DCPS Parents Handbook Master 2019_DCS Parents Handbook 2009 07/06/2019 17:52 Page cov1
Preparatory School Handbook for Parents September 2019
D E A N DC CLOSE CHELTENHAM
Ages 7 - 13 PREPARATORY SCHOOL DCPS Parents Handbook Master 2019_DCS Parents Handbook 2009 07/06/2019 17:52 Page cov2 DCPS Parents Handbook Master 2019_DCS Parents Handbook 2009 07/06/2019 17:52 Page 1
PREPARATORY SCHOOL WELCOME :
WELCOME
Welcome to the Dean Close Preparatory School Handbook for Parents and Guardians.
The purpose of this Handbook is, above all else, to be a help to you as parents as your child embarks on their time at Dean Close Preparatory School. We count it as a wonderful privilege to be involved in the formation of young lives. The relationship which we cultivate with you is at the heart of our success and we look forward to working in close partnership with you. The Handbook does not set out to replace, but rather complement, the important personal communication which will continue throughout your child’s time with us. We hope it will come to be an important source of information.
We have done all we can to make sure that most questions about policies, academic structure and our pastoral system are answered within these pages, along with the more important day to day information such as dress codes, timetables and contact details.
Paddy Moss ~ Headmaster
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PREPARTORY SCHOOL CONTENTS :
CONTENTS
Page Page Page CONTACTING THE SCHOOL 3 CHORISTERS 13 COMMUNICATION AND PARENTAL LINKS 25 The Office 3 The Staff 13 The Staff 3 Contact Details 13 The Welcome Pack 25 The Houses 3 School Uniform 13 Publications 25 Day Houses 3 Choristers’ Daily Schedule 13 The Weekly Bulletin 25 Boarding Houses 3 Hermes 25 Other Useful Numbers SPEECH AND DRAMA 14 E-News 25 and Email Addresses 4 The Young Decanian 25 Website/Extranet 4 Drama 14 Contacting Home 4 Class Drama 14 Parents’ Notice Boards 25 Communication of Speech and Drama 14 Website 25 School Activities 4 Drama Scholarships 14 Email 25 Twitter 25 DAILY ROUTINE 5 SPORT 15 Facebook 25 Instagram 25 The Start of the Day 5 Games 15 Calendars 25 Day Pupil Absence 5 Teams 15 Morning and Afternoon Breaks 5 Swimming 15 School Calendar 25 Lunch Time 5 Private and Group Lessons 16 Fixtures Calendars 25 The End of the Day 5 Gum Shields 16 Reports/Parents’ Meetings 25 Parents in School 5 Physical Education 16 Parents’ Events 25 Dog Walkers’ Policy 5 Sports Scholarships and Awards 16 Parents’ Society 25 Daily Schedule 6 Contacting the Staff 16 Business Club 25 Saturday School 6 School Website/Parent App 16 Pick-up Times 6 UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE 26 Years 3–5 6 CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES 17 Years 6–8 6 Dean Close School Shop 26 List of Clubs and Activities 17 Chapel Services and Opening Times during term time 26 Dancing 17 School Worship 6 Appointments 26 Half-Term and Exeats 6 USE OF INFORMATION The Uniform Exchange 27 Opening Times 27 FUTURE TERM DATES 7 COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY 18 To purchase items 27 Acceptable Use of To donate items 27 ACADEMIC INFORMATION 8 IT Policy Agreement 18 Mobile Phones 18 Curriculum 8 PUPILS’ CODE OF CONDUCT 28 Junior Forms (Years 3–5) 8 Senior Forms (Years 6–8) 8 PASTORAL INFORMATION 19 Academic Work 28 Form Teachers / House Tutors 8 The House System 19 Equipment 28 Prep 8 Chaplaincy 19 Library 28 Learning Support 8 PSHCE 19 Appearance 28 English as an Additional Chapel and Worship 29 Language (EAL) 9 BOARDING 20 Sporting and Cultural Activities 29 Outings and Year 8 Relationships 29 Leavers’ Course 9 Aims & Principles of Boarding 20 Bounds and Presence at School 29 Examinations 9 Boarding Community 20 Transport 30 Other Dean Close Communication 20 Buses 30 Scholarships and Awards 10 Letters Home 21 Transfer to Dean Close After School 21 Cars 30 School and House Allocation 10 Bedtimes 21 Bicycles 30 11+ Scholarship 10 Full Boarding 21 Property 30 Bursaries 10 Pocket Money 21 Prohibitions 31 Assessment and Monitoring 11 Tuck 21 Rewards and Sanctions 31 Tracking Pupil Potential Day Boarding 22 Golden Credits 31 and Progress 11 Children Living Overseas 22 Credits 31 Passports/Visas 22 Monitoring Pupil Progress 11 Debits 31 Guardians 22 Effort Grades 11 Detention 31 Reports 11 Escorted Travel 22 School Eco Code 31 Parents’ Meetings 11 MEDICAL INFORMATION 23 MUSIC 12 SCHOOL BUSES INFORMATION 32 First Aid Policy 23 Class Music 12 Medical Treatment for Pupils 23 BURSARY INFORMATION 34 Instrumental Lessons 12 Records for New Pupils 24 Medical Examination 24 Singing 12 Payment of Fees 34 Music Groups 12 Immunisations 24 Insurance 34 Music Scholarships and Awards 12 Food 24 Dental, Optical, Extras 34 Orthodontist Appointments 24 Optional extras 34 Insurance 24 Notice of leaving 34 Policies 34
THE STAFF 35
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL CONTACTING THE SCHOOL :
CONTACTING THE SCHOOL
THE OFFICE The Headmaster is always available to see parents and can be contacted via his PA, Mrs Sara Clark, [email protected] The Prep School Office is situated at the front of The Centenary Hall If your child is in Years 3 - 5, in the first instance, Open: Weekdays 8.00am – 5.00pm communication should be with the Houseparents. Parents can Saturdays 8.00am – 12.30pm also contact Form Teachers with any other matters. Telephone 01242 512217 If your child is in Years 6 - 8 initial contact should be with the All emails should be sent to the School Office email address – House Tutor, parents can also contact Houseparents, should [email protected] they need to.
On the subject line of your email please put ‘For the attention of: or FAO’ and write the name of the Houseparent / Form THE HOUSES Teacher / House Tutor / Subject Teacher. Alternatively, staff may be emailed directly but this route should not be used for urgent Day Houses matters. Deacon 01242 258028 [email protected] Please allow staff 24 hours to respond. Oaksey 01242 258083 [email protected] All incoming mail must be handed in to the Prep School Office. Yeaman 01242 258085 [email protected]
THE STAFF Boarding Houses It is our aim to work very closely with parents and guardians to promote the education and welfare of each pupil. All members Fortfield 01242 258030 [email protected] of staff are happy to be contacted to discuss the progress of Caldecote 01242 258014 [email protected] any pupil and we use a wide range of printed and electronic means to keep parents and guardians informed, as well as the Wilton 01242 258012 [email protected] many opportunities that arise for face-to-face discussions. The Headmaster will always be made aware of any significant issues regarding pupils. Often the Deputy Heads will become If you do not get through to these numbers, out of hours, you involved in the day to day dealings with parents as will the can always leave a message on the School Office number. Headmaster when appropriate.
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PREPARTORY SCHOOL CONTACTING THE SCHOOL :
OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS AND EMAIL WEBSITE/EXTRANET ADDRESSES Useful information such as staff emails, Hermes, the half term Warden Mrs E Taylor mailing, fixture maps, fixture lists and calendars as well as [email protected] information about your child’s curriculum can be found on the parents’ area of the website: www.deanclose.org.uk/ Mrs R Green 01242 258092 Warden’s PA mydeanclose. For log in details, contact the School Office [email protected] 01242 512217. Headmaster Mr P Moss 01242 512217 [email protected] CONTACTING HOME
Headmaster’s PA Mrs S Clark 01242 512217 It is important that parents (and guardians where appropriate) [email protected] keep the School Office informed whenever address, email address or phone numbers are changed. Pupils can call home Deputy Head (Operations) Mr J Harris 01242 512217 with the permission of House staff. [email protected] COMMUNICATION OF SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Academic Director Mr J Gould 01242 512217 [email protected] You will receive a copy of the School calendar each term via email, covering events during the following term. This has all Director of Studies Mr K Donnelly 01242 512217 the basic information about times and dates. [email protected] Every Friday, we email parents the weekly newsletter called Mrs L Hunt 01242 512217 Head of Pastoral Hermes. It is a vital channel of communication, often including [email protected] revised games arrangements or special notices, therefore, please familiarize yourself with it each week. Small amounts of Chaplain Rev J Ash 01242 258000 [email protected] paper copies are also available in the Day and Boarding Houses and from the Front Office. Director of Music Mr T McVittie 07881 940090 [email protected] Also on a Friday the Weekly Bulletin is uploaded onto the website. This contains letters and information about the week Director of Sport Mr J Sutherland 01242 512217 ahead as well as copies of the daily update sheet – the Daily [email protected] Bulletin. Throughout the week the Daily Bulletin is circulated to all houses and buildings.. For parents, copies are posted inside Designated Safeguarding Lead & Head of Girls’ Games Rickerby, Ferguson and the Day Houses. Texts and emails will Mrs E Bailey 01242 512217 [email protected] be sent using Clarion Call in the event of a reminder or urgent information. If you are not receiving any messages, please Mrs L Lawrence 01242 512217 Director of Drama check at the School Office that your details are correct. [email protected]
Head of Learning Support Mrs J Cahill 01242 512217 [email protected]
DCPS Office 01242 512217 [email protected]
Head of Admissions Mrs R Chaplin 01242 258001 [email protected]
Bursary Secretary 01242 258086 [email protected]
Accounts Mrs L Roberts 01242 258042 [email protected]
Health Centre 01242 258046 Mobiles 07759 592–988, 989, 990, 991 [email protected]
Headmaster (Senior School) Mr B Salisbury 01242 258000 [email protected]
Headmaster’s PA (Senior School) Mrs J Bond 01242 267401 [email protected]
Headmistress (Pre-Preparatory School) Dr C Shelley 01242 258079 [email protected]
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL THE DAILY ROUTINE :
THE DAILY ROUTINE
THE START OF THE DAY
Children may arrive in their Houses from 7.45am onwards and staff will be in the Houses ready to welcome them. The School day officially begins with registration in the Houses promptly at 8.15am. Children who are late should report to the School Office to sign in. No Day Pupils should arrive on the School site before 7.45am (the time from which Houses are staffed).
DAY PUPIL ABSENCE
Any request for absence from School must be in a letter addressed to the Headmaster. Please try and respect the term dates and make holiday arrangements in holiday time. To minimise disruption to academic lessons, any medical appointments should be made so they are outside School hours, unless absolutely necessary. Children must be signed out via the School Office if leaving the premises during the School day, i.e., for appointments and sign back in when they return. N.B. No child below Year 7 may sign him/herself out and no child may sign another child out without specific permission. Parents are required to notify the House and Office when a pupil is off ill. Pupils should return from illness with a note Matches generally take place on Wednesday and Saturday detailing the absence and if they are to be off games (if so for afternoons. Arrangements and pick-up times are posted on the how long). Without a written note to the House, pupils will be Games notice boards in the hallway of Rickerby and emailed expected to take part in PE and Games. on a Tuesday afternoon. Day children not involved in Saturday afternoon matches or practices go home at the earlier time of MORNING AND AFTERNOON BREAKS 12.10pm. Your child may choose to take part in an after-school activity, in which case they should find out at what time it During morning break and lunch break children are supervised finishes (usually by 6.00pm), and make arrangements as they play in the CPA (Covered Play Area) or, if the weather is accordingly. There is always someone on duty in the House dry, on the School playing fields. until 6.00pm. At 6.00pm the Day Houses close.
Children in Years 3–4 also have their own supervised play area If you know you are going to be late to collect your child please outside Rickerby. Children are provided with a drink and a telephone the appropriate Day House to let duty staff know (by snack during morning break. The afternoon break at 4.20pm 6.00pm). If you can foresee a problem for a particular day, (Buns) is held at the end of lessons on a Monday, Tuesday, please do come and discuss it. With advance warning, we can Thursday and Friday and provides children with a drink and usually make arrangements to help. biscuit or cake. Years 3–5 can then do an activity at 4.35pm or be signed out, whilst the children in Years 6–8 go into a prep At half term and the end of term special times are published for period in set rooms until 5.15pm; except on Fridays when they the end of School. can leave at 4.35pm. Year 8 finish prep slightly later at 5.30pm. PARENTS IN SCHOOL LUNCH TIME It is important for the children to develop their own Lunch is served by cafeteria staff. Children eat together in the independence and organisational skills: children in Years 3–5 dining room. High priority is given to the development of good or new pupils will need that initial support from parents, as they table manners. If your child requires any special dietary settle into the school routine. We do ask parents to encourage provision, please let us have the information in writing and we their children into School on their own from the drop off point, will cater for his/her needs. All the School food is cooked on the and to get kit bags to changing rooms and school bags to premises and no nuts are added. A vegetarian or salad option Houses or bag racks on their own as soon as they are able. and fruit are always available as an alternative to the main Parents are requested not to enter into any classrooms during course and pudding. lesson time, or to be on site during regular games times. For reasons of Safeguarding, parents are asked not to go into During the lunch break children are free to play, if they do not changing rooms, but to ask a member of staff if there is a have clubs, until afternoon registration. problem. Please see staff before or after School, or email them for an appointment. THE END OF THE DAY Parents are warmly welcomed to all events in the Calendar that For safety reasons, the School must know when pupils are off are marked in bold. site. We ask for parents’ full cooperation to ensure children are signed out as they leave School. DOG WALKERS’ POLICY
Pupils should be signed out by parents from Day Houses. Year Dogs on leads are allowed on the School paths, but not on any 7 and 8 pupils may sign themselves out at the end of the day of the playing fields. It is vital that all dog mess is cleared up with direct consent from the duty staff. because of the risk of Toxocariasis.
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PREPARTORY SCHOOL DAILY SCHEDULE :
2019-2020 TIMETABLE
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
8.15am House Registration
8.30-9.20am Form / Tutor Time Assembly Form / Tutor Time Headmaster’s Form / Tutor Time 8.30am Assembly Lesson 1
9.20 - 10.10am Lesson 1 Lesson 1 Lesson 1 Lesson 1 Lesson 1 8.50am Lesson 2
10.10 - 11.00am Lesson 2 Lesson 2 Lesson 2 Lesson 2 Lesson 2 9.50am Lesson 3
10.50am Break
11.20 - 12.10pm Lesson 3 Lesson 3 Lesson 3 Lesson 3 Lesson 3 11.15am Lesson 4
12.15pm Lesson 4 Games / Lesson 4 Congo Lesson 4 Lesson 4
Early Lunch / Music Early Lunch / Music Early Lunch / Early Lunch / Music Early Lunch / Music 1.00pm Lesson / Ensembles Lesson / Ensembles Matches Lesson / Ensembles Lesson / Ensembles
Junior Activities Junior Activities Junior Activities Junior Activities 1.15pm Senior Lunch Senior Lunch Senior Lunch Senior Lunch
Senior Activities Senior Activities Senior Activities Senior Activities 1.45pm Jr Form Prep Jr Form Prep Jr Form Prep Jr Form Prep
2.10pm Registration Registration Home Time / Registration Registration Games / Matches Games / Matches Lesson 5 Lesson 5 Lesson 5 Chapel / Hall Service 2.20pm Pupils not in matches may Games (Unless Games / Lesson 6 Lesson 6 Lesson 6 3.20pm leave at 3.30pm Chapel Service)
4.20pm Buns Buns Buns Buns
4.35pm Senior Prep Senior Prep Senior Prep Sign out Sign out From Sign out Sign out Sign out 5.15pm
SATURDAY SCHOOL CHAPEL SERVICES AND SCHOOL WORSHIP Saturday is a normal School day for all children in Year 6 and Our weekly Chapel and Hall services are part of the School above. There is a full academic programme, which finishes at day. We aim to offer different styles of worship during the 12.10pm and often there are matches in the afternoon. Day School year, including more contemporary styles. Informal children not involved in matches or squad practices are free to Boarders’ Worship takes place in the Hall on Sundays (usually leave from 12.10pm. 6.30pm).
PICK-UP TIMES HALF TERM AND EXEATS Years 3–5 The dates are printed at the back of the termly calendar. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 4.35pm Each term there is a half term and fixed exeats when all Wednesday 3.30pm or end of match. boarders go out with parents or guardians. We ask the parents Saturday activities or guardians to arrange for all children to leave the School on exeat weekends. Years 6–8 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 5.15pm. (Year 8, 5.30pm) Wednesday 3.30pm or end of match. Friday 4.35pm Saturday12.10pm or end of match or practice.
All matches are to be found in the termly Girls’ and Boys’ Fixture Cards, and are confirmed or amended in the weekly Hermes and daily Bulletin. Text messages will be sent to parents in the event of last minute cancellation.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL FUTURE TERM DATES :
FUTURE TERM DATES
Michaelmas Term 2019 Tuesday 3rd September Friday 14th December Monday 2nd September (Boarders return at 4.00pm) Exeat: Friday 27th September (3.45pm) Sunday 29th September Half Term: Friday 18th October (1.00pm) Sunday 3rd November Exeat: Friday 22nd November (3.45pm) Sunday 24th November
Lent Term 2020 Tuesday 7th January Friday 27th March (12.00noon) Monday 6th January (Boarders return at 4.00pm) Exeat: Friday 24th January (4.00pm) Sunday 26th January Half Term: Friday 14th February (4.00pm) Sunday 23rd February Exeat: Friday 6th March (3.45pm) Sunday 8th March
Trinity Term 2020 Wednesday 21st April Saturday 4th July (1.00pm) Tuesday 20th April (Boarders return at 4.00pm) Exeat: Thursday 7th May (4.15pm after lessons) Sunday 10th May Half Term: Friday 22nd May (3.45pm) Sunday 31st May Flexible Exeat: Friday 19th June - Pupils may leave at 4.35pm after Games. (Boarders wishing to remain in their boarding houses over the weekend may do so, but there is no Saturday School). Boarders return on Sunday 21st June.
BOARDERS return from 4pm at the start of each term with tea provided at 6pm. At the end of exeats and half terms boarders must return by 7.30pm and Houses will be open from 6.00pm, but no tea is provided. Please could parents notify Houseparents where their child is going for exeats and half term either by email or letter and include travel details and contact numbers if they are not coming home with you.
DAY PUPILS return on the following day.
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PREPARTORY SCHOOL ACADEMIC INFORMATION :
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
CURRICULUM
The main aim of our curriculum is to offer a broad, balanced and stimulating education. We extend our most able pupils and offer the necessary support for pupils who find academic work more challenging. The academic curriculum is based upon the National Curriculum in Years 3 - 6 and an independent curriculum in Years 7 - 9. Throughout the School pupils are taught by specialist teachers for French, Art, Music, DT, PE and Games.
Junior Forms (Years 3–5)
All pupils in the Junior Prep study the following subjects:
• English • Art • Mathematics • Design Technology • Science • Computing • French • Drama • History • Music • Geography • Physical Education • Religious Studies • Games
weekly spellings and Maths tables. Year 4 may also be given In Years 4 and 5 pupils are taught in their form classes for all some written Maths or English work as approriate. In Year 5 subjects and are divided into sets for Maths and Spelling. On pupils will be set Maths and English prep on a regular basis. the whole, the same curriculum is followed in both sets, but the Spelling, reading and the learning of Maths tables will be pace of teaching will vary with faster, more challenging work ongoing. being set for the more able and the necessary support and reinforcement work being offered for pupils who need it. A prep timetable is issued to pupils from Years 6–8 at the start of the year. Years 6–8 attend a formal prep time as part of the Senior Forms (Years 6–8) School day from 4.35pm–5.15pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Year 8 finish prep slightly later at 5.30pm. Pupils are set for English, Maths, Science and French. Pupils in Years 3-5 are expected to take their book bags home We aim to plan our form structure so that it meets the needs of each evening. This allows parents to see the work being the pupils in that year group, in the best way possible, and so studied at School and help with learning vocabulary, spellings, that there may be some flexibility from year to year. All pupils revision for tests and examinations as appropriate. follow the ISEB examinations curriculum for: The expectation is that preps will be completed on time and to • English • History the standard of written work undertaken in class. Prep should • Mathematics • Geography not be a burden for either pupils or parents and we aim to • Biology • Religious Studies ensure there is smooth progression through Senior Prep to Year • Chemistry • Spanish 9 in terms of expectation. • Physics • Computing • French Learning Support
Pupils in the top forms also study Latin. The department offers a range of support in the areas of literacy and numeracy. Teaching staff and parents are Form Teachers and House Tutors consulted before any learning support commences. Specialist tuition, individual, paired or in small groups, is tailored to Pupils in Years 3 - 5 have a Form Teacher who they will see individual needs based on a withdrawal system. The School regulary. Pupils in Years 6 - 8 have a House Tutor who they will may charge for the provision of Learning Support where this see three times a week to check they are keeeping on top of constitutes reasonable adjustment and is provided as a their academic studies and to support their personal response to a proven disability. development. The department offers specialist support for pupils with mild Prep dyslexia and provides a structured course to develop spelling, literacy, comprehension and study skills. A wide variety of The School day at Dean Close Prep School is long and full and multisensory techniques are used. The School has close links therefore pupils are not expected to spend hours working after with local Educational Psychologists, a Speech and School at home. Prep is set to provide reinforcement or Language Therapist and an Occupational Therapist and may consolidation work for topics covered in lessons. In Year 3 and advise parents to seek a full assessment to confirm any 4 pupils are expected to read their reading book, learn their specific difficulties.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL ACADEMIC INFORMATION :
EXAMINATIONS
Throughout the academic year all pupils will sit modular based assessments in all academic subjects. The results of these assessments will be shared with the children and used to identify key targets for their development.
Pupils in Years 3-7 will take more formal examinations in the Trinity Term, the results of which will be recorded on the end of term school report. These assessments are used to identify pupil’s strengths and areas for further development. Pupils are also taught a range of revision techniques and are reminded that while exams are important, they are just one way of measuring progress.
13+ Common Entrance
Pupils offered a place in Year 7 will transfer automatically to Dean Close Senior School. However, each year there will be pupils about whom we will have concerns, usually academic, which lead us to communicate with parents about the best choice of senior school for their son or daughter. After all, we all want the very best for the young people and sometimes there are very good reasons why Dean Close School is not the most appropriate choice.
Sometimes, projected problems might be to do with the academic expectations of Dean Close School with regard to GCSE choices. All pupils at DCS will be expected to move towards courses which will involve them taking nine or ten GCSE subjects. Occasionally, a pupil would be better served heading for a school that might require fewer subjects to be taken at GCSE, but with more work targeted in various areas to achieve the best possible success.
The length of time a pupil has spent with us will influence when we will broach any concerns we have over progress in the short, medium and long term and how these might be best English as an Additional Language (EAL) addressed. We know from transfer situations in the past how important it is to match pupils with academic environments Language support is provided for pupils whose first language where they will be able to produce their best and for which they is not English. Each pupil is assessed on admission, and a will be appropriately suited. personal programme of study is developed, based on ability and need. Lessons, individual or in small groups, cover vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation, in the context of the core linguistic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Support is also given to students across the curriculum. A charge for EAL lessons and related course books is added to the student’s bill each term. The duration of EAL support is flexible and progress is continually monitored. Pupils are encouraged to integrate fully into School life as much as possible.
Outings and the Year 8 Leavers’ Course
There are a variety of outings for each year group throughout the year. You will be informed about these in advance. Children are normally expected to wear best uniform and a small amount of pocket money may be required.
Following Year 8 end of year examinations in June, Year 8 pupils embark on what has become known as the ‘Leavers’ Course’. This involves an educational programme of great variety until the end of the Trinity Term, including the legendary week of camping and outdoor pursuits in North Devon, in conjunction with St. George’s Outdoor Pursuit Centre. As the pupils prepare to move on to the next stage of their education, the Leavers’ Course is a fitting way of drawing to a close their time in the Prep School.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL ACADEMIC INFORMATION :
Other Dean Close Scholarships and Awards Transfer to Dean Close School and House Allocation
The Senior School offers a number of other awards at 13+ in The majority of pupils in Year 8 transfer to Dean Close School Music, Drama, Art, Design & Technology, Sports and a to continue their education. The Senior School allocates pupils Foundation Award. The criteria for these awards are published from the Prep School into various Houses during the Lent Term separately; please contact the Academic Director directly for of Year 8. Enough places for all DCPS pupils in Senior School further information. Candidates for the Foundation Award will Houses are reserved. The Senior School endeavours to meet be expected to produce a sound academic performance and the preferences of parents wherever possible, but House to show excellence in at least two other areas, as well as giving allocation is finally at the discretion of the Headmaster of the evidence of service or leadership in the community. Deadlines Senior School. Parents who wish to express a preference for award applications are at the end of November. should contact the Registrar at Dean Close Senior School as early as possible. All those already holding Awards in Year 8 will meet with the relevant DCS Head of Department so that progress can be 11+ Scholarship assessed. Awards are rarely reduced at this stage and very occasionally they are increased if a pupil has made substantial These are offered for Foundation, Academic, Drama, Music, Art progress since the original Award was given. and Sport. They take place in the Lent Term of Year 6. Details of the scholarship process are provided separately; please Decisions about who should be entered for Awards at 13+ are contact the Academic Director for further information. made on recommendations from Heads of Department and the final decision on all Awards rests with the DCS Headmaster. If Awards are open to internal and external candidates. External you would like to discuss the possibility of your child entering candidates will be charged a registration fee of £100.00. for an Award, please make contact with the Academic Director Parents of pupils currently in the School will be advised about at the earliest opportunity. the suitability of their child being entered for a Scholarship in writing by the Deputy Head (Academic) or relevant Head of Department during the Michaelmas Term.
Awards made at 11+ usually carry on to the Senior School until such time as the pupil leaves Dean Close. Awards are subject to good behaviour, academic endeavour and a full commitment to the whole life of the School. They are reviewed annually.
Bursaries
Dean Close will make every effort to make attendance possible if the right ability and potential are evident. In line with all HMC and IAPS Schools, Scholarships and Exhibitions can be supported by bursaries where financial need is demonstrated.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL ACADEMIC INFORMATION :
ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING Effort Grades
Tracking Pupil Potential and Progress Pupils will be given effort cards three times per academic year to provide feedback to pupils about their work. Pupils will be Pupil progress is tracked throughout the year in a number of given a grade from 1-6, with 1 being the highest, for all different ways. These include ongoing teacher assessment, subjects on their:- end of unit tests, end of year exams and standardised tests. • Attitude towards learning The latter are externally marked and moderated. Results from these assessments are collated onto a central database by the • Independence and Perseverance Academic Director and used for monitoring pupil progress. • Organisation and Punctuality • Prep and Home Learning (Independent Study) A Cognitive Ability Test (CAT4) is also used, in conjunction with attainment data, to determine whether or not pupils are A comment is made on the assessment sheet by the pupil’s reaching their potential. The CATs are developed by GL Form Teacher or House Tutor. They then talk through the effort Assessment and explore four key areas of development: grades with each pupil individually and discuss a suitable Verbal, Quantitative, Non-Verbal and Spatial. None of these target or targets to achieve over the next half of term. If a pupil require special preparation. receives a 4 or below for any subject, they should be in no doubt as to what they need to do to improve their effort grade next time. Monitoring Pupil Progress
All pupils are assessed at regular intervals and parents will be Please be aware that a 3 is considered good as it shows that a informed of the progress being made. If, after an initial settling pupil is doing all that is required of them. in period any child is not making the necessary academic progress, staff will inform the Academic Director and Head of Reports Learning Support as soon as possible and a meeting will be set up with the parents. Appropriate action might include Every pupil will receive a target report at the end of the increased differentiation in class with more specific targets and, Michaelmas and Lent Term. This will outline each child’s implementation of Learning Support sessions as devised by individual targets for the coming term in all curriculum areas. the Head of Learning Support. It might also include referral to Pupils’ Form Teacher or House Tutor will talk through the target an Educational Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist card with the pupils to discuss suitable development in the or Occupational Therapist for further assessment. The cost of coming term. Parents will be given an opportunity to discuss such an assessment is met by the parents. It is anticipated that these targets during parents’ meetings. the contents of the assessment report should be shared with the School. At the end of the Trinity Term all pupils receive a full written report which include details of the progress made through the Where failure to make progress is attributed to delayed academic year. This will include a report from the Form Teacher developmental milestones, it may be deemed appropriate for or House Tutor, Houseparent and Headmaster. the child to repeat the year. If parents do not choose to take up the option of the Educational Psychologist, any decision about Parents’ Meetings the child will be based on regular in-School assessments. Parents will be advised by the School as to whether their child’s Formal meetings with parents are held twice a year. The aim of educational needs can be met within the School environment. these is to give verbal feedback on the progress of individual As part of the ongoing consultative process between staff and pupils. If parents have any concerns about the academic parents, and following discussion with the Headmaster, if it is progress of their child, they should speak to their child’s Form felt that Dean Close Preparatory School can no longer provide Teacher, House Tutor (Years 7 & 8) or the Academic Director. for the academic educational needs of the child, then the Pupils in older years are expected to join their parents for these parents will be given every support in seeking an alternative meetings as part of the process in Senior Prep of encouraging educational establishment. pupils to take more ownership of and responsibility for their academic performance.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL MUSIC :
MUSIC
Music is for everyone and every pupil in the Prep School will be SINGING encouraged to get involved in the many musical activities on Singing is one of the most enjoyable ways of taking part in offer and to take the opportunity to learn an instrument. music and develops many musical skills. Everyone is involved in class singing. In addition, there are two non-auditioned CLASS MUSIC School choirs. The Junior Choir is open to all those in Years 3, 4 and 5 where the emphasis is on developing a good choral The curriculum for class music is a holistic one, covering the technique through a wide repertoire of rounds, partsongs, three key musical disciplines of listening, composing and action songs, modern and traditional music. The Senior Choir is performing. The emphasis is on enjoyment and practical music open to Years 6, 7 and 8 and pupils will sing a wide range of making with pupils often using their own instruments in class music from the 15th century to the present day, including both sessions. Music theory and aural training is an integral part of sacred and secular. lessons and by the time pupils move on to the Senior School they will be well prepared for GCSE music and the more The Senior Choir regularly leads School services, as well as advanced players will have taken the Associated Board Grade performing in concerts both in and out of School. The most V Theory examination. As pupils move through the School, they advanced singers are auditioned to join the Chamber Choir, will have training in Music Technology and will be taught to use whose members regularly sing with the Senior Choir, but also their skills for composition and arranging. undertake a more ambitious repertoire for performance in School and further afield. INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS MUSIC GROUPS Currently over 75% of pupils learn at least one instrument. A staff of 30 peripatetic teachers provide tuition in all the Music Groups allow even those who have been playing for a instruments of the orchestra, as well as piano, drum-kit, guitar short time to experience the real thrill of playing with others. and saxophone. Singing lessons are also popular. The most advanced players will be given opportunities to play in small groups and some will be able to take part in Dean Pupils receive 30 lessons over the course of the academic Close School music activities. Throughout the Prep School, year. They will be expected to undertake regular practise and there is an emphasis on enjoyment and development of the full are encouraged to be involved in at least one musical activity. potential of every musician and the range of music groups will vary to some extent from year to year to cater for individual musician’s interests.
Those in Years 3-5 who have been playing a musical instrument for more than one year are expected to join Junior Orchestra. All pupils who take singing lessons are expected to be in a School Choir.
Groups currently available are: • Junior Choir • Flute Ensemble • Senior Choir • Saxophone Ensemble • Chamber Choir • Clarinet Ensemble • Junior Orchestra • Guitar Ensemble • Senior Orchestra • Rock & Pop Groups • String Quartets • Music Theory Groups • Senior Strings
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
Pupils are invited to apply for Music Awards in Year 6 and there will be auditions for internal and external candidates. The Director of Music will be looking for evidence of potential as well as achievement. Those who are successful will be eligible for a reduction in School fees and free tuition on a musical instrument. Music Awards are reviewed annually. It is expected that Music Scholars will show full commitment to School Music Groups and will be a member of the Senior Choir.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL CHORISTERS :
CHORISTERS
The Choristers who sing the weekday services at Tewkesbury r ea Y Abbey are educated at the Preparatory School. Their daily 2 e o th rehearsal takes place in the Song School in Hardy House. i f ad o R er C st B ri 8 B o 1 h 20 C THE STAFF g n u o Y The Choral Director Mr Simon Bell is supported by:
Jane Lyons (Chorister Tutor and Schola Cantorum Manager) Tomasz Holownia (Choral Scholar) Eleanor Carter (Organ Scholar) Ben Sawyer (Chorister Singing Tutor).
CONTACT DETAILS
Mr S Bell 01242 258091 [email protected]
NB Parents of any boys who are interested in discussing the possibility of a choristership should make contact with the Director of Schola Cantorum, Mr Simon Bell.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
All choristers need to have School blazers and choristers in Years 3–6 will need to have a white School shirt for certain occasions. These will be published in advance.
CHORISTERS’ DAILY SCHEDULE
For full schedule see Chorister Handbook.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL SPEECH AND DRAMA :
SPEECH AND DRAMA
DRAMA DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS
Drama is about many things – theatre, acting, developing At the discretion of the Drama Department, pupils in Year 6 and presentation skills and communication techniques, instilling Year 8 may be invited to apply for a Drama Scholarship. confidence, developing self-esteem and having fun! Speech and Drama at DCPS is a lively, exciting and thriving Two productions are performed annually – a Junior Forms’ Play discipline. The aim is to instil an appreciation and enjoyment (Years 3–5) and the School Play (Years 6–8). This gives every of communication and performance and to maximise the child in the School the opportunity to be involved either in potential of the individual and to instil an interest in the theatre. acting, dancing and singing on the stage, or behind the Pupils are actively encouraged to visit professional productions scenes on the production side, with make-up, costume, set to broaden their understanding of drama. design, sound and lighting. Recent productions include The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, Shakespeare on Trial, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Private Peaceful, The Railway Children, Beauty and the Beast, The Tempest, Oliver! The Musical, Honk! and Archie Dobson’s War.
All aspects of Speech and Drama are taught by specialist teachers who take the responsibility for directing the major productions, along with a close relationship with the Music Department and help from other staff members from various departments in the School.
CLASS DRAMA
All pupils in Years 3–6 in the Preparatory School have timetabled class Drama as part of the curriculum. In these lessons, pupils are encouraged to express themselves vocally and physically and learn to work with others in a group situation. They are also taught to listen and react to others.
SPEECH AND DRAMA
Speech and Drama lessons serve to focus attention on the individual, developing performance skills such as diction, expression, characterisation and communication skills. Pupils taking these lessons also benefit hugely from participating in the annual Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts and are entered for the LAMDA graded examinations in various disciplines; verse and prose, reading for performance, speaking in public and acting. Pupils perform in regular drama at teatime concerts.
Lessons are offered either individually, in a pair, or in a group, dependent on year group. Pupils receive 30 lessons over the course of the academic year and lessons are timetabled on a weekly rota basis.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL SPORT :
SPORT
The School has extensive sports pitches and facilities, including a 25 metre indoor swimming pool, Sports Centre including large gymnasium, fitness centre and dance studio, tennis courts, 2 astro-pitches (one of which is floodlit). However, the School’s continued success in sport is not just a reflection of the superb facilities, but of the high level professional coaches who support the academic staff in training the children during their games lessons.
GAMES
Sport plays a significant part in School life and the excellent facilities give children the opportunity to all find something they enjoy. The major games for the boys are rugby, hockey and cricket and for the girls hockey, netball, tennis and cricket. The major games are covered during timetabled games sessions on Monday and Tuesday as well as on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Throughout the School week children also participate in swimming, athletics and cross country running.
TEAMS
Teams compete at national, regional, county and local level. Tours for the School teams take place on a regular basis. It is School policy that every child has the opportunity to represent the School.
Matches against various schools in the area take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The children are divided into games according to age and ability. Matches are graduated in number so there are more as the pupils advance through the School.
Swimming
Swimming galas are arranged regularly throughout the year and an internal House Gala is held in the Lent Term. Swim training sessions take place throughout the week either early in the morning or after school. Year 3 have an additional, optional, swimming lesson on a Saturday morning.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL SPORT :
In the Trinity Term there is an Athletics Sports Day and the SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS opportunity for some to enter competitions outside the School. The Prep School offers Sports Awards to children from Year 7 Private and Group Lessons onwards. Candidates are asked to attend a day of assessment in Year 6 at which the School is looking for children with Our cricket and tennis professionals offer individual and potential who will benefit from the opportunities, facilities and group lessons (at an extra cost). Contact the sports coaching which the School can offer. department secretary, for further information. Contacting the Staff Gum Shields Depending on the enquiry, parents should contact the relevant It is compulsory for all pupils participating in hockey and rugby Team Coach, Head of Games or Director of Sport, either matches to wear a gum shield. Children will not be able to play directly or via the School Office. matches, or take part in practices, without them. School Website/Parent App Parental support is much appreciated at all matches and parents and friends are most welcome to stay for tea The School website and School sport portal can be used to afterwards. find fixture information, directions to other schools and weekly arrangements for games. This can be found under the sports section on the School website www.deanclose.org.uk To PHYSICAL EDUCATION access the team sheets, a password is required, which is available from the School Office. Pupils have Physical Education lessons throughout the year. In Years 3, 4 and 5 they concentrate on building up co-ordination, movement and ball skills, and follow a programme, which includes swimming, gymnastics, tennis and athletic activity. In Years 6, 7 and 8 the programme takes on a modular format with pupils usually covering 5 modules during the year, including swimming, trampolining, health related fitness, badminton and athletics.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES :
CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
Throughout the year we run a large and varied programme of clubs and activities, which take place during breaktimes, lunchtimes or after School. As we try to utilise the expertise and willingness of staff where possible the vast majority of these clubs are free to attend. The few activities that incur a cost are marked with an asterix (*). The programme is continuingly evolving but has this year included:
• Animation • Hockey • Athletics • Horse Riding* • Baking • Hot Chocolate & Movies • Bible Studies • Lego & K’nex • Bouldering • Mixed Tag Rugby • Cartoon Drawing • Mosaics • Chess • Music Ensembles • Christian Unions • Origami • Creative Kids • Prayerstation • Cricket Nets • Programming • Cross Country • Revision Clinics • Dance Classes* • Rugby 7s • Darts • Science Researchers • Design Technology • Shooting • Eco Warriors • Sports Scholars’ Conditioning • Fencing • Swimming Clubs • Football • Tennis • Game Design • Textiles • Gardening • The Practice Project • Gymnastics • Philosophy • Hama Beads • Watercolour • Handwriting
DANCING
Lessons in Ballet, Modern and Tap are available from Mrs Janet Marshall and her colleagues during the School week and these are taught in the Dance Studio. Pupils are prepared for the R.A.D. and ISTD Ballet examinations and the ISTD Tap and Modern examinations.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL USE OF TECHNOLOGY :
USE OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
This should be read in conjunction with School policies and the • I will not communicate negative comments about others document 'Acceptable Use of ICT – Guidelines'. A paper copy which may cause hurt or distress or have a negative is available on request from the Front Office. All use of the ICT impact on their online reputation. facilities should be relevant to pupils’ academic activity during • I will not take or share images of anyone without their School hours and should be appropriate at all times. permission. • I will not send or receive chain emails. The School aims to encourage the maximum, positive use of ICT within the School in order to enhance teaching, learning, administration, management and efficiency. The School is For the safety of the School: committed to the delivery of a high quality ICT provision within • I will not try to access anything illegal or inappropriate. a safe environment. • I will not download anything that I do not have the right to use. The policy for the Acceptable Use of ICT has been produced • I will not make unauthorised copies of software or to ensure protection of all parties – the pupils, the parents, the unauthorised recordings. staff and the School. The School reserves the right to monitor, view or delete any data that may be held on its computer • I will not bring my mobile phone into School. systems and to monitor network, internet and email use. • If I am a boarder I will keep my phone in the boarding house and use it according to the boarding house rules. Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action. • I will not deliberately bypass any systems designed to keep the School safer. The following section is the policy agreed to by the pupils at the start of each year. • I will tell a responsible person if I find any damage or faults with technology, however this may have happened.
ACCEPTABLE USE OF IT POLICY AGREEMENT Mobile Phones
The School has provided computers and internet access to • DCPS is a mobile free zone and they should not be help you learn. You are responsible for your own behaviour on brought into School unless permission has been granted the internet just as you are on the playground. Our internet is by the Deputy Head (Pastoral). In such circumstances carefully filtered to screen unsuitable sites at source. Social phones should be handed in to the Day House at the networking sites, such as Facebook, are blocked on the School beginning of the day and collected before the journey system as are other sites we consider to be unsuitable for your home. age groups. • Smart watches are also not permitted in School. For my own personal safety: • I understand that my use of technology will be supervised • Boarders must leave their mobile phones in their House and monitored. during the day, but are allowed access once School is • I will keep my password safe and will not use anyone over. else’s (even with their permission). Please remember that the School may check your computer • I will keep my own personal information safe as well as files and it monitors the internet sites you visit! that of others. I will not share my address or phone number with anyone online. • I will never arrange to meet anyone and I will tell a teacher if someone asks to meet me or makes me feel uncomfortable. • I will not contact people online, or enter competitions or chat rooms, or online multi-player games. • I will tell a trusted adult such as my teacher or Housemaster/mistress if anything makes me feel uncomfortable or upset when I see it online. • I will not access computers at School without a teacher being present to supervise me. • I will make sure that I only search for material that is suitable for school and age appropriate.
For the safety of others: • I will not interfere with the way that others use their technology. • I will be polite and responsible when I communicate with others.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL PASTORAL INFORMATION :
PASTORAL INFORMATION
these staff may be readily contacted by email, or in person at the beginning or end of the School day.
Pupils are encouraged to share concerns as they arise, making use of the wide range of adults both in school, including tutors, gappers, Houseparents, coaches and TAs or those offsite including Childline or an independent listening service.
Chaplaincy
Dean Close Preparatory School has a very strong Christian ethos which we hope is apparent in all that we seek to be or do. Above all else, we regard each child as being unique and highly valued by God and so by us. Our desire is to see each one reach their full potential. Relationships for us matter supremely, and we seek to foster good and healthy ones. Because we believe that the Christian faith is best demonstrated in community, Dean Close provides a secure THE HOUSE SYSTEM context in which those who are not Christians can be encouraged to listen, question and ultimately think through the There are currently six Houses at Dean Close Prep School and Christian faith for themselves. Alongside this, those pupils and every pupil is a member of one of them. The Houses are as staff who are Christians have the opportunity to express and follows: live out their faith in a variety of ways.
Caldecote (Boys’ Boarding) The Chaplain organises the Christian Union. Christian events Houseparents Mr & Mrs M Cooper are organised throughout the year and these give children the opportunity to explore their faith. Deacon (Day) Houseparent Mrs R Beecham PSHCE (Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education) Fortfield (Girls’ Boarding) Houseparents Mr & Mrs J Sheldon All pupils from Years 3–8 take part in the PSHCE programme. This aims to prepare pupils for life ahead, raise their general Oaksey (Day) awareness of their own needs and those of others as part of a Houseparent Mr E Harris community, as well increase their understanding of wider global issues. Wilton (Junior Boarding) Houseparents Mr & Mrs D Fraine Within the PSHCE programme, many issues are addressed including: drugs and substance abuse, relationships including Yeaman (Day) sexual relationships (in Years 6, 7 and 8), general knowledge, Houseparent Mr C Standing current affairs and topics associated with citizenship. School and House assemblies, as well as outside speakers support the topics being looked at. Our system of pastoral care is comprehensive ensuring that pupils feel safe, understood and well known by a wide range of Sex education, which is incorporated into the programme, is staff. Pupils spend time regularly (three times a week) with the presented within a Christian context and understanding of class teacher (Years 3 – 5) or tutor (Years 6-8), providing an marriage and family life. opportunity to develop a personal relationship and access to a trusted adult. Twice each year, pupils complete an online assessment for AS Tracking, which serves to identify concerns and hidden risks early. The data from these equips teachers with in-school, targeted action plans to reduce pupil mental health and wellbeing risks.
Each pupil remains a member of the same House throughout his or her time at DCPS (except where a pupil transfers from day to boarding). The Houses are run as extended family units and all parents and guardians would expect to get to know the Houseparents well.
For children in Years 6, 7 and 8, the first point of contact and liaison between home and School is the House Tutor. For other year groups parents are able to contact Houseparents with any concerns or queries they may have. The Houseparent and the House Tutors oversee the extramural, social and pastoral wellbeing of each child. In the event of any query or concern,
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL BOARDING :
BOARDING
BOARDING COMMUNITY
At the heart of each of the Boarding Houses are the Houseparents, a married couple who live in the House with their own children. The Houseparents are supported by a resident and non-resident Pastoral Assistant, two House Tutors, and several non-resident members of academic staff, all of whom make up the boarding community. All staff support the Houseparent by performing regular duties in the House such as registration, prep, House prayers and the bedtime routine. The Pastoral Assistants, who are involved in the day to day care of the children, also oversee domestic arrangements, ailments and offer support and kindness if a pupil is homesick or in need of a friendly ear.
COMMUNICATION
Boarding house telephone numbers can be found below. If your call should transfer to an answer machine, please be assured that we are not ignoring you, we are simply involved elsewhere in the House with the children and unable to come to the phone. You can, of course, email the Houseparents.
It is often a good idea to agree a regular time each week when AIMS & PRINCIPLES OF BOARDING your child will phone you – that way you increase your chances of hearing from them. If you telephone the House, please do so In Boarding we aim to: before bedtime.
• develop the whole person, a desire for truth and a respect To email your child direct to his/ her School email address, use for others; the surname, followed by the first initial and then • produce an open, trusting ethos in which each boarder @deanclose.org.uk. for example [email protected] feels able to approach any other member of the community, confident that he/she will be treated as an Contact details for each House are: individual; • create an atmosphere of tolerance, openness and trust in Caldecote House which harassment and bullying should not be a part; 79 Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, • provide the conditions for boarders to develop their Glos. GL51 6QS intellectual talents through well-structured work and Telephone: 01242 258014 preparation times, access to staff and other pupils, Email: [email protected] participation in activities and in an atmosphere that values effort; • provide a range of activities, hobbies and opportunities Fortfield House related to age and maturity that will assist in each boarder’s personal, social, spiritual and cultural 69 Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, development; Glos. GL51 6QF Telephone: 01242 258030 • safeguard and promote the welfare of each boarder, by Email: [email protected] providing an environment that is free from physical hazards and dangers of any sort; • provide accommodation that is comfortable and suited to Wilton House the needs of boarders, according to age and maturity, and with adequate privacy; 77 Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, • develop boarders’ responsibility for self, others and Glos. GL51 6QG his/her environment; Telephone: 01242 258012 • develop boarders’ qualities of leadership and ability to Email: [email protected] work as part of a team; • provide the opportunities for boarders to share with adults Boarding children have access to the House phone in the their good experiences as well as being able to turn to boarding Houses. They can receive incoming calls and ask them for advice, counselling and support in times of permission to make outgoing calls. Some children do bring difficulty; and their own named mobile phone which is handed in for safe • maintain close links with boarders’ families which are keeping morning and night. It may be used to make and seen as an indispensable part of their support and receive calls and texts after School and up to bedtime. development.
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Letters Home more physically challenging pursuits such as canoeing, sailing, hill walking or paddle boarding. Living on the edge of the Letter writing takes place each Sunday and the children write Cotswolds we are in a convenient location for a Sunday stroll home even if they have spoken on the telephone in the week. If through the woods! they are to see you on that Sunday then we encourage them to write to a relative or friend. Equally, if your child has emailed Parents of boarders will always receive a warm welcome to the you during the week (each child has his/her own email address School. There are a wide range of sports matches and on the School system set up upon arrival) we still ask them to concerts they may wish to attend, and the Houseparents are write to somebody – it is an important skill and it would be always happy for them to take their children out whenever they wrong to neglect it. Please supply the necessary paper, are able to visit. Such arrangements should be made with envelopes, useful addresses and stamps. Air letters are most plenty of notice with the Boarding Houseparents. We do ask suitable if you live abroad. that each child is signed out and back in again by the adult responsible for that child: pupils should be back in their AFTER SCHOOL Houses by 7.30pm.
In the secure environment we offer at DCPS, the children are Future term dates are printed at the back of the termly free to be themselves and there is no peer pressure to grow up calendar. Each term there is a half term and fixed exeats when too quickly. After School the children play outside, go-karts and all boarders should go out with parents or guardians. We ask trampolines are popular, they also enjoy exploring our the parents or guardians to arrange for all children to leave the extensive grounds. Our woods and brook give children the School on exeat weekends. opportunity to create their own entertainment; facilities and organised activities mean that the children learn to use their A consent form is required to allow children to have leave outs time constructively. However, it is very important that children with friends. are left with time to explore life at their own pace, and in their own way, so sometimes after a long day at School the children Attendance at local clubs or visits to friends’ houses can be can take the opportunity to relax in their Houses and find space arranged with consent from the Deputy Head (Operations). A to unwind. taxi can be organised to transport children on such occasions.
BEDTIMES POCKET MONEY
Year Bell Lights out We ask for a minimum of £60.00 a term. This covers tuck, trips 3-4 7.40 8.00 out, chapel collections (two a year and Carol Service) etc. If you are going to be abroad you may like to leave more to cover 5 7.50 8.10 spending money at exeat or for unexpected need. The money 6 8.00 8.30 is held in a pocket money account and the balance is returned 7 8.20 8.50 at the end of term. Please bring either a cheque (payable to Caldecote House, Wilton House or Fortfield House as 8 8.40 9.10 appropriate) or cash in a named, sealed envelope. (10 minutes later in the Trinity Term) TUCK FULL BOARDING Tuck is an important part of a Prep School child’s life, and the The majority of our boarders are full-time boarders, which boarding Houses will organise this on an in-House basis. This means that they tend to stay in the Boarding House at will enable us to supply appropriate items in the right amounts. weekends. Over the course of each term we plan a variety of We request that no additional tuck be brought to School. The weekend activities for the boarders including visits to Drayton children have three meals a day, a drink and snack at mid Manor, Cadbury World, @Bristol Science Museum, Giffords morning break, a drink and snack after School, bread and fruit Circus, wildlife parks, or the local ice skating rink. We are well in the Houses before tea and a drink before bed. served in the this area of the country for places that also offer
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DAY BOARDING CHILDREN LIVING OVERSEAS
Day Boarding allows a child to enjoy the benefits of boarding Passports/Visas without, in the first instance, becoming a full boarder. This is an excellent way for many families to begin to experience It is essential that children’s passports and any necessary boarding life; it can be of enormous benefit for extremely busy visas are kept up-to-date. Parents are asked to ensure this families; and it often serves as a stepping stone to full-time and then to pass all such documentation to Houseparents boarding. Day boarding works in the following way: for safekeeping. When children are travelling overseas as unaccompanied minors, it is essential that parents complete • Children become members of either Fortfield (girls), the necessary unaccompanied minors forms from the airline Caldecote (boys) or Wilton (junior boarders) House. and send these to the Houseparents in advance of the day • They have their pastoral base in the Boarding House. of travel. • On arriving at School in the morning they will go to their Boarding House to register and will have space allocated Guardians accordingly. • They are able to stay for supper each night and leave All children whose parents reside abroad must have a School at an age-appropriate time, up to 8.30pm for Guardian who can fulfil the role as laid out on the Guardian Year 8 children. Form. These forms should be signed by both parents and guardians and returned to the School Office. This is a vital • They are able to stay overnight for up to two nights per role and guardians should not be appointed unless they can week in the middle of each week in Wilton and three nights cope with the visiting, travel arrangements and upkeep of a week in Caldecote and Fortfield if there is a bed clothes, etc. available (for obvious reasons, beds will not be allocated to each day boarder on a permanent basis). Parents who normally live in England, but who have to be Beds will be occupied by negotiation. away or abroad for a short time, must leave an address and • Games kit and uniform can be washed in School, but this telephone number with the appropriate Houseparents. necessitates leaving a second set in School. • There is a charge dependant on year group on top of Day Further important information regarding Guardians is available Fees and an additional charge of £55 charged for every from the Boarding Houses. night spent in the boarding House.
Escorted Travel N.B. As there are limited spaces for day boarders, please enquire at the Admissions Office for availability. Reputable local taxi companies can be recommended by the There is no guarantee that a day boarder at the Prep School Office. School will necessarily secure a day boarding place at the Senior School. Parents should contact the Registrar at the Senior School to express an interest in a day boarding place as soon as possible.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL MEDICAL INFORMATION :
MEDICAL INFORMATION
FIRST AID POLICY fridge in the Treatment Room. Medicines must be collected at the end of the school day. We have facilities for administering First Aid at various locations Dean Close acknowledges its responsibility under RIDDOR to around the School. The fully equipped Treatment Room is report certain occurrences to the Health and Safety Executive. located next to the Deputy Head’s office and is open at 8.15am All boarders are registered with a local Doctor’s surgery, the until 4.45pm Monday - Friday and 8.15am -1.00pm on Saturday Overton Park Surgery. Out of normal GP hours the ‘out of and is staffed by a Health Care Supervisor (HCS). A nurse is hours’ emergency system is available, based at Cheltenham also present in the Treatment Room at morning break and General Hospital. The Doctors’ surgeries in school afford the lunch break for both day and boarding pupils. The main same confidentiality as a normal GP surgery. Health Centre is situated at the Senior School and is staffed 24/7. There are three registered school nurses who work Only pupils registered with Overton Park Surgery are able to closely with the Overton Park GP surgery to provide a full have appointments with the school GP. We request that practice nurse led service as well as facilitating a GP clinic five boarders do NOT register with another GP in the holidays, days a week for boarding pupils. First Aid boxes are situated in however they will always be able to see a GP at home as a key areas of the School. We always take first aid kits with us temporary resident if necessary. when groups of pupils go out of school on organised trips or to participate in sporting events. Whenever possible, sick children are cared for in their Boarding Houses by the Houseparents’ and Boarding House The HCS (supported by a nurse at the school Health Centre) is Assistants under the medical direction of the school Doctor and available to administer First Aid, to deal with any accidents or nurses. Parents or guardians are always informed about illness emergencies, or to help if someone is taken ill during the and accidents involving a visit to the Hospital A&E department. school day. Most members of the teaching staff are trained to provide basic First Aid. We keep records of all accidents and Day children are cared for in the Treatment Room if they are injuries and have a procedure in place for ensuring that they unwell during the school day. If it is necessary for them to be are reviewed regularly to minimise the likelihood of recurrence. taken home, parents will be informed by the nurse, the HCS or the Front Office. We will always contact parents if a child suffers anything more than a trivial injury, or if he/she becomes unwell, or if we have any worries or concerns about their health.
MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR PUPILS
If a child needs medication during the school day the medicine must be delivered to the Front Office and a ‘Form 5’ (available to download from the school website or from the Front Office), filled out giving consent for the HCS and nurse to administer the medicine. The medication will be locked up or kept in the
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL MEDICAL INFORMATION :
RECORDS FOR NEW PUPILS into account when planning the menu and is supported by the use of lean cuts of meat, monosaturated fats, locally supplied It is absolutely essential that parents complete the necessary fresh fruit and vegetables, with no use of genetically modified health records for new pupils before the start of term; sending foodstuffs. them by post, bringing them to the School Office or scanning and emailing them. All pupils require a completed ‘Medical Special diets are provided for and the use of foods containing Form’ with all relevant information and signed twice. Without E numbers, additives and preservatives is restricted. Please this we are unauthorised to treat your child. Boarding pupils speak directly to the Catering Manager or Head Chef should also require a completed and signed Doctors’ Registration you have any questions or comments (01242 258081). Form (GMS1) (purple form). DENTAL, OPTICAL, ORTHODONTIST MEDICAL EXAMINATION APPOINTMENTS
The school Doctor gives every boarding pupil a full Please use the holidays for routine checks to avoid interruptions examination on entry. to school life. Treatment may be continued during term time when absolutely necessary. Boarding pupils are accompanied IMMUNISATIONS to any hospital or dental appointment by a staff member. Taxi fares may be payable for routine appointments. Immunisations are carried out as per NHS guidelines i.e. HPV. There is a Travel Health Clinic available for pupils (boarders) INSURANCE living overseas and for school trips. We encourage all parents not otherwise insured to seriously FOOD consider our AXA PPP Healthcare insurance, which is not at all expensive and enables them to have the services of a The aim of the school is to provide healthy food, which is well consultant and physiotherapist on a private basis if ever it is cooked, nicely presented, varied and interesting, appealing to necessary; but it must be noted that the Scheme contributes all age groups and palates. Our healthy eating policy is taken only some of the cost of out-patient treatment.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL COMMUNICATION AND PARENTAL LINKS :
COMMUNICATION AND PARENTAL LINKS
THE WELCOME PACK CALENDARS Prior to entry, parents receive: School Calendar This is produced termly and a copy is available at the end of • A welcome letter from the Headmaster detailing the term. Extra copies can be sent to guardians on request. It is name of your child’s class teacher. also emailed. • A copy of this Parents’ Handbook. • Medical Forms. Fixtures Calendars • School Calendar. These are published each term and are available to parents • Application forms for optional extracurricular activities. and pupils.
REPORTS/PARENTS’ MEETINGS PUBLICATIONS Assessment grades are sent home every half term. Full reports The Daily Bulletin are written once a year and target reports and parents’ The Bulletin is printed off each morning detailing the most up to evenings twice a year. In addition, there are parent consultation date details of the School day ahead. It is posted in all Houses, meetings during the year. If you wish to make an individual and key buildings around the School and pupils should look at appointment to discuss an academic matter, please liaise with it at the beginning of each day. your child’s Form Teacher, House Tutor or the Deputy Head Academic. The Weekly Bulletin The Weekly Bulletin is uploaded onto the website on a Friday and contains any letters or information for the following week - PARENTS’ EVENTS it also contains copies of the Daily Bulletin. There are plenty of opportunities for parents to get together. On Hermes Saturday mornings, through the winter, parents can participate A newsletter is emailed to parents each Friday. It is a vital in mixed hockey games and during the summer tennis and channel of communication – we often put revised games cricket. All parents are welcome at regularly held coffee arrangements or special notices in Hermes. Hermes can also mornings, parenting workshops and prayer meetings. There be accessed from our website/extranet so that boarding are also events to which parents are invited which are parents can be kept up to date. highlighted in the School Calendar.
E-News A review of the term’s events and achievements at the end of PARENTS’ SOCIETY each term. All parents are members of the Parents' Society which aims to The Young Decanian offer a partnership between the School and its parent body. This is the annual School magazine for the Prep School. It is The society, represented by a committee of volunteers, meets published in November. termly with members of the school's management team to support the School by offering a consultative sounding board for wider school issues and discuss matters effecting the Dean PARENTS’ NOTICE BOARDS School community. These can be found in the Day and Boarding Houses. BUSINESS CLUB WEBSITE - www.deanclose.org.uk All parents are welcome to join the School Business Club which meets regularly. There is a parents’ area on the website which includes the School calendar, mailings, lunch menus and information about School Sports.
Email Text and emails will be sent using Clarion Call in the event of a reminder or urgent information.
Twitter Follow the School @DeanCloseSchool, the Deputy Head @dcpsdeputyhead, Director of Music @DCPSmusic or the Schola Cantorum @taschola.
Facebook Like us on www.facebook.com/deancloseschool
Instagram Follow us on Instagram @deanclose_prepschool
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE :
UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE
DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL SHOP
The School Shop aims to be a one stop shop and is located in the Sports Hall off Shelburne road. In addition to the regulation uniform, which must be purchased from the Shop, it stocks the majority of items on the School uniform lists, including a range of footwear, sports equipment, stationery, toiletries, confectionery and the new Heritage Collection.
The Shop is run by the School for the benefit of the pupils and their parents and prices are as competitive as they can possibly be, taking into consideration quality and durability. Once term has started a School account is created for each pupil where by Prep School pupils can purchase items via the House staff or with a note from their parents giving permission. Parents are welcome to purchase items directly from the School Shop and the methods of payment are cheque, cash or credit card.
The School Shop is not open during Senior School exeats, half terms and holidays. These opening hours apply for most of the School year. After the Trinity half term and beginning of the Michaelmas Term, we operate a series of appointment only days.
Opening Times During Term Time Mon 8.00am – 12.30pm 1.30pm – 4.00pm Tues 9.30am – 12.30pm 1.30pm – 6.00pm Wed 9.30am – 12.30pm 1.30pm – 6.00pm Thurs 9.30am – 12.30pm 1.30pm – 6.00pm Fri 9.30am – 12.30pm 1.30pm – 4.00pm Sat 10.00am – 12.00noon 12.30pm – 3.00pm Boys’Winter Uniform Senior Prep
Appointments In order that uniform may be purchased for the new School year the Shop operates a system of personal appointments for all Prep School pupils and those children entering the School for the first time. These appointments are held at two different times which are given below.
Trinity Term Tuesday 2 July, 9 July, 16 July, 23 July 10.30am – 2.30pm Thursday 4 July, 11 July, 18 July, 25 July 10.30am – 2.30pm
Thursday 22 August 9.30am – 5.00pm, appointments only Friday 23 August 9.30am – 5.00pm, appointments only Saturday 24 August 9.30am – 2.00pm, appointments only Sunday 25 August Closed Monday 26 August (bank holiday) Closed Tuesday 27 August 9.30am – 5.00pm, appointments only Wednesday 28 August 9.30am – 5.00pm, appointments only Thursday 29 August 9.30am – 5.00pm, appointments only Friday 30 August 9.30am – 5.00pm, overseas appoint only Saturday 31 August 9.30am – 2.00pm, first come first served Sunday 1 September Closed Girls’Winter Uniform Monday 2 September 10.30am – 7.00pm, first come first served Senior Prep Tuesday 3 September Normal opening hours
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE :
The last daily appointment is at 5.00pm. Appointments are either half an hour or an hour whereby each pupil will receive dedicated time to purchase everything they need. We recommend that you try to come in the first series of appointments as the Shop gets busy in September when we re-open before term. When doing a uniform fitting we make allowances for the fact that the uniform will not be needed until September. We are happy to exchange clothing assuming it has not been named or worn. Instant iron-on/sew on name tapes are available from the Shop, the large tapes required for all sports uniform are available to order.
IT IS ESSENTIAL TO PHONE THE SHOP TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Please contact Kate Wood at the School Shop on 01242 258016 or mobile 07999 718666, or email [email protected] to arrange an appointment. Payment for uniform should be cleared by cheque, cash or credit card on the day of purchase please.
All pupils are required to wear School uniform during the School day and for School events. We encourage our pupils to make an effort with their appearance and to wear their uniform with pride. A set of rules and guidelines can be found in the Boys’ Rugby Kit Boys’ Cricket Kit Code of Conduct. The uniform list is published separately and revised each year. Parents receive a list at the end of each School year and further copies can be obtained from the School Office. Uniform can also be purchased from the Second Hand Shop.
The Uniform Exchange We have a thriving second hand shop known as the Uniform Exchange. It is located within the main school shop and is open at the following times during term time: Mon 8.00am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 4.00pm Tues 9.30am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 6.00pm Wed 9.30am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 6.00pm Thurs 9.30am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 6.00pm Fri 8.00am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 4.00pm Sat 10.00am - 12.00noon 12.30pm - 3.00pm
To purchase items: The Uniform Exchange is self-service, although the shop staff are happy to help when needed. The shop stocks all bespoke items for Dean Close Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior school. The supply is dependent on items donated by parents, so availability cannot be guaranteed.
All payments can only be settled by cash or personal cheque and the Uniform Exchange has a no return policy. Girls’ Hockey Kit
To donate items: If you have bespoke Dean Close uniform in clean, good condition that you would like to donate, please bring it to the school shop during opening hours.
We hope that you find the Uniform Exchange a valuable service and that with your purchases and generous donations we will be able to continue to raise much needed funds for school and local charities.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL PUPILS’ CODE OF CONDUCT :
PUPILS’ CODE OF CONDUCT
The Code of Conduct exists as a framework of expectations for LIBRARY members of the Dean Close Prep School community. It is largely a positive code based around principles of To enable as many pupils as possible to enjoy the resources understanding, respect and responsibility, which should lead to we have on offer in the Library, we ask that pupils follow the a happy environment for everybody’s productive progress. library guidelines of: All pupils are expected to be familiar with the code and parents are encouraged to support the School in upholding the • Pupils may borrow up to a maximum of two Library principles of both. books at a time, these may be loaned for a period of up to four weeks. • Loans may normally be renewed if the book is not ACADEMIC WORK required by the Library for another user.
To learn to work to the best of our abilities is one of the main • Library materials on loan to one person may not be reasons for being at Dean Close Prep School. Pupils’ behaviour transferred to another. The person in whose name the loan in class is expected to be of the highest order. Disruptive is made is solely responsible for the safekeeping and due behaviour will not be tolerated. Pupils have a responsibility to return of items loaned. be constructive and positive in all aspects of their work. • All Library materials borrowed must be returned within the Academic tasks (e.g. class work, prep, coursework, etc.) must stipulated loan period. Failure to do so will result in be completed thoroughly, neatly and promptly. application of appropriate sanctions. • Where an item is lost or stolen, returned damaged, or not EQUIPMENT returned after a reasonable period of time, the borrower will be charged for the item at an appropriate replacement Pupils should ensure that they have all the correct equipment cost, to be determined by the Librarian. for School each day.
Pupils must have: APPEARANCE • School bag. • Games bag. The way in which we present ourselves is of fundamental • P.E. bag. importance to how we get on in the world. Pupils are encouraged not to pursue fashionable trends but to uphold the (These must be purchased from the School Shop or Second School uniform with a sense of appropriateness and pride. Hand Shop) Pupils must dress in line with the uniform requirements • Pencil case containing: (published separately), clean and tidy with collars and ties • Fountain pen (not Year 3 & 4). properly done up and shirts or blouses tucked in. All items of • Spare cartridges (blue ink please). clothing should be knee length or no more than five • Pencils. centimetres off the ground when kneeling. Girls may wear only • Pencil sharpener. plain or pearl studs in pierced ears and shoes for everyone • Rubber. should be of the School approved variety. We expect children • Red and blue biro/fine-liner. to polish their shoes and look well groomed at all times. Best • Colouring pencils (a basic selection). uniform should be worn for trips and other public occasions • 30cm ruler. such as concerts. Hair must be clean and tidy with no gel or other similar hair products. It must not be dyed nor cut in an Please note that Tip-Ex is NOT allowed. extreme style. Boys’ hair must be clear of the collar and eyes. Girls’ hair must be clear of the face and tied back with a • Maths equipment: maroon band or band matching the colour of the hair during • Compasses (not Years 3 & 4). the School day and official events. • Protractor (not Years 3 & 4). • Scientific calculator (not Years 3, 4 & 5). Pupils in Years 6, 7 and 8 wear their blazers everyday and • Collins Pocket French Dictionary (Years 7 and 8). when travelling to matches, School outings and formal • Oxford Colour Dictionary. occasions. Children will be told in advance if they need • Watch (Senior Prep pupils. Optional for Years 3–6). blazers.
To be kept at home for use with prep. Dictionaries are available Official games kit is worn for all School matches and practices. in the French classrooms. The following dictionaries are Shirts are tucked in, tracksuits zipped up properly and socks recommended: are up at all times, on and off the pitch. Casual clothes or ‘mufti’ is worn by boarders out of School hours, and special None of these items should have graffiti on them. mufti days happen once or twice each year for the whole School, as a fundraising event. All items of equipment must be named clearly. Pupils in Years 3, 4 and 5 attend weekly Forest School sessions and will need to bring a waterproof coat, waterproof overtrousers, wellington boots, mufti layers, hat, gloves and a scarf.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL PUPILS’ CODE OF CONDUCT :
CHAPEL AND WORSHIP RELATIONSHIPS
The School has a strong Christian foundation and comes Friendships made at School will hopefully last for life. However, together as a community to worship on a regular basis. it is important that relationships are based on mutual trust and Chapel is a place for worship and quiet contemplation. Pupils respect, and on recognition that each and every one of us is a should observe this in Chapel before or after services, as well person of equal value. Bullying of any sort is strongly as joining in the hymns, listening thoughtfully to readings and condemned and completely unacceptable. Break times are a sermons, and participating when possible (e.g. by saying time for relaxed play and positive socialising. Excessive ‘Amen’ at the ends of prayers). physical ‘playing’ where clothes are pulled or pupils go to ground is not acceptable.
SPORTING AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES It is particularly important in a Christian, co-educational School that relationships between boys and girls develop as Pupils have a responsibility to take advantage of the many appropriate for pupils of up to 13 years old. Physical contact is facilities and activities as a positive educational opportunity. not permitted. They are expected to participate in sporting activities: it is assumed that pupils will be available for Saturday matches (all BOUNDS AND PRESENCE AT SCHOOL requests for absence should be to the Headmaster in writing), and to support teams as spectators if not directly involved. For the safety and wellbeing of pupils and of those who work at Spectating pupils are expected to encourage and cheer those the Prep School, certain bounds and rules for registration and taking part, and be sporting in their comments, never booing. signing out have to apply.
Behaviour in the assemblies, concerts, plays, and other events, Bounds which are often open to parents, must be of the highest order, showing due regard for others and for the occassion. Pupils Pupils are expected to be based in their Houses at any time are always encouraged to have a sense of occassion, and other than timetabled lessons, activities and breaks. At break understand appropriate conduct, such as not wolf whistling but times pupils are expected to be within sight of the Duty Staff. clapping politely. Music School, Technology room or ICT room use is only permitted with direct permission from relevant staff. Other places out-of-bounds, except in authorised circumstances, include:
• Front of School. • Kitchen and dining hall. • Pitches and lawns over the winter and when the ground is too wet during summer. • Brook: when pupils are authorised to go to the brook by House staff, there must always be a minimum of three in a group, so that in the event of trouble one can go for help and not leave anyone there alone. Time of return must always be agreed with House staff before going. • Tuckwell Theatre. • Other Houses without permission. • Changing rooms and toilets: The Rickerby building toilets are accessible at breaktimes, but pupils are not to loiter. Pupils are expected to change quickly and quietly into appropriate kits, and leave the changing rooms tidy. • All roofs and lofts of School buildings. • Boarders have clearly defined bounds in the evenings and at weekends, and must use standard signing out and communication systems to go to these places.
Presence at School
Pupils must be registered into School in the morning, and just after lunchtime. All pupils must sign out of Houses after the end of the day. If a child is unwell or has a medical appointment their absence must be communicated to Houses and the Front Office by parents, preferably in writing or email and if leaving during the School day, must be signed out from the Front Office. Other requests for absence must be addressed in writing in advance to the Headmaster.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL PUPILS’ CODE OF CONDUCT :
TRANSPORT PROPERTY
Buses Respect for one’s own and other people’s property is a fundamental responsibility of all pupils. All text books and Only enter a School minibus or coach when told to do so exercise books are expected to be treated respectfully and by a member of staff. with care. Pupils are responsible for any text books on loan from teachers, and they should be returned in the same During a journey you may talk quietly to those around you. condition that they were given out. Exercise books, rough books, folders and homework diaries are to be kept tidily and Do not leave your seat and wear the seatbelt correctly at clear of graffiti or doodles. Pupils who lose these will be all times. expected to pay 50p for a replacement (Years 6, 7 & 8 School Planners will cost £5.00 to replace). Do not distract the driver in any way. Take good care of personal property, do not leave temptation around, and report any losses immediately. All clothing and Cars personal property must be marked and must not be ‘borrowed’. Do not take property belonging to others – that is theft. Pupils arriving at School in cars should unload and move Expensive personal possessions are brought into School at the quickly and safely from the front of School to Houses. owner’s risk and are not advised. The School cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage. I-pods/music players or games consoles are strongly discouraged and may only be Bicycles used with permission, e.g. on long journeys.
Pupils may cycle into School with written permission from If money is brought to School, this should be handed in to the parents. These cyclists must conform to standard safety Houseparents first thing in the morning. The School does not regulations including helmets and luminous or bright clothing. insure pupils’ personal effects and cannot take responsibility for anything lost. Trading cards or toys are not permitted, especially Cyclists enter the School grounds by the main entrance in front for money. Use of mobile telephones during the School day is of Fortfield House, with due consideration for vehicles using prohibited. Pupils are not allowed to bring a mobile phone to that entrance. School except by prior arrangement with the Deputy Head. Please respect the hard work done by those who work to Bicycles are not to be ridden in the School grounds and must maintain the School and its grounds, by being polite, grateful be left locked outside the Design Technology room and and thoughtful. Do not drop litter and keep the School clean, nowhere else. They must be in roadworthy condition, including tidy and free from vandalism and graffiti. If you damage or lose lights, marked and registered on a form with the Houseparent. any of the School’s property, please report it immediately.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL PUPILS’ CODE OF CONDUCT :
PROHIBITIONS
The following activities are deemed unacceptable at Dean Close Prep School, in the interests of the wellbeing of both individual members and of the community as a whole.
These include: • The possession of toy guns or any other toys that maybe used to harm others. • The possession of illegal drugs and the abuse of solvents. • Smoking or drinking or the possession of tobacco or alcohol. • Chewing gum, spitting, swearing, gambling. • Buying and selling from/to each other without authorisation. • Mobile phones (except boarders – see Boarding Handbook).
REWARDS AND SANCTIONS
Golden Credits Awarded for positive behaviour.
Credits These are awarded for good work, good behaviour, etc., throughout the School day.
Debits Orange Debits are given for bad behaviour outside of the classroom, Yellow Debits for poor work and or bad behaviour inside the classroom and Green Reminders for poor organisation. Red Debits are given for extreme incidents, where parents will be contacted immediately.
Detention Two orange or two yellow debits in a one week period will result in a detention being served:
Years 6–8 Tuesday or Thursday 5.15pm – 6pm
Years 3–5 During lunch or break time.
If a pattern of behaviour arises with debits and detentions, parents will be contacted to discuss appropriate solutions to return the pupils’ behaviour to expected levels. In extreme cases, a further sanction of an evening or Saturday detention may be used.
DEAN CLOSE PREP SCHOOL ECO CODE
We should all: • Always put litter in a bin and pick up pieces that we find to put in a bin. • Always 'Reduce, Re-use or Recycle' our rubbish. • Always turn lights and computers off when they are not in use. • Always close doors and windows to avoid letting cold air in or warm air out. • Always turn water taps off properly after we have used them.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL SCHOOL BUS INFORMATION :
SCHOOL BUS INFORMATION
A daily, term time bus service to and from Dean Close School is available to pupils on the following routes:
ROUTE 1
Fare Fare Depart Autumn Spr/Summer Return Autumn Spr/Summer Broadway (Swan Inn Car Park) 7.10 £300 £236 18.55 £251 £199 Laverton (Lay By) 7.14 £278 £219 18.51 £233 £185 Toddington (Spar Shop) 7.20 £230 £181 18.40 £193 £153 Winchcombe (War Memorial) 7.25 £214 £169 18.35 £179 £143 Rising Sun Bus Stop 7.34 £129 £102 18.29 £108 £86 Southam Jnc Bus Stop 7.37 £123 £97 18.28 £103 £82 Prestbury Rd Bus Stop 7.40 £118 £93 18.26 £99 £79 Priors Road (Simpsons Fish & Chip Shop) 7.43 £118 £93 18.24 £99 £79 CC Preparatory School 7.49 18.15 Dean Close 8.10* 18.05
ROUTE 2
Fare Fare Depart Autumn Spr/Summer Return Autumn Spr/Summer Moreton-in-Marsh (Manor House Hotel) 6.55 £359 £282 18.55 £300 £238 Stow-on-the-Wold (The Square) 7.05 £305 £240 18.50 £255 £203 Bourton on the Water 7.15 £257 £203 18.40 £215 £171 Guiting Foxhill 7.25 £225 £177 18.32 £188 £150 CC Preparatory School 7.55 18.15 Dean Close 8.10 18.05*
ROUTE 3 FareFare Fare Depart Autumn Spr/Summer Return Autumn Spr/Summer
Burford Antiques Centre 7.10 £359 £282 18.55 ₪ £300 £238 Northleach (Fallows Rd) 7.23 £257 £203 18.42 ₪ £215 £171 Northleach Square 7.27 £236 £186 18.40 ₪ £197 £157 Compton Abdale (Junction) 7.31 £214 £169 18.33 ₪ £179 £143 Andoversford 7.35 £129 £102 18.27 £108 £86 East End (Duke of York) 7.44 £107 £85 18.23 £90 £72 Sixways (Garage) 7.46 £81 £64 18.21 £67 £54 CC Preparatory School 7.50 18.15 Dean Close 8.10* 18.05*
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL SCHOOL BUS INFORMATION :
ROUTE 4
Fare Fare Depart Autumn Spr/Summer Return Autumn Spr/Summer Ashton Keynes 7.10 £300 £236 ó £251 £199 South Cerney (Water Park Info Centre) 7.13 £278 £219 ó £233 £185 Cirencester (Beeches) 7.25 £236 £186 18.45 £197 £157 Cirencester (Bowling Green Lane Bus Stop) 7.26 £236 £186 18.44 £197 £157 Cirencester (Stratton Shops Bus Stop) 7.27 £236 £186 18.43 £197 £157 Perrotts Brook 7.32 £230 £181 18.38 £193 £153 Rendcomb 7.38 £225 £177 18.32 £188 £150 Colesbourne 7.43 £214 £169 18.27 £179 £143 Cobberley Junction Bus Stop 7.45 £107 £85 18.23 £90 £72 Sandy Lane 7.49 £54 £43 18.17 £45 £36 CC Preparatory School 7.52 18.15 Dean Close 8.10* 18.05*
ROUTE 5
Fare Fare Depart Autumn Spr/Summer Return Autumn Spr/Summer Gloucester Cattle Market 7.10 £225 £177 18.55 £188 £150 Innsworth 7.10 £215 £169 18.45 £179 £143 Churchdown (Bat & Ball) 7.30 £156 £123 18.40 £130 £104 Badgeworth Lane 7.35 £129 £102 18.35 £108 £86 Cheeserollers Bus Stop 7.40 £81 £64 18.30 £67 £54 Church Rd Leckhampton 7.45 £54 £43 18.25 £45 £36 CC Preparatory School 7.55 18.15 Dean Close 8.10* 18.10*
ROUTE 6 FareFare Fare Depart Autumn Spr/Summer Return Autumn Spr/Summer Nailsworth Bus Station 6.55 £359 £282 19.05 £300 £238 Amberley Lay By 7.05 £300 £236 19.00 £251 £199 Stroud Bus Station 7.10 £257 £203 18.55 £215 £171 Lypiat Park 7.15 £241 £190 18.50 £202 £160 Murco Garage (Before The Camp) 7.20 £225 £177 18.45 £188 £150 Foston’s Ash 7.25 £214 £169 18.35 £179 £143 Birdlip 7.35 £188 £148 18.30 £157 £125 CC Preparatory School 7.50 18.15 Dean Close 8.10* 18.08*
*Change at CC Prep School. ₪ Dedicated connecting service joined at Andoversford. Fares are for Termly Season Tickets, effective 1 September 2017, prices may vary. Pro-rata tickets (part-term or part-week) are available on request. Inward Timetable runs Monday to Saturday inclusive, outward Timetable Runs Monday to Friday only.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL BURSARY INFORMATION :
BURSARY INFORMATION
PAYMENT OF FEES EXTRAS
May be made by one of three options: monthly direct debit, Certain items are charged on the School bills as extras. The termly payment or a capital fee scheme to cover a minimum of following are included in the overall termly fee: six terms. Details of each scheme may be obtained from the • All text books and stationery; Bursary. Fees are due before the first day of term. Late • laundry; (Boarders) payment charges may accrue after this date at 2% per month and a £50 administration charge may be made. • equipment for games not listed as optional extras; • entertainments in School; Should unforeseen financial difficulties arise, parents are • laboratory and CDT expenses (pupils wishing to keep advised to discuss the matter with the Bursar as soon as completed items pay only for materials); possible. • travel on strictly educational expeditions and for teams to School matches; and INSURANCE • all meals for boarders and lunch for day pupils.
The following pupil insurances are available on an opt in basis: The following are not included: • all fees for external examinations; and 1. The School Fees Refund Scheme (loss of fees through • a few books (such as a dictionary) and personal sickness) at 1.05% of fees equipment (such as a calculator).
2. The School's group membership of AXA PPP Healthcare, OPTIONAL EXTRAS at £99.00 per term Please note that a full term’s notice in writing is required to 3. The Pupils' Personal Accident Insurance Scheme. From discontinue any optional extra. These include Music, Speech September 2016 the School has arranged for all pupils & Drama, Riding, extra private tuition, visits to plays, concerts, from Reception Year upwards to be covered by the Pupil's etc., outside the curriculum. Personal Accident Insurance Scheme (incorporating dental injury) at no additional charge. NOTICE OF LEAVING
Notice to leave the School must be in a letter addressed to the 4. Personal Effects Insurance Scheme at £8.57 per term Headmaster, signed by all parties to the parent contract. A full term’s notice is required, otherwise a term’s fees in lieu of notice will be payable. Provisional notice can of course be Please note that your son’s/daughter’s personal possessions accepted where a pupil’s return to school depends upon will not be covered by the School insurance. You may wish to examination results. check whether your own insurance covers these or take advantage of the Pupils’ Personal Effects Scheme. The School POLICIES cannot accept liability for the loss of (by theft or negligence), or damage to, pupils’ personal property, or property on loan Policies and procedures are found on the School website by to them. clicking on the ‘About’ section of the Dean Close website Home Page. They are also available on request from the Front Office.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL THE STAFF :
THE STAFF
Headmaster Mr P Moss 2015 BA (Hons) (SOAS, London University)
Deputy Head (Operations) Mr J Harris 1996 BA (Hons) (Reading), PGCE (Bath)
Academic Director Mr J Gould 2011 BA (Hons), PGCE (Southampton)
Director of Studies Mr K Donnelly 2019 BA (Hons) (University of Oxford), PGCE (Gloucestershire)
STAFF Mrs S Cooper 2016 Mrs J Lyons 2010 Mr B Veron 2018 BA (Hons) Cardiff BA (Hons) (Dunelm), Maitrise LLCE (France), Mrs M Andrews 2015 PGCE (Oxford Brookes) PGCE (Bristol) PGCE (Aberystwyth) BA (Hons) (Nottingham), PGCE (Manchester) Mr M Cooper 2011 Mr T McVittie 2011 BA (Hons) Oxford, PGCE BA (Hons) (Dunelm), OTHER STAFF Revd. J Ash 2016 (Oxford Brookes) PGCE (Surrey), Durham BA (Hons) PGC Performance (Singing) Teaching Assistants Geography BA, (Durham) Mrs S Davies 1998 (Trinity College, London) Miss P Sparrow 2015 BA (Hons) (French University Theology BA. (Oxford, Wycliffe Miss E Harris 2005 Hall) of Bristol), PGCE (OU) Mrs J Moss 2015 BSc (Hons) (Loughborough), Admissions Mrs C Barber 2008 Mr M Dobbs 2015 PGCE (Exeter) BTEC (Worcester College) BA (Hons) (Durham), Mrs R Chaplin 2002 PGCE (Cambridge) Mrs S Ridsdale 2015 BSc (Hons) (University Mrs E Bailey 2000 BEd (Hons) (Bangor) College, London) BSc (Hons) Durham Miss A Eelbeck 2018 PGCE (Bath) BA (Hons) (Gloucestershire), Ms C Rubringer 2018 Mrs R Hayes 2008 PGCE (Gloucestershire) BA (Hons) (Middlesex), BA (Hons) (Glos) Mrs L Bailey 2006 PGCE (Bath) BEd (Hons) (UWIC) Mr D Fraine 2011 Marketing BA (Hons) (Loughborough), Mrs C Salisbury 2014 PGCE BSc (Hons) (Bristol), Ms K Wells 2015 Mrs R Beecham BSc (Hons) (Surrey) BA (Hons) Sheffield PGCE (Bristol) PCCE (Cambridge) Mrs A Godley 1997 BA (Hons) (Huddersfield), Mrs R Scharf 2010 Office Mr S Bell 2012 PGCE (Homerton College, CertEd (Bedford Mrs S Clark LLB BMus (Leeds), Cambridge) College) Mrs D Smith 2010 MMus (Royal College, Leeds), Ms K Greatbatch BA (Hons) FRCO (Royal College of Miss R Goldrick 2018 Mr R Shelley 2007 Portsmouth, FCCA 2015 Organists) Licence - University of BEd (Hons) (Exeter), Strasbourg, PGCE (Oxford) MBA (OU) Librarian Mrs M Chare 2014 Mrs J Windsor BA (Russia) Mrs A Gould 2011 Mr C Standing 2009 CIPD - Post Graduate BA (Hons), PGCE BA (Hons), PGCE (Gloucestershire), STLS (Southampton) (Liverpool) Mrs S Cooper 2016 (Gloucestershire) BA (Hons) Cardiff PGCE (Oxford Brookes) Mr E Harris 2006 Mr J Sutherland 2005 BEd (Hons) West Sussex BEd (Hons) (Reading) Mrs R Bowen 2008 BA (Hons) (OU) Mrs R Harris 2017 Mrs L Sutherland 2004 BA (Hons) Bath BA (Hons) (Manchester Mr R Brown 1997 Met), PGCE (Manchester) BEng (Hons) (Exon), Mrs L Hunt 2012 PGCE (Bath) B.Ed (Hons) (West Sussex Mrs S Thomas 2011 Inst. of HE.) Forest School BEd (Hons) Sheffield Leader Mrs J Cahill 2001 BEd (Hons), PGCSpLD, Mr P West 2008 AMBDA (St. Paul and Mr D Jones 2006 BSc (Hons) (University St. Mary, Cheltenham) BEng (Hons), MCSE of West of England), (Loughborough) PGCE (Buckingham) Mr S Cahill BEd (Leeds) Dip Env Ed Mrs L Lawrence 2007 Mr Giles Wadsworth 2003 (Gloucestershire) BA (Hons) (Oxford Brookes) MA (Hons) Edinburgh PGCE (Glos)
FOR PARENTS 2019 HANDBOOK 35 DCPS Parents Handbook Master 2019_DCS Parents Handbook 2009 07/06/2019 17:54 Page 37
FOR PARENTS 2019 36 HANDBOOK DCPS Parents Handbook Master 2019_DCS Parents Handbook 2009 07/06/2019 17:54 Page 38
Policies and Procedures
All policies are available on request from the Front Office, some are also available to download from the School website.
• Admissions Policy • Anti-bullying Policy • Complaints Policy and Procedure • Data Protection Policy • Health and Safety Policy • Recruitment Selection and Disclosures Policy • Risk Assessment Policy • Safeguarding Policy
Full Name of School: Dean Close Preparatory School Address: Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 6QS Telephone: 01242 512217 Email: [email protected]
Headmaster: Mr Paddy Moss Chair of Governors: Mrs Kathryn Carden D E A N (Can be contacted through the School Office) DC CLOSE DCSF Number: 916/6034 CHELTENHAM EYFS Number: No under 3 provision, therefore not registered with EYFS Association Membership: IAPS PREPARATORY SCHOOL Registered Charity Number: 1086829 DCPS Parents Handbook Master 2019_DCS Parents Handbook 2009 07/06/2019 17:54 Page 39
D E A N DC CLOSE CHELTENHAM
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
DEAN CLOSE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Lansdown Road Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 6QS
Telephone 01242 512217 Email [email protected] www.deanclose.org.uk