st margaret's school - prep handbook years 1-6 2015-16
DESCRIPTION
ÂTRANSCRIPT
1
Parents’ Handbook
2015-2016
2
Contents
4 Introduction and Staff List
5 School Contact Details and Governors
GENERAL INFORMATION
6 Absence
After School Club
7 Arrival
Beginning of the school year (The first day in September)
Breakfast Club
8 Cars and Parking
Chewing gum
Coach service
Collection of children
Collection by an authorised adult
9 Data Protection
Dogs
Fire and Evacuation Contingency Practices
Hair
Insurance
Lost Property
10 Mobile phones and electronic gadgets
Mufti Days
New Girls
11 Policies
Registration
School Publicity
Second Hand Uniform
Security
12 Sports Centre
Uniform
Valuables
Visiting the school
COMMUNICATION
13 Change of Address
Communication
Complaints
14 Communication Prompt
15 Computers and Email
Confidentiality
Connections (Parents’ Association)
Emergency Contacts
Newsletter
Parents’ Meetings
3
16 Reports
Term Diary
Website
CURRICULUM
17 Assessments
Books and Equipment
Co-Curricular Activities
Differentiation
Discovering Languages
18 Homework
21 Music
The School Day
Special Days, Visits to Museums, Galleries and other places of interest
WELFARE
23 Achievements
27 Buddies
Bullying
28 Chapel and Assemblies
25 Charity
Child Protection
Clean and Comfortable
Equal Opportunities
Food
29 House System
30 Medical
Rewards
33 School Council
34 St. Margaret’s School Rules
APPENDIX 1
36 Uniform List
APPENDIX 2
40 Frequently Asked Questions
4
Introduction
This handbook has been produced to give parents the information that will enable you to
work in partnership with the school in providing the best possible education for your
daughter. The information that might be needed is in alphabetical order for ease of use.
Additional guides and booklets connected with your daughter’s education will be sent to you
at the appropriate time. The information in this handbook is correct at the time of issue, and
parents will be kept informed of any changes that occur. However while details may alter
from time to time, policies and procedures are unlikely to change significantly, and so it is
hoped that this handbook will be a valuable source of information throughout your daughter’s
time at St. Margaret’s Preparatory School.
The Staff
Head of St. Margaret’s Preparatory
School
Mrs C Aisthorpe
Year 6 Class Teacher
Year 5 Class Teacher
Miss A Caher
Mrs D Jolley
Year 4 Class Teacher Miss M Smith
Year 3 Class Teacher Mrs L Franklin
Science Teacher
Year 2 Class Teacher
Year 1 Class Teacher
Reception Class Teacher and
EYFS Coordinator
Mrs T Walsgrove
Miss C Pares
Mrs R Carter and Mrs H Dealey
Miss D King
Teaching Assistants Mrs T Evans
Mrs S Hilton
Mrs J Newall
Mrs P Parekh
Mrs J Tabor
Mrs J Thomson
After School Club Supervisor Mrs S Dainton
Lunchtime Supervisor Mrs C Anderson
School Contact details:
5
Merry Hill Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 1DT
Preparatory School Office 020 8416 4501 (08:00-13:30)
Main School Office 020 8416 4400
Fax. No. 020 8416 4416
Nurse 020 8416 4499
IT Department 0208 4164 4569
Sports Centre 020 8416 4600
DJ Uniforms (until Dec 2015) 020 8421 9488
www.djuniforms.co.uk
45 High Street, Bushey, Herts. WD23 1DT
Pullens (from Summer 2015) 020 8954 3850
www.uniform4kids.com
48-50 Church Rd, Stanmore HA7 4AH
Email Preparatory School Office [email protected]
Email Main School Office [email protected]
Website www.stmargaretsbushey.org.com
Headmistress: Mrs RKR Hardy
Governing Body:
Miss Margaret Rudland (Chairman)
Mr David Clout
Mr Brian Coulshed
Rev. Will Gibbs
Mr Jamie Hill
Mrs Rachel Hodgson
Ms Judith Fenn
Mrs Ann Mathias
Mrs Susan Shepherd
Ms Natasha Singarayer
Mr Philip Walton
General Information
6
Absence
All pupils are expected to begin and end term on the stated dates. The School publishes
term dates well in advance, and family holidays should be arranged to coincide with the
school holidays.
Pupils should not be absent from school for non-medical reasons (family celebrations,
attending major sporting events etc.) unless prior permission has been granted by the St
Margaret’s Head of Preparatory School. Parents are asked, given the importance of taught
lessons, to consider whether it is really necessary for their daughter to be absent from
school.
Routine medical treatment (e.g. an appointment at the dentist) should, wherever possible, be
arranged outside school time; if such an appointment is essential during school hours the
permission of St Margaret’s Head of Preparatory School must be sought.
If a girl is taken ill and cannot attend school, parents should contact the Preparatory School
Office on the morning of the first day of absence. On returning to school she should bring a
note to her Class Teacher to explain the absence.
After School Club
Timings For…? Venue Costings Booking
3.30 – 3.55pm Lower
Prep only
Lower Prep
(At 3.55pm the children walk to the
Upper Prep small Dining Room.)
Free No
4.00 – 5.00pm Any Prep
child
Upper Prep Small Dining Room for
a snack and a drink, then in the
After School Club Room
Chargeable On-line*
5.00 - 6.00pm Any Prep
child
Upper Prep Hall or playground Chargeable On-line*
*Please book through the school website (PARENTS>After School Club Booking)
The After School Club is open to all children (4.00-6.00pm) in the Preparatory School and is
supervised at all times.
We provide a stimulating and healthy environment for children at the end of the school day,
where the emotional and physical wellbeing of pupils are given the highest priority.
If weather and sunlight permit, children play outside where they have access to all the
external equipment, or inside if the weather is unsuitable. Child initiated activities are
encouraged as the supervisors constantly engage with and supervise the children. When
the children are inside there are opportunities provided for arts and craft activities and child
initiated play and/or games. During the session pupils may be heard to read and/or do
homework.
Arrival
7
Children are welcome into school from 7.30am into the Breakfast Club which takes place in the Upper Prep Dining Room until 8.00am. A member of St. Margaret’s staff supervises this club. Lower Prep: Children are welcome into school from 8.00am where they will be met
at the front door of the Lower Prep house by a member of staff.
Please do not bring your child before 8.00am as there is no
supervision before this time. Registration is at 8.30am.
Upper Prep Children are welcome into school from 8.00am when will be
supervised by a member of staff. Please do not bring your child before
8.00am as there is no supervision before this time. Registration is at
8.30am.
Late Arrival
Please note that registration takes place at 8.30am to ensure a prompt start to assembly
At 8.45am.
Lower Prep: If a Reception – Year 2 child arrives at school after 8.45am she should
go straight to her classroom.
Upper Prep: If a Year 3 – 6 child arrives at school after 8.45am she should go
straight to the Preparatory School Office and be signed in before
going to her classroom.
Breakfast Club
Timings For…? Venue Supervised
by
Costings Booking
7.30 – 8.00am Any Prep
child
Dining Room Breakfast
Club staff
Chargeable On-line*
8.00 – 8.30am Reception
– Year 2
Years 3 - 6
Lower Prep
Upper Prep
School staff
School staff
Free
Free
No
No
*Please book through the school website – General Information – Useful Information –
Breakfast Club booking – log in with your parent portal username and password. You
will immediately receive a receipt once you have paid.
The Breakfast Club is open to all children in the Preparatory School.
At 7:30am children are met in the Upper Prep Dining Room by the Breakfast Club
Supervisor. The following options are offered to the pupils: milk, water, hot chocolate, fruit
juice, yoghurt, cereal, croissants with butter and/or jam, toast, bread and fruit.
Games, books, paper and colouring pencils is available for children who finish their breakfast
early.
8
At 7.55am the supervisor escorts the younger children across to Lower Prep where they are
then supervised by Lower Prep staff. Upper Prep children are supervised by Upper Prep
staff.
Cars and Parking Space is limited on the school site and parents visiting the school are asked to park in the Sports Centre car park. Parents are asked to park considerately, especially when dropping off or collecting pupils. Congestion caused by inconsiderate parking can compromise pupil safety.
Coach Service – for girls in Year 3 upwards
The coaches are operated by Minibus Executive Travel or by the school itself. Coaches
arrive at St Margaret’s School at approximately 8.15am and depart at 4.20pm. Girls using
the coaches are expected to wear seat belts and behave sensibly.
Occasional use of the coach service, for example when a girl is taking a friend home, must
be arranged in advance through the School Office; a small fee will be charged. Please
contact the School Office if you require further information about the coach service.
Collection of Children
Lower Prep: The Lower Prep finishes at 3.30pm unless specified on the school
calendar.
Years 1 and 2: If your child is attending a Co-Curricular Activity, she will need to be
collected from the room where it has taken place. Children not
attending a Co-Curricular Activity but who are at school until 3.55pm,
may be collected from the Lower Prep Hall, or if it is warm, the
playground. At 3.55pm children will be taken to the Upper Prep small
Dining Room with the After School Club.
Upper Prep: The Upper Prep finishes at 4.00pm, unless specified on the school
calendar. Please collect from the Upper Prep playground.
If your child is attending a Co-Curricular Activity she will need to be
collected from the room where it has taken place.
If she has not been collected when the Co-Curricular Activity finishes,
she will be taken to the After School Club.
Collection Arrangements By An Authorised Adult
At the beginning of each academic year you will be asked to complete and return to the Prep
Office a Collection Arrangements Form, indicating who you give permission to to collect your
child from school. If the details on this form change, please let us know, as we will only
release your daughter to an adult who you have told us has permission. We do understand
that arrangements may change at short notice (e.g. if your daughter is having a play date
with a friend). In this case please would you either:
● Telephone or email the Prep School office (between 8.00am and 1.30pm) or the
Main School Office (from 1.30pm – 5.30pm)
● Write who is collecting your child on the Collection Chart in the Lower Prep front
hallway (Lower Prep parents only)
● Write a note to your daughter’s Class Teacher
9
For regular arrangements, the Class Teacher needs to have this information in writing only
once. If we are not told of a change in arrangements we will refer to the Collection
Arrangements Form and if necessary a phone call will be made to you, the child’s parent, if
we are at all unsure of the person collecting your child.
If a child is not collected by 4pm
If a child is not collected by 4.00pm (and a prior arrangement to go to a Co-Curricular activity
or the After School Club has not been made) the following procedure will be implemented:
1. If a child is not collected by 4pm she will join the After School Club and the cost will
be added to the school bill.
2. At 6:00pm the child’s parents will be telephoned and an arrangement made.
3. If the parent will be at the school after 6:15pm the pupil will be taken to the Senior
School Dining Room to be supervised by a member of the Boarding Staff.
4. We will telephone parents to inform them of the transfer (leaving a message if
necessary).
5. We will inform the Head of the Preparatory School.
6. We will alert police if the child is still not picked by 6.30pm and we cannot contact the
parents.
7. We will ascertain why the parents did not pick up the pupil on time.
Data Protection The school has a formal Data Protection Policy which is consistent with the Data Protection
Act 1998.
Dogs
For hygiene and safety reasons dogs are not allowed on the Preparatory School grounds.
Fire and Evacuation Contingency Practices All children and staff participate in evacuation practices at least once a term. If you are at
school and the fire alarm sounds you should make your way to the field in Lower Prep or the
grass area by the pond in Upper Prep.
Hair Girls who have hair longer than shoulder length must have it tied back neatly in a ponytail or
plait with a discrete, plain black or navy blue hair tie, hairband, clip and/or scrunchie.
Insurance Please note that the school does not provide insurance for girls’ personal items, including
cash. However, included within the tuition fees is insurance against accidents with additional
dental protection.
Lost Property Girls are responsible for their own possessions. All items of uniform and school equipment
must be named so that if misplaced they can be returned. Named items will be returned to
their owner. At the end of each academic year unclaimed items will be disposed of.
Mobile Phones and Electronic Gadgets Preparatory School pupils are not permitted to have mobile phones or electronic gadgets at
school or on visits out of school.
10
The exception is for pupils in Years 3 – 6 who travel to or from school on a school coach. In
this case the mobile phone will be switched off and handed into the Preparatory School
Office on arrival to school and collected by the child at home time (the phone is left at the
owner’s own risk). Pupils are not allowed to use their mobile phones on site at any time
before, during or after the school day.
A mobile phone brought to school without permission will be confiscated and the parent /
guardian will be informed so they may collect it. If a pupil needs to contact her parents or
carers, she will be allowed to use a school phone.
The school will consider any of the following unacceptable use of the mobile phone and a
serious breach of the school’s behaviour policy, resulting in sanctions being taken:
● photographing or filming staff or other pupils without their knowledge or permission
● bullying, harassing or intimidating staff or pupils by the use of text, email or
multimedia messaging, sending inappropriate messages or posts to social
networking or blogging sites, refusing to switch a phone off or hand over the phone at
the request of a member of staff. Where it is deemed necessary to examine the
contents of a mobile phone this will be done by a designated member of staff. The
action will be properly recorded including the time, who was present and what was
found.
● using the mobile phone outside school hours to intimidate or upset staff and pupils
will be considered a breach of these guidelines in the same way as unacceptable use
which takes place in school time.
The content on the mobile phone (e.g. messages, emails, pictures, videos and sound files)
will be shown to a teacher when requested, if we suspect it has been used for an
unacceptable purpose.
Pupils and parents should be aware that serious misuse may lead to the confiscation of the
mobile phone, communication with parents and the imposition of other sanctions, up to and
including exclusion from school. In some instances an offence may have to be reported to
the police. Should an incident occur then school will also need to ensure that support is
provided for the victim.
For more information please refer to our Acceptable Use Policy (found on the website).
Mufti Days Mufti Days are non-uniform days, usually held on the last day of a half term or term. These
are days that are usually themed, e.g. wear House colour. Girls are encouraged to bring in a
small donation for a particular charity. Please see the calendar for dates of mufti days.
New Girls When new girls arrive at St. Margaret’s School they will have one or two buddies whose role
it is to guide them around the school and make sure that in the first few weeks they know
what to do, where to go and what equipment is needed, and most importantly, that they are
happy and settle in well.
Policies
11
Policies can be viewed on the school website. The following policies and procedures are
available, as hard copies, from the school on request:
● Admissions
● Anti-bullying
● Bursaries and Scholarships
● Child Protection
● Behaviour Management (including discipline and exclusions, rewards and sanctions).
● Curriculum (including provision for those pupils for whom English is an additional
language).
● Health & Safety
● Health and safety on school visits
● The Complaints Procedure
Registration (morning and afternoon) All pupils are registered at 8.30am and at the beginning of the afternoon. Any pupil arriving
in school after morning registration is counted as late. Lower Prep children should go straight
to class and those in Upper Prep should sign in at the Preparatory School Office on arrival. If
your daughter is unable to attend school please telephone or email the Prep School office on
the morning of each day’s absence as we will call you if we have not heard anything. For all
absences a note should be given explaining the nature of the absence and that the child is
well enough to return to school.
School Publicity Photographs of your daughter(s) will be used in school publicity: in the Prospectus, the
School Calendar, the School Newsletter, the local press, the School Website, video
recordings etc., unless you have indicated in writing that this is not to happen.
Second Hand Uniform Second hand uniform is available to buy in the Prep School Office. If you have any
unwanted, good quality school uniform, we would gratefully receive these in the Prep School
office.
Security All visitors to the school should report to the School Office in Senior School or the
Preparatory School Office. Authorised visitors will be given a security pass. Members of staff
will challenge any person not wearing a pass. If a girl sees anybody who is not wearing a
pass and they do not recognise them as a member of staff they should report this to the
nearest member of staff. All external doors are accessible only by putting the correct code
into the keypad. The Upper Preparatory School gate is closed from 8.30am – 4.00 pm for
security.
Sports Centre The Sports Centre is in use throughout the school day for lessons and Co-Curricular
Activities. All parents of current pupils of the school are entitled to become members of the
Sports Centre. Please contact the Sports Centre Manager for further information on 020
8416 4600.
Uniform Please refer to Appendix 1
12
Smart school uniform is an important part of the ethos of the school. Pupils are expected to
wear the uniform correctly and it is also expected that uniform items will be routinely
replaced when they become worn or shabby, or when they have been outgrown.
The way that the girls feel and look in their uniform is a key priority as a smart uniform
reflects a professional and focused attitude and strengthens our identity as a school. Girls in
particular need to feel good about themselves in their uniform and allow pupils to be
confident and comfortable as they get on with their learning. Our uniform reflects our high
expectations both in and outside the classroom.
Valuables Large sums of money and other valuable items should not be brought into school. It is
recommended that any valuable personal possessions that are brought to school are clearly
marked and insured under an ‘All Risks’ policy. All valuables should be deposited with the
Preparatory School Office for safe keeping during the day.
The school is not able to accept responsibility for the insurance of girls’ personal
effects. Please also see the note on insurance.
Visiting the School Parents who need to speak to a member of staff should telephone or email the Preparatory
School Office first to make an appointment. When visiting the school to meet with a member
of staff parents should sign in at the Preparatory School Office, or if visiting the Lower Prep,
ring the front door bell.
Communication
13
Calendar Card
All planned school dates are published in the Term Diary which you will receive at the
beginning of each new term. Please refer to this when planning your diaries. Updates to this
will be published in our Friday Newsletter.
Change of Address
Parents are asked to inform the School Office immediately, in writing, of any change of
address, telephone number(s) or e-mail address(es) so that the school’s records can be kept
up to date. It is of the utmost importance that the school has daytime and evening numbers
(including, if relevant, mobile numbers) fax and email details in case of emergency.
Communication
The school believes that it is vitally important to keep parents fully informed of both their
daughter’s progress and what is going on in the school at large. If a Class Teacher is
concerned about a girl’s behaviour or progress he/she will contact the parents, similarly
parents should contact their daughter’s Class Teacher if they have any concerns. All
Preparatory School parents receive a written report for downloading at the end of the
Christmas and Summer Terms. There is also a Parents’ Evening during the Autumn and
Spring Terms. (See the section on Parents’ Meetings)
The Headmistress’s End of Term letter informs parents of achievements, changes and
coming events. More information is given in our Preparatory School weekly newsletters and
a weekly e-bulletin of school events is emailed to all parents.
Complaints
If at any time parents have cause for concern or occasion for complaint, they should raise
the matter with the school as soon as possible. All concerns or complaints will be taken
seriously and treated with respect, and the school will respond promptly. Parents should feel
free to telephone, or to write, with details of the issue that concerns them. In the first
instance it may be best to address a concern to the member of staff most closely involved
with the matter at issue (e.g. the Class Teacher, the Head of the Preparatory School or the
Headmistress). A copy of the Complaints Procedure is on the website, or a hard copy is
available on request.
Communication Prompt (Preparatory School)
Please make an
appointment to see the
Headmistress
14
For any financial queries, please liaise with the Bursary.
Computers and Email Every girl is given access to the School network, the internet and in Years 5 and 6 e-mail.
FOR A MORE SERIOUS
CONCERN
Please make an appointment
to see the Head of the
Preparatory School
Please see your child’s Class
Teacher
If you would like to discuss
your child’s academic
progress or pastoral needs…
For a medical issue…
Liaise with Sister Eales
For a food issue…
15
St Margaret’s has an Acceptable Use Policy and our students and their parents are required
to sign the policy. The full document is issued with the agreement form for our students to
keep. We take the view that ICT has the potential to enrich pupils’ learning in new and
exciting ways. However, with the provision and use of ICT go responsibilities for ensuring
that its use is appropriate and user confidentiality is maintained. Abuse of our ICT
infrastructure and or the internet will be dealt with in line with the school’s Behaviour
Management Policy.
Nearly all School communication to parents is by email, therefore it is vitally important that
you inform the School Office of any changes to email addresses. Please also inform the
School Office if you do not have email at home and require a hard copy.
Confidentiality
Information about pupils, regardless of age, is confidential. On occasions it may be
necessary for a member of staff to pass on confidential information to parents, or other
members of staff, if it is considered to be in a girl’s best interests or necessary for the
protection of other members of the school community. Wherever possible any information is
passed on with the girl’s consent. See also the section on Data Protection.
Connections (Parents’ association)
Connections is the St Margaret’s parents’ association. All parents are automatically
members and are encouraged to give their active support to events designed to enable them
to socialise together as well as to raise funds for school projects and charities. Events
include BBQs, Pamper Evenings, Christmas Market and May Fayre. A committee is elected
annually at the A.G.M. Any parent who wishes to become involved can contact the
committee through the School Office or by emailing [email protected].
Emergency Contacts
If we are unable to contact parents directly when we consider there is a need to do so, then
persons named as emergency contacts on the Pupil Information Form will be contacted. It is
essential therefore that these contacts are reasonably local to school, and are prepared to
act in “loco parentis”. It is important that emergency numbers are correct and that the school
is advised immediately of any changes.
Newsletter
This is available each Friday on the school website and includes more detailed information
including weekly news items and achievements, plus reminders and notes about upcoming
events.
Parents’ Meetings There are two Parents’ Evenings during each academic year, to which parents and/or
guardians are invited to meet their daughter’s Class Teacher. These are usually in the
Autumn and Spring Terms. The Autumn Term Parents’ Evening is with your daughter’s
Class Teacher and details how she is settling in to the new term. In the Spring Term you will
have the opportunity to again meet with your daughter’s Class Teacher, plus, if she is in
Years 3 - 6, meet with the subject specialists who teach her.
Reports
16
Full reports are available for downloading by parents twice a year – December and July.
Term Diary All planned school dates are published in the Term Diary which you will receive at the
beginning of each new term. Please refer to this when planning your diaries. Updates to this
will be published in our Friday Newsletter
Website
The school’s website can be found on www.stmargaretsbushey.co.uk. Lots of useful
information can be found here including the latest news, school events, school policies and
other school documentation. In the case of unusual circumstances, for example heavy
snowfalls, up to date information is posted on the website.
There is a Parents’ Area containing more in-house information which can be accessed by
using the parents’ portal in the top right hand corner of the website:
Username: Parent
Password: smb4u
If you have a problem accessing the Parents’ Area or getting into your parent portal, please
contact the IT department.
Curriculum
Books and Equipment
17
Each pupil is provided with textbooks, exercise books and paper. Books are costly items and
pupils who lose them will be required to pay for replacements. Textbooks that are damaged
beyond normal wear and tear will also have to be replaced.
Co-Curricular Activities
All girls have access to a wide range of Co-Curricular activities. There are many
opportunities to perform in the Preparatory School Orchestra and Choir (from Year 3) and in
regular school concerts and plays. For children in Years 3 – 6 there is a daily, free
Homework Club for girls to do their Homework, work quietly or read between 4.00- 5.00pm.
For the chargeable activities, one term’s notice needs to be given to the activity teacher if
your daughter is to stop participating in the club.
Differentiation Differentiation is the process by which teachers plan for the differences in pupils needs to
ensure all children have the best possible chance of learning. Our teachers are experts at
this and aim to provide a range of methods, in and/or out of lesson times – practical support,
human support and through individual or small group tasks. If a child requires further support
our Learning Support department will assess, plan for and will provide one to one or small
group tuition.
More Able and Talented
It is important that every pupil is encouraged and supported to achieve their potential with
particular attention paid to achievement. We cater for all abilities and differentiate the work
according to individual needs, stretching the children, taking them out of their comfort zone,
whilst enabling them to learn within a nurturing environment.
We aim to provide the highest standard of education enabling each girl to achieve to the very
best of her potential through promoting high standards and academic achievement. We
ensure that every girl has every opportunity to thrive and flourish, through fostering
individuality, developing confidence and encouraging a desire to learn in a warm, supportive
and nurturing environment. Throughout their time in the Preparatory School children are
taught mostly by their Class Teacher. Subject specialist teachers teach:
Reception to Year 6: Music, PE
Years 1 and 2: Violin, Speech and Drama
Years 1 to Year 6: Modern Foreign Languages, Swimming
Years 5 and 6: ICT
Year 6: A set Maths, Technology
We regularly monitor, evaluate and use a range of diagnostic assessments to enable every
girl to achieve her potential. Therefore great care is taken to ensure that all children are able
to develop their strengths and overcome their weaknesses, through differentiated lessons.
Our Teaching Assistants work with individuals or small groups to support or enrich the
learning. A range of in school workshops and out of school visits enhance and consolidate
the curriculum.
Discovering Languages
18
Our programme for teaching Modern Foreign Languages arouses an interest and leads to
wider cultural awareness than if the children learned one language. It adds value to literacy
work and contributes to their general communication skills. Through learning a variety of
languages the children gain a strong foundation in how language works, how languages
differ but also resemble each other and uses terminology that is required to understand
grammar and language structures at an appropriately simple level. Pupils clearly enjoy
learning a variety of languages throughout their time in the Preparatory School and gain an
appreciation of other languages and cultures.
The following list is subject to change:
Year 1 Mandarin Year 2 French Year 3 German Year 4 Spanish
Year 5 Spanish and Latin Year 6 Mandarin and Year 7 MFL preparation
Homework Homework should be a reinforcement of the learning experience at school and the tasks set should be manageable, worthwhile and achievable, needing a minimum of parental input. All work sent home will have been taught in lessons. If your daughter struggles or takes longer than recommended with any aspect of her homework, we ask that you do not help her, unless specified by her teacher. Please write a note in the Homework Diary so that her teacher can spend further time supporting her in school. Aims
● To aid each pupil’s progress towards achieving her full academic potential by
setting homework on a regular basis and on an increasing ratio, from Reception class
to Year 6, to adequately prepare children for the demands and responsibilities of
future schooling.
● To provide an enjoyable and purposeful supplement to class work.
● To provide an opportunity for the child to practise what has been learnt in class,
including the development of the basic skills e.g. tables, spellings, independent
research skills etc.
● To provide a practical opportunity for the child to begin to take responsibility for
organising their own workload.
All girls in Years 2 to 6 are given a homework timetable at the beginning of each academic
year. A Homework Diary is provided in which they should record the details of what work has
been set and when it is to be handed in. This may also be used as a communication link
between home and school.
Girls in Years 3 - 6 may stay at school to do homework in the daily, free supervised
Homework Club which begins at 4.00pm and parents may collect at any time until the club
finishes at 5.00pm.
The following are guidelines and will change according to what is being taught in class and
as the year progresses. If a child completes her homework early, she should be encouraged
to read, follow current affairs (suitable to her age), undertake puzzles or creative activities.
Lower Prep (Reception – Year 2)
The children may be asked to complete any incidental pieces of work at times.
19
Year 1
Reading each day - approx. 5 minutes
Weekly spellings each day - approx. 5 minutes
Spellings are tested weekly
Friday Handwriting - approx. 5 minutes
Maths - approx. 5 minutes
Year 2
Reading each day - approx. 5 – 10 minutes
Weekly spellings each day - approx. 5 minutes
Spellings are tested weekly
Monday - Thursday English or Maths – approx. 15 minutes
Friday Word Problems - maximum 30 minutes (Your child may need some help from an
adult.)
Upper Prep (Years 3 – 6) These are guidelines and may change according to what is
being taught in class and as the year progresses. Homework tasks may include the
occasional extended piece of work in curriculum subjects. Bond books may be occasionally
given as homework. Please note that some of the material in these books may not have
been recently taught. If your daughter struggles with a question please tell her to leave it
then write a note in her Homework Diary.
Year 3
Homework is expected to take a maximum of 45 minutes per day; however some children
will complete the set tasks in less time.
Reading each day
Times Tables each day for a weekly test
Monday Spellings are tested weekly and spelling homework
Tuesday Maths
Wednesday English
Thursday Science
Friday Maths or English
Homework tasks may include the occasional extended piece of work in curriculum subjects.
Year 4
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Homework is expected to take a maximum of 45 minutes per day; however some children
will complete the set tasks in less time.
Reading each day
Times Tables each day for a weekly test
Monday Spellings are tested weekly (with sentences)
Tuesday Maths
Wednesday Science
Thursday English
Friday Maths or English
Homework tasks may include the occasional extended piece of work in curriculum subjects.
Year 5
Homework is expected to take a maximum of 1 hour per day; however some children will
complete the set tasks in less time.
Reading each day
Monday Maths
Tuesday English spelling
Wednesday English or Maths
Thursday History or Geography
Friday Science and Dictation
Homework tasks may include the occasional extended piece of work in curriculum subjects.
Year 6
Homework is expected to take a maximum of 1 hour per day; however some children will
complete the set tasks in less time.
Reading each day
Monday Maths
Tuesday Maths
Wednesday English or other subject
Thursday Science + spellings
Friday Maths or English
Music
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The school has a long-established tradition of high quality music making. The main aim is to
stimulate a life-long enjoyment of music by encouraging as many girls as possible to
participate in musical performance, both choral and instrumental. All musicians perform
regularly both within and beyond the school. Children in Years 3 - 6 participate in the
Preparatory School Choir.
As part of the curriculum in Years 1 and 2 girls learn the violin. Children who have achieved
a certain standard in their chosen instrument may be invited to join the Preparatory School
Orchestra.
Instrumental Lessons All children are encouraged to play a musical instrument from Year 3 upwards and lessons
are arranged on a ‘rolling’ timetable so that children do not miss the same curriculum lesson
each week. Payment will be required for missed lessons due to a child’s absence.
Instruments may be hired from the school. There is a Preparatory School Orchestra which
instrumentalists are invited to join. Lessons and timetables are organised by the Director of
Music.
Special Days, Visits, Talks And Workshops In The Preparatory School Girls are regularly given the opportunity to visit places of interest, theatres, galleries and
museums in London and elsewhere – visits are chosen to link with particular areas of study.
Separate consent forms are sent to parents for each individual trip. Details of approximate
departure and return times will be circulated in advance. The cost of any trips incurred during
a term will be added to the school bill for the following term. The School strives to keep the
costs of all school trips to a minimum.
Please note that the table below is a guide and may be subject to change.
Autumn Term Pantomime Visit - December Rec – Year 2
Harvest Festival - Chapel Service Rec – Year 6
Internet Safety Talks
Mufti Days
Environmental Day
Autumn Book Fair
Bonfire Party
St. Margaret’s Day and Grandparents’ Tea
Christmas Productions
Christmas Chapel Service
Kestrel Grove Nursing Home Year 2
Author Workshop Years 3 - 6
Shakespeare Workshop
Shakespeare Visit
Chess Tournament Selected
children
Year 6 Maths Challenge
Spring Term Science Workshop Rec + Year 1
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Author Workshop Rec – Year 2
Sponsored Spelling Week Rec – Year 6
Mufti Days
Valentine’s Disco
Skipping Workshops
Mothers’ Day Assembly Rec – Year 6
London Visit Year 2
Verulamium Visit, St. Albans Year 3
Science Museum Year 4
Victorian Day, St. Albans Year 5
World War II Day, RAF Hendon Year 6
Chess Tournament Selected
children
Summer Term Lower Prep Outing Rec – Year 2
Teddy Bears’ Picnic Rec – Year 2
Summer Book Fair Rec – Year 6
Sports Day (in school)
Celebration of Achievements
Summer Picnic
Ballet Presentation Rec – Year 6
Whipsnade Zoo Year 3
St. Albans Year 4
Reveley Lodge, Bushey Years 5 + 6
PGL Residential, Osmington Bay Year 6
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Welfare
Achievements
Teachers are aware that nothing succeeds like success and work is differentiated to ensure
that the whole curriculum is accessible to all children and that there are constant
opportunities for success. Each Friday there is a Celebration Assembly where we celebrate
successes and the number of Commendations and Award Marks each girl has received
during the week. This assembly is also an opportunity to present certificates and trophies
that have been awarded in out of School activities.
Behaviour
Parents are the first educators of our children and in partnership with parents the emphasis
must always be on promoting good behaviour. It is important that pupils and parents are fully
aware of the St Margaret’s Preparatory School high expectations for pupil conduct and
support us, through working collaboratively, as we all want the best for our children. Parental
cooperation also forms part of the contract between the school and parents of pupils at the
school.
High standards of behaviour and work are expected at all times. Courtesy, good manners
and consideration for others, together with self-discipline and a proper respect for authority
and safety, are encouraged at all times and are important for our school to be a true, caring
community.
TREAT OTHERS AS WE WOULD WISH TO BE TREATED
At St Margaret’s we are proud of the very good behaviour by most of our children most of the
time and firmly believe that children want to behave. Through making class rules at the
beginning of each academic year, following school rules and having reminders in
discussions, lessons and assemblies all children are frequently reminded of our high
expectations.
What is good behaviour?
· Treating others as I would wish to be treated
· Knowing the difference between right and wrong
· Being kind and caring
· Being respectful and polite
· Conducting myself with maturity
· Working to the best of my ability
· Leading by example
· Recognising there are limits and rules
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· Acting responsibly in a variety of situations
· Accepting responsibility for my actions
· Treating property and the environment with care and respect
How do we encourage good behaviour?
Inherent through all aspects of school life we consistently, continuously and positively:
· promote a trusting and caring environment where good examples are set and where
fairness and respect play important parts
· promote a calm, industrious and caring environment that encourages good
behaviour to emerge naturally rather than demands it to be imposed
· present role models that illustrate trust, respect, openness, consistency and fairness
· enable open communication and dialogue for all
· recognise that each day is new and brings its own fresh start
· praising and reward
· providing opportunities to be ‘caught being good’
· promote self-control, taking responsibility and being accountable for our actions
· teach pupils that actions and choices have consequences
· allow pupils to develop positive attitudes and abilities
Parents’ Role
We support the parents’ role as prime educators of their child and we work together
to support them in their role.
· School and parents should work together to set consistent standards which are in
keeping with our School Aims.
. Please chat with your daughter’s Class Teacher if you are concerned about
something your child tells you about school. A small concern is best dealt with quickly
before it becomes a big problem.
· Any concern should be dealt with by the School as we have the big picture and
consistently support all pupils with appropriate strategies.
· Encourage parents to positively discuss daily events with their daughter and keep
discussions between the School, your daughter and you.
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What is unacceptable behaviour?
· Hurting others
· Insolence
· Using bad language
· Using racist language or behaviour
· Bullying
· Damaging property
· Putting others at risk
Putting this all into practice…How do we deal with unacceptable behaviour?
Promoting good, respectful behaviour is inherent in all aspects of school life. Understandably
there will be slight variations in staff acceptance and tolerance of pupils’ behaviour in class
depending on the nature of the class and content of the lesson or location. However it is
essential that good behaviour allows constructive teaching and learning, therefore all staff
have a duty to ensure that behaviour which adversely affects teaching and learning or other
aspect of school life will not tolerated. Through regular discussions at meetings, all staff will
endeavour to ensure that sanctions are applied consistently and fairly, thus ensuring positive
attitudes and behaviour. No sanctions will be humiliating or degrading. Sanctions will be
applied when rewards have failed, or where it is necessary in the circumstances to show
appropriate disapproval. For EYFS children, the EYFS coordinator will deal with
misdemeanours.
TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WOULD WISH TO BE TREATED
For Pupils in Reception – Year 2
Sanctions Pupils and parents will be notified that appropriate action will be taken against those who are
in breach of the acceptable use guidelines following the school’s behaviour policy.
Sanctions might include:
● A verbal reprimand
● A reminder of expected behaviour
● 1 or 2 minutes deducted from Golden Time or break time
Sad Notes may be given for the following:
● Persistent unkindness, rudeness or intentionally hurting another child
● After repeated reminders have been given
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● Rudeness/insolence/disobedience at any time
This list is not exhaustive.
For Pupils in Years 3 – 6
LEVEL 1 - for minor misbehaviour beyond a simple ‘ticking off’. These will be logged
on the Blue Level 1 Consequence Record.
Behaviour - the following are examples and do not detail all misbehaviour
Consequence
behaviour not expected of a St Margaret’s girl
Consequences will generally relate to the misbehaviour and could include:
● loss of a cube / minutes in Golden Time (Year 2)
● loss of a break time ● written explanation of misbehaviour - what is
was and why it happened (during a lunchtime)
In Monday assemblies the number of Level 1’s will be mentioned.
repeated calling out in lessons / interrupting / disrupting others
running in the building
leaving an area without permission
going out of the agreed boundary e.g. behind the fence
not handing in homework on time
repeated talking in assembly / dining room
not having the correct equipment
inappropriate behaviour in the dining room
LEVEL 2 - for repeated or more serious misbehaviour. These will be logged on the
Orange Level 2 Consequence Record.
Behaviour - the following are examples and do not detail all misbehaviour
Consequence
repeated Level 1’s Consequences will generally relate to the misbehaviour and could include:
● removal from class ● Lower Prep ‘Sad Note’ home ● Upper Prep House Mark
The Head of the Prep will be informed Your parents will be informed by your Class Teacher and expected to support the School. In Monday assemblies the number of House Marks will be mentioned. You will be expected to make amends.
rudeness, including bad language
unkindness
minor physical assaults
deliberate acts of misbehaviour
work not of the required standard
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not following school rules
several Level 1’s in a short amount of time
not handing in homework 3 times in a term
not bringing in correct PE kit 3 times in a term
LEVEL 3 - These will be logged on your School file.
Behaviour - the following are examples and do not detail all misbehaviour
Consequence
bullying Meeting with the Head of the Prep School / Headmistress, yourself and your parents. You will be expected to make amends and you may face suspension, or in severe cases, exclusion.
racism
theft
assault
violence
vandalism
repeated Level 2’s
Buddies
When a new child joins St. Margaret’s Preparatory School, she is assigned buddies. These
are carefully chosen children who look after and befriend the new child in their her first
couple of weeks at school or until she has settled in. Often this leads to friendships that last
over many years.
Bullying
The school does not tolerate any form of bullying. There is a strict anti-bullying policy.
Throughout their time at the school girls are taught to respect one another and to develop a
constructive and cooperative approach to the needs of others in the community.
Understanding and adhering to the Anti-Bullying Policy is an important part of this
development. (A copy of the Anti-Bullying Policy is on the website and a hard copy is
available to parents on request.)
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Chapel and Assemblies
The School is a Christian foundation, and chapel services and assemblies are an important
and regular part of school life. All girls are expected to attend weekday assemblies and
special services such as the Harvest Thanksgiving Service, St Margaret’s Day and the Carol
Service.
Chapel services and assemblies are designed to accommodate the values shared by all
faiths within a framework of tolerance and respect for all beliefs. The views and practices of
all major religions are recognised and girls of all faiths are encouraged to contribute to
services.
Charity
It is our aim to foster an awareness of the wider world and to encourage all our girls to take
positive action to help those less fortunate than themselves. The school raises money
throughout the year for various charities using a variety of means which might include non-
uniform days, cake sales etc. The charities we have supported in recent years include the
Watford New Hope Trust, Jeans 4 Genes, Help for Heroes, Michael Green Foundation,
Great Ormond Street Hospital, Save the Children Nepal Earthquake Fund and the Animal
Welfare Trust.
Child Protection
The school has a formal Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy which is consistent with
the guidelines issued by the DfES and the Boarding Schools Association. A copy can be
found on the website.
Clean and comfortable (for children in Lower Prep)
On rare occasions, “little accidents” and unforeseen incidents can occur, which require staff
to ensure that a child is clean and comfortable afterwards. This potentially involves
undressing and physical intervention, beyond that of normal daily communication between
staff and pupils. In order that we can deal with these occasions sensitively and quickly, we
require you to give your consent for staff to change underwear and clothes, along with
helping a child to wash if such action is considered necessary in their professional
judgement. Within the Joining Pack there is a form to complete and return to school when
your child begins in Lower Prep only.
Equal Opportunities The school is committed to securing equality of opportunity through the creation of an
environment in which all pupils are respected as individuals. This commitment is shared by
all pupils, staff and governors.
Food The cost of snacks and lunch is included in the school fees.
*Breakfast Club (chargeable): A continental breakfast is provided.
Snacks: Fresh fruit and a drink
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Lunch: Hot dishes, salad and a choice of puddings (including
fruit) are provided each day. There is also an option
suitable for vegetarians.
Co-Curricular Activities: A snack and a drink is provided.
(4.00 – 5.00pm)
*After School Club (chargeable): An afternoon tea of sandwiches, cake, fruit and a drink
are provided.
We aim to provide wholesome, homemade meals that are nutritious and of a high quality. If your daughter is unable to eat certain foods due to a medical condition or religious reasons please inform the Head of St. Margaret’s Preparatory School, as well as indicating this on the medical form. Girls are discouraged from bringing snacks into school.
Birthday cake may be brought into school for your daughter’s class to enjoy. Please ensure
that there are no traces of nuts.
Cake Sales – As a way of raising money for House charities we hold regular cake sales. We
therefore ask parents to donate nut free cakes which are then sold in school. Please see the
calendar for more information.
Nut allergies
No establishment can ever be totally nut free. However, we strive to ensure that pupils avoid contact with any nuts at school. If cakes or treats are brought into school for birthdays or as a donation for a cake sale we ask that care be given to avoid bringing any form of nut within the product. Items should always be given to a member of staff. If you do not wish for your child to have consumable treats in school, the Head of St. Margaret’s Preparatory School should be informed. House System Girls are assigned to a House on arrival and will remain members of that House until they
leave. There are House competitions throughout the year and the results of these together
with commendations and Award Marks, contribute to the award of the ‘Best House’ trophy at
the end of the academic year.
Each House meets every half term to discuss and help organise charitable or collaborative
events. These meetings are organised by each House Captain and Vice-Captain, supported
by staff.
How You Can Support Your Child
● Be positive, encourage and praise.
● Hear your child read regularly.
● Read a bedtime story to your child whenever possible.
● Verbal games in the car – I spy, Granny goes to market (for memory), maths
questions, spellings – fun activities etc.
● Play board games.
● Encourage children’s imaginative play.
● Please check your child’s school bag on a daily basis.
● Encourage good manners especially at the table.
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● Allow time and space for your child to do their homework independently.
● If your child is tired at the end of a day at school do not worry about making them
read - let them have an early night and relax!
● Regular visits to the library.
● Praise, praise, praise!
● Encourage, encourage, encourage!
● Enjoy your children and have fun!
Medical We have a fully qualified full time registered nurse on site and most staff have an up to date
First Aid certificate with a few staff having a Paediatric First Aid certificate. The School
Medical Centre is open during term-time. Parents are asked to complete a medical
questionnaire on entry to the school, including vaccination information. A Medical Update
form will also be sent out annually, please ensure you complete this and return it to school
as soon as possible in order for the school nurse to be kept up to date with any changes to
your daughter’s health. Please keep us informed of any updates when necessary.
New parents: Please complete the medical form in the joining pack. Please speak with the
school nurse if you wish to discuss the form.
Administering medication: The school nurse must be informed when any girl is taking
prescribed medication. If you wish for your daughter to be administered pain relief in school
please would you complete the form (in either Lower or Upper Prep) or you may either write
a letter, email ([email protected]) stating your daughter’s:
● name,
● the reason for the medication
● name of the medication to be given
● the time the medication should be given.
Medication will be given by the school nurse or delegated by her to a member of staff.
If your child needs to take antibiotics during the school day it must be bought in to school in
the original container with the Pharmacist label attached to the container and the child’s
name clearly visible. The school nurse will administer the medication, or will give permission
for a member of staff to give the prescribed dose.
Medication or first aid treatment given to any child will be recorded immediately in the first
aid folder in either Upper or Lower Prep and if it is necessary you will either receive a
treatment form via your daughter on the day, or if more severe, a phone call from a member
of staff or the school nurse.
If your child is unwell and unable to attend school, please inform the Prep Office either
by telephone, email or in person on each day of absence, before 9:30am. Failure to do this
will result in a telephone call from the office staff to ascertain the reason for absence. On her
return to school, a letter/email should be sent to explain the nature of the absence and
confirm that your child is fit to return to school.
If your child is unwell in school and is unable to cope with normal activities, we will make
sure that she is comfortable and will make every effort to contact you to arrange for her to be
taken home.
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Condition / Illness / Disease Notes + Exclusion Period
Chickenpox Please only return to school 5-7 days after the first scab
has appeared and all blisters have scabbed over.
Cold sores Return to school once soreness and discharge have
disappeared.
Conjunctivitis
An extremely contagious condition requiring immediate
treatment. Keep at home until it clears up. Return 48 hours
after commencing appropriate treatment.
Diarrhoea and vomiting
Do not send to school. She should be kept away from
school until a minimum of 48 hours has passed after last
bout of sickness or diarrhoea.
Eczema No exclusion necessary unless infected.
Glandular fever No exclusion necessary if well.
Hand, foot and mouth disease No exclusion necessary if well.
Head lice
If we see head lice in school we will ask the parent to
collect their daughter to treat her as we do not want the lice
to spread to others. Once treated, no need to exclude or
separate. This is a problem affecting children in the
younger age group. We recommend that you regularly
check for head lice. If your child does have an infestation
please inform the school in order that we may inform other
parents that there has been an incidence so they can
check their child’s hair.
Impetigo Exclusion until fully healed.
Influenza No exclusion necessary when well enough to manage a full
day in school.
Measles Please remain at home for 5 days after the onset of rash.
Mumps Please remain at home for 5 days after the onset of
swelling.
Psoriasis No exclusion necessary if not infected.
Ringworm of the feet No exclusion necessary.
Ringworm of the scalp Exclusion until treated.
Roseola No exclusion necessary.
Rubella (German Measles) Please remain at home for 5 days from the onset of rash.
Scabies Exclusion until treated.
Scarlet fever Return to school only after 24 hours from commencing
appropriate antibiotic treatment
Temperature Please do not send your daughter to school if she has a
temperature as this increases the risk of infecting others.
Threadworm Exclusion until treated.
Tonsillitis Return to school once temperature has settled for 24
hours.
Verrucae (warts) No exclusion necessary but lesions need to be covered.
Whooping cough Please remain at home for 5 days from start of antibiotics.
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Rewards Expectations with regard to good behaviour are reinforced at all times, in and outside of the
classroom and children are expected to show politeness and respect to their peers, staff,
parents and visitors. Prefects and the older girls model and encourage considerate,
respectful behaviour and actively promote adherence to the code of conduct and the school
rules. Children are continually encouraged and praised for all that they do at St. Margaret’s
School. Teachers are aware that nothing succeeds like success and work is differentiated to
ensure that the whole curriculum is accessible to all children and that there are constant
opportunities for success. Children’s achievements are rewarded with praise, positive words,
stickers, stars, Commendations and Award Marks.
Commendations At all stages in their school career girls will receive praise for good work – for good
classwork, performances in tests, high quality homework and impressive and/or enthusiastic
contributions in the classroom. Formal recognition of good work is made by use of
Commendations. Commendations may also be rewarded for politeness, good manners and
courteous, thoughtful behaviour. Commendations are recorded by the Class Teacher and
contribute towards the Best House Award at the end of the academic year.
Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 Star of the Week certificates are presented in the weekly Celebration Assembly. In the
Reception Class we appoint a Special Person for the Day and this child is able to take
Sparkle home and write in her diary. At the end of each term one girl from each class is
awarded a ‘Gold’ certificate for consistently demonstrating a high degree of effort and
progress. Also a ‘Special Award’ badge is presented to the girl in each class who has shown
consistent thoughtfulness, kindness and compassion to others.
Year 2 Commendation Certificates:
50 = bronze
100 = silver
200 = gold
250 = platinum
The Hillbrow Cup is awarded at the end of the year to the girl in Year 2 who has gained the
most Commendations throughout the year.
Upper Prep:
20 Commendations in a subject = Headteacher’s Award sticker
60 Commendations = Certificate
120 Commendations = Star Badge
Award Marks (from Year 3 upwards)
Award Marks are given for helpfulness, kindness and thoughtfulness or other positive
contributions to the life of the school.
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The school’s philosophy is that discipline should be based on good personal and
professional relationships and set in the total context of school life. The maintenance of good
discipline is of paramount importance for the growth, welfare and development of all girls.
The school has a clear system of sanctions. All members of staff are constantly looking to
praise and encourage girls, and care is taken to ensure that any punishments given are fair.
School Council The School Council is a group of pupils who are each elected by their class to represent the
views of all pupils and to improve their school. Being involved can develop important life
skills, such as speaking and listening skills, teamwork, problem-solving, moral reasoning
skills, self-esteem and self-confidence.
The Preparatory School Council meets once each term with a teacher present, chaired and
organised by our Head and Deputy Head Girls to discuss improvements that the children
may want in school and try to sort out any problems. These may include school lunches,
behaviour or ideas to improve the school.
Safeguarding All of the staff at St. Margaret’s have had at least Level 1 Safeguarding training within the
last three years, as required by law, which enables them to identify and respond in a timely
and appropriate way to safeguarding issues. If you are at all concerned about a child’s
welfare please contact either the Class Teacher, the Head of the Preparatory School or the
school’s Designated Child Protection Officer.
Safety The safety of the pupils is of high priority, and because they are so young, we
need to be particularly vigilant. Pupils are supervised at all times. We
therefore:
● Only allow a child to go home with someone other than their
parent(s) if we have received advance permission that she may be collected by
another adult. If we are unaware of the adult who is collecting we will call
the parents to verify that permission is given. It is the parent’s responsibility to let us
know if and when arrangements change.
- In the Joining Pack is a Collection Form, this is completed by the
parent on joining and again at the beginning of each academic year, or if
arrangements change.
- There is a Collection Chart for parents to fill in in the Lower
Prep entrance hall.
- Permission may be also given by letter, email or a telephone call
to the school.
● At the end of the day all pupils are dismissed by their Class Teacher or other
member of staff.
● We never allow a pupil to leave the premises unsupervised. There are always
sufficient staff on duty at break times.
● All visitors are asked to identify themselves and to state their business before we
give them access to the premises. Visitors sign in, wear a security badge and are
escorted throughout their visit. They sign out on leaving.
● All pupils are registered at the beginning of the morning and afternoon sessions.
● External doors have security keypads for staff use only.
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● We ensure that our premises, including outdoor space, are fit for purpose and
secure.
● All equipment, furniture and toys are safe for children to use, clean and hygienic.
St. Margaret’s School Rules (whole school) Poor behaviour, whatever the context is not accepted. This includes behaviour in school, in
the vicinity of the school, on school trips, when travelling to and from school, when wearing
school uniform, and at any time and place, including on the internet, when it is likely to bring
the school into disrepute.
1. All girls must be in school at the start of the term and not leave before the published end
of term date.
2. All girls attend registration, assembly/chapel as scheduled each day.
3. No day girl may leave the school campus at any time without first gaining permission from
a member of staff.
4. Uniform should be neat and clean. Skirts should be no shorter than mid-knee length; hair
should be tied back with a black or navy blue band. Shoes must be plain black, with bars or
lace-up as specified on the uniform list for different age groups, and made of material which
can be polished. The school 3 in 1 navy jacket is needed for winter weather. Mufti scarves,
hats, coats or jackets are not permitted as part of school uniform.
5. The only permitted jewellery is a religious symbol on a simple chain and one small plain
(no colours) ear stud in each ear lobe. No other body piercing or skin decoration is allowed.
6. Make up and nail varnish are not permitted with school uniform and hair must be of a
natural colour.
7. Sixth form girls (Years 12 and 13) must adhere to the published sixth form dress code.
8. No girl may bring in, have in her possession or use tobacco, alcohol or other prohibited
substances in school or on school trips in the UK or abroad.
9. Girls are expected to be well behaved, polite and courteous at all times, whether in
school, or on school visits, on school coaches or on public transport. There should be no use
of bad language or incidents which may be construed as any form of bullying.
10. Chewing gum, solvent-based correction fluids, matches and any items of unchecked
mains operated electrical equipment are not permitted in school.
11. Food may not be removed from the dining room or eaten in certain areas such as
classrooms, the library, or corridors.
12. Medicines should be held by the School nurse for safety and must not be kept in a girl’s
possession. Parents should provide a note, to be handed in at the Preparatory School
Office, for any medication brought into school.
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Do be kind and helpful Do not hurt other people
Always be considerate Do not be selfish
Look after property Do not waste or damage belongings
Listen and show respect Do not interrupt or be rude
Do work hard Do not waste your’s or other people’s time
Do be honest Do not cover up the truth
St Margaret’s Pupils’ Code of Conduct
• We behave sensibly and with consideration around the school.
• We take turns in a queue.
• We do not interfere with other people’s property.
• We do not drop litter or damage school property.
• We are well mannered to each other.
• We listen to and respect other people’s opinions.
• We report any bullying incidents to a member of staff.
• We are given a fair hearing when talking politely to a member of staff.
• We are willing to help another student when help is needed.
• We do not join in or pass by trouble, but will report it to a member of staff.
• We are kind to others even if they are not our friends and we make new students
feel welcome.
• We try to remember that everyone matters — and that we do too.
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Appendix 1
St. Margaret’s Preparatory School Uniform list
To be bought from D J Uniforms (until December 2015) or
Pullens (from Summer 2015)
School Outfitters
DJ Uniforms Tel: 020 8421 9488
45 High St Fax: 080 8421 9487
Bushey Email: [email protected]
Hertfordshire www.djuniforms.co.uk
WD23 1BD
Pullens 020 8954 3850
48-50 Church Rd, Stanmore HA7 4AH
Website www.uniform4kids.com
PLEASE ENSURE THAT EVERY ITEM OF CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ACCESSORY
IS NAMED CLEARLY
Autumn and Spring Terms
ITEM DESCRIPTION YEAR GROUPS
Jumper Navy with stripe all
Blazer (New) Navy Optional for Years 3-6
Blouse Turquoise all
Pinafore Blue/green tartan Reception to Year 3
Skirt Blue/green stripe Years 3 – 6
Art overall Navy smock all
Coat Navy with inside fleece all
Hat Navy, with school crest all
School bag Navy all
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Summer Term To be bought from the school uniform suppliers
The Summer uniform may be worn in the first half of the Autumn Term, weather dependent.
ITEM DESCRIPTION YEAR GROUPS
Summer dress White/turquoise all
Cardigan Navy with stripe all
Summer hat White, floppy all
Physical Education Clothing To be bought from the school uniform suppliers
ITEM DESCRIPTION YEAR GROUPS
Shorts Navy all
Polo shirt White, with school crest and all
surname printed on the back
Sweatshirt Navy, round neck all
Netball skort Navy Years 5 – 6
Tracksuit trousers Navy all
PE bag (drawstring) Navy all
Swimming costume Navy Years 1 – 6
Swimming hat House colour Years 1 – 6
St. Margaret’s Preparatory School Uniform list
May be bought from any shop
Autumn and Spring Terms
PLEASE ENSURE THAT EVERY ITEM OF CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ACCESSORY
IS NAMED CLEARLY
ITEM DESCRIPTION YEAR GROUPS
Tights Blue, plain all
Socks Navy, knee length all
Scarf Navy all
Gloves Navy all
Extra pair of pants (for accidents) Reception – Year 2
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Shoes Black - leather uppers with buckles all
with Velcro fastening, bar (not ‘Kickers’ style), or lace up (please ensure that your daughter
can put on and take off her shoes independently) with flat heel and rounded toes.
Wellingtons Reception – Year 2
Hair ties/bands/clips Black or Navy Blue (discrete and plain) all
Summer Term _ May be bought from any shop
The Summer uniform may be worn in the first half of the Autumn Term, weather dependent.
ITEM DESCRIPTION YEAR GROUPS
Socks White, ankle all
Extra pair of pants (for accidents) Reception – Year 2
Shoes Black - leather uppers with buckles all
or Velcro fastening bar (not ‘Kickers’ style), or lace up (please ensure that your daughter can
put on and take off her shoes independently) with flat heel and rounded toes
Hair ties/bands/clips Black or Navy Blue (discrete and plain) all
Physical Education Clothing MAY BE BOUGHT FROM ANY SHOP
ITEM DESCRIPTION YEAR GROUPS
Goggles any Years 1 - 6
Swimming bag waterproof Years 1 – 6
Swimming towel any colour Years 1 - 6
Trainers Predominantly White with all
non-marking soles – Velcro (or lace up if child can tie independently)
Sports socks White, ankle (different pair to those all
worn during the day)
Boot bag any Years 5 – 6
Shin pads any Years 5 - 6
Information from the P.E. Department
During your daughter’s time at St Margaret’s she will be taking part in Games - gymnastics,
netball, football, swimming and dance throughout the Winter and Spring terms, and athletics,
rounders and tennis during the Summer Term. She should have all the items on the clothing
list. Each item must be fully labelled inside.
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General Appearance It is expected that all girls will maintain a smart appearance with shoes polished. Hair should
be kept neat and tidy. It must be tied or clipped back so that none falls over the eyes,
eyebrows or face; this is particularly important for all sporting activities and practical lessons.
Use of hair gel is not permitted. Hair should not be dyed, bleached or tinted. Hair below the
shoulder should be tied back.
Jewellery
Ideally we would prefer that no jewellery is worn at all to school, but we do understand that
some is worn for religious reasons. Our Uniform Policy states, “Small religious symbols may
be worn on a chain around the neck, but must be removed for PE lessons.” Therefore on
PE, Games, Swimming and Dance days please would you ensure that all jewellery is taken
off and left at home as staff do not have the time to take off every child’s jewellery. If your
child needs to wear a small religious symbol or ear rings and can remove them
independently, we will do our best to ensure that it is safe but we cannot be responsible for
any loss.
Ear rings: A single plain stud (no colour) may be worn in each ear. If your daughter is
going to have her ears pierced, please could we politely ask you to have this done on the
first day of the summer holiday so that when your daughter returns to school in September,
they are ready to be removed for PE lessons. If she has newly pierced ears and is unable to
remove them, on a PE day please would you tape them up. The taping up of ear rings in
swimming is not an option as there is a risk that the tape will come off in the water and may
present a choking hazard for other swimmers. In the event that any jewellery cannot be
removed your daughter will not be permitted to take part in the lesson.
Watch: A dark, plain colour analogue watch may be worn by children in Year 2
upwards. Analogue is best as this helps children when learning to tell the time.
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Appendix 2 Frequently Asked Questions
HOW DO I…
let the school know my daughter is
unwell?
Telephone, email or in person tell the Preparatory
School Office on each day of absence before 9.30am.
When do I need to send in a
sickness/absence note?
On the day your daughter returns to school and ask
her to give it to her Class Teacher.
let the school know that I am
running late?
Telephone or email the Preparatory School Office.
let the school know that someone
else is
collecting my daughter?
In the Lower Prep please complete the Collection Form
on the clipboard stand, telephone or email the
Preparatory School Office.
book an appointment with my
child’s teacher?
Telephone or email the Preparatory School Office or
write a note in your daughter’s Homework Diary
(Reading Record Book if she is in Reception or Year
1). The Class Teacher will reply with a selection of
days and times from which you may select a
convenient time.
book an appointment with the
Head of the Preparatory School?
Telephone or email the Preparatory School Office.
Ask permission for my daughter to
be absent?
Write to the Head of the Preparatory School.
book a place at the Breakfast Club
or After School Club?
Through the school website – General Information –
Useful Information – After School Club booking or
Breakfast Club booking – log in with your parent portal
username and password. You will immediately receive
a receipt once you have paid.
speak with the school nurse? Telephone or email (please see details at the
beginning of this Handbook)
tell the school about an out of
school achievement?
We love hearing this type of news! Either let us know
through the Preparatory School Office email, telephone
or speak with us in person.
tell the school that your parent log-
in is not working?
Telephone or email the IT Department (please see
details at the beginning of this Handbook)
report lost property? Telephone or email the Preparatory School Office.
find school term dates? This information is on the school website and in the
termly Calendar Card.
book or make changes to co-
curricular activities?
Telephone or email the Preparatory School Office.
buy second hand uniform? Pop in, telephone or email the Preparatory School
Office.