Pupil Parent Handbook 2025

Pupil and Parent Handbook

Kingswood School

Founded by John Wesley in 1748

Mr P Baines

Chair of Governors

Kingswood School

Lansdown Bath

BA1 5RG

Telephone: 01225 734306

Mr A Gordon-Brown Headmaster

Kingswood School

Lansdown Bath

BA1 5RG

Telephone: 01225 734202

John Wesley 1703-1791

Kingswood School, Lansdown, Bath BA1 5RG Tel: 01225 734200 Email: reception@kingswood.bath.sch.uk www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

REVISED: January 2025

Kingswood School

Kingswood Foundation Vision

'Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.'

John Wesley

Our Vision

To transform lives through the power of holistic education so that young people grow in mind, body and spirit within a diverse and inclusive community.

Our Mission

To be a co-educational day and boarding school that inspires, challenges and prepares pupils to take their place as global citizens. We aim:

• To be a caring, inclusive, balanced co-educational community committed to the development of the full potential of each individual

• To maintain excellent standards in all academic, cultural and sporting activities

• To work with and in the communities we serve

• To uphold Christian values in practice as well as in theory, whilst welcoming all in a spirit of openness and respect

• To encourage pupils to think critically and develop a personal philosophy to guide them throughout their lives

• To be a great place to work, inspiring and empowering our people to work collaboratively as they seek to move the school forwards

• To safeguard the school for current and future generations through solid governance, clear-sighted leadership, sound financial performance and environmental best practice

Four Strategic Priorities

• Our plan is centred around four strategic priorities: Care for Each Individual, Educate for Life, Serve the Community and Live Sustainably. With our pupils at the heart of everything we do, these core priorities are our focus as we pursue the goal of excellence in all areas as one Kingswood Foundation.

Headmaster

Communication Between Parents and the School

Contact Numbers

Tel: 01225 734202

(Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown)

E-mail: headmaster@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Senior Deputy Head

Tel: 01225 734214 (Mr Mat Chataway) Mob: 07753 457632

E-mail: mchataway@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Deputy Head (Academic)

Tel: 01225 734249 (Dr Rachel McIlwaine) Mob: 07754 553127

E-mail: rmcilwaine@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Deputy Head (Co-Curricular)

Tel: 01225 734219 (Mr John W. Davies) Mob: 07436 168781

E-mail: jwdavies@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Deputy Head (Pastoral) Tel: 01225 734212 (Mr Jamie Matthews) Mob: 07436 167397

E-mail: jmatthews@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Head of Sixth Form Tel: 01225 734276 (Mr Craig Woodgate)

E-mail: cwoodgate@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Co-Heads of Middle School Tel: 01225 734262

(Mrs Sarah Herlinger) Mob: 07754 552159

E-mail: sherlinger@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

(Mrs Laura Smyth) Mob: 07754 552885

E-mail: lsmyth@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Head of Lower School Tel: 01225 734486 (Mr Stephen Pentreath)

E-mail: spentreath@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Head of Boarding

Tel: 01225 734207 (Mr Darrell Harding) Mob: 07436 168780

E-mail: dharding@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Designated Safeguarding Lead Tel: 01225 734262 (Mrs Laura Smyth) Mob: 07754 552885

E-mail: lsmyth@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Chaplain

Tel: 01225 734216 (Rev. Katy Thomas) Mob: 07513 129354

E-mail: kthomas@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Weekend Member of Staff on Duty

Chair of Governors Tel: 01225 734306 (Mr Paul Baines)

E-mail: cdamman@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Director of Finance and Operations Tel: 01225 734300 (Mr Alan Neale)

E-mail: bhaskins@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Director of External Relations (Mrs Hannah Drew) Tel: 01225 734326

E-mail: hdrew@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Head of Alumni and Donor Engagement (Mrs Katie Calvert-Jones) Tel: 01225 734399

E-mail: kcalvertjones@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Headmaster’s Executive Assistant Tel: 01225 734202 (Miss Emilie Prior) E-mail: eprior@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

The School Office Tel: 01225 734273 (Mr Theo Brown)

E-mail: tbrown@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

To report a pupil absent Tel: 01225 734200

E-mail: registration@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Health and Wellbeing Centre Tel: 01225 734483

E-mail: health&wellbeing@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Director of Sport Tel: 07713 106172 (Mr Tim Reeman) E-mail: treeman@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Head of Drama Tel: 01225 734473 (Ms Jo Brayton) E-mail: jbrayton@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Director of Music Tel: 01225 734254 (Mr Andy Barton)

E-mail: abarton@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Music Secretary Tel: 01225 734215 (Ms Hayley Smith)

E-mail: hsmith@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

John Moore Sports (School Uniform) Tel: 01225 466341

E-mail enquiries@johnmooresports.co.uk

07738 104983

Weekend Senior Management Team Member on Duty 01225 734444

HOUSE STAFF DUTY MOBILE

Beaconfield 07436 152347

Fonthill 07436 152341

Hall 07436 152342

Middle 07436 152343

School House 07561 702649

Summerhill 07436 152345

Upper 07710 163879

Westwood 07561 702825

CONTACTING THE SCHOOL:

We welcome suggestions and comments from parents, and we aim to deal properly with any concerns parents may raise within a reasonable time and in a courteous and efficient way.

“I am not sure whether to raise my concern or not?”

If parents have concerns, we would much rather hear them as soon as possible. If in doubt, you should contact the school as we are here to help.

“How should I raise my concern?”

The obvious approach is to talk directly to an appropriate member of staff or to communicate the issue in writing or by telephone. Be as clear as possible about what is troubling you. It is usually best to start with the person most closely connected with the issue.

Most concerns are best aired first with the Senior Houseparent of the House to which your child belongs.

BEACONFIELD (Junior Boarders: 11-13 years)

Boarding Houseparent: Mr George Newbould

FONTHILL (Senior Girls: 13-18 years)

Senior Houseparent: Ms Amy Webb

HALL (Senior Boys: 13-18 years)

Senior Houseparent: Mr Barney Brown

MIDDLE (Senior Boys: 13-18 years)

Senior Houseparent: Mr Steven Smyth

SCHOOL (Senior Girls: 13-18 years)

Senior Houseparent: Mrs Sarah Musgrove

SUMMERHILL (Senior Girls: 13-18 years)

Senior Houseparent: Mrs Monica Lopez

UPPER (Senior Boys: 13-18 years)

Senior Houseparent: Mr James Brown

WESTWOOD (Junior Pupils: 11-13 years)

Head of Lower School: Mr Stephen Pentreath

E-Mail: gnewbould@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734291 07511 179574 (Mobile)

E-Mail: awebb@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734498 07754 553959 (Mobile)

E-Mail: bbrown@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734410 07754 560119 (Mobile)

E-Mail: ssmyth@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734452 07561 702751 (Mobile)

E-Mail: smusgrove@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734415 07561 702649 (Mobile)

E-Mail: mlopez@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734457 07561 701282 (Mobile)

E-Mail: jbrown@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734427 07710 163879 (Mobile)

Email: spentreath@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Telephone: 01225 734486 07561 702825 (Duty Mobile)

Alternatively, you may wish to contact one of the following:

a) your child’s Tutor. Your child’s tutor will contact you at the start of the academic year. This will normally be by email and will subsequently allow parents to contact tutors on day to day academic and pastoral issues. (The school does not give out the private telephone numbers or home email addresses of its tutors).

b) the Senior Deputy Head, Mr Mat Chataway, 01225 734214 for general matters.

c) the Deputy Head (Academic), Dr Rachel McIlwaine, 01225 734249 who is able, for example, to put you in touch with appropriate Heads of Department.

d) the Deputy Head (Pastoral), Mr Jamie Matthews, 07436 167397 for pastoral matters.

e) the Deputy Head Co-Curricular, Mr John W. Davies, 01225 734219 for issues concerning activities and school trips.

f) the Designated Safeguarding Lead, Mrs Laura Smyth, 07754 552885, for safeguarding and child protection matters.

g) the Head of Boarding, Mr Darrell Harding, 07436 168780, for issues concerning boarding.

h) the Chaplain, Rev. Katy Thomas, 01225 734216 for confidential support, help and advice on any matter – or just for a friendly chat!

i) the Head of Lower School, Mr Stephen Pentreath, 01225 734486 for issues concerning Year 7 and 8.

j) the Co-Heads of Middle School, Mrs Sarah Herlinger and Mrs Laura Smyth, 01225 734262 for issues concerning Years 9, 10 and 11.

k) the Head of Sixth Form, Mr Craig Woodgate, 01225 734276 for issues concerning the Sixth Form.

l) the Director of Sport, Mr Tim Reeman, 01225 734256 for issues concerning sport.

m) the Director of Music, Mr Andy Barton, 01225 734254 for issues concerning music.

n) the Head of Drama, Ms Jo Brayton, 01225 734473 for issues concerning drama.

o) Health and Wellbeing Centre, 01225 734483 for medical matters.

p) the Director of External Relations, Mrs Hannah Drew, 01225 734326 for issues that concern prospective pupils.

q) The Financial Controller, Mrs Katy Tindall, 01225 734302 for financial matters.

If you are not satisfied with the outcome or feel that your concerns have not been fully and fairly considered, then you should contact the Senior Deputy Head, Mr Mat Chataway (01225 734214) or the Headmaster, Mr Andrew GordonBrown (01225 734202).

Reporting and Parents’ Meeting Schedule 2024-2025

The detailed reporting schedule for 2024-25 will be available on the Parent Portal from September.

Reporting activities for each year group are as follows:

Year 7 – Two Parents’ Meetings / One Full Report / Two Interim Reports / One additional Tutor Report

Year 8 – One Parents Meeting / Two Full Reports / Three Interim Reports

Year 9 - One Parents Meeting / Two Full Reports / Three Interim Reports

Year 10 - One Parents Meeting / Two Full Reports / Two Interim Reports

Year 11 - One Parents Meeting / One Full Report / Two Interim Reports

Year 12 – Two Parents’ Meetings / One Full Report / Two Interim Reports

Year 13 - One Parents Meeting / Two Full Reports / One Interim Report / One additional Tutor Report

Results from whole-cohort internal assessments/examinations are also communicated to parents independently of reports at the following times:

Year 7 – May/June

Year 8 – June

Year 9 – June

Year 10 – April/May

Year 11 – November

Year 12 – January and June

Year 13 – January

Monday to Friday

7.30 a m Breakfast

Pupils and their Organisation

The Daily Timetable

Pupils in Years 7 to 11 must be in Breakfast by 7.50 a.m. and Sixth Formers by 8.00 a.m. All meals must be cleared by 8.20am

8.20 a.m. Arrival at School for all day pupils

8.25 a m Registration followed by School Assembly, Chapel, Tutorial or House Assembly Pupils in Year 9 – 11 to lock their mobile phones into Yondr pouches

9.00–9.55 a m Period 1 (School Service for some year groups on Fridays)

10.00-10.55 a m Period 2

10.55-11.20 a.m. Quarter

11.20-12.15 p m Period 3

12.20-1.15 p m Period 4 (Lesson or Lunch)

1.20-2.10 p.m. Period 5 (Lesson or Lunch and Activities)

2.10-2.35 p m Afternoon Break

2.35-3.25 p.m. Period 6

3.30-4.20 p m Period 7

4.20 p m Tea

4.35 p.m. Activities (pupils who have no school commitment, and with permission, may sign out and leave)

5.30 p.m. Official End of School Day

5.30 p.m. Supper (Westwood pupils have priority)

6.15 p.m. Prep for Years 7 and 8 (until 7.30 p.m.)

6.30 p.m. Prep (until 8.00 p.m. for Year 9; until 8.30 p.m. for Years 10 and 11 and Sixth Form)

7.30 p.m. House arrangements for Years 7 and 8

8.30 p.m. Year 9 to be back in Houses

8.45 p.m. Year 10 to be back in Houses

9.00 p.m. Year 11 to be back in Houses. Year 9 hand in electronic devices and get ready for bed.

9.00 p.m. Dixon closes

9.15pm Year 10 hand in electronic devices and get ready for bed

9.30pm Lights out for Year 9. Year 11 hand in electronic devices and get ready for bed.

9.45pm Lights out for Year 10

10.00 p.m. Sixth Form to be back in Houses. Lights out for Year 11.

10.15 p.m. Year 12 hand in electronic devices (Sunday to Thursday inclusive)

10.30 p.m. Lights out for Year 12

Friday

6.30 p.m. Registration and House arrangements

In the Summer term, times for being back in the House and going to bed are put forward by quarter of an hour.

Saturday

There are no academic lessons on Saturdays and there is no formal prep time on Saturday evenings. Matches and practice sessions take place on Saturday afternoons (and some Saturday mornings) and pupils are expected to be available for these when required. Details are published in the Calendar.

Morning Breakfast in Houses

10.00 a.m.

12.00 p.m.

House check

House check

12.00 – 12.30 p.m. Lunch

5.30 p.m.

6.30 p.m.

Evening

10.00 p.m.

10.45 p.m.

Sunday

Supper

House check

House arrangements

Year 12 to be back in Houses

Year 13 to be back in Houses

Morning Breakfast in Houses

11.00 a.m.

12.00 p.m.

Brunch (Servery closes at 12.00 noon)

House check

5.30 p.m. Dinner

6.30 p.m.

Evening

8.45 p.m.

9.00 p m

9.15 p m

10.00 p.m.

Prep and quiet time in House until 8.00 p.m.

House arrangements

Year 9 to be back in Houses

Years 10 to be back in Houses

Year 11 to be back in Houses

Sixth Form to be back in Houses

Details of weekend activities are posted on a weekly basis. Pupils should check emails and listen carefully to announcements in Monday School Assembly and Friday House Assembly each week.

Registration and Permission to be Absent from School

1. Registration takes place in the morning and in the afternoon. All pupils are registered at every lesson throughout the school day. Legal obligations placed on the School mean that it is particularly important that pupils attend Registration. They should miss Registration only if unavoidably late or engaged in a legitimate school activity. Pupils not present at Registration will be marked absent. Pupils having a Music lesson at 8.25 a.m. must either see House Staff before the lesson, to ensure that they are marked present, or report to the School Office immediately after the lesson and sign in. Day pupils who arrive late must report to the School Office immediately on arrival at School and sign in.

2. Term dates are published well in advance so that parents/guardians can make travel and holiday arrangements that avoid disruption to the term. Parental requests for a pupil to arrive late or leave early must be made to the Senior Deputy Head well in advance and should be seen as an exceptional occurrence, made because of exceptional circumstances.

3. When day pupils are absent from school through illness or for any other reason, parents/guardians are asked to email registration@kingswood.bath.sch.uk copying their child’s tutor and Senior Houseparent in. They are asked to do this on the first day of absence and any subsequent days. After 8.00 a.m. parents may also contact the School Office on 01225 734200.

4. Parents of full boarders may request exeats for their child to go home at the weekend. They can also request a day exeat to take out a pupil on Saturday or Sunday. It is expected, however, that school commitments (e.g., to a team) will be honoured. The school has no weekends when all boarders are expected to have an exeat and be off site.

5. Permission for an exeat is given by Senior Houseparents, in response to a request from the pupil concerned and when the request is supported by parents/guardians. Such requests should, wherever possible, be made in writing no later than 48 hours in advance. Our assumption is that pupils spend day and weekend exeats with their parents/guardians. If a pupil wishes to spend an exeat elsewhere, parents/guardians must give permission. If a pupil wishes to spend an exeat at the home of another pupil, both sets of parents/guardians must give permission.

6. Proposals for term-time parties to which boarders are invited must be discussed with the Head of Boarding well in advance. The school will need to be satisfied that adequate adult supervision will be provided before permission for boarders to attend is given. An exeat request must be supported by both the parents/guardians of the pupils wanting the exeat and the host parents/guardians and at least one working weeks’ notice given in advance.

7. Specific permission must be obtained by every pupil who wishes to be absent from school during lessons, private study time, Chapel, (and for boarders) school meals, after supper or overnight. The only exceptions are if a pupil is absent because of membership of a school team or of a school group organised by a teacher.

Commitments to the School

Sports Matches

All pupils are expected to be available for matches and practice sessions when required. Most fixtures take place either on a Saturday morning or afternoon, but sometimes they can occur at other times or on other days of the week. Parents are welcome to attend matches and support their child. Details of fixtures are given in the termly calendar and weekly newsletter. Provisional timings are also sent to parents before the start of each term. At least one week’s notice is required if pupils will be missing a fixture.

Parents are asked to note that pupils representing the school will be required to travel to other venues for away fixtures. Transportation to and from school is provided by coach, minibus or other suitable means and parents, in accepting that their child will represent the school, give their assent to that transportation.

Music Performances or Drama Productions

Pupils who have been chosen to take part in any musical performances or drama productions are expected to give equivalent commitment to these events as that shown to sports matches. This will also apply to rehearsals, including at weekends.

Open Mornings and Formal Occasions

Pupils will be required to attend the annual Open Morning, Christmas Carol Service, Commemoration Day, and any other formal occasion that may from time to time appear in the School Calendar. Parents will be given sufficient notice of all of these dates.

Lessons and Prep

Pupils must adhere to the classroom code of conduct, as set out below, at all times.

Classroom Code of Conduct

Before

✓ make sure that you are on time and wearing your uniform correctly

✓ bring the correct books and equipment

✓ wait quietly, as instructed by your teacher

Beginning

✓ sit where you have been asked to sit

✓ unpack your books etc. as soon as you have sat down

✓ put your bag on the floor out of the way

During

✓ listen carefully to your teacher

✓ always put up your hand if you want to ask or answer a question

✓ consider others’ opinions

✓ keep your work area tidy

✓ do not distract others from working

✓ be aware of, and obey, safety rules in specialist areas

End

✓ check that you have written down your prep accurately

✓ pack your bag quickly and quietly

✓ put your chair under your desk

✓ wait to be dismissed

The following information should also be taken on board:

• Pupils in Years 7-11 should carry their books and equipment in a suitable backpack or bag.

• Pupils must not eat sweets in lessons.

• Chewing gum is a banned substance in school.

• Pupils must not write on desks, walls, or other inappropriate surfaces.

• If a pupil needs to miss a lesson – e.g., because of a Music lesson, match, or a Careers interview – they must contact the member of staff whose lesson will be missed and ask permission to be absent.

• Pupils are expected to complete and hand in prep on time.

• Pupils must regard as a matter of priority the catching-up on classwork and prep missed because of absence.

Meals

1. For boarders, attendance at all meals is compulsory, except for Saturday, and Sunday breakfast. Pupils who wish to be absent from other meals must seek permission from House Staff on each occasion.

2. Pupils have an opportunity to discuss the meals provided through the School Councils. Arrangements can be made for those who require a special diet.

3. Years 7 - 11 must queue for lunch in the Dining Hall via the Glass Passage Years 12 – 13 access the Sixth Form Dining Room via the Main School central corridor. All pupils queue for supper in the Dining Hall via the Glass Passage. Whenever the queue occupies the Glass Passage, everyone there must sit on the benches. In the Gong Passage (the corridor leading to the Dining Hall) the queue must keep to the left and be no more than two abreast. The Well, the Glass Passage and the Gong Passage must remain as thoroughfares

4. The Caterer will provide meals at times other than normal only when requested in writing by a member of staff.

Day Pupils

1. a) Day pupils are, like boarders, under the direct care of the Head and House Staff from 8.25 a.m. until the end of the school day. If, therefore, they wish to visit their homes at any time during the week within those hours they must ask permission from House Staff on each occasion.

b) Day pupils coming onto campus during the weekend, other than for a staff led activity, must report to the member of staff on duty on arrival at school.

2. a) Parents of day pupils may opt for their child to stay for supper or supper and prep Mondays to Fridays. This can be either on a regular or ad hoc basis. Bookings are to be made via SCOPAY and paid in advance. Bookings must be made with 48 hours’ notice Pupils should ensure that duty staff are aware of their presence at supper and prep. Prefects doing evening school duties are allowed supper with no charge and do not need to book in advance.

b) Day pupils may have breakfast at school if they wish. Parents who wish to sign their child in for breakfast (this includes pupils who are attending an early morning activity) should book via SCOPAY. Bookings must be made with 48 hours’ notice.

3. The rules for visiting Bath during the day are the same for day pupils as for boarders.

4. a) If a day pupil's parents consider that their child is temporarily unable to take part in school games, an email should be sent to the Head of Boys’ or Head of Girls’ Games with the pupil’s Senior Houseparent copied in

b) If pupils are unable to take part in some or all games owing to continuing illness or injury, the family doctor should be asked to write to the School’s Health and Wellbeing Lead.

The Dixon Sixth Form Centre

Sixth Formers are expected to work in the Dixon during study periods. In the evening, day and boarding pupils may also use the Dixon as a study space from 18:30-20:30 (for day pupils, this will incur an additional charge).

The following rules apply:

1. Private Study Periods:

i) A quiet and purposeful working environment should be maintained in the building, with minimal movement between studies for the duration of each study period.

ii) Students wishing to work in a study other than their own should ask permission from the member of staff on duty. At no point should there be more students in a study than the room is designed to accommodate.

iii) Students may listen to music but must use headphones.

iv) Students are not allowed to play games or watch films/TV during study periods.

v) Students may use the Dixon kitchen facilities or visit the Association Café during the breaks between study periods.

vi) Students may choose to work in the Association Café during a study period. Should they wish to study elsewhere e.g. in the Library, the Art Dept. they should sign out with the member of staff on duty before leaving the building.

vii) Students who fail to adhere to the above may be asked to work under direct teacher supervision during their study periods.

Evening Prep:

i) All students staying for evening prep in the Dixon must sign in with the duty member of staff between 6:20 and 6:30.

ii) Day pupils are not allowed to arrive late for prep e.g. because they are waiting for an evening activity to begin.

iii) The rules outlined above for private study periods also apply to evening prep. Students wishing to study elsewhere on the campus must sign out with the member of staff on duty.

2. Deliberate damage to any part of the fabric of the Dixon, or that which occurs through irresponsible behaviour, must be paid for. This includes repainting owing to graffiti.

3. Studies must be kept clean and tidy. Regular inspections will be made. In addition:

a) The occupants of a study are collectively responsible for maintaining the study’s good condition. This includes keeping work surfaces clear of clutter and removing sports clothes and shoes after sports sessions.

b) Cooking equipment, televisions, mini fridges, heaters and mains fairy lights are not permitted in studies.

c) All electrical equipment must be tested by a school approved electrician. Any items found not to have been tested may be removed.

c) Nothing should be hung around or beneath the lights that might constitute a fire risk.

d) Pictures, notices, and posters must be placed on the pinboards only and not on the bare walls and ceiling. Display areas must not contain any images that may offend.

e) It is the responsibility of all students to lock away valuable possessions in the lockers provided.

f) The last person to leave a study should ensure that lights are off, and windows closed.

4. Kitchen areas may only be used during the breaks between lessons and not during prep. When electrical equipment is being used, it must not be left unattended.

5. In the interests of safety, nothing should be thrown out of windows.

6. Students arriving to school late or departing early should sign in/out at the School Office.

7. Smoking, vaping and the drinking of alcohol are not permitted in the Dixon. Students found to be in breach of school rules will be subject to the standard school sanctions.

Opening Times

8.00am to 3.35pm, Monday to Friday

The Sixth Form Association Café

Menu

• Hot & Cold Drinks

• Pastries & Cakes

• Confectionery & Crisps

• A selection of hot snacks

• Fruit (free)

Payment

• There is a charge for all food and drink sold at the café, apart from fruit which is available for free.

• The café accepts card payments only; no cash.

Takeaway

• Students can buy a drink or snack from the café to take back to their study. They will need to bring their own mug.

• Takeaway drinks should be purchased at the start of study periods.

• Café crockery must not be taken out of the café.

Lunch

• Lunch will continue to be served in the Sixth Form Dining Room. Hot snacks will not be served in the café over the lunch period.

Use

• The café is available throughout the school day.

• At the common breaks i.e. Quarter, the Afternoon Break the café can be used as a Common Room.

• The café is also available as a study space during study periods. At these times the following rules apply:

o Students should go to the café at the start of the Study Period and base themselves there for the whole period; no wandering back and forth to their study.

o Individual or small group work is permitted, but noise levels should be kept to a minimum. If noise levels disrupt neighbouring classrooms students will be asked to leave.

o Students are expected to work during study periods; if students are socialising they will be asked to leave.

• Students are not allowed to bring food/drink in from outside to consume in the café.

CCTV

• Please note that the Association Café has CCTV which records 24 hours a day.

Pupils and their Pastoral Care and Welfare

Pastoral Care and Parental Involvement

The strong pastoral system is centred within the seven Houses. Each pupil, whether day or boarding, has a personal tutor, a member of the House Staff, who guides and advises them on academic work and personal development and acts as a listening ear. The tutor keeps in close contact with parents or guardians. Some of the teaching staff and Senior Management live on the campus and so are readily available to help the pupils. In addition, the Chaplain is available, as are members of the Health and Wellbeing Centre.

The first point of contact for parents is the tutor. They should be made aware of any matters regarding a pupil e.g., sickness, family issues, general well-being, etc. They see the maintaining of good communications with parents as one of their primary functions.

Senior Houseparents will write to all parents who are new to the school during the summer holiday, giving further details of their individual Houses, postal address and telephone numbers, routines, etc.

It is also essential that parents should inform the school of any change of address or telephone number. This includes up to date emergency contact numbers for parents or nominated guardians which can easily be forgotten when changes occur. It can cause considerable work and added distress if staff are unable to contact parents immediately. All changes should be notified to the School Office in writing.

Parents' Meetings for each age group are held annually, sometimes twice a year. Details are sent to parents and guardians by email. We anticipate continuing to offer remote Parents’ Meetings, particularly for parents based overseas. In addition, if a parent has a concern in a particular subject, appointments can be arranged with staff at any stage through the year.

Curriculum booklets for Key Stage 3, GCSE and Sixth Form are on the school’s website. Kingswood is committed to ongoing curriculum development and the Governors reserve the right to vary policy without reference to parents. Developments and changes are normally notified to parents through the newsletter, if changes affect the whole school, or through individual emails for year groups.

To keep parents in touch with Kingswood, we publish "Kingswood in Focus" annually as our school magazine. There is also a weekly newsletter from the Headmaster sent to all parents by e-mail.

If a parent has cause for concern regarding any aspect of school, they should contact the Senior Houseparent in the first instance. If the Senior Houseparent is unable to help or parents wish to take matters further, they should contact one of the Deputy Heads, Senior Deputy Head or the Headmaster. In the case of a serious grievance, issues may be brought to the Chairman of Governors and letters should be addressed care of the school for onward transmission.

Guardianship: Terms and Conditions (Boarders)

▪ Following the Children Act (1989), the Protection of Children Act (1999), the Care Standards Act ( 2000) and the updates to the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools (2022) Kingswood School, in promoting and safeguarding the welfare of every pupil, requires parents who do not live in the United Kingdom, and whose child is under the age of eighteen years, to appoint a guardian to act on their behalf.

The above legislation protects the rights of children and makes ‘proper and appropriate care’ a compulsory requirement.

During term time the school is legally responsible for each pupil’s welfare and undertakes parentally delegated responsibilities. However, there are times (e.g. half-term breaks, or when a child is suspended or expelled by the school, etc.) when the school must be able to hand over these parental responsibilities to another adult – a properly appointed guardian.

▪ Guardians may be a family member, or family friend who is over 25 years of age and who is not a full-time student, but who is resident in the UK. If such a contact in the UK is unavailable, guardians can be provided by a reputable guardian organisation. Kingswood School will undertake checks with appointed guardians to ensure that sufficient standards of care are in place, in line with the National Minimum Standards guidelines.

▪ Kingswood School is a member of AEGIS – a national body for monitoring and regulating the welfare of international students. AEGIS provides accreditation of guardianship organisations in line with the new National Minimum Standards for Boarding and guidance from the NCSC (The National Care Standards Commission). We strongly recommend that parents engage only a guardianship organisation that has been accredited by AEGIS. (Please contact the Registrar for a list of AEGIS accredited Guardianship Organisations).

▪ Kingswood School will not recommend a guardian or guardian organisation. It is the parents’ responsibility to appoint a reputable guardian or guardian organisation.

▪ An appointed guardian will:

1. Be a 24-hour point of contact for parents, pupil and school (and host family if applicable).

2. Act with delegated parental authority in the case of an emergency or crisis and in other matters agreed by the parents.

3. Provide both pastoral and educational support.

4. Liaise with the school and parents over holiday and exeat arrangements.

5. Make appropriate arrangements for medical care.

6. Inform the school in writing about all the details of travel arrangements made prior to a child leaving the school for an exeat weekend or a longer holiday period. The school must know the exact details of each pupil’s accommodation and methods of transportation.

Guardians should also respect the rights, religion and customs of a child, and adhere to what is commonly regarded as best practice in the guardianship and hosting of international students. This includes having in place a proper agreement with the pupil’s parents as to what the guardian’s responsibilities are.

▪ If a pupil does not have a guardian when required to do so by the school, or the appointed guardian is considered by the school to be unsatisfactory through lack of contact, reports of poor provision, poor welfare or poor accommodation from the returning child, etc., the school will invite parents to find a new guardian. Should parents fail to do so, they will be required to use an AEGIS accredited organisation to make adequate guardianship arrangements. The school reserves the right not to admit a pupil, or to exclude a pupil, for whom proper guardianship arrangements are not in place.

▪ The appropriate ‘Guardian’s Nomination’ and ‘Guardian’s Agreement’ forms will be sent by the Admissions Office to all parents new to the school for completion prior to the arrival of new pupils.

▪ All appointed Guardians must keep Senior Houseparents informed of any dates on which they themselves will be on holiday or are unable to take care of pupils owing to other absences or sickness and advise on alternative ‘cover’ for pupils during these periods.

▪ Under no circumstances will school staff act as educational guardians for Boarders.

Airport Transfers

It is expected that guardians will make transport arrangements for pupils. However, if the guardian is unable to meet children at the airport, we use a number of local companies to provide this service. The cost is charged to parents but if several pupils are to be collected at the same time, the cost can be shared.

Parents should contact Senior Houseparents for further information. Full details of flight number, airport, arrival time and terminal number are essential.

Parents should note that immigration may not permit younger children travelling alone into the country if they do not have precise travel plans.

There is a good rail service to Bath. From Heathrow, this is joined at Reading via an airport coach service. National Express Coaches run a regular and inexpensive service to Bath but will not take children travelling alone under the age of 14. Bristol International Airport is also only 40 minutes from Bath.

It is expected that boarders will return to school between 5.30pm and 8.30pm on the appointed day of return. If, for reasons, for instance, of flight times, a boarder has to return outside these times, then contact should be made in advance with the appropriate Senior Houseparent. Where an earlier arrival is advised, we will try to assist by opening the House. In circumstances where pupils are significantly delayed due to transport problems, guardians are expected to act to ensure their safe arrival. Where anticipated returns are after 10.00pm this may involve caring for the pupil in their own homes. Parents and/or Guardians should liaise with Senior Houseparents in the event of such a delay.

Keeping in Touch with Home (Boarders)

Each individual pupil is able to send and receive e-mail via their own individual e-mail address. Parents are asked to note that e-mails sent to the school, unlike letters, are not private documents because staff have to review files and email communications to ensure that users are using the system responsibly. All e-mails may be screened for unsuitable vocabulary and the identity of the sender/receiver in school will be known. Users should not expect that files stored on servers or disks may always be private.

Parents of boarders must always inform the Senior House Staff, in writing, of any period of time when they are out of the country, with contact details of both themselves and a nominated substitute in case of emergency.

Mobile Phone Use for Boarders in Years 7 and 8

1. All Year 7 and 8 boarders hand their phones in overnight - this is to make sure that their sleep is not interrupted.

Mobile Phone Use for Boarders in Years 9 - 13

1. Mobile phones and electronic devices may be used in the common areas and bedrooms of Boarding Houses at times directed by the Senior Houseparent.

2. Boarders in Years 9 – 11 and in Year 12 from Sunday to Thursday, must hand in mobile phones and other electronic devices at bedtime half an hour before lights out to help ensure uninterrupted sleep. These will be stored in a secure lockable space and will be available the following morning.

3. Any boarders who fail to do this can expect their electronic devices to be confiscated for 24 hours. During that time, they will still have access to school computers and the House telephone. Boarders may also ask their Houseparent to use their electronic device during this time if there is a legitimate need before the 24 hours has elapsed.

Boarding Pupils and Internet Access

Boarding pupils will be allowed to use the Internet for non-academic purposes such as online games and websites relating to their personal interests under the following conditions:

1. Access to such websites takes place outside of the academic day.

2. If a student is unhappy with the school’s filtering system with respect to accessing non-academic resources then they are requested to email the IT helpdesk at help@kingswood.bath.sch.uk where such requests will be risk assessed and allowed if deemed appropriate.

3. That if the nature and content of the requested websites are found to be unsuitable at a later date then permission to use the sites concerned will be withdrawn and the sites added to the school’s Internet block list.

Please note that in the case of social networking websites such as WeChat, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter, or any website that allows the online sharing of personal data and/or contact with persons not known by the individual concerned, a separate consent form from the parent/guardian is required. (As most social networking websites have a minimum age of 13 for users, all pupils in Year 7 and those in Year 8 under the age of 13 will not be allowed to access such websites via the school’s network.)

Social Networking

The school allows boarders access to approved social network websites such as Instagram at times as deemed appropriate by House Staff, providing the necessary consent is returned by parents. This is only for pupils aged 13 and above (the Law states that a child must be 13 or over to access such sites).

The school will endeavour, where possible, to adhere to the terms and conditions of third-party systems accessed via its network and will use adaptive filtering technology to block access to age restricted services. Given the number of applications and services offered worldwide is in the millions we will concentrate on the most popular to ensure compliance. In practice this means for example WhatsApp’s terms and conditions now state users of their platform need to be 13 or above so the school will restrict access to this age group.

We maintain an online table of the most common social media services, terms, and conditions they stipulate, and pupil years we allow access to, this can be accessed here https://kingswoodschool48.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/SharedLinks/Ed_PVoxYSxJDinHbVbyJxMBHig0GsJbxUS4nArG9y7TvA?e=tbPwf7

Undoubtedly, social networking is extremely popular with young people and has become an important part of their lives. However, as many of you are aware, it is not without its risks. For that reason, access will be carried out through the school’s normal filtering system so most unsuitable material should be screened out. However, no system is 100% effective, and our filtering system is least effective against non-English language websites.

It is important that you should know that:

• We cannot be responsible for all student behaviour once they are online.

• We are unable to control with whom our students have contact through a social networking website.

• We would be unable to retrace the activity of an individual in the event of inappropriate usage, without their full cooperation, as they have their own password to the social networking website.

• Our firewall and monitoring software is designed to monitor for phrases that may be related to paedophile grooming, drugs, racism, etc., but it cannot always correctly identify the context of the use of a particular word or phrase. We cannot guarantee that the DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead), Deputy DSL and ICT staff will spot every potential harmful violation.

• Please be aware that if your child accesses the internet using alternative provision, such as their own 3G/4G service, then our filtering service will not apply.

Risks Associated with Social Networking

Perhaps the most publicised risk associated with the use of social networking websites is that of grooming by paedophiles. If individuals are subjected to such unwanted attention the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) has an online facility for reporting such activity. They also have a website www.thinkuknow.co.uk aimed at raising awareness of some of the risks associated with the use of social networking by young people.

Less well publicised are the risks of identity theft posed by the use of social networking sites. Many young people unwittingly include personal information on their social networking profile that may then be used by others involved in criminal activity to pretend to be them. For example, students often include their date of birth which many banks or similar organisations may use as a security question.

You may have seen from some newspaper reports that there is also evidence to suggest that universities and employers have on occasions searched social networking sites looking for details of applicants and their suitability. Often the information that a young person may post on a social networking website would not be the type of information they would wish a prospective university applications tutor or interviewer for a post of employment to see. There have also been reports of individuals finding it difficult to remove material from a social networking website once they have posted it. What seemed very cool when you were 14 can be very embarrassing when you are 24 and looking for promotion!

It is very easy to lose control of digital images once they are posted on social networking sites. Even when access to images is restricted to friends, there is the possibility that a friend may copy images outside of the social networking site, in which case control is lost. In addition to this, given the increasing sophistication of digital image software, images can easily be altered.

With the last three points in mind, the Information Commissioner's office has produced guidelines for young people using social networking websites giving advice on how to protect their personal information. This can be found in the ‘For the Public’ section of their website.

Mid-Week Parties

As a boarding community, we do not allow boarders to attend mid-week parties that occur Sunday to Thursday inclusive. This could be counter-productive to the students’ work undertaken the following day, and may have a detrimental impact upon their prep. We encourage the parents of day pupils to adopt a similar stance for the sake of parity and to give their child every chance of achieving their best.

Split Families

The school recognises that sometimes divorce or separation of parents can be complicated. It is the school's policy not to become involved in disputes but to treat each party fairly and to carry out its legal obligations. Under the Children Act 1989, parents retain "parental responsibility" when they separate and continue to do so unless the court intervenes. This means that we, therefore, cannot refuse information to another party because a parent feels aggrieved by the circumstances of their divorce.

However, in some circumstances, a party may not have access to the child and a Court Order may be in existence. It is, therefore, essential that parents provide the school with any relevant information. Information is confidential and disseminated on a need-to-know basis but, obviously, in the case of no access, has to be widely known by all staff.

Where parents are separated or divorced, mailings are sent to both parties.

Pupils with Special Educational Needs

Kingswood prides itself on its capacity to cater for pupils with mild Specific Learning Difficulties. Our record of success with these pupils is very good. We have well-qualified specialist teachers to provide one-to-one support alongside the core timetable to enable students to access the curriculum and develop into independent learners.

Students with identified Specific Learning Difficulties will be placed on the SEND Register so teachers can support them according to their needs. All pupils are screened for potential underlying Specific Learning Difficulties on entry. If your child is newly identified once at Kingswood, please contact the Head of the Learning Support department immediately to discuss support available. Pupils, parents and teachers can all raise concerns about potential underlying Specific Learning Difficulties with the Head of Learning Support at any time.

Individual lessons with a specialist teacher are charged as an extra and designed to support students on the SEND Register. It is usual for pupils to have one lesson per week after a conversation with the Head of Learning Support. Please contact the Finance Office to confirm the cost of each session.

We recognise equally the many talents of our pupils, including those who may require additional support and challenge to reach their potential at an elite level. Enrichment activities form part of each key stage curriculum, as do extra-curricular activities. Where appropriate, the curriculum is adapted to encourage the specific strengths of particularly talented pupils. Our Head of Academic Enrichment monitors the academic progress of our scholars, liaising with their tutors and the Deputy Head (Academic). The school also has a policy relating to Gifted and Talented Pupils. Please contact the School Office if you would like to receive a copy of this policy.

Life Skills

All pupils at Kingswood receive timetabled Life Skills lessons. These cover crucial aspects of personal development such as physical and mental health and wellbeing, online safety, citizenship, personal finance, careers, relationships and sexual health to prepare our pupils for the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. Aspects of the curriculum include the statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSE) as set out by the Department for Education.

Pupils attend assemblies every week and these regularly include the presentation of topics that complement the Life Skills programme. The Sixth Form also attend General Studies talks each week which feature guest speakers who expand on the topics of the Life Skills course. In addition, the tutorial programme at Kingswood is closely linked with the Life Skills programme and students discuss topics with their tutor in small groups.

While we believe this programme will help to prepare our students to navigate the challenges of adolescence and adulthood, we hope that parents will recognise the importance of their own role in this area. Parents receive regular communication about upcoming topics and additional resources to support discussions at home.

Should parents wish to discuss the Life Skills curriculum including ways in which to support their children, they should contact the Head of Life Skills who will be happy to help.

The school also offers the following information to all pupils:

Pupils’ Personal Matters – Dealing with Concerns and Complaints

This section explains what you can do if you feel worried about something and what you may do if you wish to complain about how you are being, or have been, treated. If you misplace this booklet and think there is something you need to complain about, you can obtain another copy from your Houseparent or from the School Office. If you do not understand anything in this section, get a member of staff, a friend, or an older pupil to explain it to you.

There are many problems and situations which may upset you. No list can ever be appropriate for all individuals at all times, but you may not be able to manage alone in the following situations:

• You feel you are unable to cope owing to problems with work or for social reasons (e.g., pressure or difficulties with friendships).

• You feel you are being discriminated against on grounds of race, religion, gender or for any other reason.

• Someone has hurt, abused, or harassed you or has made suggestions - sexual or otherwise - that you feel are inappropriate.

• You feel you have been treated unreasonably by a member of staff.

• You are being bullied or treated unkindly or unfairly by another pupil.

• You think you are being badly taught, and you are not receiving a fair deal.

The school’s pastoral and counselling system should support you through your time at Kingswood and deal with most matters of concern. Under some circumstances you may wish to make a formal complaint in writing, especially if an informal complaint has not been satisfactorily resolved. Whether you deal alone with a problem, seek advice, or help, in sorting it out informally or decide that a formal complaint is appropriate, is a matter for you to decide. What do I do if I just want to talk to someone?

Remember you have close friends who may be able to help, or an older pupil to whom you feel you can turn. Your Houseparent or tutor is always ready to help. You may use any other member of staff (including Housekeepers) with whom you can comfortably talk. The Headmaster, the Deputy Head (Pastoral), the Senior Deputy Head, the Deputy Head (Academic), the Head of Boarding or the Chaplain are also available: do not be afraid of raising issues with them.

There may be times when you feel you cannot talk with a member of the academic or House Staff - this is perfectly alright and natural.

You can scan the QR code on the posters around school to complete a ‘Talk in Confidence’ form. This allows you to report anonymously if you wish, select your preferred method of communication for responses and suggest how you would like your issue followed up and who you would like to be involved.

You can also talk, telephone, or write to any of the following:

• Your parents

• The Health and Wellbeing Lead (or any of the Health and Wellbeing Centre staff) (Telephone: 01225 734483).

• The School Counsellors. Details of how to contact them are posted on House noticeboards.

• Off the Record, Open House Centre, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JW (Telephone: 01225 312481). A member of staff from Off the Record visits the school on a weekly basis and is available for short assessment and follow-up sessions with pupils. Appointments are made by referral through the Health and Wellbeing Centre. There is also a ‘drop-in’ facility which operates outside of lesson times. Details are in the Health and Wellbeing Centre and on House notice boards.

• Childline (Telephone: 0800 1111).

• If you have a particular concern about drugs, you can contact Off the Record (Telephone: 01225 312481), or FRANK (Telephone: 0300 1236600).

• If you are concerned that you may have become pregnant, or may have made someone pregnant through unprotected sex, you should seek immediate advice and certainly within 72 hours, from either the Health and Wellbeing Centre (Telephone: 01225 734483) or contact the Riverside Clinic (Contraception and Sexual Health Service) (Telephone: 01225 826855).

• The NSPCC has launched a dedicated helpline for children and young people who have experienced sexual harassment or abuse at school. (Telephone 0800 136 663 or email help@nspcc.org.uk)

• If you have a particular concern about boarding, you can contact the Office of the Children’s Commissioner (Telephone: 0800 528 0731).

What happens if I want to make a complaint about something?

Sometimes you may feel that you would like to complain about something that is worrying you. This might be about how you are being treated. The first thing you should do is speak to any member of staff you trust e.g., your Houseparent or tutor. It is particularly important for you to realise that if you are troubled over something you can have your tutor or a friend with you when you are talking with your Houseparent. The Headmaster, the Deputy Head (Pastoral), the Senior Deputy Head, the Deputy Head (Academic), the Head of Boarding or the Chaplain are also available; do not be afraid of raising issues with them.

If the matter cannot be easily settled to your satisfaction, then you can make a formal complaint. You will need to do this by:

a) writing to your Houseparent or the Headmaster, or telling your Houseparent that you wish to make a formal complaint, then

b) he or she will ensure the complaint is recorded in the complaints log held by the Headmaster’s Executive Assistant.

c) you will receive a response within five working days of you making the complaint.

d) You will then be asked to talk the matter through with the appropriate member of the Senior Management Team and you can have a friend with you or your tutor or any member of staff.

If you feel the matter has still not been dealt with seriously, you have the right, under the Children’s Act, to contact the Social Services department about the matter (Telephone: 01225 396312). Alternatively, you may wish to contact an outside agency like Off the Record or Childline.

Safeguarding

The Kingswood School Foundation (which comprises Kingswood Senior School and Kingswood Preparatory School) places the safety and wellbeing of all its pupils as our highest priority. Our business is to know everyone as an individual and to provide a secure and caring environment so that every pupil can learn and undertake educational activities in safety. Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children includes protecting children from maltreatment and ensuring they can grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care. Action will be taken to ensure all children have the best outcomes.

The Counter Terrorism and Security Act (2015) places a duty on specified authorities including schools to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism (the Prevent duty). At Kingswood School, we are committed to supporting vulnerable students through our safeguarding policies and procedures and recognise that this will support the school’s contribution to the Prevent duty. At the school, we build pupils’ resilience to radicalisation by promoting fundamental British values and enabling our pupils to challenge extremist views. The school has engaged positively with appropriate training to ensure all staff have the skills and knowledge to refer any concerns appropriately with Mrs Laura Smyth being the Lead for the school on Prevent.

The Foundation's Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy can be found on the school website. The Designated Safeguarding Lead for the Senior School is Mrs Laura Smyth who can be contacted on 07754 552885 or lsmyth@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Pupils and their Health

The School Health and Wellbeing Centre

Kingswood is fortunate to have an excellent Health and Wellbeing Centre which is staffed during term time by a team of dedicated, qualified, medical personnel. The team have a wide range of experience and are committed to supporting the students’ physical and mental health needs throughout their school journey

There are twice weekly GP clinics run onsite for boarders, provided by Combe Down Surgery, which are on Monday and Friday morning. The school’s Lead GP is Dr Kate Jenkins MBBS, MRCP, DFFP, DRCOG London 1996 MBBS London, DipFRSH. who can be contacted via the Health and Wellbeing Centre.

There is also a weekly physiotherapy clinic for all pupils alongside access to Counselling and a confidential mental health support service provided by Off the Record. The Health and Wellbeing Centre staff also liaise closely with external agencies, as needed, and the Royal United Hospital (RUH) is close by in the case of an emergency.

When Hospital and/or Specialist appointments are arranged, transport by taxi is organised by the Health and Wellbeing Centre staff and pupils under 17 years are accompanied. Boarders in the Sixth Form are given the option of having a member of staff accompany them. Any cost is included on the school bill.

1. School Clinic Times:

The Health and Wellbeing Centre is open Monday – Friday 08:00 - 18:00 allowing time for boarders to be seen without having to miss lessons. We encourage pupils to attend the Health and Wellbeing Centre during break times but understand this is not always possible.

Should pupils need to be seen during lessons or prep their teacher should phone or email ahead so that the Health and Wellbeing Centre can expect their arrival.

The Health and Wellbeing Centre has a member of staff on call each weekend 08:00 - 18:30 and are there in person from 08:00 - 13:00 on Saturdays

2. Day Pupils:

We ask that day students feeling unwell are not brought into school in the morning to attend the Health and Wellbeing Centre. If they are unwell at home we ask parents to provide the care needed and, if necessary, keep their child at home.

Any day pupil that becomes unwell during their school day will be cared for in the Health & Wellbeing Centre. Parents/guardians will be contacted to collect pupils if they are unable to return to lessons. Pupils must be collected in a timely manner by a parent or guardian or a designated adult where parental verbal or written consent has been received by the Health and Wellbeing Centre

3. Boarders: Entry to Kingswood School is conditional upon all pupils who are boarding having a full medical before arrival, and receipt of the completed Medical Information Form to School. Any outstanding UK immunisations will be brought up to date, as necessary. At the start of the academic year additional health checks may be carried out as necessary.

4. Ongoing Medical Needs: If a day or boarding pupil has a previously diagnosed medical condition, please ensure that the Health and Wellbeing Centre is made aware in advance, and that any care plans or medication plans are passed on in full. If appointments have been made for boarders’ during term-time, please inform the Health and Wellbeing Centre in advance.

If your child’s medical needs change please inform the Health and Wellbeing Centre.

General Medical Arrangements

The admission or retention of any child is conditional on acceptance of the following:

• All new boarding pupils must have a medical with the School Doctor which will be within the first term

• All parents are required to complete the Contact Sheet and Medical Information Record. These forms must be received by the school prior to the child's admission.

• The Health and Wellbeing Team must be informed of any medical issue and, if possible, a summary from the Family Doctor should be sent to the School Doctor before entry to Kingswood.

Full Boarders and Weekly Boarders

Registration: In order that the best use may be made of the facilities and services provided under the National Health Service, every overseas boarder must be registered on the list of the School Doctor throughout their time at school. During the school holidays, medical treatment should be obtained under the National Health Service Act as a "temporary resident". Parents must send their child's Medical Card and complete the Medical Information Record as provided in the induction mailing. UK boarders will have the option to either remain with their own GP practice or join the one allocated with the school but if they remain with their own GP they will only be seen as temporary resident when at school. This is outlined in the Medical Information Record paperwork. Please don’t hesitate to contact the Health and Wellbeing team if further advice is required.

Consent to Treatment: If a boarder requires emergency medical treatment, every effort will be made to obtain the prior consent of the parent or guardian (or the pupil personally if aged 16 or over). Should this be impossible in the time available, the Headmaster or Senior Houseparent, acting "in loco parentis", is authorised to give valid consent to such treatment (including anaesthetic or operation) as may be recommended by the School Doctor or Hospital Specialist. Please see the parental consent form in the induction mailing.

Should it be necessary for a pupil to seek medical advice during the school holidays, we ask that the doctor consulted provides a report of the episode of care, to enable the Health and Wellbeing Centre staff to be informed and provide continuity of care once term starts. This is particularly important if there is continuing medication, and it is imperative that all medication is clearly labelled and, if from abroad, in English.

A report (again in English if from abroad) is helpful when treatment is to be continued. It is only possible for the school to take responsibility for the administration of medication if prescription and dosage is clear.

The staff at the Health and Wellbeing Centre have close links with Houseparent's and ensure that the pupils medical needs are communicated. Houseparents are updated at the end of the day should any of the pupils from their House have been seen and informed of any medication administered.

Confidentiality: Throughout a pupil's time as a member of the school, all medical matters are treated with full confidentiality.

Day Pupils

Day pupils are usually registered with their own family doctor, but they may become registered with the School Doctor if they live within the City of Bath.

An annual form will be sent home, to be completed after the summer holidays, to update the Health and Wellbeing Centre of any changes, such as new allergies, on-going medication, and vaccinations.

Immunisations

It is most important that we should not only protect individuals against infectious diseases but should also ensure a high level of immunity within the school community. Therefore, on the Medical Information Record, we ask you to state the dates when your child was immunised against various diseases and the number of injections they received. If a boarder comes to the school and they have not been satisfactorily immunised or if the immunity has expired, we shall ask to carry out further immunisations with parental consent.

In addition, pupils are offered immunisation against influenza each year in the Autumn term. Further advice will be sent out by the Health and Wellbeing Centre once a date has been confirmed. A small charge may be required for this

immunisation, unless the pupil, who is registered with the School Doctor, suffers from asthma or other similar conditions, when it is available at no cost. In a Boarding School environment, influenza can spread rapidly and vaccines help to reduce this risk.

It is school policy to adopt the National Immunisation Programme and therefore your child, if a Boarder (or a Day Pupil who is registered with the School Doctor and with parental consent), will be immunised in accordance with national recommendations unless the Health and Wellbeing Lead is notified to the contrary. See Medical Information Record in the induction mailing for parents new to the school.

Some vaccines for overseas travel are not available under the National Health Service and a charge will be made to parents for these. You will be notified in advance if a charge is applicable. Anti-malarial drugs are not available on NHS prescription and a charge is made for these.

We do not ask for health certificates, but we must be notified in writing, before the following term, if pupils were in contact with any known infection during the holidays.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio and MenACWY Vaccinations: In line with NHS recommendations all Year 8 pupils will be offered the Human Papillomavirus vaccine in the Spring Term. In Year 9 they will receive a booster of the Human Papillomavirus vaccine, their Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio booster and the MenACWY vaccine. NHS consent forms will be sent by the Health and Wellbeing Centre to the relevant parents close to the time.

Medication

Parents are requested NOT to send their child to school with any medicines for their personal use to keep all pupils safe and medications accounted for. We ask that necessary medicines of any kind be given to the care of the Health and Wellbeing Centre staff, who will ensure that they are available to the pupil as required and the appropriate documentation is completed. The only exceptions to this should be emergency medication which may be unexpectedly required such as asthma inhalers and self-administered EpiPens and we ask that the Health and Wellbeing Staff are notified of these and appropriate forms completed.

All medication requirements must be discussed with the Health and Wellbeing Centre so that we are aware and can optimally care for your child.

A consent form will be sent out when a pupil joins Kingswood School and will stay on their record until they leave the school. This must be signed and returned and will give the Health and Wellbeing Centre staff permission to give over the counter medications, such as Paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen, as appropriate and the use of a Salbutamol Inhaler if your child’s is missing. Parents are asked to contact the Health and Wellbeing Centre with any changes.

Epipen Policy:

It is current UK medical guidance for all epipen carriers to carry two epipens on them. Please ensure that your child has their two epipens with them at school and that an allergy action plan has been completed for them. Please contact the Health and Wellbeing Team if you have any questions.

Spare epipens are located around the school and in the Health and Wellbeing Centre for emergency use.

The Health and Wellbeing Lead can be contacted at the Health and Wellbeing Centre (tel. 01225 734483) at any time during term-time when parents may wish to discuss medical or pastoral problems.

School’s Medical Scheme with ‘AXA PPP’

Whilst we are fortunate in having an excellent local hospital, with sympathetic and expert specialists, it is nevertheless often difficult to arrange appointments for non-urgent matters as quickly as one would wish. Often conditions which are minor can produce significant disruption to the academic and sporting lives of our pupils, and having such matters dealt with promptly is highly desirable. The School’s Medical Scheme not only provides cover for specialist consultations and physiotherapy but also allows for scans to be carried out very promptly. Details of this scheme are available from the Admissions Office for parents of new pupils and the Finance Office for parents of current pupils. If you already belong to a private medical health scheme, which includes the provision of private treatment for your child, please provide details of the policy and what is included and excluded.

Health and Safety

In the school's Health and Safety statement there is a section which relates to the duties of pupils. Pupils are required to be aware of, and to comply with, the following expectations:

a) To exercise personal responsibility for the safety of self and classmates.

b) To observe standards of dress consistent with safety and hygiene.

c) To observe all the safety rules of the school, including, the instructions of teaching staff given in an emergency, and rules relating to areas of the school where pupils are prohibited to access unsupervised.

d) To use and not wilfully misuse, neglect or interfere with things provided for their safety.

e) To report any unsafe facilities or behaviour to a member of teaching staff or Houseparent.

f) Not to have in their possession or use fireworks, firearms, knives or other dangerous implements or materials.

g) All electrical equipment used in Houses and common rooms must be approved by Senior Houseparents, used with due regard to safety and pass a safety inspection.

h) To acquaint themselves with the fire regulations applicable to their own Houses, as well as school fire regulations.

i) To acquaint themselves with, and follow, the safe walking routes which are in place across the School.

Sports Safety

1. In the Sports Hall it is important that the following regulations are obeyed:

a) Correct kit and correct footwear must always be worn.

b) Only one game (or, if the nets are drawn, two games) should be played at any one time.

c) There should be no use of the climbing wall or of gymnastic equipment without staff supervision.

d) There should be no use of the weights room or playing of hockey without either staff supervision or the permission of sports staff.

e) No eating or drinking is allowed.

f) All pupils must observe the more detailed rules for each sports area in the Sports Hall.

2. The Squash Court is available for pupils' use whenever it is free. Safety goggles should be worn when playing and pupils should see a member of the Games staff to borrow some if they do not have their own.

3. There is no access to the pool area without supervision by a member of staff. Pupils must also observe the following:

a) Going to and from the pool (and the changing rooms), track suit and shoes must be worn.

b) Correct swimming kit must be worn in the pool (shorts and cut-off jeans etc., are forbidden).

c) Running along the pool side is forbidden and diving must take place only at the deep end.

d) Heavy or sharp objects must not be taken into the pool and balls may be used only with permission.

e) Improper use of life saving equipment is forbidden.

4. When going to the Upper, pupils must use one of two routes:

a) Pupils may cross the road at the Chapel Crossing and walk up the right-hand side of Lansdown Road.

b) Pupils may also go to the Upper via the Middle Field. Pupils must cross at the Ensleigh Crossing using the lights. They should walk to the Upper on the right-hand side of Lansdown Road.

c) Pupils in Years 7 and 8 must be crossed over Lansdown Road by staff or Gap Students whenever they are accessing the Upper Playing Fields – the Chapel or Middle Field Crossings must be used.

Pupils should always be in groups when walking to the Upper and should contact a member of staff if this is not possible.

All pupils will receive a briefing at the start of each term from Games Staff.

For large events, such as Sports Day, further arrangements will be put in place

Pupil Appearance and Personal Belongings

Dress and Appearance

1. The school's dress regulations are intended to ensure that pupils are dressed smartly during the school day. Full details of current dress regulations are on pages 36-38.

2. The same standard of tidiness is also expected in hairstyles.

a) We prefer hair not to be dyed at all, however, if hair is dyed, it should be dyed only in a single natural colour. A pupil must expect to be sent home if hair dye leads to an inappropriate appearance in our opinion.

b) Hair bands and clips may be worn but must be completely plain.

c) Shaven heads, No 1 and No 2 haircuts are not permitted.

d) We adopt a slightly more flexible approach in the Sixth Form, subject to hair being judged to be smart and acceptable.

3. Body art tattoos of any description, whether permanent or temporary, are unacceptable.

4. The school cannot accept liability for damage or loss to items of jewellery and any articles of value must be covered by the parents' or pupils' insurance. For reasons of safety and security, pupils are only allowed to wear a limited amount of jewellery during school hours. Restrictions do not operate during free time with casual clothes, but we do not expect fashion to be extreme.

This means that for formal and school wear we apply the following rules:

a) Pupils are not permitted to wear tongue, nose, or eyebrow studs or indeed any visible piercing judged unsuitable. Earrings are expected to be inconspicuous; only a matching pair of studs may be worn, and they should be simple and small, and without any dangling attachments. If ears are pierced there should be only one hole in each ear and the piercing must be carried out under the supervision of parents or guardians. It must not, under any circumstances, be done by other pupils.

b) One ring may be worn on each hand, but these will have to be removed for safety reasons in some lessons. Rings should be of simple style and reasonably small size.

c) A single simple bracelet may be worn on each wrist.

d) Non-school badges, or ankle chains must not be worn with school uniform. Pupils may wear a thin gold/silver/metal chain under the neckline of a blouse/shirt

Jewellery should be subtle. It should not be distracting or detract from the wearing of a smart Kingswood uniform.

Pupils in Year 7 and 8

Pupils in Years 7 and 8 must have their hair tied up. They may not wear it half up and half down.

Pupils in Years 7 and 8 may wear one ring and one bracelet. They may not wear a necklace.

Pupils in Sixth Form

Pupils in Sixth Form are permitted to wear more than one earring in each ear. These must be small studs or small hoops (no bigger than 1cm in diameter) They are also permitted to wear a small discrete nose stud in the nostril (not in the septum)

Make-Up

Pupils in Years 7-11 are allowed to wear subtle, natural make-up which seeks to cover blemishes.

In practise, this means concealer on spots and under the eyes and/or a light application of tinted moisturiser, which should be as close to the natural skin colour of the pupil as possible.

This does not mean:

a) Heavy use of foundation or any concealer/tinted moisturiser that creates a discernibly different skin colour than the natural skin colour of the pupil.

b) Blusher/bronzer

c) Eye-liner

d) Eye shadow

e) Mascara (pupils in Year 11 are permitted to wear subtle mascara of a natural colour)

f) Brow pencil/colour

g) Lip gloss, liner or colour

h) Nail polish of any colour – nails should be kept short (no longer than the end of the finger for safety) and should not have polish, gels or tips.

Pupils in Sixth Form

Pupils in Sixth Form are allowed more freedom with make-up, although are still expected to present themselves in an appropriately formal way. If make-up is judged to be excessive and/or inappropriate, the school reserves the right to ask pupils to remove their make-up, or send them home.

School Uniform Shop

www.johnmooresports.co.uk

email: enquiries@johnmooresports.co.uk

2 Argyle Street, Bath, BA2 4BA

Opening times:

Mon-Fri: 09.30 - 17.30

Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00

Sunday: 10:30 - 16:30

Bank Holidays: 10.00 - 17.00

Tel: 01225 466341

Day Pupils

Schoolwear appointments can be made via the John Moore Sport website above. Select ‘Schools and Clubs’ and then ‘Schoolwear Appointments’ or you can call John Moore Sports on 01225 466341.

UK Boarding Pupils

Appointments should be made as per Day Pupils with a personal visit to John Moore Sports if possible. If a personal visit is not possible then items can be ordered to be delivered to either your home address or to your boarding house (free delivery to UK).

Overseas Boarding Pupils

Orders can be made online – unless an earlier visit to the UK is planned when an appointment should be made (as per Day Pupils). If ordering online, please arrange for uniform items to be delivered to your boarding house. John Moore Sports can advise on sizing via email or telephone call. School staff will collate any changes in uniform needed on the first day of school and John Moore Sports will arrange for fast delivery of replacement items.

Payment

Payment is required by the provider at the time of ordering and can be made by credit card, debit card or PayPal.

Naming of Uniform

It is a School regulation that ALL items of clothing (both uniform and casual wear for boarders) are named with a sewn-in name tape. Name tapes should be ordered through John Moore Sports or purchased privately.

Second Hand Uniform Shop

Run by a team of parent volunteers, the Friends of Kingswood Second Hand Shop is a highly valued resource, helping families to purchase uniform and sports kit at a fraction of the price it would cost to buy new. The shop offers blazers, skirts, trousers, ties, sports kit, sports equipment, a selection of rugby and astro boots and a few small items of stationery. Proceeds from the shop are used by the Friends of Kingswood to fund equipment and projects at the school to enhance the experience of all pupils.

Donations

The shop relies on kind donations of outgrown uniform and kit from Kingswood families. Any item of school uniform or sports kit, including hockey sticks, tennis racquets and cricket kit are greatly appreciated and can be donated for sale. Items should be current uniform and in good, clean, saleable condition. Donations can be left at the shop when it is open or dropped into the recycling bin outside (bagged if possible) at any time.

Location, Opening Times and Payment

The shop is situated on Fonthill Road, on the left before the Sports Hall. It currently opens weekly on alternate Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4.30-5.30pm. A full list of opening hours for each term is published in the school newsletter and displayed by the door. Parents or pupils are encouraged to drop in when the shop is open and the team will do their best to help.

Payment can be made by card/Apple Pay or cash. Purchases unfortunately cannot be added to a school bill.

Dress Code and Requirements for Years 7–11

We want our community to be as purposeful and professional in appearance as is possible during the working day. This means that we expect pupils to look as smart as they can. The main points in this respect are as follows:

• Shirts must be tucked in at all times.

• Rolled-up sleeves when wearing a tie are not permitted.

• When wearing a shirt, ties must be worn at all times; these will be done up properly at the neck. (The one exception is when Summer Dress is operable.)

• The hem of the skirt should not be more than 3" above the centre of the knee. If a pupil persistently wears a skirt shorter than this, they will be asked to replace it with a longer one or wear trousers.

• Scarves and hats should either be the school ones (available from John Moore Sports) or should be of a dark colour (i.e. black, grey or navy)

• Winter coat. Whilst we do not insist on a particular style of school coat, in periods of inclement or wintry weather we recommend that pupils do have a warm dark coat or jacket to be worn over the blazer.

School Wear: this is for lesson time, meals, week-day wear, visits to other schools, special occasions, and certain school functions. It consists of:

• Black school blazer with school crest*

• Charcoal V-neck pullover*

• White shirt (long or short sleeve) with school tie* (short sleeve for the summer term only) or

• White blouse (long sleeve, 3/4 sleeve or short sleeve open Rever collar* (short sleeve for the summer term only)

• Charcoal grey trousers* with plain grey or black socks or

• Tartan school skirt*, no shorter than 3” from centre of the knee, with black tights (optional grey or white socks in the Summer Term)

• Black leather shoes (not completely flat, heel must not be higher than 2”. Boots, suede shoes, trainer style shoes and casual shoes are not acceptable)

• School scarf* (optional)

• Black cagoule* (optional)

Sixth Form Dress Code and Regulations

The following dress regulations are intended to ensure that pupils are dressed smartly during the school day. Items of clothing which, by their style or use of materials, undermine this aim, are not acceptable. Pupils are expected to respect the spirit, as well as to adhere to these regulations.

Formal dress will be required on certain occasions – e.g., Open Day, Carol Service, Commemoration Day, Leavers’ Service, etc., and any other important school events, as directed by the Senior Deputy Head.

Formal Wear: This is for special occasions – e.g., certain Kingswood functions, visits to other schools and interviews. It consists of:

• A dark tailored suit (i.e., black, grey, or navy jacket and trousers or skirt of the same material). The hem of the skirt should not be more than 3" above the centre of the knee.

• A white long-sleeved tailored ‘business’ shirt (which must be tucked in)

• School tie

• A plain, dark V-neck pullover may be worn

• Polished black leather shoes. The heels should not be more than 3" high. Stiletto heels are not permitted for either formal or school wear. Trainer style shoes and casual shoes are not acceptable.

• Black socks (when wearing trousers)

• Plain flesh-coloured or plain dark tights (when wearing a skirt)

• If a Colours jacket is worn on a formal occasion, the formal trousers or skirt must be plain black or grey

• If a belt is worn it must be either black or brown

School Wear:

• A dark tailored suit (i.e., black, grey, or navy jacket and trousers or skirt of the same material). The hem of the skirt should not be more than 3" above the centre of the knee.

• A shirt which buttons at the neck and which has a stiff collar, or a shirt which has a Rever collar. Shirts may be plain or small checked or striped and must be tucked in.

• A tie must be worn with a stiff collar shirt

• A plain knitted V-neck pullover may be worn with a shirt or blouse

• A plain knitted Quarter Zip may be worn when wearing a shirt and tie

• Socks (when wearing trousers)

• Plain flesh-coloured or plain dark tights (when wearing a skirt)

• Shoes should be black or brown. Heels should not be more than 3” high. Boots, slingbacks, backless shoes, trainer style shoes, moccasin-type shoes and casual shoes are not acceptable.

• A non-school scarf may be worn, although not in lessons, the dining hall or assembly

• If a belt is worn it must be either black or brown

Games Wear

All Pupils

Required for all terms:

Kingswood tracksuit* (this is essential: our playing fields are very exposed and can be extremely cold)

White/red games shirt*

Kingswood mid-layer* (optional)

Kingswood hoodie* (optional)

Thermal top/skins* (optional black or white)

Black rugby shorts* or black games shorts* or black games skort* (combined skirt/shorts)

Black swimming trunks* or one-piece black swimming costume* and black swimming cap

White sports socks

Black and red school games socks*

Reversible black/red rugby shirt* (for boys’ rugby)

Kingswood ¾ leggings* (optional)

Summer Term:

Cricket shirt* (team players only)

School cricket jumper* (team players only)

White cricket trousers (team players only)

Note: Only school team players must have all the cricket kit – optional for normal sports wear

Athletics vest* (optional)

Athletics shorts (optional)

White tennis skirt (optional)

The wear in the Summer term depends on choice of games. (See uniform lists supplied for options)

*Items must be purchased from the uniform shop.

Equipment:

Sports Hall shoes (indoor training shoes with non-marking soles – please see note 2 below)

Athletic trainers for outside use (please see note 3 below)

Rugby boots (for boys’ rugby)

Astro Turf shoes (optional)

Shin pads

Opro gum shield (available through school)

Hockey stick

Tennis racquet

Sports Bag

Backpack

Sixth Form Games Kit

Sixth Formers who have come from other schools and are not in rugby or hockey teams may wear games clothes and swimming trunks from their previous school until they need replacement, providing they are smart. For additional sports requirements, please see uniform/kit list and check with Games staff.

Please note:

1. Black blazers are supplied with an integral embroidered school crest. We do not provide badges to be sewn on to other blazers.

2. We request that indoor training shoes are not dark or black and have non-marking soles to protect the sports hall floor against damage from dirt and grit.

3. It is never acceptable for pupils to wear ‘fashion’ trainers in school. Pupils should wear ‘athletic’ trainers when in sportswear, and shoes with uniform. ‘Athletic’ trainers are defined as trainers that have a discernible grip or arch-support that supports healthy exercise. Trainers such as Nike Air Force or Converse with a completely flat profile are clearly not designed for sports activities, and are therefore not permitted as they are neither shoes nor athletic trainers.

4. We are currently undertaking a review of the school sports kit, with the intention to launch a new kit from September 2025 at the earliest. Although there will be a lengthy transition period, of at least two years, you may wish to consider purchasing second hand sports kit until the launch.

Summer Dress

1. The Senior Deputy Head may, in exceptionally warm weather, announce that summer dress may be worn instead of normal school dress.

2. Those wearing summer dress are still expected to be attired smartly and appropriately. Normal regulations will apply, except for the modifications below. Those who contravene the regulations will be required to wear normal school dress.

When wearing a shirt

a) Jackets and ties may be left off. If a tie is not worn, the top button - and only the top button - of the shirt must be undone.

b) Ties may be worn when jackets are left off. Whenever a tie is worn, the top button of the shirt must be fastened.

c) If a jacket is worn, a tie must also be worn.

d) A V-neck pullover may be worn instead of a jacket. If a pullover is worn, a tie must also be worn.

e) Shirts must be tucked in.

f) A short-sleeve shirt may be worn. If a long-sleeve shirt is worn, the sleeves may be rolled up neatly when no tie is worn.

g) T-shirts worn underneath school shirts are not permitted.

When wearing a blouse

a) Blazers may be left off.

b) A short-sleeve blouse may be worn. If a long sleeve blouse is worn, the sleeves may be rolled up neatly.

c) A V-neck pullover may be worn instead of a jacket.

d) Blouses must be tucked in at all times.

When wearing a skirt

a) Ankle socks may be worn. They may be white or grey. Tights may be worn.

Sixth Form Summer Dress

As above, where relevant, plus:

a) Normal school shoes must be worn. Backless shoes, sandals, slingback shoes and open-toe shoes are not permitted.

b) Pupils may wear smart chino trousers as an alternative to suit trousers (appropriate colours include: black, navy blue, grey, stone, natural).

A uniform list giving full details of what is required (for boarders and day pupils) will have been provided in your induction mailing.

All articles of clothing (including casuals and games kit) must be sent to school in a clean, good condition and clearly marked with the owner's name and House. A charge will be made to boarders for repairs to damaged clothes, or for marking unnamed clothes sent to school.

Boarders may change into casual clothes to attend supper in the evenings and wear casual clothes at weekends. There is no specific restriction on the type of casual clothes worn or the amount to be brought, but common sense should prevail over the choice. If not, we shall send home what we consider to be inappropriate items. Please remember that if a pupil brings too many casual garments, problems of laundry, storage and lost property are created. Day pupils in Years 7 – 11 may not bring casual clothes to school unless specifically requested to do so for the purposes of an activity or excursion.

The school laundry operates commercial washing and drying machines. All boarders’ clothing is tumble-dried, and articles must be able to withstand the rigors of this system. Clothing should be colour-fast and those requiring special treatment, e.g., thermal wear and all-wool sweaters, should not be brought to school. This especially applies to casual wear and the school accepts no responsibility for damage to such items.

Books and Equipment

We do not charge extra for class books used throughout the year, although a charge will be made for lost or damaged books. We also recommend the following:

a) Every pupil in Years 7 to 11 (together with those in the Sixth Form studying subjects involving numerical work) needs to have a calculator. The only year for which a calculator is not essential in Maths is Year 7, but having one can be helpful when learning key topics, so it is recommended that all students have one. The Casio scientific calculator, model number Casio FX-83GTCW is appropriate for Years 7 to 11. For A Level Maths and Further Maths, the Casio Classwiz model number Casio FX-991CW is essential. These model numbers are accurate as of September 2024.

b) Appropriate stationery including blue/black pens, pencils, ruler etc.

Naming Property

It is a school regulation that ALL items of clothing (both uniform and casual wear for boarders) have name tapes sewn into them.

Name tapes can be ordered through John Moore Sports or purchased privately. For overseas boarders, parents may arrange with Senior Houseparents for Housekeepers to assist in sewing on labels, but a charge will be added to the bill for this service.

Other items, such as shoes and personal property, should be named using security marker pens etc. This includes cameras, laptops, and watches.

Bedding (Boarders)

Most boarders prefer to have a duvet on their bed. Parents should provide the duvet, two duvet covers, pillowcases and two single sheets. All items should be clearly marked with the student’s name.

Lost Property

Items of lost property found are either handed in to the Laundry or to the caretaker in the Domestic Office (behind the swimming pool).

All items of value that are not clothing are kept in the Domestic Office. All items held in the Domestic Office will be returned providing the pupil can describe the lost item and will be asked to sign for its return.

Articles of clothing that are named are laundered and returned to the appropriate House, where pupils may check with the Housekeepers in the first instance.

Non-named items of clothing, Sports equipment, school books and bags will be taken to the Lost Property Room (in the corridor by the Library) which will be open between 12.50 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday only) when pupils can view.

Parents may make enquiries with either of the above departments by telephoning the laundry on 01225 734334 and the Domestic Office on 01225 734285. Any items of unclaimed clothing at the end of each term will either be sold through the Second Hand Uniform Shop or donated to charity. Items of value unclaimed at the end of the year will be sold, and the funds donated to a designated charity.

Money and Personal Property (Boarders)

1. Pocket Money provided by parents of boarders should not be excessive. We would not expect any pupil in Years 7 – 9 to have more than £15 per week and most happily cope with far less. In addition:

a) All pupils should either deposit pocket money with House Staff or produce a letter completed by a parent or guardian authorising them to make use of a bank or building society account. Those in Years 7 - 8 must deposit the account book/plastic card with their House Staff. Other year groups are strongly recommended to do so.

b) Money received for boarders during the term must be deposited with the House Staff on the day of receipt if the bank etc. cannot be reached on that day. We recommend that pupils do not carry substantial amounts of cash at any time, nor should large sums be kept amongst their belongings. Safe keeping should be arranged with House Staff.

c) Pupils who use plastic cards to withdraw money from their account should not disclose their PIN number to other pupils nor ask others to withdraw money on their behalf.

2. All pupils must hand their passports to Senior Houseparents at the beginning of term.

3. All personal property must be clearly marked with its owner's name. It is strongly urged that valuable personal property (including any mobile phones, laptops or musical instruments) be privately insured.

4. Loss of money or property must be reported at once to House Staff.

5. Pupils are discouraged from borrowing money from each other and from buying / selling to each other.

6. Pupils must seek permission in advance from House Staff before bringing to school electrical items such as computers. Personal television sets, refrigerators etc. are not allowed.

7. Pupils whose parents own property in Bath but who do not live in it, must not have in their possession the family keys. If parents want their child to have access to the property at certain times, the keys must be given to their Senior Houseparent for safe keeping.

Portable Appliances (Boarders)

If boarders plan to bring any portable equipment with them, for example, laptops, hair-dryers, chargers etc. please ensure, as far as is practicably possible, that the power supply cable is in good condition; that the plug is not damaged or corroded; that the flex has no signs of tears/breaks; and is either the original cable supplied or a replacement approved by the manufacturer of the equipment to be used.

For all equipment, including chargers, you should check that the equipment will function appropriately using the 240 Volt supply in the UK. The power cable should also be fitted with the correct size fuse – 3 amp for equipment below 700 Watts, and a 13-amp fuse for anything over 700 Watts. All adaptors should be UK approved to comply with our safety regulations and should only be used as a temporary measure.

Apple plugs and chargers should be bought in the UK for laptops, phones and iPads.

Please do not buy travel adaptors, plugs, chargers and adaptors at the airport as they are not suitable for use in school.

Kingswood School will undertake tests on any equipment brought to the school to determine its safety. Should unsafe equipment be found, it will be removed from use.

Official School Policies

The school’s website contains several written policies. If you would like to receive a copy of a particular policy, please contact the School Office who will be happy to assist you.

All the school policies are important. We have chosen to link below some of the specific policies which ensure the continued wellbeing of Kingswood pupils.

Acceptable Use Agreement: Acceptable Use for Senior Pupils 2024.pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Anti-Bullying Policy: Anti Bullying Policy (1).pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Attendance Policy: Attendance Policy 1.pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Complaints Policy: Complaints Policy - Senior School.pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Drugs Education and Prevention Policy: Drugs Education and Prevention Policy.pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Mobile Phone Policy: Mobile Phone Policy - Senior School.pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Pupils and their Behaviour (inc. Rewards Policy): Pupils Behaviour Policy.pdf (kingswood.bath.sch.uk)

Sixth Form Driving and Passenger Code of Conduct: Sixth Form Driving and Passenger Code of Conduct.pdf

Fees, Charges and Payment of Accounts

Fees

The fees are reviewed annually by the Governors and it is their policy to keep the fee increase to a minimum. The Annual Fee is payable in either three equal instalments by the first day of each term or by 12 monthly direct debits. Late payment of fees incurs a monthly surcharge on the outstanding amount unless specific arrangements have been agreed with the Director of Finance and Operations in advance.

Arrangements may be made to pay fees by a 12 monthly instalment plan which may be of interest to some parents. Under this scheme, payments for the autumn term would need to commence on 1st September. Please contact the Finance Office (billing@kingswood.bath.sch.uk) for further details.

The School also offers a Fees in Advance Scheme, for two or more complete academic years. This scheme is designed to enable parents or guardians to make a single advance payment to the School to settle future school fees for a specified period, in exchange for a fair and reasonable discount. The Terms & Conditions of the Scheme are available from cdamman@kingwood.bath.sch.uk

A term's notice, or fees in lieu of notice, is required for any withdrawal of a child and this also applies to requests for boarding/day changes.

Each invoice must be paid on or before the first day of term when boarders normally return. A pupil may be excluded from the school at any time when fees are unpaid and will be deemed withdrawn without notice 28 days after exclusion. (Then a term’s fees in lieu of notice will be payable.)

A copy of our Standard Terms and Conditions (Parent Contract) will have been sent to you with your formal letter offer and acceptance form.

Extras

Kingswood strives to keep "extras," i.e. charges in addition to the basic day fee plus lunch or the boarding fee, to a minimum. Parents should expect to pay fees for public examinations (e.g. GCSE and A Level), EFL and Learning Support or a highly specialised activity which requires a special teacher, or fees for special visits, tours, or expeditions. Parents of day pupils may take advantage of our casual boarding and breakfast/supper/prep options.

The only compulsory regular “extras" for every pupil are the Chapel Fund at £4.60 and the House Fund at £6.50 per term for Day Pupils and £12.00 per term for Boarders. The Chapel Fund serves to support and enable charitable initiatives and the on-going pastoral work of the Chaplain. Payments for larger amounts for items such as trips will be requested from parents separately.

Parents of boarders are asked to ensure that their child has sufficient funds available for necessary end of term travel arrangements, expenses, etc. In view of the sums which may be involved, the school will not advance cash to pupils or add monies to the bill to provide cash advances.

Day Pupils’ Temporary Boarding

There may be occasions when it is helpful for a day pupil to board temporarily - family illness, parents on holiday or working temporarily on a project abroad, etc.

Overnight stays include supper and breakfast and the knowledge that your child is properly cared for. Houses have limited bed space for this option, so booking is essential. Parents must consult with the Senior Houseparent in advance of the date to avoid disappointment. A charge is made for this service, and this is added to the termly bill. For information on current charges, please see the Fee schedule on our website http://www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk/admissions/fees or contact the Finance Office billing@kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Once the request is agreed, parents are asked to complete a form giving a contact address, email and telephone numbers and return it to the Senior Houseparent before their child boards.

Extra Provisions

The school fee includes personal accident insurance. Details of the cover provided are available on request from the Director of Finance and Operations’ Office. We strongly encourage parents to insure personal possessions of students and parents may also wish to consider fee payment insurance.

Instrumental and Singing Lessons

Music is an integral part of life at Kingswood. We encourage all pupils to enter into the musical activities and opportunities that are open to them. A large number of pupils choose to take instrumental lessons from our great team of Visiting Music Teachers. Tuition is available at the school for the following:

• Piano

• Organ

• Harp

• Violin

• Viola

• Cello

• Double Bass

• Flute

• Oboe

• Clarinet

• Saxophone

• Bassoon

• French Horn

• Trumpet/Cornet

• Trombone

• Tuba

• Voice

• Drums

• Classical Guitar

• Electric Guitar

• Bass Guitar

We would recommend studying one or two instruments (including singing); a pupil would not usually study more than two instruments in school

Practice

Whilst pupils are highly encouraged to take music lessons, it must be noted that in order to progress, they must find time to practise regularly. The Music School is open four nights per week during prep in order to allow pupils to undertake private practice, as well as before school and during breaks and lunchtime. Parents are requested to help instil good practice habits by encouraging a daily routine at home. There are set practice times for Westwood boarders on four evenings per week – on other occasions boarders are expected to organise practice rotas with the aid of their teachers.

Ensembles

Pupils progress at a much faster rate if they play/sing regularly in an ensemble and the school provides many opportunities for participation in orchestras, bands choirs and other ensembles. Therefore, when invited, all pupils will be expected to join at least one ensemble, and represent the school at concerts, services and functions. Instrumentalists in Westwood are expected to join Westwood Orchestra as a matter of course, and likewise singers should expect to be members of Westwood Voices.

Fees

Pupils normally have thirty lessons of 30 minutes duration during the course of the year. Parents will be billed directly by the Visiting Music Teacher and fees are payable in advance to them – lessons should not commence until payment is received even though your child will be scheduled, so please ensure prompt payment is made to your Visiting Music Teacher. The recommended rate for 2024/2025 per 30 minute lesson is approximately £22.00. Your child will be timetabled in the normal manner but if payment is not received within the first week of term, the teacher will not be obliged to teach your child until payment is received and those lessons will be forfeited.

The Timetable

Lessons are normally given during school hours on a rotation timetable so that a different curriculum lesson is missed each week. By this system, a pupil rarely misses the same subject more than two or three times a term. Out of curriculum times (lunch breaks, etc) are included in the rotation, but teachers reserve these for Sixth Formers in the first instance, and no other year groups are entitled to fixed slots. The Pupil and Parent Handbook gives information regarding pupils’ responsibility to ask for permission to miss academic lessons and catching up on missed work and prep. At Kingswood, lessons are scheduled using the Practice Pal platform. This allows Visiting Music Teachers to schedule lesson times which are then automatically sent to pupils and parents via email and via the Practice Pal app. The app also allows for lesson notes to be communicated, to assist with weekly practice. It is the responsibility of pupils to check their timetables regularly on Practice Pal. Times are also displayed on the screen in the Music School. Upon commencing lessons, parents will receive an email from Practice Pal to sign up for an account and a unique 6-digit code for their child, which will be needed to complete the pupil app setup.

If you have any queries regarding your child’s lessons, then the first point of contact should be the Visiting Music Teacher. If there are concerns over a pupil’s attendance/progress, then the relevant teacher will contact parents, and will also discuss with the Director of Music.

Loan, Hire and Purchase of Instruments

The School possesses a small stock of instruments which may be hired to pupils as and when they become available. A hiring fee of £30 per term will usually be made for all instruments. Pupils are expected to possess their own instruments when they have reached a reasonable standard and the Director of Music/relevant Visiting Music Teacher will be pleased to advise over the purchase of instruments on request. Any instrument which is not available for hire through the school can be hired from a music shop. Pianos, guitars and percussion instruments are not available for hire through the school.

Illness

If a pupil misses a lesson owing to their illness then that lesson is forfeited. If a lesson is cancelled owing to the illness of the teacher, then the teacher will make up the missed lesson at a later date. If that is not feasible then the cost of the missed lesson will be reimbursed by the teacher concerned.

Notice Period

Should you wish lessons to cease, notice of terminating lessons must be given in writing or by email to the Visiting Music Teacher with a copy to the Director of Music for information. For most Visiting Music Teachers, notification must arrive by the half term before lessons are to finish – some require a longer notice period, please check carefully with the individual teacher for their exact terms. If less notice is given, a full term's fees will be charged by the music teacher concerned. NB: notice to take effect from the beginning of the Autumn term will not be accepted in the Summer holidays - it must be received by the half-term in May.

Probationary Term

All new pupils will have a probationary first term during which they will be expected to make good progress. If, at the end of the first term, progress has not been sufficient, teachers may discontinue a pupil’s lessons.

Applications

If you would like your child to commence individual vocal/instrumental lessons, please complete the application form. We endeavour to fulfil all requests for lessons, but due to the high demand for particular instruments, we do occasionally have to operate waiting lists. By signing and submitting the application form, you are committed to music lessons and the appropriate teacher’s terms and conditions will apply. Each teacher is self-employed and therefore has their own unique terms and conditions – please check these with the relevant teacher.

Reports

You will receive one full written report and one informal report during the year (this may take the form of a phone call or email). However, we strongly encourage you to keep in email/phone contact with the relevant Visiting Music Teacher whose contact details can be found on your invoice. Weekly feedback is also often logged in Practice Pal. If you would like to discuss your child’s musical activities at school you are always welcome to contact the Director of Music.

Terms and Conditions

1. Number of lessons per term (usual pattern)

Autumn 11

Spring 10

Summer 9

2. Due date of payment fees: All fees are to be paid direct to the teacher by the first day of each term.

3. Missed Lessons

a. Lessons missed by the teacher – the teacher will endeavour to make up missed lessons. However, if this is not feasible, then the teacher will either credit the missed lesson(s) to the following term, or reimburse the fee.

b. Lessons missed by the pupil – if the pupil misses a lesson due to absence from school, or forgets to come to the lesson, then the lesson is forfeited.

4. Music and Sundries: Music and sundries purchased for the pupil by the teacher will be put on his/her invoice; music purchased by the school will be put on the school bill.

5. Notice to discontinue lessons: Notice, in writing, must be sent to the teacher by the half-term holiday in the term in which lessons are to cease, otherwise fees are liable for the following term.

6. Location of music teaching: All teaching will take place in the Music School at Kingswood.

Other Information

Photographs and Video Footage

We may wish to use photographs and video of pupils during school activities for purposes of publicity, e.g., the school website, the School Magazine (Kingswood in Focus) and school social media accounts. Parents will have been requested to confirm their wishes as part of the Admissions process and must contact the School Office if they wish to change the permissions for their child or if they do not wish their child’s photographs to be used in this way.

Please adhere to our guidelines that photos taken by parents or guardians of children at any school event must not be shared on any social media channels, and cannot be used by the school on social media channels or for marketing purposes, unless you have express permission from all parties included in the image.

Bicycles

Pupils may not ride bicycles on the school campus. Bicycles may be used during free time (which does not include, for Sixth Formers, their private study periods) at the discretion of Senior Houseparents.

Sixth Form Driving Lessons

Whilst pupils may book driving lessons during study periods, this is not permitted during lessons, morning assemblies or Friday Service.

Sixth Form Cars, Motorcycles and Scooters

1. No pupil may bring a car, motorcycle, or scooter to school without a permit. Permits are issued by the Head of the Sixth Form. A permit is issued only when parents/guardians have indicated their approval.

2. The school will not accept any responsibility for the safety of those students who drive a vehicle to and from school. Nor does it accept responsibility for the safety of any vehicle, its passengers, or its contents at any time.