claremont boarding handbook 2017 pages

Claremont

BOARDING HANDBOOK
2017-2018

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PYKE HOUSE CLYDE HOUSE
Upper Lake 258 Sedlescombe Road North
Battle St Leonards-on-Sea,
East Sussex East Sussex
TN33 0AN TN37 7JL

[email protected]
www.claremontschool.co.uk

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Claremont School Statement of Boarding
Principles and Practice

The boarding team at Claremont aims to deliver an educational experience of
the highest standard in facilities of quality and comfort. We seek to promote
a safe, healthy and inspirational environment to allow our students develop
independence and responsibility. Our boarding staff take great pride and care in
supporting students as they adjust to life away from home. Our guiding ethos is
the promotion of mutual respect between staff and students. It is a collaborative
spirit that pervades all elements of Claremont boarding and the school as a whole.
Our principle aim in boarding is:

‘T o create a supportive and nurturing
community, one that has a safe and
inclusive learning ethos, and to give the
encouragement and affirmation to enable
students to achieve their potential in all areas of
life: academically, creatively and personally.’

Claremont School founded in 1925
No of boarders: 60
No of students: 600

Director: Mr Mark Beaumont
Principal: Mr Giles Perrin

Preparatory School Headteacher: Mrs Abra Stoakley
Head of Pyke House: Mr Tony Tayson
Head of Clyde House: Mr Rak Patel

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Contents

Claremont School Statement of Boarding Principles 3
6-8
Boarding Staff
Pyke House 9
Clyde House 10 - 11
Senior Leadership Team 12 -21

Welcome to Boarding
Transfer to the Boarding House, Arrival, Checking In & Induction
Induction

Settling In

Your first day in the UK

Induction Schedule

Life as a Boarder
The Boarding Week
The Boarding Weekend
Accommodation
Prep and Study Time
Safety
Activities and Activity Schedule

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Contents

Building a Strong Boarding Community 22 - 25
Equal Opportunities
26 -35
Student Heads of Houses
36 - 37
The Claremont Boarding Charter 38
39


Policies and Expectations
Rules and Sanctions

Dress Regulations and School Uniform

Security of Students and the Building

Safeguarding
Welfare and Support
Out and About

Holiday and End of Term Arrangements

Important Information
Students
Parents
Complaints

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Boarding Staff - Pyke House

Tony Tayson Natalia Tayson Simon Cooper

Pyke Housemaster Assistant Housemistress Residential Tutor

Joanne Butlin Jermaine Fitz-Graham Michael Cook
Non-residential Tutor
Residential Tutor Non-residential Tutor

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Boarding Staff - Clyde House

Rak Patel Rebecca Hurton Krishna Rasalingham

Clyde Housemaster Assistant Housemistress Non-residential Tutor
- Residential

Julie Lawes Frances Exley Alicia Johnson

Matron Matron Matron

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Boarding Staff: Senior Leadership Team

Ed Dickie Giles Perrin Abra Stoakley

Senior School Deputy Head Senior School Headteacher Prep School Headteacher
Safeguarding Lead

Lucy Dunning

School Nurse

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Welcome to Boarding

Our boarding students come from all over the world, creating a rich and culturally
diverse community where friendships are made that will last for many years to
come. Boarding at Claremont provides students with an important opportunity
for personal growth as well as academic achievement within a caring environment
that students often describe as home.

Our experienced boarding team, Francoise Armstrong
overseen by the Housemaster and
assisted by a range of teaching staff Assistant Head, International
and non-teaching staff, monitors all
aspects of our boarders’ lives during
the school term: from ensuring
everyone follows a healthy diet,
to assisting with homework. Our
ultimate purpose is for all students
to be happy whilst achieving their
full potential. The close relationship
between the boarding house and
the day school allows boarders
to feel part of the Claremont
community from day one. Indeed,
our boarding house combines
the traditional values of a British
boarding school with the modern
and dynamic environment of
Claremont School.

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Settling In: Your first day in the UK

The start of the year begins with a comprehensive induction into the policies,
procedures and expectations at Claremont School.

Transfer to the boarding house:
Let us know when you are likely to arrive and how you will be travelling. If you would
like Claremont School to arrange transport to or from the airport on your
behalf, please email the details of your flight to:
[email protected]
We must receive this request at least two weeks prior to your child’s departure
date. The Claremont School Travel Office will book the transport and send you a
confirmation email. The charge for this service will be added to your school account.
Details of the driver and a contact mobile number will be sent to you 1-3 days prior to
travel.

Prior to Arrival:
• Bring your uniform with you or, even better, arrange to have it delivered directly
to the Boarding House so that it is ready for you as soon as you get here.
• Make sure you have returned your completed health forms to us in advance of
your arrival.

Arrival: Saturday 2 September
We would be grateful if new boarders could arrive at their Boarding House
between 9:00 and 11:00 on Saturday 2 September. Returning boarders will return on
the following day (Sunday 3 September).
After you have settled into your room, we will take you to have a look at the local area
and show you where the nearest shops, bank and post office are.
On Satuday afternoon, we will take a trip to our uniform shop, Simmonds, in the
neighbouring town of Tunbridge Wells. This means that if you need to change any
items of uniform or purchase any missing item, you will be able to do so then. This
ensures that you will be fully prepared to start school on Monday!
On Sunday we will have a social day when you will have the opportunity to meet your
new boarding family. After this, it will be time to get ready for school.

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Settling In: Induction Schedule

First day of school : Monday 4 September
During your first day at Claremont there will be an extensive induction session
organised by the Assistant Head, International with the School Prefect team to help
you find your way around the building and understand the basic workings of the
school. You will also meet your Form Tutor who will give you your timetable and
will guide you through your first few days. Don’t worry, if you do not remember
everything at once, help is always at hand!

Saturday 2nd September Sunday 3rd September

Arrival day Existing boarders return from holiday
Introduction to local area (shops, Social events organised at
the Boarding House
pharmacies, bank, post office) Trip to Hastings

Trip to local museum Preparation for school week

Trip to Tunbridge Wells to purchase any
missing uniform items

Administrative induction:
Our boarding staff will fully support and guide you through all adminstrative
processes you need to complete to fulfill any visa obligations, bank registrations,
registering with the local police, medical and dental services’.

Our health team will register you with local medical and dental services. Additionally,
our Claremont School Nurse makes regular visits to the Boarding House and is
available for advice.

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Life as a Boarder: The Boarding Week
Life is busy as a boarder! Up at 7am, leaving for school after a hearty breakfast and
not returing to the boarding house before 6pm in the evening. Then it is study time
under the boarding staff’s careful eye. Maybe it is your day to wash your clothes?
Still, there is always time to have fun with your friends and enjoy some quiet time
in your bedroom before the school day starts all over again. It is no surprise most
boarders prefer to enjoy a lazy morning at the weekend, before a fun-packed
afternoon.

07:00 Monday - Friday Routines
07:15
08:00 Wake Up
08:20 - 15:00 Breakfast
15:00 - 17:00 Leave for School
09:00 - 16:30 Academic Lessons (Senior School)
16:30 - 17:50 Co-curricular Programme (Senior School)
18:00 Academic Lessons (Prep School)
18:00 - 18:30 Sports Clubs (Prep School)
18:30 - 19:15 Return to Boarding House
19:30 - 21:15 Free time. Boarders are allowed to go into town.
21:45 Supper
22:00 Prep/Study time/Friday evening activities
22:15 Year 9 and Year 10 bedtime (22:00 lights out)
22:30 Year 11 bedtime (22:15 lights out)
Year 12 bedtime (22:30 lights out)
Year 13 bedtime (22:45 lights out)

Clyde House provides boarding for those younger students who are in Year 7 or 8.
Students in these years have a dedicated common room and an individual tutor
who supervises them in the evenings and weekends. All Year 7 and 8 students are
expected to attend the Saturday activity programme and can visit local shops and
facilities under the supervision of a member of the boarding staff. Our dedicated
team of matrons provide a warm ‘home away from home’ atmosphere and staff

support students as they settle into boarding life.

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16:30 - 17:30 Year 7 & 8 End of Day Routine

17:45 Students do their homework under supervision of the CPS staff
18:00 - 18:30 in the Library at the Prep School
Return to Clyde House
18:30 - 20:15 Supper at Clyde House

20:15 Evening activities supervised by Junior tutor. This is also a time
20:30 when students can call their parents or guardians and catch up
21:00
on any further homework if they need to.
08:00 Evening snack/hot drink
11:00 - 12:00 Prepare for bed
Lights out
12:30
17:00 - 17:30 Saturday Routine
18:00 - 19:00
19:00 - 21:45 Wake Up
Brunch
22:00 Leave for organised activites/free time
22:15 Return from activities/free time
22:30 Supper
22:45 Evening activities/movie night
Year 9 and 10 bedtime (22:15 lights out)
08:00 Year 11 bedtime (22:30 lights out)
11:00 - 12:00 Year 12 bedtime (22:45 lights out)
12:15 - 14:15 Year 13 bedtime (23:00 lights out)
15:00 - 17:30
18:00 - 19:00 Sunday Routine

21:45 Wake Up
22:00 Brunch
22:15 Leave for organised activites/free time
Return from activities/free time
Supper
Year 9 and 10 bedtime (22:00 lights out)
Year 11 (22:15 lights out)
Year 12 bedtime (22:30 lights out)

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Life as a Boarder: Accommodation
Where will I sleep? Your room will be cleaned every
Male and female students’ week, but it is part of the boarding
bedrooms are located in separate experience to learn to take
sections of the boarding house, responsibility for your own room. A
each with a range of individual and new challenge for some! Boarding
shared bedrooms. Some of the staff will go into your bedroom
rooms have en-suite bathrooms. every day to check it is tidy and to
Your key fob and individual locker ensure that students are looking
key allow you to access your room after themselves, their bedroom
and your floor. Make sure you keep and to address any personal or
those safe as you will lose your £30 maintenance issues as they arise.
deposit if you misplace them. We want to make sure that your
In your room you will have a room is a clean, healthy and safe
comfortable bed, a desk, a wardrobe environment.
and drawers as well as bed storage,
so you can unpack your suitcase When will I eat?
and make yourself at home. You The Boarding House has its
can personalise your room and own catering facilities and serves a
display photos and posters on the breakfast buffet (07:10-07:45) and
noticeboards provided. supper (18:30-19:15) Monday to
There is no need to bring a pillow, Friday. Lunch takes place in school.
duvet and bedding (pillow cases, At weekends we serve brunch
duvet cover and fitted bed sheet), between 11:00 and 12:00, and
these are all provided! Your bedding supper between 18:00 and 19:00.
will be laundered every week.
If, however, you decide to bring
your own bed linen, it is your
responsibility to wash it.
Also, your study desk has a lockable
cupboard where you can keep your
personal effects. Your passport and
cash should be kept in the office
safe.

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What if I fancy a snack? Is there internet access?
You will enjoy access to All rooms have free internet
a kitchen with a microwave and access, but it is limited at night time
toaster. There you will be able to to make sure you get a good night’s
prepare snacks and hot drinks in sleep. Those times are displayed on
between meal times. Milk, tea, noticeboards around the house. The
coffee and hot chocolate are always internet is filtered to stop restricted
available. We encourage you to web content.
follow a healthy diet and, with that
in mind, we do not allow energy Can I use my electrical devices?
drinks. We will first have to check
If now and again you wish to use that your items meet the UK
slow cookers or rice cookers, talk to safety requirements (PAT: Portable
the boarding team about using the Applicance Testing). If they are not
kitchen. You definitely cannot use safe to use, we will keep these for
those in your bedroom as this is a you until the end of term when
fire hazard. you can take them back home.
Also, remember to switch every
Where can I relax? electronic device off when you leave
There is a Common Room in your room. We want everyone to be
which you can socialise and watch safe here.
television. You are expected to
speak English in all common areas What if I break something?
so that everyone feels included. At Of course we do not expect
meal times we would like you to put any ball games or play fighting
aside all electrical devices so that indoors, but accidents happen.
you can have genuine conversations Just make sure you let the staff
with your friends instead. know straightaway. Never attempt
to change light bulbs or repair
electronic items by yourself. If the
damage is serious, some charge may
follow for repair or extra cleaning of
the affected areas.

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Life as a Boarder: Accommodation
Where can I keep my belongings What about clothes washing?
over the summer holidays? The Housekeeper washes
When you clear your room at the school bedding weekly but you
the end of the academic year, are responsible for washing your
summer storage of all your personal own clothes, any bedding brought
belongings can be arranged, subject from home and towels. The laundry
to a fee. Details are available from room is available on a rota basis.

the Boarding team. Can I have a pet?
Sadly not! No animals are
allowed in the boarding house.

Life as a Boarder: Prep and Study Time
Academic success figures highly on It also enables the academic staff
the list of priorities in the boarding at Claremont School to let us know
house. Year 9 and Year 10 boarders if additional support needs to be
study in the common room under put in place. Studying as a boarder
staff supervision. Senior students is an excellent way to become
tend to study in their bedrooms self-disciplined in your learning
unless the boarding team feel and we aim to give you the right
they need additional support. In environment in which to do so.
any case, staff are always close at
hand to offer guidance and advice. 16
Your homework diary is a valuable
communication document between
the school and the Boarding House
as it informs us about what work
needs to be completed.

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Life as a Boarder: Safety
Fire Drills and Alarms or faulty electrical appliances. Any
There will be a number of such items found in your room
fire drills throughout each term will be confiscated until the end of
and at least one will occur in the the term. All electronics should be
late evening. Whenever you hear turned off when you go to bed and
the alarm, you must evacuate the when you leave your room.
building immediately by following
the fire evacuation procedure, Safe-keeping of Possessions
which is pinned in your room and on You are advised not to store
all noticeboards. Failure to comply considerable amounts of cash,
with fire drills and alarms may result highly valuable jewellery, or
in disciplinary action, as the drills electronic items in your room. You
are conducted for your own safety have a responsibility to keep your
and designed to prepare you for any own possessions safe by locking
such emergencies. your room when you are not
present. Passports/travel documents
Fire Prevention and pocket money and must be
You must never cover smoke handed to the boarding staff to be
alarms or remove batteries from kept in the office safe.
them, nor must you tamper with
other safety equipment such as fire You must not enter the room of
extinguishers or fire blankets. This other students, remove items left
equipment has been installed for in the common areas or borrow
the safety of all students. Tampering property from other students
with them is a serious breach of without permission. These actions
Health and Safety rules and anyone may be classified as theft, even if
found doing so will be subjected to your intention was to return the
disciplinary action and possibly a property at a later stage. Where
monetary charge to cover the cost theft is reported, staff have the
of an engineer’s visit to replace or right to search the rooms of other
repair damaged items. boarders for missing possessions.
You must not have candles, smoke
on the premises, or use forbidden

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Life as a Boarder: Activities

Weekend and Evening Activities
Activities such as cinema trips, sports events, games evenings and visits
to museums/ local attractions will be available for you to participate in (students
of Compulsory School Age are expected to join in most organised activities).
Please accept that there may be a monetary charge for certain activities. Boarding
students are encouraged to set up clubs which others can join: please discuss any
ideas with the boarding team or the student Head of Houses. All activities are
designed to support you in getting to know other students and the development
of the English language used in social contexts. The monthly activity programme
will be displayed on the house noticeboards. Boarders are also encouraged to
participate in activities organised by the school.

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Life as a Boarder: Activity Schedule

Michaelmas Term 2017 Activity Schedule

Date Planned Activity

Saturday 9th September 2017 Go Kart

Saturday 16th September 2017 Laser Quest

Saturday 23rd September 2017 Archery

Saturday 30th September 2017 Golf Range

Saturday 7th October 2017 Cinema Trip

Saturday 14th October 2017 Go Ape

Saturday 4th November 2017 Paintballing

Saturday 11th November 2017 Trip to Brighton

Saturday 18th November 2017 Trip to Winter Wonderland

Saturday 25th November 2017 Bowling

Saturday 2nd December 2017 Cinema Trip

Saturday 9th December 2017 West End show

Please remember that the activity prices and schedule may vary due to
unforeseen circumstances. Activities scheduled for Lent and Summer terms will be

emailed in advance.

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Building a Strong Community: Equal
Opportunities

All members of the boarding community, without exception, should be treated
equally and with respect. Both the boarding houses encourage an appreciation
and awareness of the need to care for other people, including fellow students
and staff members. We all reject, unequivocally, any form of prejudice or denial
of equal opportunities on the grounds of disability gender, race, religion, belief or
sexual orientation. All students benefit equally from our provision.

What does Claremont have in place?

• An Equal Opportunities Policy, which makes no discrimination on the grounds of
disability, gender, race, religion/ belief or sexual orientation.

• The Boarding team is happy to provide details of the closest church, mosque,
synagogue, temple or alternative place of religious worship.

• Weekly PSHE/RE lessons throughout the academic year, which encourage
students to learn about other religions and cultures.

• A comprehensive Co-Curricular programme that promotes creativity, service and
action for all students.

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Building a Strong Community: Student Heads
of Houses

We seek to encourage student leadership across all areas of house life. Each
year, student Heads of Houses are appointed (male and female). Their position is
to advocate on behalf of the boarding community while also providing a bridge
between students and staff. Their responsibilities include:
• To meet regularly with the Housemaster to discuss matters relating to

boarding life.
• To assist boarding staff as required.
• To help boarders with any difficulties they may be experiencing.
• To take responsibility for organising and checking daily duty rotas set for

boarders.
• To set a good example that embodies the spirit of Claremont and maintains

behaviour and an attitude that a Claremont boarder should exhibit.

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Building a Strong Community: The Claremont
Boarding Charter

This charter was written and agreed by the founding staff and students of
Claremont’s first boarding house. It sets out the principles that guide life in
boarding:

Our boarding house is distinctive:

• It is our home during term time and our fellow co-boarders are our extended
family.

• It is small and friendly and everyone has his or her own personal space.
• The boarding house is new, and we are proud of the building heritage, equipment

and facilities.
• It is a place which is welcoming to new guests.
• It is a place where we can rest, work, relax and enjoy our life, free from bullying

and anti-social behaviour.

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What we believe in:

• Accepting instructions and rules. Actions, which do not
• Trusting each other. fit with our beliefs and
• Respecting each other and our attitudes in the boarding
house:
environment.
• Being positive and optimistic. • Being argumentative, disrespectful
• Being positive role models for each and hurting feelings of other
boarders and members of staff.
other.
• Having good manners and being • Not following rules and
instructions.
polite.
• Showing pride in our environment • Not caring or helping others.
• Not moving on from issues and
and ourselves.
• Putting others before ourselves. troubles.
• Using positive language. • Selfishness.
• Not making fun of others. • Not showing respect for the
• Not accepting bullying.
• Not showing anger but being environment.
• Blaming others for our own
confident to speak our minds.
• Supporting each other. mistakes.
• Being thoughtful and thinking

through the consequences of our
actions.
• Including everyone in all that we do
as a group.

Attitudes that lead from
our beliefs:

• Being a positive role model.
• Taking responsibility.
• Leadership and resilience.
• Being prepared to learn from our

mistakes.
• Being trustworthy and reliable

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Policies & Expectations: Technology

Technology is now a central part of our lives. Laptops, Tablets, Mobile Phones
and the realities of social media permeate every area of young people’s lives.
At Claremont we seek to strike a balance between promoting positive use of
technology while guarding against some of the dangers.
School policies on a range of technological issues are available on request
(Cyberbullying, ICT Acceptable Use, Internet, Mobile Phone, Photographic) from
staff.

Use of the internet is routinely monitored and students should be aware that the
following is prohibited:
• Download games, music, ringtones or films from the Internet.
• Use of the school broadband for malicious purposes, including, but not limited to:

illegal activity, hacking, bullying or any sort of abusive behaviour.
• Accessing unsuitable internet content.
If you violate these policies you can expect to be sanctioned depending on the
seriousness of the breech.

We recommend that KS4 students (Year 9-13) bring their own laptops as
schoolwork is submitted electronically and uses various educational online
resources. The Wi-Fi login is displayed throughout boarding house.

The school has a Data Protection Policy and comprehensive policies on internet
usage. You are required to comply with the policies. Security of school ICT
equipment and internet access is important and personal responsibility of
students and staff.

Mobile phones, iPods and Tablets etc, may only be used in the boarding house.
Students are not allowed to use personal electronic devices in lessons and during
prep. We have a wi-fi network in the boarding house that is switched off after
bedtime. We actively promote ‘screen free’ times during the day and at weekends.
Younger students (under 16) can expect to hand in their electronic devices prior to
bedtime to encourage good sleep hygiene.

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Policies & Expectations: Photography

It is important for all boarders to understand that the use of social media can lead
to difficulties. This is especially the case in relation to photography and students
need to be careful about how they use their smartphone cameras. To this end:

• At no time must a boarder take pictures of fellow students inappropriately
dressed.

• Students must not take pictures of staff and must not post any pictures of staff on
any social network, or shared with anyone without the relevant staff member’s
consent.

• Permission must be sought before any pictures of students or staff are posted on
social media.

• At all times the name of Claremont School must not be posted on any social
media sites or brought into disrepute.

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Policies & Expectations: Rules and Sanctions
As you would expect in any Sanctions
community or school, there are

times when sanctions are necessary Sanctions for minor, inappropriate

in order to remind students about behaviour:

what is acceptable behaviour. • Verbal reprimand.

Rules When the offence is more serious,
Boarders must treat further sanctions will be considered:
all members of the boarding • Apology letter to the boarding
community with respect.
We also expect our students to be team.
well behaved whilst in public and • Temporary loss of privileges.
must treat all members of the public • Gating-boarders are not allowed
with respect.
Any form of discrimination or off-site for a set period of time.
bullying is totally unacceptable • Confiscation of electronic
whether on the basis of disability,
religious belief, race, appearance, devices.
gender or sexual orientation. The
school will take all allegations of The most serious breaches of
bullying or discrimination very discipline will result in:
seriously and investigate thoroughly. • Fixed-term exclusion.
Appropriate action will always be • Permanent exclusion from the
taken.
Boarding House and School.

‘We treat all with respect, tolerance and appreciation. Housekeepers,
matrons, teaching staff and boarding staff are all worthy of appreciation
and gratitude. Rudeness is not acceptable at any time if we are building a

strong community’

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There are also some important rules which students need to be very clear about
from day one in boarding. These are in place to ensure the safety of all students in
the community.

Smoking
Following fire regulations and UK laws on smoking, smoking is forbidden
in all school/boarding premises. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes.
Students breaking this rule will be subject to school disciplinary action and may be
billed for any damage or safety checks that are undertaken as a consequence of
their smoking. Boarding staff have a duty of care to ensure that boarders are not
smoking or storing tobacco products in boarding premises. Any product of such
kind will be confiscated and disposed of, and reported to school.

‘Health, safety and security procedures must be adhered to at all
times.’

These procedures have been put in place to protect you and others in the building.
Any instructions or requests given by boarding staff regarding these matters must
also be followed. Disciplinary action will be taken if you fail to do so. Boarders
must not obstruct any fire exits and keep their rooms tidy to make sure they have
clear path in case of fire or other emergency evacuation of the building.

Alcohol & Drugs Policy
It is forbidden to store or use alcohol, illegal drugs and so-called legal highs
on boarding premises.
It is illegal in the UK for anyone under the age of 18 years to buy or consume
alcohol and tobacco products. Every boarder will be subject to disciplinary
procedures if found under the influence of alcohol. Older students will be subject
to disciplinary procedures if they are found to have provided alcohol for younger
students, drinking or storing alcohol in the boarding premises.
There are strict laws in the UK regarding illegal drugs. Any boarder found, or
believed, to be under the influence of any drug that hasn’t been prescribed by a
UK registered doctor (including so-called legal highs) will be subject to disciplinary
action, which may include expulsion and the police being notified.

Students should read the school’s policy on substance misuse.

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Policies & Expectations: Dress Regulations
and School Uniform

Personal appearance is really important as it sends out a message to others about
how we care for ourselves. It is important that you learn to dress appropriately
for each occasion. All students must adhere to the school’s dress code and are
expected to travel to school each day in full school uniform.

UNIFORM GUIDANCE for Boys and Girls in Years 9 to 11

• The Claremont blazer is to be worn at all times on the school site. Sleeves
should not be rolled up. It may be removed in class with a teacher’s permission.
• Winter coats, scarves, hats and gloves should not be worn in the school
building
• The Claremont jumper is optional.
• Jewellery is discouraged, but if worn should be simple, understated
(one small necklace, one small bracelet/wrist band) and not visible, i.e. worn
underneath school uniform.
• Hair should be of a natural colour and should not be ostentatious in style.
• Neither tattoos nor any other form of skin painting are permitted.
• Make-up is discouraged, but if worn it should be discreet and natural.
Students with heavy make-up will be required to remove it.
• No badges are to be worn other than school badges such as the football or
swimming academies’ badges.
• Claremont PE kit (or House t-shirt as appropriate) must be worn for all sport
activities. Girls may wear black or navy skins / leggings underneath their skorts.
• Plain black shoes of a conventional style. Boots, plimsoles or trainers are not
acceptable
• Sixth Form students are expected to dress in smart/business wear.

The full school uniform can be purchased from the following website:
www.simmonds-ltd.com/Schools/ClaremontSeniorSchool

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Policies & Expectations: Security of Students
and the Building

Students of Compulsory School Age or under 16:
Junior students will be fully supervised in the boarding accommodation.
You are a Compulsory School Age (CSA) student if you are under 16 years and have
not turned 16 years of age by the first day of the school year. If you arrive as CSA,
you remain a CSA student for the whole school year.

If you are a CSA boarder, the school has a legal responsibility to ensure the
following:
• You must participate in organised school activities at least once a week.
Claremont School encourages activities, as this improves students’ social and team
building skills.
• You live in fully supervised accommodation.
• All CSA boarders must go out in groups of two, if going out in Battle, and
group of three if travelling to Hastings. Anyone wishing to go further must be
escorted by parents/guardians, or under a supervision group agreed by boarding
staff.
• Whilst outside, all CSA students must phone the Boarding House every two
hours.
• The rules are in place for your safety, if you break these rules you will be
refused permission to go out for the following week.

Signing In and Out
Accurate records must be kept in case of a fire or other emergencies. A
logbook is kept in reception for this purpose and you must sign out whenever you
leave the building and sign in on your return. You must never sign in for somebody
else. All students must sign in and out clearly and accurately. Failure to sign in and
out may result in you losing some of your privileges.

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Staff Supervision Staff Accessing Rooms
There will always be at least one No male member of staff will
female and one male staff member enter the room of a female student,
on duty, 24 hours day, seven days unless they are accompanied by
a week. The duty rota will be another female member of staff
displayed each week on the house (and vice-versa to protect both
noticeboards and you will be given female and male students’ privacy).
contact numbers and emails on During an emergency, any member
arrival at the boarding house so that of staff may need to enter rooms.
you know who to contact. The school has a duty of care and on
occasion, for welfare or health and
Visitors safety reasons, it may be necessary
We welcome visitors (family, at times to conduct room searches.
friends etc) to the Boarding House, Students must always allow staff to
but it is important to remember a enter for this purpose. You will be
few key things if you plan to invite told of the intention to search and
someone to the Boarding House. there will be a second member of
We encourage all visits to be staff present to witness the search.
arranged for the weekend, due You will be presented with a written
to students’ Prep times during search form and asked to sign it on
the school week. All visitors must completion of the search. You keep
report to boarding staff in reception a copy, and another copy is kept in
and will be issued with a visitor’s the boarding office.
badge and will be required to sign
in and out as students’ visitors in Strangers
reception. Visitors are not allowed Residential staff and other
in students’ rooms. Visitors are school staff will always carry a
not allowed to stay overnight and school ID card. Any visitor to
must leave the Boarding House at the accommodation will be in
8.30pm. possession of a visitor’s badge.
If you see anyone in the building
Personal Relationships without this identification please
Personal relationships are not immediately report them to the
allowed on the boarding premises. boarding staff.
Students should be aware that this
could put your place at the school 33
at risk.

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EXEAT
Overnight Stays Away from Boarding House (aka EXEAT).
All students must inform the boarding team if they intend to be away overnight
or return late over the weekends by applying for an EXEAT. All students must
apply for an EXEAT (including 18 year olds). You must submit an application on the
form available in reception. The deadline for submission is 18:00 on Wednesday
and parental permission must reach the Housemaster by 18:30 on Thursday. You
will need to leave full details and contact numbers of where you will be staying
and have parental permission. You must ensure permission is granted by the
Housemaster before you depart from the Boarding House. Boarding staff can
still deny permission if you have been unwell during the week; we have concerns
about your safety; you are gated or in breach of any school/boarding rules; or if
you are behind with school or home work.

CSA boarders must be picked up by an appropriate adult aged 18+ authorised by
parents or guardians (but not a fellow student of the school), who will also need
to provide photographic ID (passport/driving licence). The Boarding team must be
notified in advance as to who will pick up the student.

Health Centres and Medications
As part of our induction process you will be registered with a local GP
(Doctor). The School Nurse’s availability will be displayed on the noticeboards.
Please notify the boarding team immediately if you become ill. The boarding staff
will arrange for you to see the Nurse, and she will be able to make an appointment
for you with the local GP if necessary. Any illness/allergy/food intolerance must be
declared on the medical form and returned to school prior to a student’s arrival.
On arrival any medication must be handed over to the boarding team and then
will be accessed by the School Nurse.

Accidents
In case of an accident or emergency, a member of the boarding team or the
Nurse will accompany you to Accident and Emergency at the nearest hospital.

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Safeguarding: Welfare and Support
Safeguarding and Child
Protection you are not the only person to
experience this: you do not have to

Your safety and protection are our face it alone and you will never be

highest priority and concern. All our judged.

staff members have been trained Independent Listener
in ensuring students are kept safe We also have an Independent
in school and the Boarding House.

If you feel unsafe or are worried, Listener for you to contact if

speak to any member of staff who you wish to talk to someone

will support you and help you by who doesn’t work at Claremont

identifying the right senior staff School. Their details are displayed

member who can help you with the throughout the school and boarding

issue. You will see posters around house. You can contact them by

school and the Boarding House email or phone.

with the picture, name and contact Independent Organisations
details of the school’s Designated There are also other
Safeguarding Lead. You may contact

them yourself at any time. organisations who can contact for

Designated Safeguarding Lead: Ed help. You can phone them for free

Dickie (ed.dickie@claremontschool. and speak to them anonymously.

co.uk) These include:

Assistant Designated Safeguarding Childline 0800 11 11; The

Lead: Mrs Wendy Barnett (wendy. Samaritans 08457 90 90 90; The

[email protected]) Children’s Commissioner for England

Anxiety, Stress or Homesickness 0800 528 0731
The entire boarding team,
Housemaster, the Nurse, Personal Financial Problems
We do not advise students
Tutor, Deputy Headteacher or to lend money to each other.

any other member of staff are Boarders can speak to the Boarding

all available for you to talk to if Team, Housemaster, or Deputy

you are feeling unhappy or facing Headteacher if they are facing

difficulties. Please remember, financial problems.

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Safeguarding: Out and About

Living Safely in England
When our students first think about studying abroad, one of the major
concerns when searching for school is about safety. Battle and St Leonards are
both very safe, historical towns. However, just like any other city there are things
to look out for. Stick together. Ever heard the expression safety in numbers? Well it
applies when you are out and about, too. Always walk in well-lit areas and always
walk in groups. If for any reason you feel nervous and threatened by the presence
of anyone you believe might be following you, walk into a nearby shop, restaurant,
coffee shop and ask for assistance.

‘Keep Valuables Out of Sight’

Just like any city, pick pocketing can be a problem wherever you are, as can phone
snatching. In order to keep your valuables safe, make sure that they remain out
of sight at all times. Try to keep valuables in inner pockets where thieves can’t
get to them. If you do have something valuable on you, try not to keep touching
it to check if it’s there: a thief with a keen eye will soon spot this behaviour and
recognise it as the tell-tale sign of where your valuables are.

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Holiday and End of Term Arrangements

The Boarding House is closed during half term, Christmas, Easter and summer
holidays. Please be advised you are not to depart or arrive any earlier than the
dates advertised. You must seek permission from school for any early departures
that will involve you missing lessons, by completing a Permission for Absence
Form, available at the school office. You must inform the boarding team about
your travel arrangements. All rooms must be tidy to allow our Housekeeper to
deep clean the bedrooms in your absence.

Please see travel dates below:

2017/2018 Boarders’ End of Term Arrangements

Holiday School Ends Students Students School Starts
Depart Arrive Mon 30 Nov
Michaelmas 2017 Mon 8 Jan
Half-Term Fri 20 Dec Fri 20 & Sat 21 Sun 29 Oct Mon 19 Feb
Dec Mon 16 Apr
Christmas Holidays Sun 7 Jan Mon 3 Jun
2017 Wed 13 Dec Wed 13 & Thurs
14 Dec Sun 7 Jan
Lent 2018
Half-Term Fri 9 Feb Fri 9 & Sat 10 Sun 15 Apr
Easter Holidays Feb
Sun 2 Jun
2018 Fri 23 Mar Fri 23 & Sat 24
Summer 2018 Mar

Half-Term Fri 25 May Fri 25 & Sat 26
May

Summer Term ends on Friday 6 July 2018
Students may depart after school on Friday 6th or Saturday 7 July 2018

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Important information

Students
Each room has high-speed broadband and good signal strength for mobiles to
allow students to remain in contact with families. In emergencies, boarding staff
may give permission to use the office or duty mobile.

Parents
Parents are welcome to contact the boarding team by email at:
[email protected], [email protected]
or by phoning the duty mobile. Email tends to be the best form of regular
communication with staff, but you are always free to get in touch using the contact
numbers above.

Complaints
The first step is to make a complaint to the boarding team or your Personal
Tutor. If you have a complaint regarding the Boarding House, you can always
speak to the Housemaster, or the Deputy Head Teacher, Mr Ed Dickie. You may
also contact the independent listener whose details are displayed in the boarding
house and school. If the complaint cannot be resolved satisfactorily then it
needs to be put in writing and addressed to the Principal in line with the school
complaints policy.

To enable students to voice their views, we also hold regular weekly meetings
every Tuesday at 7.15pm for half an hour. This meeting is designed for both
students and house staff to discuss any issues and the activities programme for
the weekend. The meetings are documented and minutes kept in the office.

CONTACT NUMBERS:

Preparatory School: 01424 751555
Senior School: 01580 830396
Pyke House: 01424 755332
Clyde House: TBC

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CLAREMONT CLAREMONT
PREPARATORY SCHOOL SENIOR SCHOOL
St Leonards-on-Sea Bodiam
East Sussex East Sussex
TN37 7PW TN32 5UJ
01424 751555 01580 830396

[email protected]
www.claremontschool.co.uk

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