truro school boarding handbook 2017 18 · boarding handbook 2017-18. 2 ... boarding house rules and...
TRANSCRIPT
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Truro School
Boarding Handbook
2017-18
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Contents
Statement of Boarding Principles and Practice 4
The Boarding Community 5
Boarding House Rules and Code of Conduct 6
Our Boarding Team 7
Useful Contact Details 8
The Boarding Houses 9
Term Dates 2017/18 11
Information for the start of term 12
Sample Induction Programme 13
Arriving/Returning to the Boarding Houses 14
Daily Routine 15
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Contents
School Uniform and Appearance Rules 17
School Life 19
Computers and IT 20
Homework 22
Meals 23
Useful Information 24
Pastoral Care 25
Medical Centre 26
Financial Matters 27
International Students 28
Social Trips, Visits, Clubs and Activities 29
Further Information for Parents 32
School Rules 33
Essential Information 35
Appendix A 36
Appendix B 38
Appendix C 39
School Map 40
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Statement of Boarding Principles and Practice
History of Truro School
Truro Wesleyan College (referred to as Truro College) was founded by Wesleyan Methodists in November
1879, and on 20 January 1880 lessons began at sites in River Street and Strangeways Terrace, Truro. The
present site was completed in 1882. The school was founded as an alternative to the Church of England's
ancient Truro Grammar School. The name Truro College was changed to Truro School in 1931 when it
was considered that it was "pretentious...to claim the style of "College" if its pupils are for the most part
below the age of 18". The preparatory department was opened in 1936. Girls were admitted into the sixth
form in 1976, and it became fully co-educational in 1990. To date we have around 750 pupils of which
around 75 pupils are boarders
Boarding at Truro School – the general structure of pastoral care
Truro School has a long history of boarding and believes that the community atmosphere of the school is
greatly enhanced by the presence of boarders. Boarding is offered to those pupils (from the UK or
overseas) who wish to board either full board, weekly board or flexi board. Boarders although representing
only a small percentage of the population are seen as an integral part of life at school, they represent the
heart of the school. There are four relatively small houses, two for girls, Malvern for senior girls and
Pentreve for junior girls and two boys houses Trennick for senior boys and Poltisco for junior boys. Each
house has a dedicated live in Housemaster or mistress, a deputy Housemaster or mistress and a team of
tutors, whose pastoral work is essential to maintain the smooth running of the boarding community and to
enhance the quality of life of the pupils whilst they are in school. Boarding at Truro School is overseen by
the Head of Boarding, who is also the Housemistress of Malvern House.
Facilities and Opportunities
The boarding houses are continually being upgraded and developed on a rolling programme. All houses
have their own separate recreation spaces, separate kitchens, bathrooms and IT suites.
The boarding staff provide an extensive programme of activities for the boarders during evenings and
weekends which allows boarders to have access to impressive sports and recreation facilities within the
main school campus. Boarders also regularly enjoy cultural activities such as celebrations of the Chinese
New Year as well as for example, organise and attend their own quiz and curry nights. Cornwall naturally
lends itself to the outdoors and as a community we certainly make the most of the activities available in this
county particularly at the weekends. Boarders can also participate in a flourishing D of E programme.
Welfare
Pupils are provided with three very good meals each day when boarding and the sixth form also have
access to the informal environment of the school’s café. Drinks and snacks are also readily available in all
of the houses. Welfare support is provided through the pastoral teams in the houses, through class tutors
and Heads of Years as well as through the medical team in the Health Centre. Spiritual guidance is
provided by the Chaplain and HM. We have our own counsellor as well as an independent listener. The
overseas pupils also have access the EFL lessons during both the evenings and weekends. At Truro
School we also pay much attention to ‘pupil voice’ through house meetings, committees, surveys and
parental feedback.
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The Boarding Community
Welcome to Truro School’s boarding community. We hope that the information in this folder will give you an idea of what life will be like as a boarder at Truro School, whether weekly or full.
Boarding Mission Statement
The most important aim is to provide all the advantages of boarding education within the wider ethos of the school as a whole.
Among the aims of boarding education here, are the following:
1. To live a life which provides boarders with an important moral and social education: they have to "get on with people" with many different personalities and backgrounds; they are likely to encounter many situations (major and minor) which call into question a huge range of issues requiring moral judgement. (e.g. respect for other people's property and personality; the problems of peer-group pressure; the relationship between work and leisure). All this will occur in the context of the care and guidance of the house staff; such issues will be discussed in house meetings and other group discussion as well as in individual contact with staff. Boarders will also be given opportunities for taking responsibility - particularly as they get older, in doing so allowing them to make a positive contribution to the boarding community. The prefect system is one way in which this is done.
The aim is to promote a particular quality of personal relationships. This is sometimes known as "the hidden curriculum" of boarding schools, and pupils who have benefited from it tend to find the transition to Higher Education, for example, easier than those who have lived at home until they are 18 or 19. One aim of boarding, to quote one Housemaster, is to "produce good parents of the future".
2. To live in a routine which is conducive to good academic performance and provides opportunities for extra-curricular activities, in order to enjoy and achieve. The first aim entails following a regular routine of prep during the evenings together as a group (which is supervised in the earlier years but which entails greater responsibility and self-organisation later). An incidental advantage is that boarders have some opportunity during the evenings to consult staff on academic matters.
The second allows boarders to participate in a vast array of enjoyable activities, some active to help promote healthy lifestyles, others more creative and relaxing. While providing these advantages of communal living, the school also respects the boarders’ need for privacy, and their rights to some of the features of home-life.
The role of the resident House Staff is a vitally important one: they establish the "tone" of relationships within the house. They are people that the boarders get to know very well, and that inspire the confidence of boarders. The School expects them to provide boarders with sympathetic attention when they need support and advice; they are also expected to maintain a clear and firm framework of discipline in which the boarders can grow up well. House Staff are also expected to maintain good contacts with parents. The House Staff meet regularly both informally and formally as a group: the purpose of such meetings is not only administrative but also to promote a common sense of purpose. ‘Life Lessons’ are led by the House Staff, as parents would at home, on such matters as e-safety, growing up, managing finances, relationships and personal safety which is part of our ’residential curriculum’ . All House Masters and Mistresses (and Assistants) are teachers within the school and cover a variety of subject areas.
Andrew Gordon-Brown
Headmaster
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Boarding House Rules
The boarding house is run by the house staff mainly on trust and respect, hence the boarding rules are simple and straightforward but it is important that they are followed correctly.
Boarders need to keep all areas of the house clean and tidy regardless of whether they are communal areas or personal bedrooms. The staff will do regular bedroom checks. The boarders will also be required to join a kitchen rota for tidying away dishes.
Boarders can only enter other boarder’s bedrooms when the boarder is present or they have express permission from the boarder to enter the room.
Any guests to the house must be signed in at the door. All guests must be both signed in and introduced to the member of staff on duty. They must also only stay in the communal areas and are not permitted in bedrooms.
1st – 5th year boarders can only return to the boarding house during the day if they have the express permission of the Housemaster/Mistress. Lower and Upper Sixth can only return to the house if they follow the arrangements that each house has laid down in advance.
When visiting town, 1st to 3rd years need the express permission of a member of staff as well as use a signing out system. 4th, 5th and Sixth Form must sign out in the appropriate book or on the appropriate sheet.
After prep boarders can choose to follow a programme of activities devised for all boarders which includes going to the gym, sports hall and swimming etc. This programme is advertised in each house every term.
Weekend arrangements must be clarified in advance and the correct permission must be sought from both the parents of the boarder, the house staff and the parents of the pupils whose house they may be visiting.
Under no circumstances must any boarder travel in a car, with the exception of their family car, without the express permission of their parents and Housemaster/Mistress.
Boarders should ensure that they wash their bedding regularly and maintain their own high standards of personal cleanliness.
Boarders’ Code of Conduct
Be respectful to others, their space and property.
Respect other people’s working patterns – for example, by being quiet when room-mates want to finish work in free time.
Be polite – whether there are adults present or not - open doors and greet staff and visitors.
Trust each other, and be trustworthy, honest and kind.
Look after each other. We all have a responsibility, adults and students, to make sure that boarders are safe and happy. This also includes situations outside school.
Challenge ourselves and develop our interests – there are lots of opportunities to try new things and see new places– we should make the most of them.
Have fun! We enjoy each others’ company and being a group as well as individuals.
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Role Background Information
Housemistress of Malvern
Mrs Sarah Mulready:
01872 246030
My name is Sarah Mulready and I am a mathematics teacher at Truro School. I
moved to Cornwall at the age of 6, and grew up in St Austell alongside my two
brothers and sister. Having completed a Joint Honours Degree in Mathematics
and Sport Science at The University of Birmingham I returned to Cornwall and
completed the Cornwall School Centred Initial Teacher programme.
My experiences in the boarding community include working as a Resident
Tutor in Malvern House , Assistant Housemistress in Pentreve House (Junior
Boys’ Boarding) for four years and most recently Housemistress of Pentreve.
From September 207, I will be taking up Housemistress of Malvern House.
I now live in Malvern House with my husband and three young daughters,
Poppy, Matilda and Bella. My hobbies include swimming, cycling and running.
Housemaster of Trennick
Mr Tom Copeland:
01872 246033
I am Tom Copeland and the Housemaster of the boys’ houses. I have returned
to Cornwall from working at Millfield School in Somerset. I have also taught in
boarding schools in Switzerland, Oxford and New Zealand since gaining a
PGCE from Bath University.
I was born in Truro and grew up not far from the city. It gives me a great deal of
pleasure to come back to the county with Alex, my wife, and Harry and Charlie,
our two sons.
I teach maths and enjoy coaching rugby. I am also an enthusiastic cyclist,
sailor and hiker.
Housemaster of Poltisco
Mr Andy Lawrence:
01872 246105
Mr Andy Lawrence is the Housemaster of Poltisco, and has been at Truro School for over 17 years, the last 15 of which he has been a member of the boarding staff, caring for boys from 11 to 18.
“Poltisco really is a ‘home from home’. We are passionate about providing an environment which shapes our boys as people. We encourage them to develop a feeling of mutual respect and appreciation, as they share experiences with other boys from the UK and around the world. Accommodating boys in 1st Year to 4th Year means that Poltisco House is, for many, their first experience of boarding and we look to ensure that it is a positive one in every way.” Andy Lawrence, Housemaster
Housemistress of Pentreve
Miss Kensa Broadhurst
01872 246029
Miss Broadhurst will be joining Truro School as Housemistress of Pentreve House from September 2017.
All of our boarding staff live within the boarding houses and also teach at Truro School.
They help to provide a sense of community in a homely environment and are there to personally support
the boarders and give them the guidance they require right through until they leave Sixth Form.
Our boarding house staff are all trained in first-aid and work alongside our school nurses to provide day-
to-day medical requirements.
Our Boarding Team
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Headmaster: Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown
Deputy Head (Academic): Dr. Shaun Pope
Deputy Head (Pastoral): Mrs Emma Ellison
Chaplain - Aubin de Gruchy 01872 271061 [email protected]
Deputy Head - Shaun Pope 01872 246048 [email protected]
Deputy Head - Emma Ellison 01872 246067 [email protected]
Examinations Officer - Sarah Fenlon 01872 246082 [email protected]
Medical Centre - Mrs Armstrong/Mrs Trevail 01872 246020 [email protected]
Music Office 01872 246097 [email protected]
School Office 01872 246011 / 012 [email protected]
Trennick House
Tom Copeland
Duty Mobile : 07730 525260
Malvern House
Sarah Mulready
Duty Mobile: 07730 525261
Poltisco House
Andy Lawrence
Duty Mobile: 07841 336605
Pentreve House
Kensa Broadhurst
Duty Mobile: 07808 774357
Useful Contact Details and Telephone Numbers
School Telephone number: 01872 272763
Email: [email protected]
Address: Truro School
Trennick Lane
Truro
TR1 1TH
Cornwall
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Malvern House
(Senior Girls)
5th Years—Sixth Form
With 22 bedrooms, a large
kitchen with comfy sofas and
a lounge area, Malvern is the
perfect place for girls to have
fun, be happy and enjoy their
time with each other.
Trennick House
(Senior Boys)
5th Years—Sixth Form
Trennick is the biggest of the
boarding houses with 35
bedrooms, two separate
lounge areas and a kitchen.
Based in the heart of the main
school, the house is home to
5th Year and Sixth Form
boarders, most of whom have
their own room.
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Poltisco House - 1st to 4th
Year Boys
Nestled in the school grounds,
Poltisco has recently been
refurbished and is now home to
the Junior Boys’ Boarding at
Truro School.
Pentreve House - 1st to 4th Year
Girls
Originally opened as a Truro School
boarding house in 1930, Pentreve
was refurbished in summer 2016 to
once again become home to the
junior girls boarding community.
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Term Dates 2017-18
Autumn Term 2017
New Boarders arrive Saturday, 2 September
Transport leaves Heathrow at 10am Saturday, 2 September
Staff INSET Monday, 4 September
Induction Day (1st Year and Lower Sixth) Tuesday, 5 September
Autumn Term begins Wednesday, 6 September
Half Term 23 October - 3 November
Boarders leave Friday, 20 October
Boarders return Sunday, 3 November
End of Term Friday, 15 December
Boarders’ transport leaves for Heathrow at 8am Saturday, 16 December
Spring Term 2018
Staff INSET Wednesday, 3 January
Boarders Return Wednesday, 3 January
Transport leaves Heathrow at 10am Wednesday, 3 January
Spring Term begins Thursday, 4 January
Half Term 12 – 16 February
Boarders leave Friday, 9 February
Boarders return Sunday, 18 February
End of Term Thursday, 29 March
Boarders’ transport leaves for Heathrow at 8am Thursday, 29 March
Good Friday Friday, 30 March
Easter Monday Monday, 2 April
Summer Term 2018
Boarders Return Wednesday, 18 April
Transport leaves Heathrow at 10am Wednesday, 18 April
Summer Term begins Thursday, 19 April
Early May Bank Holiday Monday, 7 May
Half Term 28 May – 1 June
Boarders leave Friday, 25 May
Boarders return Sunday, 3 June
End of Term Friday, 6 July
Boarders’ transport leaves for Heathrow at 8am Saturday,7 July
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Returning / New boarders’ Information for the Start of Term
At the start of the new term, please could all students ensure:
School uniform is correct, clean and an appropriate fit - i.e. shirts are long enough to tuck in and
skirts are knee length
All uniform is clearly labelled and named.
Hair is an appropriate colour and cut
Make-up is minimal and natural-looking
Useful items: alarm clock, photographs and posters for a homely feel to their new room.
Headphones so distraction is minimal to the fellow boarding family. A waterproof, winter coat and
wellington boots will also be useful for the cold and wet weather.
Students’ Rooms
Depending on age group students may have their own room (mainly sixth form) or they may share. However, shared rooms are bigger rooms so everyone has their own wardrobe, desk and lockable space. Each student also has a personal pin-board so they can bring along photographs and posters which they can put up to quickly make their room feel like home. Never use sellotape or blu tac on the walls or ceiling. It is also possible to bring their own quilts, pillows and bedding. All rooms will be inspected after students’ departure and any damage will generate a recharge on their bill.
None of the rooms in Truro School’s boarding houses are ‘en suite’ but there are lots of showers and toilets close by.
A few things to remember – especially if sharing a room:
Be considerate – nobody wants dirty laundry on their side of the room.
Make sure the alarm clock is set for the right time, room mates do not want to be woken in the middle of the night!
If sharing a room, make sure it really is shared with equal wall and floor space.
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Sample Induction Programme for Boarders September 2017
(Subject to Change)
Saturday 2 September
New boarders arrive – 2–9pm. Information to be sent to House Staff well in advance of pupils arrival
Unpack, socialise
Boarders Supper in dining room, meet boarders from other houses
DVD night with Pizza’s – all boarders
Sunday 3 September
10.45am – Brunch
12pm – 3.00pm Beach trip (Bowling if wet)
3.30pm – Meeting with Chaplain and EAL staff
5.45pm – Boarders Supper
6.45pm – Uniform and room checks
7.30pm – House social events – games etc
Monday 4 September
8.30am - Breakfast
9.30am – Guided tours of town, Tescos, banks and shops
12.45pm – Lunch
1.15pm – Medical centre visits on rotation all afternoon
2.15pm – 5.30pm – Sports hall activities
5.45pm – Boarders supper
6.30pm – All of the boarders have a group meeting
Tuesday 5 September
All Day - 1st and L6th School Induction Programme
2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th years – Tours of the School followed by town time, with house prefects
1.15pm – School Lunch
2.30pm – Bowling outing
5.45pm – Boarders BBQ
6.45pm – Passport collection
7.15pm – Prepare for school the next day
Wednesday 6 September (Start of Term)
Evening Fire drill and recap of all fire regulations
Saturday 9 September
Brunch
All tier 4 pupils to police station in the morning (for those who are required)
EAL testing and assessment in the afternoon
Supper followed by cinema trip
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Arrival Times
Arrival time at the beginning of term must be between 2pm and 9pm on the date indicated and this information must be passed to the house staff well in advance of the student’s arrival. The Housemaster/mistress will be in contact over the summer holidays and will ask for the student’s arrival details at this point. There will be minibus collection from Heathrow early morning on the day of arrival to school from an overnight international flight and this needs to be arranged in advance with the boarding staff via the booking form.
After the holidays boarders should not return before 2.00pm unless otherwise arranged with their house staff. Students will be expected to return by 9.00pm on the day before lessons start unless otherwise arranged.
End of Term and Half-Term Holidays
Half-term usually finishes at 3.45pm on the day stated. Arrangements should be made to ensure that you are able to leave by 6.00pm at the latest. International students will be authorised leave from school if they have to leave earlier on that day to enable them to catch international flights. At the end of term boarders leave the morning following the last day of term by 10am.
Please note that the boarding houses will be closed during half-term breaks and holidays. Rooms must be cleared of possessions during the three main holiday periods (Christmas, Easter and Summer) during which time storage will be made available for international students.
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Time Individual Houses may vary slightly from the timings listed
7.15am Wake-up
7.55am Roll-Call and Breakfast
8.45am School Registration
Daily Routine
Weekdays
The time for school lunch depends on the year group and follows a weekly rota. A range of activities and facilities is on offer during the lunch hour and after school. A detailed list is published at the
beginning of every term at the back of the Calendar. Students are encouraged to join in as much as possible.
Registration
8.45am
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
Period 1:
8.55 – 9.45am
Period 1:
8.55am – 9.45am
Period 2:
9.45 – 10.35am
Period 2:
9.45am – 10.35am
Pastoral (lesson on Wednesday)
Chapel/Tutor/
Assembly/
House
10.40 – 10.55am
Chapel/Tutor/
Assembly/
House
10.40 – 10.55am
Period 3:
10.40am – 11.30am
Chapel/Tutor/
Assembly/
House
10.40 – 10.55am
Chapel/Tutor/
Assembly/
House
10.40 – 10.55am
Break Break: 10.55– 11.15am
Break: 10.55 – 11.15am
Break: 11.30 – 11.50am
Break: 10.55 – 11.15am
Break: 10.55 – 11.15am
Period 3: 11.15am – 12.05pm
Period 4:
11.50am – 12.40pm
Period 4:
12.10 – 1.00pm
1st & 2nd Yrs Chapel: 12.45 – 1.00pm
3rd Yrs to Upper Sixth Period 5:
12.45 – 1.35pm
Lunch 1.00 – 2.00pm 1.00 – 2.00pm Lunch 1.00 – 2.00pm 1.00 – 2.00pm
Period 5:
2.00 – 2.50pm
Wednesday Afternoon Activ-ities
Period 6:
2.55 – 3.45pm
3.50pm – 5.00pm
Clubs and after-school activities
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Saturday and Sunday
11am Brunch in the Dining Hall
12pm House activities and outings organised
5.45pm Evening meal in the Dining Hall
Bedtimes at House Staff discretion
5.45pm Evening meal in the Dining Hall
Prep and Bedtimes at the direction of the House Staff
Friday Evening
5.45pm Evening meal in the Dining Hall
Prep
1st, 2
nd and 3
rd Years - 6.30pm—8pm
4th Years - 6.30pm—8pm
5th
Years and Sixth Form - 6.45-9pm (with 10 min break)
9.00pm Roll-Call for 1st-4
th Years
9.15pm 1st Years’ bedtime – lights out at 9.30pm
9.30pm 2nd
Years’ bedtime – lights out at 9.45pm
9.45pm 3rd
Years’ bedtime - lights out 10pm/Roll-Call for 5th Year and Sixth Form
10.00pm 4th Years’ bedtime—lights out at 10.15pm
10.30pm All other students in their own rooms
11.00pm House quiet
Daily Routine Continued
Week days
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Full uniform must be worn on the school campus, including in the Dining Hall, and when travelling to and from school. Summer uniform is only permitted during specific periods of time by permission of the Headmaster.
Guidelines on Dress and Appearance
Please note that the general rule is that eccentricities of dress and appearance are not allowed, and staff reserve the right to make a judgement on this.
Personal Appearance
1. Girls’ and Boys’ Hair: This should be neat and conventional. Eccentric styles that draw attention are not acceptable, and only plain hair accessories may be worn. It is recommended for health and safety reasons that long hair is tied back.
2. Boys’ Facial Hair: Boys should always be clean-shaven.
3. Girls’ Make-up: 1st to 3rd Years are not allowed to wear make up, and 4th to 5th Years are only permitted to wear natural looking make-up. Only clear nail-varnish is allowed.
4. Girls’ and Boys’ Piercings and Tattoos: Any form of visible body-piercing or tattooing is not allowed, except that girls may have pierced ears.
5. Girls’ and Boys’ Jewellery:1st to 5th Year boys may not wear any visible jewellery.
1st to 5th Year girls may not wear any visible jewellery other than one pair of small sleeper ear-rings or studs worn in the lobe of the ears.
Uniform
6. Boys’ Trousers: Trousers should be black or dark-grey, formal and hold a crease. Jeans are not acceptable, nor are designs which are exceptionally skinny, baggy, worn very low on the hips, or in any way fashion items.
7. Girls’ Kilts: The school kilt should be worn just above the knee and not shorter then 3 inches (7cm) above the knee. The kilt should never be rolled up.
8. Boys’ and Girls’ Socks or Tights: Socks or tights must be worn at all times. Girls wearing short white socks in the summer term must ensure they are visible above the shoe.
9. Boys’ and Girls’ Shirts: Shirts must be tucked in, buttoned at the neck and the tie tied properly . Coloured or other visible t-shirts may not be worn under shirts. The girls’ regulation fitted blouse may be worn over the kilt.
10. Boys’ and Girls’ Blazers: Blazers must be worn to and from school, and during the working day. During lessons staff may allow students to remove blazers while they are being taught, but they must put them on again to move about the school between lessons.
School Uniform and Appearance Rules for 1st to 5th Years
Personal appearance is extremely important, especially when representing a school; it sends out a message to others about how we care for ourselves.
School Uniform Suppliers
Truro School Uniform shop will be open when boarders arrive but to save time, we suggest placing an order online so students only have to change items that do not fit. For those in the UK, appointments can be made at the shop throughout August. You can order online at
https://store.famousbranches.com/truro-school.
Please note that all clothing, including footwear, must be clearly labelled with name tapes showing your child’s full name.
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The Sixth Form is a transitional phase in your education. You will become more independent in many areas of your lives; your organisation, your thought and your expression, both in and out of the academic spheres, and in how you present yourself. As such we allow a dress code which gives you the scope for self expression within defined parameters.
Sixth Form students will dress formally, in a smart and professional manner. The Sixth Form set the standard for the rest of the school and for this reason variations that detract from this will not be acceptable.
The following outlines what is acceptable within the Sixth Form:
Male students should be clean shaven at all times.
Male students should wear a jacket with trousers and female students a jacket with trousers, a business dress or skirt.
For both males and females, jackets must be well tailored and trousers must hold a crease. Skirts should reach the knee.
Male students should wear a shirt and tie and female students should wear a blouse or shirt with a collar that complements their other items.
Jackets should be worn at all times around school, unless specific permission has been granted. Students may wear plain v-necked jumpers in conjunction with their shirts or blouses.
Shoes and boots should be of a formal nature and made of leather or faux-leather. They should be complementary to the rest of the dress code and be appropriate for the terrain of the school campus.
Female students may wear a pair of earrings which should be modest in their nature.
The following are not acceptable (please note that this list is not exhaustive):
Denim clothing of any form, riveted trousers and mini skirts.
Bare shoulders, cleavage and midriffs must not be visible.
Jumpers may not be worn as a substitute for a jacket.
Trainers, flip flops and slouch boots.
Other than earrings for female students, any further form of visible body-piercing and tattoos are not permitted for males and females.
The final arbiters of what is and what is not acceptable are the Co-Heads of Sixth Form, the Deputy Heads and the Headmaster.
Games Kit in the Sixth Form
P.E. and games are optional in the Sixth Form, but those taking part must wear recognised sports kit appropriate to the activity – see kit specified for 1st to 5th Years. All games clothing must be clearly labelled with the student’s name.
From time to time the Games’ department will offer specific squad training kits for boys and girls and will send these out separately.
Sixth Form Dress Code
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School Life
Arrangements for Sixth Form Study Periods:
All Lower Sixth students must be present in school between 8.45am and 3.45pm and must attend all registration periods, lessons and other commitments. All Sixth Form students may leave the school site between 12.30pm and 2.25pm, providing they have no lessons or commitments. If doing so, students must sign out with Ms Shaw in the Sixth Form Office.
On Wednesday afternoons Sixth Form students may be required to attend a sports fixture or practice, participate in other activities or attend a subject clinic. Students may also be required to stay in school if they are behind with their work; if they are required to do so, they will be notified in advance by one of the Co-Heads of Sixth Form. If they have no commitments on a Wednesday afternoon, all Sixth Form students are free to return to the boarding house.
Absence from School
If weekly boarders are unable to return to school on Monday morning due to illness, parents should contact the Housemaster/mistress who will advise the School Office.
Permission for absence for extra holidays and other similar occasions can only come from the Deputy Head, Mrs Emma Ellison ([email protected]). This includes returning late at the beginning of term or leaving early at the end. We ask that absence should be kept to an absolute minimum. The school terms are intensive; absence leads to problems of missed work and can have an unsettling effect on the students remaining behind.
If students know in advance that they are going to be absent from school, they must tell the teachers of the lessons they will miss, as a matter of courtesy as well as information.
Driving and Parking
Sixth Form students may drive to school providing they have applied for a parking permit and agree to abide by the conditions of issue. Please note that cars must not be used during the school day unless specific permission has been given to do so from a member of the Sixth Form Pastoral Team, Housemaster/mistress or a Deputy Head. Passengers may not be carried except with the written permission of their parents. Failure to abide by the conditions of issue will result in parking permits being revoked, either temporarily or permanently.
Parking in the boarding house car parks is not available to Sixth Form boarders who must use the designated Sixth Form parking on site.
Competition Houses
All students belong to one of four competition houses - Smith, School, Vinter and Wickett. Usually there is one house meeting a term, and there are a number of competitions at each year group level and a points system leading to the award of the Opie Shield to the winning house for the year.
Heads of Competition Houses School House (Green): Mr D Meads
Meetings: Dining Hall
Smith House (Blue): Mr A Pomery
Meetings: Old Sports Hall
Vinter House (Gold): Miss B Holroyd
Meetings: Sir Ben Ainslie Sports Centre
Wickett House (Red): Mrs S Mulready
Meetings: Chapel
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Computers and IT
There are numerous IT suites all working from a central server. The base generic software is Microsoft Office; to complement this there are many other programs like Adobe Photoshop and including bespoke software written in-house to cater for the specific requirements of different departments.
All students in the 1st Year receive training in the basic software, concentrating on the use of word processors, spreadsheets, presentation, databases and desk-top publishing packages. By the end of the first three years students are expected to be competent autonomous users of computer technology as it is anticipated that they will require these skills for their GCSE studies and beyond.
To become a registered network user all students will accept a Network User’s Agreement when logging on to the network (a copy of which is below). Students should be aware that this is a serious agreement, and that the Internet is closely monitored at all times (including the evenings when the boarding houses have access to the network). The boarders will be given their login codes during their induction programme at the start of term.
Students should note that the computer rooms are a place to study and learn, therefore
no games are to be played at any time
there should be no use of the email facilities during lesson time
downloads are prohibited.
Any student, whatever their age, who refuses to comply with these rules and the terms of the Network User Agreement will forfeit the right to use the School Network. Furthermore, the school will not tolerate any inappropriate use of information and communication technology. All students are made aware of current issues through the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre’s ‘Think u Know’ training, which is delivered by the Head of ICT and the Child Protection Officer every year. Our Internet provider, the South West Grid for Learning, operates a policy of filtering to protect students in their use of the Internet; as a consequence social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook are not available to day students. The school operates a firm and unequivocal anti-cyberbullying policy and clearly expects everyone in the school community to use ICT responsibly.
The school computer rooms will usually be available from 8.00am to 8.45am for general use, at lunch times and after school until 5.00pm.
Although Malvern and Pentreve have their own computer suites and Trennick has easy access to the library computers, most students bring their own laptops. The computer suites and Library are linked to all the other school computers on the Intranet but if students have a laptop they should also remember to bring a memory stick or USB to transport their work. All boarding houses have Wi-Fi and we know how important it is for boarders to keep in contact with friends and family, so the boarders are able to access social networking sites in the evening after 6pm but not during Prep. SKYPE is also available.
Mobile Phones
1st
-5th
Years
1. Phones must not be used for any purpose (eg phoning, texting, checking of time, using as calculator, surfing the internet, taking photos, taking videos) between the hours of 8.45 am and 3.45 pm.
2. Phones must always be switched off (not on silent mode) and kept out of view.
3. Phones must not be taken into examinations.
4. In the case of trips, visits, exchanges and other off-site activities, their use is not allowed unless specifically permitted by the teacher in charge.
5. If a student breaches these rules the phone will be confiscated and given to the student’s Head of Year who will arrange a point and time for collection.
6. Emergencies - If a student needs to contact his/her parents/guardians they will be allowed to use their mobile phone, but must seek permission from a member of staff. If they do not have one, they may phone from the front office.
If parents need to contact children in a real emergency (not for such things as forgotten lunch boxes or pick up arrangements), they should phone the school office and a message will be relayed as quickly as possible.
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School Network and Internet Acceptable User Policy
The School Network: a collection of interconnected computers around the school campus, allowing common access to files and programs around the campus.
The Internet: a collection of interconnected computer networks around the world, which expands classroom and library media resources by providing fast access to information and images that may previously have been impossible to reach.
Both of these resources can assist individual and group projects, collaboration, curriculum materials and idea sharing. Internet access also makes possible contacts with people all over the world, bringing into the school experts in every subject area and students and adults from other nations and cultures.
For the remainder of this document where either the Network or Internet is mentioned each will be understood to include the other.
Please note that misuse of mobile phones, laptops and any other devices, will lead to their confiscation. For example, using them after lights out or during prep times.
With Internet access come responsibilities.
Appropriate access is the shared responsibility of the School the parents/guardians and the student. Truro School will provide access to and encourage a thoughtful use of information, teaching and learning resources accessible on the Internet and will provide guidance and instruction in the appropriate use of such materials. Parents and guardians are responsible for agreements their children make and the actions they take. Students are responsible for good behaviour on the Internet.
A student given Internet access will agree to:
obtain and maintain the appropriate training required to use Internet services efficiently and effectively, therefore avoiding needless disruptions of the service, or making demands on others to be assisting all the time.
use Internet services with an academic goal or purpose. This does not exclude exploration activities with a learning objective, but does exclude any or all activities that cannot be academically justified. Using the Internet to access or download computer games is not permitted, in fact games are only allowed on the Network at specified times. Email facilities are not to be used during lesson time. No file downloads will be allowed from 9.00am - 4.00pm.
honour the rights of others by not using the services for extended periods of time or for lengthy tasks that should be carefully scheduled; and printing out sparingly only the minimum required for further research.
A student given Internet/Network access agrees not to be party to:
accessing, uploading, downloading, transmitting or displaying or distributing obscene or sexually explicit material transmitting obscene, abusive or sexually explicit language.
damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks; vandalising, damaging or disabling the property of another person or organisation.
debilitating or disabling computers, systems or networks through the intentional misuse/overuse of electronic distribution or storage space, or the spreading of computer "viruses'1 through the inappropriate use of files or disks.
violating copyright, or otherwise using another person's intellectual property without his or her prior approval or proper citation.
using another person's passwords, trespassing in another person's folders, work or files.
Communication on networked information resources is often public. People receiving messages have the ability to redistribute them for many others to read. It is very important that students understand the importance of appropriate and polite behaviour and of avoiding the sharing, transmission or distribution of personal information that you would not want any stranger to have - such as, but not limited to, addresses, telephone numbers and any bank or credit card details.
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Boarders must understand that they are placed in a particular position of trust which they should respect at all times. Specifically, they are allowed access to social networking sites in the evenings, but they should take care to protect their profiles and to ensure that they follow the advice given during Internet Safety training sessions (summarised above). They should not upload images of others without their consent and they should be aware that all digital communication leaves a permanent ‘digital footprint’; if at any stage they bring the school, or any member of the community, into disrepute they will be disciplined accordingly - such behaviour will not be tolerated on the Truro School Network.
Students should ensure that their password is not given to or used by anyone else. If someone is found using your password then you will be responsible for any breach of this agreement carried out by the other student, and may lose Internet privileges as a result.
All Network users should endeavour to create an appropriate working environment; high levels of noise will not be tolerated.
Prep (Homework)
1st
to 5th
Years
This is considered to be an important part of the term-time routine and the boarding house offers every student the opportunity to establish a good routine. All students are required to make a note of homework set in their planner. Filling in the Planner on a daily basis is also good practice in self-organisation for all students. It does vary in quantity, though, and does not always involve writing. The boarders’ will use either the library or their boarding house to complete their homework. The following is a rough guideline:
1st and 2nd Year Homework: each homework should be 20 minutes long. There is a maximum of three subjects per night; 3rd Year Homework: each homework is now a little longer at 30 minutes long. There is a maximum of three per night; 4th and 5th Year Homework: each homework should be 30 minutes long. There is an average of four subjects per night.
The Boarding Staff are there to help with academic queries, as well as pastoral issues, and they act as the link between teachers and parents. If parents have any queries or concerns, they should always contact the House Staff in the first instance or, in a more serious situation, the Deputy Heads (Pastoral or Academic).
Prep Rules
Prep must be done quietly.
All students are to work at their desks in their rooms, or in the House computer room, or in the Library when supervised.
During prep time Music should only be played through headphones when permission has been given.
There should be no eating and drinking during prep time.
It is expected that students use some of their free time during the weekend to do additional study.
Musical instrument practice can occur by arrangement with the member of staff on duty.
Academic Study in the Sixth Form
Working habits within the Sixth Form will be much more flexible than those at GCSE: you are no longer in a timetabled lesson for every period of the school day and have options as to what you do in your non-contact time. Central to success will be your organisational and time management skills and effective use should be made of the planner to achieve this.
All subjects will provide information on the content of their courses and will provide you with an overview of how the course progresses. As such, you are in a position to read ahead and prepare for future lessons if they haven’t been set specific tasks to do in their own time.
Students who fall behind in their work will be dealt with initially by the relevant departments. Where students fall behind in a number of their subjects, or fail to show an improvement over sufficient time, timetabled Supervised Private Study periods will be allocated, requiring students to study in the Library, as well as attending Wednesday afternoon clinics. In such instances, parents will be contacted by your form tutor or your housemaster/mistress in order to discuss support strategies.
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Meals Our catering staff provide a 3 week menu so our students know what to expect in advance. The menus can be found on our website at: www.truroschool.com/schoollife/catering
Breakfast and Supper are eaten in the school dining hall but it is much more relaxed than the school lunch time. Boarders can sit where they want and with whoever they want, staff and their families will be dining with them and it is a very social occasion.
At lunch time boarders have the same options as all the day students:
Hot or Cold Buffet (all years)
Pasta and Jacket Potato Bar (all years)
Grab-n-Go picnic lunch (all years)
Sixth Form Cafe (Sixth Form only)
Sample Menu
Tomato & Vegetable Soup
* * *
Breast of Chicken
Tuna Pasta Bake
Cheese & Red Onion Tartlet
* * *
Cauliflower, Cabbage
and Sauté New Potatoes
* * *
Apple Crumble with Custard
Various Cold Desserts
* * *
Jacket Potatoes and Salad with:
Baked Beans and Cheese
* * *
Pasta and Salad:
Carbonara Sauce
Sweet & Sour Quorn Sauce
* * *
Selection of Sandwiches/Salad boxes and desserts
Snacks are brought to the boarding houses from the kitchens for a late evening supper such as fruit, crisps, cakes, bread and hot chocolate. All boarders have access to a microwave and can bring in their own purchased snacks.
Sixth Form students are issued with an electronic meal pass; this should be shown at lunch time in the Dining Hall or at the Sixth form Café (as appropriate).
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Other Useful Information
Lost Property
There is a Lost Property system in the school, and full details will be given at the beginning of term. The Lost Property Room is open at lunchtime every day.
Musical Opportunities
Wednesday Afternoon Activities
Complaints Procedure
Truro School has long prided itself on the quality of the teaching and pastoral care provided to its students. However, if parents do have a complaint, they can expect it to be treated by the school with care and in accordance with this procedure. Truro School makes its complaints procedure available to all parents of students and of prospective students on the school’s website, the school’s intranet and in the school office during the school day, and Truro School will ensure that parents of students and of prospective students who request it are made aware that this document is published or available and the form in which it is published or available.
In accordance with paragraph 25(3)(g) of Schedule 1 to the Education (Independent School Standards) (England) Regulations 2010, Truro School will make available to parents of students and of prospective students and provide, on request, to the Chief Inspector, the Secretary of State or the ISI for the purposes of section 162A(1) of the Education Act 2002 (as subsequently amended), details of the complaints procedure and the number of complaints registered under the formal procedure during the preceding school year.
Music, along the lines of the National Curriculum, is taught to 1st, 2nd and 3rd Year students and is an option for GCSE and A level. In addition to this Truro School offers the opportunity for students to participate in a full Symphony Orchestra, String Orchestra, Wind Orchestra, Jazz Orchestra, Junior Choir, Senior Choir and various Ensembles such as Brass Ensemble, String Quartets, a Samba Band, Trios and various Woodwind Groups. During the school year many of these groups perform in public. In addition, individual tuition is available to all students in the complete range of orchestral instruments as well as piano, organ, guitar and voice. Please complete and return the enclosed form to the Music Administrator at the school address or [email protected].
All those below the Sixth Form have to take part in this scheme. At the beginning of each term each student completes a form indicating preferences from a mixed range of activities. Those required for a school team will have to attend the practices and matches, which happen on Wednes-day afternoons, as well as after school.
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Tutor System
In addition to being in the care of a Housemaster or Housemistress, every student is in a Form, and the Form Tutor is an important person with whom students will have daily contact. He or she will be responsible for registering students every day, and is there to help, guide and monitor students in conjunction with House Staff as they progress in the School. In addition School Prefects are attached to forms and to year groups, and we encourage them to take a pastoral as well as an administrative role.
Deputy Head, Dr Shaun Pope ([email protected])
Deputy Head, Mrs Emma Ellison ([email protected])
Co-Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Lucy Jupp ([email protected])
Co-Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Jane Rainbow ([email protected])
The Head of Years are:
Mr Glynn Hooper ([email protected])
Mr Roger Picton ([email protected])
Miss Johanna Egar ([email protected])
Miss Melissa MacLeod ([email protected])
Mrs Catherine McCabe ([email protected])
If parents are concerned about any aspect of progress in school the first point of contact should be with the Housemaster/mistress. We encourage parents to get in touch with us if they have any concerns.
Worries and Problems
In the Student Handbook there will be a page of guidance about what students can do if they ever become very anxious or upset about anything at school. Its purpose is to ensure that every student has a clearly set out plan of action to follow when a problem arises. If you want to talk to the school about such problems, please contact the Housemaster/mistress in the first instance. Boarders have easy access to the Chaplain, counsellor and an independent listener.
Chaplain and Assemblies
The Chaplain, Rev Aubin de Gruchy, (pictured) will always be available to students. His office is in the main building opposite the computer rooms. He can be contacted on his email [email protected] or by calling 01872 246058.
A team of staff, led by the Chaplain, take assemblies each week. In addition, the World Aims team also lead assemblies on related subjects e.g. Fairtrade, the Environment, Amnesty International etc.
The Residential Curriculum (See also Appendix B)
At Truro School we pride ourselves on the holistic approach to education, developing the whole person.
Within the boarding community the staff feel very passionately that we can help the school in this
mission and over the last two years we have begun to implement a ’Residential Curriculum’ designed to
do so. As part of this curriculum the boarding staff together with appropriate support staff and/or other
teaching staff deliver ‘life skills’ sessions to the boarders each week. These sessions tackle a multitude
of topic areas that include, but by no means exclusively, staying safe, personal hygiene, cultural
awareness and staying healthy. Each term the boarders organise and participate in a charity event,
raising money or giving time and assistance within the community. Recent charity events have include
beach cleans, supermarket bag packs, music concerts and the annual Rainbow Run for Children’s
Hospice South West. Throughout the year the boarders will also participate in a First Aid Course run by
St John’s Ambulance and a leadership/team building day with Footsteps of Discovery in nearby
Trenowth Woods. The different cultures that make up the diverse boarding community are celebrated
throughout the year. Celebrating living in Cornwall and what it means to be Cornish is also incorporated
with trips to the local museum and cathedral organised.
Pastoral Care
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Medical Centre
The school has a modern, well-equipped Medical Centre run by Nurse Trevail and Nurse Armstrong who are both Registered Nurses with experience in Child Health. The Medical Centre is on call 24 hours a day and is visited weekly by a local Doctor. Following the completion of the medical questionnaire; total medical care is provided by our medical team. The nurse in the Medical Centre oversees all medical issues. Boarding Staff may issue Paracetamol or other simple remedies for minor ailments if necessary.
The nurse on duty will let the Housemaster/mistress know if a student is admitted to the Medical Centre or receives Medical attention (apart from minor matters). Sixth Form students are allowed to keep certain medication in their possession, in a secure locked container; the Housemaster/mistress must be informed of this.
The school has a counsellor which boarders can access, if school feels that there is a need, without parental consent, as long as deemed to be “Gillick competent”. The school will fund a maximum of six sessions.
All our new students have the opportunity to undertake a simple health screen during their first few months at school. This gives the student a chance to meet the medical staff and to check that they are in good health. Health screening includes a check of height, weight, sight, urine and blood pressure. During this check there is an opportunity to talk through any medical issues that may be of concern e.g. asthma, as well as discussing any medication that may be required in school on a regular basis.
There is a clear school rule regarding medication. Any medication being taken on a regular basis must be discussed with the school nurse and be left in the medical centre during school time. It can then be taken down to the boarding house at the end of the day. Students should not be carrying medication with them at school for the safety of the whole school community.
From time to time your child’s health may change. Please advise the Medical Centre of any changes which could be relevant to your child’s health in school and we will endeavour to provide support. You may contact the Medical Centre on the direct telephone number: 01872 246020 or by email: [email protected].
Nurse Armstrong
Nurse Trevail
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Administration and Financial Matters
Fees
Please note that fees are payable in advance by Direct Debit (for parents with UK bank accounts) and by bank transfer (other parents overseas). Fees should be paid by the first day of term.
Please note that you are required to give a full term’s notice of the withdrawal of a student or change of status (e.g.. Boarding to day).
If you have a query about any fee statement, please contact Karen Hocking in the Finance Office on 01872 246016 or [email protected]
Students’ Possessions and Pocket Money
In the Junior Boarding houses, pocket money should be handed in and then withdrawn at the regular house admin times. In the Senior Boarding Houses, students are expected to look after their money themselves. Many students bring valuable items with them, such as iPods and cameras, so parents are advised to take out small claims insurance to cover accidental damage or loss as these are not covered under the school insurance (see below). Please make sure all such items are clearly named - individuals are responsible for their care and maintenance. Each child will be given their own lockable space where valuables can be kept.
In an emergency boarders may take a cash advance from the Finance Office. However, there will be a 5% charge on cash above the sum of £20 being taken out by boarders.
We cannot over-emphasise the importance of having items of clothing and all possessions clearly named. Valuable items such as musical instruments should be marked indelibly.
Mobile phones need to have a security code and should be marked with the student’s name.
Insurance
All students are included automatically in a Student’s Personal Accident Insurance Scheme, the cost of which is incorporated into the basic school fees.
A range of other insurance policies designed for Students are available from various providers at additional charge. These include
Fee remissions, these are not given by the school even in the case of student sickness,
Students’ personal possessions which are not covered by the School’s insurance. Parents are strongly advised to make sure that they have adequate all-risks cover.
Private Healthcare Insurance
Dental insurance schemes
If you would like to take advantage of any of the options, please contact the Finance Office.
It must be stressed that no employee of the school is qualified to give financial advice, that in providing any such information the school is not in any way endorsing specific products, and that independent financial advice is recommended prior to committing to any such agreement.
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International Students
Being an international student can be very daunting, especially if it is the first time away from home. However, everyone in the boarding houses and throughout the school are here to help new boarders settle in and make this a great experience whether coming for the Sixth Form or starting lower down the school years. It is likely that an international student is speaking in their second language and Cornwall may be completely different to the area they call “home”.
One of the most important things is getting to the school on time so that everyone can be part of any Induction Days and the initial “getting to know each other” in the boarding house. Only English is allowed in the boarding house common rooms as speaking in another language can exclude others from conversations. It is usual for everyone in the same year group to have rooms in the same area so it is easier to get to know those in the year group.
Students should be prepared to embrace all the changes that come their way – the food, weather, humour, even the currency, are all going to be different.
Students holding Tier 4 Visas
Parents of students holding Tier 4 visas to enable them to study in the UK must ensure that the Boarding House Staff are provided with exact details of holiday arrangements in writing (by email): details of time, date and method of travel from the Boarding House, contact details during the holiday, if not staying with parents or nominated guardian, and all return details; this will include times of trains, flights and flight numbers, departure and arrival airports.
The continuation of Truro School’s Licence to sponsor international students is totally dependent upon the information we hold being correct at all times.
Guardianship
All pupils attending Truro School whose parents reside overseas must have a guardian living in the UK. This can be a friend of the family or an Agency nominated by the parents. They must accommodate the pupil during half-terms and holidays if they are not returning home or, in the case of an Agency, arrange appropriate care at these times. The form, supplied by the Admissions Department, must be completed by parents and guardian. If parents fail to provide a suitable guardian, the School reserves the right to employ the services of a Guardianship Agency who will appoint a guardian, the cost of which will be charged to the parents’ account.
EAL
Those for whom English is an additional language (EAL) are fully supported by our EAL specialist. To help establish their level of proficiency in English we use the Oxford Placement Test. If the test results indicate the need for support, we provide a single weekly lesson free of charge. However, if results indicate that more than one lesson is required, or if additional lessons are requested, a fee is payable for these.
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Social Weekend Arrangements
Weekly Boarders should leave the boarding house immediately after school on Friday and return to their room on Monday morning by 8.00am, signing in and out as appropriate. Weekly boarders are welcome to stay additional nights in the boarding house, under the usual flexi-boarding regulations and costs, by prior arrangement with the House Staff.
Full Boarders who spend the weekend out of the boarding house with friends, relatives or guardians, with prior authorisation, should return on Sunday evenings by 9.00pm.
It is essential that both parents and the school know precisely what is happening at weekends. All arrangements must be clearly in place by Thursday evening and contact between the school and parents is essential. The regulations stated later in this handbook must be adhered to. If you are staying in the Boarding House over the weekend, activities and excursions will be arranged.
All pupils will need parental permission before travelling with a friend by car.
Before any boarder is given permission by House Staff to attend a party or stay with anyone but his/her own relations during term-time, the following conditions must be fulfilled.
1. The BOARDER’S parents or legal guardians must give their permission directly to the House Staff in writing in advance. (It is accepted that the House Staff will use their own discretion about this point, particularly where parents are abroad).
2. In the case of a boarder being asked by someone to stay for a weekend, the ADULT RESPONSIBLE FOR HOSTING THE STAY must contact the House Staff beforehand to confirm that they are taking responsibility for the boarder concerned, and to confirm details such as timing, and transport arrangements. The host must also sign a duty of care form.
The phone numbers are:
Poltisco: Mr Lawrence 01872 246105
Trennick: Mr Copeland 01872 246033
Malvern and Pentreve: Mrs Mulready 01872 246030
3. In the case of a PARTY:
When a party is proposed that involves Boarders, the host must send the following details to the relevant House Staff at least a week in advance:
Names of Boarders who have been invited
Details of any transport arranged for the Boarders concerned
Names of supervisory adults
House Staff may want to contact the adults responsible for reassurance that the party will be properly supervised.
4. Boarders are normally not allowed to go to parties on mid-week evenings (except official school functions).
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Boarders’ Trips and Visits
Boarders’ trips will take place at weekends and occasionally during week day evenings. The trips are an opportunity for the boarding community to come together, to have fun, to learn something new and to give you the chance to see this wonderful county and all it has to offer. Generally the houses will arrange their own events, but some activities are done as a whole community. It is our commitment to ensure that all boarders have access to a fantastic range of trips and visits, which enriches your time as a Truro School boarder.
We encourage all boarders to make the most of this opportunity. Some events are weather dependent and take place in the term which is most appropriate. Others occur across all three terms. The list below gives an example of the types of events in which the boarders have participated. We hope you feel it covers most interests and tastes. However, we are always open to new suggestions.
Beach trips to Perranporth, Porthtowan, Fistral and Tol-carne, with the opportunity to relax, walk or surf (lying down or standing up!)
Golf at Holywell pitch and putt
Cinema trips to see the latest movies
Shopping at St Ives
Go-Karting at St Eval and Liskeard
Make-up evening
Ice Skating at the Eden Project
Dry slope skiing and Fondue evening at the Plymouth Ski Centre
Trips to see Plymouth Argyle play football
10-pin bowling
Enterprise Boat trips
Country or Coastal Path walks
Hall for Cornwall concerts
Combat Lazer (indoors and outdoors)
The Seal Sanctuary
Karaoke nights
Paintballing
National Trust properties
Barn Dance
House meals to various restaurants.
Boarders Camp to Hendra Tourist Park (3 day event)
The Royal Cornwall Show
BBQs
Movie and Pizza nights
Museums
Plymouth or Newquay Aquarium
Cycling on Camel Trail
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Co-Curricular Clubs and Activities
Every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evening there are “after-school clubs” which take place between 4-5pm. Every Wednesday afternoon all students are involved in a range of activities. This is optional for Sixth Formers but recommended as it helps students to get involved with the many different areas of school life. The list is extensive and there is sure to be something to suit everyone whether a student likes music, sport, drama or just finding something totally new and different to try.
Boarders can also participate in local clubs etc. provided they have permission from their parents and the boarding house staff.
As a boarder, you do not have to worry about catching your transport home after school or trying to fit in clubs with homework. There is an evening programme which is set out for boarders: After-School Club, relaxation time, supper, prep, relax! Remember, the wider the range of activities you try, the better, and don’t be afraid to try something new and different – not just what your friend is doing.
Friends of Truro School (FTS)
The purpose of FTS is to bring together parents and staff at the schools. It is run by a committee composed of parent representatives, the Headmaster and Head of Prep. Parents are automatically members of FTS.
FTS run a variety of fund-raising social events throughout the year, details of which will appear in the Friday Bulletin and on the school website.
Junior Discos
Junior Discos are organised about five times in the year and take place in the Gymnasium between 7.00 – 10.00 pm on a Friday.
Sixth Form Balls
There will be Sixth Form Balls at Christmas and in the Summer for members of the Sixth Form.
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Further Information for Parents Student Handbook and Planner
Every student will, on arrival, receive their copy of a student handbook, which serves as a directory of information including the school rules, as well as a work planner, with a weekly diary format. They must make a note of all preps set. House Staff of 1st to 5th Year students will ask to see this regularly and to sign it at the end of each week.
School Calendar
This is published at the beginning of every term giving all the main dates for the term's activities. The School Calendar is available online through our website www.truroschool.com. Last minute changes to events are updated online throughout the term, so please do check the calendar. It can be downloaded on your phone or iPad—instructions are available on our website.
Friday Bulletin
On Fridays we post on the school website the weekly bulletin and email a link to all parents – so it is important that we have your email address(es). If this changes, please send a simple message giving name of student to the school office: [email protected]
Find us on Facebook by clicking the f on our website or by searching ‘Truro School Community’ so that you are regularly updated about events and important messages.
We use twitter to update on calendar changes, announce student achievements and school events. Find us @TruroSchool.
We recently introduced a school Instagram account, which is regularly updated with photographs to give a snapshot of life at Truro School, covering events and pupil achievements. We can be followed @truroschoolcommunity
Terraces School Magazine
There is a School Magazine published annually, which is available as a printed copy and online. The magazine gives a snapshot of school life, covering achievements and events.
Parents’ Evenings
Parents are very welcome to attend Parents’ Evenings but it might be unlikely, especially in the case of foreign students, that parents will be able to do this. Parents may wish to be represented by a Guardian or, alternatively, House Staff will get all the information from teachers and pass it on by e-mail.
Policies
All school policies are available for inspection by parents on request: please email the Headmaster’s Secretary [email protected] with any request. In addition, some of the most important policies can be found on the school internet site:
http://www.truroschool.com/school/info/policies.asp
Further information and guidance about the routines of the school can be found in the Students’ Handbook and Planner or Sixth Form Students’ Handbook and Planner (issued to all students each September) and in the Friday Bulletin.
We do need to keep our information about you up to date: if any of your contact details change, such as email address, address and telephone numbers, including mobiles, please don’t forget to let us know. You can email your changes to [email protected].
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School Rules A full list of School Rules will be published in each student’s planner. However, parents should be aware of the following:
Student Code of Conduct for 1st
to 5th
Years
Ethos
Pupils are taught, encouraged and expected to develop and maintain a strong personal integrity that is truthful, generous, courteous and considerate of the needs and feelings of others.
They are expected to have a positive and purposeful attitude to their studies and school lives, and to their rela-tionships with staff and other pupils.
As a general rule, staff and pupils alike should treat each other as they would wish to be treated.
Observing Common Courtesies
Move around the school with dignity and respect for others.
Greet members of staff or visitors politely.
Open doors for adults and let them go through first.
Take your hands out of your pockets when speaking to members of staff or other adults.
Do not use offensive language, even if there is no teacher present.
Behave in a caring manner, especially to those younger than yourself
Allow teachers to teach and pupils to learn
Arrive on time for lessons, assemblies, meetings etc. with the correct books and equipment.
Line up quietly outside a classroom if the classroom is being used.
If a classroom is empty, enter, get books out and wait quietly for the lesson to begin.
Only enter science laboratories, D&T workshops or the Sports facilities if a member of staff is present.
Listen carefully to what is being said, by either your teacher or other pupils; never shout out in class.
If you wish to say something in class raise your hand and the teacher will ask for your contribution at an appro-priate time.
The end of the lesson will be determined by your teacher and you should leave the classroom in an orderly manner and in the condition you would wish to find it.
Do not bring items to school that are likely to cause distraction.
Move around school safely
Do not run in the corridors.
Wait patiently in queues.
Appearance
Observe the school policy on uniform and wear your uniform smartly.
Treat your environment with respect and ensure that all litter is deposited in bins.
Academic excellence and honesty
Record all homework (prep) in your Pupil Planner.
Complete all work on time and to a high standard; if a problem meeting a deadline is anticipated, the issue should be discussed with the teacher before the work is due.
Avoid copying or any other form of plagiarism as it subverts the assessment process, is a breach of academic integrity and undermines the standards and reputation of the school.
Travelling to and from school and when in town
While travelling in public places pay particular attention to your conduct and appearance and to the need to show courtesy and consideration to members of the public. Behaviour that may offend or intimidate members of the public or damage the reputation of the School is regarded as a serious breach of discipline.
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Sixth Form
Mobiles should be switched off in lessons and assemblies so as not to cause a disturbance. Sixth Form students may use their mobile phones during the day in the Sixth Form Café, in the Sixth Form Centre and in their vicinity; they should not be using them at other locations around the school campus.
Sixth Form Charter
As a member of the Sixth Form you are involved in a partnership between yourself and Truro School. In this partnership there will be expectations and responsibilities on both sides. This Charter indicates what you may expect from the School and what the School, in return, expects from you.
The School will:
Offer you an environment where you can reach your academic and personal potential
Offer opportunities for you to develop leadership skills
Offer guidance and advice in choosing your Advanced Level courses
Offer the best teaching within its available resources, to prepare you for Advanced Level and other examinations
Set Target Grades based on your prior performance and assess your progress towards them
Set and mark work on a regular basis and indicate how you may improve
Report to you and your parents your progress, and implement strategies aimed at improving your level of performance
Offer a programme of study that prepares you for life as a Sixth Form student and for life beyond the Sixth Form
Help you in your application for a place in Higher Education or employment
Offer advice and a help service after the publication of your Advanced Level results.
You are expected to:
Support fully the ethos of the School and show leadership to the rest of the School
Adhere to the School rules and regulations applicable to members of the Sixth Form
Commit the necessary time and effort to your Advanced Level studies to reach your potential
Attend punctually all time-tabled lessons, tutor periods, assemblies and other clubs, activities and societies required of you
Submit work on time and of an appropriate standard
Take a full part in the life of the School and use your talents to the full, both in class and in co-curricular activities, including representing the School and House in sport, music drama and other activities
Enjoy yourself, respond positively to the work and develop social skills which will equip you to meet successfully the challenges of life after leaving Truro School.
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Essential Information
Electrical Items
All Furniture is provided so please do not bring additional items unless this has been cleared beforehand.
Do not bring candles or incense. Students are welcome to bring a radio or an iPod but headphones are
recommended. Do not bring kettles, fridges, fan heaters etc.
Laptops
Students may bring their own laptop/personal computer as a lot of school work is completed using
computers and the internet. When students arrive they will need to take their laptop to the IT department
who will enable them to access the school wireless network. The network is closely monitored and so
any inappropriate sites are blocked. Boarders who wish to use Skype can do so through this network.
Insurance
Please remember that Truro School’s insurance does not cover any items of personal property.
Clothes and Laundry
All items of clothing must be clearly marked with name labels. Within the boarding houses and during
free time, non-school uniform is to be worn, which again must be clearly marked with name labels.
The housekeeper is in charge of laundry. Students will be allocated a laundry bag. All school shirts will
be ironed. Sixth From students will do their own laundry. Bedding is washed on a weekly basis; boarders
are expected to strip their beds ready for cleaning.
Fire
Fire evacuation practices routinely happen. Whenever the fire alarm sounds, students must assume that
there is a fire and the house must be evacuated from the nearest fire exit as quickly as possible in
silence.
Guests
Boarders may invite a friend or guest into their boarding house as long as they observe the following:
Permission must be asked by the on duty housemaster/mistress
Guests must be introduced to and signed in and out with the housemaster/mistress
Guests are only allowed in communal areas; strictly NOT IN BEDROOMS
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APPENDIX A Missing Pupils Policy and Procedures
Aims
The procedures to be followed if a pupil is missing are designed to:
protect the health and safety of all boarding and day pupils at the school;
ensure that all school staff know how to respond if a pupil goes missing.
The full Policy can be found on the school’s website but the extract below refers, specifically, to Boarders.
Extract begins…
Pupils missing from Boarding Houses
If a pupil is missing from the Boarding House outside School hours (8.45am – 3.45pm Monday to Friday), the member of staff on duty should:
check the signing-out book in the house;
check any paper work or emails which may have given the pupils permission to be out of the house;
conduct an initial search of the house and immediate surroundings;
ring other boarding houses for them to check their signing-in book and to search their house;
ring the Medical Centre during their working hours;
check other obvious and nearby locations;
If necessary, contact other available members of staff and prefects on site to conduct an initial search of the School site;
question friends of the pupil;
question friends and staff who have recently been in contact with the pupils about their emotional state;
try to contact the pupil using their mobile phone number.
If there is no discernible reason for absence, the staff on duty will:
immediately phone their Housemaster/mistress;
immediately phone the Headmaster or the Deputy Headmaster to inform that the boarder is missing.
Informing parents/guardians after one hour of searching
If after one hour of searching a pupil cannot be found, inform the Housemaster/mistress and Headmaster or Deputy Headmaster. The Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster or Housemaster/mistress will then inform the parents/guardians. The School will then work with the family to try to locate the pupil.
Informing the police after two hours of searching
If after two hours of searching the pupil has still not been found, the Headmaster or Deputy Head will inform the police and their missing person procedures will be followed. Parents/guardians and Housemaster/mistress will also be notified.
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Pupils missing during a return journey to the boarding house
For pupils returning to a boarding house after a holiday or a visit to parents/guardians or friends, the member of boarding staff on duty will
Attempt to contact the pupil by mobile phone;
Check with parents, guardians and friends regarding whereabouts or delays or changes to the journey;
If after one hour of searching the pupils has not been found, inform the Housemaster/mistress and Headmaster or Deputy Headmaster; the Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster or Housemaster/mistress will then inform the parents/guardians; The School will then work with the family to try to locate the pupil;
If after two hours of searching the pupil has still not been found, the Headmaster or Deputy Head will inform the police and their missing person procedures will be followed. Parents/guardians and Housemaster/mistress will also be notified.
Once a Pupil has been found
If the reason for absence is not deliberate intended, but due to some form of distress, sanctions will not apply.
When the pupil has been located, the pupil must see the Headmaster or Deputy Head as soon as possible.
The relevant Head of Year, tutor (and boarding Housemaster/mistress) must be kept informed.
Each case will be discussed on its merits, but should the absence be deliberate and without good reason there will be a Saturday morning detention with Headmaster or Deputy Headmaster.
In the case of a longer term deliberate and unauthorised absence, the pupil could be suspended, at the discretion of the Headmaster.
Emma Ellison, Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Updated September 2016
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Autumn Term
WB Session MOS
14-Sep Staying Safe in boarding (to include safety in the city/travel safety) CEM
14-Sep Complaints procedure in boarding CEM
21-Sep Enjoying and achieving in boarding (making the most) NSK (TF)
28-Sep Positive contributions in boarding (giving back) MAN
05-Oct Health and Safety (FIRE) PB
12-Oct Med. Centre Role & Living Independently in boarding (personal hygiene etc.) Medic
02-Nov School support systems for boarders - who to talk to (including Bullying) SEM
09-Nov Discrimination, equality and diversity in boarding (tolerance and respect) ERH
16-Nov Internet safety 1 ADL
23-Nov Financial Awareness in boarding HT
30-Nov Positive Relationships in boarding (FMG/CSE) AdG/CEM
07-Dec Staying Healthy (mentally and physically) in boarding MAN
Spring Term
WB Session MOS
01-Feb Financial Awareness in boarding HT
08-Feb Positive Relationships in boarding (FMG/CSE) AdG/CEM
22-Feb Staying Healthy (mentally and physically) in boarding MAN
29-Feb Organisation and time management in boarding ERH
07-Mar Cultural Awareness in boarding JKA
14-Mar Drink, Smoking and Drugs GDH
21-Mar Study Skills HT
Summer Term
WB Session MOS
18-Apr Stress Management/Mindfulness JW
25-Apr Careers Advice NSK
02-May Prevent CEM
Appendix B - Life Skills Programme (Sample)
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APPENDIX C
Campus Map
Car Park for arriving at Trennick
24 = Trennick House
1 = Main Front Door
Car Park for Pentreve and Malvern
16 = Malvern House
19 = Pentreve House 29 = Poltisco House
Car Park approached off Malpas Road
www.truroschool.com
Truro School, Trennick Lane, Truro, Cornwall TR1 1TH
01872 272763
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