QMC – Your Guide to Boarding 2024 by QueenMargaretCollege

Your Guide to Boarding Queen Margaret House

JANUARY 2024

Key Contacts QUEEN MARGARET COLLEGE Postal Address Queen Margaret College PO Box 12-274 Thorndon Wellington 6144 New Zealand Street Address 53 Hobson Street Thorndon Wellington 6011 New Zealand Reception Telephone: +64 4 473 7160 Email: reception@qmc.school.nz Absences Via the QMC app Email: absences@qmc.school.nz QUEEN MARGARET HOUSE Street Address 5 Katherine Ave Thorndon Wellington 6011 New Zealand General Boarding Enquiries Telephone: +64 4 495 9185 Duty phone (24hrs for emergencies) Email: boarding@qmc.school.nz Director of Boarding For special permission, serious or confidential matters Email: becky.martin@qmc.school.nz Homestays Email: homestay@qmc.school.nz OTHER Wellbeing Team Email: fiona.crawford@qmc.school.nz Nurse Email: QMNurse@qmc.school.nz International Director Email: internationalstudents@qmc.school.nz 2

Contents Contents Haere mai

Welcome

Queen Margaret House contact information

Boarding staff

Your decision to come boarding

A day in the life of a boarder

Dining at QMH

Meal times

Health and wellbeing

Feedback and complaints procedure

Behaviour expectations and responsibilities

Queen Margaret House code of conduct

Leave procedure

Types of leave

Parents, guardians and hosts

Clothing requirements

Logistics and practicalities A-Z

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Bienvenue selamat datang

ようこそ hoan nghênh

Haere mai Welcome I am delighted to welcome you to our Queen Margaret House (QMH) whānau. We hope your time as part of our community will be an enjoyable experience that stays with you for many years to come. The countries of the world meet at QMH. We are proud to be a mix of local and international students. We provide a ‘home away from home’, where international students can improve their English as well as share the culture of their home country. Our local students also share New Zealand culture and Māoritanga, in return fostering lifelong friendships that will span the globe. We are a small boarding house of 42 students, where every individual is seen, valued, and nurtured to achieve their best. We work in partnership with the College, parents, and whānau to provide excellent academic support, life skills, service to others and leadership opportunities. There is also an emphasis on fun and laughter, and we encourage boarders to participate in social and recreational activities while living in our vibrant and safe capital city.

Living on campus is not only convenient; it also allows for out-of-hours access to school facilities and sports and performing arts opportunities. We are securely nestled amongst the embassies of the world which is ideal for international students to stay connected to their culture whilst overseas. Our catering department offers a varied and healthy menu with global cuisine as well as a themed dinner each term to promote a sense of community. Our annual etiquette dinner is a chance for boarders to experience fine dining and celebrate the achievements of the year in style. This handbook is designed to provide all the information you need around life at QMH including routines, rules, and expectations. Please read it and discuss these as a family. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to meeting you.

Becky Martin Director of Boarding becky.martin@qmc.school.nz

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Queen Margaret House contact information Queen Margaret House values the cooperation of parents and caregivers. We welcome the opportunity to discuss any aspect of your daughter's boarding life, to clarify arrangements or to discuss any issues relating to duty of care.

Parents are asked to contact the Director of Boarding in the first instance if they have a concern.

Boarding House hours

Absence from school and boarding

Queen Margaret House is closed weekdays from 8.30am – 3.30pm while the girls are at school and during the school holidays.

All absence/leave email requests must go to:

Emails, answerphone messages, and texts will be checked regularly and replied to in a timely fashion. If you need to speak to the college urgently outisde of normal hours, you can call the college reception. They will treat your message as a priority and contact the Director of Boarding on your behalf.

Access to Queen Margaret House Queen Margaret House is closed to students and visitors during school hours. If family members are collecting or returning students during school hours, please go to the College reception for assistance.

Queen Margaret House contact details Phone: +64 4 495 9185 Duty cell phone: +64 27 210 5399 Email: boarding@qmc.school.nz

Leave from boarding only – QMH boarding@qmc.school.nz Unexpected absences from boarding – QMH absences@qmc.school.nz Leave from school - QMC and boarding – QMH principals.assistant@qmc.school.nz Please contact the Director of Boarding if a student is unable to return to the Boarding House at the required time following leave. Permission for planned absences from the College must be requested via email to principals.assistant@qmc.school.nz. The Boarding House cannot give permission for any absences during the school day.

Contacting boarders It is requested that parents do not phone or text their daughters during the following times: Meal times

Monday – Thursday

6.00pm – 6.30pm

Prep times

Monday – Thursday

6.45pm – 8.30pm

After lights out

See daily and weekend routines

Letters and emails can be sent any time.

Our postal address

For all couriers please use the street address below

Boarder's name Queen Margaret House PO Box 12-274 Thorndon Wellington 6144 New Zealand

Boarder's name Queen Margaret House 53 Hobson Street Thorndon Wellington 6011 New Zealand

If parents want to drop off items for boarders during the school day, they can be left at the school office.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Boarding staff The Director of Boarding has day-to-day responsibility for the running of Queen Margaret House and reports to the Deputy Principal of Queen Margaret College. The Assistant House Manager and Weekend Boarding Supervisors assist the Director of Boarding to run the Boarding House and have additional responsibilities to support boarders.

All Boarding House staff are first aid trained and at least one staff member will be on duty at Queen Margaret House at any given time. Additional supervisors assist in order to ensure that student care and safety is of the highest quality. These supervisors will also assist with weekend activities and additional opportunities.

Deputy Principal

Business Manager

Catering Manager

Director of Boarding (main contact for parents and boarders) Assistant Boarding Manager

Year level Deans and Director of International Students

Supervisors

Becky Martin | Director of Boarding Becky joined the boarding house team in 2020 as Assistant House Manager and has ascended through various roles to emerge as our Director of Boarding. She has lived onsite throughout her tenure and has a unique insight into residential life for boarders and staff. Becky has a wide array of experience, having worked in other boarding houses in New Zealand and Australia, and through her mahi as a Youth Worker in the United Kingdom. Becky is also an ABSA Accredited Boarding Practitioner (Level 2) and a practicing member of Korowai Tupu. Becky came to New Zealand on a 6-month holiday which has turned into 6 years (and counting)!

Cathy Sullivan | Assistant House Manager Cathy is passionate about youth development and has engaged students with a variety of learning, behavioural and intellectual needs. Prior to joining the boarding whanau in mid-2022, she worked as a Supportive Learning Assistant at Upper Hutt College. Cathy is a mother to 3 older children and grandmother to 5, and treats QMH boarders as if they were her own. She is kind, caring and empathetic and shares many of her skills with the students – crocheting has become a favourite! 8

Blaze Lambert | Weekend Team Leader Blaze is new to our team for 2024, and joins us on a gap year from her home country of Northern Ireland. She will be responsible for bringing the house to life each weekend, through planning and running recreation activities for boarders. Most recently Blaze has been a Primary School Teacher and Additional Support Needs Teacher in Scotland. Blaze holds an MA in Education with first class honours from the University of Dundee. Her interests are hiking, sailing, singing, drawing and visiting galleries.

Lily McCowan | Boarding Supervisor This is Lily’s 3rd year at QMH as a part-time boarding supervisor. She is a former boarder of Epsom Girls Grammar School in Auckland. She is an eldest daughter, and has volunteered as a peer supporter, camp counsellor, class representative and house leader. Lily has just finished her Bachelor of Arts in History and Art History at Victoria University, continuing with Honours in 2024. Her favourite house activities include the annual etiquette dinner, Sunday brunch, movie nights and house hui. During the holidays, Lily likes to visit her family in Waiheke, bike-ride, finish all the books she’s procrastinated reading, and go on tramps.

Rayleen Hirini | Boarding Supervisor “Kia ora! Ko Tūhoe, Te Āti-Hau-Nui-A-Pāpārangi me Ngā Wairiki ōku iwi.” Rayleen is new to our team for 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience from her previous role managing first year Halls of Residence at Victoria University, Wellington. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Māori Resource Management and is looking forward to sharing her knowledge of te reo (language) and tikanga (customs) Māori with boarders. With 4 adult daughters and a very spoilt grandson, creating a whānau environment is a priority for Rayleen. She feels privileged to join our team that creates a home away from home for your daughter.

Haruka Yanagidani | Boarding Supervisor Haruka’s QMC journey has come full circle: initially joining the whanau as an international student and boarder, she then joined the boarding staff team as part-time supervisor in 2023. Haruka is studying for a BPsyc Major in Educational Psychology and Minor in German at Victoria University. She is fantastic with all boarders but relates particularly well to our cohort of international students, due to her lived experience of living and learning in a different language and culture. Haruka is originally from Osaka, Japan.

Peggie Barnes | Boarding Supervisor Peggie has worked part time at Queen Margaret House since 2021, and has recently completed her Bachelors Degree in Theatre and Psychology. She loves the arts, outdoors and colourful clothes, and is passionate about connecting with the boarders through fun and creativity.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Your decision to come boarding It is normal to have mixed feelings about leaving home to go away to school. It is not unusual to feel nervous about leaving your familiar surroundings and you may feel homesick for a while as you settle into boarding life. To help settle in, you may want to bring some of your favourite things from home, these may include posters or photos of friends which can be put up on your bedroom pin board. You can bring your own duvet cover, favourite ornament or blanket to help make your bedroom feel as if it is your own.

This can be a very exciting time where you can form new friendships, have new experiences, become more independent, and grow confidence as you become more involved with school activities and boarding life. The Boarding staff are here to support you during this important transition and throughout your boarding life at Queen Margaret House. Queen Margaret House Boarding staff are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of each individual and the smooth running of the Boarding House as a whole. Students and parents/caregivers can discuss any issues with the Director of Boarding or Assistant House Manager.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

A day in the life of a boarder Weekdays Time 6.30am (quiet is expected until 7am)

Activity X

X X

7.25am

X X

7.00 – 8.15am

X X

8.15am

Girls must be in their bedrooms from their scheduled bedtime until 6:30am the following morning Devices can be collected from 6:30am onwards Early breakfast available for those with extra-curricular activities, by arrangement Rising time All boarders are woken up, make their bed and come downstairs for roll call Breakfast available. All Years 7 – 12 students must eat breakfast Any students on medication must report to the office before 8:15am to have their medication dispensed

Duties X

2 students per day (on a roster) spray and wipe the breakfast tables and tidy the dining room before departing for school 2 students per day tidy up the common room spaces on Level 1 and 2

Room check X

Rooms are checked for cleanliness on their dorm’s allocated days. On Wednesdays, boarders strip their beds

8.25am

All boarders have departed for school, the house is closed until 3:30pm

3.30pm

Boarders return from school, must be sighted by a staff member. Optional afternoon tea served in the dining room Boarders are encouraged to take advantage of extra-curricular activities offered by the College Students may take town leave, following all procedures

5:50pm

X X

6.00pm

Dinner promptly begins at 6pm. All boarders must attend unless at a extra-curricular activity (excluding private tutoring, which must be scheduled during prep time) Students are responsible for cleaning their own tables after the meal. 2 boarders on a roster will be allocated small duties to contribute to the house, such as filling up water jugs or sweeping No mobile phones permitted at the dinner table

Pre-order tomorrow’s lunch from the QM Café and prepare for prep time

Supervised prep time in the dining room for Years 7 – 10 school students, and in bedrooms with the door fully open for Years 11 – 13 No music, showering or laundry to be done during prep time If homework is complete, students are expected to do some quiet reading. One night per week, with student leader supervision, students can use the QMC gymnasium during prep time. The year level dean will be consulted to ensure schoolwork is up to date

6.30 – 6.45pm 6:45 – 7:45pm (Years 7 – 9) 6:45 – 8:00pm (Year 10) 6:45 – 8:15pm (Years 11 – 13) 8:30 – 10:30pm

Dinner bell Students meet in the ground floor common room for brief notices before dinner

X X

Laundry locked at 9pm

All communal areas vacated and locked by 10:30pm

Bedtime routines commence Years 7 & 8 – all electronic devices in at 8:45, in own room with lights out (bedtime) at 9:00pm Years 9 & 10 – devices in at 9:15pm, lights out (bedtime) at 9:45pm Years 11 & 12 – phones handed in (can keep laptop) at 10:00pm, in own room and lights out at 10:15pm Year 13 – in own room by 10:30pm.

Weekends We aim to create a relaxed atmosphere where boarders can wind down from their busy week and catch up on schoolwork. During the weekends, there are structured activities organised for boarders. Our Weekend Boarding Supervisors will be available at all times to help and assist boarders. Below is an outline of a typical weekend schedule, this is may change depending on the activities organised.

Time

Activity

7.30 – 9.30am

9:30 – 10:00am

X X

Window for breakfast. Hot items only available between 8:30 and 9:30am. Breakfast is compulsory for Years 7 – 9 Students are allowed town leave from 8:30am onwards, Years 7 – 10 students must ensure they are not missing mealtimes or the weekend activity for their town leave Rising time All boarders not yet sighted by staff are woken for roll call

11:00am

All boarders are now expected to be up and dressed, no student should be wearing sleepwear

12:30 – 1:30pm

Lunch. All students from Years 7 to 10 must attend lunch

1:30 – 3:00pm

Example weekend activity (times vary depending on the activity) Students might go offsite with a staff member or undertake an arts & crafts activity in house. Optional for Years 11 – 13, who are encouraged to attend but may prefer to study, use the school gymnasium, or use their town leave

5:50pm

Dinner bell followed by roll call and 5 minute notices

6:00pm

Dinner starts at 6pm. All in house are expected to attend, no phones permitted at the dinner table

7:00pm

The Weekend Boarding Supervisor may organise a movie night or small activity such as board/card games or ping pong

8:30 – 10:30pm

Bedtime routines commence Years 7 – 9: phones handed in at 9:30pm, in own room with lights out (bedtime) at 9:45pm. Lights out for Year 9 at 10pm

Laundry locked at 9pm

X Years 10 – 13: can keep phones and laptops (unless staff suspect misuse, e.g. staying up All communal areas vacated and all night on TikTok). In own room at 10:30pm, lights out and communal areas locked by locked by 10:30pm 11pm.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Dining at QMH Food and nutrition

Making healthy food choices

Boarding staff place a high priority on providing healthy, nourishing, and appetising meals which are appropriate for growing students. The Catering Manager works closely with the Director of Boarding to ensure all meals are of a high standard and meet nutritional guidelines.

staff encourage students to make healthy choices and control portion sizes. We reiterate the importance of eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Fruit is always available from the dining room and filtered drinking water from each kitchenette.

Snacks Tea, coffee, fruit, bread, and spreads are provided. Students have access to these items from the kitchen area near the dining room. Students also have access to a small kitchenette in the common rooms on each level. These kitchenettes have a microwave, hot water, and utensils. Students should not fill up on snacks before mealtimes.

Food allergies and special dietary requirements Food allergies (gluten free, lactose/dairy free, vegetarian and vegan) will be catered for as required. We ask parents to notify us in writing of any changes to your daughter's dietary requirements.

Dining room conduct X X

X X

Stand and be quiet during grace/gratitude Phones are not permitted at any time and will be confiscated if used Tidy casual clothing and shoes must be worn, no sleepwear to dinner For hygiene reasons, long hair and loose sleeves must be kept held back from the selfserve buffet Students can expect to have some meals seated with friends and others in a seating plan, to ensure boarders are mixing with new people The chef is thanked for the food by every student All students must spray and wipe the table after they have finished, and not leave the table until the last person has finished Dessert must be consumed in the dining room Noise levels must be respectful of others, no shouting If you need to leave, please excuse yourself with staff.

Attendance is compulsory at mealtimes Those who are continually absent or late can expect a consequence such as extra duties or privileges revoked. Dinner begins promptly at 6pm and therefore all students should be in the common room for a brief daily meeting at no later than 5:55pm. Those arriving after this time are noted as late. If a boarder will be late or absent for a meal due to extra-curricular activities, they must notify a Boarding staff member, this will ensure they will have a plated dinner saved for them to heat and eat later.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Meal times Monday to Friday Meal

Time

Where

Dress code

Breakfast

7.00am to 8.15am

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual or uniform

Morning Tea

10.20am to 10.40am

Collect from QM Cafe

College uniform

Lunch

12:45 to 1:40pm

Collect from QM Cafe

College uniform

Dinner

6.00pm to 6.30pm

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Afternoon tea is available in the Queen Margaret House dining room from 3.30pm. Students may pre-order their lunch the day before in the dining hall.

Saturday Meal

Time

Where

Dress code

Early breakfast available

Pre-arranged to accommodate early sports games

QMH dining room

Tidy sports kit

Breakfast

7.30am to 9.30am

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Lunch

12.30pm to 1.30pm Buffet selection available

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Dinner

6.00pm to 6.30pm

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Girls attending early sports games on Saturday will be able to make their own lunch prior to leaving QMH.

Sunday

Meal

Time

Where

Dress code

Early breakfast available

Pre-arranged early breakfast if required

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Brunch

9.30am to 11.30am

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Dinner

6pm to 6.30pm

QMH dining room

Tidy/casual

Health and wellbeing Medications and medical care All new boarders must have all hospital and medical consent forms completed and returned before they arrive at the Boarding House to take up their position. Although it is not compulsory, we do recommend that your daughter is up to date with vaccinations as per the NZ vaccination schedule before arriving at Queen Margaret House. All medical issues will be facilitated through our registered School Nurse during school hours from Monday to Friday. The Director of Boarding and Boarding staff have first aid certificates and training in emergency and non-emergency care. They are available for any after hours’ emergencies and first aid outside of school hours. If students require more urgent or further attention, they are sent directly to the appropriate professional. The cost of medical appointments, pharmacy items, and transport to and from will be charged to your daughter’s account. The College has an arrangement with The Terrace Medical Centre for GP services, however, boarders and their families are able to choose alternative health care providers.

All medicines must be handed in to the School Nurse directly or through the Director of Boarding. The School Nurse will decide what a student may keep in her personal possession, e.g. inhalers. All other medication will be dispensed from the sick bay or Boarding House office as per school protocols. All medication must be written in English, clearly stating the type of medication, the dosage, and times to be given. If the medication does not follow these protocols, we may need to arrange a medical appointment for your daughter to see the GP to get the medication clarified before dispensing.

Infectious illness While there are limited isolation facilities available, there may be times when your daughter needs to be excluded from the Boarding House due to infectious illness. This is a requirement by the Medical Officer of Health. For this reason, we advise that every boarder must have a Wellington based family, friend or guardian that she is able to stay with at short notice.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Medical and dental appointments

Student wellbeing and support

Medical, dental, and any other appointments should be made during school holidays. If ongoing work is required, please make appointments after school so time out of class is minimalised. The Director of Boarding will require notification of appointment times and can arrange transportation if needed.

The school has a strong pastoral care system and Counsellor who is responsible for student welfare. Should a Private Counsellor be preferred, the Director of Boarding can assist with appointments and transport.

Personal hygiene

It can be very difficult for a girl who is far from home to receive bad news by telephone. We urge you, in such a case, to contact the Director of Boarding or Head of School so we can ensure the news is broken to your daughter as gently as possible, and she has staff and/or friends around to support her.

It is vital that boarders know the importance of showering daily, good hand hygiene, changing shirts, underwear, socks, and pantyhose regularly. Students must have a clean uniform, change their sheets, and use clean towels when showering. Boarders bring their own soap, shampoo and deodorant. Lack of personal hygiene in a boarding situation can lead to a girl being ostracised, creating a difficult situation for all concerned. The Director of Boarding will give an informal talk to new boarders on this subject each year, stating what we believe to be a good standard. Any problems will be handled in a caring manner.

Difficult news

Boarders’ feedback Boarders are regularly given the opportunity to feed back on all elements of the boarding experience, including food and activities. Small improvements are made regularly as a result of this. Parents are welcome to email the Director of Boarding with any ad-hoc feedback or comments, there is also a survey distributed at the end of each year.

Feedback and complaints procedure Parent/caregiver has a concern about something happening at the Boarding House

Parent/caregiver communicates the issue to the Director of Boarding

Matter resolved to the satisfaction of both parties

Matter unresolved or has resurfaced? Matter referred to the Deputy Principal

Matter resolved to the satisfaction of both parties

Matter unresolved? Complaint put in writing and addressed to the Principal

Matter resolved to the satisfaction of both parties

Matter unresolved? Complaint put in writing and addressed to the Board Chair

Matter resolved to the satisfaction of both parties

The Chair follows the Board process for handling complaints

All of the College policies are accessible through https://qmc.schooldocs.co.nz/ To view policies enter the username and password. Username: qmc Password: passionate

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Behaviour expectations and responsibilities At Queen Margaret House every boarder has the right to live and learn in a friendly and respectful environment It is expected that students will: X

X X

Demonstrate respect for oneself and others Model and place value on mutual trust Demonstrate cheerful acceptance of difference Be willing to live communally in harmony with others Behave, speak, and listen in a respectful way to boarding staff and other students Be willing to participate and contribute positively to life in boarding

Adhere to boarding rules and expectations

Encourage and support each other

Follow instructions given and take personal responsibility for asking appropriate questions to clarify understanding Use prep time wisely to enhance their own personal learning and that of others.

Students who are unable to meet the expectations above can expect the Director of Boarding or Boarding staff to talk with them about areas of concern. If no improvement occurs the student’s parents will be contacted and the Deputy Principal will be informed. The Director of Boarding may issue a consequence as a result of inappropriate behaviour.

Respectful relationships Positive and meaningful relationships are the key to a happy school environment. When students are happy, they are more likely to learn more effectively, and enjoy what they are doing. Good relationships are based on respect, fairness, honesty and open communication. Sometimes things do not go as we would like and problems occur between boarders. Initially, these issues may start off small and if they are not dealt with properly, they tend to become bigger. Problems at school between students can occur at different levels of seriousness, this means that one type of resolution does not fit all situations. If a student feels uncomfortable or unhappy about how they have been treated by a friend, another student, a coach or a member of staff they need to tell someone about this. Students can talk with a member of the Boarding Staff, their Tutor Teacher, a year level Dean, the Wellbeing Coach, the School Nurse, or the Deputy Principal will be informed about their concerns. These people will assist the boarder to find the right person to help sort out the problem.

Disciplinary responses Queen Margaret College Teaching and Boarding House Staff base their interactions on mutual trust and respectful relationships. However, if a student breaches any of the rules or expectations set out in this Boarding Handbook or Queen Margaret House code of conduct, they can expect possible consequences for their actions as outlined below. Please note the seriousness of the offence will determine which of the following consequence(s) will be administered. Rule breaches are referred to the Director of Boarding who will communicate with whānau about this issue. This is not an exhaustive list but merely a guide to the discipline pathways for boarding students. Re-offending or serious incidents may lead to a disciplinary meeting.

Action Alcohol, drugs smoking/vaping

Bullying

Damage to property – accidental by inappropriate behaviour or deliberate, e.g. graffiti Misuse of devices, including having a secret device

Inappropriate behaviour, e.g. rudeness to staff, persistent lateness, behaviour which brings the College into disrepute

Possible Consequence X

Restorative meeting

Withdrawal from school and/or boarding

Community service in boarding or in the community

Restorative meeting

Programme of education

Privileges restricted or withdrawn for a specified period

Withdrawal from school and/or boarding

Restorative meeting

Remedy any damage caused and pay associated costs

Further consequence if deliberate

Confiscation of misused device (held in boarding office or returned to parents)

Device privileges restricted or withdrawn

Extra duties

Restorative meeting

Extra duties

Leave privileges restricted or withdrawn

Withdrawal from the College and/or boarding.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Queen Margaret House code of conduct All new boarders are expected to read, understand, and sign the QMH code of conduct as part of acceptance into boarding. At Queen Margaret House we take pride in our boarding house, respect and support each other by showing courtesy to other boarders, day students, staff, and the wider community. Therefore I will: X

Speak politely to everyone

Listen when others speak

Behave respectfully.

At Queen Margaret House every boarder has the right to live and learn in a friendly and respectful environment.

At Queen Margaret House we take care of property. Therefore I will: X X

Take responsibility for my personal presentation

Name my belongings, uniform, and equipment

Therefore I will:

Follow instructions given and take personal responsibility for asking appropriate questions to clarify understanding Prepare myself so I am ready and on time for school every school day Use Prep time wisely to enhance my own personal learning and that of others

Demonstrate respect for myself and others

Model and place value on mutual trust

Demonstrate cheerful acceptance of difference

Adhere to the boarding rules and expectations

Be willing to live communally in harmony with others Behave, speak and listen in a respectful way to boarding staff and other students Be willing to participate and contribute positively to life in boarding Encourage and support each other.

Wear my uniform appropriately and with pride

Keep my room tidy

Take responsibility for my belongings and any school equipment I may borrow Tidy up common areas in the boarding house after I have used them At Queen Margaret House every boarder has the right to a safe environment. We have zero tolerance towards bullying.

Therefore I will: X

Ensure I am not involved in any bullying or threatening behaviour Allow no verbal or physical abuse (including cyberbullying) Not disturb the learning nor the recreation of others Be responsible for maintaining a healthy and safe environment at QMH.

Leave procedure Leave rationale All leave is considered a privilege and we work on the basis that trust is viewed very seriously. Leave privileges may be removed if behaviour and conduct expectations are not met. All leave outside of normal school hours is at the discretion of the Director of Boarding. Signing out/in from Queen Margaret House is an important part of the leave procedure. We need to know where our boarders are at all times, and in the event of an emergency that we are able to locate and account for everyone.

The sign out process is a record of absences of leave from QMH and reflects all leave approvals granted. When you are leaving Queen Margaret House you are required to: X

Sign out using the sign out tablet at QMH reception Be honest about times, travel arrangements and destinations Be in either full school uniform or non-uniform, not a mixture of both Sign in on your return and advise on duty staff that you are back in house

Leave requirements When taking leave, boarders, parents, caregivers and hosts must meet the following leave requirements: X

Leave is granted by the Director of Boarding or Assistant House Manager on an application by the parents/caregivers of a student resident of QMH

Leave will not be approved unless the Director of Boarding has received an application. An email application to boarding@qmc.school.nz is sufficient if there is an issue with the app* Boarders must travel directly to the address for which leave is granted and be supervised by those persons nominated on the leave application if they are not parents/caregivers At the conclusion of the leave period, the student is required to travel directly to QMH Parents/caregivers accept that once a student leaves QMH premises for the purposes of approved leave, the student ceases to be the responsibility of Queen Margaret College/ House until they return to QMH at the end of that leave. During the period of leave, the student s deemed to be under the supervision and care of her parents/caregivers The following does not apply to international students: Parent/caregivers also undertake that in requesting leave, in order for the student to spend time at the property of someone other than the student’s parents/ caregivers, that the parents/caregivers are satisfied that the student shall be appropriately supervised at all times. Neither QMH, the Director of Boarding, or Queen Margaret College shall make enquiries into the suitability of any address that a student is granted leave to. It shall be the responsibility of parents and caregivers in requesting the leave, to ensure the student is at all times supervised appropriately and that the persons supervising the student are aware of these regulations, and the requirement that the student must return to QMH as agreed at the end of the leave period granted by Boarding staff.

Students or parents are required to apply for leave using Orah boarding app

* If emailing in a request, please outline the type of leave requested, departure and return times, method/s of transport, and full name of person supervising the boarder. Queen Margaret College | Boarding

Types of leave Weekday leave

Weekend leave (Saturday & Sunday)

Town leave is permitted after school between 3:30pm and 5:45pm (or before dark, whichever comes first). Students must be back at Queen Margaret House by this time. No leave request forms need to be completed for town leave.

Boarders who require leave for one day of the weekend, must arrange this with the Director of Boarding or Assistant House Manager by Thursday night 8.30pm.

Boarders must check in first with Boarding House staff before signing out for town leave.

Trips into town 8:30am

Years 7 – 10 X

New World Supermarket

Years 7 – 10

Katherine Mansfield Park

Years 7 – 8 in pairs or a group of 3 All other boarders

Years 11 – 13

4km south of QMC This includes Oriental Bay, top of Cuba Street and local friend’s homes.

Years 11 to 13 may take up to 4 hours of town leave

After returning from town leave, students of Year 10 age and above may have an additional 2 hours leave if they are sighted by a QMH staff member, and if there is a specific reason to return into town

Students must be in either pairs or groups for these outings

Students must advise QMH staff by Thursday if they are to miss a meal of the same week

The leave boundary is extended to include local friend’s homes, provided the address is given to QMH staff and safe transport methods are organised.

5:45pm Dinner 6:00pm

Years 11 – 12

Year 9 and new boarders (in pairs or a group) Years 10 – 13

If a mixed aged group goes out, the youngest student must return within their designated period. They must not walk home alone. Year 9 to 13 boarders may visit New World for 30 minutes after dinnertime provided it is light outside, not during prep time or before their device hand in time. Students must be out of school uniform and the normal sign in/out procedures apply.

8:30pm

9:30pm

Year 13

Years 7 – 8 (with staff member or student leader)

Boarders must meet the supervision conditions of their year groups as previously stated, students are allowed 3 hours in town and are not to miss QMH mealtimes or the weekend activity

Overnight leave Boarders may take weekend leave from 3:30pm on Friday. It is preferred that boarders return by 5:45pm on Sunday, in order to attend weekly House Hui which follows straight on from dinner. By prearrangement, boarders may return by 8:30pm (no later as it disrupts house routines) or by 8:15am on Monday morning. If House Hui is missed, it is the boarder’s responsibility to catch up on what was discussed via the information board in the living room. To apply and have weekend leave granted, boarders must discuss the following with the Director of Boarding by Thursday night 8:30pm. X

Parents or caregivers must approve the weekend leave otherwise it will not be accepted If the leave is to be spent with anyone other than the boarder's parents, QMH must receive confirmation of arrangements and times by the host family Normal sign out procedures apply.

If boarders plan to return in time for dinner on Sunday evening, they are required to advise the Director of Boarding when requesting weekend leave and be back in the house by 5.45pm in time for dinner at 6.00pm. This is helpful for the Boarding and Catering Staff so they know how many boarders to expect for dinner on Sunday evening.

Special leave requirements Special leave during the weekend (Monday to Thursday) is viewed as an exception. Students may request special leave for a specific event, 3 times per term. Examples include a birthday meal, visiting a relative or an end of season team event. Parental consent and a safe transport plan must be received by the Director of Boarding, no public transport or walking alone after dark. Return time, when there is adult supervision, is the student’s device hand in time. Special leave where there is no adult supervision is at the Director of Boarding’s discretion. This will depend on the account of the transport plan and the age of the youngest boarder there. Weekend special leave may be requested at any time.

Overnight midweek leave Parents may seek occasional overnight leave for their daughters during the school week. This is for exceptional circumstances only and will be granted at the discretion of the Director of Boarding.

Holiday leave Boarders are not permitted to leave for holidays earlier or to come back later than the stipulated times on the term calendar unless the School Principal has granted permission. All requests for early or late leave must be emailed to the principals.assistant@qmc.school.nz.

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Parents, guardians and hosts Leave authorisation procedure if parents are unable to approve leave Where possible, parents or caregivers will always be consulted about their daughters leave but there may be times when you are unavailable to approve leave. At the beginning of each year, parents and caregivers of boarders will be asked to complete and sign a leave authorisation form. This form lists family and/or friends that have been given your permission to approve leave for your daughter in your absence. It also allows you to list family and/ or friends (approved hosts) that you are happy for your daughter to visit, stay with for a weekend or take out on special leave. If we cannot get hold of you or any of your approved hosts then we may have to decline your daughter's leave request. The leave authorisation form can be emailed to you to complete or made available for you to fill out at Queen Margaret House.

Responsibility for boarders while on leave It is the responsibility of parents and/or caregivers to decide the suitability of a host to supervise and care for your daughter. Parents/caregivers are liable to communicate with the host what their responsibilities are while they have your daughter in their care. It is important that people who assume the role of approved host for a boarder are aware of their responsibilities while the boarder is in their care. It will be expected that hosts will be over the age of 25 years old.

Suitability of place or persons when requesting leave The Director of Boarding may need to confirm leave details with the parents, caregivers or approved host, and must be advised immediately if details or circumstances change. We may carry out checks to ensure our information is correct and up to date in regards to our boarders' leave details and whereabouts. Boarders must make sure they have their mobile phones with them at all times, they must be available to contact while they are away on leave from the Boarding House.. The Director of Boarding will always ensure that a boarder’s parents/caregivers can have access to their daughter while present in the Boarding House unless good reason exists under the Education (Hostels) Regulations 2005, (66) to deny contact or access.

Good reason exists under subclause (1) if the parent or caregiver a) Is subject to an order of a court that prohibits contact with, or access to, the boarder (either with respect to the boarder generally, or while the boarder is accommodated at the hostel); or b) Is subject to a warning under section 4 of the Trespass Act 1980 to stay off the premises; or c) Is suffering from an infectious disease, or from some other disease, that is contagious and is likely to harm the boarders if passed on to them; or d) Is, in the opinion of a responsible person, under the influence of alcohol or any other substance to the extent that it is an actual or potential cause or source of harm to the parent or another person or both; or e) Is, in the opinion of a responsible person, exhibiting behaviour that is or is likely to be disruptive to the hostel’s effective operation.

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Clothing requirements Queen Margaret House supplies students with a duvet inner, one pillow, one mattress protector, sheets and one pillow case, coat hangers, and laundry bag on arrival.

Items to bring Toiletries There is a supermarket nearby where students can purchase toiletries and other items. X

Shampoo and conditioner

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Hairbrush/comb and hair ties

Waterproof sunscreen SPF 50

Sanitary products

Prescribed medication in original packaging (no pill boxes) with instructions for use in English Hand sanitiser

Clothing We provide coat hangers and 2 laundry bags for all boarders, however, we recommend name labelling all items with sew-in labels. X

X X

Minimum 3 bras and 8 pairs of underwear 3 pairs of sleepwear (summer and winter) plus dressing gown Slippers or house shoes Plenty of socks, including two pairs of thermal socks for winter/EOTC Gloves, scarf, and hat for winter

X X

Students will store their luggage in their rooms. Space for two suitcases is provided. Please be mindful of this when packing. Parents/guardians are asked to check and limit the amount of clothing which boarders plan to bring to Queen Margaret House.

4 singlets/thermals (optional)

A modest amount of seasonal casual clothing for evening and weekend wear, including a smart outfit for social occasions

Linen

Casual shoes, including sports shoes Lined raincoat, ¾ length or longer recommended, or regulation school jacket Sun hat

Swimwear

Key items 2 small padlocks, one for school locker and one for bedroom

Minimum 2 bath towels

Face cloth

Backpack for day outings

Reusable drink bottle Hot water bottle and cover, or microwave wheat bag

Sturdy umbrella

Quick-dry beach towel

Alarm clock

Hairdryer

Named plate, bowl, mug and set of cutlery – for snacks and suppertime

Duvet cover, 2 of different colours (matching pillowcase optional) We provide a laundry service but students may wish to bring stain remover

School uniform X

Chargers for all devices, including a spare phone charger

Top sheets can be provided on request. Students must bring their own:

Small overnight bag for any weekend leave or outings

Plug socket adapter if travelling from overseas

Woollen jersey

All uniform requirements, including PE uniform View at: www.qmc.school. nz/parent-resources/ uniform/

Logistics and practicalities A-Z This section outlines some of the routines and procedures that are in place to ensure your daughter is safe, healthy, happy, and able to get the most from her time at Queen Margaret House. Items are listed alphabetically for convenience. If you have any questions about these or any other matters, please contact the Director of Boarding.

Awards Positive behaviours and contributions to boarding life are regularly acknowledged in House Hui. Staff and students can nominate boarders for “TRUE” awards: exhibiting trustworthiness, responsibility, understanding, and empathy. Prizes for nominees are awarded termly. Boarding staff and students also arrange informal awards and competitions throughout the year.

Banned items The following may not be brought into Queen Margaret House: X

Alcohol

Any illegal substance

Blu Tack

Candles

Cigarettes

Electrical items with a plug (e.g. electric blankets, toasters, lamps, heaters, mini fridges). The exception to this is laptop/tablet/phone chargers, hair dryers, and straighteners. These items must have been safety checked by a registered electrician, and tagged with the date tested. The Director of Boarding will organise subsequent annual checks for the appliances and a small charge will be made to the student’s College account for each appliance tested.

Glow sticks

Hair dye

Incense

Matches/lighters

Spray paint, methylated spirits

Vapes.

Being in possession of any of the above items without consulting Boarding staff is considered to be a serious offence, resulting in immediate confiscation of the item, and appropriate consequences for those concerned. Drinking, smoking or possession of any of the aforementioned items or other illicit drugs are forbidden. Incidents involving these are dealt with according to College procedures.

Beginning of term Boarders are able to return to Queen Margaret House one and a half days before the start of the new term and must be signed in by 5:45pm on the evening before school starts to attend the first House Hui of the term. Term dates will be advised through the school website and the school newsletter.

Boarders’ events We aim to provide students with a variety of planned boarding events and fun bonding activities during the year. Themed dinners are planned along with buddy and house nights, outings to festivals, and concerts which make the most of our close location to the city. If you are concerned about any of these activities or require additional information, please contact the Director of Boarding. Provided the cost does not exceed $25, it will automatically be charged to the College account. Please advise if you are not happy with this arrangement. Costs over $25 will require preapproval.

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Budgeting It is important that your daughter knows how much money they will have as pocket money. All students need to manage their own money via a bank account. It is recommended that boarders have an Eftpos card. Learning how to make choices about what to spend money on and budgeting is a vital life skill. Although students may need a small amount of cash for day-to-day spending, large amounts must be handed into the Boarding House office for safekeeping. The school does not take responsibility for any cash lost or taken that was not handed in.

Covid protocol The Director of Boarding will constantly review and follow the operating guidelines set by the Ministry of Health for Boarding Hostels, and will stay in regular contact with whānau in the event of positive case/s in QMH. Please contact the Director of Boarding if you have any questions.

Damage to property Any damage must be reported immediately to the Director of Boarding or staff on duty. Bedrooms are checked before students move into a room and as they vacate. Any students involved in damage to the facilities or contents of the Boarding House that is wilful or beyond expected wear and tear will have the cost of the repair charged to their account. Graffiti, hair dye stains (a banned item), and excessive soiling of walls or carpet is not acceptable.

Boarders are expected to change out of their uniform into non uniform, this is expected to be worn in the dining room for the evening meal. Revealing clothes, hats and wet clothing are unacceptable in the dining room, and footwear must be worn at all times. It is essential that all clothing is named. Boarders on leave for the weekend are permitted to travel in non uniform.

Duties Students are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves and therefore are responsible for maintaining the tidiness of their own living space and the Boarding House in which they live. Duties are done on a rostered system and checked daily.

Emergency evacuation Trial fire evacuation drills are practised at the beginning of each term so the students become familiar with the procedure. The common areas will have the evacuation procedures posted on the walls and each bedroom will have evacuation procedures posted on the back of their doors. All exit routes are marked and will be kept clear of any obstructions.

End of term All students are required to leave Queen Margaret House during the school holidays. Students must pack up their rooms and must leave the Boarding House no later than than 1pm on the day after the last day of school term. All arrangements require appropriate notification but students can travel home, stay with friends or attend residential programmes with outside providers. International students can request a homestay.

It is suggested in this type of event that parents encourage their daughters to pay for this out of their own finances.

Boarding House opening and closure dates are listed on the QMC website.

Dress standards

Exercise

School uniform must be kept freshly laundered, be clean, and in good order. In exceptional circumstances, an exemption may be obtained from a member of the Boarding staff. Parents will be contacted by the Director of Boarding if a student’s uniform is not of an acceptable standard or an item needs replacing.

Exercise is paramount for physical and mental health. We encourage our boarders to keep fit, following all necessary safety guidelines. Students must run in daylight hours, in pairs or groups on pre-approved routes. Year 13s may run solo with parental permission, during daylight hours. The College fitness centre is available for use by boarders via key system, with access approved by Boarding staff and supervision provided by either Boarding staff or a Year 13 leader trained in first aid.

Expressing concerns

Jobs

It is important that boarders learn to express any concerns, difficulties or problems (as well as the joys and achievements) to staff so that correct information can be given, and they can be referred on to the right person and their concerns can be fixed. Problems that can feel quite daunting for a boarder are often easily solved when Boarding Staff offer support and clarify information.

Due to the large amount of school and extracurricular activities that students undertake, we do not encourage them to have after-school jobs. While we appreciate that some will be seeking independence, ideally, any part-time jobs should be restricted to weekends so that they are able to meet boarding and school requirements (this includes babysitting). Please feel free to discuss this matter as the need arises with the Director of Boarding.

Boarders can discuss any concerns with a Boarding staff members, a Teacher or their Year Level Dean, School Nurse of the Wellbeing Team.

Extracurricular activities Both boarders and day students receive information about extracurricular sporting and cultural activities available at Queen Margaret College. Sports and cultural registrations are completed on return to school each year. Students are briefed on this procedure, with special care and guidance given to new students around this process. For further information, students can see the Director of Sport or the Head of Performing Arts. Queries relating to participation in activities not offered within the school should be referred to the Director of Boarding. It is important that parents/caregivers are aware of cost associated with students’ extracurricular activities. At times, students will need to use taxis or shuttles for transport and this cost needs to be factored into decision making with your daughter before she makes a commitment to an activity.

Library The College Library is open after school until 4:30pm each day so boarders are able to use the resources available to support their Prep time.

Laptops and other devices Student devices are brought to school primarily for learning and all internet use is subject to the policies and guidelines of the school. This includes use of devices after hours and on weekends. All internet use is scrutinised and monitored by the school IT Department. It is important that students understand this and comply with the Student Use Agreement that they sign at the start of the year. Disciplinary steps will be taken if girls abuse their internet agreement. Although use of social media sites is restricted at school, students in Queen Margaret House will have access at appropriate times.

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Insurance

Mobile phones

As with all property, student laptops are not covered by the school insurance. It is important that you note the serial number and description of your daughter's device for your own record.

Mobile phones are subject to the same policies as other devices in the school in regards to security and digital citizenship.

Students are discouraged from sharing or borrowing devices and are expected to take responsibility for the safe storage and regular charging of their devices. Updates and virus protection should be kept current. A school bag that can safely transport these devices is also an important consideration.

Level

Details

Year 7

Electronic devices in by 8.45pm, lights out by 9.00pm

Year 8

Electronic devices in by 8.45pm, lights out by 9.00pm

Year 9

Electronic devices in by 9:15pm, lights out by 9.45pm

Year 10

Electronic devices in by 9:15pm, lights out by 9.45pm

Year 11

Phones in by 10:00pm, lights out by 10:15pm

Year 12

Phones in by 10:00pm, lights out by 10:15pm

Licence

Year 13

Queen Margaret House is a fully licensed Boarding House and complies with the Education (Hostels) Regulation Act 2005. If you wish to see a copy of the Act or our licence, it will be available from the Director of Boarding.

Common areas closed and students in their own rooms by 10.30pm.

Please endeavour to make planned family call times that work within these time frames.

Laundry Bed linen, towels, and uniform items must be sent to the laundry on a weekly basis. Students will receive two named laundry bags to which they can add their personal washing. These laundry bags will be collected three times a week by our laundry service. Students can also choose to do their own personal washing in the facilities provided. For any personal washing that students choose to do themselves, they will need to supply their own washing powder, stain remover, and fabric softener for personal use. Please make sure that your daughter is aware of any hand-washing requirements (e.g. woollen jerseys). We highly recommend that all clothing and personal items be named.

Luggage and storage Students will store their luggage in their rooms. There is space for two suitcases only. Storage in the Boarding House is limited so please be mindful of this when packing. Parents/caregivers are asked to check and limit the amount of clothing boarders bring to Queen Margaret House.

All phones must be clearly identifiable and named, and girls are required to adhere to the mobile phone rules. Misuse of the phone or failure to follow staff instructions will result in disciplinary consequences such as confiscation or restricted use of the device.

Consideration will be given to International students who may struggle to contact their families due time zone differences. Year 13 students can choose to hand their phone in at bedtime but they are permitted to keep these with them on any night, if they prefer. Year 13’s phones will be handed in if use of the phone interferes with their study or if it is a disruption to staff or other students.

International student mentor

Parent involvement

It is a requirement for every International Student to have a mentor.

We encourage you to be actively involved in the care of your daughter. You are welcome to visit your daughter should you be visiting Wellington. Please also feel welcome to attend school and boarding events listed on the term calendar or published throughout the year.

Having a mentor provides our international boarders who are living away from their home and family with another level of care and security. Our mentors are local to Wellington and can speak the language of the international boarder. The mentor stays in contact with the international boarder, takes them out for events and invites them to meals at their home. The mentor attends all meetings that international boarders are involved in, as well as Parent/Teacher evenings on the parents’ behalf. Parents of our international boarders can contact their mentor with any questions they would like to ask.

Personal property Students must take responsibility for their own property. In a boarding situation, there are a lot of people sharing communal living areas which increases the potential for the misplacement of items. Boarders need to be aware of the importance of taking care of their own property. Everything must be named and care must be taken not to leave personal belongings lying around.

If there is an earthquake or illness that involves the international boarder being removed from Queen Margaret House, the boarder would go to their mentor’s home. The mentor can also accompany their international boarder to medical appointments and airport departures and arrivals.

Borrowing and lending is discouraged. Borrowing without permission is never acceptable and may result in further action being taken. The school takes no responsibility for any loss or damage to students’ property or for any item that they may have loaned to someone else.

Mentors are arranged by the Director of International Students.

Student lost property is not covered by the school insurance policy.

Orah

Personal insurance

Orah is a management tool used by QMH to improve communication between boarders, their whānau and Boarding staff. Based around a webbased and iOS app, it allows us to safely keep track of boarders, whether onsite at boarding, offsite or on school grounds. It also allows parents/ caregivers to create an account and request leave for their daughter, thereby simplifying the process of informing the Boarding staff. Parents/guardians can also review activities that their daughter takes offsite.

All boarders need to have their own insurance to cover personal belongings that may be misplaced or damaged while boarding with us.

Orah is used with any web enabled device, such as a smartphone or laptop, and all that is required is an active email address. Your daughter must also have an account to request leave. Once all parties are signed up, the system links up staff, boarders, and parents/caregivers. New users receive an invitation via email to register and create an account. For more information, contact the Director of Boarding, or email support@orah.com for technical and web/app support.

All boarders have a lockable area they can store their valuables in, however, we do not encourage them to bring expensive items or large sums of money into the Boarding House.

Prep time Prep time is a vital part of the Boarding House routine. In order to minimise disruptions to Prep time, it is important that the girls find the right balance between their study, student activities, and outings. Girls who are unduly absent may have their activities reviewed by the Director of Boarding. Prep is done under the supervision and guidance of Boarding staff. Any request to miss Prep must be cleared with them in advance. We recommend you do not contact your daughter during Prep; this time is for school work and study.

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Prep is held Monday to Thursday 6.45pm – 8.30pm. Students are welcome to continue with study and homework, in their own rooms, after this time if required.

Records Boarding staff should be notified of any alterations in a boarder's personal circumstances, such as change of address, phone numbers or mobile numbers of parents and or caregivers that are overseas. We need to be able to contact you should an emergency arise.

Records of leave, absences and confidentiality All personal information whether electronic or hard copy will be maintained in a secure manner. Best practice will be followed in terms of security, backup, and access in line with the Queen Margaret College privacy policies.

Room change at beginning of each term At the end of each term all boarders will be asked to pack up their rooms. All rooms will be thoroughly cleaned and made ready for the next term. Girls will likely have a change of room at the beginning of each term. This is done to assist integration of year groups in the Boarding House. Storage is limited at Queen Margaret House and any surplus gear must be taken home.

Security External doors are locked every evening by 10.30pm. The Boarding House is locked for security reasons during the school day and cameras are in place to monitor external entrances. Please note that parents and students are unable to access the Boarding House facilities during the school day. If parents want to drop off items for boarders during the school day, they can be left at the school office.

Sporting and recreational activities Our boarders will be involved in sporting and recreational activities outside of school hours and in the weekends. Best practice will be followed in terms of managing the boarder’s health and safety requirements in conjunction with QMC policies and procedures for Education Outside the Classroom.

Transport for sporting and recreational activities Please take transport costs into consideration when your daughter is choosing to take part in sports and recreational activities outside of school hours. Your daughter may need to take a train, bus, taxi or shuttle to get to and from the venue. Queen Margaret House staff are happy to assist with travel logistics. The train station and buses are only a 10-minute walk from the school and Queen Margaret House. Taxis make for efficient and safe transport to other destinations.

Transport and vehicles

Visitors

Due to a lack of parking available on or near the school grounds, boarders are not able to have a car or motor vehicle with them while at Queen Margaret House. We have been advised that under the NZ Land Transport Act it is illegal for anyone under 18 to use a ride share app (Uber, Ola cabs, Lyft etc.) There can be no exceptions as it is NZ law. This is now enforced for all boarders that are under the age of 18 at QMH.

Parents and friends are welcome to visit during the week after school. All friends must be introduced to the Boarding Manger or Boarding House staff on arrival and be signed in. Parents may veto any visitors at any time. Students may have visitors, at the discretion of the House staff, in the afternoon until 5.00pm.

As an alternative we recommend our boarders use the train or local buses to get to and from venues, the school’s preferred taxi company is Combined Taxis as the drivers have been police vetted.

Turning 18 Many students will turn 18 during their time in boarding. While this allows them to participate in a range of activities legally, these activities are still unacceptable while they are in the care of boarding. These include such things as smoking, vaping, drinking alcohol, visiting clubs, and bars. Any participations in such activities will result in disciplinary action. Other age related activities, such as the right to vote, will be supported, and encouraged.

Uber Eats and Takeaways X

Uber Eats/takeaways are available only as a treat, not a QMH meal replacement Uber Eats/takeaways are not allowed between Sunday and Thursday Takeaway treats are only permitted after dinner (between 7pm and 8.30) on either a Friday or Saturday night (not both) All Uber Eats/ takeaways must be approved (in person, not via text to the Duty Phone) by a QMH staff before placing the order Boarders' names are recorded to prevent double-dipping on both nights.

Visitors may only visit the common room on the ground floor, not in the school grounds or student accommodation floors. Students who choose to ignore these requirements will have their visitors refused. Any visitor not meeting our expectations around acceptable behaviour and common courtesy will be asked to leave the premises. In order to respect the privacy of all students, parents and visitors are not permitted access to any of the student bedrooms without express permission from the Director of Boarding.

Weekend activities Most Saturdays supervised activities and outings are organised for all boarders. Times will depend on the activity planned. It is compulsory for all boarders in Years 7 to 10, except those who have been granted leave, to participate in the organised activities. Activities could include rock climbing, indoor bowling, kayaking, movies, mini golf, baking, theatre visits, and trips to shopping malls. Years 11 to 13 boarders are also encouraged to participate. However, their attendance is not compulsory at weekend activities. Provided the cost does not exceed $25, it will automatically be charged to the student's College account. Please advise if you are not happy with this arrangement. Costs over $25 will require pre-approval.

These rules are displayed throughout QMH. QMH staff supervise the process, and boarders know what is expected.

Queen Margaret College | Boarding

53 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand 6011 53 Hobson Thorndon, + 64 4Street, 473 7160 Wellington, New Zealand 6011