YEAR 8 – 12 New Student Handbook
THE
KING’S
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SCHOOL
The King’s School is a Christian community that seeks to make an outstanding impact for the good of society through its students, and by the quality of its teaching and leadership in education.
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A Welcome from the Head of Senior School and Deputy Headmaster I extend a warm welcome to our new boys, and their families. I am delighted that you have joined us and we look forward to sharing this significant journey where your son is transformed into a confident young man who is ready to take his place in God’s amazing world. This significant journey begins as your son launches into The King’s School with energy, enthusiasm and talent. These qualities add to the existing student body, in a cycle that invigorates the School. Thank you for choosing King’s. We will do our best to make your time with us a marvellous adventure. We want to work with your family so that your son realises his full potential. We want to prepare him, through academic excellence and character development, for life ahead. You have chosen a lovely school where boys flourish. We have over 300 acres of beautiful parkland, dozens of fabulous buildings and great sports facilities. What makes King’s special is the people in our community and you are now a part of this community. We have a dedicated team of staff who will partner with you in your son’s learning. I use the term “partner”, because teachers at King’s work alongside their students, not in front of them. We welcome you to share in the challenging and exhilarating times that are ahead. The King’s School is a great place of opportunity – let me encourage your son to make the most of his time here. I look forward to seeing him learning in the classroom, playing on the sporting field, performing on stage, supporting those in need, joining in one of the many clubs or simply enjoying a meal in the Dining Room. I have no doubt that your family will love King’s, just as I do. It is my hope that your time at King’s will not only prepare your son for the future, but will also remain one of the fondest memories of his life.
Stephen Edwards Rev Stephen Edwards Deputy Headmaster and Head of Senior School
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Contents A Welcome from the Head of Senior School and Deputy Headmaster
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Contacts
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History
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Location
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School Arms
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Uniform
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Scholarships
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Chapel
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School Rules and Conduct
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Health Centre
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House Organisation
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The Housemaster
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House Matrons
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House Staff
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House Meetings
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Meals
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Extended Day Program
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House Levies
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At Homes
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Day Boy Houses
Co-Curricular Activities
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Sport
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Co-Curricular Opportunities
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Cadet Corps
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Boys to Men program
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Camps Week
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Socials
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Day Boy Weekends
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Performing Arts
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Music
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Individual Music Tuition
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Drama and The King’s Theatre
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Travel
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Dress Regulations - Weekdays and Saturdays 19 Day Boy Travel
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Motor Vehicles
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The School and Community
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The King’s School Parents’ Association
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Friends of King’s
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The King’s School Foundation and Advancement Office
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Telephone and Facsimile Numbers
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Academic Life
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School Shop
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Academic Courses
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The Braeside Shop
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Year Co-Ordinators
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Clothing Pool
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Daily Routine
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School Term Dates
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The School Diary and Calendar
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School Map
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The 10 Day Cycle
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Reports and Parent-Teacher Interviews
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Educational Support Services
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Enrichment and Extension
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Boarding Houses
Information and Communications Technology 13 Emergency Evacuation Procedures
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Contacts Head of Senior School and Deputy Headmaster Rev Stephen Edwards see@kings.edu.au 9683 8442 Deputy Head (Students & Community) Mr Josh Hoogland joh@kings.edu.au 0455 098 243 School Sergeant Mr Aaran Booth abooth@kings.edu.au 9683 8411 Health Centre Senior Nurse: Kerry Milosevic School Doctor: Dr Matthew Masterson
Deputy Head (Academics) Mrs Jackie Camilleri jyc@kings.edu.au 9683 8697 Deputy Head (Co-curricular) Mr Wesley Dunne wdunne@kings.edu.au 02 9683 8562 ICT Services servicedesk@kings.edu.au 9683 8690 School Chaplain Rev Jason Hobba jhobba@kings.edu.au 9683 8414
healthcentre@kings.edu.au
Main Reception and Transport Enquiries
9683 8409 Fax: 9683 8493
Mrs Karen Austin
Senior Student Absentees
kaustin@kings.edu.au 9683 8588
Mrs Megan Mansfield absentees@kings.edu.au 9683 8539 Community Engagement Mrs Rose Thomson rthomson@kings.edu.au 9683 8613
House: Housemaster: Phone: Mentor: Email:
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Introduction History Of The King’s School
Location
Chapel
The King’s School, founded by the command of King William IV, opened its doors on Monday, 13 February 1832 in rented premises (now known as Harrisford) near the wharves at the end of George Street, Parramatta. Three day boys, all under the age of 10, came on the first day, but by April, boarders were being accepted, and more came each year to supplement the income of the early Headmasters.
Today, the School occupies more than 300 acres of unsurpassed natural environment close to the CBD of Parramatta at the demographic heart of Sydney. This environment gives boys space to move and play and offers the best of both rural and urban experiences in Australia’s largest cosmopolitan city.
Chapel services have been at the centre of School life since its inception. The Chapel was consecrated in 1889 with extensions in 1922 and dedicated as a memorial to those Old Boys who fell in two World Wars. After the School moved to its current site at Gowan Brae, the Chapel soon followed, stone by stone, and was completed in 1972.
In January 1836, the Crown provided a school house and accommodation on land closer to Government House, but still on the river. This site was retained by the School for over 130 years until being vacated in August 1968. The School Council did not gain an effective voice until 1885. From 1893 its governance of the School was monitored to some degree by some of its members, also being members of the Old Boys’ Union, which was founded in that year. Possibly the strongest overt influence exerted by that Union occurred in the years 1947 to 1949 when they successfully opposed the School Council’s decision to move to Wollongong. Faced then with the problem of finding a new site near Parramatta, the School community examined several before Gowan Brae came onto the market early in 1954. The purchase was completed quickly and the Prep moved into the former residence of Sir James Burns at Gowan Brae in January 1955. Planning to build the Senior School proceeded through the 1950s and the property in Parramatta was sold and fundraising commenced. On 14 December 1960, Speech Day was held in a marquee at Gowan Brae and the Prime Minister, Sir Robert Menzies, unveiled the refounding tablet. Two years later, teaching commenced on the new site, with boarding houses being built as finance became available.
School Arms The School Motto is “Fortiter et Fideliter” which translates as “Bravely and Faithfully”. The “IX” in the centre of the shield represents the first letters of two ancient Greek words which stand for Jesus Christ. The colours on the arms are sky blue and white, with blue representing the sky and white representing purity.
Uniform The School is proud of its unique uniform which dates back to the formation of The King’s School Cadet Corps in 1868. Boys are expected to wear the uniform properly so that the good reputation of the School is protected. A checklist of relevant uniform, sport requirements and personal items is enclosed in the Newstarters Pack, together with advice regarding the purchase of uniform requirements.
Scholarships A number of scholarships and means tested boarder bursaries are offered by the School with varying periods of tenure. Information on these Scholarships is available on the School website www. kings.edu.au or from the Registrar’s Office.
In 2017, Mr Tony George was inducted as the 20th Headmaster of The King’s School.
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Although students from all faiths are welcome at the School, it is hoped that the boys will grow in their knowledge and appreciation of the Christian Faith, as it lies at the heart of the School. Boys’ attend Chapel every week, where there is a mix of formal and informal worship styles. On some evenings boarders attend an All Boarders Chapel and also a House Holy Communion or Evening Prayer service during the term. Students are taught Biblical Studies in each of their years at School. These classes focus on developing knowledge of the Bible and the Christian faith with a special emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s plan. Various ethical issues are also explored from a Christian viewpoint to encourage students to think about their actions in the world. The major world religions are also studied and “Studies of Religion” is offered as an HSC subject. Optional student Christian Fellowship groups meet weekly for those boys who wish to personally explore their faith. Confirmation is also available for students in Year 9 and above.
School Rules And Conduct
Health Centre
A guide to conduct and School rules can be found in the front of the School Diary and should be read in further detail. These rules are a guide only and are reviewed regularly. They are kept to the minimum necessary to fulfil the School’s responsibility as a guardian; to ensure the safety, welfare and happiness of all its members; and to make the essential arrangements for a community where students can flourish, and where each boy has the opportunity to develop his own talents in an atmosphere of self-discipline and mutual respect.
The Health Centre is available to members of the School community throughout the school year for the management of health issues and to assist with pastoral care. The Centre is staffed around the clock by a registered nurse during the school terms, and is the first port of call for all health issues at school – from illness to trauma. Support is also provided for boys with chronic health challenges such as diabetes, asthma and allergies – together with coordination of immunization programs, and other preventative measures.
The possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, pornography, firearms and missiles is forbidden.
In addition, services are provided by a GP/ Sports Doctor who visits the Health Centre most week days. As the doctor’s hours vary, it is sensible to contact the nursing staff to organise appointments. For those with Medicare cards, the doctor is able to bulk bill for consultations and other services provided. The doctor is on call outside of scheduled clinic times to assist with urgent problems and emergencies.
The King’s School has a reputation as a safe and friendly school and does not tolerate bullying. Our comprehensive AntiBullying Policy is available on the website. Also available on our website are the following documents –
• Policy for the Supervision of Day Boys Before and After Classes
• Parents’ and/or Students’ General
Complaints and Grievances Resolution Procedure
• Anaphylaxis Policy.
The Health Centre is open from 7.00am – 10.00pm daily, and boys may present at any time during this period, though they are encouraged not to miss classes for non-urgent problems. Overnight (after 10.00pm), the boarders can access health care services by reporting to their Matron or Housemaster, who will contact the duty nurse when required. While it is hoped that your son will seldom require the use of the Health Centre, he will always be welcome to visit for care, friendly advice and appropriate treatment.
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If your son is new to the School, the Medical Form enclosed needs to be completed by you. The form is to be completed and sent to the Health Centre as soon as possible, and must be received by the Health Centre no later than the day prior to commencement. Parents should visit the School Health Centre at some stage on interview day to meet with the School Nursing Staff.
Health Centre Contact Details Telephone: 02 9683 8409 Facsimile: 02 9683 8493 Email: healthcentre@kings.edu.au
House Organisation There are ten houses in the Senior School for Year 8 – Year 12. They are named after past Headmasters and Deputy Headmasters, the School founder, the name of our site and other historical personages.
The Housemaster Each house is overseen by a Housemaster who exercises a range of academic, pastoral, administrative and leadership roles within their House in order to ensure the wellbeing of the students. Mentors should be the primary point of contact for parents. Year Co-ordinators have academic oversight for Year Groups and may be contacted about specific academic and subject choice issues.
House Matrons The Boarding Houses have a live-in weekday House Matron who is an integral part of the pastoral “family”. While their major responsibility lies in domestic affairs within the boarding house, they also provide that friendly ear listening to home news, social relationships, classroom issues and sporting achievements. In some Houses, the Matron maybe the wife of the Housemaster.
House Staff Day and Boarding Housemasters are assisted by a variety of staff who deal with such matters as pastoral care, health and wellbeing, academic issues, social outings and supervision. Attached to each Day House are Mentors who meet regularly with the students and guide them in both academic and pastoral matters. Mentor and Year Group meetings are held regularly. Boarding Housemasters are assisted by resident members of staff and a resident
House Matron. Academic support in the boarding houses is provided by the Housemaster, the resident staff patrons and additional members of the teaching staff.
House Meetings Day boys and boarders attend regular House meetings. These meetings provide an opportunity to recognise the achievements of boys in the House, provide a setting for performances and the display of work, give staff the opportunity to pass on information and to remind boys of administrative arrangements.
Meals Meals are served in the School’s dining hall. The food at The King’s School is of the highest standard, and boys are given a generous choice of offerings. Boarders must attend all meals, including breakfast, and day boys must attend lunch. Boys are also expected to observe the conventions of good table manners when eating in the dining room.
Housemaster
Britten
Mrs Susan MacDonald
Burkitt
Mr Scott Bluzmanis
Dalmas
Ms Kobe Perdriau
Kurrle
Mr Christian Eatough
Macquarie
Mr Wayne Edwards
Wickham
Mrs Astrid Sampson
Boarders are provided with fruit and other alternatives during the morning break.
House Levies Senior houses impose a small annual levy to cover minor expenses incurred within the house. House levies for this year will be confirmed during Term 4 of the previous year prior to appearing on the School account.
At Homes Each House organises several functions during the year where parents have the opportunity to mix socially and interact with staff, other parents and students. The major social gathering is known as the “At Home” when all parents are invited to attend the Annual House Function.
Unacceptable behaviour at meals will not be tolerated and neither will inappropriate wastage of food. Boys must be neatly dressed in the appropriate version of the School uniform for all meals. It is expected that boys will treat dining hall staff with courtesy and respect.
BOARDING HOUSES
DAY BOY HOUSES House
The dining hall can cater for special dietary needs; please advise your Housemaster.
House Colour
House
Housemaster
Baker Hake
Mr Robert Williams
House Colour
Laundry No 6
Bishop Barker Harris Mr Tom Ruddock
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Broughton Forrest
Mr Tim Rayner
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Macarthur Waddy
Mr Michael Symons
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Academic Life Academic Courses A document detailing the academic courses for 2021 will be available from the Deputy Head (Academics) office.
Year Coordinators The team of Year Coordinators will work both collectively with the Year Group and individually with boys to continue to develop the characteristics that students need to achieve their best, not only in the academic sphere of the school, but also to develop good relationships and achieve a balance in their lives. This will involve a program run in Year meetings and mentor time that will include study skills, leadership skills, opportunities to be involved in service learning and well-being initiatives. Along with Housemasters, mentors, counsellors and co-curricular leaders – such as sport coaches, Year Coordinators provide an important avenue of support for each student.
Daily Routine The School day commences at 8.20am for all students. Day boys should arrive at School by 8.10am. Musical ensembles practice after breakfast, before school on three mornings each week and at a variety of other times, as arranged. Mentor and Year Group meetings are held regularly – as are Assemblies and Chapel. The daily routine for boarders in the Houses will vary from season to season, but boarders will rise at 6.45am and undertake prep (homework) each evening between 7.00 and 8.30pm, with the opportunity of a further study period later in the evening for senior boys. The boys also have access to academic Mentors and patrons up to 9.00pm, as well as on the weekend at varying times. The School’s routine is an active one and younger boys may initially be quite tired until they get used to the structure and activity.
The School Diary and Calendar All students will be supplied with a School Diary and a Calendar. The Diary provides important day to day information, and is the common property of the student, the staff and parents. Accordingly, it serves as a very important communication strategy between the School, the Housemaster, the Year Coordinator and home. Parents, Mentors and staff are encouraged to write notes in the Diary and to inspect its contents regularly. Every student will be expected to have his School Diary at each lesson. Mentors inspect diaries as a matter of routine during their regular meetings with students. Homework is to be recorded in the Diary. The ten-day cycle and general timetabling information are available and important regulations and advice on study techniques are set out in the introduction. The first section at the front of the Diary comprises the School Rules. All new students should read this section. The School’s Rules act as a behavioural guide for all students. The very highest standards of conduct, courtesy and compassion are required of all students. The King’s School has a rich and interesting history, and this is summarised in the Diary. Boys and their parents are encouraged to know about, and take pride in aspects of the School’s past, and the Robert Robertson Museum and the School’s archivist are further sources available to the King’s community. The School’s intranet “KingsNet” will provide parents, students and staff with news, important information and notifications. In accessing KingsNet families will be able to stay up to date with what is happening at King’s. It is expected all parents will access KingsNet on a regular basis.
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The 10 Day Cycle The School operates a timetable over a ten-day cycle. The day of the cycle is indicated in the School Diary. There are six academic periods in each day. Morning break is between periods 2 and 3. Lunch break is between periods 4 and 5. Lunch is provided for all boys in the Dining Hall. Classes conclude at 3.25pm. Sports practices are scheduled on two afternoons per week, from 3.45pm to 5.00pm, with a few teams training before school.
Reports and Parent-Teacher Interviews Your son’s Mentor is your primary contact point with the School for academic matters. Housemasters and Year Coordinators are also available to discuss pastoral and academic matters. If you feel you have a serious concern, please telephone or email the Housemaster or Year Co-ordinator. Like you, we prefer to hear of concerns before they develop into major problems. Parents of boys new to the School can expect a report summarising their son’s academic performance from the Mentor or Housemaster at the end of Term 1. A full School Report is provided at the end of the Term 2. These reports contain a course description, performance outcomes, teacher comment and recommendation and, where appropriate, a cumulative assessment mark and rank. The Mentor and Housemaster include a pastoral comment on these reports. Parents are encouraged to attend interviews with each of their son’s subject teachers during the year. A full report is provided at the end of Term 3 for Years 11 and 12, and at the end of Term 4 for Years 7–10.
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Educational Support Services The School has an Educational Support Services Department (ESS), co-ordinated and taught by specialist learning support staff. ESS provides assistance to boys across all Year levels in a variety of ways that seek to develop students’ full academic, social and emotional potential in order to achieve their individual goals. This includes students who need to consolidate their literacy skills and students with English as a Second Language. It is imperative that parents contact the ESS Department and/or the Year Co-ordinator if they have information that would assist the School to meet a student’s academic or pastoral needs. Boys are taught in a structured learning environment that is both positive and rewarding. Students are assisted through teaching in differentiated classes or through support in the key subject areas by ESS staff. Assistance with homework, assignments and assessments is also available for students who require extra support in the key subject areas. A Homework Club supervised by the ESS staff, is held in the ESS Department after school on Monday to Thursday for students to attend on their non-sport afternoons. ESS also runs handwriting classes for those students who need to improve the legibility and speed of their handwriting script. These classes take place on a Monday and Wednesday morning from 8.00am until 8.40am. If it is considered that a student requires remedial assistance, his teacher, Mentor or the Head of Educational Support Services will contact parents to discuss the matter. Disability Provisions for examinations are also co-ordinated through the Educational Support Services Department. Parents should contact the Head of ESS, Mrs Angela Williams, if their son requires Disability Provisions due to illness, learning difficulties or other problems. In keeping with The King’s School Mission, Educational Support Services is pleased to introduce the Special Education Integration Program to be known as the “Transition Class”.
Academic Enrichment and Extension The School provides quality enriching learning experiences for all students including high potential and gifted learners through rigorous classroom and cocurriculum experiences. The Program for high potential and gifted boys consists of various initiatives, including extension, acceleration and streaming, amongst others. As educators, the School’s prime concern is to allow students to discover their gifts and develop those gifts into talents. The King’s School acknowledges the wide range of areas of excellence students may exhibit and we strive to identify and direct those who are gifted in different academic domains. A further focus area is the social and emotional well-being of the boys. At King’s we have close pastoral care systems to help all boys, including the gifted, with their differing developmental speeds, as they grow into young men. Parents are encouraged to contact the the Head of Academic Enrichment and Extension, should they have information that indicates their son has particular gifts, or with any specific queries.
Information and Communication Technology The King’s School is committed to the thoughtful and innovative integration of high quality face-to-face teaching with online digital practices to deliver a flexible and personalised learning experience for our students. The School’s Digital Learning strategy ensures that our students have access to the very best educational resources to improve student learning experiences, both in and out of the classroom. The School continues to invest in its ICT infrastructure to deliver a high level of services and support across our campuses:
• Canvas is the School’s Learning
Management System and provides students with online access to academic classes.
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• Box of Books is a digital textbook
platform that integrates with Canvas, providing students with access to their complete suite of digital textbooks with the Canvas platform
• At King’s, we have a comprehensive
filtered wireless network covering all learning areas and boarding houses around the campus, including some outdoor areas. Two high speed internet connections with redundant firewalls and building-to-building fibre create fast and secure communication infrastructure.
• Student access to the School’s internet is filtered by next generation firewalls to ensure safe and secure access to the internet from School.
• The School provides students with
access to Microsoft Office 365 and the Adobe Creative Cloud. In addition, students also have access to subject specific software as needed.
• Students are provided with a King’s email account via Office 365.
• Multi-function devices located in key
areas of the campus provide students with advanced print, photocopy and scan facilities.
• Students also have access to a
wide range of dedicated desktops in Computing Studies and Industrial Arts and multimedia equipment including cameras, video and 360 degree cameras and drones.
• Maker Place is a makerspace where students use their laptops to create and tinker on projects such as Minecraft, TinkerCad, 3D Printing and Scratch.
It is important for students and their parents to read, understand and sign the School’s ICT Acceptable Use Policy which outlines in detail the School’s expectations regarding the use of ICT infrastructure and devices.
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Co-Curricular Activities Sport
Co-Curricular Opportunities
The Co-curricular program is vital to a student’s education at The King’s School as it provides challenges which allow a boy’s character to develop. A wide range of sports and physical activities are provided for boys in all four terms. In team games, every effort is made to arrange regular Saturday fixtures against other schools. The School encourages younger boys to take part in team games.
The School offers an extensive range of co-curricular activities, and boys are encouraged to involve themselves in as many of these as is feasible. However, the excitement of such a wide choice can lead to over-commitment and it is recommended that boys consult their Housemaster or Mentor before involving themselves in activities. All information regarding co-curricular activities can be found on KingsNet.
All boys are required to have a full commitment to School sport. A boy’s sporting commitment will involve at least two afternoons a week until 5.00pm and one half of Saturday. School sport takes precedence over outside sporting programs or other co-curricular activities. Boarders and day boys will be required to attend a number of compulsory GPS events to support School teams (for example: The Head of the River Regatta, the GPS Athletics Championships, designated winter matches.) Sports offered include:
• In Terms 1 and 4: Cricket, Basketball, Tennis, Table Tennis, Swimming, Rowing, Water Polo, Mountain Biking
• In Terms 2 and 3: Rugby, Badminton, Cross Country, Football, Volleyball, Mountain Biking
• The School also enters the Australian Schools Snowsports competition during the winter months.
• All boys take part in Athletics during the appropriate season.
Please discuss your preferences with the Housemaster or Mentor on Reception Day. Places in some teams can be very competitive due to a limitation on the numbers of players that can field a team. Whilst the School endeavours to place boys in a sport of their preference, this is dependent on appropriate skill levels and is not always possible.
Many of these activities are scheduled for evenings or afternoons and must not interfere with satisfactory completion of homework or scheduled School sports practices.
Cadet Corps
The course teaches practical skills such as money management, cooking, leadership, car maintenance, ironing and etiquette. There is also reflection on how to develop healthy relationships and be a responsible and caring partner.
Camps Week A week is programmed at the end of Term 1 when all students will be involved in a unique program designed to enhance teamwork, develop new skills and enhance relationships within the year.
• Year 7: Expeditionary based camp around Sydney locations.
• Year 8: The Camp consists of outdoor
activities at a regional location in NSW.
• Years 9-12 Corps: This program is run
Participation in The King’s School Cadet Corps is compulsory for all boys in Years 9 and 10. Year 11 and 12 boys elect to undertake promotions courses, which lead to the award of rank within the Corps. The School’s Cadet Corps is one of the oldest and largest in the country and is an important part of the tradition of the School. Membership of the Corps involves activities that encourage self-reliance and confidence. Trekking, abseiling, navigation and other skills are taught and practised, as well as some army-style drills that culminate in an impressive Regimental Passing Out Parade on the JS White Oval. An annual camp at Singleton Army Range and in the Brokenback Ranges near Singleton is a highlight of the Corps year. The School uniform is also the Cadet Corps dress uniform (including the traditional slouch hat).
Boys to Men Program The Boys to Men program in Year 10 develops leadership and lifeskills required in the home. This dynamic course aims to produce young men who can make significant contributions to society.
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by The King’s School Cadet Unit and is conducted in the in the Brokenback Ranges near Singleton. Activities include trekking, abseiling and the development of leadership and survival skills.
• Years 11-12 Community Outreach is for students not staying on in Cadets and can engage in community service (Year 11) and work experience/placement (Year 12).
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Performing Arts Music A separate booklet outlining the School’s Music facilities and program is available on request. The Director of Music, Mr Barry Walmsley, oversees an extensive team of class and specialist teachers based in the Music School near Futter Hall.
Individual Music Tuition A range of instruments are taught individually in the School including: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Guitar, Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Tuba, Euphonium, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, Bassoon, Percussion and Drum Kit, Singing, Piano, Pipe Organ (Piano Grade 5 is a prerequisite) and Harpsichord. If a boy wishes to commence tuition during the year, a letter or registration form (available from the Music School) indicating this to the Director of Music from a parent, is required. It is not always necessary for a boy to possess his own instrument when he starts learning, unless he is a day boy pianist. The School has a rental scheme for most instruments, except guitars. Once a boy has made reasonable progress, parents are asked to consider buying an instrument, and privately owned instruments should be insured by parents, taking care that the cover includes loss or damage whilst the instrument is at school, or in transit. Before a boy decides to learn an instrument, he should be enthusiastic and want to practice every day. Without daily practice, learning an instrument becomes a frustration for teacher and student. The School reserves the right to ask boys who are not progressing in accordance with their ability, to cease learning. In the early years, half an hour a day is a reasonable practice time, and after Grade IV longer practice time will be necessary.
Boys who learn orchestral or band instruments are required to participate in instrumental groups within the School. Piano and Voice students are expected to be members of at least one choral group. Theory/Musicianship lessons are available on an individual basis. Elective music as a school subject is a valuable option for all boys. Boys study a wide range of music including music theatre, pop, multimedia and classical genres. Music may be taken to Year 10, or continued as an HSC subject. If a boy wishes to discontinue instrumental tuition, the School requires four weeks’ notice in writing, or else the equivalent fee is charged.
Please contact the Music Administrative Assistant, Ms Gabriella Kovacs on (02) 9683 8424 to arrange individual tuition and receive a copy of the Music Department Handbook.
Drama And The King’s Theatre Drama remains one of the School’s most popular electives and with the vibrant Drama Centre, students have a dedicated, professionally equipped facility to learn drama and theatre craft. The Drama and Theatre staff present an academic program that develops confidence, communication, collaboration and selfexpression. The teaching of Drama allows King’s students to engage in a range of experiences recognising the contribution of actors, directors, playwrights, designers and technicians. Equally as important, the School equips students with interactive and communicative skills that will enrich every aspect of their personal and professional life.
The School recommends that only dedicated and able musicians have enough time to learn more than one instrument.
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The Drama Studio (a modern 200-seat black box theatre) allows students with the opportunity to perform in a professional setting and to develop highly technical skills in lighting, sound, design and stage management. Working in collaboration with the Drama Department, The King’s Theatre (an industry standard 350-seat theatre), is a venue for a vibrant program of drama and musical theatre. Theatrical performances take place several times a year at The King’s School, giving boys the opportunity to enjoy participating in a musical or dramatic production, free from the constraints of an academic subject. Students can experience the electricity of performing before a packed house. They can indulge their interests in acting, singing, dancing and playing in the orchestra – or working behind the scenes with stage management, lighting, sound and scenic design. In collaboration with the girls from Tara, the boys are afforded a cultural and social experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives.
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TRAVEL Dress Regulations – Weekdays and Saturdays Day boys travelling to and from the School on public transport are required to wear the full School uniform, including jacket and tie. As a concession to the hot climate, during Terms 1 and 4, the jacket and tie is not required to be worn when travelling to and from the School. Day boys travelling in Terms 2 and 3 by car to and from School are required to wear the full School uniform, including jacket and tie. If removed during the trip, the jacket must be brought to School and put on as soon as the student gets out of the car. Boys who are driven to and from sporting fixtures may wear the appropriate sports uniform under the King’s tracksuit. All boys must wear the King’s tracksuit over their sports uniform when travelling to an away fixture or walking in the School grounds. In winter, when the School is host on Saturdays, full School uniform will be worn at all times.
Day Boy Travel Day boys who are entitled to use Government Rail and Bus or Ferry services or Private Bus services may apply for a student Opal card online at https://apps. transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts. Once issued, the free student Opal card may be used from Monday to Friday to get to and from home and school. The free student Opal card is not able to be used at weekends, for sports travel or for use during school holidays. If parents have to drive their sons to the nearest railway station or bus stop by private vehicle they are eligible to apply for a private vehicle conveyance subsidy. Detailed information about bus services provided to enable students to travel to/ from School is available by contacting the Transport Supervisor Mr Mark Pearce, or Mrs Karen Austin on buses@kings.edu.au or visiting KingsNet. Please contact us if you would like your son to use one of these services.
Students are expected to wear the correct uniform for summer or winter to and from school, from when they leave home or school, in public or on buses. For information, refer to the School Diary. It is compulsory by law in NSW that all students wear seat belts at all times. Please note: No food or drink (apart from water) will be permitted on the School buses. Services include:
• Balgowlah / Mosman / Neutral Bay •B almain / Drummoyne / Gladesville / West Ryde
•N orth Kellyville / Bella Vista / Winston Hills
• Cammeray / Northbridge •G alston / Dural / Glenhaven / Kellyville •H olsworthy / Moorebank / Merrylands / Wentworthville
•W oolwich / Hunters Hill / Gladesville /
Eastern Suburbs Sunday Service is $26 (includes GST) per trip and Moss Vale Sunday Service is $38 per trip (includes GST) and will be charged to your School account at the end of the term. Afternoon return pick up times for all services are 3.30pm and 5.30pm, except Holsworthy which has only one pick up time at 3.30pm. Please note: No 5.30pm bus on Fridays. Parents must book a seat for their son/s (as applicable) on the bus service that The King’s School operates. Weekly boarders or any other boy travelling by school bus routes on Monday morning or Friday afternoon, must book their journeys as above. To apply for a seat on the King’s bus service, please complete the Application form on KingsNet. More information about bus services travelling to and from the School is available on KingsNet or by contacting:
Boronia Park
•H unters Hill (Prep only) / Tennyson Point / Putney
• L ane Cove / Longueville •R ouse Hill / The Ponds / Glenwood / Winston Hills
•S t Ives / Gordon •S trathfield / Concord / Rhodes / Newington
•W ahroonga / Thornleigh Weekly Services
•M oss Vale / Bowral / Mt Annan (Weekly Services)
•R ose Bay / Double Bay / Edgecliff (Weekly Services).
Service Costs The termly fee for the daily service is $411 (including GST) per term per student and will be charged to your School account at the beginning of the term.
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Mrs Karen Austin 02 9683 8588 kaustin@kings.edu.au
Motor Vehicles Boarders are not permitted to have motor vehicles garaged nearby or parked within the School grounds, unless approval has been given by the Head of Senior School. Day boys are permitted to park their vehicles in the School grounds above the JS White Oval following application to, and formal approval from, the School Sergeant. Parents should exercise their own judgement as to whether their son should be permitted to travel in a car driven by a student. The School requires documentation from a parent who is allowing their son to drive other boys to School. The School is not in a position to “police” such arrangements.
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The King’s Community A very warm welcome to The King’s School Community! And congratulations on choosing The King’s School for your family. You will find, that the King’s experience is so much more than an education. You will build lifelong friendships on the side of the sports fields, in the seats at concerts and theatrical performances and at social events.
Sporting Clubs Sporting Clubs are run by parents of current students and operate alongside the Master-in-Charge, for the benefit of the students of the School and King’s as a community. In 2021, the Clubs include: • Basketball Club • Cricket Club • Football Club • Rowing Club
We invite you to be ‘all in’ and make the most of the journey!
• Rugby Club
Get Involved!
• Tennis Club
KingsNet is the School’s communication platform for parents – please visit the King’s Community pages for more detail on what is lightly touched on here. Art Lovers Wonderful opportunities for our parent community to immerse themselves in the art shows, expos and art activities. Friends of Music A parent support group which actively involves itself in fundraising and concert/event support and co-ordination to support our great Music Department in their work with the boys. Parents’ Association (EngageKings) The Senior School Parents’ Association is operating as KingsEngage and is currently in the process of reframing the Association as a School-wide parent association available to all parents (past and present) across our three campuses. It offers opportunities to the parent body through a program of social events, projects, engagement of parent expertise in strategic support of the boys and the School, and a newly forming ambassador program. KingsEngage partners closely with the School through the Community Engagement Office, and looks to collaborate with all the groups, networks, clubs and associations who are working to enhance parent engagement opportunities across our community. Please contact the Community Engagement office to get involved.
• Snow Sports Club All volunteers interacting with students through involvement with projects, in the classroom or attending excursions/ tours, must have a validated Working with Children Check, required by law, before they can assist the School. They should also attend a ‘Parent Volunteer Induction Seminar’. King’s Community Church A family church meets at the beautiful King’s Chapel at 9.30am every Sunday, where Reverend Matthew Pickering is the Community Chaplain. There is also a parent prayer group every Friday morning at the Chapel from 8.30am where you would be warmly welcomed. King’s School Foundation The culture of philanthropy which underpins the tradition of giving at The King’s School, began with the School’s establishment in 1831 and continues today. Our donors have acted as custodians of the School’s future through their generous gifts to protect both the rich heritage of the School and the unique, cutting-edge education for King’s boys from generation to generation. If you have an interest in philanthropy, please contact community@ kings.edu.au and we will connect you with projects where you can volunteer your time and/or expertise.
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I know you will enjoy the wonderful TKS Senior School experience and the very warm and welcoming Reverend Stephen Edwards, his leadership team and the great staff at the School. Please also feel free to contact the Community Engagement office. We are here to support and help you as parents with anything that will help your engagement with the broader community and its networks. Don’t forget to review the King’s Community section of KingsNet for TKS school groups with which you may also want to engage. Once a King’s Family – always a King’s family. Rose Thomson Head of Community Engagement
How to Contact Us Email: community@kings.edu.au Login in to KingsNet and visit the King’s Community pages for more detail https://kingsnet.kings.edu.au/kingscommunity/kings-community/kingscommunity-overview Call 9683 8413 or 9683 8613
School Shop The Braeside Shop
Closed – Australia Day, 26 January 2021.
Clothing Pool
The School Foundation runs the Braeside Shop, a fully-stocked shop at the School. It is situated in Ryrie Road, beside The King’s Theatre. Items purchased can be charged to Visa, Mastercard or EFTPOS. The Braeside Shop stocks all School uniform clothing requirements, including school shoes. New school clothing is only available from the Shop.
All NSW parents please note:
Located inside the Braeside Shop, the Clothing Pool stocks second hand School uniform. It relies on the School community for stock, therefore not all sizes will always be available. Please contact the Braeside Shop for further details.
Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 8.00am–4.00pm Saturday: 8.00am–1.00pm (during term time) Last trading day of 2020 Friday 4 December 2020 January 2021 Shop re-opens on Monday 11 January 2021 Monday to Friday only until school resumes, then Monday to Saturday.
To avoid your son missing out on some uniform items, it is strongly recommended that you outfit your son before the end of Term 4, 2020. January outfittings are allocated to overseas, interstate and late enrolment students only. For a full outfitting, an appointment must be made with the Braeside Shop prior to arrival. Please allow an hour for the outfitting.
Phone: 02 9683 8463 Fax: 02 9683 8480 Email: braesideshop@kings.edu.au or uniformshop@kings.edu.au
School Term Dates 2021 TERM 1
TERM 3
School commences
Thursday 28 January
Term concludes Camps week Easter
Wednesday 31 March Thursday 25 March - Wednesday 31 March
Tuesday 13 July Thursday 16 September
Classes conclude for Years 11 and 12 after Graduation Friday 17 September
Sunday 25 April
TERM 4
TERM 2 Boarders in residence by 8.00pm
Monday 19 April
Classes commence
Tuesday 20 April
Classes conclude
Monday 12 July
Classes commence Classes commence or Years 7 to 10
Good Friday, 2 April - Easter Monday, 4 April
Anzac Day
Boarders in residence by 8.00pm
Boarders in residence by 8.00pm
Friday 18 June
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Tuesday 5 October
Classes commence
Wednesday 6 October
Classes conclude after Speech Night
Thursday 2 December
The King’s School Map Senior School Houses Senior School Academic precinct Senior School Facilities
s
Cricket Net
6
5
1
4
Bishop Barker Harris
1
4
2
9 10
Tennis Courts 3
6
11 12
Wa d
ad
eR o
Macarthur Waddy
5
8
4
7
The Stables
Wickham
d ien m Fr iu S as W ymn G
d Wa
Broughton Forrest
Baker Hake
PO
Kurrle
Britten
nte
Ca
Tennis Courts
eR
en
Dalmas Burkitt
Art
d
oa
ll
Ha
L
CL
Ca
det
HQ
oad
sel lR
s
Ru
Macquarie
ia
str
Ind u
oa d
sell
Roa
y
ntr
d
ad
s
l Ar t
hW alk
Wa lk
No rt
ills tH
ol E cho
Ro
uth
So
P a Gr rade ou nd
er
Fu tt
sic
Mu
nan
in S Ma
Pen
Rus
ry
JS White Oval
Ent
Ry rie R
Harris Courts
gy
Din ing Rm
S Ce port nt s re
Fo H T o Ce ealth ech d no ntr lo e
OL
3
War Memorial Chapel
ate lG
Ch
Preparatory School 1 Prep Administration 2 Horrocks Hall 3 K-2 Centre
7
Doyle Fields
2
Hay Shed
2
5
Gowan Brae
GB Tennis Courts
Price Fields
5
1
A28
es
eri
eliv
il/D
Ma
4 Science & Technology
Mountain Bike Track
3
1 Price Fields 8
4
OL
2
m
seu
ito
Sc Ce ienc ntr e e
ICT
on
pti
S ap utto lai r R nc oa y d
We s
5 The Dalleywater Centre
N
1
1 lds
’ Fie
6
3
Ma son
Ag Plo t
DA M
ad Ro
ape
ills
Ch tH nan
o Wade R ad Pen
Su
rR oa d Th ea t re Ad Br mi n Sh aes op ide
6 After School Care 7 Kingsbridge
2 s Field r Lowe ie Mass
2
s Boy Old
ars The Ced
A28
23
d
tW alk
ce
Re
Bu rsa r ss ell Ro ad
Ru
Mu
8 Prep Pavilion and Toilets
3 ie Mass
rs’ dere Wan Field n lica ls ir Ang Tara ol for G o Sch
7
The Aviary
oa
rR
tto Su
mas Pav Memor ilion ial Tho
Dr am a
Ar Ry n Tro ott R rie R ph oa yH m d all
sD rive
Basketball
PO
RIGHTS RESERVED: The information in the School Handbooks is accurate at the time of publication,
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but the School reserves the right to alter any of the arrangements outlined in the Handbooks at any time.
029_TKS 09/2020
www.kings.edu.au | P: +612 9683 8555 | E: tks@kings.edu.au | A: PO Box 1 Parramatta 2124, NSW Australia Cricos No: 02326F | The Council of The King’s School, ABN: 24 481 364 152 | Incorporated by The King’s School Council Act 1893