.

DAILY ROUTINE

TERM DATES

Please refer to our website for School Term dates

THE FIRST DAY OF THE SCHOOL YEAR

New children to the school are invited to arrive at 8.20am for their first day. If our new families have any queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Admissions Manager (admissions@bishopsgatesch.uk). Please refer to our Buddy System detailed under the Pastoral Care section.

ARRIVING AT SCHOOL

Please take a moment to refer to the drop-off locations map overleaf to familiarise yourself with where you can drop off your child in the morning. Pupils can be dropped off at any time between 8.00 - 8.20am. Please ensure your child is ready with their belongings prior to arriving at the drop-off area. This will minimise the need for parents to exit their cars and allow a smooth flow of traffic. Pupils are supervised in the Windsor Building or on the Astro Pitch with the exception of Nursery and Reception pupils who should head directly to their classrooms.

ARRIVING BEFORE SCHOOL HOURS

For early arrivals, the Windsor Building is open between 7.45am and 8.00am for Early Morning Club. We cannot take responsibility for children before these times unless they are attending a specific activity under staff supervision.

LATE ARRIVALS

Children who arrive late to school must report to the School Office to sign in. This ensures we keep our registers up to date at all times.

EARLY DEPARTURE

If your child has permission to depart early, they must sign out with the School Office. Parents are asked to collect their children from the School Office.

LATE COLLECTION

If you are running slightly late for the normal collection time please inform the School Office so we are aware and can make suitable arrangements for your child. Any child not collected at the end of the day will be taken to After School Club or Prep. Should your child not then be collected from the Music School gate or from Lower School by 5.45pm they will be taken to the School Office. The Office will ring you to

confirm the collection timeframe. If your child is taking part in a scheduled activity pick up should be directly from the staff member or instructor in charge of the particular activity.

COLLECTION LOCATIONS

At the end of the School day, your child can be collected from the following locations:

Nursery Nursery Garden

Reception - Year 2 Classroom outside entrance

Year 3 - Year 6 Music School Gate

Years 7 to 8 Ridgemead Road

To ensure your child’s safety we do not allow collection from any other location on the school site. The only exception to this is following an organised after-school teacher-led activity where pupils can be collected directly from the teacher in charge. If you child is being collected during the School day, please collect your child from the School Office. At whatever time of day, once pupils have been collected they become their parents’ or guardians’ responsibility.

COLLECTION TIMES AT END OF TERM

Collection times at the end of each term can vary to reduce vehicle traffic on the school site during these busy times. These timings are published in the School Calendar and communicated to parents through 'The Nutshell', our weekly electronic newsletter. Staggered departure collections normally follow these timings, where older siblings can also be collected at the same time as your youngest sibling:

Nursery to Year 2 12.00 - 12.15pm

Years 3 to 4 12.15 - 12.30pm

Years 5 to 6 12.30 - 12.45pm

Years 7 to 8 12.45 - 1.00pm

NURSERY DAILY ROUTINE

8.15am Nursery opens In The Moment

8.20am Registration Carpet time Inspiration In The Moment

.......................................................................................................................................

9.30am Tidy up Snack Story

9.55am Playtime (first few weeks in the Nursery Playground)

.......................................................................................................................................

10.15am Teacher led session In The Moment

....................................................................................................................................... 11.35am Hot

12 13

Lunchtime playtime

Lessons 2.15pm Lessons ....................................................................................................................................... 3.10pm Snack & Story ....................................................................................................................................... 3.30pm Reception, Years 1 and 2 departure After-School activities commence

Child club collection (from club location) 5.30pm Child club collection (from club location)

5.30pm Collection (for those attending prep/clubs)

PARKING GUIDELINES

Parking is very limited on the School estate. We are grateful to all for showing an appreciation for the needs of others when parking. Parents are required to park their vehicles only within designated parking spaces, adhering to the marked white lines in the parking lot. Double-parking is strictly prohibited at all times to ensure the safety and convenience of all members of the school community. Kindly refrain from blocking entrances, fire lanes, or obstructing traffic flow when parking or waiting in the designated areas. Please maintain a respectful and considerate demeanour towards fellow parents, staff and pedestrians while on school grounds. The minibus car park is located to the left of the main entrance and is not accessible for visitors’ parking. All traffic within the School grounds should keep at 5mph or below.

ENGINE IDLING

Engines should be turned off when waiting in your vehicle: you will understand that improving the air quality for our children takes priority over air conditioning or heating your vehicles. Please don’t be surprised if a member of staff, or pupil, reminds you of this!

CAR SHARING

The School encourages parents to consider the environment and make arrangements to car share where possible.

REPORTING A PARKING CONCERN

As a community, we uphold the safety and wellbeing of all our children as our utmost priority. Parents found in violation of our parking guidance will be directly contacted by the Bursar to address these matters. You are able to report any parking or traffic concerns through our weekly newsletter, 'The Nutshell'.

PARKING GUIDELINES

WELLBEING

Pastoral Care

It is with great excitement and privilege that I introduce myself as the Assistant Head (Wellbeing). Having begun my career in the Arts before transitioning to education, I bring a diverse background to my role. My journey has taken me through esteemed Prep schools in Surrey and challenging state secondary settings, shaping my deep appreciation for education in all its forms. My core passion lies in instilling a sense of self-worth and empowerment in children. I am dedicated to creating an environment where every child recognises their inherent value and potential impact on the world. My ethos revolves around kindness, sustainability, and prioritising the happiness and wellbeing of our students. As a mother of three unique children, I have first-hand experience

of the value of the educational offering at Bishopsgate. Here, every student is celebrated for their individual qualities and abilities.

I invite each of you to engage with me, whether you have questions, concerns, or innovative ideas regarding your child’s journey or the overall wellbeing at Bishopsgate. Here’s to a year filled with opportunities for fun, growth, and, above all, happiness.

Mrs Beth Snowden-Brown Assistant Head (Wellbeing)

DAY TO DAY CARE

All pupils are under the care of a Form Teacher or Tutor; their day-to-day mentor and guide, who is responsible for looking after them throughout the academic year. In support of each Tutor is a dedicated matron and academic staff.

Form Teachers/Tutors are in their classrooms from 8.15am each morning to welcome your child, should you wish to briefly communicate anything before formal registration begins at 8.20am. Form Teachers/Tutors have more time at the end of the school day when pupils have been released. Please email to make an appointment if necessary and staff will always be pleased to meet with you.

CLASS GROUPS

Class groups are carefully worked out and the teachers make sure there is a balance of ages, abilities, personalities, friendships and genders. The classes are mixed up each year to ensure that all children get to know each other by the end of their time in the Pre Prep. For these reasons, we do not take parental requests for classes.

HOUSE SYSTEM

Our house system fosters a sense of community and healthy competition, as pupils are assigned to different houses for activities and events. The School has four houses: Magellan, Livingstone, Shackleton and Frobisher. Upon arrival into Reception, children are assigned to one of our Houses. There are several popular annual House-related events and competitions. Siblings are put into the same House. House

WELLBEING

Pastoral Care

points can be earned for good work or good behaviour and these are added to both house and individual totals. House meetings take place fortnightly.

ASSEMBLIES

Assemblies form a vital part of the spiritual, moral, social and cultural education that the School provides and they play an important role in reinforcing the ethos and standards of the School. The Headmaster’s assembly takes place on a Friday each week where the whole School community is invited to attend. Monday assembly takes place at the beginning of the week for pupils and staff only.

REWARDS

A Headmaster’s Commendation is awarded for outstanding progress or an outstanding piece of work that goes above and beyond other awards. All nominations for a Headmaster’s Commendation go through the Form Teacher/ Tutor.

We recognise that attainment is different for every child.

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT

Children’s behaviour is managed effectively and in a manner appropriate for their stage of development and individual needs. The School has a Behaviour Policy which is adhered to by all staff.

We ask that boys and girls do not buy, swap or sell any items at school. This is to avoid the unfairness of making a mistake concerning the value of any property.

COMMUNICATING ‘EXPECTATIONS’

Please refer to the Academia section for further information.

MONEY

Our pupils do not need money at school – it is very easy to lose and there is no way of proving to whom it belongs. If boys and girls are delivering money to school, it must be in an envelope and taken to the School Office or given to the Form Teacher when they arrive at school. Please refer to our Behaviour Policy for further details. On rare occasions, children may be invited to bring in money for specific school trips or charitable events. On these occasions, money will need to be kept in a named purse or wallet.

Bishopsgate has a School Matron on duty during the day and pupils are encouraged to visit the surgery if they are not feeling well. Families are encouraged to meet with Matron for any specific health needs that you as a family would like to bring to the attention of the School.

REPORTING ILLNESS

If your child is ill, please contact Matron or the School Office. Please use Operoo, using the Pupil Illness Notification to inform of absences. If your child has sickness and/or diarrhoea, please do not bring him or her in for at least 48 hours after the last epidoes of vomiting or diarrhoea. If your child has a temperature over 37.5 centigrade, they must remain off school for 24 hours. We must be notified if your child has an infectious disease.

INFECTION & DISEASE CONTROL

In cases of contagious diseases, ie. impetigo or conjunctivitis, your child should not be at school until they have started prescribed antibiotics and have sought guidance from the School Matron. If a child has been exposed to any infection at any time within three weeks before the date appointed for joining the School, immediate notice of the facts must be sent to the School Matron, and the child must not be sent to school until the Headmaster’s permission has been obtained. If infectious illness breaks out in the child’s home within three weeks of joining the school, the Headmaster must be notified. In the event of an outbreak of Diphtheria or Poliomyelitis, the school reserves the right to send home immediately any child who has not been vaccinated or immunised against these diseases. This also applies to children who have not had their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination.

A note will be sent home whenever a case of head lice is discovered in your child’s class. Please remain vigilant about checking your child’s hair.

MEDICAL AND DENTAL APPOINTMENTS

We understand that children may need to attend medical appointments during the school day. To notify us of your child’s absence for part of a day, please complete the “Appointment During the School Day Notification” Operoo form available in the Form Library. This form will automatically notify the teaching staff and your child’s Form Tutor. If you encounter any difficulties accessing Operoo, please contact the School Office for assistance. Operoo can be accessed from our

website (via the top right hamburger menu, under ‘Portal’ > ‘Parents’) or conveniently from 'The Nutshell'.

ACCIDENT REPORTING

All bumps to the head, no matter how minor, are recorded and parents will be contacted. Depending upon the severity of the bump, relevant information may also be provided on what to look out for. Parents will always be contacted in cases of more serious accidents or injuries.

DEFIBRILLATORS

Two defibrillators are located on the School site. One outside the Music Department and the other outside Winston Hall (the Sports Centre).

MEDICINES

All medicines brought into school must be clearly labelled with a pharmacy label detailing the contents and the name of the child. A medicine administration form must be filled out via Operoo by the parent/carer stating medicine, times to be administered and dosage. Below are a few guidelines regarding prescription medicines

• Short-term prescription requirements should only be brought to school if it is detrimental to the child’s health not to have the medicine during the school day.

• The school will not administer medicines that have not been prescribed by a doctor, dentist, nurse prescriber or pharmacist prescriber, other than approved over the counter (OTC) medications such as Calpol or Piriton.

• The School will not accept medicines that have been taken out of the container as originally dispensed, nor make changes to prescribed dosages.

• Instructions for administration must be supplied.

• It is against school policy for pupils to keep any medication on them, apart from asthma inhalers and Epipens, unless they have undergone a medication risk assessment carried out by the medical staff in order to self-medicate.

If your child has any allergies or serious illnesses, please state this clearly in the Pupil Consent Form (which will be sent to you before the start of the school year) and bring it to the attention of the class teacher. Those children with asthma or who carry an EpiPen, should have a spare inhaler or EpiPen in school. Any new health concerns should be reported to the School Matron.

WELLBEING Medical Care

RECOMMENDED ROUTINE

IMMUNISATION

The school should be informed of any immunisation carried out at home during a child’s school career to ensure we maintain a full and accurate record.

NUT ALLERGIES

We ask for your help in providing a safe environment for our pupils who have a severe peanut or nut allergy. Reactions to nuts, especially peanuts, are generally more severe than reactions to other foods and these can be triggered through skin contact or even by inhalation of dust particles. This is rarely the case for other common food allergies as the smallest amount required to trigger a reaction is one hundred times smaller for nuts than for other common food allergens. Some of our younger pupils may not be mature enough to be responsible for managing their condition by avoiding allergens and so, by limiting their availability at school, we aim to minimise the risk of allergy-related incidents. The School’s policy of strict avoidance of peanut or nut products is the only way to prevent a life-threating allergic reaction. To reduce the risk of exposure, please do not send in any peanut or nut-containing products, including snacks, for your child or other children to eat anywhere on the school premises at any time. Any snacks outside of this guidance should only be consumed off school premises.

SUNCREAM, SUNHATS AND WATER

During hot weather, we recommend that you apply suncream to your child each morning so they are protected when they are outside for break times and Games lessons. Pupils should also bring sunhats to wear on sunny days and are encouraged to bring in their own water bottle which should be clearly labelled. There are also drinking fountains around the school.

LUNCH & SNACKS

At Bishopsgate, all children enjoy a cooked lunch. There is plenty of choice and staff ensure that every child eats a balanced meal. If your child requires a special diet please contact catering@bishopsgatesch.uk and copy in matron@ bishopsgatesch.uk Information about menus is on the website and published in ‘The Nutshell’, our weekly electronic newsletter.

During morning and afternoon breaktimes the children are supplied with fruit or a substantial snack, for example a sausage roll or croissant. Those who are staying for a club

after school are permitted to bring in a snack from home. We ask that this is healthy (no sweets or chocolate) and in line with our commitment to the planet, where possible, we ask children to bring this into school in a named reusable container. Please note, we are a nut free school.

USE OF TECHNOLOGY

OVERVIEW

As part of the School’s Digital Learning programme, we offer pupils supervised access to the internet. Before being allowed to use the internet, all pupils must obtain parental permission and both they (at school) and you (through the Pupil Consent Form sent to you before your child’s first day) must sign to accept the School regulations on this matter.

Access to the internet enables pupils to explore thousands of libraries, databases and bulletin boards, while exchanging messages with other internet users across the world.

Families should be warned that some material accessible via the internet might contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive to some people. The Bishopsgate network hardware references a database that effectively filters objectionable internet material. The filtering we apply is no guarantee that an entirely safe environment will be available. Since the web changes so dynamically each day it is simply not possible for any system based on exclusion to be 100% effective with today’s technology.

Whilst our aim for internet use is to further educational goals and objectives, pupils may find ways to access other materials as well. We believe that the benefits to pupils from access to the internet, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed any disadvantages. But ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. To that end, the School supports and respects each family’s right to decide whether or not to apply for access.

During school, teachers will guide pupils toward appropriate materials. Outside of school, families bear the same responsibility for such guidance as they exercise with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio and other potentially offensive media. The School does not permit internet enabled mobile devices to be brought in.

ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORMS

These are some of the online learning platforms that your child will be using during their time at Bishopsgate:

GOOGLE CLASSROOM

Google Classroom helps your child engage in personalised learning experiences that are managed by teachers. It also helps us encourage your child in organisation and time management skills with interactive to do lists for their prep (homework), automatic due dates, and industry leading productivity tools.

ANTON

ANTON is a cross-curricular learning app, covering key subjects across the National Curriculum, including English, Maths, Science, Modern Foreign Languages, Geography, Music and PSHE.

TIMES TABLES ROCK STARS

TT Rock Stars is a maths programme that takes all the worry out of learning times tables and has a proven track record of boosting children’s fluency and recall in multiplication and division.

ATOM LEARNING

Atom learning is introduced in Years 3 to 6 and is used to help children prepare for their senior school pre-tests. Children will develop Maths, English, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning skills through this website.

We recognise the importance of the parent partnership and have a strong focus on opportunities to invite parents into our school community in a variety of ways throughout the academic year. Below is an example of some of the events organised for you to join us and be part of your child’s journey.

MICHAELMAS TERM

• Meet the Teacher. A chance to touch base with your child’s Form Teacher/Form Tutor after their first few days.

• BSocial Back to School BBQ. Meet other parents whilst your children have fun with their friends.

• Form Tutor Catch Up. An informal meeting with your child’s Form Tutor to see how they have settled in to their new year group.

• Academic Parents’ Evening. Meet with your child’s subject teachers to discuss their progress.

• Remembrance Service. Join us in paying our respects at this poignant service.

• BSocial Fireworks Night. Dig out your wellies and brave the cold to enjoy our annual fireworks spectacular!

• Carol Concert. Join the Bishopsgate community to celebrate the festive season.

• BSocial Pantomime Trip. Join our families as they enjoy the latest panto in Windsor!

• Open Classroom. We invite parents to participate in our Open Classroom sessions, where you can visit your child’s classroom and engage in discussions about their work together.

LENT TERM

• Academic Parents’ Evening. Meet with your child’s subject teachers to discuss their progress.

• Celebration of Sport. Come and celebrate children’s sporting success each term.

SUMMER TERM

• BSocial Quiz Night. Join us for our annual Quiz Night and put your knowledge to the test! It’s a chance to flex those brain muscles, while enjoying some friendly competition and laughter.

• Grandparents’ Tea. A special occasion where extended family members are invited to delight in a school tour led by their grandchildren, followed by a delightful high tea experience.

• Celebration of Sport. Come and celebrate children’s sporting success each term.

• Sports Day. This event is held in late June and finishes at approximately 5.00pm.

• Speech Day which is held at the very end of the Summer Term.

EVERY TERM

• Open Classroom. We invite parents to participate in our Open Classroom sessions, where you can visit your child’s classroom and engage in discussions about their work together.

• Celebration of Sport. Come and celebrate children’s sporting success each term.

• Whole School Assembly. Join us each Friday morning for our whole school assembly in Vickers Hall.

• Lino Art Workshop. Join our Art Department for a fun workshop for parents and staff.

• Data Report. In addition to Parents’ Evening, you will receive a short data report for your child.

• Class Assemblies. Come and watch your child present to the whole school.

BSOCIAL

At Bishopsgate we actively encourage parental involvement in school life. The Bishopsgate Parent Teacher Association (BSocial) is a social and fundraising group that helps bring together the school community. Each year, BSocial is made up of parents and staff, organising events such as the Fireworks night, Back to School BBQ and the end of year Summer Party, to raise money for school projects and for their affiliated charity.

Each year group is represented on the committee, with a parent volunteer acting as a conduit for information between the parents and the school. The Year Group Representatives also play a key role in welcoming new families to the Bishopsgate community and helping them to settle in.

BSocial is involved in many events across the School calendar and rely on a small army of generous volunteers. All offers of help are very gratefully received, so if you can spare even a small amount of time and would like to be involved please email the BSocial Chair.

PARENTS

A to Z

With so much going on in our busy community, prepare to embark on a thrilling journey through the alphabet, uncovering all the fabulous facets of Bishopsgate life!

A IS FOR ArtsFest

Our annual ArtsFest, a mind-blowing, festival-filled extravaganza of music, drama, dance and art!

B IS FOR BIODIVERSITY

We are on a journey towards a core focus on biodiversity on the Bishopsgate estate, working in partnership with the Crown Estate and Windsor Great Park. Only by understanding the world in which we find ourselves and developing the skills we need to take action, will we be able to learn how to live more sustainably.

C IS FOR CREATIVITY

Our children are the epitome of creativity and artistic excellence, the transformative power of a Bishopsgate progressive skills-based education that equips children with the ability to ignite passion, to unleash creativity, to unite others and to envision the future.

D IS FOR DENS

Our very own ‘Secret Garden’ offers a place where children can climb trees like fearless explorers, tumble off them like acrobats in training and build dens that rival the coolest hideouts you’ve ever seen. It’s a haven for adventure, imagination and pure childhood joy!

E IS FOR EXAM PREPARATION

We provide comprehensive support and resources to prepare pupils for exams, helping them build confidence and achieve their best.

F IS FOR FOOD

We offer nutritious and balanced meals to promote healthy eating habits among our pupils, ensuring they have the energy they need for the school day. Our caterer works exclusively with independent schools to create a premium, fresh and thoughtful food service, uniquely tailored to meet the needs of our pupils.

G IS FOR GRADING

SYSTEM

Our grading system provides feedback on your child’s progress

and helps you understand their academic performance across various subjects.

H IS FOR HOUSE COMPETITIONS

Our house system fosters a sense of community and healthy competition, as pupils are assigned to different houses for activities and events. The School has four houses: Magellan, Livingstone, Shackleton and Frobisher.

I IS FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)

As a Google School, we integrate technology into our curriculum, equipping pupils with essential IT skills and preparing them for the digital age.

J IS FOR JOINT COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS

Pupils engage in collaborative projects with their peers, promoting teamwork, creativity and critical thinking. The house system is one such example where children enjoy a host of competitions as they work together across all age ranges.

K IS FOR KEY PERSONNEL

Our dedicated staff, including teachers and support staff, are committed to providing the best educational experience for your child. Please see our Staff List for full details.

L IS FOR LIBRARY

Our well-stocked library, led by an experienced full-time librarian, offers a wide range of resources, fostering a love for reading and supporting pupils in their academic pursuits. A game of chess in the library is equally popular on a rainy day!

M IS FOR MEDICAL CARE

We prioritise the health and safety of our pupils, with fully trained nurses available to provide medical care and first aid when needed.

N IS FOR NUTRITION AND WELLNESS INITIATIVES

We promote healthy lifestyles through various initiatives, educating pupils about nutrition, physical activity and overall wellness.

O IS FOR OUTDOOR LEARNING

Bishopsgate recognises the importance of outdoor education and provides timetabled opportunities each week for pupils

to learn and explore in our stunning outdoor setting. Pupils are able to regularly access Windsor Great Park too, where we celebrate a close partnership.

P IS FOR PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION

We celebrate and maintain open and frequent communication with parents, keeping them informed about their child’s progress, events and important updates.

Q IS FOR QUIZ NIGHT

Look out for our fun and educational BSocial quiz nights, offering an opportunity for parents to come together and showcase their knowledge, or perhaps not!

R IS FOR RESIDENTIALS

Our children, from Years 3 to 8, break free from the chains of technology every year, as they embark on epic adventures that make them feel like fearless explorers! Like mini Indiana Joneses, they hike, climb and camp their way to newfound independence.

S IS FOR SINGING

Every week, we celebrate the joyful and holistic activity of singing to enhance emotional wellbeing, provide an outlet for self-expression, boost confidence and self-esteem and provide yet another avenue for cultural and artistic exploration for our children.

T IS FOR TIMETABLE

Our well-planned timetable ensures a balanced schedule for pupils, incorporating a variety of subjects and activities throughout the day.

U IS FOR UNIFORM

We have a school uniform policy that fosters a sense of unity and pride among our pupils, promoting a focused and inclusive learning environment. Please do visit the page relating to this on our website.

V IS FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

We encourage parents to get involved in our very special school community through various volunteer opportunities, notably through BSocial, our parent teacher association.

W IS FOR WORKSHOPS

We organise workshops on a range of topics to enhance pupils’ skills, knowledge and personal development beyond the standard curriculum. Occasionally, these workshops extend to our parents too!

X IS FOR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

We offer an extensive range of extra curricular activities to cater to pupils’ interests, providing opportunities for them to explore new passions. Do look out for publication of activities before the beginning of each term.

Y IS FOR YEAR-END CELEBRATIONS

We celebrate the achievements and growth of our pupils with special year-end celebrations, recognising their hard work and dedication, most notably through Sports Assembly, ArtsFest, Final Assembly and, of course, Speech Day. Our Year 8 pupils enjoy the highlight of their time at Bishopsgate during this time too – the Bishopsgate Leavers’ Programme.

Z IS FOR ZERO WASTE INITIATIVES

Bishopsgage is committed to environmental sustainability and implements initiatives to minimise waste, promoting ecoconsciousness among pupils and the community.

ACADEMIA

CURRICULUM

We aim to provide pupils with a broad, balanced curriculum which is relevant to their experience and builds on their previous knowledge in order to ensure continuity and progression, so that all pupils have the opportunity to learn and make progress.

LEARNING SKILLS

At Bishopsgate, we are proud to offer a curriculum that is both engaging and academically challenging, with the aim of instilling a love of learning in our children. The Bishopsgate child is an effective, aspirational and self-motivated learner. We encourage children to ask questions and think critically. An integral part of this are the Learning Skills. The Pre-Senior Baccalaureate helps support our approach, promoting and developing key aptitudes in our children such as independence, collaboration, leadership and resilience. We actively encourage all of our children to find out more by questioning the ‘why and what if?’ This creates a belief that there is never a limit to what can be learned.

Pupils in Years 3 to 8 all study seven main academic subjects: four core subjects (English, Mathematics, Science and French) and three Humanities subjects (Geography, History and Philosophy & Ethics). In addition, Latin is added to the curriculum from Year 5 and Spanish from Year 7. Furthermore, every child receives timetabled lessons for Digital Learning, Art, Design & Technology, Music, Outdoor Learning and Learning for Life. Pupils from Years 3 to 8 have PE and Games on their timetable and Years 3 and 4 have a Drama lesson. In Year 5, Study skills are introduced to help prepare students for their senior school examinations.

COMMUNICATING PROGRESS

Please see overleaf for the schedule of reporting on your child’s academic progress.

MEETING STAFF

There are various formal opportunities for you to meet staff to discuss your child’s progress. Specific dates are published in the School Calendar.

YOUR CHILD’S PROGRESS, EXAMS AND ASSESSMENTS

In Nursery and Reception, we invite you to view a secure website called '2Simple' which captures evidence of your child’s learning progress, providing assessments, pictures

and videos of their classes throughout the week. Upon entry to Nursery and Reception, baseline assessments are carried out, which allow teachers to gain an understanding of where the children in their class are on both a social and academic level. This enables the teachers to plan lessons accordingly to best suit the pupil’s needs.

In Years 1 and 2, the children are assessed termly as well as on an ongoing basis and the results of these assessments inform the teachers’ planning over the following months. Pupils are expected to read on a daily basis and each week they will received English, Maths and Spelling homework.

COMMUNICATING ‘EXPECTATIONS’

We really value your input in supporting your child’s success. We aim to keep parents informed about their child’s progress outside of formal reporting. We focus on two key areas:

• ‘Beyond Expectation’ where we celebrate achievements and progress that exceed expectations for your child and encourage positive discussions at home about your child’s growth.

• ‘Falling Below Expectations’ where we address any concerns promptly through a communication with you at home. Please use this information as a prompt for constructive conversations with your child. Whilst there is no specific expectation regarding the frequency of this reporting, we consider it an additional tool for providing feedback to you as parents. Simultaneously, we encourage your child to actively engage in conversations with you at home, sharing insights about their experiences at school.

SUPPORTING PUPILS’ INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

We recognise that every child is unique and may have individual needs. We are committed to providing support to any child who requires additional assistance, both within the classroom setting through differentiated instruction and in one-to-one sessions tailored to their specific needs. When necessary, we may also enlist external specialists to aid in supporting the child’s development.

The School may already offer suitable support options, such as differentiated teaching in the classroom or subject-specific clinics during break times.

MICHAELMAS LENT

NURSERY Parent Meeting Parent Meeting

RECEPTION Settling-in Parent Meeting

Academic Parent Meeting Form Tutor report

YEAR 1 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting

Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

YEAR 2 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting

Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

YEAR 3 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting, Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

YEAR 4 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting, Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

YEAR 5 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting

Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

YEAR 6 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting

Written report

YEAR 7 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting

Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

YEAR 8 Informal Form Tutor ‘settling-in’ meeting

Written report

Academic Parent Meeting Form Tutor report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up

Formal parents’ meeting Short Data Report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up

Formal parents’ meeting Short Data Report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up

formal parents’ meeting Short Data Report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up

formal parents’ meeting Short Data Report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up Written report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up

Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up Written report

Informal Form Tutor catch-up

Formal Parents’ Evening Short Data Report

EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT

We are dedicated to promoting equality of opportunity for all children under our care, including those with learning difficulties or disabilities. Children who display signs of specific learning difficulties receive ongoing monitoring from our staff and any concerns are promptly addressed through collaboration with our Special Educational Needs Coordinator from the Learning Development Team. Together, we develop classroom strategies to best support the child’s learning needs and parents are encouraged to actively participate in this process.

LEARNING DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Our Learning Development team is equipped to assist pupils with special educational needs by providing additional support as necessary and appropriate. These support sessions may occur during regular lesson times or at other times throughout the school day and are facilitated by specialist staff members. We are committed to working closely with parents to ensure that each child receives the maximum support needed to make progress in their learning journey.

SUPPORTING MORE ABLE PUPILS

More able pupils are supported through differentiation of work and extra clubs. From Year 5, the School identifies pupils who have the potential to sit a scholarship to their chosen senior school. Selection of potential scholars is based on academic progress, examination results, opinions of those staff who have taught the pupils, the senior school they are aiming for and consultation with parents.

SCHOOL LEARNING PLATFORMS

Please see our section ‘Use of Technology’.

EDUCATIONAL VISITS

Throughout the year, a diverse set of trips and excursions are organised for all year groups, as we feel they offer a valuable extension of the classroom and benefit the pupils both academically and socially. In keeping with our curriculum, we believe that school trips, which are organised within a safe and fun environment, afford pupils the perfect opportunity to face real life experiences and in doing so, can contribute significantly to their own personal development. Please refer to our Educational Visits policy for further details.

TEACHING GROUPS & SETS

Each child is assigned to their tutor group after careful consideration by our staff. This decision takes into account various factors such as academic ability, gender, friendship groups and the compatibility between the tutor and your child’s personality.

Classes are primarily taught as mixed-ability groups across all subjects. However, exceptions apply to Spelling (Years 2 to 4), Mathematics (Years 3 to 8) and English (Years 3 to 8), where pupils are grouped according to their ability levels. In Years 7 and 8 pupils are set by ability for Science, French and Latin. This approach enables us to cater to individual strengths and weaknesses effectively.

Pupils’ progress is regularly reviewed within departments and adjustments to set placements may occur frequently. The formation of these ability-based sets is determined by departmental staff and finalised by the Deputy Head and Heads of Departments.

Various assessment methods, including end-of-topic tests, written and oral assignments, subject and learning skills, as well as school examinations, are considered when evaluating pupils’ progress.

REWARDS AND SANCTIONS

Pupils may be awarded House points for particularly good pieces of work or extra effort. Pupils cash in these points which contribute towards an inter-house trophy.

Headmaster’s Commendations are awarded for outstanding pieces of work or consistently excellent work in a given subject and are awarded in front of the whole school during assembly.

Pupils failing to complete work in the given time period or whose work falls below the expected standard may be required to complete/redo the work in a detention session.

PREP

A daily after-school Prep session is available for pupils. Whilst much work can be completed during the prep session at school, pupils will increasingly be expected to spend extra time on this work at home as they move up the school.

ACADEMIA

ASSESSMENT

Pupils’ academic ability and progress is closely monitored by teaching staff in order to ensure that each child is being appropriately challenged and fulfilling their potential. This is done in a range of ways, including the marking of class and prep work, spot tests, end-of-topic tests and internal examinations.

In addition, each pupil sits a set of cognitive ability tests towards the start and end of each school year. These age standardised benchmark assessments generate an individual pupil profile, highlighting aptitudes and revealing any inconsistencies. They indicate a pupil’s ability and aptitude for learning, rather than measuring achievement. In school, the data is used to track pupils’ progress and identify pupils either exceeding or falling behind expectations.

The figures can act as a useful gauge to how a pupil is performing in a particular subject area, relative to expectations shown by the data. This, however, must be viewed in the wider context of the Bishopsgate pupil profile and also take account of other classroom factors. The figures often form a useful basis for discussion when exploring future schools options with the Headmaster or Deputy Head.

EXAMINATIONS

School examinations are an important, but by no means the only way, of assessing your child’s progress. Please refer to the table on this page to see when they take place in the academic year.

EXTERNAL EXAMINATIONS

The vast majority of pupils leave Bishopsgate having sat 13+ Common Entrance, set by the Independent Schools Examination Board (ISEB) in June of Year 8. Potential scholars will sit scholarship examinations for their chosen senior school, usually upon invitation by the senior school.

LEARNING SKILLS

We identify how each child demonstrates competence and consistency in five key areas: Independence, Collaboration, Communication, Resilience and Leadership.

YEAR 3

YEAR 4

YEAR 5

YEAR 6

YEAR 7

YEAR 8

Second week after half term All academic subjects

The continuum shows the frequency in which your child shows these attributes:

Second week after half term

English, Maths & Science

Third week of term

English, Maths, Science & French

Third week of term All academic subjects

Second week after half term

All academic subjects

MICHAELMAS LENT SUMMER

ACADEMIA

REVISION

Prior to internal examinations pupils will be provided with a set of revision guidelines for each of their subjects by their teacher, as well as an examination timetable. These guidelines are an outline of the topics that pupils need to revise, rather than a duplication of information that is already in their exercise books and files. The revision guidelines are found on the pupils Google Classroom. Pupils will be encouraged prior to a set of examinations to develop their revision skills outsde of the classroom.

SUBJECT SKILLS

These are specific to individual subjects and identify how well your child is performing in each of the skill areas. It would be normal to see some fluctuation between attainment in areas across the year as the curriculum develops in complexity and content. The aim would be for each child to reach the ‘Expected’ phase of the scale by the end of each term.

TUTORING

In general, we do not advocate for the use of tutors since our curriculum is effectively delivered through regular classroom lessons. However, we acknowledge that some students may benefit from extra support or booster sessions outside of regular class time. This additional support may aim to enhance a student’s self-confidence in a subject as much as their actual proficiency in it.

If a parent has concerns regarding their child’s need for additional support, they should initially discuss this with the child’s Form Teacher/Tutor or the relevant subject teacher.

As the Director of Sport, I am delighted to share with you the vibrant and comprehensive Physical Education (PE) and Games programme at Bishopsgate. Our programme is designed to keep every pupil fit, active, healthy and happy, regardless of their level of sporting ability.

Our aim is for pupils to depart Bishosgate with a dedication to embracing vibrant and physically active lives, whether it be by excelling in certain sports or discovering activities that bring them joy and foster lasting health.

We firmly believe that sport plays a crucial role in fostering the holistic development of our children. Through Physical Education (PE) and Games at Bishopsgate pupils learn valuable skills like sportsmanship, collaboration, leadership,

and physical literacy. Sport at Bishopsgate is integral to pupils’ development. We take pride in instilling vital life skills in our pupils, preparing them for future challenges and offering a well-rounded education.

At Bishopsgate, our fully qualified Physical Education teachers and dedicated individual coaches are committed to nurturing each child’s mental and physical development. Through our diverse Games sessions, pupils have the opportunity to explore and excel in a wide range of sports, including football, netball, hockey, rugby, cricket, swimming, cross country, rowing, golf, biathlon, athletics, and tennis.

We believe in creating an environment where every child can discover new skills and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.

Mr Milo Baumgart Director of Sport

SCHEDULE

The children in Nursery, Reception and Year 1 have two PE lessons per week. This will include one PE lesson and one swimming lesson. In Year 2, an additional Boys’ Games or Girls’ Games lesson provides an introduction to competitive sports. For Prep pupils, Games sessions are timetabled on two afternoons per week. Matches take place weekly throughout the season.

In addition, and as outlined in this Handbook’s Extra Curricular section, a number of activities are open to children in the Pre Prep to enjoy after school.

KIT

Please refer to the Parent Microsite (B*Informed) and Uniform section for full details regarding kit required.

Kit related to a child’s after school activities needs to be brought in on the day of use and laundered after their activity ready for their next class.

COMPETITIVE SPORT

Occasionally, in Year 2, the children have inter-school matches and activities, for example, swimming, football, netball and rugby. By the end of the academic year, all children in Year 2 will have been given the opportunity to take part in interschool matches, preparing them for future fixtures in the Prep School.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & GAMES

The purpose of Games sessions is to develop and improve the children’s skills in the various sports we offer. Such key attributes include spacial awareness, sportsmanship, determination, team-work and co-operation. During Games sessions children are coached in small groups and to a high standard. It is the aim of the Sports Department to enable the children to experience all the major team games, and to extend their natural abilities to the full. Ultimately, the children will have the opportunity to put these skills to the test by competing in inter-school fixtures.

Regular sports fixtures are arranged for both boys and girls from Year 3 (under 8) up to Year 8 (under 13). The Sports Department endeavours for every child to be involved in at least three competitive fixtures each term. In order to get the best out of each individual’s ability, fixtures are arranged to challenge the children. This generally means that teams are selected on ability. However, there are other factors such as attitude, effort and behaviour which may influence selection. We also try to arrange as many competitive fixtures for the teams as possible. The children are always delighted to represent the School but it is a commitment and if selected for a team, a pupil is expected to play. Permission to miss matches must always be sought from the Headmaster in writing.

The majority of fixtures are scheduled on Wednesdays (Years 5 to 8) and on Fridays (Years 3 to 4). All matches are detailed in advance in the School Calendar and on the sports website, SOCS. If additional games are arranged during the term, we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible. All teams are communicated in advance of the fixtures.

All pupils have the opportunity at some point to represent Bishopsgate in a range of sports covered throughout the academic year. Under 8 and Under 9 fixtures at all levels are planned each term. Due to the sizes of some of the schools we

play, some teams may have more fixtures than other teams.

SPORTS COMMUNICATION

Please refer to the section in this handbook on Communication.

PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

We kindly ask that you refer to the Uniform section in this Handbook for a full list of required sports kit.

All pupils must have shin pads for both hockey and football matches and a mouthguard for specific sports.

All boys from Years 3 to 8 must have either plastic moulded football boots, or football/ rugby boots with safety studs –either rubber or aluminium.

Boys in Year 3 are recommended to purchase football boots with velcro straps, as laces can cause a long delay in changing at this age.

All pupils playing cricket must wear a helmet whilst batting or wicket keeping, regardless of ability. The School will provide helmets.

CHANGING ROOMS

For reasons you will understand, parents are not permitted to enter the pupils’ changing rooms at any time.

Miss R Turner Mr J Cottrell Head of Girls Games Head of Boys Games

It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome to you and your children to Bishopsgate Pre Prep! I am thrilled to embark on this journey of learning, growth and discovery alongside your little ones. With a deep passion for early childhood education and a commitment to fostering a nurturing and inspiring learning environment, I am dedicated to ensuring that every child in our care flourishes and thrives.

At Bishopsgate Pre Prep, we believe in the boundless potential of every child. Our approach is grounded in providing a holistic education that celebrates each child’s unique talents, interests and strengths. Through engaging and enriching experiences, we aim to ignite their curiosity, spark their imaginations and instil a lifelong love for learning.

As we embark on this exciting journey together, I encourage you to actively participate in your child’s education and engage with our school community. Your involvement and support are integral to your child’s success and we look

forward to partnering with you at this most important stage of your child’s journey.

Mrs Louisa Griffiths BA, PGCE Head of Pre Prep & EYFS

The Pre Prep aims to provide a quality educational environment that opens the eyes of the children to the world around them. Great importance is placed on your child’s social development. This is fostered in a caring environment, where courtesy, self-respect, and independence, as well as consideration for others, are highly valued. We aim to provide a high quality and well-resourced learning environment in which children can investigate, question and make mistakes without experiencing a sense of failure. It is important that children experience success and understand that learning is fun.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Our specific aims are:

• To enthuse children with a love of learning in a happy, safe environment.

• To deliver an innovative and inspiring curriculum with strong traditional values.

• To provide a warm, supportive environment where each child is valued and encouraged to seek challenge, to value effort and to persist in the face of obstacles.

• To work in partnership with parents for the good of the child.

DAILY ROUTINE

Please refer to our section on Daily Routine.

LEARNING SKILLS

At Bishopsgate, we are proud to offer a curriculum that is both engaging and academically challenging, with the aim of instilling a love of learning in our children. The learning skills; Pre-Senior Baccalaureate, underpins our curriculum at Bishopsgate. The Bishopsgate child is an effective, aspirational and self-motivated learner. We encourage children to ask questions and think critically. The PSB helps support our approach, promoting and developing key aptitudes in our children such as independence, collaboration, leadership and resilience. We actively encourage all of our children to find out more by questioning the ‘why and what if?’ This creates a belief that there is never a limit to what can be learnt.

READING

In the Pre Prep, pupils follow a book-stage reading scheme. Each book band includes a diverse selection of fiction and non-fiction texts drawn from various published reading schemes, as well as authentic ‘real’ books. Within their assigned stage, pupils have the autonomy to choose their own reading material. Progression to the next book band may vary from pupil to pupil, but the majority are expected to advance within a term. Our staff strive to listen to children read at least once a week, with the expectation that pupils also read to an adult at home for approximately ten minutes each day. Children’s reading progress is continuously monitored within the English curriculum and their development is documented in the reading record. We encourage parents to supplement school reading with other texts at home; there is no requirement to complete the school reading book every night. During holiday periods, some additional school reading books are sent home. However, we encourage parents to utilise public libraries and existing home libraries for enhanced holiday reading. Our overarching goal is to cultivate a lifelong passion for reading in our pupils.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

There will be a small amount of Home Learning (‘Independent Study’) to do with your child each week relating to the concepts being taught in class. In Nursery, these will start later in the year as the children become more familiar with their sounds and numbers. In Reception, the independent study usually focuses on reading each evening, a phonics and a maths task. In Years 1 and 2, the children also have spellings to learn each week and occasionally some topic tasks to complete. After the October half term Year 2’s Independent Study will be set

on the Google Classroom. The children will find out more about this in the first week back. It is really important that you read with your child every night for at least 10 minutes alongside any other independent study set. Books should be brought into school every day in the bookbag. Spellings will also be set for your child to learn. We encourage children to learn these in a variety of ways at home, as well as in the classroom as part of their English lessons.

PRE PREP

Years 1 to 2

EXPECTATIONS

In our Early Years we expect all of our children to be able to:

• Go to the toilet independently, including wiping themselves.

• Begin using a knife and fork to eat at lunchtime.

• Begin dressing and undressing independently for swimming sessions.

• Take off and put on their own shoes.

We recognise that the more independent the children are, the happier and more confident they will be.

MANAGING YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DAY

We know that you and your child may feel a little anxious on their first day. If your child is becoming unsettled, please do not be offended if we encourage you to leave swiftly. We do not want to appear unwelcoming; experience tells us that children settle within the first five minutes after you have left, but become more distressed if you stay longer. We will always call you if your child continues to be unsettled; their happiness is of utmost importance to us.

DROP-OFF ROUTINE

Please refer to our section on Daily Routine for full details. However, during the first week of school, Nursery and Reception parents may park and accompany their children to the classroom between 8.25am and 8.45am. From the second week children should be dropped off between 8.00am and 8.20am to the member of staff on duty in the drop off zone and make their way to the Windsor Building. Registration is at 8.20am so a prompt drop-off is expected. A number of staff will be on duty to help guide the children.

PICK-UP ROUTINE

Nursery children are collected at either 12.30pm or 3.30pm from the Nursery garden and Reception children are collected at 3.30pm from the Reception Garden. If your child is attending an after school activity, pick up is at 4.30pm from the club location. If your child requires care after these times there is an After-School Care facility which is available until 5.30pm. where pick up is from the Windsor Building. If you are late for a pick up time, your child will be taken to the School Office until you arrive; please inform them in advance.

CURRICULUM

Once the children are settled into the new routine of school, they will have discrete sessions for Maths and Phonics daily. Around these sessions, the children will engage in the learning environment and access activities which will enhance the skills that have been taught through ‘In the Moment’ interactions. During the week, the children will also benefit from being taught by specialists in Outdoor Learning, Sports, Dance, Swimming, Languages, Music and will also have weekly visits to the School Library. An outline of the curriculum areas of focus for your child will be provided at an Information Evening at the beginning of the academic year. This is also an ideal opportunity to meet the teachers and teaching assistants in each year group.

PERFORMANCES

At Bishopsgate, the children are encouraged to take part in performances in front of an audience. The first opportunity for this is at the end of the Michaelmas Term with the Nativity, followed in the Lent Term with a mini Music Showcase and finally, the ArtsFest in the Summer Term.

NURSERY

ENHANCED EXPERIENCES

Michaelmas - Christmas Concert

Lent - Stay & Play session and booked visitor

Summer - Garden Party

RECEPTION

ENHANCED EXPERIENCES

In order to enhance our children’s learning, we plan inspirational 'WOW' days and school trips throughout the year. These include:

Michaelmas - Julia Donaldson Day and Christmas Concert Lent - Superhero Day and Stay and Play session Summer - Garden Party and Bockett's Farm

EXPECTATIONS

In Years 1 and 2 we expect all of our children to be able to:

• Use a knife and fork at lunchtime.

• Independently dress for swimming, sports and outdoor learning sessions.

• Organise their belongings at the start and the end of each day.

We recognise that the more independent the children are, the happier and more confident they will be.

DROP-OFF ROUTINE

Please refer to our section on Daily Routine for full details. Children should be dropped off between 8.00am and 8.20am to the member of staff on duty in the drop off zone and make their way to the Windsor Building. Registration is at 8.20am so a prompt drop-off is expected. A number of staff will be on duty to help guide the children.

PICK-UP ROUTINE

Children are collected at 3:30pm from the back door of their classroom. If your child is attending an after school activity, pick up is at 4.30pm from the club location. If your child requires care after these times, there is an After-School Care facility which is available until 5.30pm, where pick up is from the Windsor Building. If you are late for a pick up time, your child will be taken to the School Office until you arrive; please inform them in advance.

CURRICULUM

Children are taught English and Maths daily. Science, Humanities and PSHE are taught weekly by the form tutor. We have daily Phonics lessons and teach spelling, grammar and punctuation in English lessons. As the children move into Years 1 and 2, we expect them to become more independent and to build on their Learning Skills. The children have a form teacher and a teaching assistant in their classroom every day.

Other subjects such as French, Music, Outdoor Learning, PE and Games are taught by specialist staff. Children also visit the School Library weekly. An outline of the curriculum areas of focus for your child will be provided at an Information Evening at the beginning of the academic year. This is also an ideal opportunity to meet the teachers and teaching assistants in each year group.

PERFORMANCES

At Bishopsgate, the children are encouraged to take part in performances in front of an audience. The first opportunity for this is at the end of the Michaelmas Term with the Christmas Production, followed in Lent Term with a mini Music Showcase and finally the ArtsFest in the Summer Term.

ENHANCED EXPERIENCES

Year 1

Year 1 will go on two trips, starting with our local area and to Wisley Gardens later in the year. They will also have several 'WOW' Days to inspire and enhance their learning, including a toys workshop.

Year 2

Michaelmas Term

Wow day - London

Trip- Waltham Place

Lent Term

Wow day - India

Trip- Weald and Downland

Summer Wow day- Carnival

Trip- Cotswold Wildlife Park

PREP SCHOOL

Middle Prep (Years 5 to 6)

As the Head of Middle Prep, it is my pleasure to welcome you and your children to this exciting and important stage of their Bishopsgate School journey.

Aged 9 to 11, your children are entering a unique and crucial phase of their educational journey. At Bishopsgate, we recognise the importance of nurturing their growing independence, curiosity, and self-discovery. It is a time where they are able to explore their passions, both in and outside of the classroom, with the support of some fantastic and caring staff, who will give them space to spread their wings while maintaining a safety net.

In Years 5 and 6, our focus is on providing a well-rounded education that challenges and inspires your children to reach

their full potential whilst equipping them with the skills and confidence they will need to thrive in the future. We also do not lose sight of the fact that it is an important time in terms of preparation for senior schools and we provide a comprehensive programme to help them, and you, through the process.

At Bishopsgate, we celebrate the uniqueness of each child, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where they feel valued and encouraged to pursue their dreams with the support of the whole Bishopsgate community.

I am excited to embark on this journey with you and your children and I look forward to supporting them every step of the way.

Mrs Kate Lloyd BSc (Hons) PGCE QTS Head of Middle Prep

WHAT CAN YOUR CHILD EXPECT IN YEARS 5 & 6?

Every day is different in the Middle Prep as children begin to navigate a more complex timetable.

In Year 5, the children transfer to their base in the Jubilee building and will move around for further specialist lessons such as Science. They will also start additional subjects that they will not have had exposure to before in Classics and Study Skills. In Year 6 they will move to different classrooms for each subject and will continue to be taught by specialist teachers for each individual subject. This can be a challenge at first while adjusting to the new timetable, but we will help in the early days and the children soon become comfortable and are able to be in the right place at the right time.

GROUPINGS

Year 5

Form Groups – This is where children register, take part in form time activities and ‘Learning for Life’ lessons (including PSHEE). These are also the groups that they have all subjects in with the exception of English and Maths.

Sets - Your child will be placed in ability-based sets for English and Maths. These sets are based on performance throughout

PREP SCHOOL

Middle Prep (Years 5 to 6)

the year and we will continue to monitor these closely. There is always the opportunity for movement between the sets as required. Year 5 children will be in mixed ability groups for English and Maths for the first few weeks of the Michaelmas term so that we can decide which of the four sets will suit them best.

Year 6

Form Groups – This is where children register, take part in form time activities and ‘Learning for Life’ lessons (including PSHEE)

Sets - Your child will be placed in ability-based sets for English and Maths. These sets are based on performance throughout the year and we will continue to monitor these closely. There is always the opportunity for movement between the sets as required.

Bands – Mixed ability groups are in place for the remainder of subjects.

LEARNING SKILLS

In Years 5 and 6 the children continue to build on a set of core learning skills and are given opportunities to reflect on their progress with each skill. We also actively encourage an enquiry based curriculum.

MANAGING BEHAVIOUR

At Bishopsgate, we follow a positive behaviour management system. This means we look for the positives first and foremost and encourage children to reflect on their own behaviour and decision making. When children fall short of these expectations we may be in touch with you and your support at home is much appreciated. More to follow in September as we look to adapt and improve our system further.

GOOGLE ACCOUNTS AND CHROMEBOOKS

In the Middle Prep, every child has a personal Chromebook for use in lessons or for organisational tasks. Children are asked to sign an agreement at the start of the year to ensure that they care for their Chromebooks and use it appropriately as a learning tool. Children access work using a Google account. These devices remain in school at all times, and children can access their work by logging in to their account using a home computer. Please note that this login is for the children only and parents should not access their child’s account. Children

should only use their school email to communicate with teachers. By all means please do ask your child to show you their Google drive and all their brilliant work!

TRIPS AND EXPERIENCES

Year 5 experience a range of trips throughout the year and we are currently planning some exciting and engaging trips for next year. There will of course be the Year 5 adventure camp at the end of the year too. Year 6 will also have a range of experiences including the Junior Citizen trip, team-building afternoons and a Summer Adventure camp!

THE BISHOPSGATE AWARD

The Bishopsgate Award Scheme is designed to recognise and enhance the outstanding extra curricular involvement of our pupils. This prestigious award is available to access from Year 6 (after senior school entrance exams are complete) and is divided into three tiers: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each encompassing three core skill categories: Service, Skill, and Adventure. Pupils are encouraged to maintain a Bishopsgate Award journal to document their accomplishments. While many tasks will be completed within the School’s curriculum, some may require additional effort outside of regular school hours.

PERFORMANCES

Children have a wide range of opportunities to get involved with the Creative Arts including performances through LAMDA lessons, evening music recitals, concerts, the carol service and ‘ArtsFest’. There are also opportunities for children to take part in the dramatic arts and performances.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

After the first week of school, independent study will start for the children. Independent study is set on Google Classroom with a different ‘classroom’ for each subject. The ‘to do’ button is particularly helpful to show which tasks are due soon and the deadline for completion. Tasks should last approximately 30 minutes and children should be given a minimum of 48 hours for completion. The children will receive their independent timetable on the first day back in September so they know which prep is set when.

Children may well find this challenging initially but it is important that they develop the skills to manage their workload and deadlines. If your child forgets, loses or does

PREP SCHOOL

Middle Prep (Years 5 to 6)

not complete a piece of work, encourage them to speak to or contact their teacher. Please do not try to fix it for them and scramble to find copies of work from other parents. Some teachers will choose to post copies of the work on Google Classroom, while others will not. This is all part of the journey for your child to learn how different teachers operate as they get older. If you have any concerns, for example, your child is always struggling to complete the work within the time set, please contact the subject teacher or your child’s Form Tutor (please do not send messages on Google Classroom).

INTERNAL ASSESSMENTS

Year 5: In the Michaelmas term, the children sit informal exams to assess progress and to inform teachers’ planning. These assessments take place in classrooms under exam conditions, but the children are supported through the process. Later in the year, Year 5 children will experience more formal exams, taking place in The Vickers’ Hall in preparation for Year 6 and potential pre-tests. Other subjects may also set assessments during lessons to check children’s understanding.

Year 6: The children sit Internal exams in Maths, English, Science and Classics in the Michaelmas Term, after the half term holidays. These are taken in The Vickers’ Hall. Summer Exams will also be taken in June, again in The Vickers’ Hall. Other subjects may also set assessments during lessons to check children’s understanding.

CATs: Years 5 and 6 students also take Cognitive Ability Tests

(Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative and Spatial Reasoning). This is an assessment of underlying ability and scores are standardised and measured against the national cohort. In addition there will be more than one opportunity to practise ahead of the Common online Pre Test with mock testing on Atom Learning. Mr Pym (The Deputy Head) is always happy to discuss the results with you once we have had a chance to analyse them.

PREPARATION FOR SENIOR SCHOOL

Year 5 is an excellent time to view potential senior schools and to really think about the next step in your child’s journey. We hold a 13+ information evening in November of the Michaelmas term so that parents can see what children get to experience during Years 7 and 8 at Bishopsgate. Throughout Year 5, and especially in Year 6, please keep us up to date with your current choices for your child’s senior

schools. This is particularly important if your child is due to sit any entrance exams, so that we can support them fully in the process. Here is a rough outline of the preparation process:

PRE TESTING

Many senior schools now use Pre Testing as part of their admissions process, either in Year 6 or Year 7. This invariably entails pupils spending a day at their chosen school where they sit Verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning tests, have an interview and possibly a short English and Maths assessment. Parents will then be informed as to whether their child has been successful, placed on a waiting list or that the school is not suitable. Support is provided to pupils through access to Verbal/ Non Verbal, Maths and English tests online which is managed by Mr Pym (Deputy Head). Additionally, interview practice is carried out regularly and we spend time ensuring their current affairs knowledge is up to date. Once you have registered your child at a senior school please inform your child’s Form Tutor who will schedule your child’s preparation from thereon in.

ADMISSIONS PROCESS TIMELINE

The admissions timeline for future schools is triggered in Year 5 where we look forward to assisting you from this point forward in the following ways:

Year 5

Michaelmas Term:

- Meet with Mr. Thacker (Headmaster) or Mr. Pym (Deputy Head) to discuss potential schools.

- Attend the 13+ at Bishopsgate evening event.

Lent Term:

- Attend various open days at prospective schools.

Summer Term:

- Deadlines for senior school applications start to close.

- Children will sit a mock pre-test and summer exams.

Year 6

Michaelmas Term:

- Confirm your school choices with Mr. Pym (Deputy Head).

- Participate in a whole-year-group practice interview.

PREP SCHOOL

Middle Prep (Years 5 to 6)

- Children sit the mock pre-test.

- Pre-tests are conducted.

- Early in the term, you will be asked to provide details of your child’s extra-curricular activities and passions to help us write a transfer report for their chosen senior schools.

Lent Term:

- Offers are given out around February half-term, and decisions need to be made.

- If you wish to discuss options, Mr. Thacker (Headmaster) or Mr. Pym (Deputy Head) are available for appointments.

- Have practice interviews with Mr. Thacker (Headmaster) as needed. FUTURE SCHOOLS PREPARATION PROCESS

PREP SCHOOL

Upper Prep (Years 7 to 8)

As the Head of Upper Prep at Bishopsgate School, I am delighted to welcome you and your children to this exciting phase of their educational journey. Years 7 and 8 in a Prep School are an incredibly exciting journey, representing the culminating point of their time at Bishopsgate before they transition to senior school. It is a period filled with personal pupil progress and adventure, that prepares them fully for the next chapter of their academic and personal lives at senior school. I am a passionate believer in the value that these two years bring and cannot wait to support the children through their adventures.

At this age, your children are discovering their unique identities, interests, and passions and our role is to support and guide them every step of the way. We understand

the importance of providing a nurturing and challenging environment, where they can thrive academically, socially and emotionally and feel well prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

Our Upper Prep programme is designed to empower your children to reach their full potential, both inside and outside the classroom. Through a combination of rigorous academic curriculum, enriching extra curricular activities, challenging yet rewarding camps and trips and personalised support, we aim to equip them with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to succeed in their future endeavours.

As parents, your involvement and support are invaluable during this pivotal time. Together, we can ensure that your children make the most of their Upper Prep experience and leave Bishopsgate School with cherished memories and a solid foundation for the years ahead.

I am honoured to be a part of your child’s educational journey and look forward to partnering with you in their growth and development.

Mr Tim Lovegrove BA (Hons) PGCE Head of Upper Prep

WHAT CAN YOUR CHILD EXPECT IN YEARS 7 & 8?

Groupings

Form groups – These are mixed Years 7 and 8 vertical tutor groups where students register and take part in form time activities and ‘Learning for Life’ including PSHEE lessons. Your child’s tutor should be your first port of call if you have any queries or concerns.

Sets - Your child will be placed in sets for the core subjects (Maths, English, Science, French and Classics). As always, these sets are based on performance throughout the year and we will continue to monitor these closely. There is always the opportunity for movement between the sets as required. Bands – Mixed ability groups are in place for the remainder of subjects. Philosophy and Ethics and History are an exception to this rule as they are timetabled against Classics sets. This means that your child will be in the same grouping as

PREP SCHOOL

Upper Prep (Years 7 to 8)

their Classics set, but it does not reflect their ability in these subjects and both groups cover the same material.

PRE-SENIOR BACCALAUREATE SKILLS

In Years 7 and 8, students continue to build a set of core learning skills which are now more formally referred to as The Pre-Senior Baccalaureate (PSB) skills. These are focused on the core skills of Communication, Thinking and Learning, Independence, Reviewing and Improving, Collaboration, Leadership and Resilience, and students will track how often they use these skills both in and out of lessons with feedback from staff. A key component of the PSB is regular, more in-depth tutorials where students discuss their progress in embedding these skills in school life, allowing time to evaluate how they can make each skill more secure.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Students at Bishopsgate have numerous opportunities to cultivate their leadership abilities. Year 8 students, having applied for senior leadership roles, are integral members of the School community and are expected to actively contribute to school life. Likewise, all Years 7 and 8 students are tasked with setting a positive example for younger peers and fulfilling various duties throughout the year. Every child in Years 7 and 8 will sign up for a duty at an appropriate time for them. This is a chance to give back to the community and can also be used as part of their service in their Bishopsgate Award. Duties are allocated at the start of the academic year in September and include Car Door Duty, Lunchtime Monitor and Play Leader in the Prep Prep age group.

Year 7 students embark on their leadership journey within various contexts, including lessons, camps, serving as librarians, participating in the School Council, and exploring other positions of responsibility.

Our overarching goal is for all pupils to leave Bishopsgate equipped with the skills to make a meaningful impact in their senior schools. Year 8 students, in particular, embrace the responsibilities and leadership opportunities afforded to them, with the chance to earn prestigious positions such as Head Boy or Girl, Prefect, or Team Captain.

Senior pupils are expected to uphold high standards in appearance, manners, courtesy and conduct, setting a positive example for younger students and earning their respect through responsible behaviour.

THE BISHOPSGATE AWARD

The Bishopsgate Award Scheme is designed to recognise and enhance the outstanding extra curricular involvement of our pupils. This prestigious award is divided into three tiers: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each encompassing three core skill categories: Service, Skill, and Adventure. Pupils are encouraged to maintain a Bishopsgate Award diary to document their accomplishments. While many tasks will be completed within the School’s curriculum, some may require additional effort outside of regular school hours.

TRIPS AND EXPERIENCES

In the Michaelmas Term, our Years 7 and 8 pupils will head on an adventure camp in September. Here they will embark on a range of exciting activities, alongside enjoying time to bond with others in these year groups. In the Summer Term, Year 7 pupils will head to Normandy in France, where they will visit a number of poignant historical sites related to D-Day, alongside enjoying the chance to develop their French speaking. Meanwhile, as part of the Leavers' Programme, Year 8 pupils are offered an exciting expedition to Transylvania, which hopefully is a fitting end to their journey at Bishopsgate.

The pinnacle of Year 8 is the Leavers' Programme, spanning the final weeks post-Common Entrance Exams. Students immerse themselves in various outdoor pursuits and personal growth activities during their final weeks at school. This period includes activities aimed at broadening experiences such as trips to Thorpe Park and Jump In, along with schoolbased activities like ‘Bake Off’ or mentoring younger pupils as well as easing the transition to senior school,with career talks and First Aid training.

PERFORMANCES

Students have a wide range of opportunities to get involved with the Creative Arts including performances through LAMDA lessons, evening music recitals, concerts, the carol service and ‘ArtsFest’. The highlight of the year is the Senior School production in the Lent term and recently, we have seen extraordinary performances of the musicals ‘Matilda’, ‘Annie’ and ‘Frozen’. All of Years 7 and 8 are involved in some form or another, be it as a lead performer, a supporting role or as part of the backstage and technical crew.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

There is a marked increase in independent study set in Years

PREP SCHOOL

Upper Prep (Years 7 to 8)

7 and 8. Students will need to be organised in order to reach their deadlines. Homework will be given throughout the week and students will be given a minimum of 48 hours for completion. Year 7 are likely to find the step up in workload tricky for the first few weeks, but we ask for your support in helping them to become independent and organised.

Assessments - Students sit exams in the core subjects (Maths, English, Science, French and Classics). In Year 7, these take place in the Michaelmas and Summer terms. For Year 8s, exams take place in the Michaelmas term and final Common Entrance exams in the Summer Term.

As with all aspects of senior life, students are expected to manage their revision independently in order to develop life skills and become self-motivated learners. We will, of course, help them with this process, but we certainly encourage them to take responsibility for their own learning and exam preparation.

PSB PROJECTS

One of the highlights of the Upper Prep academic programme is the PSB Projects. Here, the children have the opportunity to explore a question with a Humanities link in detail and with the guidance of their teachers are responsible for producing a project which includes producing a written element, a physical model, a virtual exhibition and an interview. This allows the children to delve deeply into an aspect of learning that hopefully, they feel a real passion for and is so often a fulfilling and rewarding experience for the children.

COMMON ROOM

An exciting privilege for pupils in the Upper Prep is our recently created Common Room. This is a space for our older pupils to enjoy during their break times and give them room to enjoy each other’s company. During the earlier stages of the year, our Year 8’s have sole use of the room, with numbers within this managed on a rotation basis. As the year develops, pupils in Year 7 will be given access to the space, provided they have demonstrated the required responsibility and maturity that goes with this privilege.

BEHAVIOUR

At Bishopsgate we follow a positive behaviour management system. This means we look for the positives first and foremost and encourage children to reflect on their own behaviour

and decision making. When children fall short of these expectations we may be in touch with you and your support at home is much appreciated. Please refer to our section on Wellbeing for more information.

WHAT DOES YOUR CHILD NEED?

Please refer to our Uniform List in this handbook.

GOOGLE ACCOUNTS AND CHROMEBOOKS

Every student has a personal Chromebook for use in lessons or organisational tasks. Students are asked to sign an agreement at the start of the year to ensure that they care for their Chromebooks and use it appropriately as a learning tool. These devices remain in school at all times but students can access their work by logging in to their account using a home computer. Please note that this login is for the students only and parents should not access their child’s account. Students should only use their school email to communicate with teachers. By all means please do ask your child to show you their Google drive and all their brilliant work!

SPORTS AND OUTDOOR LEARNING

All kit should be named clearly and kept in a child’s barrel bag. This should be brought to the Changing Rooms in Winson Hall (our Sports Hall) on a Monday and taken home on a Friday. (The Jubilee building is a barrel-bag free zone!)

Specific items needed for all sport and outdoor learning are listed in the uniform section of this handbook.

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

Extra-Curricular

CLUBS

We are proud to offer a huge selection of morning (before school), lunchtime and after-school clubs and activities and a full list of those bookable are published in advance of each term through the parent microsite BInformed. All activities will commence on the first week of term unless otherwise indicated. Extra-curricular clubs and activities give the children a breadth of skills which help them to develop as rounded individuals and will also help support their future schools portfolio.

All clubs and activities finish at 5.20pm, unless otherwise stated, with collection at 5.30pm.

No after-school clubs are compulsory but pupils are encouraged to choose from the menu of clubs to further stimulate their interests outside of the classroom.

We use a system called SOCS to manage our extra curricular clubs programme from initial student sign-up through to the registering of attendance for pupils. Through SOCS all stakeholders can view and sign-up pupils to our range of clubs for each term.

If you have not yet activated your SOCS account please follow the instructions here

ALLOCATION OF PLACES

SOCS allows us to adopt a ‘preferential sign-up method’, where parents/pupils will have the option to rank the clubs they wish to attend on a particular day or time slot in SOCS (Co-curricular). The school will then endeavour to award as many first choice clubs to pupils as possible, followed by second choice, and so on. When the sign-up window closes, preferences will be locked and the school will then run the Preferences Report to allocate the clubs using a standard algorithm. Club allocations will be determined before the end of the preceding term. More details about the preferential sign up can be found in this link.

Please note that if your child does not get their 1st choice club/clubs in a particular term(s), this is recorded and they are given preference priority in the future terms, providing they register preferences for that same club. Occasionally, it can take up to two terms for this to materialise if club numbers are limited.

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Clubs will only take place if there are sufficient numbers of children to participate. We will notify you if a club has to be cancelled due to a lack of demand and a list of those clubs with remaining spaces will be made available for your consideration.

All clubs appear on SOCS but not all are bookable. Occasionally your child(ren) might be invited to attend an extension, booster or invitation only club which will show on your child’s SOCS account to avoid any double bookings.

EARLY MORNING CLUB

Early Morning Club is a drop-in club that runs every morning between 7.45am and 8.00am. As it is a drop-in club it does not need to be booked and will not appear in the list of available clubs during the submission process.

PREP & AFTER SCHOOL CARE

There is no limit to the number of children that can be accommodated in Prep club. However, if you are planning to use Prep club on a regular basis we ask that you book your child in for the term. We understand that this selection may occasionally change depending upon your circumstances but we would ask that these changes are kept to a minimum.

COMMITMENT TO CLUBS

Once your child commences an activity, we would encourage them to continue with it for the full term. Refunds will not be available if your child does not attend once they have been given a place, since expenditure may already have been incurred based on numbers confirmed.

PRE PREP CLUBS

Whilst more clubs than ever are available, you will see that fewer after-school clubs are available for Nursery to Year 2. Please be reassured that this has been considered at length by the Senior Leadership Team. In our experience, many children can often become too tired from attending afterschool clubs and they may suffer as a result. However, there will be much in store for them as they work their way up the school.

RESIDENTIALS

All pupils in Years 3 to 8 are expected to attend their respective annual residential trips. Including residential trips from Year 3 as part of the broad curriculum that we

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

Extra-Curricular

celebrate at Bishopsgate enriches our pupil’s education by providing experiential learning that goes beyond the classroom. These trips promote social skills, independence, and resilience as pupils interact with their peers and adapt to new environments. Exposure to different cultures and natural settings broadens their perspectives and fosters environmental stewardship. Additionally, residential trips support personal growth, and create lasting memories, making them essential for nurturing well-rounded, resilient, and globally-minded individuals. No matter how busy the term schedule is, residentials are regarded as compulsory, also adding colour to those all-important senior school references where senior schools expect pupils to have a wider range of interests and experiences.

COLLECTION OF CHILDREN

Children must be collected by a responsible person and will not be released to strangers without prior arrangement with the parents. The clubs will not let children leave the premises escorted by a person under the age of 18 unless they have written permission from the parent or guardian. Persistent late collection may result in your child being unable to access after-school clubs in the future.

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT

Our Uniform Policy is essential for fostering our school’s ethos, promoting belonging and identity, and setting a tone conducive to a Bishopsgate education.

HAIR

Hair longer than collar length should be neatly tied back and away from the face. Any hair accessories must be either black or red. Hair should maintain its natural colour and be styled neatly, appropriate for School activities, and kept clean and tidy to uphold the formality of the school. Extreme hair lengths or styles, including shaved heads, excessive use of gel, or dyed hair, are not permitted.

JEWELLERY

Students in Years 7 and 8 are allowed to wear only one plain stud earring in each ear. Any additional jewellery, including anklets, will be confiscated until the end of the half term.

MAKEUP

Makeup is not permitted.

SHOES

Children are required to wear plain black shoes, such as lace-ups or shoes with a bar across the foot. Trainer-style (including black), heeled, or fashion shoes are not permitted.

UNIFORM LIST

Our full uniform list is located on our website: https://www. bishopsgateschool.com/admissions/uniform-and-stationery/ Our official uniform supplier is Direct Uniform: https:// directclothing.co.uk/collections/bishopsgate (01344 872299).

SEASONAL UNIFORM

At the beginning of the school year, pupils may wear either summer or winter uniform. However, after half term, winter uniform becomes compulsory for all, while summer uniform is mandatory from the start of the summer term.

Pre Prep UNIFORM

Outdoor Learning lessons take place throughout the year and the children will go outside whatever the weather! All children need a red waterproof suit - at least one size largeras this will go over clothes including the black School coat. In colder weather children will also need: School fleece, wellies, thick black socks, School red wool hat, black gloves.

EQUIPMENT LIST

Please ensure your child comes to school with the equipment list available on our School website. All items should be clearly named.

NEARLY NEW UNIFORM SHOP

Run by parents for parents, our Nearly New Uniform Shop recycles good quality uniform at affordable prices. It is open in term-time each Friday from 8.30am to 9.30am and Monday afternoon from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. No appointment is necessary. The shop is located on the top floor of our main school building and can be accessed by the black stairs located between The Windsor Building (Pre Prep) and The Vicker’s Hall (our performing arts building). If you would like to donate used items of uniform, please bring them into the School Office at any time.

LOST PROPERTY

We believe fostering a sense of responsibility for personal belongings is integral to your child’s Bishopsgate education. All items your child brings to school must be clearly labelled with their names, especially clothing, footwear and watches. We strongly advise against bringing valuable possessions to school. Lost and unnamed items of clothing are placed in the Lost Property store in the main school building corridor and periodically displayed outside the Music School throughout the term. At the end of each term, any unnamed items not reclaimed are either sent to the Nearly New Uniform shop for resale or disposed of. Rest assured, we make every effort to recover missing items and appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

BISHOPSGATE SCHOOL ONLINE UNIFORM SHOP

www.thedirectclothing.co.uk/school/bishopsgate-school

Email: customerservice@directclothing.co.uk

Tel: Direct Clothing: 01344 872299

All items on the uniform list are compulsory unless otherwise indicated. Please sew a name label on every item of clothing and on non-fabric items write the name with a marker pen.

Summer uniform may be worn until the end of the first half of the Michaelmas Term. Winter uniform is compulsory from the second half of the Lent Term.

Uniform List - Girls & Boys (Nursery, Reception & Year 1)

DAY WEAR

Shoes flat, leather or patent, no trainer-style (black)

Blazer branded*

Coat branded waterproof (black)*

Jumper branded*

Socks, ankle (grey)

Cap branded summer (black/ red)*

Cap summer (red)*

Tie branded senior (red/ black)*

Fleece, branded new style (red)*

Polo shirt (red)*

Socks ankle (white)

Shorts summer (black)*

Hair ties (black or red)1

Shirt, girls winter long-sleeve PP collar (white)

Blouse, girls summer short-sleeve tilted open neck (white)

Bow tie girls branded*

Dress girls winter pinafore, box pleat (grey)2

Dress girls branded summer*

Skirt girls winter mid-length, (grey) - see required design

Tights, girls winter (red)

Tights, girls or knee-high socks girls summer (white)

Tights, girls winter (grey)

Tights, girls winter (grey, flesh or nude colour)

Socks, girls summer ankle or knee-high (white)

Tie branded*

Trousers, boys winter (grey)

Shorts boys summer tailored, no leg-pockets (grey)

Socks, boys summer knee-high (grey)

Shirt, boys short-sleeved (white)

ACCESSORIES

Rucksack branded small (red)*

Book bag branded (red)*

Water bottle, summer

Barrel bag sport*

Boot bag sport*

Rucksack large (black)*

*Must be purchased from supplier.

1 Compulsory for hair that falls below the collar.

2 See required design.

3 Studs should be changeable.

SPORT

PE top branded (cream)*

PE shorts branded (cream)*

Games socks branded x2 (red/ black)*

Shin pads

Mouthguard

Socks, PE (white)

Trainers, indoor (no black soles)

Games top branded (red/ black)*

Trousers cricket summer*

Trousers, jogging (black)*

PE skort girls (cream)*

Games skort girls branded (red/ black)*

Games shorts boys branded (red/ black)*

Boots football boys3

Boots rugby boys4

Socks boys summer ankle plain (white)

SWIMMING

Swimming cap branded*

Bag swimming branded drawstring (red)*

Towel

Swimming suit girls branded*

Swimming trunks boys branded*

OUTDOOR LIFE

Suit, waterproof all-in-one*

Wellington boots

Trainers, outdoor (white)

OPTIONAL

Fleece, branded new style (red)

Base layer top plain (black)

Base layer leggings plain (black)

Cricket slip branded*

Training top branded waterproof*

Trousers waterproof, outdoor learning (black)

Jacket cagoule (black or red)

Scarf winter (black or red)

Gloves winter (black or red)

4 If studs not changeable on football boots.

5 If not wearing tights or knee-high socks.

6 Must be worn with shorts.

Cardigan girls branded (if not choosing jumper)*

Socks ankle girls summer (white)5

Shorts boys summer tailored, no leg-pockets (grey)

Socks boys branded summer knee-high (grey)6*

MIDDLE PREP

Uniform List - Girls & Boys (Year 5 & Year 6)

DAY WEAR

Shoes flat, leather or patent, no trainer-style (black)

Blazer branded*

Coat branded waterproof (black)*

Jumper branded*

Socks, ankle (grey)

Cap branded summer (black/ red)*

Cap summer (red)*

Tie branded senior (red/ black)*

Fleece, branded new style (red)*

Polo shirt (red)*

Socks ankle (white)

Shorts summer (black)*

Hair ties (black or red)1

Shirt, girls winter long-sleeve PP collar (white)

Blouse, girls summer short-sleeve tilted open neck (white)

Bow tie girls branded*

Dress girls winter pinafore, box pleat (grey)2

Dress girls branded summer*

Skirt girls winter mid-length, (grey) - see required design

Tights, girls winter (red)

Tights, girls or knee-high socks girls summer (white)

Tights, girls winter (grey)

Tights, girls winter (grey, flesh or nude colour)

Socks, girls summer ankle or knee-high (white)

Tie branded*

Trousers, boys winter (grey)

Shorts boys summer tailored, no leg-pockets (grey)

Socks, boys summer knee-high (grey)

Shirt, boys short-sleeved (white)

ACCESSORIES

Rucksack branded small (red)*

Book bag branded (red)*

Water bottle, summer

Barrel bag sport*

Boot bag sport*

Rucksack large (black)*

*Must be purchased from supplier.

1 Compulsory for hair that falls below the collar.

2 See required design.

3 Studs should be changeable.

= Girls only

= Boys only

SPORT

PE top branded (cream)*

PE shorts branded (cream)*

Games socks branded x2 (red/ black)*

Shin pads

Mouthguard

Socks, PE (white)

Trainers, indoor (no black soles)

Games top branded (red/ black)*

Trousers cricket summer*

Trousers, jogging (black)*

PE skort girls (cream)*

Games skort girls branded (red/ black)*

Games shorts boys branded (red/ black)*

Boots football boys3

Boots rugby boys4

Socks boys summer ankle plain (white)

SWIMMING

Swimming cap branded*

Bag swimming branded drawstring (red)*

Towel

Swimming suit girls branded*

Swimming trunks boys branded*

OUTDOOR LIFE

Suit, waterproof all-in-one*

Wellington boots

Trainers, outdoor (white)

OPTIONAL

Fleece, branded new style (red)

Base layer top plain (black)

Base layer leggings plain (black)

Cricket slip branded*

Training top branded waterproof*

Trousers waterproof, outdoor learning (black)

Jacket cagoule (black or red)

Scarf winter (black or red)

Gloves winter (black or red)

4 If studs not changeable on football boots.

5 If not wearing tights or knee-high socks.

6 Must be worn with shorts.

Cardigan girls branded (if not choosing jumper)*

Socks ankle girls summer (white)5

Shorts boys summer tailored, no leg-pockets (grey)

Socks boys branded summer knee-high (grey)*6

UPPER PREP

Uniform List - Girls & Boys (Year 7 & Year 8)

DAY WEAR

Shoes flat, leather or patent, no trainer-style (black)

Blazer branded*

Coat branded waterproof (black)*

Jumper branded*

Socks, ankle (grey)

Cap branded summer (black/ red)*

Cap summer (red)*

Tie branded senior (red/ black)*

Fleece, branded new style (red)*

Polo shirt (red)*

Socks ankle (white)

Shorts summer (black)*

Hair ties (black or red)1

Shirt, girls winter long-sleeve PP collar (white)

Blouse, girls summer short-sleeve tilted open neck (white)

Bow tie girls branded*

Dress girls winter pinafore, box pleat (grey)2

Dress girls branded summer*

Skirt girls winter mid-length, (grey) - see required design

Tights, girls winter (red)

Tights, girls or knee-high socks girls summer (white)

Tights, girls winter (grey)

Tights, girls winter (grey, flesh or nude colour)

Socks, girls summer ankle or knee-high (white)

Tie branded*

Trousers, boys winter (grey)

Shorts boys summer tailored, no leg-pockets (grey)

Socks, boys summer knee-high (grey)

Shirt, boys short-sleeved (white)

ACCESSORIES

Rucksack branded small (red)*

Book bag branded (red)*

Water bottle, summer

Barrel bag sport*

Boot bag sport*

Rucksack large (black)*

*Must be purchased from supplier.

1 Compulsory for hair that falls below the collar.

2 See required design.

3 Studs should be changeable.

4 If studs not changeable on football boots.

5 If not wearing tights or knee-high socks.

6 Must be worn with shorts. = Girls only

SPORT

PE top branded (cream)*

PE shorts branded (cream)*

Games socks branded x2 (red/ black)*

Shin pads

Mouthguard

Socks, PE (white)

Trainers, indoor (no black soles)

Games top branded (red/ black)*

Trousers cricket summer*

Trousers, jogging (black)*

PE skort girls (cream)*

Games skort girls branded (red/ black)*

Games shorts boys branded (red/ black)*

Boots football boys3

Boots rugby boys4

Socks boys summer ankle plain (white)

SWIMMING

Swimming cap branded*

Bag swimming branded drawstring (red)*

Towel

Swimming suit girls branded*

Swimming trunks boys branded*

OUTDOOR LIFE

Suit, waterproof all-in-one*

Wellington boots

Trainers, outdoor (white)

OPTIONAL

Fleece, branded new style (red)

Base layer top plain (black)

Base layer leggings plain (black)

Cricket slip branded*

Training top branded waterproof*

Trousers waterproof, outdoor learning (black)

Jacket cagoule (black or red)

Scarf winter (black or red)

Gloves winter (black or red)

Cardigan girls branded (if not choosing jumper)*

Socks ankle girls summer (white)5

Shorts boys summer tailored, no leg-pockets (grey)

Socks boys branded summer knee-high (grey)*6