hadden hall - Wrekin College

HADDEN HALL
PUPIL HANDBOOK
2016/2017
Contents
Welcome to Hadden Hall
Who is who in Hadden Hall
Duty Staff
Prefects
Other Important Staff
3
3
4
5
6
Boarding Routines
Weekday Routines
Evenings in Hadden Hall
Fridays
Weekend Routines
8
8
8
9
11
More things you need to know
Signing In and Out
Notices
Fire Alarms and Fire Drills
Visitors
Road Safety
Bounds
Security and Personal Safety
Safety of your Personal Property
Computers and Laptops
Mobile Phones and Mobile Phone Rules
Medical
Meals and Food
Dress
Bedsits and Dormitories
Bathrooms
Laundry
Radios, Televisions and Laptops
Films and TV Programmes
Cars
Exeats Weekends and other Holidays
Tidiness
Damage
Sanctions
Rewards
13 - 20
14
14
14
14
15
15
15
15
16
16
17
17
17
18
18
19
19
19
19
20
20
21
21
21
Bullying
Getting Help
Peer Support
Independent Listener
22
22
22
22
Communication
23
The School Rules
The School’s Mission Statement
Synopsis of General Care for Pupils at Wrekin
Boarding Mission Statement
25
26
27
27
2
Welcome To Hadden Hall
This Handbook is designed help you to settle into life as a boarder in Hadden Hall. You will also be
given a House Handbook for your Day House (Lancaster Girls’, Clarkson or Roslyn). In Hadden Hall
we make a positive attempt to provide girls with a comfortable, safe and caring environment best suited
to their academic, personal and social development.
Our aim is to realise the potential of every girl in our care and all the staff are dedicated to giving the
necessary support at any given time. But Wrekin is not just about creating an environment of support
from staff to pupils, it is also about nurturing respect between pupils and creating a structure that
promotes team spirit and builds lasting friendships. Our core values are:
care and kindness
respect and consideration
trust and honesty
tolerance and forgiveness
We encourage initiative, participation and individuality in all the girls, but expect that they acknowledge
that individual preferences must occasionally be sacrificed in order for the House to benefit as a whole.
Who’s Who In Hadden Hall
Mr David Winterton
Housemaster
I live with my family in a house attached to Hadden Hall. I am the person
who sets guidelines, and oversees the good running of the House and the
welfare of those within it.
Mrs Jo Winterton, Jessica and Hollie
My Family
As mentioned we live in the house attached to Hadden Hall.
Hollie and Jessica are twins and are in the Fourth Form. Jo is
a pediatric (children’s) nurse. Our door is always open.
Mrs Tracey Hodgkins
Matron
Tracey is often around in House if you have any problems. She looks after all
your laundry and any problems with your rooms. She is on duty every
weekday from 7.30am to 1pm and on Wednesdays from 4pm to 8.30pm. She
makes wonderful jewellery with felt and fabulous beads; join her on a
Saturday morning for her craft activity session.
House Ladies: we have a superb team of cleaning ladies in the House:
Angie (Top Floor), Fleur (Middle Floor) and Lynne (Ground Floor) – see
page 5
3
Duty Staff
We also have five other members of the teaching staff on evening duty during the week.
Mrs Caroline Ritchie-Morgan
Mrs Ritchie-Morgan is the resident Hadden Hall member of staff and
Assistant Housemistress of Lancaster Girls’ House. She is also Head
of Girls’ games and has a particular passion for netball!
Mr Jeremy Ballard
Mr Ballard teaches Biology and is fully involved in the Combined Cadets
Force and outdoor bounds programmes. He also enjoys coaching hockey.
Mrs Michelle Warner
Mrs Warner is the Assistant Housemistress of Clarkson House. She is
also Head of Physical Education and teaches Physics. She runs hockey
teams and coaches athletics in the summer.
Ms Grainne Whitehead
Ms Whitehead is the Assistant Housemistress of Roslyn House and she is
also Head of English and Drama. In addition, she runs various
school productions in the school theatre.
GAP Assistants
The GAP Assistants also help out on a Friday evening by providing various entertainment, including
games, cooking and quizzes.
4
Prefects
Phoebe Smith
Head of House
The Head of House and Prefects are ideal girls to talk to if you have
any problems or worries. They also carry out House duties in the evenings.
Angie, Jo, Fleur and Tracey
(left to right)
5
Other important staff (useful to know who they are)
Mr Tim Firth
Headmaster
Mr Firth’s office is in Main School, which is the big building by the
Dining Hall. Mr Firth takes Assembly every Monday morning. He lives
on site with his wife Jane and their daughter Lydia.
Mrs Stella Clarke
Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Mrs Clarke is in charge of pastoral care at Wrekin. If you have a
problem or need to talk to someone outside of Hadden Hall, she is the
person to go to. Her office is situated in the Quad on the ground floor
of the Tudor study block. She attends breakfast with the boarders most
mornings and lives on site. Mrs Clarke also teaches Geography.
Rev Michael Horton
School Chaplain
Rev Horton is the school’s Chaplain. He also teaches Religious Studies and Modern
Languages. He lives on site in a house on the corner of Prospect Road, near Bayley.
Mrs Maureen Crone
Housemistress of Roslyn Day House
Mrs Crone also teaches Mathematics. She lives opposite Hadden Hall in Roslyn House. Your Day
House is either Lancaster Girls (First and Second Forms) Roslyn or Clarkson (Third to Upper Sixth
Forms).
Mrs Kirsty Davies
Housemistress of Clarkson Day House
Mrs Davies also teaches Science. She lives in the big house attached to Clarkson. Your Day House is
either Lancaster Girls (First and Second Forms) Roslyn or Clarkson (Third to Upper Sixth Forms).
Mrs Janine Kotas
Housemistress of Lancaster Girls’ Day House
Mrs Kotas also teaches Modern Languages. She is also the wardrobe mistress and kits out the play casts
in amazing costumes.
6
Mrs Adele Wright
Deputy Head (Teaching and Learning)
Mrs Wright lives on site with her husband Adrian. If you have any problems with your studies, she is
available to help you. She also teaches Biology.
Dr Guy Roberts
Director of Planning
Dr Roberts is also Head of Computer Science.
7
Boarding Routines
The boarding routines for all girls are given below.
Weekday Boarding Routines
Mornings in Hadden Hall
Monday to Friday
•
Breakfast starts from 7.45am until 8.15am.
•
You must register with Mr Winterton or Matron in the Foyer between 7.45am and 8am before
leaving the House to register in your Day House.
•
Beds must be made, curtains opened and rooms left tidy.
•
If you are feeling unwell then you must still get up and visit the Medical Centre. In emergencies
Mrs Winterton will visit you in your room before 8am.
•
Matron will be in at 8am if you need to speak to her.
During the day
•
You remain in the care of your Day House (Lancaster, Clarkson or Roslyn).
•
You must take everything with you that you need for the day, for example books, PE/Games kit.
No one is allowed to return to Hadden Hall until:
•
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 5.30pm.
•
Wednesdays 4pm.
•
Fridays 4.30pm.
Evenings in Hadden Hall
Monday to Thursday
•
Tea starts at 6pm.
•
Registration for all girls is at 7pm in the Foyer of Hadden Hall. (House Meeting each week at
6.50pm).
•
Prep is between 7.10pm to 8.30pm.
•
The whole house MUST be quiet.
•
Girls above the Third Form work in their own rooms. Junior girls work in Lower Hadden.
•
All girls stay in House until 8.30pm (unless you are given special permission from Mr Winterton
or the member of staff on duty).
Prep
8
Evenings after Prep
Lancasters
When light can go out to play until 9pm
Tennis courts, Astro, grass
outside Hadden Hall
Third and Fourth
Formers
When light can go out to play until 9.30pm
Tennis courts, Astro, grass
outside Hadden Hall
Fifth Formers
Can go out until 9.45pm
Can visit Houses, gym or the
above
Sixth Form
Can go out until 10pm
Can visit Houses, the Sixth Form
Centre, gym or the above
•
First, Second, Third and Fourth Formers must ask the member of staff on duty for permission
first before going out.
•
All girls must sign out of House and back in again. The time and destination must be clearly
written. The signing in and out sheet is in the entrance hall.
•
No one is allowed off site.
•
When moving around the campus you must use the internal paths and designated crossing
points where possible.
•
All girls should move around the campus in pairs as a minimum after dark.
Beds
First and Second Forms
Rooms 9.15pm
Lights 9.30pm
Third Form
Rooms 9.45pm
Lights 10pm
Fourth and Fifth Forms
Rooms 10pm
Lights 10.15pm
Sixth Form
Rooms 10.30pm
ALL QUIET by 10.45pm
Fridays
•
Tea as normal starting at 6pm.
•
Registration for all girls at 7pm in the Foyer of Hadden Hall.
•
Girls may go out after House call.
•
Girls may sign out to visit other Houses, Sixth Form Centre and when light enough tennis
courts, Astro, grass outside Hadden Hall. As specified in the table ‘After Prep’ above.
•
No one is allowed off site without permission.
•
House call for all girls is at 9pm.
Bedtimes are half an hour later than during a weekday.
9
Weekend Boarding Routines
Saturdays
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Breakfast 9am to 9.30am.
All girls must be registered by 9am.
You must sign out of House when you leave Hadden Hall clearly stating the time and where you
are going.
Activities (compulsory for Fifth Form and lower years) start at 10am. The member of staff in
charge of your activity will register you.
If you wish to change your activity you MUST see Mrs Clarke by Friday lunch at the latest.
Lunch starts at 12.15pm for those not taking part in a Session 2 activity.
All pupils must register with Mr Winterton or the member of staff on duty in lunch.
School matches generally take place in the afternoon.
Afternoon registration may vary from week to week. The time and place will be posted in the
Foyer.
Visiting times are posted in each House.
School trips: please see separate notices ahead of time for any school trips happening on
Saturday afternoons. Signing up for weekend trips should be done by Thursday evening.
10
Town Permission
•
All year groups must ask for permission from Mr Winterton or the member of staff on duty if
they wish to visit Wellington.
For any other trips you must seek Mr Winterton’s permission first.
Saturday evenings
•
Tea starts at 6pm.
•
Registration for all girls is at 7pm in the Foyer of Hadden Hall.
•
Girls may sign out to visit other Houses, Sixth Form Centre and when light enough the tennis
courts, Astro, the grass outside Hadden Hall.
•
No one is allowed off site without permission.
•
House call for all girls is at 9pm.
After 9pm: Visiting Hours
Back in House as per week times on page 9.
Bedtimes are half an hour later than during a weekday (same as Friday nights).
11
Sundays in Hadden Hall
Either:
No Morning Chapel
Morning Chapel
Breakfast and Registration
In House up to 10.30am
9am
Morning Chapel
------------
10.30am
Lunch and Registration
12.15pm
12.15pm
Registration
4pm
4pm
Tea
6pm
6pm
Evening Chapel
6.30pm
------------
Registration
In Chapel at 6.30pm
6.45pm
Prep
7pm until 8pm
7pm until 8pm
Registration
9pm
9pm
Bedtimes
Same as Monday to Thursday
Same as Monday to Thursday
There is no visiting on Sunday evening.
Boarders’ Trips
•
•
There will be an organised trip out most Saturdays and Sundays.
You will have to sign up for these trips by Thursday evening.
Town Permission during the day
•
ALL girls must ask for permission from Mr Winterton or the member of staff on duty if they
wish to visit Wellington or go anywhere else.
Otherwise you must stay on the school campus.
It is possible for the senior girls to visit places in small groups if the plans are discussed well in advance
and agreed by Mr Winterton.
12
More things you need to know about boarding in Hadden Hall
Community
In Hadden Hall we encourage the girls to live as a community. This includes being kind to each other,
keeping the House tidy and sticking to bedtimes. We are keen that the girls form strong friendships and
this is encouraged at all times, ensuring girls complete activities in at least pairs, such as going to the gym
or to Wellington; girls also share rooms. Furthermore it is a rule that all girls should speak only English
in any communal areas such as common rooms, the Foyer and bathrooms; or when different
nationalities are together. When girls arrive they will be assigned to a ‘family’ which ensures they
integrate quickly, meet girls from different age groups and nationalities and when entering any form of
competition, this family provides a ready made team!
13
Signing In and Out
You must sign out of the House when you leave Hadden Hall, clearly stating the time and where you are
going and you must sign in when you return to the House. The signing in and out sheet is in the
entrance to Hadden Hall.
Notices
All emergency and daily notices are pinned up in the Foyer, so please read them all. There is also
information on who to speak to if you have any problems or worries (see page 22 and the Getting Help
notice in the Foyer).
Fire Alarms and Fire Drills
If the fire alarm sounds, day or night, you MUST leave the building immediately without taking any
belongings and go to the Assembly Point on the Memorial Pitch at the back of Hadden Hall.
Do not attempt to tackle the fire and do not return to the House until the member of staff on duty has
said that it is safe to do so.
In the event of a fire it is important that we know exactly who is present in the House. This is one
important reason why the signing in and out sheets should be accurate.
Visitors
From Monday to Friday there is no ‘House visiting’ until 8.30pm. At weekends the visiting times are
posted in House. There is additional information for junior boarders (First to Third Forms), including a
separate evening routine, on page 21.
Visitors are only allowed in the Common
Room areas and must not be entertained
in any study area or bedsit, except where
prior permission has been granted by the
member of staff on duty.
On arrival all visitors MUST sign in and
also sign out when they depart. For
reasons of security and safety it is vital to
know who is on the premises at any given
time.
All visitors who do not attend
Wrekin must first ask permission
from Mr Winterton before entering
the House.
Visiting other Houses
Girls visiting other Houses may do so at the specified times and must observe the rules of the House
which they are visiting. When visiting other Houses, girls must sign in and out of that House.
14
Road Safety
When you first arrive at school, you will be warned by your Housemaster of the dangers you may face
when having to move between buildings, which are separated by public roads. You will be reminded of
this on a regular basis. A notice is permanently displayed in each House outlining the principle dangers
and codes of practice that must be followed when moving along or across the public roads on campus.
Pupils are not allowed to congregate in large groups on the public footpaths.
Moving around the campus and areas out of bounds
•
•
•
•
•
When moving around the campus you must use the internal paths where possible.
When crossing roads you MUST use the designated crossing points where possible.
You MUST NOT move around the campus alone after dark. All girls below the Fifth Form
should move around the campus in pairs as a minimum.
Pupils are not allowed to congregate in large groups on the public footpaths.
The Chockleys, the pathway behind the Bursary which runs down to Leegomery, is out of
bounds.
Bounds
Cleaner’s cupboards and Matron’s room are out of bounds. Always ask Matron or the member of staff
on duty if you need anything. You should never enter anyone else’s study or bed-sit unless the person
you want to see is present.
The Chockleys, the pathway behind the Bursary, which runs down to Leegomery, is out of bounds.
Girls below the Sixth Form are not allowed to visit the town during the normal working week.
Security and Personal Safety
For personal safety you should move around the school in pairs. The roads through the campus are not
private roads and are used by the public.
All girls must be aware of the general rules concerning strangers and their cars.
You should not leave your valuables in public places or on display in bedsits. You are provided with a
lockable cupboard for the storage personal items of value but you should not bring large sums of money
or valuable possessions into school.
If there is a specific reason for you to bring in an amount of money or something valuable it must be
handed in to Mr Winterton for safekeeping.
There are security lights around the building as well as a CCTV system. Everyone must take
responsibility to shut windows and keep doors secure. The external doors will be alarmed at night.
There are regular fire alarm checks, drills, and equipment checks.
The main entrance has a security code lock; keep this number as secret as possible and never shout it
out!
Safety of your Personal Property
It is not possible for the school to accept liability for your personal items. You and your parents are
encouraged to make your own arrangements to insure these items, especially valuable ones such as
jewellery, mobile phones, music systems, cameras or computers. Staff members are generally willing to
look after valuables and will always take all possible precautions to look after them, but cannot take any
responsibility if the valuables are lost or stolen whilst in their care.
All girls have a lockable space in which to safely store personal items.
15
Computers and Laptops
There are computers and printers for your use in the Foyer and also some computers in the Senior
Common Room; please look after them and report any problems to Matron as soon as possible.
To log on to the school system you will be given your own password and user name. You will also be
given your school email address.
It is important that you have signed, and that your parents have countersigned, the Acceptable Use
Agreement.
Before using your own laptop you must have it properly checked and set up by Mr Trimby or Mr Sadler.
They can be found in the ICT Support Room in the Gordon School.
Mobile Phones and other Electronic Devices
Your mobile phone or other electronic device is your own responsibility. Your mobile phone number
must be given to Mr Winterton.
Mobile Phones and other Electronic Devices – Rules
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
All pupil phone numbers must be registered with their Housemaster/Housemistress. The
Housemaster/Housemistress must be informed immediately of any change of number.
Mobile phones should be on silent at any time when an official school event is taking place. This includes
all lessons, meal times, concerts, Chapel etc.
Pupils must not make or receive calls or texts during lessons or while on the public roads around the
campus.
Pupils must not walk around the campus listening to music on their mobile phone (or any other device).
If for some reason a pupil’s phone rings whilst they are in a public place, they should answer only to
confirm that they will call back at a more appropriate time.
Boarding pupils should not use their phone (or any other device) after bedtime as this may disturb others.
Pupils MUST NOT take pictures or record videos without the prior consent of the individual(s)
concerned.
Whist travelling on school mini buses pupils MUST NOT play music on their device or use flash
photography which may distract the driver and compromise the safety of all those on board the mini bus.
Pupils are not allowed to have inappropriate, offensive or malicious material stored on their phone or
other device.
Pupils MUST NEVER send unkind or inappropriate text messages or images.
Pupils MUST NOT use anonymity apps such as Yik Yak.
Pupils under the age of 18 MUST NOT use their device to access sites that require them to be 18 to sign
up.
Pupils SHOULD NOT use their device to access location based networking sites whilst at school (we
recommend for reasons of personal safety that pupils should not access such sites at any time).
Mobile phones MUST NOT be taken into an examination room.
If you do not abide by the above rules, your mobile phone or other electronic device may
be confiscated.
At times when you have free time you are encouraged to have your mobile phone switched on in the
event of the school needing to locate you quickly.
16
Medical
Mrs Winterton is a children’s nurse and you may see her whenever she is in. If you are unwell in the
night you or a friend/room mate must ring Mr and Mrs Winterton’s doorbell. If you are ill in the
morning you will need to see Mrs Winterton before 7.45am.
The school Medical Centre is open from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday. A Nurse is available to see
boarders, in the Medical Centre, following breakfast. The School Doctor is on site at 8.30am on
Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You are not allowed to remain in bed in Hadden Hall if you are ill
because the House is unsupervised during the day, therefore if you are ill you will be taken across to the
Medical Centre to spend the day there under the care of a Nurse.
A Nurse is on call at all times.
Any medication brought into school must be handed into Mr Winterton immediately.
Girls are not allowed to keep home remedies, including paracetamol, in their room.
Medication from Home
Medication, including home remedies such as paracetamol, should not be brought into school.
Any pupil requiring medication, such as paracetamol, should visit the Medical Centre. For out of hours
medication you must see the member of staff on duty.
Other necessary medication, such as antibiotics, brought into school MUST be handed into Matron and
she will hand it over to the Medical Centre staff who will oversee its administration.
Meals and Food
You must attend all school meals unless you are given permission to do otherwise. All dietary
requirements are catered for; there will always be something you can eat. You must abide by the
school dress code for meal times (uniform during a weekday until 5.30pm). There is a daily provision of
milk, bread and butter in the House. You are also allowed to bring your own tuck. It is vital that you
eat properly during the day. It is also permissible for girls, at weekends, to order “takeaways” with the
consent of the member of staff on duty. Food should only be eaten in the Common Rooms, please do
not eat in your bedsit.
Dress
School uniform is worn Monday to Friday from after breakfast until 5.30pm, thereafter you may wear
home clothes. When wearing home clothes you should ensure that your skirts and shorts are not too
short as to compromise your modesty and that your tops are of a sufficient length to cover your midriff.
Plunging necklines and very sheer fabrics are not allowed.
During the working day:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Make-up and nail varnish are not allowed.
Jewellery must be kept to a minimum.
You may only wear a maxiumum of 2 discreet pairs of earrings in the ear lobe; other visible
piercing is not allowed.
Tattoos are not allowed.
Long hair must be neatly tied back and kept off the face.
Extremes in hair colour and style are not allowed.
Sixth Form girls MUST only wear suits, skirts or trousers purchased from the School Shop.
Sixth Form girls are not allowed to wear sheer blouses.
17
Other points:
• Extremes in hair colour and style are not allowed.
• Tattoos are not allowed.
You are expected to maintain a certain standard of dress at all times, particularly within public areas of
the House; there will be members of staff on duty and you don’t want to be caught in the corridor in
your underwear! You are expected to have name tapes on every item of clothing. It is useful to keep
some spare name tapes. There is additional information regarding the school dress code in the Parent
Handbook and in your School Planner.
If you are given permission to go down town during a weekday you should either wear your school
uniform or games kit, which includes track suit bottoms (not skorts) and trainers (not UGG boots).
Dress code for school trips and functions
Some school trips and functions require you to wear your school uniform; for others, for example a
Geography field trip, the teacher will specify what clothing you should wear.
For trips and functions when home clothes may be worn, the following rules apply:
•
•
•
•
•
Make up and nail varnish are not allowed (except for social events, for example the Fifth Form
Ball).
Shorts and mini skirts are not allowed.
Tops should not have a plunging neckline and should be of a sufficient length so as to cover the
midriff.
Torn jeans are not allowed.
Logos and artwork on clothing must not be offensive.
Bedsits and Dormitories
You are strongly encouraged to personalise your rooms with posters and other personal effects.
However, posters should only be attached to the pin boards.
We have a wonderful team of House ladies who do more for the girls than they are expected to.
Therefore, you are kindly asked to make a concerted effort to keep the House, including your room, as
tidy as possible.
You are expected to make your own bed before 8am during the week, the floor should be clear and
desk and study area presentable, otherwise it is very difficult to clean your room properly.
Domestic appliances such as heaters, kettles and toasters are not permitted in bedsits because of the
fire hazard that they pose but they are provided in the kitchen areas.
NB: Open flames such as candles are not allowed in any part of the House.
Bathrooms
There are baths and showers on both floors. Girls wishing to take a bath or shower before bedtime,
must do so in good time for lights out. No girl should be taking a bath or shower after 10pm. The
bathrooms must be left clean and tidy.
18
Laundry
Matron has a bag system for the collection of laundry and usually washing is returned within 48 hours of
being collected. It is advisable that you have more than one set of everything (especially sports clothing)
so that you have one to wear when one is in the wash! A small laundry wash bag is provided for
underwear, please do not over fill these.
Items for dry cleaning usually take five working days. Matron normally returns your laundry to your
locker in the laundry room. You will need to strip your bed for washing bed linen on Tuesday
mornings, then collect your fresh bed linen in the evening and make your own bed.
Radios, Televisions and Laptops
Radios etc should never be played too loudly and must be switched off when you leave your room. You
are asked to be considerate towards others. During the warmer weather when windows are open
music must be turned down.
There are TVs in each of the three Common Rooms and a House DVD library. TVs should not be on
during the working day.
Films and TV Programmes
Films and TV programmes with an 18 Certificate rating are not permitted. Films and TV programmes
must be the appropriate age for the girls watching them (if this includes a group of girls, the film must be
suitable for the youngest member of the group).
Cars
You may only bring a car to school with permission from the Headmaster, your Housemistress and Mr
Winterton. Permission must be granted before parking in the Hadden Hall car park.
Girls with permission to bring their car to school:
•
•
•
Must not drive it during the working day without the permission of their Housemistress (and
that of Mr Winterton after 6pm and at weekends).
Must not drive another pupil without the permission of their Housemistress (and that of Mr
Winterton after 6pm and at weekends) and the permission from the passenger’s
Housemistress/Housemaster, who will have also sought the permission of the passenger’s
parent or guardian.
Must not consume alcohol at a school event if they intend to drive afterwards.
You are not allowed in cars other than those of parents and staff unless specific permission is given –
this includes written permission from parents.
You should be aware of the dangers concerning strangers and getting into their cars.
19
Exeat Weekends and other Holidays
Mr Winterton must be informed if you are staying anywhere other than at home, at Woodthorne
(school Medical Centre) or with your designated guardian, and if there are to be any changes in your
usual arrangements. Girls who are here on a visa will be asked to complete a travel arrangement form
well in advance of their departure from school.
It is assumed that all leave is with a girl’s own family or designated guardian. If you are invited to stay
with another family you must notify Mr Winterton. No alternative arrangements are permitted without
Mr Winterton’s permission.
For all other overnight leave, Mr Winterton must have written approval from your parents or guardian
and this must also be requested in writing by the parents of the person(s) being visited.
Tidiness
Common Rooms should be left tidy every evening. The Head of House will organise a rota but you are
expected to tidy up after yourself and you should not expect the person on duty to do it for you. You
are also expected to make your own bed before 8am during the week, keep the floor clear and desk
and study area in your room presentable.
It should be stressed that each individual should take responsibility for cleanliness and tidiness in the
House as a matter of course. Antisocial attitudes with regard to cleanliness and tidiness are not
acceptable.
Games
You must not play ball games in the House and must not use skateboards or rollerblades in the House,
no matter how tempting!
20
Damage
Things will get broken from time-to-time. All damage must be reported immediately either to Matron
or Mr Winterton. Non-accidental damage in the House will not be tolerated and girls will be charged
the full rate for work resulting from thoughtlessness. Any graffiti will be treated in the same manner.
Sanctions
Girls are expected to behave in a sensible and civilised manner with due regard for other people,
property and safety. It is hoped that all girls will develop a sense of community spirit and a good
measure of self-discipline. When breaches of conduct do occur, punishments, of the type which benefit
the community rather than any individual, are set.
Any House punishment given by Mr Winterton or a Tutor will be recorded and signed for. Senior
pupils are not allowed to punish other pupils.
Rewards
The school has a system of rewards given to pupils when their work or behaviour is exceptional.
We also have a system of rewards in Hadden Hall. For those girls who make a positive contribution to
the life of the House in any significant way they may be awarded a Merit or an appropriate treat such as
chocolate, cakes, takeaways, trips out at the weekend, slightly later bedtimes or parties.
Lesson timings and the School Rules are printed in your Student Planner
21
Bullying
It is the school’s strongly held belief that bullying is never acceptable. If, at any time, you feel that you
are being bullied or someone you know is being bullied, then you should tell your
Housemaster/Housemistress, your Tutor, Matron, or any other staff member with whom you feel
comfortable. This is the key; we cannot help if pupils do not talk to us. Remember that we can help and
the situation can be improved. Talking is vital. Bullying can be:
Verbal
Psychological
Physical
Social
Written (including email and texts)
Getting Help
Life at school can have its ups and downs. If you are new or if you have been at this school for some
time, you may encounter problems or situations, which you may find difficult to cope with or resolve.
There is always someone who can help you. If you are not sure who to go to, follow this simple rule ask someone else. And that can mean anyone!
The Housemaster and Tutors are always ready to help or give advice. If you don't feel able to share
your thoughts with a member of the House staff, then talk to another teacher, or a Prefect, or even a
friend. Remember your parents are only a phone call away, and they probably know you best of all.
The Head of House, Deputy Head of House or Matron will always be prepared to listen to your
problems or concerns. Members of the Peer Support team are also here to help you, see below.
You will not be laughed at or made to feel silly, no matter how difficult the problem seems to be.
Often, situations can be resolved easily if you just share your concerns with another person. You will
probably find that many other people have experienced similar feelings to you, and know how it feels to
be in your shoes!
Peer Support – what is it?
There is a group of Sixth Form fully trained pupils and whatever the worry, their friendly, confidential
service can help you get back on track. There are posters up around school - they have all been
photographed, you can see which Houses they belong to, all the subjects that they are studying and even
the languages that they speak.
You can approach them informally whilst walking between lessons and your House and if they do not
have the time to talk to you at that moment, they will organise a time when they can. If you would
prefer things to be more private you can email them at [email protected] and the Peer
Support Co-ordinator will contact one of them on your behalf. There is a Peer Support Room in the
Tuck Shop building and if you need to chat away from everyone and away from your House you can
meet a member of the team there.
Members of the Peer Support team also work in Houses and in lessons to help pupils who may need
some extra support with their academic studies.
Independent Listener
If you wish to talk to someone who is not attached to the school but who is available to talk to in
confidence, then Felicity Summers might be just the right person. You can find her in the school’s
Medical Centre at 1pm until 2pm on some Wednesdays as advertised in the Blue Book and on the
House notice board.
22
The procedure for making complaints may be found in your Blue Book, your
Student Planner and on the school’s website.
Communication
Email
Staff sometimes use emails to communicate with pupils and vice versa. You should not use your private
email address to communicate with staff. You will be given your email address when you arrive at
school.
The main school email address is: [email protected]
Staff email addresses are easy to work out. They begin with their initial, followed by their
surname and then @wrekincollege.com For example, Mr Winterton’s email address is
[email protected] (note: we do not include hyphens in hyphenated names!)
Telephone
There is a payphone by the front door. It takes coins only but it will also accept incoming calls.
The number is: 0044 (0) 1952 265713
23
Useful Contact Details
Mr Winterton, Housemaster: 01952 265665 (home), 07759 564326 (mobile 24 hours) put this
number into your mobile so you can always get hold of him if you need help.
Hadden Hall (Payphone): 01952 265713
Mrs Hodgkins, Matron: 07557 788819
Mrs Davies, Clarkson Housemistress: 01952 265637
Mrs Crone, Roslyn Housemistress: 01952 265662 or 265680
Mrs Kotas, Lancaster Girls’ Housemistress: 01952 265633
Mrs Clarke, Pastoral Deputy Head and Child Protection: 01952 265685 (home) or
07811 560504 (mobile 24 hours). Email: [email protected]
Peer Support: [email protected]
Headmaster’s Office: 01952 265602 (Fax: 01952 415068)
Bursar's Office: 01952 265600
Phoning from abroad: 0044 then take off the next 0 i.e. 00 44 1952…
Mail
There is a post box on the wall opposite the House. The school also runs its own excellent mail service
from the Bursar's Office. Any mail arriving at school for you will be passed on to Mr Winterton and he
will hand to you. Parcels will be collected by Matron from the Bursar's Office and passed on to you.
The House address is: Hadden Hall, c/o Wrekin College, Sutherland Road, Wellington, Shropshire,
TF1 3BH, England.
24
Specific School Rules
Breaching any of the following 16 rules constitutes a very serious offence for which a pupil will
be placed within our disciplinary system. Dependent on the seriousness of the breach, a pupil
might be asked to leave the school. The following (including any criminal act, contravening
UK law, committed at any time) are unacceptable.
1. Any form of bullying (including offences against gender, race, religion, disability, sexuality and learning differences).
2. Unauthorised physical contact between pupils of any age (including that of a sexual nature).
3. Offensive, threatening or sexually rude behaviour towards others (pupils or staff) by physical, verbal or written
means (including electronic communication).
4. Buying, trying to buy, selling, consuming or using drugs, alcohol or tobacco, attempting to bring such items into
school or encouraging other pupils to use them. Misuse of substances including solvents etc.
5. Smoking at any time or place during term time, including any outing, visit or match organised by the school.
Electronic cigarettes are not allowed.
6. Entering licensed premises (except those Upper Sixth pupils who are given permission from the relevant HsM to
use specified public houses. On these occasions only eighteen year olds are permitted to consume alcohol).
7. Taking or using another pupil’s possessions without his/her permission.
8. Breaking the school’s use of cars policy. This includes driving a car without written consent from the parents and
permission from the Headmaster/HsM and riding in a car driven by someone other than parents or a member of
staff, unless specific permission has been obtained from the relevant HsM.
9. Possessing offensive or dangerous weapons, including laser pens or laser pointers, explosives or fireworks.
10. Breaking the school’s use of mobile devices policy and inappropriate use of mobile devices. This includes making or
receiving calls or texts during lessons or while on the paths or roads in and around the campus; walking around the
campus listening to music; the use of mobile devices, email or internet to access or send inappropriate material,
messages or images; or to be in possession of inappropriate material, messages or images, including pornographic
material. Taking photographs or making recordings of pupils or staff, without prior consent, are also forbidden.
11. Betting or gambling, including online betting or gambling.
12. Bringing the school, its staff or pupils into disrepute or danger through poor behaviour at any time or via any media
including the internet and social networking sites or by breaking the school’s Acceptable Use Policy.
13. Tampering with electrical or mechanical appliances, including fire alarms, fire extinguishers etc.
14. Unauthorised absence (truancy).
15. Breaking bounds, including being out of House after lock-up time, without prior permission from the HsM or entering the
private areas within another House.
16. Pupils below the Sixth Form are not allowed to visit the town, unless there is a legitimate reason and only then with
the permission of the HsM. Sixth Form are allowed to visit town on Tuesdays and Wednesday for one hour.
Uniform or full games kit must be worn when going down town.
Other school rules
The following are forbidden:
•
•
•
•
Bringing bicycles to school without prior written consent from parents and approval of the HsM.
Eating in the streets and shops of the town and in the school grounds, except in the immediate area of the Tuck
Shop. No food or drink may be taken into teaching buildings, the Music School, Theatre, Swimming Pool or
Sports Hall.
Chewing gum.
Ball games in the immediate vicinity of all school buildings and snowballing (except on the lower playing fields).
Please see the school’s Behaviour, Rewards and Sanctions Policy for further information.
25
The School's Mission Statement
Wrekin College is an Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School for pupils aged 11 to 18.
Founded in 1880 by Sir John Bayley the school still works to his original philosophy of providing
individual attention to individual pupils.
Wrekin is:
•
•
A school which adds value to the lives of all its pupils
A school which every child believes is ‘their school’, and where every child has an
•
•
A school that takes pride in itself, but is never complacent
A school where pupils understand that a first-rate education is a privilege, and one
equal chance to contribute
they have a duty to live up to
Academic life: Wrekin has a strong academic record. We pride ourselves on stimulating intellectual
curiosity, providing excellent and inspiring teaching, and making learning exciting. Our guiding principle
is to help every child achieve the most they are capable of, prepare them for the competitive world they
will enter, and give them a lasting sense of the pleasure and value of learning that will enrich their future
lives.
Co-curricular activities: of course, what happens on the sports pitch and in the music rooms, the
theatre and the art studios is just as important in Wrekin life. The range and quality of activities
available to every pupil at Wrekin is exceptional, especially for a school this size. Pupils’ development
and achievements in these areas are supported by wonderful facilities and highly dedicated staff.
Pastoral care: we strongly believe that pupils should be at the centre of any school. The happiness
and fulfilment of every child is the first concern of the staff at Wrekin: we offer individual care and
attention, both to boarders and day pupils. At Wrekin the pastoral care is first-rate, the Chapel,
charitable activities and consideration for others are very much part of day-to-day life.
Wrekin College has a proud and distinguished history, and is a very happy place for staff and pupils to
live and work. We are committed to taking the school forwards over the next few years in a way that
is true to its traditions and continues to build on its reputation and successes.
Tim Firth
Headmaster
26
Synopsis of General Care for Pupils at Wrekin
Pupils are allocated to one of six competitive Houses of approximately 60 pupils. There are five single sex Senior
Houses catering for a range of age groups from 13 to 18 years; Bayley (boys), Clarkson (girls), Roslyn (girls), Tudor
(boys) and York (boys). Lancaster House is a co-educational House and caters specifically for the needs of pupils
aged 11 to 13.
Each House has a Housemaster/Housemistress and an Assistant Housemaster/Housemistress, as well as Tutors
and a Matron, who all share in catering for the academic, pastoral and welfare needs of the pupils. Each pupil has a
Tutor. The Tutor helps to monitor the progress of pupils, to advise them about academic and personal matters
and to take an interest in them as individuals.
Most of the teaching staff live on the school campus and are available to pupils in the evenings and weekends. The
House Matron arranges for pupils' laundry (Boarders only) and has a team of cleaners to maintain standards of
hygiene and appearance in the House. Each Senior House appoints a School Prefect and a body of senior pupils as
House Prefects who assist with the welfare, safety and discipline of the other pupils. They are expected to have a
considerable role to play in the overall happiness and smooth running of day-to-day life in the House. In Lancaster
House there are three School Prefects and a number of Lower Sixth pupils who assist in the day-to-day life of the
House and the general welfare of the junior pupils.
Male Boarders are housed in Bayley (11 to 18) or Tudor (13 to 18) and females in Hadden Hall. Hadden Hall is
solely a Boarding House catering specifically for the needs of female Boarders aged 11 to 18 and has a resident
Housemaster and Assistant Housemistress.
The school’s Medical Centre offers 24 hours a day cover 7 days a week by a State Registered Nurse. One of the
School Doctors visits the Medical Centre most weekdays. We have arranged for visits by a male and female
doctor.
Pupils are fed in a central facility run by an outside catering organisation. Boarders receive three meals per day,
with a choice of dishes, including vegetarian meals, at each one. Day pupils eat lunch in the Dining Hall and supper
is available for them if it is required. Special dietary needs are readily catered for and each House has facilities for
the preparation of light snacks and hot drinks at other times of day.
Boarding Mission Statement
Our aim when looking after our boarders is to ensure that each individual is presented with a safe and happy
environment in which to live. The staff attached to each House share the responsibility of looking out for the
interests of every boy or girl in the House through acting as Tutors and undertaking house duties. The Tutors
take a special interest in the welfare and academic performance of their charges and encourage a proper work
ethic. All House staff monitor the personal and social development of the boarders and encourage an atmosphere
in which each pupil respects the needs of the other boarders. The Boarding House is the home to these pupils for
large periods of their life; the Boarding House will respect the individual privacy of pupils, whilst incorporating
them into a cohesive community. Everything possible is done to ensure that they feel secure and have an adult
they can trust to turn to in time of need.
This statement addresses Standard 1 of the Boarding Schools National Minimum Standards Statement of Boarding Principles and Practice, states:
A suitable statement of the school’s boarding principles and practice is available to parents and staff, is made
known to boarders, and is seen to work in practice.
This statement is printed in the Staff Handbook, Pupil House Handbooks, Parent Handbook and may be
viewed on the school’s website.
27
28