St. Francis' College Parents' Handbook 2024/25

Parents' Handbook 2024

/ 25

Thishandbookisdesignedtohelpyouasa reference tool. It is difficult to remember everything you are told at an information evening and this booklet should help you findwhatyouneed.Wehave triedtocover everythingfromabsencestophotography. You can find further information on the Parent Portal and our policies are held on ourwebsite. Do look for updates on our Facebook, InstagramandTwitterpages:

CONTENTS

Welcome from Mr Nichols

The Founding of the College

The Parents’ Association

Senior Leadership Team

Governors

Term Dates 2024/25

Useful Contacts

Head Girl

WisePay

Parental Communications

‘Parent Rep’ Meetings

Meet the Head Events

DREAMS Curriculum

More Able, Gifted and Talented

Scholarships

Welcome from Mrs Foster

Pastoral Structure (Prep and Senior)

Designated Safeguarding Leads

Extra Support

Absences and Late Arrivals

Code of Conduct and Behaviour

Rewards and Sanctions

Uniform (Prep, Senior, Sixth Form)

Photography

Lunchtimes and Food

Mobile Phones

Personal Development (Including RSE)

Competitive Houses

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

FIVE STAR DAYS

Arriving Mid-Year

SixthForm

“St. Francis' College is an amazing place to be. The school makes you feel warm and welcome, and the teachers are so enthusiastic about their teaching. Every day, I can’t just help but smile when I walk into St. Francis’ College.” Lara,Year11

AtSt Francis’,outstanding GCSEandALevelresults happennaturally.Wearenota hot-house;wearea phenomenallysuccessful educationalcommunity.

Welcome to the wonderful community that is St. Francis’ College wherewedream,dareandachieve.

So often, I visit, view websites and read about schools who champion their “ sense of community” It is often included in marketing materials and spouted at Open Evenings without a clear sense of what it means to that institution That is certainly not the case at St Francis’ We are, for a start, not an institution We are certain that in our genuinely warm and supportive community, every student is known, and their dreams and ambitions nurtured Teachers who teach students in Year 7 will teach them again in Sixth Form The relationships between adults and children are mutually respectful, yet friendly and purposeful In short, everyone at St Francis’ is an individual with something to offer and whose contribution is celebrated by all That is a genuine school community

So, how do we achieve something that other schools aspire to do? Small class sizes, a commitment to our core values, excellent teaching, a large pastoral support team, a keen focus on student voice and a plethora of extra-curricular opportunities all enable students and staff to build up their relationships alongside achieving academic and cocurricular excellence At St Francis’, outstanding GCSE and A Level results, alongside excellent university and post-18 destinations, are results which happen naturally We are not a hothouse; we are a phenomenallysuccessfuleducationalcommunity

Our aim is to provide a stimulating education, based on our College values of determination, resilience, empowerment, appreciation, motivation and security, which enables our students to thrive in an ever-changing global environment We seek to build intellectually creative minds through a rigorous and supportive educational experience, with a focus on close individual care We aim to be a community that values the unique qualities of each member and promotessocialresponsibility,self-esteemandself-development

This handbook is designed to help you as a reference tool. It is difficult to remember everything you are told at an information evening and this booklet should help you find what you need We have tried to cover everythingfromabsencestophotography

Do look for updates on our website You can find further information on the Parent Portal and statutory policies can be found online and at Reception

Mr James Nichols Head

THE FOUNDING OF THE COLLEGE

St Francis’ College was founded in 1933 by the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary, a Congregation of Roman Catholic Sisters, founded in 1803 in Belgium by Canon Triest, but which, through its missions, developed international outposts In the UK, the Sisters were already running schools in Devon and Lancashire when the availability of a site in Letchworth Garden City came to their attention The founding Head of the College was Sister Elizabeth, appointed General Directress in 1933 She had been educated in Belgium, France and England and after entering the order had spent time in the missions The Sisters thus acquired the leasehold, from the then Letchworth Corporation, of school premises that had been built for Theosophist students, known then as St Christopher School, but that had been vacant for a period Consequently, the Sisters took over several dilapidated buildings on the site such as, what is now the Middle School, which had to be refurbished The use of the site was restricted in the lease by an educational covenant: this covenant remains in place The Sisters decided to dedicate the new school to St Francis de Sales The Sisters built up pupil numbers, reaching some 250 in the early 1940s They ran the school successfully for some fifty years, but latterly the Congregation decided to reduce their educational commitment in the UK

In 1983 the running of the College was transferred to an education charity, St. Francis’ College Trust, run by a Board of Governors. The College became multidenominational, but continues to be run on Christian principles, which is reflected in the College’s Ethos The College is accredited by the Independent Schools’ Council and is a member of various professional bodies, for example, the Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools, the Girls’ Schools Association and the Boarding Schools Association

The College was acquired by the Inspired Learning Group is 2022 and continues to flourish under the guidance and governance of the Group and its Senior Leadership Team and staff body

THE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

The Parents’ Association is an important part of our whole community and as a College, we really value this relationship The Parents’ Association normally play an integral part in our social events and support us in so many ways We would really encourage you to get involved either as a committee member or as a volunteer They are currently looking for those new to the College to join and to contribute in whatever way you can If you can help in any way, please get in contact

The College contact for the Parent Association is Mrs Julia Spence (Senior Deputy Head, Education).

SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Mr James Nichols – Head

After completing my undergraduate degree in Modern History and Politics at the University of Southampton, I undertook my PGCE and MA Education at the University of Warwick Since starting teaching in 2008, I have been fortunate to work in several schools, predominantly girls’ schools I started my career at the Northampton School for Girls, where I spent five incredibly happy years Whilst I have also briefly worked at co-ed schools, it was quickly clear that my passions lay in single sex education Prior to starting St Francis’ as Deputy Head, I spent five years at Headington School, Oxford, where I was fortunate to benefit from the broadest range of academic, pastoral and operational leadership experiences In addition to teaching, I have been the founder and director of a political education foundation, looking to help schools embed the values of democracy and political participation into the curriculum Outside of school, I am an avid reader, political junkie, jetsetter and foodie I am an incredibly sociable person and thrive in the company of friends and family I am deeply committed to working with the College community and the Inspired Learning Group to take the school to the next level of its development

Mrs Julia Spence – Senior Deputy Head (Education)

I have always been very passionate about sport and the positive impact it can have on individuals, especially young women For this reason, I studied a BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science at university, immediately followed by a Secondary PGCE in Physical Education My passion for education has continued into adulthood and I have strived to develop my academic studies by completing a master's degree in educational leadership and management Throughout my teaching career I have continued with my commitment to sport by playing tennis and netball competitively and still play netball to date I love to spend time in the outdoors, especially long walks with my husband, two young sons and our dog Molly

Mr Robbie Di Rubbo – Deputy Head (Operations)

Having completed my degree in Business Management, I found myself working within the education and leisure sectors across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire Over the years, I have had many different roles across these industries including coaching at Luton Town Football Club Academy, Commercial and Operations Manager for a secondary school and multi-site General Manager for leisure centres

I joined St Francis’ College as I believe in the commitment and development the College has towards its students and staff I am excited to be part of the school’s journey and am keen to help it develop even further

Outside of College,, I am a keen football fan and I enjoy watching Arsenal or my local team at weekends I also enjoy spending time with my family

Mrs Ruth Scott – Senior Assistant Head (Sixth Form and Development)

My childhood was filled with Music I developed my tenacity and musicianship with a range of inspirational teachers and performing or teaching were always my goals After setting up and leading choirs, musical ensembles and a Performing Arts Company that visited local schools, I knew that teaching was my passion It has always been an incredible thrill to see a child develop in confidence and skill It can make the heart burst with pride when a student discovers that they can really fulfil their dreams with hard work and determination I have had a range of leadership experiences and these have included leading Music departments, Performing Arts Faculties, More Able strategies, career strategy and services & assemblies. Outside of College, I am a mum to two boys and my husband and I enjoy taking our family away for adventures in Tom the Camper Van Having visited 40 countries, travel is my passion and I am looking forward to discovering foreign places once again Having worked with Sixth Form students for many years, I am excited to be leading this important part of the College into a new phase I am looking forward to watching them blossom as independent learners, role models and leaders

Mr James Emanuel – Assistant Head (Head of Prep Department)

My teaching career began in London, which is also where I grew up After teaching across Key Stage 2, I then relocated to Hertfordshire and have worked as part of Senior Leadership Teams ever since I have experience teaching in Key Stage 1 and have led Early Years I have worked in both the state and independent sector and I am passionate about making learning memorable for pupils I believe the opportunities and experiences that young people gain whilst in education should be ambitious and inspiring; thus, the DREAMS values resonate closely I have a Masters degree in Child Development and an NPQH (National Professional Qualification for Headship) When I am not at work, I enjoy swimming, tennis and exploring cities, absorbing all the culture and history it has to offer

Mr Dan Carr – Assistant Head (Academic)

After finishing my undergraduate degree in Fre Spanish (Language and Linguistics) at the Univ Southampton, I completed my PGCE at the Univ Cambridge Having started my career teaching Languages at a co-ed school, I have since moved private sector and have developed my career across a range of leading girls’ independent Here, I have been fortunate to gain a vast experience in supporting pupils academica pastorally, holding roles of Assistant Housema Head of French along the way to becoming Head Form here at the College in 2016, prior to recentl into my current role as Assistant Head (Acade true passion is holistic pupil development, and which extra-curricular activities play in this. coached rugby and badminton, led mor expeditions than I can remember, and have led school trips across a range of countries and continents as diverse as Mongolia, Tanzania, and Costa Rica, and have seen the unique benefits these opportunities bring to young people As I grow older, so does my passion for History and visits both personally and with schools to the World War I Battlefields, The Normandy Landings, and Colditz Castle have fuelled this interest, together with taking part in the Lessons from Auschwitz programme alongside Sixth Form students Away from school I am a sports fanatic, both watching and playing several sports At the weekend I will often be found refereeing rugby union matches anywhere across Hertfordshire

Mrs Janey Foster – Assistant Head (Pastoral)

If there's one thing you should know about me, it's that theatre is my first love As a child, I always performed in plays both in and out of school It was no surprise when I chose to study Theatre and Performance at the University of Warwick, which was a challenging but hugely rewarding course Next, I completed my PGCE in Drama with English and began teaching at a co-ed independent school in 2011 I was lucky enough to direct several largescale productions, including Alice in Wonderland, A Midsummer Night's Dream and A Servant to Two Masters It was here that my interest in pastoral care began I loved teaching drama, but also found great joy in developing pupils holistically, preparing them for adult life and making them positive and resilient During this time, I became Head of House, which involved monitoring and championing the wellbeing and academic progress of over 100 pupils

I joined the College in 2023 as Assistant Head (Pastoral) and latterly became the Designated Safeguarding Leading (DSL) It has been a hugely rewarding role and I look forward to the academic year ahead! Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my daughter and husband, improving my fitness and visiting the theatre

Mr Michael Gray – Deputy Head of Preparatory Department

Since completing a History degree at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, I went on to work as a teaching assistant in a primary school before embarking upon a PGCE at the University of Hertfordshire I have been teaching in primary schools across Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire since 2010; teaching in all year groups from Year 1 to Year 6 - having led different areas of the curriculum at different times - including History, PE, English, Diversity & Inclusion I have also spent two years working as an English adviser for Herts for Learning Before taking up this role, I worked as an Assistant Headteacher at a large primary school in Cambridgeshire Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, exercising at the gym or swimming, reading a variety of books (both children's and adults) and I love to visit places of historical interest I am committed to making St Francis’ College (especially the Prep Department) the best place it can be for its children and community

GOVERNANCE:

Vernon Hales, Chair of Governors

GOVERNING COMMITTEES:

Education Committee:

David Tidmarsh, ILG, Chair

James Nichols, Head

Vernon Hales, ILG

Julia Spence, Senior Deputy Head (Education)

Ruth Scott, Senior Assistant Head (Sixth Form and Development)

Dan Carr, Assistant Head (Academic)

James Emanuel, Assistant Head (Head of Prep)

Janey Foster, Assistant Head (Pastoral)

Compliance Committee:

Vernon Hales, ILG, Chair

James Nichols, Head

Carrie Askew, ILG, Head of Operations

Julia Spence, Senior Deputy Head (Education)

Robbie Di Rubbo, Deputy Head (Operations)

James Emanuel, Assistant Head (Head of Prep)

Janey Foster, Assistant Head (Pastoral)

Full Board:

Amit Mehta, ILG, Chair

David Tidmarsh, ILG, Head of Education Committee

Vernon Hales, ILG, Head of Finance and General Purposes Committee

Wrichik Majumder, ILG, Head of Finance

Catherine Dann, ILG, Head of HR

Hemal Lukha, ILG, Head of Nurseries

Jonathan Cobb, ILG, Head of Marketing & Admissions

Carrie Askew, ILG, Head of Operations

James Nichols, Head

Julia Spence, Senior Deputy Head (Education)

Robbie Di Rubbo, Deputy Head (Operations)

Ruth Scott, Senior Assistant Head (Sixth Form & Development)

Janey Foster, Assistant Head (Pastoral)

Dan Carr, Assistant Head (Academic)

James Emanuel, Assistant Head (Head of Prep)

TERM DATES 2024/25:

Autumn Term 2024

Monday 2 September 2024 INSET Day

Tuesday 3 September 2024 INSET Day (New Boarders and Year 12 Boarders)

Wednesday 4 September 2024 INSET Day (Y7 and Y12 Induction, plus current Boarders)

Thursday 5 September 2024 All remaining Years return

Friday 18 October 2024

Half Term (3 15/3 30pm for Prep, 4 00pm for Senior)

Monday 4 November 2024 School opens

Friday 13 December 2024 Term ends (12.00pm for Prep, 12.15pm for Senior)

Open Morning Saturday 5 October 2024

Working Open Morning Friday 11 October 2024

Spring Term 2025:

Monday 6 January 2025 INSET Day

Tuesday 7 January 2025 School opens

Friday 14 February 2025

Half Term (3 15/3 30pm for Prep, 4 00pm for Senior)

Monday 24 February 2025 School opens

Friday 4 April 2025

Working Open Morning

Term ends (12 00pm for Prep, 12 15pm for Senior)

TERM DATES 2024/25: Summer Term 2025:

Tuesday 22 April 2025

Wednesday 23 April 2025

Monday 5 May 2025

Friday 23 May 2025

Monday 2 June 2025

Wednesday 9 July 2025

INSET Day

School opens

May Bank Holiday

Half Term (3 15/3 30pm for Prep, 4 00pm for Senior)

School opens

Term ends (12 00pm for Prep, 12 15pm for Senior)

NB: Students are expected to be in school on the Open Mornings as they are working school days. INSET Day = In-Service Training Day (the school is open for staff training only, not open for students).

USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS

AllmembersofstaffcanbereachedbyphoningReceptionon01462 670511 However, weappreciatethatasummaryofkeycontactemailaddressesmightbeuseful. Consequently,pleasefindtheemailaddressesofpastoralandacademicleadersbelow

SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Mr James Nichols (Head) head@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Miss Catherine Willson (Head’s PA) HPA@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Julia Spence, Senior Deputy Head (Education) jspence@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Robbie Di Rubbo, Deputy Head (Operations) rdirubbo@s-francis herts sch uk

Ms Alessia Ciaravella (PA to Deputy Heads) aciaravella@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Ruth Scott (Senior Assistant Head, Sixth Form and Development) Rscott@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr James Emanuel (Assistant Head, Head of Prep Department) jemanuel@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Dan Carr (Assistant Head, Academic) dcarr@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Janey Foster (Assistant Head, Pastoral) Jfoster@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Michael Gray (Deputy Head of Prep Department) Mgray@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

PASTORAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Mrs Janey Foster (Assistant Head, Pastoral and Designated Safeguarding Lead) Jfoster@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Dr Mary Ryan (Head of Years 7 & 8) mryan@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Tabitha Wilson (Head of Year 9) Twilson@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Claire Couzens (Head of Year 10) ccousins@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Kathy Kelly-Reid (Head of Year 11) kkelly-reid@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Ruth Scott (Head of Sixth Form) rscott@st-francis herts sch uk

Miss Lois Dickerson (Pastoral Support Officer and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) ldickerson@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Julia Spence (Senior Deputy Head and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) jspence@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Miss Gemma Arthur (Head of Boarding and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) garthur@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Michael Gray (Deputy Head of Prep Department) Mgray@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Kat Harper (Head of EYFS/KS1 and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) kharper@st-francis herts sch uk

Ms Lucie Russell (Joint Head of KS2) lrussell@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Amy Bottazzi (Joint Head of KS2) abottazzi@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Kirsty Colley (Nursery Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) kcolley@st-francis herts sch uk

ACADAMIC DEPARTMENT CONTACTS:

Mrs Julia Glanville (Head of Faculty, Head of Science and Biology) jglanville@st-francis herts sch uk

Miss E McHugh (Head of Faculty and Head of History) emchugh@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs H Murphy (Head of Faculty and Director of Senior PE) hannahmurphy@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Alex Garner (Head of Faculty and Head of English) agarner@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Jill Thomson (Head of Maths) jthomson@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr John Murphy (Head of Physics) jmurphy@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Emily Pascoe (Head of Chemistry) epascoe@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Peter Benham (Head of Geography) Pbenham@st-francis herts sch uk

Dr Mary Ryan (Head of Modern Foreign Languages) mryan@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Mrs Kirsty Elliott (Head of Religious Studies) kelliott@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Mary-Ann Bland (Director of Music) mbland@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Tabitha Wilson (Director of Art and Photography) twilson@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Ria Humphrey (Head of Drama) rhumphrey@st-francis herts sch uk

Miss Kate Dickinson (Head of Classics) kdickinson@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Emma Staves (Head of Computer Science) estaves@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Claire Couzens (Head of Food and Nutrition) ccouzens@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Darren Holland (Head of Business and Economics) dholland@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Daljit Lall (Head of Psychology) dlall@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Dominic Griffiths (Head of Politics) dgriffiths@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Armande Fryatt (Head of Individual Needs) afryatt@st-francis herts sch uk

Mr Nandhaka Pieris (Head of English as an Additional Language) npieris@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Mrs Zoe Coles (Head of Careers) zcoles@st-francis herts sch uk

STUDENT LEADERSHIP:

Janel Fung Head Girl 2024/2025

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD GIRL

As Head Girl of St Francis’ College, it is with great pride and enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome to you all Back in Year 10, I travelled from the other side of the world to join the St Francis’ community I was nervous but it would turn out to be one of the best decisions I made At St Francis’, we believe in DREAMS –Determination, Resilience, Empowerment, Appreciation, Motivation, and Security We offer a variety of opportunities to allow students to not only drive towards academic excellence, but also develop as a person

We are committed to creating a supportive environment where students are provided with equal opportunities to participate in various activities and grow as individuals, where we all can ‘dream, dare, achieve’ Teachers here are filled with passion for their subjects and a love for teaching They have genuine care for all their students, motivating us to try our best and step out of our comfort zones Class sizes are small so teachers can focus more effectively on individual students, guaranteeing every student the full support of the College

St Francis’ highlights the importance of extracurricular excellence, from lunchtime clubs and after school fixtures, to school and boarding trips A small sample of our activities include Swimming Club, Netball Club, Vet Club and Orchestra As a member of the swimming club, I am so proud to have represented the College to compete in swimming galas! Numerous music concerts are held for students to display their musical talents and, as a music scholar, I initially feared performing publicly, but the College’s frequent opportunities have significantly boosted my confidence Additionally, we hold an annual prize-giving ceremony to celebrate student achievements across various areas. The trips offered across different year groups come from a diverse list of locations, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Iceland, and France They provide us with the unique experience of trying different food and experiencing different cultures; broadening our perspective of the world

St Francis’ is a vibrant and diverse community We celebrate Multicultural Day and FEM Day, run by Sixth Formers, empowering students to be proud of their different identities I was fortunate enough to take part in Model United Nations conference which is an event where students debate global issues and it strengthens students’ skills to navigate an increasingly interconnected world We also have an annual Recycled Fashion Show and Five Star Week, which provide students with the chance to work as a community and be environmentally conscious

Self-development and enrichment are crucial to student life here at St Francis’, with all areas of the College committed to making the delivering learning beyond the curriculum The UK Mathematics Challenge, Youth STEM Award, UK Biology Olympiad and Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, and the EPQ for Sixth Formers are some of the excellent opportunities offered The Duke of Edinburgh Award is another option to enrich students' lives by cultivating a balance of academic, physical, and social skills It equips them with valuable life experiences, enhances their personal and professional profiles, and fosters a spirit of adventure and community service

As an international student, I understand that transitioning between schools or even countries and adapting to a new environment can be daunting St Francis’ offers a welcoming, nurturing, and secure atmosphere designed to provide the best educational experience We strive to foster a sense of pride and belonging in our community, ensuring that each individual feels seen, heard, and valued At St Francis’, we embrace the spirit of being ‘ one heart, one soul ’

I have truly enjoyed my time at St. Francis’ College. I could not imagine being anywhere else. I trust that I have conveyed how St. Francis’ is the ideal environment for your child to grow into a knowledgeable, capable, and empathetic individual, gaining much more from their journey than simply outstanding academic grades!

PREFECT ROLE DESCRIPTIONS

All Sixth Form students in the College take on Prefect roles in line with their own interests and from this they gain invaluable leadership skills prior to moving on to the next stage in their education The most sought-after roles are those on the Senior School Council - Head Girl, Deputy Head Girls (Academic, Pastoral, Boarding) and School Council Secretary These roles are key to the leadership of our pupil community, as well as offering significant development opportunities for students to work alongside staff, governors and visitors to the College Further to this, we have House Captains who lead weekly House meetings, as well as inspire their Houses to take part in and try and win the many and varied house events across the school year We then have a full range of subject and other key Prefect positions, such as Charities Prefect and Technology Prefect Prefect positions run from the start of January of Year 12 for one year, before handing the baton to the year below

SENIOR SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

Students in Year 7-11 take on leadership positions within their form or within their year group Students can be a Form Rep, Year Rep, Charities Rep, Technology Rep, Anti-Bullying Rep All reps will attend their respective sub-committee meeting that is chaired by the Year 12 Prefect Year 12 Prefects will then feedback to the Whole School Council on a termly basis

For payments that need to be made outside of fees, such as trips and activities, we use an online payment system called WisePay The WisePay system is very easy to use and offers significant benefits:

Payments can be made when the school is closed

Enables you to make cashless payments

Very safe and secure

Your transaction history is available to view at any time

Quick and easy way to find information

Links to WisePay via the College web site

Option to download WisePay app for even greater convenience

All major credit and debit cards accepted

All parents should register on the WisePay Portal, if they have not done so already, so that you can take advantage of the streamlined payment system, covering the cost of all payments excluding termly school fees

PARENTAL COMMUNICATIONS

The College communicates with parents through SchoolPost The platform will send a daily email to parents with a summary of all relevant information in one message This is sent to parents at 5pm each weekday, unless an urgent message is required Parents can login to view previous messages via ‘FireFly’ There is also an app that parents can download

In addition to this, parents will also have access to the iSAMS portal Through the portal, parents can view data held on the College system about their child, as well as information regarding day-to-day school life Each parent will have their own username and password to access College information and data specifically for their own daughter

The iSAMS Parent Portal has a number of features, some of which are outlined below:

School Life: You can see any bulletins, news and the daily school calendar, showing what is happening in the school each day. A staff directory, with email addresses is included, as well as the ability to see copies of letters and other documents given out

Pupil Profile: You can see your child's timetable, attendance, and a summary of reports, half- term grades and exam results This will enable you to track her progress throughout her time at the college

Contact Details: Parents should notify us of a change in contact details for their daughter via a form, re-set password or username This will ensure the College has the correct information in case we need to contact you, especially in an emergency

‘PARENT REP' MEETINGS

There are parent representatives from the year groups across the College (Prep and Senior) invited into the College once a half term to discuss their comments and views with the Head and the Senior Leadership Team The Parent Representative are chosen by the year groups they represent and will bring comments from the parent body of the year group they represent

The half termly meetings are structured in a way that allows parent thoughts and views to be heard and gives the SLT the opportunity to respond to any concerns or queries in a positive way and, in some cases, make improvements to the practices at the College to benefit all stakeholders

MEET THE HEAD EVENTS

Meet the Head Events are a chance for prospective parents to tour the College during the school day This allows parents and students to see what a typical day is like for a student at St Francis’ College Parents are then invited to meet the Head to ask questions over a cup of tea

The dates for the 2024/25 events are below:

Meet The Head, all 9am - 10.30am

19th September

7th November

16th January

6th March

1st May

12th June

Meet the Head of Prep, all 9am - 10.30am

Dates to be announced

Other events offered to prospective families throughout the year:

Senior Concerts and Shows

Individual meetings

Year 5 More Able Maths Workshop

Year 5 Taster Day

Year 6 Taster Day

LOCATION & GROUNDS

DREAMS CURRICULUM

DREAMS are our College values and sit at the heart of everything we do We instill the message that it is important to have dreams, but they do not become reality through magic alone They require determination, resilience, empowerment, appreciation, motivation and security Students in both the Prep and Senior school take part in our DREAMS Curriculum during a double period on Wednesday of Week B

Led by Mrs Mary-Ann Bland, DREAMS is a dynamic and immersive learning experience where students develop skills and values necessary for success in their academic and personal lives Furthermore, the DREAMS curriculum provides pupils with practical, real-world experiences, helping them to thrive in an ever-changing world

MORE ABLE, GIFTED AND TALENTED

We recognise that all students have a range of skills, and some students may have a particular passion or skill in one or many areas We seek to support all students through personalised learning and students who are more able in subjects will be given differentiated work This could include a more independent or projectbased approach that will cover the same content but will develop more advanced skills Opportunities to advance their skills even further are offered through extracurricular opportunities and trips. Students can also choose to join the project that runs throughout the year for scholarship students resulting in a final presentation

SCHOLARSHIPS

There are a range of scholarships offered to students and include academic, music, sport, art and performing arts These are applied for in the January of Prep VI, Year 8 or Year 11 ready for the scholarship to start at the beginning of Year 7, 9 and 12 Students hold their scholarship till the next round of scholarships so a student who achieves a scholarship in Year 7 will need to reaudition for the Year 9 scholarship Students need to evidence their outstanding ability, and this is done through testing (academic), art portfolio, music audition (music/performing arts) or sports trials There is also the opportunity to apply for a Sixth Form award and this is applied for through letter, test and interview

Students take part in a programme of events through the course of the year which may consist of trips, masterclasses, concerts, fixtures and lectures They represent the College at many opportunities and are expected to demonstrate a passion for learning Throughout the year, all scholarship students undertake a project based on a theme and then showcase their work at a Presentation Evening in the summer term

PastoralLife

“Being new at St. Francis' College was very exciting for me. At first, I was a little nervous, but the staff are so welcoming and kind. I've made so many new friends and can't wait for another fun filled year! My favourite part of my first year at St. Francis’ was the FIVE STAR DAYS week - especially after all the hard work with exams!” Inaya,Year10

WELCOME

There are many special aspects that make St Francis’ College a unique and wonderful school This is all underpinned by a genuine community ethos that permeates every aspect of school life The size of the school and the relationships developed throughout the close-knit school community allow students to flourish in a safe and caring environment Academic achievement is enhanced when students are celebrated, well known, safe, and their mental health and well-being is promoted. Developingthecharacterandskillsetofpupilstoexcelwill help them not just in exams but in making positive contributions to the school community and society Developing students into confident, well-rounded individuals who will succeed in the ever-changing global environmentisintegraltothevisionforpastoralcareatSt Francis’College

Each student is assigned to a small tutor group, where they are supported by two dedicated form tutors These tutors interact with their students every day, providing consistent guidance and assistance to help them navigate their academic and personal development Each year group is led by a Head of Year responsible for overseeing both the academic and pastoral progress of the students The Head of Year cultivates the ethos, culture, and identity of the year group by delivering meaningful and inspiring assemblies that celebrate achievements and mark special occasions They maintain effective communication with parents, offering a holistic view of each student’s development, and provide additional support to every student under their pastoral care

This daily support is complemented by a comprehensive pastoral curriculum aimed at fostering self-respect, respect for others, and a strong appreciation for learning Students receive weekly Personal t lessons, developing the skills and knowledge they need sful in the world beyond school Within these lessons, the and Sex Education (RSE) curriculum is also covered, ential information and fostering healthy attitudes towards Our Happiness and Wellbeing Curriculum is taught time, where students are equipped with skills and build their resilience, navigate challenges and become compassionateindividuals

he classroom, students are encouraged to participate in a e of extracurricular activities during lunchtime and after ng Summer term, students take time away from their table to take part in our Five Star Days, a mixture of racurricularactivitiesandexcitingtrips

eatures a dynamic House system comprising four houses, fostering friendly competition throughout the school year. This system encourages a sense of community and camaraderie, with students participating in various events and activities Through this, they earn points for their houses, promoting teamwork and creating a healthy competitivespirit Furtherinformationcanbefoundonpage41

There can be times in life when students face challenges, and we have support readily available through our Pastoral Support Officer, School Counsellor and the School Nurse In addition to being the Assistant Head, I am also the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the College, supported by the Deputy Safeguarding Leads Please refer to the list belowanddon'thesitatetoreachouttoanymemberoftheDSLteamif youhaveanyconcerns.

We are confident that all students will have a rewarding and successful academic year as they flourish as valued members of our wonderful community

Mrs. Janey Foster Assistant Head (Pastoral)

PASTORAL STRUCTURE

TutorsandHeadsofYear(Senior):

Year Group

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Year 10

Year 11

Sixth Form

Head of Year

Dr Mary Ryan

Mryan@st-francis herts sch uk

Dr Mary Ryan

Mryan@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Tabitha Wilson

Twilson@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Claire Couzens

Ccouzens@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Mrs Kathy Kelly-Reid

Kkelly-reid@st-francis herts sch uk

Mrs Ruth Scott

Rscott@st-francis herts sch uk

Form groups and tutors

7EO – Mrs Kirsty Elliot and Mrs Sandra O’Mahoney

7ED – Mrs Annette England and Mrs Kate Dickinson

8MP – Mr John Murphy and Miss Adriana Piacentini

8HY – Mrs Catherine Yates and Mrs Ria Humphrey

9GG – Mr Alex Garner and Mrs Emily Greenfield

9DT – Mrs Debbie Davies and Mrs Jill Thomson

9BB – Mr Peter Benham and Mrs Mary-Ann Bland

10EL – Mrs Magda Ekanem and Mrs Daljit Lall

10BH – Mrs Nic Baxter and Mr Darren Holland

10HV – Mrs Hannah Murphy and Mrs Viji Varghese

11SM – Miss Paige Smith and Mr Sam Mabbitt

10PS – Mr Nandhaka Pieris and Mrs Emma Staves

12PS – Mrs Emily Pascoe and Mr Simranjit Singh

12M – Miss Ellen McHugh

13GG – Mrs Julia Glanville and Mr Dominic Griffiths

ClassTeachers/FormTutors(PrepDepartment):

(Florence Nightingale)

Year 1 (Nicola Fox)

Year 2 (Rosa Parks)

Year 3 (Mary Seacole)

Year 4 (Mary Anning)

Year 5 (Dr James Barry)

Year 6 (Anne Frank)

Year 6 (Jane Austen)

Hostler

Coles

Gray

Jarvis

DESIGNATEDSAFEGUARDINGLEADS:

Responsibility

Designated Safeguarding Lead (Whole School)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Senior)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Senior)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Senior)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Prep)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Prep) & EYFS

Safeguarding Lead

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Nursery)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Nursery)

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Boarding)

Staff Member

Mrs Janey Foster (Assistant Head, Pastoral)

Mrs Julia Spence (Senior Deputy Head, Education)

Mr Dan Carr (Assistant Head, Academic)

Miss Lois Dickerson (Pastoral Support Officer)

Mr James Emanuel (Head of Prep)

Mrs Kat Harper (Head of EYFS & KS1)

Mrs Kirsty Colley (Nursery Manager)

Mrs Natalie Green (Deputy Nursery Manager)

Miss Gemma Arthur (Head of Boarding)

EXTRA SUPPORT ABSENCES / LATE ARRIVALS

At St Francis’ College, we fully recognise that there are times when our students need some additional support Whilst tutors and Heads of Year are always on hand, sometimes students may benefit from seeing the College Counsellor

Should a parent or student wish to talk to the Counsellor, we encourage you to contact the relevant Head of Year who will be able to provide further guidance

Counselling takes place between 8am-5pm on three days per week during the term time Counselling sessions are free and not recharged to the parents

Our Reception Team – Mrs Burton, Miss Sykes and Mrs Collinson – are available to take phone calls about absences from school Please let us know each morning that your child is ill on 01462 670511 This is to let us know whether we have a duty of care for that day and whether your child should have arrived safely in school

If your child has an appointment during school time, please give them a note signed by you that they can show to their tutor and Reception Alternatively, you can email Reception or their tutor

We understand that in exceptional circumstances, it may be necessary for the Head to grant your child leave from school during term time Please make your application in writing to the Head, who will consider each case separately Please note that students are not expected to miss days for holidays or to fly home early at the end of term

Pupils studying at St Francis with Child Student Visas must also request leave in advance by contacting the Head of Boarding, who will communicate with the Head Students should note that should they miss ten consecutive contact points, without having been granted authorised absence, the College must report this to UK Visas and Immigration, which may result in the College withdrawing its sponsorship of the student Examples of contact points include formal academic or pastoral care activities such as lessons, lectures and tutorials, tests or exams, meetings with staff, registration or dates for submission of work.

CODE OF CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOUR

St Francis’ College is a community which expects its members to show kindness, respect and good behaviour to each other It is everyone's responsibility to ensure that the College is a safe, productive and happy environment. A full copy of the Behaviour Policy is available on the College website.

The College takes a clear and firm stance against bullying in all forms It is the aim of the College to develop a climate of openness and to make the consequences of bullying clear to the bully, staff and parents The Anti-Bullying Policy is included in the Policies section of the website and is highlighted to pupils on a regular basis Bullying issues are also addressed in the Personal Development curriculum, through tutor times and through assemblies If parents are concerned about any issues to do with bullying, they should contact the relevant Head of Year as a matter of urgency

REWARDS AND SANCTIONS

At St Francis’ College, we ensure solid relationships are established through a system of rewards and sanctions These are designed to promote a calm, disciplined learning environment in which all students can achieve and be celebrated to their full potential.

Our system of rewards includes:

Verbal and written praise for good work and effort

Merits for both effort and achievement

Annual subject and year group prizes

Posting excellent work in school publications and around the school buildings

Reports to parents which are always worded as positively as possible

The merit system allows pupils to be rewarded throughout the school Merits are recorded and counted on a half termly basis The Pastoral Support Officer manages merit postcards, which are sent home to parents In Years 10 and 11, merits are used as the currency in the termly prize auction The more merits that a student has accumulated that term, the more bidding power that they have

It is the aim of the College to be positive, however, tickets can be given as sanctions for poor work or behaviour The teacher is responsible in the first instance for minor infringements, such as lateness, uniform infringements or late work Regarding late or poorly completed work, the teacher many set additional work or request that work is redone It may be that a ticket is also given at this stage Heads of Year have oversight of the tickets issued in each year group and will endeavour to contact parents when two have been issued A third in one term will result in a lunchtime detention A letter is sent home to parents

More serious infractions, such as unacceptable physical or verbal behaviour towards others (staff and students), damage to College property, missing lessons or serious academic infringements will be dealt with by the Assistant Head (Pastoral) or another member of the Senior Leadership team This can result in after school detentions, Saturday detentions, internal isolation or external suspension The most serious cases, such as the possession of drugs or other harmful items, can result in expulsion and referral to the police

UNIFORM

Full College uniform is to be worn by all students up to the Sixth Form, where students can wear their own appropriate clothes We expect all students to look smart and take a pride in their appearance Skirts should be worn to the knee and uniform will be checked regularly by tutors and Heads of Year Tickets will be given to students who do not follow the rules on uniform If you have any questions about school uniform, please contact the relevant Head of Year

The school uniform is available from our supplier:

School Blazer

Nene House

Nene Valley Business Park

Peterborough PE8 4HN

Tel: 03337 000703

https://www schoolblazer com

Uniform Expectations

All clothing, footwear and PE equipment should be labelled or marked with your name

Jewellery

No jewellery is permitted, with the following exceptions:

Earrings: one pair of studs may be worn, one in each ear No hooped or drop earrings may be worn for Healthy and Safety reasons;

A small religious symbol on a simple chain/band, worn round the neck or wrist

No body piercings or tattoos are allowed

School Blazer

The school blazer must always be worn outside the classroom

Make-Up

If make-up is worn, it should be subtle and natural Indiscrete make-up such as false eyelashes, heavy foundation or strong lip colour is not permitted

Nails

Nail varnish or acrylic/false nails are not permitted

Hair

Hair must not be dyed or coloured, unless to a natural colour

In Years 7, 8 and 9, students must have their hair tied back with a hair tie or clip This can be in a ponytail or half up half down

Hair may be worn down in Year 10 and 11

For Health and Safety reasons, hair must be worn up in PE, Games, Food & Nutrition and Science practical

Kilts

Kilts should be around knee-length and should not be rolled at the waist.

Socks/tights

Students should wear black/navy/opaque tights or black/navy knee or ankle socks White or fluffy socks are not permitted Tights must not have ladders or holes in them

Shoes

Shoes should be black and polishable Trainer-style shoes, high heels or boots are not permitted

If there is a medical reason to wear other shoes, parents must email form tutors

School Bag

Students may use any school bag, provided it is fit for purpose and named

PE Kit

Students must not come to school in their PE kit Students should not be wearing their PE kit to and from school (the only exception being if they have a sporting activity after school)

Home Clothes

Uniform must not be combined with home clothes, such as hoodies

Uniform Guidelines

Schoolblazer

Schoolblazer are an online retailer If you do not have internet access Schoolblazer can take telephone orders on 0333 7000 703

All garments arrive fully name-tagged, at no extra charge

Schoolblazer build a bespoke site for the College; allowing simple navigation to the correct uniform and sportswear for your child

Uniform is delivered via courier service, either to the home or to an address of your choice, with a normal turnaround of 4 to 5 days for name-tagged garments, but a firm promise of all deliveries within 8 working days

Urgent garments which do not require name-tagging can be shipped in 2 days

Sample sizes are held in the College and can be tried on before ordering online These items are available to view in the Second Hand Uniform Shop

Please visit www.schoolblazer.com and https://schoolblazer.com/how-to-shop

Second Hand Uniform Shop

The second-hand uniform shop is run by the Parents’ Association and is open every Thursday 8-9am during term time It is situated in the main senior school entrance foyer on Broadway

The uniform shop can be contacted at: uniformshopsfc@gmail.com

PLEASE ENSURE THAT ALL UNIFORM AND OTHER POSSESIONS ARE CLEARLY LABELLED WITH YOUR CHILD’S

NAME The school cannot be responsible for lost items

Please use this Key when referring to the uniform lists on the following pages :

SB= compulsory buy from Schoolblazer

HS= You can purchase from High Street

SB & HS= you can purchase from either

Pre School-Uniform

Winter uniform: September – Easter holidays

EITHER OR

Tartan tunic SB

White polo shirt SB & HS

Navy cardigan with bottle stripe SB

Navy tights/navy knee length socks HS

Hat, scarf & gloves, any colour or design HS

Water bottle HS

Summer uniform: after Easter holidays – July

White polo shirt SB &HS

Navy jogging bottoms SB & HS

Navy crested sweatshirt SB

Knee lengths navy socks HS

Hat, scarf & gloves, any colour or design HS

Water bottle HS

EITHER OR

Green and white striped short sleeved dress SB

Navy cardigan with bottle stripe SB

Ankle or knee length white socks HS

Baseball cap, any colour or design HS

Water bottle HS

White polo shirt SB & HS

Navy PE shorts SB

Navy crested sweatshirt SB OR navy cardigan

Ankle or knee lengths white socks HS

Baseball cap, any colour or design HS

Water bottle HS

You do not need to purchase both sets of winter and summer uniforms listed above, it will depend on you and your child’s preference

Shoes

Sensible strong black leather shoes preferably with Velcro fastening HS

Sports trainers with Velcro fastening any colour (no fashion trainers i e Converse ) HS

Wellington boots for wet weather and outdoor activities, in bad weather wellingtons may be worn to and from school HS

Coat

Navy stormproof jacket (optional) SB OR any other coat any colour or design HS

Swimming

Any swimsuit or swimming trunks HS

Swimming cap HS

Goggles HS

Towel HS

School Bags: New and only available from the second-hand uniform shop from £10

St Francis’ green crested book bag

St Francis’ green crested PE bag

St Francis’ blue crested swimming bag

St. Francis’ College Preparatory Department Uniform List for Reception, Years 1 & 2

Winter uniform: September – Easter holidays

Navy stormproof jacket SB

Prep navy blazer SB

Tartan tunic OR navy trousers (you will not need to purchase both; it will depend on you and your child’s preference )

SB

White polo shirt SB & HS

Navy cardigan with bottle stripe SB

Navy tights/knee length socks HS

Navy crested fleece beanie hat (optional, but if purchased must be from Schoolblazer)

Navy fleece scarf (optional) SB & HS

Navy gloves (optional) HS

Water bottle HS

Summer uniform: After Easter holidays – July

Prep navy blazer SB

Green and white striped short sleeved dress SB OR white polo shirt SB & HS with navy tailored shorts (not sport PE shorts) SB & HS

Navy cardigan with bottle stripe SB

Plain white ankle or knee length socks HS

Navy crested baseball cap for playtime in sunny weather SB

Water bottle HS

Shoes and Bags

Sensible strong black leather shoes – suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear in winter and summer No high heels, boots or slip on HS

In bad weather wellingtons and boots may be worn to and from school HS

Years 1 & 2 only: plain navy blue, black or green rucksack (optional) HS

St Francis’ green crested book bag (new and only available from the second-hand uniform shop from £10)

St Francis’ green crested PE bag (new and only available from the second-hand uniform shop from £10)

St Francis’ blue crested swimming bag (new and only available from the second-hand uniform shop from £10)

P E and Swimming

Navy PE shorts SB

Navy crested polo shirt SB

Navy crested sweatshirt SB

Navy jogging bottoms SB & HS

Sports trainers with Velcro fastening are helpful any colour (no fashion trainers i e Converse ) HS

White ankle socks HS

St Francis’ swimming costume (new and only available from the second -hand uniform shop from £17)

St Francis’ Swimming cap (new and only available from the second -hand uniform shop from £6)

Goggles SB & HS

Towel HS

Hair

All students are expected to have clean and tidy hair with long hair tied back Ribbons and hairbands should be black, navy blue or dark green

Winter uniform: September – Easter holidays

Navy stormproof jacket SB

Prep navy blazer (year 6 only can purchase a senior blazer to wear into senior school ) SB

Tartan tunic SB OR navy trousers SB (you will not need to purchase both; it will depend on you and your child’s preference )

Year 6 only: As above OR tartan kilt SB worn with white blouse with revere collar SB & HS (long or short sleeves)

White blouse with revere collar (long or short sleeves) SB & HS

Navy cardigan with bottle stripe SB

Navy tights/knee length socks HS

Navy crested fleece beanie hat (optional, but if purchased must be from Schoolblazer ) SB

Navy fleece scarf (optional ) SB &HS

Navy gloves (optional) SB &HS

Water bottle HS

Winter uniform: September – Easter holidays

Prep navy blazer (year 6 only can purchase a senior blazer to wear into senior school ) SB

Green and white striped short sleeved dress SB OR white blouse with revere collar (long or short sleeves) SB &HS with navy tailored shorts (not navy PE shorts) SB & HS, you will not need to purchase both; it will depend on you and your child’s preference

Year 6 only: As above OR tartan kilt SB worn with white blouse with revere collar SB & HS (long or short sleeves)

Navy cardigan with bottle stripe SB

Plain white ankle or knee length socks HS

Navy crested baseball cap for playtime in sunny weather SB

Water bottle

Shoes

Sensible strong black leather shoes – suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear in winter and summer No high heels, boots or slip on HS

In bad weather wellingtons and boots may be worn to and from school HS

P E and Swimming

Navy skort OR navy shorts SB

Navy crested games shirt SB

Navy crested midlayer (optional) SB

Navy crested activity jacket SB

Navy crested training pants SB OR navy crested fitness base layer leggings SB &HS

Navy crested base layer top with SFC logo (optional) SB OR navy base layer top (optional) HS

Navy games socks with green turnover SB AND white ankle socks HS

Sports trainers any colour (no fashion trainers i e Converse ) HS

Football boots HS AND Shin pads HS

Mouthguard (for Years 4 and upwards) SB & HS

St Francis’ swimming costume (new and only available from the second -hand uniform shop from £23 50)

St Francis’ swimming cap (new and only available from the second -hand uniform shop from £6)

Goggles SB & HS

Towel HS

Mesh T-shirt for poolside in Swimming Galas (optional, new and only available from second hand uniform shop)

School Bags

St Francis’ crested PE holdall (new and only available from the second-hand uniform shop from £23 50)

St Francis’ blue crested swimming bag (optional, new and only available from the second-hand uniform shop from £10)

Plain navy blue, black or green rucksack HS

All students are expected to have clean and tidy hair with long hair tied back Ribbons and hairbands should be black, navy blue or dark green

Regulation Uniform List for Senior School pupils (Years 7-11)

All students, both Boarding and Day are requested to have the following items of clothing:

School Uniform

** Kilt in “Stuart Hunting” Tartan - length should be no more than 10cm above knee

** Trousers available (from school supplier only) in navy blue

White blouse with revere collar (long or short sleeves can be bought from Schoolblazer or high street )

Bottle green crested V-neck jumper

Navy crested sleeveless jumper (optional for summer term only)

Navy blue blazer with College badge

Winter and spring term :Navy socks or navy/black opaque tights , long navy socks may be worn until October half term and then students must be in navy/black tights

Summer term only: White socks – ankle length or natural coloured or navy/black tights

Leather black shoes – sensible school shoes – no heels more than 2 5cm

Navy College stormproof jacket or plain black or navy coat

Gloves/scarves/hats in a plain dark colour are acceptable

Rucksacks for Senior School can be of any colour and design

** Kilts/Trousers – you do not need to purchase both; it depends on you and your child’s preference as to which she will wear.

Winter term: September – Easter holidays. Summer term: After Easter holidays – July

PE Uniform (supplied by Schoolblazer)

Navy crested games shirt

Navy crested activity jacket

Navy crested training pants

Shorts or skort

Navy crested midlayer (optional)

Navy games sock with green turnover

Navy crested fitness leggings and base layer top with SFC logos (optional Non-branded navy blue fitness items can be purchased from a sports retailer)

PE Uniform (not supplied by Schoolblazer)

St Francis’ swimming costume (new and only available new from Second Hand Uniform Shop from £17)

St Francis’ swimming cap (new and only available new from Second Hand Uniform Shop from £6)

Mesh T-shirt for poolside at Swimming Galas (optional, new and only available from Second -Hand Uniform Shop from £15 50

Towel

Goggles

Sport trainers – no fashion trainers

White sports socks

Hockey shin pads (Autumn/Spring Term)

Hockey stick (Autumn/Spring Term)

Football shin pads (Autumn/Spring Term)

Football boots (Autumn/Spring Term)

Tennis racquet (Summer Term)

Astroturf shoes (optional extra)

St Francis’ College PE holdall (new and only available from Second Hand Uniform Shop from £23 50)

Hockey Mouth guard – Mouth guards can be made by your family dentist, or a mouldable mouthguard can be purchased from good sports shops or from an online supplier such as Opro Students must wear their mouth guard and shin pads whilst playing hockey.

It is important that students should present a good image at all times, particularly when in uniform Students must wear full school uniform to and from College, no part uniform should be worn (mixture of school uniform and non-school uniform)

Other Items

Apron for Food and Nutrition lessons (All Years 7-9 Year 10 and Year 11 if taking Food and Nutrition GCSE)

Additional regulations

Jewellery

Small plain gold or silver stud earrings (one per earlobe)

Watch

Jewellery worn by pupils for religious reasons is acceptable

Hair

All students are expected to have clean and tidy hair

Year 7 to 9 – hair should be tied back at all times

All students should have their hair tied up for health and safety reasons in the following subjects: Science, PE, Food and Nutrition.

Extreme cuts and styles are not permitted

Hair should be of a natural colour

Makeup

Makeup is not permitted

Nail varnish and nail extensions should not be worn for school

Sixth Form:

In the Sixth Form at St Francis’ College, students are not required to wear school uniform Nonetheless, we have high expectations of all students as ambassadors for the College Sixth Form students are role models to our younger students and as such we expect them to dress smartly, reflecting their attitude towards their studies

The Sixth Form dress code is:

Smart trousers, a skirt or a dress, which should be of a dark colour These should not be ‘hugging’ items

A smart jacket

Trousers should be tailored and not tight-fitting Leggings, jeggings, shorts, and denim are not permitted

Short skirts are not permitted It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they do not ‘ride up ’ As a guide, if you stand with your hands down by your side, your skirt must be longer than this

Students may choose the colour of their blouse or top, but they must always remain modest; sleeveless tops or those with spaghetti straps are not permitted, and bra straps and midriffs should not be visible

Sweatshirts, hoodies, and any jumper or t-shirt with a logo are not appropriate

Students may wear make-up and jewellery, but it should be kept subtle

Ear piercings are permitted but should be subtle All other facial and body piercings are not deemed appropriate

Tattoos of any kind are not permitted

Hair styles should be similarly tidy and subtle, and hair must be of a natural colour

Shoes should be smart, polishable, and of a dark colour Trainers (Nike, Adidas, Reebok etc ), Vans, and Converse are not permitted

For PE and Games lessons, students may wear non-College regulation sportswear, but it should be clearly recognisable as sportswear, and not beachwear

We hope this clarifies the expectations of the College, but the Head of Sixth Form will be happy to answer any queries If any member of staff deems an item of clothing as inappropriate and not in keeping with this code, the student should not wear it to College again

Should students fail to support the uniform or dress code, consequences will be applied as per the College’s Behaviour Policy

PHOTOGRAPHY

The College works with Splaat Photography, a Hertfordshire-based company that specialises in photography in independent schools. Each year they take approximately half a million photographs across the schools they work with Working with Splaat means that significantly more occasions will be captured via photo or film than we have ever been able to capture before, and parents will be able to see those images free of charge We believe that the Splaat services offer added value to parents and give parents the option to create a permanent visual record of their child’s time at St Francis’ College

Splaat will be in school to take photographs and videos of many events, including:

School portraits

Most school plays / drama performances

Musical recitals and concerts

Sports matches

Sports teams

Lessons in classrooms

Extra-curricular events such as Multicultural Day, the Recycled Fashion Show

On some occasions, such as school plays and music recitals, Splaat will also be recording professional videos

And many more

How do I register with Splaat?

There are just a few steps to take:

-Register as soon as possible Registration is free of charge, and once registered you can view every new photo of your child and short highlights of videos without any obligation to purchase.

-To register, please use using the following link: https://www splaatphoto co uk/information-forschools/st-francis-college

Can anyone view the photos / videos?

Splaat has developed facial recognition software which addresses the safeguarding requirements of St Francis’ College Splaat Photo’s systems have been audited by a data protection solicitor and are GDPR compliant Facial recognition software ensures that only photos and videos that feature your child are delivered into your secure online gallery Each photo and video can only be viewed by a parent and only when they have registered Photos of children whose parents have not been registered cannot be seen by anyone If more than one child features in a photo (eg child A and child B), then the photo of child A can only viewed by the parents of Child A if the parents of child B have also registered and consented Parental consents are carefully tracked to ensure that all parental rights and wishes are respected

Should you require any further information, please contact Greg McClarnon at Splaat on greg@splaatphoto co uk

PLEASE NOTE: if you have previously opted out of photographs and videos being taken of your child, by advising the school in writing, then we will ensure no photos or videos include your child until notice is given to the contrary

To ensure that every student has the chance to sample the full variety of experiences available at the College, we are active in promoting awareness of school trips, sporting successes, theatre, music and dance productions, awards ceremonies and other events that our students enjoy Within the College, photographs and news of events and excursions are typically made available via newsletters, notice boards, television screens and the College’s internal communication systems We also share such photographs and news with the wider community of school supporters including parents, alumni and prospective parents, using a range of media channels We also live stream certain events and share some imagines with relevant organisations, for example the Girls’ School Association, Boarding Schools’ Association and Independent Schools’ Council We believe that this is the best way to show the strength of our College community

Our policy for taking, using and storing images includes use of images by the media. Where the media is invited into the College to take photographs, or provided with images, we will also seek to contact parents and students before giving final consent It is also policy for only the first names of students to be used in any external use of media

Parents do have the right to withdraw permission for pictures to be taken of their child and/or used in school communication We are unable, however, to mix and match permissions For example, we cannot allow permission for sporting events but not for social media

Parents are welcome to photograph and video their own students in school activities where circumstances permit, but if the images feature other students, then they should not be uploaded onto social media sites without consent You should also be mindful of copyright restrictions for events.

LUNCHTIMES AND FOOD

Care is taken to ensure that students have a healthy and balanced diet, and we ensure that diverse cultural backgrounds and nutritional needs are respected and catered for Our breakfast, lunch and dinner menus change regularly to ensure that there is both choice and variety for day students and boarding students to enjoy

Boarders’ Breakfast takes place every day at 7 45am A wide selection of items is provided, including cereals, fresh fruit salad, yogurts, juice and hot beverages Boarders can pick between a continental breakfast and a variety of hot items

Lunch is served in the Dining Room There is a choice of hot dishes, vegetarian and vegan meals, jacket potatoes, salad bar and hot and cold desserts, including yogurts and fruit

Located in the Sixth Form Centre, Sixth Formers also have access to their own Café. This provides a social base for the Sixth Form students to gather and enjoy a choice of hot beverages, healthy snacks and other options The Café is open to students from across the Senior School at breaktimes

In the evenings, Boarders’ Supper enables the boarding community to come together and enjoy further varieties of food for dinner

If you wish to provide feedback on your experience of catering at St Francis, please contact the Deputy Head (Operations) (rdirubbo@st-francis herts sch uk)

MOBILE PHONES

St. Francis' College is a mobile free school. We are committed to fostering an environment that prioritises learning, social interaction, and personal development As part of this commitment, we have chosen to implement a mobile phone-free policy for our students This decision is based on extensive research and our dedication to providing the best possible educational experience

If parents choose to send their child into the College with a phone for safe travel to and from the College, the following must be observed:

Prep School

All students should hand their phone to Prep Reception on arrival at school Students may collect their phones as they leave at the end of the school day

Senior School

All students in Year 7-11 must lock their phone in their locker upon arrival at the College Form Tutors will remind students during AM registration Phones must remain locked away for the entirety of the College day Should students have the need to contact home, they must seek permission from their Form Tutor or Head of Year who will supervise contact Alternatively, students can go to Broadway Reception at break time or lunchtime and the Admin Team will support them to contact home

Should parents need to contact students during the school day (due to changes in travel arrangement or an emergency), please call the office number or email the Admin email address and the College will ensure the message is given to your child

If students are found with their phone on the College premises, the phone will be confiscated and a sanction will be given to the student Students may collect their phone at 16:00

By creating a mobile phone-free environment, we are ensuring that our students have the best opportunity to succeed academically, develop strong social skills, and grow into well-rounded individuals We appreciate your support in upholding this policy and helping us create an optimal learning environment for all students

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

(INCLUDING RSE)

Personal Development provides learning opportunities and experiences for the personal development of young people to equip them with the skills and attitudes needed to react positively to the pressures of modern life, now and in the future. Personal Development equips pupils to live healthy, safe, productive, capable, responsible and balanced lives It encourages them to be enterprising and supports them in making effective transitions, positive learning and career choices and in achieving personal and economic wellbeing

Personal Development is delivered in a single 55minute lesson per week for all year groups from Prep through to Year 13 Personal Development is subsequently supported by tutor time, assemblies and other extra-curricular opportunities for students

The College recognises that Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is a statutory requirement, and it was implemented from September 2020 into Personal Development lessons

Most of a pupil’s informal sex and relationships education occurs within the family The College’s programme complements and builds on this in cooperation with parents and guardians Parents have a right to request to withdraw their child from sex education delivered as part of RSE in secondary schools, which, unless there are exceptional circumstances, should be granted up to three terms before their child turns 16 At this point, if the child themselves wishes to receive sex education rather than be withdrawn, the College will make arrangements for this to happen If a parent wishes to withdraw their child, they need to write to the Head in the first instance

There is no right to withdraw from Relationships Education at secondary level as the contents of these subjects – such as family, friendship, safety (including online safety) – are important for all students to be taught

COMPETITIVE HOUSES

There are four College houses at St Francis: Artemis, Athene, Hera and Selene. All students and staff belong to a House, and this is given on arrival at the College. Each House is led by a member of staff and Sixth Form Prefects, with support from other teaching staff

Artemis Mrs Katie Crossman

Athene

Miss Paige Smith

Hera Miss Adriana Piacentini

Selene

Mrs Abi Beynon

In the Senior School, House meetings are held every Thursday morning Senior and Prep students come together in their Houses for a meeting on Wednesday Week A Meetings consist of different inter-House activities and/or preparation for a major House competition, such as House Music or Sports Day

The House system is designed to encourage students to mix in wider age and friendship groups This is furthered by our College Buddies system, where pupils from different year groups meet at least once a term to discuss a variety of topics This peer mentoring system allows students to provide and receive support and advice from students who share their school experience

House Head of House

EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

The College passionately believes in the importance of learning and skill development outside of the taught curriculum These ‘soft skills’ are nurtured through involvement in clubs, activities and societies There is a wide range of lunchtime clubs for students to join and we encourage all students to make full use of this offer Students in Years 7 and 8 are mandated to attend two lunchtime clubs every week If students have an idea for a new club, they can discuss this with the relevant Head of Year who will do their best to support its establishment, where right to do so

After-school clubs, activities and societies take place after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 10pm-5 10pm All students are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities to find new passions Some clubs are run by teaching staff and others will be run by Sixth Form Prefects There is also the opportunity for students to use the Library until 6 00pm to complete homework in a quiet working environment before travelling home All students staying for after-school clubs are entitled to a free meal before being collected by parents at/before 6 00pm All students must be off school site, unless boarding, by 6 00pm

FIVE STAR DAYS

Towards the end of the Summer Term, the entire College – Prep and Senior – comes off timetable to have a week of fun-filled trips and activities. These engaging days are a real highlight of the school year and have previously involved inflatable games, river punting, space hopper challenges and many other exciting opportunities Trips have previously included the Jurassic Coast Aqua Sports weekend, Oxford University and the Harry Potter studios The College also offers a wide range of overseas trips

The FIVE STAR DAYS of the 2024/25 academic year will take place between Monday 23 June to Friday 27 June Although this is after Year 11 and Year 13 have left, they are warmly invited to come back and join in the fun

The FIVE STAR DAYS booklet, outlining all the different options available for students to take part in, is released in the Spring Term

ARRIVING MID-YEAR:

We fully appreciate that many students may join the College at various stages of the academic year For those coming mid-year, we understand that this can be a nervous time That is why we ensure that all students who join are given two buddies to support their transition into our school community These buddies will introduce you to lots of new friends, make sure that you get to your lessons at the right time and help you become familiar to how things work at St Francis’ In addition to this, your tutor and Head of Year will also check in with you regularly to ensure that you are happy, successful and thriving It doesn’t take long for our new students to feel right at home at St Francis

THENURSERY

“What a beautiful nursery! Couldn't recommend highly enough. The staff are upbeat and energetic every single day and our daughter is happy to go here. When your child skips into nursery you know they're doing an amazing job. Our daughter has come on leaps and bounds since going here and continues to learn not just play. The staff listen to any concerns or queries. Just an all round brilliant nursery ”

St.Francis’NurseryParent

I have always had a passion for childcare and after owningmyownnurseryforalmost10years,Ijumpedat the opportunity to head up the opening of St Francis’ College Nursery Working to support children and families to become more confident to step into school lifeissoimportanttome.

Ihaveagreatteamworkingwithmeandfeelverylucky to be a valued part of the College The Nursery is developing and growing week by week and the testimonials from parents and the smiles on the children’sfaceskeepmestrivingtosucceedeachday

ST.FRANCIS’ COLLEGENURSERY

Children are at the heart of all that we do, and we are committed to ensuring that all our children have the best possible start in life Happy, secure children will make the most of their early play experiences and our staff feel privileged to be part of their learning And of course, safeguardingisparamount!

St Francis’ Nursery offers exceptional childcare and learning for boys and girls from 3 months to 4 years, within the heart of St Francis’ College Everything about the Nursery is designed to enable children to flourish; from our innovative curriculum to the inspiring and nurturing environmentandfocusonsustainability,wearereimaginingEarlyYears Education

Our dedicated Early Years area is a truly wonderful, bespoke place for young children to explore, investigate, create, and discover through play At St Francis’ Nursery we support all areas of child development through play, both inside and out We continually support and encouragethechildrentobehappyandconfident

I would be delighted to answer any questions you may have about your child joining the nursery. Please get in touch with me directly via kcolley@st-francishertsschukorcall01462 670511.

Mrs Kirsty Colley Head of St. Francis’ College Nursery

WHY ST. FRANCIS’ NURSER

Located in the heart of Letchworth Garden City, w only a few minutes’ walk from the railway station

We provide care and education 51 weeks a year f 7 30am to 6 30pm

A pricing structure that offers choice to families

Children from 3 months old up to 4 years can le through exciting and stimulating environments

We’re the “ nursery of choice” for parents looking exceptional childcare and education on a school with a superb academic reputation

THE EARLY YEARS OF

LEARNING

Our team of qualified Early Years Practitioners takes great pride in providing a warm, welcoming, and nurturing environment for children Working closely with paren carers, the team ensures that each child’s individual are respected and nurtured Every day, the team lead groups or one-to-one sessions which have been insp the interests of each child These sessions promote l linked to the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum

Our carefully planned environment provides a wide r learning resources to capture each child’s attention a inspire their imagination We advocate the benefits o led play which enables children to choose and guide own learning Child-led play is carefully supported by who can ‘scaffold’ age-appropriate learning opportu to develop the skills children need, whilst nurturing th growth and planning for future learning and develop

HARMONIOUS DEVELOPMENT

Independence is an important value at St Francis’ Nursery and is encouraged from an early age This enables our children to become self-motivated and resilient. They develop confidence, inquisitive minds, and a passion for learning, preparing them for the next chapter of school and the wider world

KEY PERSON

You child will get a key person

A key person has special responsibility for supporting your child and building a relationship with you. The role will involve close physical and personal care of your child and overseeing their learning and development

FACILITIES

As the Nursery is located within the St Francis’ College campus, our children benefit from the use of the College’s facilities; including, the indoor swimming pool, and music and French lessons Ballet lessons are available from the age of three at an additional cost

At St Francis’ College Nursery, we encourage children to spend time outdoors and have a dedicated Nursery garden where we support each child’s development through planned activities Spending time outdoors provides enriching experiences for learning and growth

The Nursery has specially designed rooms for each age group; including, a room for three-to four-year-olds that encourages curiosity, enables an enriched learning environment, and supports an inquiry-based approach to learning for this age group

SESSIONS & FEES

We offer a flexible choice of sessions Our experienced Nursery Manager, Kirsty Colley, would be delighted to answer any questions you may have about your child joining the Nursery, sessions and fees Kirsty can be contacted directly on 01462 670511 or via email: kcolley@st-francis herts sch uk

Year Round – 51 Weeks A Year

Full Day Sessions

7 30am – 6 00pm

7 30am – 1 00pm Afternoons

1 00pm – 6 30pm

Term Time Only

From three to four years only; minimum of either five sessions, morning or afternoon, or five full days per week

THEPREPSCHOOL

"Our daughters have been at St. Francis' College for the past 11 years since Kindergarten and our expectations have always been exceeded from both a pastoral and educational perspective. The College community is so supportive and caring and as a result both girls are happy and flourishing, which is the key to overall success. ”

St.Francis’Parent

Further informationcanbefoundontheCollegewebsite: www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk.

Thereissomethingincredibly specialhere.Ourstudentsare ourgreatestambassadorsand asyoustepintoourclassrooms youcanreallysensealoveof learning.

l at St Francis' College welcomes pupils at the r educational journey, aged 3 months to 11 years old ares them for the next phase of their education at The The all-through aspect of The College is truly n one appreciates that our Nursery children enjoy s in the same facilities as their Sixth Form colleagues benefit from access to The College’s theatre, dining es, music room, school counsellor, extensive outdoor g expertise Excellent teaching and learning is at the staff do With smaller class sizes and a focus on the e school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that retch and challenge to all pupils whilst championing pilsaretaughtbyspecialistsindifferentsubjectareas, Art, Drama, Music and PE, allowing pupils to be erswithextensivesubjectknowledgeandskills

p occupies its own buildings on The College site and provides a safe, nurturing and calm learning environment where pastoral care goes the extra mile Visitors often remark on the happy and friendly atmosphere of the school, which is demonstrated passionately by our pupils They are our greatest ambassadors and as one steps into the classrooms, one can sense their love of learning Pupils enjoy the enrichment opportunities at The Prep School, whether this be the lunchtime clubs, pupil leadership roles or the trips and visits they experience Our DREAMS values are instilled within each pupil with dedicated curriculum time allotted to foster a growing knowledge and understanding of how to appreciate these in everyday life both in schoolandbeyond

If you would like to come and have a tour of the Prep School or learn more about any aspect of life at St Francis' College, please do get in touch with us I would be delighted to introduce you to our school, our teachingandourpupils

Mr James Emanuel Head of The Prep School

THE PREP SCHOOL DAY

07:45

Students may start arriving at school and are supervised in the Prep Hall or playground (weather dependent)

08:30 – 08:40 Registration with class teacher/form tutor

08:40 – 09:45 Period 1

09:35 – 10:30 Period 2

10:30 – 10:50 Break

10:50 – 11:10 Tutor Time/Assembly

11:10 - 12:05 Period 3

12:05 – 13:05 Lunch

13:05 – 14:00 Period 4

14:00 – 14:55 Period 5

14:55 – 15:30 Period 6

15:30 End of the day

15:30 – 18:00 After School Supervision, Study, Sports Fixtures or Clubs

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB

This is open to students from Reception to Year 2 Sessions are from the end of lessons to 18:00 in term time Students may stay for all or part of a session, either every day or on occasional days; we aim to be as flexible as possible It is based in a Classroom in the Prep Department and is run by two experienced Classroom Assistants There is a charge for After-School Club, which includes a snack and a drink.

SUPERVISED STUDY

Students from Year 3 upwards may stay in School until 18:00 for supervised study This can be on a regular basis, for anything between one and five days per week, or occasionally as the need arises Students have a drink and a snack at the end of School, then at 16:00 they have a period of supervised study with a member of staff to do their homework Students can be collected at 17:00 or they join the After School Club for supervised play Students may be collected anytime between 17:00 and 18:00

CURRICULUM OUTLINE

ThefollowingsubjectsaretaughttoallPreparatoryYearGroups:

SpecialistComputerScienceistaughtfromYear3toYear6 ReceptiontoYear4willbetaughtbytheirclassteacher

SpecialistMathsandEnglishteachingisprovidedforchildreninYear5&6

AllDramaandMusiclessonsaretakenbyaspecialistteacher

ArtlessonsinYear4,5and6aretakenbyamemberoftheSeniorSchool’sArtDepartment

Food and Nutrition from Year 3-6 is also taken by a Senior School specialist teacher and included into work by the class teacheratappropriatetimesinReception–Year2

AllFrenchlessonsaretaughtbyaspecialistteacher

ScienceistaughtbyaspecialistteacherinYears5&6

PEandSwimminglessonsarealltaughtbyspecialistteachers

LatinistaughtbyspecialistteachersinYears5&6

HOMEWORK

Homework begins from Reception with reading books and spellings to take home and builds up over Key Stage Two. In Key Stage Two, there will also be pick and mix project homework which links across the topic being taught This will provide a range and choice of activities for the children to complete and will be displayed in a parent exhibition at the end of each term

Reception, Year 1 & Year 2

Key Stage Two (Years 3 & 4)

Key Stage Two (Years 5 & 6)

Reading and spellings only (20 minutes per night)

Reading, spellings and timetables (30 minutes per night)

Project based homework in the form of ‘pick and mix’ to display at a parent exhibition

Reading and spellings (30 minutes per night)

Project based homework in the form of ‘pick and mix’ to display at a parents’ exhibition

One English piece (30 mins) per week

One Maths piece (30 mins) per week

ASSESSMENT

Assessment takes a range of forms and is carried out in several diverse ways Formative assessment takes place regularly, such as through hearing the students read, discussion work, written exercises or homework These pieces of assessment are normally used in a formative way, to help the students progress

As students enter Reception, a baseline assessment is carried out on all pupils. Throughout the year, the students are assessed in a summative manner, using their learning journals, which parents contribute to online. At the end of the Reception year, students will be assessed using the Foundation Stage Profile, in line with the national requirements for students of this age

We also use assessments in a summative way, usually at the end of a topic or at the end of a term

INCLUSION / INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

The St Francis’ College Individual Needs Department enjoys an enviable reputation for the exceptional level of support and care for our pupils identified with mild specific learning difficulties

If your child has already been identified with Individual Needs, please contact Mrs Fryatt, Director of Inclusion, afryatt@st-francis herts sch uk, to arrange an initial meeting to discuss her needs

For those students who require support, a comprehensive package is provided: one-to-one or small group support with a specialist teacher Lessons are tailored exactly to students’ individual needs and are designed to raise knowledge, skills and self-esteem Support is available in Mathematics, English, revision, study skills and organisational skills The work we provide ensures that students are given the skills to access the curriculum in an inclusive way All students who have Individual Needs support are put on a Monitoring Form on which we set targets to track progress These are reviewed every term Parents are also invited to a termly review meeting to discuss progress Interventions are delivered to identified pupils by Teaching assistants, under the guidance of the class teacher

Support is provided by:

Mrs Tarr - QTLS

Mrs A Fryatt - BEd (Cantab), M A, DipCounsel, DipSpld, APC, NPQSL

Each student with Individual Needs has a Pupil Profile which summarises their Educational Psychologist/Specialist Assessor’s report and gives recommendations to teachers on how to differentiate lessons Teachers are fully appraised of each student’s needs and are provided with strategies to use in the classroom to enable each student to fulfil her potential.

LIBRARY

The Prep has its own Library found in a central location in the foyer. It holds a vast array of fiction and non-fiction books. The Reception and KS1 students have regular weekly visits to the Library. In KS2, the students still visit the Library as part of their English lessons The library is often open at lunchtimes for the children to be able to use the space and there are often senior school students who come to support prep students with reading at these times

A TYPICAL DAY

No two days are ever the same in the Prep, but a typical day might look something like this:

Arrive at school at 8:15am A chance to play and catch up with friends on the playground

Line up at 8:30am and then take belongings to the cloakroom before going to the Form Room for Registration

After a short registration time, it is off to Period one which will likely be with the class teacher from Reception – Year 4 but is likely to be with a specialist teacher in Year 5 or 6 Maths could form the start of the day

At 09:35, it is off to period 2 It could well be English –a chance to develop those reading and writing skills

At 10:30am it is time for a snack and a break A banana or apple, perhaps, and a chance to play outside with friends on the playground equipment

Form time or Assembly takes place at 10 50am A chance to practise some singing or find out a bit more about our school values

Back to lessons at 11:10am Perhaps PE, Swimming or Drama this time and a chance to develop other attributes

Lunch time arrives at 12:05 and it is off to the College Dining Room to enjoy the food that is on offer Will you have one of the delicious main hot meals on offer, enjoy a jacket potato or visit the salad bar? Don’t forget to pick up a dessert!!

After eating lunch, at about 12:30pm, it is time for more play on the playground or perhaps you will go to a lunchtime club Disco Ducks perhaps – get moving to the music!

At 1:05pm it is back to lessons once more Science perhaps A chance to carry out an experiment!

After Science it is time for French. Tres bien!

For the final period of the day, it’s back to the form tutor for Personal Development

At the end of the school day, you have signed up for Football Club and you get changed and then head out to the Fields to take part Learn some new tips before playing a practice match

Finally, at 5:00pm, you are ready to be collected Time to head home, refuel and tackle any homework that is needed Where did that day go?!

EXTRA-CURRICULAR

There are a range of optional extra activities available to the students, both during the school day and after School Many of our Reception pupils have Ballet lessons, with Tap being added in Year 1 and Modern Jazz Dance in Year 2 Tuition is available in most musical instruments, and there is a lunchtime Choir, Recorder Club and Orchestra There are a range of after school and lunchtime clubs such as Language clubs and Sports clubs Students may be invited to join our Swimming Squad or to represent the Prep in various sports fixtures or competitions We compete in a full range of sports against other schools

A wide variety of class, year group and whole School activities and events are organised throughout the year Listed below are just some examples of the activities which have taken place previously:

Topic/class assemblies throughout the week

Storytellers visit on World Book Day for Reception to Year 2, and costume parade for all year groups

Young Shakespeare Company workshop performance ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ for KS2

National Science Week - science activities for all year groups

National Primary Maths Challenge

KS2 Inter-house Swimming Gala

KS1 and KS2 Sports Days

Nativity Play and Carol Concert

Prep Summer Production - drama, song and dance

Harvest Festival assembly and distribution

Individual, group and panoramic School photos taken

Reception visits to Woburn Safari Park

Year 1 visit to Linton Zoo and history walk into Letchworth

Year 2 local visits as well as to Shepreth Wildlife park

Year 3 visits to Roald Dahl Museum

Year 4 India Day in school

Year 5 visit to the Hitchin British Schools Museum to learn about Victorian school life

Year 6 visit to Hitchin British Schools Museum to learn about WWII evacuees

Residential trips:

Year 4 three-day residential trip to Kingswood, West Runton

Year 5 three-day residential trip to Grafham Water

Year 6 four-day residential trip to Amsterdam

THESENIORSCHOOL

“What I love about the school is the clubs that you can join; including, Street Dance and the sport clubs. I also really enjoy having Drama in the Theatre and performing shows!”

Eloise,Year11

Further informationcanbefoundontheCollegewebsite: www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk.

WELCOME

Howourstudentslearnisas valuableaswhattheylearn We aimtofosterinquiringminds, whereresilienceandrisk-taking prevailoverapathyandfear.

nior School is a very special place, where our former Prep join with local students and those from all around the world in a dynamic yet caring community, working with teachers to heir true potential, both academically, and across a wide range curricularpursuits

7, 8 and 9, students enjoy a rigorous yet creative curriculum, full list of subjects in this section of the Handbook How our learn is as valuable as what they learn We aim to foster minds, where resilience and risk-taking prevail over apathy This is achieved through excellent, dynamic teaching, against rop of unique and engaging activities outside the classroom herelifelongmemoriesandfriendshipsaremade

n Years 10 and 11 moves to studying for GCSE public tions Our students are afforded more freedom as they grow into young adults, but still with pastoral care and academic support at every turn, and these are key to the outstanding success our students achieve They enjoy a wealth of opportunities away from lessons to really enhance the holistic nature of their education, be it through Duke ofEdinburgh,ABRSMandLAMDAqualifications,ModelUnitedNations, or world travel to destinations such as Costa and Rica and Ecuador in recentyears

From Year 10, students start their transition towards the Sixth Form, as they attend A Level Taster Days, informal breakfasts and shared events such as Sixth Form Society meetings where they come together with our Sixth Form and other guests to listen to inspiring external speakers This five-year journey shapes our students to be the leaders of the CollegepupilbodyastheymoveintotheSixthForm

Mr Dan Carr Assistant Head (Academic)

HEADS OF YEAR

Head of Years 7 & 8 - Dr Mary Ryan

My name is Dr Mary Ryan and I am Head of Year 7 and 8 and Head of Modern Foreign Languages I studied French and Italian at Durham University and then completed my PGCE at Oxford After a few years working in a co-ed state school in North London, I took up an opportunity to complete a PhD on Gustave Flaubert at King’s College, London, where I also taught I have been at the College since 2010 I know that Year 7 is an exciting and challenging year for our students as they manage the transition from Primary to Senior School The College aims to support each student as they grow in independence, work within new routines and expectations and establish new friendships Our pastoral structures are crucial in making sure that the students feel happy and safe coming to school every day Year 8 is a time for increased confidence, wider friendship groups and the chance to embrace new opportunities and responsibilities within our community Outside of school, I enjoy being with my family, running, walking and reading

Head of Year 9 - Mrs Tabitha Wilson

My name is Mrs Wilson, and I am Director of Art and Head of Year 9. I studied Fine Art with Textiles at Winchester School of Art. I worked as an Art Director at Photonica for eight years before co-founding a Design Agency with my partner I have always made and continue to make art and I have collaborated with Deborah Campbell for a collection of sustainable fashion for John Lewis; I sell my work through Saatchi-online and some of my work has been featured in films and Netflix TV series However, nothing compares to the rewards that come with teaching I have been teaching for over ten years and being at St Francis’ College since 2015 has been the best years of my working life I always encourage our students to keep in close communication with their friends as well as teachers and support staff in the College community I am very proud of the environment we have nurtured at St Francis’ College

The pastoral care we provide isn’t an ‘add-on’ or complimentary practice, the care is omnipresent It’s at the core with an intelligent, responsible, and focused centre on personal development and wellbeing Happiness and welfare are my priority, and academic success is built upon strong inclusive values I am confident this learning experience will equip our children with the competency skills needed to navigate Year 9 Externally, my volunteering with the Samaritans, supporting listeners, fundraising and PR for the North Herts and Stevenage region has been invaluable for pastoral support, as well as being a parent of two teenage children I recently gained a TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (RQF) in 2021, which I have been able to implement in my teaching and pastoral roles

Head of Year 10 - Mrs Claire Couzens

My Name is Mrs Couzens and I am Head of Year 10 and Head of the Food Technology Department I am excited to be a part of the school family, guiding Year 10 through a crucial year in their lives and giving them the support and insight needed to begin their GCSEs The pastoral element of being an educator has always been my passion; my approach is one in which my students know they are my priority. With the support of myself, other staff members, you as parents, their friends, and peers they can reach for the stars As their pastoral lead, I want the students to know they can rely upon me for all elements of their life, not just school and academic progress, I am here for them as a person I have a background in the hospitality industry, starting my career with professional cookery, where I first discovered my love of cooking and baking, this led to managing large hotels before I stepped into teaching just over ten years ago to follow my love of training and keep my presence within the kitchen

I also hold a senior post with AQA This collaboration with the examining board promotes continual personal development for myself and my subject As a mum of two, I have little free time; however, I will always make space for the things that make my family happy, which has led me to volunteer at Beds South Pony Club, of which my daughter is a member These values of happiness, inspiration, empowerment, and responsibility are what I bring from my home to our school family

Head of Year 11 - Mrs Kathy Kelly-Reid

My name is Kathy Kelly-Reid, I am Second in English and Head of Year 11 have been a teacher of English for 13 years now and for 10 out of 13 of those years I have been a form tutor from years 7- 11 Within those years I have been Head of KS3 in English, taught Drama and been involved with many school productions I have a passion for literature, theatre and music Outside the classroom I have always enjoyed leading extracurricular activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh award and running Amnesty International club where we raised awareness on many injustic faced by individuals and groups worldwide

Over the years I have gained experience from a wide range of schools, I have worked at state schools and a prestigious British International Scho in Thailand. I am the mother of two young children who remind me of the importance of nurturing young minds and providing a safe space for all children to flourish in their own unique way I originate from a small close knit community in Ireland and have been privileged to have travelled and live in diverse locations

Although I have only been at St Francis since June 2022, I have already made close bonds with staff and students The students at St Francis are very special; they are talented, kind and driven young people who inspire me every day From my time here at the College it has been made very clear that the welfare and wellbeing of the students is of paramount importance In my day-to-day practice, I aim to encourage students to always communicate, to know they are not alone and to always try to do the next right thing I am passionate about the happiness and well-being of our students and try to develop a strong sense of self and independence. Pastoral care is embedded and engrained in the fibres of the school values and something that is prevalent in the day-to-day life of the college. I am extremely proud to be part of such a strong and skilled pastoral team.

Achieving academic excellence is important here at the College but this can only be achieved with happy and secure children who feel fully supported; which is what we all endeavour to achieve I look forward to working closely with you and your daughter in navigating them through their GCSE journey and ensuring they are well equipped with the necessary skills required for a happy and successful future

THE TUTOR

Our students benefit greatly from having regular access to their form tutors throughout the school day, with opportunities to interact up to three times daily. This accessibility fosters a supportive environment where students can seek guidance, discuss academic progress, and address any concerns they may have. Form tutors play a pivotal role in monitoring student well-being and academic development, ensuring personalised attention and timely support.

Form tutors will contact parents within the first two weeks of the new academic year, and most tutors will be available at the New Academic Year Induction Evenings in September Should you have any concerns about any aspect of your child’s education, the tutor is usually the person to contact They in turn may involve other members of staff, including the Head of Year or Senior Leadership Team, should it be right to do so Please do feel able to email or telephone your child’s tutor at any time

THE SENIOR SCHOOL DAY

07:45

Students may start arriving at school and are supervised in the Library

08:30 – 08:40 Registration with Form Tutor

08:40 – 09:35 Period 1

09:35 – 10:30 Period 2

10:30 – 10:50 Break

10:50 – 11:10 Tutor Time/Assembly

11:10 - 12:05 Period 3

12:05 – 13:00 Period 4

13:00 – 14:00 Lunch

14:00 – 14:55 Period 5

14:55 – 15:50 Period 6

15:50 – 16:00 Tutor Time

16:00 After School Supervision, Sports Fixtures or Clubs

SETTING

Setting (based on academic achievement) is used in some subjects to facilitate teaching at the appropriate level and to support students in making progress The subjects where setting is used tend to be hierarchical in their construction of knowledge (Mathematics and Science) As a selective institution, it is important to realise that the sets in the College are representative of the generally high academic achievement that students display Learning is not a linear process and students can move up or down sets based on summative assessment performance

Mathematics classes are in sets from Year 7 to Year 9

Sets are used in Mathematics, Science, and English Science sets may depend on the combination of science subjects chosen at GCSE

KEY STAGE THREE CURRICULUM

The following subjects are studied at Key Stage Three:

Art

French Computer Science

Personal Development

Drama

Geography

Latin Science (Years 7 & 8)

Biology, Chemistry, Physics (taught independently in Year 9)

English

German or Spanish (taught in Years 8 & 9)

Mathematics

PE

Food and Nutrition

History

Music

Religious Studies

DREAMS

KEY STAGE FOUR CURRICULUM

Students choose 9 subjects at GCSE The core subjects taken by all pupils are:

English Language

Mathematics

A minimum of one science from Biology, Chemistry, and Physics

In addition to the above, students have a free choice of 6 remaining GCSEs from the list below:

Academic PE

Art & Design

Biology

Business

Chemistry

Combined Science

Computer Science

Dance

Drama

Food & Nutrition

French

Geography

German

History

Latin

Media

Music

Photography

Physics

Religious Studies

Alongside these choices, all students will also study:

HPQ (Higher Project Qualification)

Physical Education (non-examination)

Personal Development (non-examination)

DREAMS (non-examination)

Some students in Set 1 for Mathematics will be invited to take Further Mathematics GCSE This is taught alongside Mathematics GCSE, without any additional curriculum time

HOMEWORK

Students complete around three or four pieces of homework a night according to a timetable that is shared with students and families at the start of the academic year in line with the criteria below:

Years 7 and 8: English, Maths, Science, MFL will set 2 x 20 minute homework tasks per week Other subjects will set 2 x 20 minute homework tasks per fortnight Subjects can turn this into one longer piece, should they wish, as long as the maximum total is not exceeded

In Year 9, whilst the allocation is the same, each homework will have an increased maximum duration of 25 minutes

In Years 10 and 11, each subject will set 2 x 30 minute homework tasks per week Subjects may combine these into one longer task, not to exceed one hour

At A Level, each subject will set 4 hours of homework per subject per week at the teacher’s discretion

Homework tasks in all senior year groups will primarily be based around flipped learning of knowledge, consolidation of knowledge or independent learning with teacher provided links / references to resources.

If students are finding it difficult to complete work within the allocated time, we would be grateful if families could let us know We want to ensure that students are not spending inordinate amounts of time completing work at home

ASSESSMENT

Assessment takes a range of forms and can be in class tests, homework, essays or extended answers Each subject department has its own mark scheme which should clearly indicate the annotations and grade schemes used These pieces of assessment are normally used in a formative way, to help student progress These markschemes are couple with a College wise approach to comment marking, which allows welcome consistency for staff and students alike Longer pieces are marked as follows:

WWW (What Went Well – written in green pen by the teacher)

EBI (Even Better If – written in green pen by the teacher)

SFC (Student Focused Comment – written in purple pen by the students in response to the written feedback they have received from their teacher)

We also use assessments in a summative way, usually at the end of a topic or module, or more formally at the end of year or at the end of a course This would normally look like class tests or examinations sat under timed conditions. This type of assessment provides feedback on the overall performance on a unit/module of work. From September 2024, we will be providing students and parents with a termly assessment schedule for summative assessments to help students plan their time and to ensure balance

REPORTING AND PARENTS’ EVENING

Over the course of the academic year, families will receive one full written report, four interim grade cards (tracking grades) and will be invited to one Parents’ Evening This increases to two parents’ evenings in Years 11-13 Families book appointments electronically

The following tracking grades are used to report on student progress:

Effort

EX = Excellent

GD = Good or Very Good

IC = Inconsistent

CC = Cause for Concern

Achievement

Years 8 and 9: Grades A to D are used, and split grades may be awarded

Years 10: Grades 7+ to 1 are used

Year 11: Grades 9 to 1 are used

Years 12: Grades A to E are used

Year 13: Grades A* to E are used

In Year 7 from September 2024, under Curriculum 24 changes, and rolling through the school in subsequent years, the following language will be used

Effort & Engagement

Outstanding

Working beyond expectations

Working at expectations

Working towards expectations

Concerning

Skills Attainment

Outstanding

Working beyond expectations

Working at expectations

Working towards expectations

Concerning

Organisation

Working at expectations

Working towards expectations

Concerning

Following the release of tracking grades, every student will have a short meeting with their tutor to discuss their current progress and performance These conversations are recorded in their Academic Handbook

PARENT PORTAL

To help improve the communication between the College and our parents, we have a live ‘Parent Portal’ This allows parents to view data held on the College system about their child, as well as information regarding day-to-day school life Each parent will have their own username and password to access College information and data specifically for their own child

The Parent Portal has several features, some of which are outlined below:

School Life: You can see any bulletins, news and the daily school calendar, showing what is happening in the school each day A staff directory, with email addresses is included as well as the ability to see copies of letters and other documents given out

Pupil Profile: You can see your daughter’s timetable, attendance, and a summary of reports, half-term grades and exam results This will enable you to track her progress throughout her time at the College

Contact Details: Parents will be able to notify us of a change in contact details for their daughter via a form, reset password or username This will ensure that the College has the correct information, in case we need to contact you, especially in an emergency

We hope that you can find the time to log in to the parent portal and have a look around The system is clear and easy to use and will allow you to view the information outlined above quickly and at a time to suit you If you have more than one child at the school, you can select the name of your child whose details you wish to view

All new Parents will receive Parent Portal login details in a separate email from iSams when term starts; however, if you have forgotten your login, please do not hesitate to contact admin@st francis herts sch uk

To login to the Parent Portal:

1 Open your web browser on a computer linked to the Internet

2 Type in https://stfrancis parents isams cloud/api/login/ in the URL bar at the top OR from the St Francis’ College website’s Home tab and click on the image of the Portal’s home page From here you will be guided through the login process

We take data protection and system security very seriously at the College and as such our systems use encryption and other current security measures This is to ensure that both your own and your child's data is fully protected from security threats

INCLUSION INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

The St Francis’ College Individual Needs Department enjoys an enviable reputation for the exceptional level of support and care for our students identified with mild specific learning difficulties All new pupils joining the College are screened for dyslexia

If you daughter has already been identified with Individual Needs, please contact Mrs Fryatt, Director of Inclusion, afryatt@st-francis herts sch uk, to arrange a first meeting to discuss her needs

For those students who require support, a comprehensive package is provided: one-to-one or small group support with a specialist teacher. Lessons are tailored exactly to students’ individual needs and are designed to raise knowledge, skills and self-esteem Support is available in Mathematics, English, revision, study skills and organisational skills The work we provide ensures that pupils are given the skills to access the curriculum in an inclusive way All students who have Individual Needs support are put on a Monitoring Form on which we set targets to track progress These are reviewed every term Parents are also invited to a termly review meeting to discuss progress

Support is provided by:

Mrs A Tarr – QTLS

Mrs A Fryatt - BEd (Cantab), M A, DipCounsel, DipSpld, APC, NPQSL

Each student with Individual Needs has a Pupil Profile which summarises their Educational Psychologist/Specialist Assessor’s report and gives recommendations to teachers on how to differentiate lessons Teachers are fully appraised of each student’s needs and are provided with strategies to use in the classroom to enable each pupil to fulfil her potential

EXAMINATIONS

Assessments are set throughout the year by the subject teachers These are most often low stakes formative assessments, sometimes in the form of quizzes They also take the form of more traditional summative assessments approximately once per term for each subject The calendar for these assessments will be published to parents at students at the start of each term

At the end of the year, all students are set an end of year examination or assessment. In Years 7, 8 and 9, this is done less formally, usually during the relevant lessons, in their usual classrooms However, a few exams within a more formal setting and within an ‘ exam week’ are also used to get students used to this process In Year 10, the end-of-year examinations are sat in more formal conditions to prepare the students for their GCSEs These examinations take place in one of our large rooms or halls Year 11 also have mock examinations, currently scheduled for January, again sat in formal conditions in a large room or hall

External examinations (GCSEs) are sat during May and June The students receive their timetables for these examinations in March and have a presentation by the Examinations Officer before the examinations, where the expectations and JCQ rules and regulations are fully explained Results are issued to students on the published results day in August and are available by email or to collect in person This is all explained to the students nearer the time

Any questions on external examinations should be sent to examsofficer@st-francis herts sch com

Further informationcanbefoundontheCollegewebsite: www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk.

Weassistourstudentsto becomeself-motivatedlearners whoarethoroughlyprepared fortheworldofuniversityand work.

has a culture of high expectations and support Both aff are determined to make the most of these special our Sixth Formers are always busy! I am always eir attitude to learning and their dedication to serving heirplaceasrolemodelswithinourschoolcommunity

l learning environment provides a wonderful stepping rld of university and work Students find their preferred pendent study which can range from the Common StudyRoompods,theCollab’sgrouplearningspacesor h tables We assist our students to become selfers who are thoroughly prepared for the world of work A careful programme of Personal Development t (delivered through the DREAMS programme) gives tunity to develop strong mental health, fine tune their port the local community and broaden their perspective on the wider world We are very proud of the young adults they becomeandwelookforwardtohearingabouttheirlifejourney

Mrs Ruth Scott Head of Sixth Form

THE NEXT STEP

The Sixth Form is both similar and different to the Senior school The similarities centre on routine and College values and many students find a comfort in working within a community that they have grown familiar with over the years Some of the differences are striking and in deference to students’ growing sense of responsibility and independence Students enjoy their own Sixth Form area within the Broadway building and have dedicated spaces for socialising and studying These areas are important in finding a high-quality working environment for non-contact independent study and a space to chillout at break and lunch times Students wear their own clothes, following the Sixth Form dress code of smart business wear, and in doing so act as role models for younger students They are also able to go out at lunchtime and, after the Christmas of Year 12, have permission to leave during their study periods

Perhaps most importantly of all, students have the same teachers who they know and who know them, and form closer working relationships in small class sizes, meaning their teachers really know them as individuals and this bond leads to more successful outcomes

CURRICULUM

Most students choose 3 A Levels from a range of 28 subjects offered. All GCSE subjects are offered as A Levels, except for Food and Nutrition, together with new subjects such as Classics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Economics, Business, Film Studies, Music Technology, Sociology and Further Maths Full details of each A Level can be found in the Sixth Form prospectus On occasions, some students may consider studying a fourth subject In addition, all students have one double PE lesson per week, a Personal Development lesson, and the DREAMS curriculum

EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ)

The Extended Project Qualification, often abbreviated simply to EPQ, takes the form of an independent project on any topic of the student’s choosing Universities highly value the EPQ because it harnesses so many of the skills around independent study which are invaluable at undergraduate level In Year 12, this starts as a taught course teaching research, referencing, and many other valuable skills Each student has a mentor who will support them through the process, although the project itself is purely the student’s work The final piece often takes the form an extended essay, though it can also be an object made by a student or indeed a performance. To be successful, students need to be reflective learners and concentrate on the journey as much as the outcome The culmination of all this hard work is a presentation to peers and staff, which is one of the highlights of the school calendar

EXAMINATIONS

There is an opportunity in November for students to resit their Mathematics or English Language GCSE

Internally, tests are set throughout the year by the subject teachers. At the end of the year, Year 12 are set formal examinations to help establish university predicted grades. They take place in one of our large rooms in formal conditions Year 13 have a formal assessment week in November where they complete work in timed conditions in lessons They also have mock examinations, currently at the start of the Spring Term, again sat in formal conditions, in a large room

External examinations (A Levels) are sat during May and June The students receive their timetables for these examinations in March and have a presentation by the Examinations Officer before the examinations, where the expectations and JCQ rules and regulations are fully explained Results are given out on the published results day in August This is all explained to the students nearer the time

Any questions on external examinations should be sent to examsofficer@st-francis herts sch com

EXTRA-CURRICULAR

A busy school is a happy school and this is especially true in the St Francis’ College Sixth Form where opportunities come thick and fast There isn’t a day that does by where Sixth Form students are not leading a club or society, playing sport, rehearsing a play, taking part in an orchestra or ensemble, or leaving on a trip or DofE expedition In Year 12, all students are involved in leading our annual College Recycled Fashion Show, one of the highlights of the year and a key fundraiser for a partnership with the Kanyike Project in Uganda Later in the year, the annual Sixth Form Revue sees Year 12 once again come together as a year group to produce a spectacular performance for the whole College A script is written and rehearsed, the set designed and created, dance numbers choreographed and acts from the rest of the school brought together into one memorable occasion It is a brilliant tradition which develops teamwork and leadership, but which above all is just a lot of fun Trips and visits are often one ’ s abiding memory of their time at school, and the Sixth Form is a wonderful opportunity to embrace this Be it our annual Sixth Form trip to Europe and cities such as Barcelona and Amsterdam, a Business, German, and History trip to Berlin, or a two-week adventure to Uganda in support of the Kanyike project, the students here receive amazing opportunities to see the world. Closer to home, punting in Cambridge is always an annual favourite. Coupled with curriculum day trips and amazing opportunities such as Model United Nations conferences, our students are never bored or left twiddling their thumbs!

VISITING SPEAKERS

We want our students to be inspired by others and we are delighted to host many visiting speakers, whether as part of Sixth Form Society or for other events throughout the year On earlier occasions we have been privileged to hear from Professor Dame Carol Black, who is Principal of Newnham College, Cambridge, and holds several other leading roles such as Adviser on Work and Health at the Department of Health Since then, Sharron Gunn, an Executive Director at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, has introduced us to the challenges she has encountered in her profession, as well as sharing some fascinating data on how many women are being put forward to places on leadership training schemes Peter Tatchell visited us to share his journey in promoting the LGBTQ+ community We have also had the honour of hosting College alumni Dr Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator for NASA Science Mission Directorate, to share her own journey to stardom At our celebration of International Women’s Day, the College were delighted to welcome Professor Tanya Byron and Olympic Gold medallist Hannah Macleod to inspire our girls and show them what they can aspire to

UNIVERSITY SUPPORT

Most College leavers choose to go to university The Sixth Form Team have a wealth of experience in guiding all students in their applications Students meet regularly with their tutor and Head of Sixth Form, who assist them on this journey All students attend a UCAS fair and we hold a dedicated university admissions day for all students towards the end of Year 12 together with an information evening for parents

For those applying for highly competitive courses, such as Medicine, Veterinary Science and those at Oxford and Cambridge, they receive regular individual mentoring, assistance with admissions tests, and interview practice from a subject specialist within the school together with external experts We are enormously proud of our success in competitive admissions, which is in no small part down to the expertise and attention afforded individually to each applicant We are fortunate to have sent many students to Oxford and Cambridge to study a wide range of subjects Studying in the UK is not the only choice and in recent years we have also supported applications to universities overseas, including in China, Hong Kong, New Zealand and the United States

Increasingly, university is not the only possibility Degree Apprenticeships, with the tag line ‘ earn while you learn’, are on the rise where alongside gaining a degree, students earn a salary and pay no course fees. The attraction is obvious and we expect this route to become more prominent in the years to come. It is already a choice which some of our leavers have been successful in achieving and they return to the College to share their journey as part of the Year 11 ‘Step into Sixth Form’ day

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

St Francis’ College passionately believes in equipping our students with the skills they need to be the leaders of tomorrow In the Sixth Form we seek to offer both projects and roles through which students can develop and practise these skills, as well as talks and guidance on what it means to lead

All students are awarded a Prefect position, which they hold from the January of Year 12 for one year Each position has a specific responsibility, whether it is supporting younger students, taking up a whole school issue like charity or the environment, or leading your house All positions call on those holding them to come up with creative ideas and solutions, identify issues and needs, communicate with and manage other students, and develop self-organisation and public speaking skills One student each year is appointed

Our Head Girl and Deputies, who are appointed following an interview with the Head and a whole school hustings event, lead the Council Subcommittee meetings are held termly Students from across the College attend these meetings through their roles as leaders within their year groups The subcommittee meetings are chaired by Year 12 Prefects

The Head Girl and Deputies have regular meetings with the Senior Deputy Head and Head of Sixth Form to discuss ideas and suggestions, help start new projects, lead the Whole College School Council, and have key roles at major events such as Prize Giving and Open Days We take pride in the School Council acting as role-models for the younger members of the St Francis’ community to look up to

BoardingatSt.Francis' College

My stay (in boarding) has been so unforgettable. Thank you so much for taking care of me in so many ways, providing a loving and supportive 'home away from home' and fantastic activities. May the Boarding Community become even more lively and close-knit!

BoardingStudent

WELCOME:

Welcome to the Boarding House! We cultivate a warm, family-like atmosphere where our boarders can fully enjoy their experience Our dedicated and highly qualified staff ensure that our boarders are safe, well-cared for, and engaged with various activities during evenings and weekends

Along with the Boarding staff and myself, we are here to support our students throughout their time with us. Whether they need pastoral or academicassistance,ourteamisalwaysonhandtohelp.Wetakegreat pride in the homely and welcoming environment we have created here Our students' contributions are vital to maintaining and enhancing this atmosphere It is important that they have their say and input into the life we offer at St Francis’ Please encourage them to communicate with their Boarding and Food Council representatives, as well as our Deputy Head Girl - Boarding, to ensure that their views and ideas are heard Wegenuinelywanttohearthem

We hope our students will take full advantage of the trips, activities, pastoral support, and academic assistance provided throughout their time with us We encourage them to embrace everything on offer and make the most of their experience I am excited for this year and look forwardtoallthewonderfulmomentswewillshare

Our Boarding team provides our boarders with the care and attention they need to thrive throughout their journey at St Francis’ College They play a vital role in boarding life, offering academic support to students and coordinating with teaching staff to provide personalized assistance Our team attends to the students' daily needs within the boarding house They maintain cleanliness and order in the bedrooms, handle laundry, and ensure the school uniform is immaculate Additionally, they accompany the students to essential appointments, including visits to the doctor, dentist, optician, or orthodontist We also have a registered nurse who visits the boarding house in the evenings to address medical needs, working closely with the college nurse to providemedicaladviceandprimarycaretreatments

Wetakegreatprideinourboardingfamily,cherishingandvaluingevery studentasanintegralpartoftheSt Francis’community

Miss Gemma Arthur Head of Boarding

THE BOARDING TEAM

Miss G Arthur

TBC

TBC

TBC

Miss M Bentley

Head of Boarding

Resident Senior Houseparent

Resident Senior Houseparent

Resident Academic Mentor

Resident Academic Mentor

Academic Mentor

Miss J Marshall Houseparent

Nurse S Hall

BOARDING OPTIONS:

We recognise that when it comes to choosing to board, a one-size-fits-all approach may not be suitable Therefore, we offer four main boarding packages: Full, Weekly, Flexi, and Day Boarding. We warmly welcome visitors to our Boarding House, and our dedicated Boarding Staff are always happy to discuss these options with parents and pupils For detailed information about our boarding options, please contact Miss Arthur, Head of Boarding, at garthur@stfrancis herts sch uk

Flexi Boarding gives a wonderful opportunity for students to experience the vibrant life of our Boarding House while accommodating the diverse work commitments and lifestyles of parents This option is also ideal for students with long commutes who may find it challenging to keep up with their studies or are becoming too tired from their travel time Flexi Boarding allows students, subject to availability, to stay at the College occasionally This offers a fantastic preuniversity experience, and many students find it incredibly beneficial as they prepare to leave the family home Nights should be booked in advance and will be charged to your child’s Wisepay account All changes to boarding status must be arranged through the Head of Boarding initially

BOARDING TRIPS AND ACTIVITIES

Boarding trips and activities are a cornerstone of our boarding life, and we strongly encourage our boarders to take part as much as possible to fully embrace the St Francis experience We offer a diverse range of exciting trips, including visits to various London museums, galleries, and shows, as well as a multitude of cultural experiences

Boarding Nurse

We have amazing Boarding trips, which include visits to London for the museums, galleries, theatre and concerts Our students also love to have fun ice-skating and bowling, as well as visiting the cinema and local theme parks. We regularly invite day students to join our trips and activities and they are always welcome for a sleepover with their friends in Boarding

We keep our students remarkably busy with a wide variety of on-site activities every evening and at weekends These may vary according to the time of year, but the tennis courts, swimming pool and gymnasium are busy all year round and we offer various clubs such as arts and crafts, cooking and cross stitch to name but a few All the common rooms are equipped with TVs, and we host weekly film nights in the Games Room, which are hugely popular, especially when the popcorn and hot chocolate appear! Our students also enjoy fun outings such as ice skating, bowling, cinema trips, and visits to local theme parks Day pupils are regularly invited to join these trips and activities and are always welcome for a sleepover with their friends in the Boarding House

For full boarders in Year 10 and below, participation in all Saturday trips is mandatory Typically, there is a trip every two weeks, although this may vary depending on the trip calendar Parents will receive a list of all upcoming trips and events before the beginning of each term to ensure they are well-informed and can plan accordingly

To keep our students engaged, we provide a wide variety of on-site activities every evening and weekend These activities may change with the seasons, but our tennis courts, swimming pool, and gymnasium are in constant use throughout the year We also offer various clubs, such as arts and crafts, cooking, and cross-stitch, to name a few All common rooms are equipped with TVs, and our weekly film nights in the Games Room are particularly popular, especially when accompanied by movie snacks.

CHILD STUDENT VISAS

The College provides support documents for the students’ visa applications, including Child Student visas Inspired Learning Group is registered with the UK Visa and Immigration Office as a Child Student Sponsor Please refer to the information about absence in the Pastoral Life section of this booklet for further information about the College’s obligations to report non-attendance

GUARDIANS

We recognise that providing suitable educational guardianship arrangements is an essential aspect of the pastoral care of our international students Every boarder must have an appointed educational guardian, chosen by their parents, before enrolling at the College We maintain regular contact with educational guardians to offer advice and support as needed

An educational guardian must reside in the UK and live close enough to the pupil and the College to provide a supportive and nurturing home environment. This guardian can be a family member, family friend, guardianship agency, host family, or another responsible UK-based adult The guardian must be able to arrange accommodation for the boarder during midterm breaks and school holidays, as the College and Boarding House are closed during these periods As part of our duty of care, we will ensure that the guardianship arrangement promotes the welfare, physical well-being, and emotional well-being of the boarder

A suitable educational guardian should preferably be a responsible adult over twenty-five but must be at least twenty-one years of age The College does not consider a university student residing in student accommodation or halls of residence a suitable guardian and an alternative guardian will need to be appointed

To facilitate the boarder’s proficiency in English, we prefer that English is the language spoken in the home where the boarder will stay At the very least, the guardian must have sufficient English proficiency to communicate easily with the College

An educational guardian’s responsibilities for a boarder under the age of eighteen include regular contact to provide advice and support, taking responsibility for the boarder if they are unwell, suspended, expelled, or if the College closes for any reason If a boarder exhibits signs of a serious infectious disease, such as flu, COVID-19, or gastrointestinal illness, they must leave the school for at least 48 hours after symptoms cease Parents or guardians will be contacted if a boarder is unwell and must collect and care for them at home until they are symptom-free and well enough to return

Guardians must inform the College if they are going to be away from home, such as on holiday or business travel, and cannot fulfil their guardianship duties If they leave the UK, a deputy or stand-in guardian must be appointed, and the College must be notified of their contact details

Parents and guardians are responsible for the collection and transport of boarders at the start and end of each half term or for any temporary absences from College If we assist with arrangements, such as booking taxi services to the airport, the Boarding House will be on call to the boarder and their parents or guardian until they reach their destination for safeguarding purposes

Please do not hesitate to contact Miss Arthur, Head of Boarding, at garthur@st-francis herts sch uk if you have any questions regarding guardianship arrangements You may also refer to our College Guardianship Policy, available on the College website