Parents' Handbook2020-2021

Sixth Form

WWW.YARMSCHOOL.ORG

PARENTS’ HANDBOOK – SIXTH FORM

2020 - 2021

January 2020 Dear Parent It gives me great pleasure to welcome you and your child to Yarm School. I hope very much that you will enjoy your years of association with the School and that your child will find them happy, fulfilling and productive. We look forward to working closely with you from now on. The purpose of this booklet is to help you to get to know the School a little better and to provide the information most needed by new parents. I do hope that you will find it helpful. If, having read it, you still have questions about the School, please do not hesitate to contact us. The School Office is open in term time between 8.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m. and in the holidays between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm In addition to this booklet you will receive a number of forms with reply slips (see page 51). I would be very grateful if you could complete these and return them to my PA, as soon as possible. Our first aim is to ensure that your child feels happy and confident in their new surroundings and I take this opportunity to wish them every possible success and happiness in their career at Yarm School. Yours sincerely Huw Williams Headmaster

CONTENTS

Page

Yarm School Board of Governors 5

The Aims and Ethos of Yarm School 6 - 8

Home/School Partnership 9 - 11

Information for the New School Year 12 - 15

School Term Dates 16

Yarm School Staff – Who’s who 17 – 19

Academic Matters 20 – 22

Examinations 23 – 24

Sixth Form Facilities 25

Career Advice and University Applications 26

Physical Education, Sport and Games 27 – 28

Music 29

Expectations and School Rules 30 - 37

Health and Safety Information 38 - 40

Transport and School Services 41 – 42

School Lunches 43

Uniform, Possessions and Insurance 44 – 45

Uniform Regulations 46– 50

List of Contents of the “Forms Pack” 51

Appendix A Request for Leave of Absence

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YARM SCHOOL - BOARD OF GOVERNORS

The membership of the Board of Governors is listed on the school website. Any correspondence with the Board of Governors should be addressed to the Chair of Governors, and sent to the school address. It will then be forwarded to the Chair from the school office.

HEADMASTER

Dr Huw Williams Email: head@yarmschool.org

For an appointment to see the Headmaster or for any telephone contact with him, please ring and ask to speak to the Headmaster’s Personal Assistant:-

Yarm School The Friarage

Yarm Stockton on Tees

TS15 9EJ Tel: 01642 786023

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THE AIMS AND ETHOS OF YARM SCHOOL We are grateful to you for entrusting to us the education of your child. At Yarm School we seek to bring out the best in every student in our care and to give them the best possible all round education. We aim:

• to build and sustain a friendly, tolerant and supportive community in which all of our members are valued equally,

• to teach our students to enjoy their education, to see it as a lifelong experience and to support them in making important career decisions,

• to pursue high personal, academic and social standards,

• to develop in our students personal qualities such as curiosity, concern,

industry, reliability, honesty, creativity, enterprise, appreciation and respect,

• to develop an active and open relationship with parents,

• to encourage students to take full advantage of the opportunities on offer

to them,

• to show a sense of responsibility towards the local and wider community, and to prepare our students for the challenges and opportunities of adult life.

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THE SCHOOL ETHOS

We believe that the School should be a happy and positive community, characterised by an appreciation of, and respect for, the work of every individual. Our School aspires to excellence and has high expectations of every student. We want our students to do their best and we insist on high standards of industry and application. We expect students to be honest, to practice good manners in all their relationships, to be reliable and punctual and be consistently smart in their appearance. We want them to be proud of their School. In following Christian principles, we seek to promote mutual tolerance and a friendly atmosphere, in which students of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds, of all religious persuasions and of varying levels of ability are welcome. We believe that every student has the right to look for happiness and security at School. We insist that students do not make others miserable, whether through overt bullying or through less obvious forms of pressure or alienation. We attach particular gravity to such offences. We recognise that our students will have various talents and different rates of development. We value every achievement, however modest, which stems from the honest efforts of the individual. It is our hope that every student should discover at least one area of School life in which they can show genuine prowess, and can develop through the experiences available. Our School depends upon the support of parents. We will always aim to keep parents informed about their child’s progress in School and to respond to any requests promptly and courteously. We are fortunate to have a parental body which is so supportive of the School and its aims. A good school is made by staff whose talents, zeal, morale, team work and professional competence are of vital importance. It is the responsibility of the School’s Management to promote their professional development. All staff are exemplars at all times to the students, who will note most attentively every aspect of the professional and personal conduct of all staff, including any hint of double standards. All staff are expected to share and uphold the aims and ethos of the School. When they judge that it is necessary to criticise, correct or punish it is important that they should avoid any language or behaviour likely to undermine their professional status.

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We hope and trust that all teachers will derive pleasure and satisfaction from their service to Yarm School and that none will ever feel inhibited from raising with the Headmaster or colleagues in the Management Team any matters of serious concern or anxiety. Religious considerations and School Church Services In line with the School’s Christian principles, the School has always held a Christmas Carol Service at the end of the Autumn Term, an Easter Service at the end of the Spring Term and for members of the U6th, a Leavers’ Service in the Summer Term. Visiting speakers are drawn from mainstream Christian denominations and also, at times, from other faiths. Attendance at these services is normally compulsory but consideration for other faiths, religious or atheistic or agnostic belief systems is made by the School and for which alternative arrangements are made. If acceptance of these religious arrangements poses difficulty for a parent or their child, the circumstances should be discussed with the Headmaster before entry.

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HOME/SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP

We will seek, at all times, to work closely with parents and to keep you informed of your child’s progress. It is understood that, in accepting a place for a student at the School, the parents support the aims of the School and will therefore co-operate to the fullest extent with regard to the School’s rules and academic requirements. In particular, it is assumed that the parents have granted the Headmaster full authority to act “in loco parentis” in respect of their child during school time and that they acknowledge the Headmaster’s right to call upon the assistance of his staff to help him undertake this authority. The School has very firm requirements regarding attendance, homework and preparation, dress and appearance and discipline; students are only accepted on the understanding that in these matters the School will receive full parental support. These requirements are described elsewhere in this booklet.

Contact with the School The School welcomes parental contact and will always do its best to respond to any request promptly. Many simple queries can be answered by the School Receptionist and Reception is always staffed during normal, working hours. However, more specific queries should be addressed to the relevant member of staff. The preferred means of contact is by e-mail which is fast and efficient. The email addresses of staff are available on the Parent Portal.

Sixth Form Welcome Evening In September the School will organise a welcome evening for the parents of all new students joining the Sixth Form. The intention is to inform parents of what to expect in the Sixth Form and how best to support students as they embark on A Level study. It is hoped that the parents of all Lower Sixth students will attend.

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Reports and Parents’ Evenings Reports are via the Parent Portal at appropriate times throughout the Sixth Form years and are designed to fit in with Parents’ Evenings so that there is regular and helpful feedback on each student’s progress. There are two types of reports; one or two of each of these are published each year, depending on the pattern of reports and parents’ evenings for each year group.

a) An Interim Report provides a snapshot of the pupil’s performance in each subject, with grades and learning targets. This is usually accompanied by a self-review, so that the pupils are actively engaged in the process of monitoring, assessing and improving their own progress.

b) Formal Reports include full written comments by all subject teachers, as well as by the Tutor, Head of Sixth Form and another member of the Senior Management Team.

When reports are published, we ask parents to acknowledge that they have read them by clicking the acknowledgement button on the Portal. We encourage parents to use this acknowledgement as a means of commenting in response to reports. Mock Examinations are held in late February for Upper Sixth students. Results are reported formally to parents shortly after the examinations. Lower Sixth end of year examinations take place in a two week period in late May/early June. Parents’ Evenings are held three times during the Sixth Form.

• Lower Sixth – March • Upper Sixth – September and January

All subject teachers will be present at each evening and we strongly encourage all parents to attend with their son or daughter so that valuable three-way conversations can take place about academic progress and performance.

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Weekly Newsletter This is a weekly publication which is distributed to all parents via email. The Newsletter features regular news from the Headmaster, staff and students on special events, sports results and competitions etc. It also contains important information about forthcoming School events. The Newsletter and other recent editions are available in full colour on our website.

Website and ‘Message Board’ (www.yarmschool.org). The school’s website is a fantastic source of information which is updated regularly. At times of very bad weather a notice will be posted by 7.00 a.m. Yarm School Association

The Yarm School Association comprises parents, teachers and friends of the School. The purpose of the YSA is to encourage parental participation in the life of the School and this aim is fostered in several ways. The staging of attractive social events, for example barbecues, dances, concerts and such like, forms a major part of the Association's activities. These are advertised in the school newsletter and all parents are warmly encouraged to support these events. A warm welcome is given to all new members of the YSA. If you are interested in joining this association please contact the School Office who will give you details of the next meeting.

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INFORMATION FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR

Familiarisation Visit All those students who are joining Yarm School from other institutions will be invited to a Familiarisation Visit in late June. The date is chosen so that students will have just finished their GCSE examinations. Students will be able to meet others joining the Sixth Form in September and will listen to a brief presentation from the Head of Sixth Form and other key staff so they can find out what to expect when they arrive for the new term. They will be able to have another look around the School and meet some of the staff with whom they will be working in the Lower Sixth. Induction Day – Wednesday 2nd September 2020 Normal School routine will commence at 8.30 am on Thursday 3rd September 2020 but all Lower Sixth students are required to attend on the previous day Wednesday 2nd September for a series of induction activities. The day will involve both those students who have joined from Yarm School Fifth Year and those who have joined from other schools. The Head of Sixth Form will write to all students at the end of the summer term with further details. There will be no lessons on this first day but it would be a good idea to arrive equipped with a pen and something to write on. Full School uniform is required for this first day. The Sixth Form dress regulations are detailed elsewhere in this booklet. Please note: Coach services will commence on Thursday, 3rd September 2020 Please also be aware that a one-way system operates through the School grounds at all times. Cars entering the School site should do so through the main gates next to the Church, and exit via the gates on The Spital, by the pelican crossing. The First Full School Day – Thursday, 3rd September 2020 The School day starts with registration for all students at 8.35am.

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On their first day, students should arrive in School uniform and they should have their general stationery equipment with them. (See the ‘Books and Equipment’ list on page 20). On the first day, as on all other School days, School will end at 4 pm.

Attendance and Dates

The normal times of attendance are: Monday to Friday 8.35 am until 4.00 pm. It expected that students will attend School on a full time basis unless otherwise agreed with the School. They should arrive by 8.35 am for registration (a warning bell is rung at 8.30 am) and will also be registered each afternoon at 1.35 pm. Some students may have study periods that are not timetabled – they are, however, expected to remain in School during this time to carry out private study – with the one concession of occasional Town Leave. If a student arrives at School after the end of the registration period (after 8.40) they should sign the Late List in the School Office before going to lessons. This is to ensure that we have a complete list of all students on site in case of an emergency. A student may be required to attend School at other times, subject to reasonable notice, for example to participate in extra-curricular activities. In particular, many sports have team practices which take place after School and rely upon students being able to stay behind. Similarly, sporting fixtures can take place after School or, especially, on a Saturday. The Saturday games are seen as an integral part of the School curriculum and students must understand that if they are required for a School team they are expected to play.

Town Leave It is a privilege enjoyed by Sixth Form students that they may leave the site for brief visits to Yarm High Street if they are not required in School - at break or lunchtime or during a study period. Students must sign out on the list in the Sixth Form Centre before they leave and sign back in on their return. It is essential that we know when a student is off-site in case of an emergency. Students not following this simple procedure can expect to have this privilege revoked for a period of time. When out of School during the day students are expected to behave impeccably. They are highly recognisable as Yarm School representatives. For this reason

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students are required to be dressed in full uniform, including suit jackets. Students must not visit any public houses, bars or bookmakers’ establishments. Students must not eat in the street but must bring any food or drink back to School before consumption. Students should be courteous to other people in the High Street and, in particular, they should not move about in large groups. Any form of inappropriate behaviour would certainly not be acceptable. ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL

Absence due to Illness The School expects parents to inform Reception (between 8.00 am and 8.30 am if possible) if their child is going to be absent because of illness or other unavoidable cause. This can be by telephone (01642 786023) or by e-mail (admin@yarmschool.org). Upon the student’s return to School, they must hand in to their Tutor a signed note explaining absence or parents can email the Tutor directly. If a student is taken ill during the School day or requires medical attention, they should report to the School Office where they will be assessed if necessary. The First Aider in the School Office will then contact parents as appropriate. Students should not telephone home themselves to ask to be collected.

Leave of Absence a. For dental, medical and other such appointments and for university visits

and driving tests (but not lessons). There is a system in place whereby students can request leave for such events. A form is provided for such requests and can be obtained from the School Office. The student is expected to present the form to the teachers whose lessons they would miss and should then obtain a signature from a parent or guardian before returning the form to the School Office. The system is designed to make sure that everyone is kept informed of a forthcoming absence. A copy of the Leave of Absence form is presented in an appendix.

b. Requests for permission for absence from School for a proposed holiday. It is appreciated that parents with certain occupations find it very difficult to take their holidays out of term every year, but the disruption to the educational progress of the student is out of all proportion to the time away and should be thought about very carefully. All too often vital concepts in a subject can be missed because of absence and may, in consequence, never be

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completely grasped. Furthermore, understanding in some subjects depends heavily upon stage by stage learning and gaps caused by absence can quite easily undermine a student's ability to cope with the subject at all. Parents are urged to do everything possible to avoid term-time holidays and should be aware that permission for them is very unlikely to be granted. Any such unapproved absence will be recorded as unauthorised. Requests should be addressed to the Headmaster

c. Requests for single days off for important family occasions

Such requests are always given fair consideration. Clearly permission is much more likely to be forthcoming if the student's work is up to standard. Any simple requests for absence should be addressed the Head of Sixth Form, but the Headmaster must be asked if the reason is unusual or the time off required exceeds one day. Requests should be addressed to the Headmaster or Head of Sixth Form

Whenever a student’s request for Leave of Absence is granted it is on the understanding that they take responsibility for copying up any work missed. Time taken off without permission or without the courtesy of advance notification is regarded with great disfavour and may be recorded as an unauthorised absence. Where such absence is of frequent occurrence or where its manifestation is particularly blatant, the School reserves the right to require withdrawal of the student from the School.

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SCHOOL TERM DATES FOR 2020/2021 Autumn Term, 2020 Preparation Day Tuesday 1st September 2020 New Pupil Induction Day Wednesday 2nd September 2020 Pupils return Thursday 3rd September 2020 ½ term begins Friday 16th October 2020 (after School) Pupils return Monday 2nd November 2020 Finish Friday 18th December 2020 (after School) Spring Term, 2021 Pupils return Monday 4th January 2021 ½ term begins Thursday 11th February 2021 (after School) INSET 1 Friday 12th February 2021 Pupils return Monday 22nd February 2021 Finish Friday 26th March 2021 (after School) Summer Term, 2021 Pupils return Thursday 15th April 2021 Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May 2021 ½ term begins Thursday, 27th May 2021 (after School) INSET 2 Friday 28th May 2021 Pupils return Monday 7th June 2021 Finish Friday 2nd July 2021 (after Prize Giving)

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YARM SCHOOL STAFF – WHO’S WHO The Senior Management Team

The Senior Management Team is responsible to the Governors for the day-to-day running of Yarm School. Each member has specific key responsibilities.

The Headmaster, as chief executive, has overall responsibility for the management of the School for the Governors.

The Deputy Headmaster, is responsible for the day-to-day running of the School, the pastoral system and discipline. The Deputy Headmaster is also the Senior School Designated Safeguard Lead (DSL) with responsibility for safe-guarding and child protection and has delegated authority to act for the Headmaster during absence from School.

The Deputy Head (Academic), is responsible for the academic life of the School including all Timetable and Curriculum matters. The Deputy Head (Academic) presides over subject choices and is the line manager of the Heads of Department.

The Head of Sixth Form is responsible specifically for all Sixth Form matters including oversight of UCAS applications to Universities.

The Head of Middle School, is responsible specifically for all matters concerning pupils in the First to Fifth Year and is the line manager of the Heads of Year. The Head of Middle School is also the Senior School Deputy Designated Safeguard Lead.

The Head of Learning and Achievement, is responsible for monitoring and promoting good learning throughout the school and is in charge of the Activities programme.

The Head of the Preparatory School, is responsible for all matters concerning the Preparatory School, Pre-Prep and Nursery.

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Other Staff with Key Responsibilities

School Manager (also sits on Senior Management Team) Responsible for the administration of the School; including for personnel and contract matters, licences and agreements, insurance and legal issues, and oversight of the School Coach Service.

Estates Manager (also sits on Senior Management Team) Responsible for the school buildings, grounds and facilities and health and safety.

Finance Manager (also sits on Senior Management Team) Responsible for all financial matters within the school.

Assistant Finance Manager Has specific responsibility for school fees and charges. Headmaster’s P.A. Deals with all the administration regarding admissions.

The Pastoral Team Head of Sixth Form The Head of Sixth Form is responsible for all Sixth Form matters including the pastoral welfare, discipline and overall academic progress of all members of the Sixth Form. He works closely with the Deputy Head of Sixth Form and a team of Sixth Form Tutors.

Tutors Each student is placed in a Tutor Group and the Tutor is the first point of contact for most ordinary enquiries regarding student matters. It is the Tutor who conducts the twice daily registration and to whom letters explaining absence should be addressed.

Heads of House All students are placed in one of four School Houses each run by a Head of House. Houses are for social inter-action between year groups, charity events and inter-house sporting competitions and allow all year groups to work together.

Heads of Departments Each academic subject has its own Head of Department who is responsible for organising the teaching and resources within the department.

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However, you might find the contacts below useful should you have any specific queries regarding your child’s needs: Director of Learning Support For all matters regarding support for specific learning difficulties and examination access arrangements. Director of Music For all matters regarding instrumental and singing lessons and involvement in performing school music. Director of Sport For all matters relating to school sport. Other Useful Contacts The School Office The School’s Reception is the point of contact for all general information and will be able to direct you to the most appropriate person to deal with any query. Please call: 01642 786023 or e-mail admin@yarmschool.org The Uniform Shop The Uniform Shop is open from 1.00 pm until 5.00 pm Monday to Thursday, during term time, and details of the opening times over the holiday periods are published in the Newsletter in advance of each break. Further details of the uniform requirements are given on pages 46 to 50 of this handbook. Of course, the Uniform Shop Staff and our Pastoral Staff are more than happy to assist you with any queries that you might have regarding uniform matters.

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ACADEMIC MATTERS

The Curriculum When entering the Sixth Form all students choose three main subjects for study and these can be selected in most combinations without restriction. Entry onto an A Level course demands a certain prior attainment and details of the required standards are published in the Sixth Form Prospectus each year. Students may make requests to change courses at any point but after the first few weeks of the Lower Sixth the amount of work that must be caught up makes any such change impractical. Progression from Lower Sixth to Upper Sixth is not automatic. We would be reluctant to allow anyone to continue with a subject if they had not already scored at least a D grade in the end of Lower Sixth examinations.

Homework It is important to quickly get into a regular study regime. As a guide each subject will require 4 to 5 hours of study each week. Some of this will be set homework exercises but there will also be background reading, review and consolidation. It is important to get out of the habit of only completing set tasks – Sixth Form students should be actively looking to fill their time. Although some flexibility is required, the average student should spend at least two hours each week-night and six hours over the weekend engaged in study.

Books and Equipment Students are expected to provide themselves with paper, writing materials and files. Good organisation is essential in the Sixth Form and students will rapidly accumulate a sizeable amount of written and printed notes and handouts. A4 lever-arch files for each subject are recommended for archived materials with perhaps a smaller ring binder for day-to-day use. A diary is provided and students are encouraged to make good use of this to note deadlines for work.

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A calculator is required in a surprising number of subjects and students should check this with their teachers. For mathematics and science a calculator is essential. Text books are purchased outright by students through the school rather than being issued on loan. This cost will be invoiced to parents as an ‘extra’. If older siblings have text books they no longer need then these can often be suitable but examination specifications do change regularly and may render older texts obsolete. Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) The EPQ provides the opportunity to pursue a topic of real personal interest – be it in an academic or extra-curricular field – and to produce a project product that is authentic and topic studied. The EPQ, which is graded from A* to E, is at Level 3 and is ‘worth’ half an A Level. Universities have welcomed it because the skills required to complete a successful EPQ are the same as those they look for in potential undergraduates; evidence of project management and presentation skills account for 70% of the marks making it qualitatively different to other subjects. Admissions Tutors value the qualification enormously; some courses and institutions with highly competitive entry (such as medicine, dentistry and law; Oxbridge, London and red-brick universities) are likely to look at a candidate offering EPQ more favourably. Some universities are now also making EPQ part of their entrance offers. All students have the opportunity to work towards an EPQ as part of their weekly timetable. Learning Support

The School makes provision to support students with learning difficulties such as dyslexia. The School’s Director of Learning Support can provide advice and support for parents and staff teaching students with identified needs.

We ask that parents inform the School if a student has been identified with a learning difficulty and/or is entitled to extra time in public examinations. We would not always be given this information by a student’s previous school. The department can also call upon the services of a qualified Educational Psychologist, to screen and support students.

On entry to the Sixth Form, all Lower Sixth students will take a screening test. The results of this are one of the means by which we identify students with some

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previously undiagnosed learning needs such as dyslexia. No test is perfectly accurate and we encourage any student who is having difficulty accessing their courses to speak in confidence to their teachers or to the Learning Support Department. It is normal for parents to be billed for Learning Support lessons as an “extra”. This will be discussed with the Director of Learning Support when any such recommendation is made by the School. Heads of Department have a specific responsibility to work closely with Director of Learning Support to ensure that students are adequately supported within their departments. Academic Monitoring Students whose academic performance is poor or whose self-organisation is weak may be required to carry a special report form and to obtain the teacher's signature certifying good work for each lesson. The parent's signature is also required at the end of each day. This measure is administered by the Head of Sixth Form and is designed to monitor and support progress.

Very unsatisfactory progress The School reserves the right to require a student to repeat a whole year if poor performance makes this essential. In extreme cases of inability to achieve a standard appropriate to their age and course the Headmaster may require withdrawal of the student from the School.

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EXAMINATIONS External GCE Examinations take place at the end of Upper Sixth from May until the end of June. Examination Regulations The attention of students is drawn to the JCQ Regulations for the Conduct of Examinations that are displayed in the examination room and on the Examinations Notice Board in School. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that they comply with these regulations. Any transgressions will be dealt with by the appropriate examination board and may well result in severe sanctions. It is each student’s responsibility to check the time and venue for each examination. If, for any reason, a student is likely to be late for an examination then they should make every effort to arrive as soon as possible. They will usually be given the full time for the examination and, provided they have not arrived too late then the result will stand. Examination Entries Examination entries for the summer session must be made early in the Spring Term. Students who withdraw from an examination at a later date may still be liable for the examination fee. Parents are responsible for paying all examination fees and this is invoiced as an ‘extra’. Students will be given a printed statement of entry detailing the time and date of each examination to be sat. It is the student’s responsibility to read this carefully and to make sure they arrive at the examination on time. Enquiries about Results and Access to Scripts Results of summer units are published in mid-August. At this time students will be given printed statements of their results. There are systems available whereby marks can be queried and/or copies of scripts can be requested. Details of the procedure for accessing these services are

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available from the School Office when results are published. Fees are attached to each service which vary from one board to another. Timetable variation during end of year examinations Normal lessons will continue throughout the year for students in the Lower Sixth, except during the two week period of the end of year examinations. During this period students will only be required in school when they have an examination. Normal lessons will resume following these end of year examinations until the end of the summer term. Normal lessons for Upper Sixth students will continue until the beginning of the examination period when, following the Leavers’ Service students will only be required in school when they have examinations.

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SIXTH FORM FACILITIES

Sixth Form Centre

The Sixth Form Centre is open to students from 8am until 6pm, but is not necessarily supervised throughout that time. There are two common rooms with WiFi, television and computing facilities and an outdoor area with benches and a gazebo. Students accept joint responsibility for keeping the common rooms tidy and for encouraging others to do so. In particular, in order to safeguard the soft furnishings and carpets, food should only be consumed in the hard floor area. From time to time the common rooms may be required for use by other sections of the School but this is kept to a minimum. The Sixth Form Library The Library is staffed and available for use by all students from 8.00 am until 5.30 pm every day. Two Librarians are employed to help students with their research. With sufficient notice the Library can locate most books or journals students may wish to consult. The Library is reserved for independent silent study. It is not appropriate to conduct group work in there or any task requiring discussion. The Library and the computers there are reserved for study use and students should otherwise use the computers in the Sixth Form Centre. Students who fail to follow the Library rules or the instructions of the Librarians will be required to leave the Library and may be denied access to the Library for a period of time. Computer Facilities The School runs a network of PCs running the latest versions of Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office and other software. There are four PC clusters around the School and students may access machines at break or lunchtime or when the rooms are not otherwise in use for lessons. In addition there are machines dedicated for sixth form use in the Sixth Form Centre and in the Sixth Form Library. Use of any machines is subject to the ICT usage policy and students must sign their agreement to this before being allowed to use the School computer system.

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CAREERS ADVICE AND UNIVERSITY APPLICATIONS The Head of Careers is available to offer careers advice to any student. All students will have the opportunity in the Upper Sixth of a ‘mock interview’ experience with a volunteer from business or academia. The majority of students progress to university courses after leaving School and every member of the Sixth Form is given help and advice over the selection of courses to follow in further and higher education. We make sure that parents are fully involved in this process. University Applications are administered by The Head of Sixth Form, assisted by the Head of Careers and the Oxbridge Coordinator. Parents will be briefed on the University Applications process and receive a copy of the School’s guide to the process in the spring term of the Lower Sixth. Students of high ability are encouraged to apply for Oxford or Cambridge places if this is seen as appropriate. In such cases and for students wishing to read Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Medicine, special tuition is given to prepare them for the particularly challenging entry requirements. The Careers Library A selection of literature relating to careers is maintained in the School Library. This is available to all pupils but is particularly relevant to Sixth Form students. Materials should not be removed from the Library.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORT AND GAMES At Yarm School we are fully committed to giving every student a broad and stimulating sporting experience. We believe strongly that students should be encouraged to enjoy sport and to see it as a fun and necessary part of a healthy lifestyle. The School’s Games and PE programme is organised by the Director of Sport, assisted by the Head of Boys’ Games and the Head of Girls’ Games. PE and Games are taught by qualified PE staff supported by other teaching staff who have relevant coaching experience or qualifications. A very full programme of sports activities is arranged for each Monday and Wednesday afternoon and attendance at these activities is a compulsory part of the Sixth Form curriculum. Students may choose games options at the start of each term. There is the option for students to use part of each afternoon for private study. During the school year students will have the opportunity to take part in the following sports: Rugby, Hockey, Rowing, Netball, Rounders, Tennis, Cricket and Athletics. In addition, teams are fielded for Cross Country and Rugby 7’s. In PE and Senior Games, there is a far wider range of options including Dance, Health-related Fitness, Squash, Table Tennis, Swimming, Volleyball, Outdoor Education and Gymnastics.

Physical Education and Games Kit Clean sports clothes should be brought to School on games days and then taken home again. The kit required will depend on the games options taken. The PE department and the uniform shop can advise on requirements. The School will advise parents if and when it may be necessary to buy a student special equipment. The School has sufficient stocks to start off learners in all the various activities.

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Fixtures and Matches Students who are members of School teams will be expected to represent the School as a member of a team from time to time and this may require them to be available on Saturdays or after school. If the weather conditions change and you wish to confirm that a match is still on please refer to the School Twitter accounts:-

@Yarmgirlsgames @Yarmboysgames Parents can also check the School Sport part of the Senior School website.

Excused from Games A student who cannot take part in a lesson or play games for reasons of illness or injury must bring a brief letter from their parents, addressed to the Director of Sport or PE/Games Teacher, giving an outline of the problem and of the restrictions which apply. Alternatively an email request may also be sent. The letter/email may cover up to two or three days, but requests to be excused for longer periods may need to be supported by a professional medical certificate.

Spectators Parents are most welcome as spectators at any School or House match. The School’s expectations regarding good sporting conduct extends to both parents and students in this situation. Very often a cup of tea is available in the Dining Hall for spectators after a match. Activity Lessons

The last lesson for the whole School on a Tuesday and Thursday is the Activity Lesson. Students may choose any activity from a long and varied list. These extra-curricular opportunities are important for character building and the development of relationships which we strongly encourage. Students are encouraged to suggest any new activities which they would like to pursue in School and are offered support if they choose to organise an activity for other pupils. A number of new activities have been run in recent years as a result of the initiative of a Sixth Former.

Participation in Activity Lessons is compulsory for all students. If a student is involved in a sporting activity but due to illness or injury is unable to take part, they must bring a brief note from their parents addressed to the teacher in charge of their activity or alternatively an email sent to the same teacher.

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MUSIC

The Music Department at Yarm School has numerous visiting professional musicians who give lessons covering a wide range of instruments. Students receiving instrumental music lessons have a half hour lesson each week on a rotating timetable. Where permitting, students may receive a set lesson during a lunch or study period. The charge for tuition is updated annually and this information is available on request. The charge is payable in advance and, once lessons are undertaken they cannot be cancelled without half a term's notice in writing to the Director of Music. Students learning an instrument are encouraged to enter both the practical and theory Associated Board/London College of Music examinations and contribute towards School musical ensembles. If you are interested in your child having lessons in a musical instrument please complete Reply Slip 3 from the “Forms Pack” and return it to school in order that lessons may be arranged to commence in the first full week of term. It is possible to rent instruments. Please do not hesitate to contact the Director of Music, through the School Office, should you require advice on a choice of instrument or details of this rental scheme. The School goes to some trouble to organise and to encourage instrumental music lessons and the cost is, to an extent, subsidised by the School as a whole. In return, music students are expected to participate in instrumental music activities and willingness to join a School Ensemble, Orchestra or Band, if asked to do so, is a condition of receiving instrumental tuition in the School. Peripatetic music staff at Yarm School may be contacted via e-mail through the Director of Music.

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EXPECTATIONS AND SCHOOL RULES

A fundamental School Regulation is that you should behave at all times with consideration for, and courtesy towards others. Living in a community demands that all should conduct themselves in a manner likely to reflect well both on themselves and on the School. This principle can never be reduced merely to a set of detailed School Rules. It is, of course, not practicable to write an exhaustive list of what is acceptable and what is not and therefore common sense should prevail or, if in doubt, do not do it without first seeking advice from a teacher. The Regulations which follow serve as a general reminder of good practice and guide to behaviour in and around the School. When you are in School uniform, you are in a real sense representing the School. It is important that you show by your dress and behaviour that you have a pride in your School and in its reputation. In or out of School uniform, remember that the School will be judged by your progress, appearance and good discipline. We expect you to show consideration at all times for members of the general public. By the same token, we will take a grave view of any behaviour which brings discredit upon the School. 1 Attendance You are expected to attend during term time between the hours of 8.35am and

4.00pm. Any absence must be explained on your return by a parental letter, which should be handed to your Tutor. If, for any reason, your parents wish to request absence for you in advance, they should write to the Headmaster as soon as possible for permission.

2 Punctuality If you miss the morning registration at 8.35am or the afternoon registration at

1.35pm you must sign the Late List held by the School Office before going to your lessons. If your journey to School is causing particular difficulties please let your Tutor know at once at once.

3 Travel You must behave properly at bus stops and on public transport and school

coaches. It is a requirement for all passengers to remain seated and to wear seat belts on school minibuses and or other school coach services. Pupils may cycle to School if you have written permission from the Deputy Headmaster and confirmation from your parents that you will adhere to the School’s Health

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and Safety expectations. Members of the Sixth Form may use a motorbike again only with permission from the Head of Sixth Form.

4 Bounds During the school day you may not leave the School site unaccompanied by a

teacher unless you have the express permission of a senior member of staff to do so (see exceptions for Sixth Form Town Leave). Each year group will have certain, designated play areas with which you should familiarise yourself. Laboratories and Workshops are out of bounds unless a teacher is present. Rooms such as Boiler Houses, Kitchens, Maintenance Workshops and Stores are out of bounds to pupils.

5 The River You must keep away from the river banks at all times, unless accompanied by a

member of staff. The slipway and jetty are out of bounds, unless on a School Activity with a member of staff.

6 The Astroturf Pitch and The Paddock Pupils may only go onto the playing surface in clean training shoes. Bags, food

or drink (other than water) must not be taken inside the fencing. High standards of conduct are expected at all times, especially during morning breaks and lunchtimes when allocated year groups may use the surfaces.

7 Uniform, Appearance and Hair (See separate Uniform Regulations) Full School uniform is to be worn as set out in the School Uniform List. School

uniform must be worn when coming to and going home from School, and also when coming to and going home from school games and other school events. We expect you to wear your uniform smartly and with pride. All items must be named.

Pupils and students may wear a single stud earring in each ear, if pierced. No

other form of earring is permitted and any other piercings must be left stud free. Sixth Form students may also wear a discreet and appropriate amount of jewellery. Pupils in other year groups are not permitted to wear any other jewellery. This includes any form of necklace, bracelet or ring unless it serves a recognised medi-alert function. Make-up is not permitted, except in the Sixth Form where a small amount may be worn if discreetly applied.

Hair should be kept clear of the face, clean and tidy, neatly cut or shaped and of natural colour. Extreme styles, streaked hair or obvious highlights are not acceptable. Long hair should be tied back for PE / Games and when it could

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create a safety hazard, for example, during lab work. Hair slides / grips may be worn but should be discreet. Nothing shorter than a number 3 grade is acceptable and excessive length will require a cut. Beards, moustaches and long sideburns are not permitted.

Pupils with inappropriate hair styles will be sent home to rectify the situation.

In all of the above the judgment of the Deputy Headmaster is final. 8 Behaviour You should at all times use doors and thoroughfares with consideration for

other people. This means that you should walk rather than run. Bags should not be left where they obstruct corridors or stairs and you should use the locker areas provided. Pupils in First to Fifth Year must not take their bags to classroom blocks but should leave them in their lockers. Only members of the Sixth Form may carry bags around School and even then should leave them in the bag racks provided.

All students are expected to behave towards one another with respect; the

importance of courtesy cannot be over-stressed. Students should acknowledge approaching staff and visitors and go out of their way to assist visitors, staff and fellow students.

Most teaching rooms and laboratories contain expensive pieces of equipment

with which you must not interfere and which may only be used as directed by members of staff. You must always show care for the grounds and fabric of the School. Any damage to property should be immediately reported and may be charged for.

9 Safe Play Climbing trees, playing with branches, throwing stones, or other potentially

dangerous activities or rough play are not allowed. Running inside the School buildings and corridors is not allowed. Ball games should only be played in designated areas. If it is snowing, snowballing is forbidden to prevent injury to others.

10Litter All litter must be placed in the litter bins. Chewing gum is particularly unsightly

and is forbidden. Food items must not be taken out of the Dining Hall to be eaten later.

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11 Mobile Telephones & Other Valuables It may be necessary for some students to bring a mobile telephone to School,

particularly if they live some distance from School and/or are regularly involved in after school activities. The School has a clear policy on the possession and use of mobile telephones. If a student needs to have a mobile phone in School, a permission form must be completed by their parents and should be returned to the School Office for processing.

Mobiles may only be used as per the mobile device agreement and regulations

of use – see separate document. If these items are used inappropriately they will be confiscated in line with the school policies.

Watches, if worn, should be basic in function and not able to connect to

another device / the internet. Personal headphones should not be worn around the school site or used in lessons.

Valuable articles should not be brought into School for security reasons unless

absolutely necessary. The School cannot accept responsibility for the loss, theft of or damage to valuable articles or any items left unsecured. Pupils should hand in valuables during games and activities and must not leave items unattended in public areas such as the changing rooms. Keep your possessions secure by using your allocated locker. Remember your key every day and use it!

12 Forbidden Articles Smart watches, skateboards, dangerous toys and games, weapons, knives,

guns, laser pens, fireworks and all other dangerous articles are forbidden and must not be brought into School.

13 Buying and Selling Pupils are not permitted to buy or sell articles in School or to other pupils. 14 Smoking and Alcohol It is strictly forbidden to engage in any form of smoking or consume alcohol or

to have any such related materials in School, when participating in School activities or when in uniform.

15 Drugs and Solvents Any involvement in the purchase or abuse of drugs and / or solvents or ‘legal

highs’ automatically places at risk your future within School. Please refer to the School Drugs Policy.

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SCHOOL POLICIES

Copies of all School Policies are kept in the Senior School Office and are available for parental reference on request. Please note that these are working documents and subject to regular review/updating.

Parents may request their own copy of any policy. PDF versions of the core policies, particularly those relating to safeguarding children, are also available on the school website at www.yarmschool.org Disciplinary Sanctions Students are expected to uphold school rules, contributing positively towards the school community. On those occasions when inappropriate behaviour does occur, or work is poor, then a graded system of sanctions will apply. These begin with verbal warnings, followed by a lunchtime detention. A formal school lunchtime detention runs for half an hour, supervised by a member of the duty staff. A uniform detention is given for those pupils who have received three uniform marks and this runs for half an hour over lunchtime, supervised by the Head of Middle School. After school detentions are reserved for more serious misdemeanours and take place for one hour on Thursday evenings for each week. Parents are sent written notification of the detention at least twenty-four hours in advance. The Headmaster or Deputy Headmaster may also apply weekend or holiday detentions for more serious offences and ultimately require the suspension and exclusion of a pupil from school. Full details of the School’s expectations are given in our disciplinary and behaviour policy which is published on the website.

Complaints and Appeal against Expulsion The School has a formal Complaints Policy, a copy of which is available on request and on the School website. If parents or students are unhappy about a School decision, or the way a matter has been handled, they should refer to this policy and follow the procedure outlined to present their complaint. The School will take seriously all such complaints and undertakes to investigate and endeavours to resolve them as a matter of priority.

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The Headmaster has sole authority over exclusion or expulsion but the parent of a student so dealt with may submit a formal written appeal against any such decision. The matter will then be referred to a Complaints Panel which will include at least one person independent of the management and running of the School. This Panel will then investigate the matter and form a judgement. The Panel’s decision will be final and binding. If a parent wishes to know the number of formal complaints made in the preceding academic year, they should contact the Headmaster.

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MOBILE PHONE POLICY WE WOULD ENCOURAGE PUPILS IN FIRST TO FIFTH YEAR NOT TO BRING MOBILE

PHONES TO SCHOOL

First – Fifth Year • Should a pupil bring a mobile phone to school, it is at their own risk and must

be kept securely locked in the pupil locker throughout the school day. • The school is not responsible for any loss or damage. • All mobile phones should be password protected. • Pupils are only permitted to use their mobile phone at the end of the school

day. (Pupils can use the main office telephone or Heads of Year telephone should they need to contact home at other times).

Sixth Form • Students can carry a mobile phone around the school site and use it within

lessons where requested by the teacher. • If students do bring a mobile phone to school, it is at their own risk. • The school is not responsible for any loss or damage. • All mobile phones should be password protected and kept in silent mode. • Students can use their mobile phone outside of lesson time but should not use

it when walking between lessons or walking around the school site.

Everyone • No mobile phones are allowed in the lunch queue or in the dining hall. • The library is a phone free zone during the school day. • At 4pm phones can be taken into the library, but must remain in silent mode. • Do not send inappropriate text messages / social media posts, make nuisance

calls, take photos / video to be used maliciously or use 3G / 4G services to access inappropriate content.

Parents • Are advised to monitor their son/daughter’s social media use and the amount

of time spent gaming at home. • It is recommended that mobile devices are not in the same room when

homework or revision is taking place or kept in bedrooms overnight. • We would also recommend that parents reinforce the importance of having a

secure and confidential password on both the phone and any social media sites that their son/daughter subscribes to.

• It is strongly advised that age restrictions for social media sites should be adhered to.

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SIXTH FORM STUDENT BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE POLICY We recognise that as technology develops, more of our students have access to internet capable devices. This should be seen as a resource to provide quick and easy access to learning resources to enhance learning. Access to the wireless network with any device is filtered and access from a personal device is limited to Internet use only. Students will not have access to the school network from their personal devices. Access to the wireless network is a privilege, not a right and access to the network involves personal responsibility and compliance with all school rules. In using the Yarm School wireless network, it will mean that the school will monitor the content of user-owned devices for threats to the technical infrastructure of the school and inappropriate Internet use at any time, by teacher request or for other reasons deemed appropriate. It is possible that personal data may be inadvertently monitored, intercepted, reviewed or erased. Therefore you should have no expectation of privacy in any data on the device. The school reserves the right to prevent access to the network by any device that is considered a risk and to access material which it has reason to believe has been used to harm an individual or the school in some way. In order to gain access to the network, students will need to provide the IT Network Manager with the MAC address of their device by completing the form available from the School Office which will lead to them being given the access key via an email to their school email account. Parents Are advised to monitor their son/daughter’s social media use and the amount of time spent gaming at home. It is recommended that mobile devices are not in the same room when homework or revision is taking place or kept in bedrooms overnight. We would also recommend that parents reinforce the importance of having a secure and confidential password on both the phone and social media sites and adhere to age restrictions.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION Parents have a duty to report to the School any medical defect or problem which might affect a student's School activities or the health or safety of others. It is particularly important to bear in mind the strenuous nature of some sports and the general safety requirements of workshops and laboratories. Parents of students new to the School should complete the Health Information Form from the “Forms Pack” and return them to the School in a sealed envelope marked "CONFIDENTIAL” as soon as possible and certainly before the commencement of the term. Parents of existing students must make sure that the School is notified of any changes to the medical circumstances affecting their child at the earliest opportunity to make sure that we are aware of anything that may affect their well-being in School.

Clinical Programmes Yarm School is a day school and it would not be right, therefore, for the School to assume a comprehensive role in the medical care of its students. The main responsibility for this obviously lies with parents and family doctors. Nonetheless, many staff are First Aid trained and can support parents and students taking part in School activities or excursions. Working with the local Health Authorities, we may be required to conduct certain immunisation programmes during the School day. Health and Well-Being The health and well-being of all students is of paramount importance to ensure that all students are happy and settled in school. The school has a multi-layered pastoral structure including, Tutors, Associate Tutors, Head of Sixth Form, the School Emotional Health and Well Being Practitioner, School Counsellor and access to an Educational Psychologist. This enables pupils and families to find the person with whom they are comfortable. Many staff are also trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA).

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The Head of Sixth Form is responsible for coordinating the school support for students e.g. liaising with health professionals, organising work, reducing commitments and on-going support. Parents are also encouraged to talk to the school as soon as they have any concerns about issues surrounding adolescence or the physical, mental or emotional health and wellbeing of their child.

Accidents and Illness The First Aid Lead and several members of staff hold up to date first aid qualifications. Strict procedures to cope with accidents or illness are laid down and are fully understood by all concerned. In the event of any problem it is likely that at School a student would receive swifter and more professional care than that which is generally available in a normal household. If a student is taken ill during the School day or requires medical attention, they should report to the School Office where they will be assessed if necessary by a First Aider who will then contact parents as appropriate. Students should not telephone home themselves to ask to be collected.

Fire Safety and Fire Drill Procedures Measures to safeguard all members of the School community from the risks associated with the outbreak of a fire on site are in operation. Fire Drills are held shortly after the start of each new School year and again on a random basis so that all students are made aware of what is required of them and these expectations are reinforced through rehearsal.

Emergency Contact with Parents In the event of an accident or injury to a student the School will seek to contact parents as a matter of urgency. It is for this reason that the School holds daytime work, mobile and emergency contact numbers. Parents should kindly inform the School of any changes to these numbers. Parents can also update the details directly through the Parent Portal and Pupil Record amendments tab. These details are held on the School’s database system in accordance with the Data Protection Act.

Safety in General We would expect students in the Sixth Form to be mindful of their own safety and that of others. They are given more freedom but are also expected to behave responsibly. The School rules give clear guidance of our expectations regarding

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bounds, town leave, etc. and strictly forbid access to the riverbank, the climbing of trees or other potentially dangerous activities. Teams of teaching staff are on duty throughout the School day, supervising the coaches, play areas, courtyards and buildings. They are out and about the School to keep an eye on things, but parents will appreciate that, particularly for Sixth Form students, it is neither possible nor desirable to subject the students' recreation time to heavy-handed and petty-minded supervision.

Outside School Hours If students are not involved in formal School activities beyond 4pm they are expected to leave the School site. Students leaving the site to go into Yarm High Street and return to the School site to be collected are expected to follow the usual Town Leave signing out procedure. Students who are unable to leave the site immediately at 4pm should wait in the Sixth Form Centre or the School Library.

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TRANSPORT AND SCHOOL SERVICES

Parent Driven Cars A one-way traffic flow operates through the school grounds at all times. Cars entering the School site should do so through the main gates, next to the Church, and exit via the gates on The Spital, by the pelican crossing. There is a prohibition on stopping on The Spital to set down and pick up students. Please also observe the 10 mph speed limit within the grounds and refrain from driving or parking on grassed areas. Please take note of the presence of speed humps (“sleeping policemen”).

Pupil Driven Cars As parking is quite restricted in the neighbourhood of the School, students are discouraged from driving their own cars to School. No student is allowed to park on the School site. We are aware, however, that a number of students do, nevertheless, drive themselves to School and park their cars in the High Street area. Unfortunately, this new found freedom can bring risk. We know of a number of incidents over the years at other schools where students have been seriously injured or killed while using their cars during the School day. We are determined to prevent this happening at Yarm. Students of whatever age should be aware that from arriving at School in the morning to leaving at the end of the day their safety is the responsibility of the School. We must make very clear to the students that:

• Students may only use their cars to travel to School in the morning and home again at the end of the School day.

• Students must not drive their cars during the School day without the permission of the Head of Sixth Form.

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• Students must not, at any time during the School day, give lifts to other students.

We consider any breach of these rules to be a serious matter and the driver could expect to be suspended from School. We hope that parents will understand that the safety of the students is our prime concern and that you can support us in ensuring that those who do choose to drive accept the onerous responsibility that comes with this. We hope also that those who do not drive appreciate that they should not request lifts from those who do have cars and the difficult position in which this could place the driver.

School Coach Services The School runs a coach service which covers most areas. All routes are subject to change annually and information is sent out to parents before the start of the school year as well as being available on the school website. For further information, please contact the Coach Service Administrator via the School Office. Parents and students are required to agree to the conditions of travel issued with a coach pass. The School reserves the right to exclude a student from any of the coach services taking students to and from School if that student’s conduct on the coach is grossly or persistently unsatisfactory.

Bicycles A student may cycle to School but a letter from parents requesting permission must be sent to the Deputy Headmaster in advance. A cycle rack is located near to the Sixth Form Centre. All riders must make sure that their bicycle is well maintained and wear a helmet and appropriate high visibility clothing. Lights must be fitted to the bicycle and used as the weather dictates.

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SCHOOL LUNCHES All students have a School lunch under self-service arrangements in the Dining Hall. Lunch is served between 12.05 pm and 1.20pm on a rota system. Sixth Form students may move to the dining hall from 12.05 pm when they are not in lessons. There are two courses and within each there are several choices. Home-made soup is also available daily. A selection of salad fare - with students helping themselves - is one of the choices. There is always a pasta bar and the option of a baked potato. Similarly, fresh fruit and yoghurt are always available as some of the dessert items. For medical or religious reasons special diets can be provided subject to prior notice and discussion. The School tries to encourage students to think about sensible dietary habits and designs the menu selections with this in mind. Chips appear on the menu a maximum of once per week. School lunch is compulsory. It is the responsibility of parents to keep the school informed of any specific dietary allergies/requirements that their child may have.

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UNIFORM, POSSESSIONS AND INSURANCE

School Uniform Shop Purchase of uniform from the School Uniform Shop is virtually essential since even slight variation in colour or pattern in the uniform cannot be accepted. Students can of course obtain uniform without the need for parental presence. The Uniform Shop Staff can give assistance regarding sizes and purchase of correct items. Profits from the shop are used to further the aims of the School.

Lost Property All items of lost property are gathered together, washed and processed and can be claimed from the Lost Property Office/Room M9. Yellow forms informing students of items in Lost Property are put into registers. Parents can contact the School Office or the students Tutor regarding items of lost property but the students themselves should look for lost items in school or go to the Lost Property Office/M9 to collect items. Some students can be very careless over their property and we appreciate the support from parents urging care to be taken over sudent belongings and highlighting the importance of looking after things. Unclaimed items are given to charity at the end of term. Named property saves money and saves time. Lost items can only be easily returned if they are named!

All items of lost property that are handed in are washed and processed

Lost Property Opening Times Monday - Room M9 – 8.15 am – 8.45 am Tuesday - Lost Property Office - 1.00 pm – 1.15 pm Wednesday - Lost Property Office - 1.00 pm – 1.15 pm Thursday - Closed Friday - Lost Property Office - 1.00 pm – 1.15 pm Insurance and Belongings

Personal Items Students are strongly advised not to bring expensive personal items into School. The School’s position is that all personal items belonging to students should be covered by insurance arrangements made by their parents. This is because School insurance is not ‘all-risks’, it will only provide cover in very limited

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circumstances, and is subject to a single item and an overall limit. High value single items such as mobile phones must be locked in the student’s locker when not in use. Students must use their common sense in making decisions about where to leave high value items which are too large for their lockers; School is no different from any other public space in that respect.

Accident Insurance The School takes out personal accident insurance on behalf of all its students. The cover operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in and out of School. The cost is included within the fees. Full particulars of this insurance, of exclusions and so forth, may be obtained from the School Manager.

Fees Insurance The School cannot undertake to remit fees in respect of time lost from School due to illness or other cause. Several insurance companies do however offer such cover.

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YARM SCHOOL UNIFORM REGULATIONS 2020/2021 OUR UNIFORM PHILOSOPHY Yarm School prides itself on the happy and harmonious sense of community that exists within the school and in which pupils wear a uniform with pride and a sense of ease because the same overall standards and expectations apply to all pupils and students. It is our belief that upholding a strict uniform policy supports our ethos of respect for all, regardless of background or personal beliefs and promotes cohesion within the school community. We celebrate the diversity of the school community but also value the fact that by wearing a set school uniform for academic and extracurricular activities, all pupils are encouraged to participate fully and freely from the external pressures that society and culture at large can place on young people with regard to their appearance and image. High standards of dress and appearance are expected from all members of the School at all times. This includes travelling to and from School and visits or sporting fixtures. The uniform regulations differ for pupils in First to Fifth Year compared to the Sixth Form students to reflect the transition between key stages. It is not practicable to write an exhaustive list of what is and what is not acceptable. Common sense should prevail. If in doubt, parents and pupils should first seek advice from a member of the Senior Management Team. Our uniform philosophy is accepted as a condition of entry into the school and of transfer between key stages. Any deviation is due to a matter of requirement rather than choice and must be discussed with the Headmaster before accepting a place. UNIFORM REGULATIONS – All items can be purchased from the School Uniform Shop. First to Fifth Year - Boys:

• Black shoes. No boots or trainers. • Plain grey or black socks. • School grey trousers. • School pale blue shirt - top button done up. • School tie - no large knots or short lengths. • School red V neck pullover (optional). • School blazer in navy blue with a school crest on the breast pocket.

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First to Fifth Year - Girls: • Black, flat shoes (no heels). No boots or trainers. • Plain, grey or black tights. First Year girls may still wear grey socks if they

wish to do so. • School kilted skirt. • School white blouse. • School red V neck pullover (optional). • School blazer in navy blue with a school crest on the breast pocket.

Sixth Form - Boys:

• Black shoes. No boots or trainers. • Plain grey or black socks. • School Sixth Form suit in dark grey, purchased via the uniform shop. • Plain white or pale blue shirt - top button done up. • School Sixth Form tie - no large knots or short lengths. • Navy blue V neck pullover. (optional)

Sixth Form - Girls:

• Black shoes (preferably flat or with a low heel). No boots or trainers. • Plain, navy blue or black tights. • School Sixth Form suit in navy blue, purchased via the uniform shop. • Plain white or pale blue blouse. • School Sixth Form neck scarf. • Navy blue V neck pullover (optional).

APPEARANCE EXPECTATIONS HAIR:

• This should be kept clear of the face, clean and tidy, neatly cut or shaped and of natural colour.

• Extreme styles, streaked hair or obvious highlights are not acceptable. • Long hair should be tied back for PE / Games and when it could create a

safety hazard, for example, during lab work. Hair slides / grips may be worn but should be discreet.

• Nothing shorter than a number 3 grade is acceptable and excessive length will require a cut.

• Beards, moustaches and long sideburns are not permitted.

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MAKEUP: • Only Sixth Form students may wear a small amount of make-up, if it is

discreetly applied. • Make-up, coloured nail varnish or nail extensions are not permitted for

other pupils. • Henna or other tattoos are not permitted.

JEWELLERY:

• Pupils and students may wear a single stud earring in each ear, if pierced. • No other form of earring is permitted and any other piercings must be left

stud free. • Sixth Form students may also wear a discreet and appropriate amount of

jewellery. • Pupils are not permitted to wear any other jewellery. This includes any

form of necklace, bracelet or ring unless it serves a recognised medi-alert function.

• Watches, if worn, should be basic in function and not able to connect to another device / the internet.

Pupils or students who arrive in school with inappropriate haircuts may be sent home to rectify the situation and could face suspension. Anyone who does not conform to the make-up or jewellery expectations will be required to remove the make-up or jewellery item and given a uniform mark. If ear piercings are planned, parents must time these to take place in holiday periods to allow for any healing and to ensure full compliance with our expectations, including the safety regulations for games, whilst in school. OTHER GENERAL UNIFORM EXPECTATIONS

• Shirts or blouses must be tucked into the waistband, with the sleeves rolled down and buttoned.

• Ties for representative honours, e.g. at County level may only be worn on fixture days in the appropriate season. No other ties are acceptable unless the wearer has been awarded an Arkwright scholarship tie

• Skirts should be purchased to allow for growth and so that they are always of acceptable length and not too short. Waistbands must not be rolled over.

• School blazers / suit jackets must be worn to and from School, when moving between lessons, in the Dining Hall and for all formal occasions such as Assemblies, unless Summer Term Dress has been called.

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• If cold weather conditions dictate, coats may be worn over the top of the school blazer / suit jacket, but not as an alternative. Coats must be navy blue or black in colour and not bear any logos, fur or designer labels. Hats and neck scarves may also be worn but these must also be navy blue or black and preferably a Yarm School one.

• Yarm sports tops or ‘House Hoodies’ are not to be worn with the uniform as an alternative to the school pullover.

PE AND GAMES KIT:

• For PE lessons, games sessions and fixtures, only official Yarm School sports kit may be worn.

• Alternative kit is not acceptable and pupils will be required to change into Yarm kit to continue with the session.

• Pupils should only be wearing games / sports clothing when they are involved in an official activity or have specific permission from a member of staff that has been sanctioned for them to be out of normal school uniform.

• If given permission to arrive in kit on a school day, tracksuit bottoms should be worn to and around school.

• Pupils playing recreational sports at break or lunch time may change their shoes and wear trainers but must change back into their normal shoes once off the play areas and before entering buildings.

• Trainers must not be worn to or from school or around school when in uniform unless a medical note to explain the situation has been provided and signed by a parent.

SUMMER TERM CONCESSIONS: The standard uniform may be adjusted at the discretion and on the instructions of the Deputy Headmaster only:

• Pupils must keep a blazer/jacket at School but need not wear it to travel to and from School or around school. The need for blazers/jackets for formal occasions will be advised.

• Ties and collars must be properly fastened as appropriate and shirts / blouses must be tucked in.

Hot Weather Dress This will be indicated by a notice in the Senior Common Room and a board in the Stable Yard instructing pupils that Summer Dress regulations apply as follows :-

• Blazers/jackets do not need to be worn to or from school or around school. • Ties do not need to be worn around the school and shirt sleeves should be

rolled up.

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UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE SANCTIONS “Uniform Marks” can be issued by all staff. Repeated failure on the part of the pupil to respond will involve, via the Head of Year, the Head of Sixth Form or Head of Middle School as appropriate, further sanctions being applied. If necessary, pupils will be sent home until they are able to comply with the School’s expectations. PARENTS ARE RESPECTFULLY ASKED TO SUPPORT THE SCHOOL IN MAINTAINING

OUR HIGH STANDARDS.

IN ALL MATTERS REGARDING SCHOOL UNIFORM, THE DECISION OF THE DEPUTY HEADMASTER IS FINAL

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THE“FORMS PACK”FOR NEW STUDENTS

To help us to make sure that we have all the relevant information that we need to support your child in School, in addition to the information that you have provided on the application and registration forms, please can we ask the parents of all new students to complete the various forms enclosed in the envelope with this Handbook in the “Forms Pack”. Please complete and return all of the forms from the pack, that are applicable for your child, to the Headmaster’s PA, by mid- July at the latest so that they can be distributed to relevant staff and processed before the start of the new School year. The “Forms Pack” contains :-

• Health Information Form

• Sodexo Dietary Information and Allergens Form

• Instrumental Music Lessons Form

• Senior School IT & Internet Acceptable Usage Agreement

• Mobile Devices Agreement & Mobile Telephone Information Form

• Trips and Excursions Consent Form

APPENDIX A – LEAVE OF ABSENCE REQUEST

Yarm SchoolThe Friarage

Yarm TS15 9EJEmail: head@yarmschool.org

Telephone: 01642 786023

WWW.YARMSCHOOL.ORG