Joining Information Preparatory School - kings · PDF fileJoining Information . Preparatory School. ... Choir School our aim is that our girls and boys will grow happily in understanding,

Joining Information Preparatory School

An Introduction from the PrincipalWelcome to King’s Preparatory SchoolOn Your Childs First Day at King’s Preparatory SchoolGuidelinesPastoral CareSchool FacilitiesThe School DayLunchAttendanceUniformPersonal PossessionsCurriculumSchool RulesReligionMusicWider OpportunitiesFriends of King’s RochesterVisits & VisitorsSport

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AN INTRODUCTIONFROM THE PRINCIPALA great education prepares young people of all abilities and with a multitude of diverse talents for a successful and fulfilled life. At its heart is the achievement of academic potential which comes from developing a love of learning and King’s is rightly proud of its academic record. Academic rigour and qualifications are central - but a real education goes way beyond this and develops the skills which enable young people to make the most of all of their abilities and trains them for life. Extensive extra-curricular activities give pupils the opportunity to try out many new experiences and this, along with a strong set of values, is the bedrock of a rounded, confident individual.

At King’s this runs true from the youngest children at the beginning of their learning journeys right through to those ready to embark on their adult lives.

I am delighted to welcome you into the King’s family.

Jeremy WalkerPrincipal

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WELCOME TO KING’S PREPARATORY SCHOOLAt King’s Rochester, we strive to ensure that your children’s School days are amongst the happiest days of their lives. Generations of parents have delighted in the real sense of achievement their children have experienced through our outstanding specialist teaching, small class sizes and individual attention. Whatever their talents, children will benefit from our broad and balanced curriculum. It is designed, not just to educate the academic side of your child, but to encourage them to grasp every opportunity through involvement in Music, Sports, Drama and After-School, extra-curricular activities. The Preparatory School is large enough to provide a full range of options and facilities, but small enough to give a family feel where our teachers can get to know everyone really well. Our Christian community welcomes children from a wide variety of backgrounds and faiths. As a Cathedral Choir School our aim is that our girls and boys will grow happily in understanding, knowledge and confidence, underpinned by the positive values which shape our School.

I will do all that I can to see that your child settles quickly and fully embraces life in the Preparatory School. I look forward to welcoming you and your child.

Roger OverendHeadmaster

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ON YOUR CHILDS FIRST DAY AT KING’SMost children will have attended a Taster Day with us before starting at King’s and you may also have attended anInformation Evening, so some of the School’s routines and reminders below may seem familiar. I do hope that the notes below will be helpful for your child’s first day at King’s.

Where to report

On the first day of term please come along with your child to the Preparatory School playground at 8:15 am and wait for the whistle at 8:25am. The Deputy Headmaster will gather all new pupils together and introduce them to their Forms. Please note that cars are not allowed in the yard.

What to wear

All new pupils should wear the official King’s Rochester uniform as outlined on the “Uniform” pages of this booklet. Uniform must be purchased in advance from the School’s online uniform supplier, Perry Uniform. (www.perryuniform.co.uk). Please adhere to the uniform guidelines and ensure that your child has the correct kit, with all items clearly labelled with his or her name.

What to bring

New pupils should bring the usual school stationery, something for a mid-morning snack and their games kit in the regulation kit bag marked on the outside with your child’s name in large, white stitching or with a giant name-tape. Please see that everything sent to School is clearly named.

What not to bring

Sweets, chocolate, electronic games, any kind of jewellery and mobile telephones.

The day’s activities

The new term will begin with a Form Period, followed by an Assembly. After morning break, lessons commence. Your child will then be issued with a timetable and a calendar for the term.

Home-Time and where to pick up

The Preparatory School ends at 4:15 pm and pupils should be collected from the Preparatory School yard. Please note that cars are not allowed to park in the Preparatory School yard on collection. However, should your child be staying to a club later in the day, then parents are welcome to park in the Preparatory School yard after 4:35 pm. Needless to say, we ask that you drive carefully on entering the yard as children are around for long periods each day.

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GUIDELINES

These Guidelines have been written to help you to understand the spirit which lies behind the School Rules which appear later in this booklet. They are largely a matter of common sense and are designed to remind us to care about others, about ourselves, about learning and about the environment.

a. Caring about others:To make sure that our School runs pleasantly and efficiently:

• treat other people with respect and consideration – never be unkind to anyone• bullying will not be tolerated. Bullying includes name-calling, cyber-bullying of any kind, teasing,

making unpleasant personal remarks, sexual or racial comments, as well as taking more obvious forms, such as physical violence. You must remember that while some bullying is physical, aggressive and deliberately intimidating, some is quiet, subtle, long-term and no less damaging

• you are expected to always be truthful, helpful and polite at all times• you should stand up and be quiet when a teacher or a visitor enters your classroom and be courteous at

all times. Say “good morning” and “please” and “thank you” and hold doors open for adults and each other• if you see a parent or visitor looking lost in the School, tell a member of staff or one of the secretaries• you are expected to be quiet walking to, in and from the Cathedral as well as walking to, in and from

Chadlington House for Assembly• when playing sport for the School, be courteous and a good sport. Greet and say goodbye to your

visitors. Thank the referee, umpire and your opponents at the end of the match• always look after your own property and respect that belonging to other people• if you find anything which has been lost, hand it either to its owner or a member of staff

b. Caring about yourselves:To reduce the chances of having an accident, or causing an accident, and to help you lead a healthy and successful career at school:

• do not run outside when moving to lunch, music and drama lessons or other lessons held at the Senior School

• do not run inside the main building and always keep to the left, especially on staircases• be careful when you cross the road. Thank motorists who stop for you at the humps in Vines Lane and at pedestrian crossings• at lunch, do not waste food. You may ask for a small portion but you are expected to eat what is on your

plate• take a pride in your appearance and always make sure your shoes are clean and shiny. Make sure all your

clothes and other belongings are clearly marked with a name tape• if you are feeling worried or unhappy about anything, you must tell someone• you can always talk to the Headmaster, the Deputy Heads, your Form Tutor, a particular member of

staff, Sister, The Chaplain, or any adult. If you are a boarder you can talk to any member of the House staff at St Margaret’s or School House. You may wish to talk to a senior boy or girl and the House Captains will usually be able to give you some guidance. Do not keep something pent up inside

you. We want you to be happy in School. Our job is to listen to you and help you - remember, you are never alone

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c. Caring about learning:To make sure you are able always to give of your best:

• be punctual for all lessons, games and other activities• ask permission from a teacher should you need to miss, or be late for, any lessons• always have a reading book with you when going to lessons• always try your best, work quietly and do not talk or fool around in class• if you find work too difficult, you should talk to the subject teacher or your Form Tutor or to Mr Medhurst• make sure that your work is always presented in the manner shown on the presentation guideline page

of the pupil handbook.

d. Caring about the environment:To make sure that our School is a pleasant and attractive place in which to work:

• do not drop litter but place it in the nearest waste paper/recycle bin. You will find numerous bins around the playground, in every classroom and in corridors

• keep your locker and classroom tidy• if you have an accident or break something tell an adult at once

PASTORAL CAREKing’s has a diverse social and cultural mix of pupils. The Christian ethos of the School encourages children to an awareness of their own spirituality and personal faith. The School day commences with a morning prayer.

Although there is a well-organised system of pastoral care throughout the School, pupils are encouraged to approach those teachers they wish for pastoral support. In the Preparatory School, the Form Tutor provides the primary care and first point of contact for pupils and parents. In addition, the Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster, Second Deputy and Chaplain are also available to pupils and parents at any time.

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SCHOOL FACILITIES

King’s Preparatory School is an integral part of King’s Rochester and the buildings occupy an enviable site overlooking The Paddock Playing Fields in the heart of the School. The main teaching building houses 13 classrooms, 2 Science Laboratories, a Library on two levels and a Computer suite containing 24 networked computers and 24 iPads.

There has been considerable upgrading of King’s facilities in recent years and these facilities are available to pupils from all three parts of the School. They include a 25 metre heated, indoor Swimming Pool, a Sports Centre, the David Dann Music building, a Conference Centre, Dining Room and Kitchen. Prep children also use School Hall in the Cathedral Precinct, where plays, lectures and performances take place.

All our buildings are secure and well-maintained. Classrooms are well-resourced, light and airy, providing ample and attractive space for the children and their staff.

As a Cathedral-linked School, children in the Preparatory School attend a weekly service in Cathedral, where the Carol Service is held at the end of the Michaelmas Term and Prize-Giving is held at the end of the Midsummer Term.

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THE SCHOOL DAY

School Hours

Monday to Friday - 8.25 am to 4.15 pm(After-School Clubs until 5.15/ 5.30 pm).

Daily Routine

8.25 Registration

8.30 Form Time/ Assembly/ Cathedral

8.50 Lesson 1

9.50 Lesson 2

10.50 Break

11.15 Lesson 3 12.15 Lesson 4

1.15 Lunch

2.05 Registration

2.15 Lesson 5

3.15 Lesson 6

4.15 After-School clubs (See Wider Opportunities and After-School Clubs section on page 26).

We offer Breakfast Club at 7.30am and After School Supper Club from 5.30 – 6.30pm each day as chargeable extras.

A freshly-cooked, two-course lunch is prepared on site and served daily in the Dining Room which is in the Conference Centre, adjacent to St Margaret’s House and Garden. School lunches are varied and appetising, with a choice of meat or vegetarian main courses. All pupils must attend lunch. Special dietary needs can be provided by our experienced catering team. On the occasions when pupils are playing matches away from School or are on a School trip, a packed lunch is provided at no additional cost.

LUNCH

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ATTENDANCE

Absence from School or from School engagements (such as sports fixtures, concerts, drama rehearsals, etc), except through illness, is not acceptable unless with the prior permission of the Headmaster. Requests for such leave of absence should be made in writing at least three weeks in advance and should be addressed directly to the Headmaster. Holidays should not be taken during term time.

Arrivals/Absence

Pupils are expected to be at School by 8.15am. The register for each Form is taken at 8.25am each day and again before afternoon School. For security reasons, it is extremely important that parents of Day Pupils who are absent for any reason, should telephone the office between 8.15am and 8.30am so that we are able to account for every child’s whereabouts. The School Office can be contacted on 01634 888577 or via email at prep@kings-rochester. co.uk. If a pupil is late arriving in the morning, he/she must register at the office in St Nicholas House on arrival. In the case of illness, a telephone call is only required for the first day of absence and upon a pupil’s return, a note should be given to the Form Tutor explaining the absence and giving information relevant to any special requirements, for example the specific period of time to be ‘Off Games/PE’.

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UNIFORM

The School is frequently congratulated on the smart appearance and polite manners of its pupils. We are particularly proud of the King’s Rochester uniform and pupils are expected to wear it with pride.

In this section you will find a comprehensive list of the uniform required for your child. Please check the list carefully and consult the image sheet (below) to ensure that you buy the correct new items. Items marked* may only be purchased from our uniform partner, Perry Uniform.(www.perryuniform.co.uk).

Ordering online

If you have access to the internet, please visit www.perryuniform.co.uk, select the ‘Find your school’ option and locate the ‘King’s Rochester’ section. You will find a comprehensive uniform list where you can order directly using the secure payment gateway.

If you do not have access to the internet

Please telephone Perry Uniform on 0113 238 9520. This line is manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to place orders. However, should you need to speak to the specially-trained uniform advisers, they are available on the same number between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday.

In-School Measuring/ Fitting Service

We provide a uniform measuring/fitting service in School, which enables you to get the right fit of uniform for your child. The School Showroom/Fitting service is located in Rookwood House, the building next to the Preparatory School playground. To book an appointment, you should go to Perry Uniform’s website (www. perryuniform.co.uk). Click on Book an Appointment, then select King’s Rochester Showroom and select a time.

Special services:

Perry Uniform offers several special services to make uniform ordering as easy and efficient for you as possible:

• A free returns service, should you wish to exchange an item for a different size or send an item back for a 100% no quibble refund.

• A name-taping service so that uniform arrives named and ready to wear and makes it harder to lose!• In exceptional circumstances, if your child is not a standard size, we can arrange for special sizes to be

made to fit.

The start of a new academic year is always very busy. Please be prepared! Give yourself plenty of time to receive your order and confirm the sizing ready for the September start of term. We strongly recommend that you place your order before the end of June.

Naming clothing

It is essential that all items of uniform are clearly labelled with name tapes.

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• Cap* Years 4 and 5 only• Boater* Years 6, 7 and 8 only• Winter Coat* School-crested windcheater• School Blazer* Navy blue with trim and school crest• Trousers Long, grey trousers (not charcoal)• Shirt White, long sleeved (short sleeved in the summer – optional). Collars must be stiffened and without buttons• Socks Short, plain grey• Shoes Traditional black polished shoes. Shoes with tassels or bars through the sides or at the front are not permitted• Jumper* School Regulation Grey with School trim• Tie* School tie• Scarf* School scarf with short stripes – (optional). No other scarves are allowed• Shoulder Bags* School Regulation. No other bags are permitted• Jewellery. No jewellery (including wrist bands) may be worn at the Preparatory School

*indicates that item(s) must be purchased from our uniform supplier Perry Uniform.

All items of uniform, games kit and sports equipment must be clearly named with a name-tape.

Boys’ Clothing List

Please note that unlike King’s Pre-Preparatory School, all pupils in the Preparatory School return in winter uniform at the start of the Michaelmas term.

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Boys’ Sportswear – All Year Round• Trainers. 1 pair (white if possible)• Shorts* 1 pair black shorts with School crest• Socks. 1 pair plain white ankle socks• Sports bag* with House colour• Polo Shirt* black/blue in School colours with crest• Swimming trunks* School Regulation black only with School crest• Swimming cap* School Regulation• Swimming bag* Blue with School crest• Fleece Tracksuit Top School colours with crest• Black Tracksuit bottoms School colours with crest• Waterproof Tracksuit top* School Regulation - Optional• Towel for swimming

Michaelmas and Lent Terms• Boots Football/rugby boots. All studs must bear the British Standard Safety Kitemark• Gum shield It is compulsory to wear mouthguards for rugby/hockey• Hockey stick (Lent Term only) For Year 5 upwards (Year 4 use School sticks)• Shin pads Compulsory for hockey and football• Hooped Shirt* in School colours with crest• Socks* blue socks with white hoops for rugby/football/hockey.

Midsummer Term• Sweater* 1 v-necked, white with trim• Baseball hat* School colours• Cricket box and pants, official School off-white shirt with crest, tracksuit bottoms (cricket whites are

only required if selected for a School team. Only the official School white cricket shirt with crest must be worn for matches)

All items of uniform, games kit and sports equipment must be clearly named with a name-tape.

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• Hat* Navy felt with the School band, Years 4 and 5 only• Boater* Years 6, 7 and 8 only Former Pre-Prep pupils may continue to use their Pre-Prep boaters, but these

must be replaced with the Preparatory/ Senior School boater when the need arises and definitely before the start of Year 5

• Winter Coat* School crested windcheater• School Blazer* Navy blue with trim and school crest• Skirt* Mid-Grey, inverted pleat skirt without waistband• Shirt. White, long sleeved (short sleeved in the summer [optional]). Collars must be stiffened and without buttons• Socks* Knee length plain grey socks or thick grey tights for Years 4, 5 and 6 only. Year 7 and Year 8 girls may wear grey socks or thin natural or black tights• Shoes. Plain black. High heeled or fashion shoes are not acceptable• Jumper* School Regulation Grey with School trim• Tie* School tie• Scarf* School scarf with short stripes (optional). No other scarves are allowed• Shoulder Bag* School Regulation No other bags are permitted• Jewellery. No jewellery (including wrist bands or any kind of earrings) are allowed to be

worn by girls at the Preparatory SchoolSummer WearSame as for winter wear except all wear white ankle socks (or thin skin-coloured tights are acceptable for Year7 and 8 girls. Midsummer Term – all girls wear boaters.

*indicates that item(s) must be purchased from our uniform supplier Perry Uniform.

All items of uniform, games kit and sports equipment must be clearly named with a name-tape.

Girls’ Clothing List

Please note that unlike King’s Pre-Preparatory School, all pupils in the Preparatory School return in winter uniform at the start of the Michaelmas Term.

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Girls’ Sportswear

• Shorts* 1 pair black shorts with crest• Skhort* In School colours with crest• Socks White ankle socks for all girls.• Socks* blue socks with white hoops worn for hockey• Polo Shirt fitted blue/black in School colours with crest• Trainers 1 pair (white if possible)• Baseball hat* School Colours (Midsummer Term only)• Sports bag* with House colour• Swimming costume* School Regulation black only with School crest• Swimming cap* School Regulation• Swimming bag* Blue with School crest• Fleece Tracksuit Top School colours with crest• Black Tracksuit bottoms School colours with crest• Waterproof Tracksuit top* School Regulation - Optional• Towel for swimming• Hockey stick Year 5 and upwards (Year 4 use School sticks) Michaelmas term only• Shin pads. Compulsory for hockey• Gum shield. It is compulsory to wear a mouthguard for hockey

All items of uniform, games kit and sports equipment must be clearly named with a name-tape.

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PERSONAL POSSESSIONSLaser pens and any kind of knives are strictly forbidden at School.

Mobile Phones: THESE ARE NOT ALLOWED FOR PUPILS IN YEAR 4 and YEAR 5. Pupils in other years may bring a mobile phone to school but only under the following strict conditions:

i) that the School undertakes no responsibility whatsoever for their theft/loss;ii) that they are switched off during the School day and not used at any timeiii) parents do not send their children text or voice messages during the School dayiv) that they are not used on School trips unless asked to do so by the member of staff presentv) that they are only used with a member of staff ’s prior permission. If permission is granted, the mobile phone should be used discreetly away from public view. If the mobile phone is used without permission, or if it goes off at School, it will be confiscated for the remainder of the term. If your child is feeling unwell, he/she should go to see Sister who, if necessary, will telephone parents. Your child may not use their mobile phone to contact parents directly asking to be collected. The telephone in the School Office is always available for use between 8.15am and 5.30pm.

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CURRICULUM

In the first three years of the Preparatory School (8+, 9+, 10+) all pupils study:

Art, Drama, Religious Studies, English, General Science, Geography, German, History, Computing, Mathematics,Music, Physical Education/Games, PSHEE.

French is introduced at Year 5 (9+).

Design and Technology is introduced at Year 6 (10+), Latin (top stream only) is introduced at Year 7 (11+), Spanish is an option at Year 7, Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught as separate disciplines at Year 8 (12+).

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SCHOOL RULES

General Principles

These rules are not intended as a complete guide to conduct. Pupils are naturally expected to act with good sense and courtesy and by appearance and behaviour, to uphold the good reputation of the School.

The rules apply during the whole of term both at School and on journeys to and from School. When pupils are at home and out of School uniform, their responsibility is to their parents and not directly to the School, although their behaviour and standards still reflect upon the School. We expect pupils to behave in a responsible manner both to themselves and others showing consideration, courtesy and respect for other people at all times and in all places.

External Bounds

During School hours (including breaks), pupils must remain within the general area of the Preparatory School premises. Exceptions are pupils who have permission from the Headmaster to be elsewhere. Pupils who have a lesson at the Senior School should not leave the Preparatory School environs until five minutes before the start of the lesson. They should walk together as a Form and return as a Form.

All Laboratories, the Computer Suite, Vines Hall, Chadlington Hall and the Swimming Pool may only be enteredin the presence of a member of staff.

Roads are to be crossed at specific points: Vines Lane opposite The Paddock gates, St Margaret’s Street opposite King Edward Road, or using the pedestrian crossing near Senior School. Lockington Grove is out of bounds at all times other than for picking up and setting down by the School gate.

Dress

Only the official School uniform, as it appears in the clothes and games list regulations, is allowed. Caps/hats must be worn to and from School each day by pupils in the Years 4 and 5. Winter coats in cold/wet weather should be worn. Caps/hats/boaters are required for all pupils on Tuesdays for our Cathedral Service and on all special occasions.

Hair

All pupils must have respectable hair all term. Boys should have their hair cut before the start of each term and again at half-term if necessary. Girls’ hair should be tied back (with black or navy hair bands) if it reaches shoulder length. Boys’ hair must not be below the top of the shirt collar or over the ears.‘Fashionable’ hairstyles or cuts that draw attention to the pupil are not allowed, nor is the use of any kind of gel or spray. Matters of appearance are inevitably subjective. Final decisions always rest with the School, within term time.

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Work

Pupils should be punctual for all School commitments and hand work in on time.

If the member of staff teaching a class has not arrived within five minutes of the beginning of a period, one pupil should report the fact to the office in St Nicholas House.

All pupils from Year 5 upwards are encouraged to use a fountain pen with a medium or fine nib. If necessary, left- handers should have a fountain pen with a special nib. Berol handwriting pens may be substituted for a fountain pen if agreed with the English teacher concerned.

Pupils are expected to take responsibility for their Prep, its organisation, completion and the meeting of any deadlines required.

Detention

Detention for Work: Tuesday and Thursday 4.20pm - 4.50pm. These take priority over all other engagements except those of Cathedral Choristers. Detention may be given for failure to do prep., or for class work of an inadequate standard.

Detention for Conduct: Tuesday and Thursday 4.20pm - 4.50pm. These take priority over all other engagements except those of Cathedral Choristers. For serious acts of misconduct a Headmaster’s detention will take place on a Saturday morning from 11.00am - 12.00pm.

Break-time

Sponge footballs only may be used on the Preparatory School yard. Bats and hockey sticks must not be used on the yard except during games lessons. No ball games are permitted on the Yard before or after School.

If a ball lands in King Edward Road during informal playground games, permission to retrieve it must be obtained from the member of staff on duty.

Informal games on the yard should stop whenever an adult crosses.

Property

• School property must not be defaced.• Damage to School property must be reported at once to a member of staff.• School premises must be kept tidy and litter and personal property must not be left lying about.• All clothes, games kit, books and other personal property must be clearly marked with the owner’s name.

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• Other pupils’ property may not be borrowed without the express permission of the owner.• Buying, selling, swapping or exchanging is strictly forbidden on School premises.

Personal Discipline

• In the interest of safety, pupils should walk on the left when inside the buildings.• All pupils should acknowledge adults courteously at all times. The School cap/boater should be raised

by boys when greeting adults and acknowledging courtesy from motorists who stop to allow one to cross the road. Girls should thank motorists by waving a hand as a thank you.

• Pupils should stand whenever an adult enters the room.• When a whistle is blown in the yard, all pupils should fall silent, stand still and await instructions.• At break-time/lunch-time, all pupils are expected to be out of the Preparatory School building unless

going to the Library.• At the close of the day, all pupils not involved in clubs should leave the Preparatory School building

promptly. If a pupil has not been collected by 4.25pm he/she should go to Prep Club in Rooms 9 and 10.• Pupils are expected to obey, without question, all instructions given by any member of staff.• Canned drinks or those in glass bottles may not be brought to School for safety reasons. Chewing gum,

bubble gum or any kind of sweets are not permitted in School. Pupils are not allowed to eat or drink in the Preparatory School building. All litter should be placed in the numerous litter bins/ recycling bins provided.

• Pupils walking on public footpaths must give way to other pedestrians especially in the Precinct, round The Paddock and on the way to and from the Alps. Never walk more than two abreast.

• During the evacuation of a building in the event of fire or a fire drill, the rule is to walk in silence and proceed to The Paddock.

• Pupils must be aware that, on occasions, motor vehicles use the Yard. In the interest of safety, they should exercise extreme caution, particularly when a horn is sounded. Pupils should respond to the staff whistle and move out of the way when required.

• Pupils are expected to observe good table manners at meal times.

Work

If a pupil produces good quality work or is deemed to have undertaken his or her work with much effort, a ‘Merit Disc’ is awarded by the Master or Mistress who teaches them. A record of each pupil’s Merit Discs is kept in their Form Room and, when they reach ten in a term, that achievement is mentioned in Assembly. Should a pupil reach twenty in a term for a wide range of subjects, then a book token is awarded.

Assessment Cards giving grades for Effort and Achievement are issued twice each term and all parents are invited to a Parents’ Evening during the academic year. All pupils have written examinations in the Midsummer Term.

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The grades are:

For Attainment:

A – ExcellentB – Above AverageC – AverageD – Below averageE – Significantly below average

For Effort: 1

1– Exceeding Expectations2 – Meeting Expectations3 – Not Meeting Expectations4 – Significantly below expectations

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Prep (Homework)

The Director of Studies publishes the prep timetable for the year in September.

Occasionally it is not possible for prep to be set for an evening when pupils have a lesson in the subject on that day. In this case pupils should be particularly careful to ensure that prep is completed by the appropriate deadline. Preps must be handed in the morning after they are set. Parents should sign each day the completed prep work produced by their child. The facility is available for pupils to complete prep under staff supervision each evening from 4.15pm - 5.15pm. Cathedral Choristers only have one prep per evening on singing days.

Prep Lengths:

Year 4 - 1 x 30 minutes plus reading (Prep for Year 4 is usually completed during the School day.) Year 5 - 1 x 40 minutes plus readingYear 6 - 2 x 30 minutesYear 7 - 2 x 30 minutesYear 8 - 2 or 3 x 30 minutes

Conduct

We believe in conduct by example and encouragement and look to praise whenever possible. To this end there is a system of Credits which are awarded for all aspects of School life outside the academic arena.

If reprimand should be necessary then there is a tiered system for sanctions.

A break-time might be curtailed, a de-merit slip issued, or a conduct detention of half an hour may be deemed suitable. For more serious acts of misconduct, a Headmaster’s Detention may be given. This is served on a Saturday morning from 11.00am - 12.00pm. In each case the Headmaster maintains a full record of each incident. Suspension and expulsion are the ultimate sanctions.

Houses

Each pupil in the Preparatory School is placed in one of four Houses.The idea of the House system is to provide a vertical mix throughout the School so that pupils can mix and socialise with others from different age groups and to allow the pupil a second member of staff with whom they may identify.The Houses, St Andrew, St Nicholas, St Peter and St William, compete against each other in numerous events, all major sports and for work and conduct cups. When pupils move into the Senior School there is a sense of continuity as each of the Preparatory School Houses match up to the appropriate House in the Senior School. A boarding pupil from St William’s will go to St Margaret’s House (girls) or School House (boys).

House Captains are appointed from Year 8 and there are regular House meetings throughout each term.

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School Prizes

Each year numerous prizes are awarded on Prize-Giving Day in the Cathedral. The award of School Prizes to pupils is based on their performance throughout the year and/or in the end of year examinations. No pupil should normally receive more than two prizes, except in the case of those pupils gaining Academic Scholarships, who may be awarded additional subject prizes. The purpose of this regulation is that prizes should be distributed as widely as possible amongst the pupil body to reward and encourage merit.

Monitors

Pupils in Year 8 are given responsibility as School Monitors. There are various Monitors’ duties, including the role of House Captain.

School Council

Usually one pupil from each Form is elected to represent that Form on the School Council and the Council meets several times each term. The School Council can raise any matters of concern and put forward ideas which may benefit the whole pupil community.

Medical Matters

If a child is unwell, parents are asked to telephone the School before 8.25 am on the first day of absence and send a written note when the child returns indicating the reason for absence. We ask that children are kept at home if they are unwell or needing antibiotics at strict 4-hourly intervals. Prescribed medicines can only be administered at School if the original bottles or containers are handed in, clearly labelled with the child’s name and dosage. An Administration of Medicine consent form must also be signed by parents in this situation. Asthma inhalers and epi-pens should also be carefully labelled with the child’s name and dosage but can, of course, be kept by the child throughout the day, as long as the teacher is aware. If children wear glasses, lenses should be shatterproof. A spare inhaler or epi-pen will be required for the School Office.

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RELIGION

King’s Rochester is a Christian School. We have established links with Rochester Cathedral and services are held regularly in the Cathedral for children of all ages. The School Chaplain leads our acts of worship and visiting Clergy are invited to speak on a regular basis.

All children are expected to take part in the regular religious activities of the School and to understand that itsdaily life is guided by the principles of Christianity – above all, consideration and care for others.

However, although we are a school of Christian foundation, children are also taught about all other major world faiths through their Religious Studies lessons and staff and pupils from a variety of religions are fully integrated and welcomed in School.

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MUSIC

Regular music ensembles include Orchestra,Wind Band, Fiddle Group, Brass Ensemble, Cello Group, Rock Band and Choirs. Numerous pupils study instruments and receive a weekly one-to-one lesson. Requests for music tuition should be addressed to the Director of Music, Mrs Jackie Hines. Pupils can also receive after - school lessons in Ballet and Irish Dancing. The Preparatory School educates all of the Boy, and several of the Girl, Cathedral Choristers.

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WIDER OPPORTUNITIESAfter - School Clubs and Activities

It is hoped that every pupil will join at least one club or activity. These mainly take place after school, but some are during the lunch break. A full list of these and their timings is recorded in the termly School calendar. The list does change so pupils should keep their eyes open for what is on offer. The pupils usually have opportunities to participate in some of the following clubs during the course of the year:

Football, Rugby, Hockey, Netball, Swimming, Indoor Cricket, Cricket, Running Club, Chess, Drama, Library, Needlecraft, Ballet, Irish Dancing, Art, Design Technology, Film Club, LAMDA, Gardening Club, Jewellery-Making, Photography.

There are also numerous musical activities during the course of each week which are listed in the termly calendar.

FRIENDS OF KING’S ROCHESTERThe ethos of The Friends is to promote involvement in many social aspects of life at King’s for all community members. Naturally, willing hands are always needed for our events and we do appreciate that everyone has different time constraints and skills but if you would like to know more, or have any suggestions please email: [email protected]

The Friends hold an annual Fireworks BBQ party in November, an event in February, a Ladies’ Luncheon in May and the Sixth-Form Leavers’ Ball at the end of the Midsummer Term.

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VISITS AND VISITORS

School Trips

The Preparatory School believes that learning through experience is central to any pupil’s time at School. To this end we offer a wide range of academic and sporting trips and visits throughout the year, both in term time and during holiday time.

Below is just a small selection of some of the trips and visits which have been undertaken recently.

• Natural History Museum for Earth Science Day• National Army Museum• Day trips to France• Year 8 First World War Battlefields’ visit toYpres • The British Museum• Hastings Castle and Battle site• Canterbury Cathedral and St Augustine’s Abbey• Theatre Visits• Musical Concerts• Various Geography field studies• Bletchley Park• German exchange programme

Sports fixtures and co-curricular trips and outings which enrich your child’s curriculum are a standard part of school life at King’s Rochester. Transport is provided by the School for such outings, usually in School minibuses and sometimes on trains or in larger coaches hired for the purpose by staff in charge of the event. If your child is involved in such an event, King’s Rochester reserves the right to convey him/ her on such transport as appropriate unless we have prior confirmation from the parent/ guardian/ carer that they do not wish us to do so. If no such confirmation has been received, the School assumes consent has been given.

Similarly, some trips out of School for our younger pupils may be to venues which are local enough to be reached on foot or to parts of the School site which necessitate crossing the public areas between School buildings. In these instances, children will be accompanied by staff and the School reserves the right to take your child on such outings outside the boundaries of King’s Rochester unless we have prior confirmation from the parent/ guardian/ carer that they do not wish us to do so. If no such confirmation has been received, theSchool assumes consent has been given.

• Dover Castle / Museum• London Docklands• Shorne Country Park• Howletts Zoo• The Painted House, Dover• Saxon Workshop Day• Bewl Water• Greenwich Museum• Cutty Sark• Sports Tour to Barbados• French Theatre visit

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SPORT

King’s Rochester Sports Centre

King’s Rochester Sports Centre (KRSC) provides first-rate sporting facilities for our pupils. The Centre offers a newly-refurbished Sports Hall, new sports equipment including fitness machines for the gym, 7 outdoor courts for tennis (Lawn Tennis Association approved) and netball, a physio suite, bar, conference rooms and dining area with catering facilities. A full programme of holiday activities is also on offer for children during school holidays. More details on all that the Centre offers can be obtained by calling them on 01634 818422.

Selection for Fixtures

The expectation is that all pupils, if selected to represent the School, will be available from Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings. Team-sheets will be provided for all fixtures and fixtures are published in the School Calendar. There is an expectation that team players should attend after-school practices as required.

The main sport for boys in the Michaelmas term is Rugby, while Hockey and Cricket are the principal games in the Lent and Midsummer terms respectively. Athletics for all also features in the Midsummer term.

In the Michaelmas term Soccer is played as an extra-curricular activity.

The girls’ main sports are Hockey and Netball throughout the winter terms, while Rounders is played in theMidsummer term. Athletics for all also features in the Midsummer Term.

If through illness you are unable to participate in sports on any day, a note must be written to explain the reason and handed to Mr Mitchell or Mrs Heddershaw.

Directions to away fixtures can be found on the School’s Sport Website www.kings-rochestersports.co.uk

Captaincy

Captains are normally selected at the beginning of the season, but may, on occasions, be changed around to give others a chance to lead a team. The Captain is not always the best player. He or she is normally considered to be the most responsible member of a team and is therefore given the opportunity to use this quality to serve not only his/her team mates and the School but also the game itself. The rule is to “lead by example”.

School Colours

Colours (Full, Half and Colts) are awarded for representing the School in sport, and for a number of non-sporting activities. These are denoted by a ribbon worn on the breast pocket of the School blazer.

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Full Colours

These are awarded to pupils for excellence and commitment (Potential County Standard or thereabouts for sports).

Half Colours

These are awarded to pupils who show a degree of ability and have been both committed and loyal to the sport or activity over a sustained period of time.

Colts Badges

Awards are made in sport at Under 11 level for pupils who have shown exceptional ability and commitment throughout Years 4, 5 and 6. These are denoted by badges worn on the School blazer.

Method of Appointment

Staff fill in a Colours recommendation form. The Committee (Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster, Head of Sport)following consultation, meets towards the end of term to discuss all recommendations.

Colours are presented at the final Assembly of term. The Colours employed at present are:

Athletics - FawnRugby - RedSwimming - Light Blue Football - Royal Blue Hockey - Emerald Cricket - WhiteNetball - Purple Rounders - Brown Chess -YellowDrama - MaroonMusic - GreyGeneral Knowledge - Turquoise

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Our Educational AimsTo challenge and support each pupil to make the most of their academic and personal potential.

To achieve excellent results through developing an enquiring mind and a passion for learning.

To develop skills, qualities and interests through activities and opportunities beyond the classroom.

To be a nurturing community that develops values within the setting of Christianity.

www.kings-rochester.co.uk

A Community That Enables Individuals to Flourish

We believe in a broad education because we want our pupils to develop characteristics that will sustain them through life. Such qualities are not always allowed to flourish through exams and we aim to support our pupils in becoming:

Ambitious ConfidentConscientious Enquiring HappyMoralResilient

King’s RochesterSatis HouseBoley HillRochester Kent ME1 1TEUnited Kingdom

T: (+44) 0 1634 888590F: (+44) 0 1634 888505E: [email protected]

www.kings-rochester.co.uk

May 2017