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British School of Washington School Handbook 2011 - 2012

British School of Washington Handbook

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Handbook for parents and students of the British School of Washington

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British School of Washington

School Handbook2011-2012

Draft August 10, 2011

- where students are inspired.... successful.... empowered.

he British School of Washington (BSW) is a non-sectarian, co-educational college preparatory independent day school of 450 students from 3-18 years (UK Nursery to Year 13/US Pre-School to Grade 12) owned and operated by the World Class Learning Group. Other WCL schools in America are located in New York, Houston, Boston, Chicago, and Charlotte.

BSW serves the members of the British, American, and international communities in Washington, DC and the metropolitan area who are seeking a high quality British based education taught in English with a global perspective. There are 230 students in the Primary School and 220 students in the Secondary School of which 51 are enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Programme (IBDP). Whilst many students originate from the UK and United States, the school is an international community with over 40 different nationalities. Pupils, students and staff belong to one of four “houses” which engenders a whole school community ethos. The school occupies outstanding facilities close to the campus of Georgetown University. The school offers a transportation system for students living within an hour of the campus. The average class size is 14 for all Secondary School and 16 for Primary classes allowing for significant personal attention. The school offers no special provision for children with significant learning disabilities, but is able to support those with mild learning needs. For Years 10-13, prospective students must demonstrate advanced proficiency in English. The majority of the staff are British and were educated in the United Kingdom. They mainly hold UK degrees as well as government recognized teaching qualifications. The school’s curriculum is based on British and international programs. The various courses reflect a global perspective and the international outlook of the student body. BSW offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities for all students including an active House system of competitive activities, interschool sports, music tuition and choirs, as well as a number of clubs and activities for younger students. The school is a member of the European Council of International Schools, the Council of International Schools, the Council of British International Schools in the European Communities, the International Baccalaureate Organization, and is accredited as a ‘Learning Focused School’ by Fieldwork Education Services, UK.

T

he Educational Programme

Curriculum Overview Learners at BSW follow a curriculum which is based on the requirements of the English National Curriculum, the International Primary Curriculum, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. A new programme ‘The International Middle Years Curriculum’ is being introduced in the coming years beginning in 2011-12.

Definition of Learning

At BSW our central focus is inspiring learning which takes place in academic, cultural, physical, social and emotional contexts.

At BSW we believe that learning takes place when children dynamically develop and consolidate skills, knowledge and understanding by connecting new experiences to their prior learning.

At BSW we believe that deep learning takes place when the individual’s ability to reflect, apply, analyse, synthesise and communicate is expanded.

At BSW we nurture lifelong learning and inspire worldwide perspectives within a challenging and supportive academic environment.

The Primary School Section

Nursery and Reception/Pre-School and Pre-Kindergarten

Children follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in conjunction with the Early Years Foundation Stage which develops skills using a play-based approach across a range of topics. Children are introduced to French or Spanish through stories, games and songs. During Reception children will begin to follow the Primary Framework for Literacy and Mathematics.

Years 1-6/ Kindergarten-Grade 5 The core learning in the primary school is taught through the IPC. In addition objectives for Mathematics and Literacy are drawn from the UK’s educational strategies. Children in Year 1 and 2 receive taster lessons in French or Spanish from their class teacher and from Year 3 are given the option of learning French or Spanish. These lessons are taught by a language specialist. Music (Years 1-6), Art (Years 1-6), PE and Latin are also taught by subject specialists.

T

The Secondary School Section

Lower Secondary (National Curriculum) Years 7-9/Grades 6-8 From Years 7 to 9, students undertake courses based upon the National Curriculum. All students take three year courses in the following subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, History (Students study aspects of US History within this course), Geography, Music, Art, Design Technology, Physical Education and Citizenship. Students choose to study either French or Spanish In 2011-12, the school will be introducing the International Middle Years Curriculum to replace the UK Guidelines.

Upper Secondary (IGCSE) Years 10-11/Grades 9-10

Students in Years 10 and 11 take the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) courses. IGCSE certificates are awarded to students who have met the required standards in their examinations and assessed assignments at the end of Year 11 upon completion of the two year IGCSE course. Most British School of Washington students take 9 subjects at IGCSE level. All students take IGCSE courses in English Language, English Literature, and Mathematics. They then choose one additional course from each of six option groups which include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, French, Latin, Spanish, Art, Music, Design and Technology, Drama, and Physical Education. Two Science options are required as a minimum. In addition, students are required to take a double period of Sports each week and a single period of Citizenship.

IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) Years 12-13/Grades 11-12

All students in Years 12 and 13 take courses which can lead to the award of the full IB Diploma. The IBDP has been continuously developed since 1968 and is a highly regarded, internationally recognized programme with a standardized curriculum, moderated coursework, and an external examination at the end of two years. IBDP students must complete one course from each of six academic areas chosen from the following options: Group 1: English Language A1 Group 2: A Second Language e.g. Language B, Spanish Ab initio Group 3: Individuals and Societies Group 4: Experimental Sciences Group 5: Mathematics Group 6: The Arts and Electives Within these groups, the following options may be available: English, Spanish, French, Business and Management, Geography, History, World Politics and International Relations, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Film, Visual Arts, and Design and Technology. Three of the six subjects are studied at Higher Level and the remaining subjects are studied at Standard Level. In addition, all students take a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, complete 150 hours of Creativity, Action,

and Service (CAS) component, and research and write a 4,000-word extended essay. In some cases students may qualify to do a self-taught Language A1 (this counts as a Standard level option). For students who are unable or do not wish to pursue the full IB Diploma, IB certificates may be pursued in one or two higher level subjects although students are still obligated to fulfil all the other requirements of the IBDP.

Curriculum Planning

All areas of the curriculum are planned at the long, medium and short term level. Long term plans or curriculum overview maps detail areas of each subject as they are covered each term in all year groups. Medium term planning lays out the focus week by week over the term and short term planning details learning objectives, differentiated outcomes, and assesses and evaluates pupil learning.

Work Experience Placement Scheme

The value of work experience extends far beyond the development of an understanding of specific job-related skills and aspects of employment. Work experience also supports learning in curriculum areas such as economic awareness, environmental and health and safety education. It is a core experience which contributes towards students’ personal and social development and the opportunity to develop the WCL and school’s core values. It improves communication skills; encourages independence and self-discipline; develops self-confidence; introduces contexts for ‘real life’ problem solving skills; involves the community in the learning process and encourages good links between the school and local industry. Aims:

to prepare students for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life: specifically to give students a broad understanding of the world of work and of the disciplines involved so that they might be well prepared for the transition to the work environment;

to promote better understanding between students and the local community, the school and employers;

to provide another context for students’ personal development;

to identify personal aptitudes, likes and dislikes to assist in the selection of a career.

Traditionally the Work Experience Placement Scheme has been held the last two weeks of summer term for Year 10 students and is based upon a British programme that generally takes place across the UK. At age 15 yrs, students at the end of the academic year get a chance to explore the world of work in the field that at the moment they feel the most interested in. The students get an opportunity to show some of the skills that would be required of them in the “real world” such as independence, organisation, communication skills, and time keeping. Placements are decided between the Work Experience Coordinator, students, and their parents and are located in DC, MD, VA, New York and the UK areas. Placements have included hotel management, cardiology, accountancy, the Royal Air Force, The National Zoo, politics in the Mayoral education programme, pathology, work with animals, graphic design and journalism.

Assessment and Marking across the School Feedback and Marking across the school focuses on successes, areas for improvements and set targets for future improvements. Pupils are given time to read, reflect and respond to marking. In the Primary section, assessment, feedback and marking are the responsibilities of the teacher setting the work. Assessment praises positive achievements as well as advising on selective areas where improvements need to be made. This feedback can be given verbally or written. Comments focus primarily on learning objectives and apply to both attainment and effort. Conferences with pupils are timetabled to discuss their achievements and set future targets and goals. When appropriate (taking into account age and maturity), self-assessment and peer assessment is encouraged. Pupils are encouraged to self evaluate their own work and the work of their peers and identify successes and areas for improvements. Verbal comments are important but there are also regular written comments recorded (as appropriate to each key stage) so that all learners can refer back to these. Marked work will be consistent in indicating errors in handwriting and presentation, punctuation or spelling and the relevant symbols and code followed for each key stage. In the Secondary section, marking is an important tool in allowing students to progress in their learning and develop their skills. Students will be given verbal and/or written feedback on their work. Marking will always praise positive achievements as well as identifying areas where improvements need to be made. Students are also given the opportunity to assess their own work against curriculum mark schemes to improve their understanding of exam requirements and set their own targets for development. Marking at BSW is:

Consistent

Constructive

Diagnostic

Motivating

Clear and easy for students to understand and learn from. British teachers are trained to use the full range of attainment grades available to them and will award grades across this range.

Progress Reports and Parent Teacher Conferences Students at the British School of Washington are not class ranked and grade point averages are not calculated. The school year is divided into three terms of approximately equal length and grades for attitude and attainment are awarded four times a year. Student progress is reported to parents on a regular basis both in written form (full reports 2 times a year, and 2 grade reports a year), and through Learning Review Conferences. The discussions are held in the presence of the student who attends the conferences with their parents.

Nursery and Reception In Nursery and Reception, student progress in reported in two full written reports a year and two grading reports. Each grading report identifies two aspects the pupils have achieved in each of the six learning areas from The Foundation Stage Profile and two targets for improvement.

Years 1- 6 (Nursery-Grade 5) In Years 1 -6, student progress is reported in two full written reports and two grading reports. In all reports, grades for attainment are awarded according to the National Curriculum level that the student has performed consistently at in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening, Mathematics and Science. Key skills which have been achieved in the IPC are also identified.

Years 7 – 9 (Grades 6 - 8) In Years 7 -9, student progress is reported in two full written reports and two grading reports. Grades for attainment are awarded according to the English National Curriculum level that the student has performed consistently in all subject areas. Students also are awarded a grade for their Attitude to Learning.

Years 10 - 11 (Grades 9 -10) Students are not class ranked and credits and grade point averages are not calculated. The school year is divided into three terms of approximately equal length. Grades for effort and attainment are awarded two times per term. The following scales are used to record student achievement. In Years 10-11/Grades 9-10, IGCSE results are awarded on a scale of A*-G (with A* the highest score). D is considered a passing mark. Students are also awarded a grade for Attitude to learning.

IGCSE attainment Descriptors

A* Excellent

A Very good

B Good

C Satisfactory

D Weak

E/F/G Very weak

U Unclassified

Years 12 and 13 (Grades 11 and 12) In Years 12 and 13/Grades 11 and 12, the IBDP records results on a scale from 1-7. A 3 is considered a passing mark. BSW report card grades are awarded using the guidelines below. Individual colleges and universities will convert IBDP numerical grades to their own letter equivalent. Students are also awarded a grade for Attitude to learning.

IB attainment Descriptors

7 Excellent

6 Very good

5 Good

4 Satisfactory

3 Weak

2 Very weak

1 Unacceptable

Attitude to Learning Grade Descriptors

Grade Descriptor

A

Always focused on learning. Consistently and confidently participates in class discussion, group work and independent study. Always enthusiastic, enjoys and is interested in learning, meeting all deadlines. Inquisitive, asking questions. Frequently demonstrates initiative and creativity, showing a strong desire to improve through reflective learning and further study. Extremely well organized, always arriving on time with all equipment, ready to begin learning. Takes great pride, care and attention in the presentation of their work.

B

Almost always focused on learning. Frequently participates confidently in class discussion, group work and independent study. Demonstrates some enthusiasm, enjoying and being interested in most areas of study. All deadlines are met. Able to demonstrate initiative and occasionally able to be reflective, showing a desire to improve by responding to constructive comments. Well organized, normally arriving on time with all equipment, ready to begin learning. Takes pride, care and attention in the presentation of work.

C

Normally focused on learning. Normally participates in class discussion and group work, though occasionally needs some encouragement to work independently. Normally meets deadlines. Inconsistent in demonstrating enthusiasm and enjoyment. Can demonstrate some initiative but needs encouragement to seek to improve. Normally well organized and on time, but occasionally fails to bring all equipment. Usually takes care in the presentation of work.

D

Rarely focused on learning and is easily distracted. Needs teacher involvement to encourage any participation in class activities and/or group work. Needs a great deal of encouragement to work independently and fails to meet many deadlines. Does not demonstrate any creativity and rarely seeks to improve. Is disorganized, often late to class, frequently failing to bring all equipment. Work is often poorly presented.

BSW Secondary School Graduation Requirements

All Year 12 and 13 students (Grades 11 and 12) study for the International Baccalaureate Diploma. All students who meet the school’s graduation requirements are also awarded a BSW High School Diploma. The IBO issues a separate IB Diploma or IB subject certificates dependent on exam results. The BSW High School Diploma is an internal school diploma which certifies that students have met the following requirements either in four years at BSW or after satisfactory transfer from another recognised programme: 1) Completion of the two-year IGCSE course with a minimum of 5 A* to C grades or equivalent at the end of Year 11; 2) Completion of the two-year BSW IB Programme course with school assessed grades of 3 or higher in all subjects taken.3) Successful completion of the IB extended essay; 4) Successful completion of the Theory of Knowledge course; 5) Successful completion of the CAS (Creativity, Action and Service) programme; 6) 95% attendance in all courses. Students will not normally be admitted in Year 11/Grade 10 unless they are halfway through an IGCSE course or equivalent that can be successfully completed achieving the requisite minimum of 5 A* to C grades. Students who complete Year 13 but who do not fulfil the conditions above will be awarded a High School Certificate of Achievement listing the subjects taken and the grades achieved at the completion of the course.

College Admissions Testing BSW arranges SAT test preparation courses which are essential for students planning on applying to American colleges and universities. These courses takes place at the school, usually at the start of the Autumn term and are organised by a local provider. The tests themselves are taken at a local centre. The PSAT is a preliminary preparation for the SAT geared toward younger secondary students. An outstanding performance on this test allows American students to be eligible for National Merit Scholarships. The test can be taken at the school and is only offered two times a year. The PSAT should be taken in Year 10 and the SAT course taken in Year 11 and 12. Once a course has been taken pupils can retake the SAT exam to improve their scores.

chool Policies and Procedures

Admissions Policy The aim of the Admissions Policy of British School of Washington is to ensure that all applicants who are assessed as being able to access the curriculum successfully, be given an equal opportunity of entry, regardless of nationality, race, or religion. Additionally it is to be noted that school places are allocated according to the following order of priority:

1. siblings of current enrolled learners

2. children of staff

3. families relocating within the WCL Schools Group

The school does not admit anyone with significant behavioural difficulties or moderate to severe learning needs.

Religion Policy BSW is a non-religious foundation secular school and follows the guidelines for US public schools. The school does not discriminate against private religious expression by learners at the school but, at the same time, does not endorse religious doctrine. The goal at BSW is to foster among everyone understanding and mutual respect for all religions.

Year Group Placement Policy The British School expects all applicants to be placed in their age-appropriate class based on a September 1st cut-off date. Exceptions are made solely at the discretion of the Head, and may be considered under any of the following circumstances:

Anyone who has been placed out of his or her age group in a different school and he or she would be entering the next logical or sequential grade

A student who will be entering a two year exam course (IGCSE Programme or the IB Diploma Programme), and will receive the most benefit from the course of study if he or she enters the course at the beginning

Anyone is entering from a different educational system (e.g. one in the southern hemisphere) with a different series of cut-off dates.

S

In these cases, the school may consider a combination of factors including previous reports, teacher input and meetings with both the applicant and their family. The school reserves the right to determine the final placement.

Admissions Procedures The District of Columbia requires that everyone enrolled in all schools in its jurisdiction, private as well as public, to have certain immunisations. Without these immunisations, learners may not attend school. There are two exceptions; if a family has a religious objection, this must be submitted in writing to the school. Otherwise, if a physician states in writing that the immunisation is unwise for medical reasons, the vaccination may be waived. If the Health Form is not completed and submitted to the school, the school must exclude the learner until the Health Form is turned in. The DC School System requires everyone to have:

DPT (Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus)

OPV or IPV (Polio Vaccine)

MMR (Measles/Mumps/Rubella)

Hib (Hemophilus Influenza type b)

HepB (Hepatitis B)

Varicella – If the child has not had chicken pox DC Health Certificate Instructions and Health Form Information and Requirements can be found on the school’s website. Also see the Health, Safety, and Security Section of this booklet for BSW Health policies and procedures. Parents must complete all application materials and submit them to the school. Parents are then required to agree to support the school’s procedures and requirements, to fulfil all financial obligations, and to comply with all school rules and regulations as outlined in this Handbook. Terms and conditions of enrolment in the school are outlined in the British School of Washington Agreement. Enrolment at the school is conditional upon receipt of a signed School Agreement. It is recommended that parents keep a further copy of the School Agreement for their own reference. As outlined in the Agreement, payment for half the fees for the coming school year is due by June 1st. For students enrolling after the June tuition deadline, those fees will be due within ten days of receipt of the invoice. Payment for the remainder of the year is due by the following December 1st. All other invoices or fees are invoiced as necessary and due upon receipt. Upon leaving the school, deposits that may be refunded will be made 30 days after leaving the school by cheque (check) to the address on file, unless alternate arrangements have been made with the Business Manager.

Finance Office All invoice enquiries and payments should be forwarded directly to the Business Manager at the school. Parents may contact Mrs. Paulette McPherson, the Business Manager, at 202.829.3700 or at [email protected].

The school will notify parents by February of any changes to the fee structure for the coming academic year. The school is unable to offer a payment plan. If there are exceptional circumstances, it is recommended that parents contact the Business Manager.

Transferring to another School All documentation requests – transcripts/reports/teacher recommendation forms etc – MUST be sent to the College Admissions and School Liaison Officer and NOT given directly to the teachers concerned. They will then be distributed to the appropriate teachers. When returned completed, they will be sent in one package which will include a school profile and such school reports as requested or needed.

Please note that before anything can be processed, the College and School Liaison Officer will check with the Finance Office that there are no monies outstanding. If there are, the family will be contacted to let them know that they need to contact the Finance Office to clear up the matter after which the process can continue.

The full package will be sent by FedEx. The College and School Liaison Officer will track the applications and will let families know when they arrive. The cost of using FedEx will appear on each family’s school account.

As all is sent in one package, there is no need for stamped addressed envelopes to be included.

It is important that forms are submitted in a timely manner allowing several weeks processing so the paperwork is done properly and not rushed before they are sent.

The school is able to prepare pupils, as well as administer entry exams, for the 11+ evaluation, Common Entrance and other admission examinations as required by individual schools. The cost of sending completed papers back to individual schools will be charged to parents. Leavers from BSW are typically able to transfer smoothly to other schools, and BSW is happy to liaise with the receiving school to help in this process.

Parents are reminded that, in accordance with the Terms and Conditions associated with accepting a place at this school, a full term's notice is required, in writing, in order for the deposit of $1,000 to be returned. Those parents who will be leaving BSW at the end of an academic year should inform the Admissions Office and ensure that they do not sign the re-enrolment contract.

The first year’s contract is for the full year, while re-enrolled learners may be released from their contracts with a term’s notice. Any further questions about this policy should be directed to the Admissions Office.

Placement at BSW

Age before 1 September 2009

BSW UK System

United States Equivalent

2. 9 yrs.* Nursery*

Pre-School*

4 yrs.** Reception**

Pre-Kindergarten**

5 yrs. Year 1

Kindergarten

6 yrs. Year 2

Grade 1

7 yrs. Year 3

Grade 2

8 yrs. Year 4

Grade 3

9 yrs. Year 5

Grade 4

10 yrs. Year 6

Grade 5

11 yrs Year 7

Grade 6

12 yrs. Year 8

Grade 7

13 yrs. Year 9

Grade 8

14 yrs. Year 10

Grade 9

15 yrs. Year 11

Grade 10

16 yrs. Year 12

Grade 11

17 yrs. Year 13

Grade 12

English as an Additional Language The language of instruction at the British School of Washington is English. Therefore, everyone seeking admission to the Primary and Secondary School must have a command of oral and written English, which is assessed to be sufficient for them to access the curriculum. Those whose command of English is limited are only able to be admitted to the Foundation Stage (ages 3-5).

Learning Support The school has no special provision for applicants with significant learning needs, but is able to offer limited support for those with minor learning needs. In some cases an offer of a place at the school may be conditional upon a short term review of progress or upon parents agreeing to enhance and support their child’s education with outside support and resources.

*Nursery Options

Children who are two years and nine months before 1 September may enrol from the Autumn term onwards and in either the full time or part time options below: Full time day option: 8:30 a.m. - 3:20 p.m. Part time day option: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Please note: Since all children entering Reception must be four years old then children who are not three years old on September 1 of the year of entry will be required to remain in the Nursery class. All Nursery children must be toilet trained. **Reception information All children must be four years old by 1 September in order to enter Reception. Reception children attend for the full day from 8:30-3:20 p.m. Entry dates for Nursery and Reception may be staggered over several days in the Autumn in order to ensure a smooth transition for all new children.

Pastoral Care/Counseling

The Pastoral system at BSW provides both academic and emotional support for each individual child, parent or family group. A structured in-school framework of communication between Class Teachers/Form Tutors, Key Stage Coordinators and Learning Leaders provides all learners with the academic and emotional support they need to ensure academic success and emotional wellbeing throughout the academic year. Each learner at the school has a class teacher or form tutor who is main hub for the child, his or her family, and the rest of the school community.

In addition to these roles the school also provides on-site access to a school counselor, provided by the Family Support Center in Bethesda. The counsellor provides our learners and their families with the opportunity to gain an objective and more detailed exploration of any issue that may require a longer-term approach. Referrals to the School Counselor are made via the SEAL Learning Leader.

SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning)

Rationale

At BSW we seek to provide an environment of mutual respect in which all children are “welcomed, accepted and valued”. We want our children to “leave school prepared for the next stage of their lives and confident in their ability to make a contribution to the world”.

We believe that the SEAL curriculum is central to being able to achieve these objectives as it helps the pupils to learn to understand themselves physically, emotionally and socially; to understand their relationships with others; to become responsible members of society. In this way, social and emotional learning are at the heart of everything we do in our school.

Aims and Purposes of SEAL

Our aim is to deliver a curriculum which supports our school mission statement and which underpins the values of our school community. This is done through a clear and planned curriculum which is designed to equip our learners to develop:

• Personal learning (self-awareness, management of feelings and motivation) • Interpersonal learning (empathy, social skills) • Effective and satisfying relationships with others • Respect for similarities and differences • Independence and responsibility • Awareness of how to keep themselves and others safe • An ability to make the most of their abilities • An ability to play an active role as members of our society • Knowledge of a healthy lifestyle • The skills needed to make choices • An awareness of social and moral dilemmas

School Environment

Our school ethos is one where everyone is valued and encouraged, where positive relationships are seen as important, and where the environment is safe, secure and conducive to learning. Therefore we have developed a whole school approach to SEAL which involves all members of the school community. The SEAL objectives have been woven across the curriculum, with structured focus on key skills and explicit discussion around these skills and rewards at all levels.

The School Day

Children (Nursery/ Pre-Kindergarten)

Morning Monday - Friday

8:00-8:20 am Parents may take their children to the Early Year's playground for collection by

teachers or directly into Nursery classroom

8:30 am - 8:40 am Registration (children recorded late after 8.30 a.m.)

08:40 – 11:45 am In class (includes a playtime of twenty minutes)

11:45 am Part-time children pick up

Afternoon

11.45-12.15 pm Full time children - Outdoor play

12:15 - 12:45 pm Lunch in Classroom

12:45 - 1:45 pm In class

1:45 - 2:10 pm Playtime

2:15 - 3:20 pm In class

3:20 - 3:30 pm Children are collected from the Early Years playground

3:30 - 6:00 pm Adventure Club

Pupils (Reception –Year 2 / Kindergarten - Grade 1)

Morning Monday - Friday 8:00- 8:20 am Reception pupils go to the Early Year’s playground. Years 1 – 2 pupils go to the

main playground for collection by teachers

8:30 – 8:40 am Registration (Children and pupils are recorded as late after 8.30 a.m.)

8:40 – 10:20 am In class

10:20 - 10:40 am Playtime

10:40 - 11:45 am In class

Afternoon

11:45 - 12:45 pm Lunch then play

12:45 - 1:45 pm In class

1:45 - 2:15 pm Playtime

2:15 - 3:15 pm In class

3:15 - 3:30 pm Pupils taken to turning circle for collection

3:30 – 4:30 pm After-School Clubs and Activities (Adventure Club until 6:00 pm)

Pupils (Years 3 - 6 / Grades 2 - 5)

Morning Monday – Friday 8:00 – 8:20 am Years 3 – 6 pupils go to the main playground for collection by teachers

8:30 – 8:40 am Registration (pupils are recorded as late after 8.30 a.m.)

8:40 - 10:40 am In class

10:40 - 11:00 am Playtime

11:00 - 12:15 am In class

Afternoon

12:15 – 1:15 pm Lunch then play

1:15 - 3:15 pm In class

3:15 - 3:30 pm Pupils taken to turning circle for collection

3:30 - 4:30 pm After-School Clubs and Activities (Adventure Club until 6:00 pm)

Students (Years 7-13 / Grades 6 - 12)

Morning Monday - Friday

8:00 am Doors open. Students are not admitted into the building until 8.00 a.m.

8:15 - 08:30 am Locker/registration. (Students are recorded late after 8.20 a.m.)

8:30 - 09:20 am Lesson 1

9:20 - 10:10 am Lesson 2

10:10 - 11:00 am Lesson 3

11:00 - 11:25 am Break

Afternoon

11:25- 12:15 pm Lesson 4

12:15 - 1:05 pm Lesson 5

1:05 - 1:50 pm Lunch then play

1:50 – 2:40 pm Lesson 6

2:40 - 3:30 pm Lesson 7 (Monday - 2.40-3.30pm- Assembly/tutorial time)

3:30- 4:30/5:00 pm After-School Clubs and Activities (Adventure Club until 6:00, Year 7 only)

The school only accepts responsibility for all learners from 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. provided they are properly enrolled in a recognized BSW club or activity (Primary clubs end at 4:30 p.m.; Secondary clubs end between 4:30 - 5:00 p.m.; Adventure Club ends at 6:00 p.m.)

When a child or pupil has not been collected by 3.45 p.m. (and no alternative arrangement had been made with the class teacher or Adventure Club), they will be placed in Adventure Club and charged the “drop-in” fee of $30.00. If a parent’s pick up plans change during the day, they should notify the School Office so the appropriate teacher can be notified.

The school only accepts responsibility for all learners from 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. provided they are properly enrolled in a recognized BSW club or activity (Primary clubs end at 4:30 p.m.; Secondary clubs end between 4:30 - 5:00 p.m.; Adventure Club ends at 6:00 p.m.)

When a child or pupil has not been collected by 3.45 p.m. (and no alternative arrangement had been made with the class teacher or Adventure Club), they will be placed in Adventure Club and charged the “drop-in” fee of $30.00. If a parent’s pick up plans change during the day, they should notify the School Office so the appropriate teacher can be notified.

Pick-up and Drop-off Procedures

Bus Service The School has a contracted bus service through Alliance Premier Transportation. The buses all have seat belts and are fully inspected and maintained. All drivers and vehicles are in compliance with applicable laws imposed by DC, Virginia and Maryland relating to the commercial transportation of children. Service includes morning pick up at neighbourhood bus stops, morning drop-off at school, evening pick-up at the end of the school day, and evening drop-off at neighbourhood bus stops. All families using the bus service will receive a copy of the School Bus Code of Conduct. They are asked to sign and return the back page to school to indicate that they have received, read and understood the requirements. The school reserves the right to withdraw a place on the school bus if behaviour is unacceptable. Arrangements for transportation can be made through Paulo Lopes, Transportation Coordinator, at Alliance Premier who can be reached at 202.641.5470 or [email protected]. Contracts must be completed and returned to the School Office before using the bus service. If any change of transportation plans affects the child’s regular bus schedule, then they should contact BOTH the School Office and Paulo Lopes, Transportation Coordinator.

Car Parking and Driving Safety Primary School Children and Pupils (Nursery to Year 6)

Parents in Nursery – Year 2 who wish to escort their children to the door may park for 15 minutes only in the underground car park. Parking passes, available from the School Office are required. Parents of Nursery and Reception children may accompany them into class at the beginning of the day. All other parents are expected to leave their children at the door. Owing to the limitations of parking space, it is preferred that parents drop off in the turning circle. When dropping off Primary children and pupils, parents are asked to either use the turning circle in front of the building or to drop off on Whitehaven St. by the side of the school where a member of staff is on supervisory duty.

Secondary School Students (Year 7 to Year 13)

Parents of Secondary School students are asked to drop off on Whitehaven St. or on Wisconsin Ave. close to the junction with Whitehaven St. A staff member on duty at that junction will watch them until they enter the school area.

Family Drop-Off (Primary and Secondary)

Parents with children in both the Primary and Secondary Schools are asked to follow the Secondary School procedures.

Cycling to School

There is a cycle rack at the entrance to the school. We encourage local children to cycle to school. BSW strongly encourages all cyclists to abide by the DC regulations regarding the wearing of helmets while cycling, but the school is not responsible for enforcing this law.

Students Driving to School

Students who have their parents’ permission and a valid driver’s license must apply to the main School Office for a permit to park and also pay a termly parking fee. Along with a valid driver’s license, students are also required to submit to the School Office copies of the registration of the vehicle which may be driven, proof of insurance, and a copy of a parent’s driver’s license- all of which must be valid in the state in which they were issued.

Metro Buses

A number of buses serve the Georgetown and Glover Park area from Friendship Heights, the Dupont Circle area and downtown, including the Foggy Bottom Metro station.

Pick-Up

The arrangements for pick-up are similar to drop-off with parents either parking for a short time if they have car park passes or using the turning circle or street to pick up children and pupils quickly.

Visitors

The school is required to give Georgetown University 24 hours notice of any visitor requiring a complimentary parking pass. Visitors are asked to check in at the Main Office, obtain a visitor badge, and wait in the lobby for a school employee to escort them through the building.

Emergency or Weather Related School Closing Procedures

It is the policy of BSW to close the school if weather or civil circumstances create an unsafe environment within the school building or for accessing the school building.

This decision is made by the school senior administration based on the best available advice and information. BSW does not automatically follow the policy and procedures of any other organisation, school or school district, but will use information from those sources in their decision making. If the school has decided to stay open, the administration respects the individual choice of families to make their own informed decision based on the weather conditions where they live.

Notification of closure options

Closed All Day Two Hour Delay Open Normal Day Open Regular time/Cancel after-school activities and Adventure Club Early school closure

As soon as a decision is made, the administration will activate the Connect Ed Emergency System: phone option by 6:15 am, computer alerts, and inform the media and the bus company. School closing for winter weather will be broadcast on: TELEVISION: Fox 5 and RADIO: WTOP 103.5 FM, 103.9 FM and 107.7 FM A message will be also left on the School Office phone concerning any changes to the school day, such as inclement weather that would result in delays, school closings or issues related to facility electrical or mechanical malfunctions. In order to ensure effective home-school communication, it is requested that parents ensure that the school always has up-to-date information on the following matters:

Contact details (addresses, emails and telephone numbers)

Emergency information (details of contacts and health insurance)

Medical form (details of inoculations, allergies, medications etc.)

School trip consent form

These details can be checked and updated in the following two ways on the school’s website: 1. Click on the Engage Parent Portal and follow the instructions for requesting a change of contact info. Each parent has a unique login to the Parent Portal. If any parent is in need of a new Portal password, they should email their request to [email protected]. 2. Email any change of contact information directly to [email protected]. 3. Under the Parent tab on the website, there are two sections allocated for changing contact information. These sections will also be linked in the school’s e-newsletters for easy access to the change of contact forms. Should an emergency situation occur during school hours, everyone will remain on site until parents collect them.

Absence Policy and Procedures BSW offers a balanced educational programme that supports all learners in their cognitive, social, emotional, aesthetic and physical development. Attendance at school is central to progress in all developmental areas. Parents are requested not to take their children out of school except for urgent reasons related to health, company allocated vacation time or family emergencies. BSW expects that parents should plan their vacations so that school time is not missed. Assignments and homework that are to be missed can only be provided retrospectively, and not in advance. All absences from school must be explained by the parent or guardian by sending a written note to the School Office, by e-mailing [email protected] or by calling the School Office before 9:00 a.m. on the morning of the absence. The School Office will then notify the form tutor and subject teachers. Under normal circumstances those who are absent from school for more than three days must provide a written explanation from their parent(s)/physician. If parents have not notified the school in the morning, or if a child has missed registration and has not checked in upon arrival with the School Office, parents will be contacted by the school because the child will appear to be absent without reason.

Snacks and Lunches

Nursery and Reception children have a group snack each day provided by parents. Everyone is placed on a snack roster, distributed before the beginning of each half term. Snacks should be fruit or vegetable only, plus milk, juice or water (1 gallon). Pupils and students from Year 1 to Year 9 should bring their own healthy snack for break times. There are various drinking fountains around the school, but everyone is encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle for outdoor breaks and school trips. A full hot lunch service is offered by Armand’s, an outside caterer who brings the prepared food to the school.

This service is offered from Nursery to Year 13. Students in Nursery – Year 9 are not allowed to leave the campus during lunch. The Nursery children eat in their classroom and pupils in Reception- Year 9 eat in tables set up in the auditorium at three different sittings according to year groups. Parental approval is required for students in Years 10-11 who wish to leave school during lunchtime. Years 10 - 13 may go north and south of the school, as far as Whole Foods and Casbah. Students can eat in at any establishment which offers a seating area. Otherwise, food should be eaten in the designated lunch areas at school. Students are actively encouraged to learn the social and health benefits of eating whilst sitting with others rather than “eating on the go”. It is a privilege to be allowed to visit Wisconsin Ave. at lunchtime. This privilege will be withdrawn if a student is late in the morning or is required to attend a study session or activity. In Years 10 - 13, students must have a long-life food product stored in their locker as a standby in case they are unable to go out.

On-Line Hot Lunch Ordering All school meals should be ordered on-line by parents via the BSW web page by clicking the Parent Tab on the BSW web page and then clicking on the link to the "Hot Lunch On-line Ordering System" on the right hand side of the page. Registration instructions, menus, and food policies and procedures are also available in that section. Armand’s Catering can be contacted at [email protected] with any logon problems.

Food Service Policies 1. Daily meals can be ordered weekly or termly for each child in the household. Orders should be made at least one week in advance and will be charged at $4.75 for Nursery-Year 2 and $5.75 for Year 3 and up. Armand's offers a "large" portion for an additional $1.00, which gives a second helping or an extra hot dog, burger, etc to those that want more. Meals ordered less than one week in advance are considered "Emergency Meals" and will be charged an additional rate. There is no minimum number of meals required. “Emergency Meals” cannot be ordered after 2pm for the next day.

2. Purchased meals are not transferable to other students. 3. Meals are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. This may mean carrots instead of broccoli or apples instead of melon but every attempt will be made to avoid substitutions. Parents will be notified as soon as possible when a meal has been changed. 4. If a student is absent for 3 or more consecutive days, parents should contact Armand’s who will issue credits good for the next term. Armand’s cannot issue credit for absences of fewer than 3 consecutive days. 5. If parents know their child will miss a meal 48 hours in advance, parents can swap out the meal for a future one on-line in their account. Additionally, if a student decides they do not like a certain meal that has been ordered in advance, the parent can swap out the future undesired meal for another meal, or a meal credit. 6. Field Trips – A field trip lunch will be delivered to the school by Armand’s for most field trips in substitution of a previously ordered hot meal. See section below for more specific details on lunch arrangements for field trips. 7. If a child forgets her lunch, Armand’s can provide lunch for a limit of four students per day. The student must fill out a slip on the service line and Armand’s will bill the parent for an "Emergency Meal" at $6.55 per meal. 8. Parents are free to contact Armand’s at [email protected] directly with entrée suggestions or suggestions for improved service. The parents of Primary children who forget to buy or bring a lunch will be notified in time to enable them to provide their child with a lunch. If the school is closed, all students who have ordered lunch for that day will be given a credit to add another lunch. If lunches have been ordered every day, credit will be applied to the next term. In the case of an extended illness or family trip, credits will also be applied.

Lunch Arrangements for Field Trips Cancellations and New Orders 1. Children whose parents have already ordered a hot lunch on a day when a field trip is scheduled during the lunch period will automatically get the field trip bagged lunch from Armand’s.

2. Parents who do not want the field trip bagged lunch opting instead to send lunch from home, must e-mail [email protected] at least two full days before the trip, to cancel the field trip bagged lunch. The school encourages parents who prefer to send lunch from home to remember to e-mail Armand’s to cancel to avoid unnecessary waste. Parents who cancel are forfeiting their lunch order for that day and will not be receiving any type of credit from Armand’s.

3. Parents of students, who have not ordered a hot lunch on a day when a field trip is scheduled during the lunch period, can order an "Emergency Meal" on-line at least 24 hours in advance before the trip. Armand's will provide the child with a field trip lunch at the Emergency Meal rate. 4. The field trip bagged lunch will consist of a sliced turkey and Muenster cheese sandwich on light whole wheat bread, with mini carrots, sliced apples, and depending on the age of the children, pretzels, animal crackers, and/or a small brownie bite and water. The lunch will be packed in a brown paper bag that can be easily stored in a small backpack or hand carried. Field Trip Cancellation or Postponement 1. If a field trip is cancelled or postponed less than 48 hours in advance, Armand's will bring the bagged field trip lunch to be served at school on the cancelled field trip day. 2. If the field trip gets rescheduled to a date less than 48 hours after the original field trip date, all children attending the trip will have to bring their own lunch. Children who ordered the hot lunch for the new field trip day will lose the lunch and won't be able to get a credit.

Food Allergy Policy BSW is not a nut-free school although its policy is not to knowingly serve food containing nuts or nut derivatives, except for the Pesto Pasta Sauce, which contains pine nuts. Parents who have children with food allergies are responsible for instructing their children to avoid eating foods that may provoke allergic reactions. Parents are also responsible for instructing children with food allergies to seek the advice of one of the teachers on lunch duty if in doubt about the content of a food item. Notwithstanding, the school in sensitivity to the needs of Key Stage 1 children who may be shy or unassertive has a separate nut-free lunch table for children that are allergic to tree nuts. Although Armand’s is not a nut-free kitchen, it clearly indicates on its menus if a food item contains tree nuts. Please inform the Admissions Officer on the school’s health form, the form tutor or classroom teacher as well as the Health Administrator in writing (e-mail is sufficient) about any foods that she/he must not have, especially in the case of allergies or due to religious restrictions.

A Commitment to Greening BSW The school has established a “Green Committee” to oversee the development of a “green” philosophy at BSW and to reduce BSW’s ecological footprint and make the school environment a healthier place. We believe that BSW should become a role model for our community, for other schools and for all our students.

The Green Committee strives to achieve the above goals by:

Raising environmental awareness and urging the whole school community to embrace the effort to pursue sustainable living practices.

Aiming to use renewable, reusable and recyclable materials wherever possible in regard to green school supplies, green school events, introduction of non-toxic cleaners, recycling, composting and minimum waste.

Implementing the “Teach, Learn, Engage” philosophy. Beginning the process of integrating Environmental Education into the curriculum to promote environmental responsibility and harness meaningful student involvement/action.

Armand’s and BSW share a commitment to greening the Lunch Room through encouraging the use of recyclable products and to recycling lunch trash and food waste daily.

Parties and Celebrations

In the Primary School, end-of-term celebrations may be arranged by class teachers in consultation with class parents. Regarding birthdays, parents are welcome to send in some cupcakes or a birthday cake to be share with their classmates at the end of the school day. This should be an activity coordinated with the teacher.

After-School Care

The school offers after-school care, known as “Adventure Club,” from 3:25 p.m.- 6:00 p.m. for children and pupils from Nursery - Year 7. The aim of this after-school care is to provide a safe and stimulating environment for children and pupils of the British School.

At the beginning of a school session or term, financial arrangements are to be made with the BSW Business Manager to organise after school care for the year or term. Parents may choose to use the facility on a drop-in, daily, weekly or termly basis. Registration forms and rates are available from the School Office.

Any parent who has not collected their child by 6:00 p.m. will be required to pay a penalty fee of $1.00 per minute after 6:00 p.m. Parents should notify the School Office if there are any changes to the arranged pickup time. There will be a schedule of activities made up and sent out to participating families each term as well as posted on the website. Activities include arts and crafts, library/computer time, sports and gymnastics, as well as movies and Wii games. Every day there will be a time slot for a healthy snack, homework, and outdoor play if the weather permits. *Schedule subject to change depending on weather During vacation periods, BSW will endeavour to provide a week long "Holiday Club" (8.30-4.30 p.m., 5 days per week) which will include a range of activities but may also include an excursion to a local park, movie theatre, pottery store or museum using public transport.

Curriculum Enrichment Activities and Extra-Curricular Clubs As part of our enrichment of the curriculum, teachers make excellent use of the rich cultural opportunities offered in a capital city. Educational excursions are organised regularly throughout the school to enhance the learning experiences in the classroom. For the youngest pupils, this could be a trip to the local park or a local shop, whilst older students visit many of the downtown museums, important buildings in Washington such as the United States Capitol, the White House or even further afield to sights such as Baltimore and Williamsburg. Groups are always accompanied by an appropriate number of staff and parent volunteers. Students in Years 7 - 13 can also elect to take part in the Model UN programme. As well as day outings, longer overnight trips are offered to enhance the physical, emotional, and social development of the pupils. Upper primary classes go on excursions to Sheridan School Mountain Campus in Luray, Virginia where they are challenged and inspired in a natural environment. A well organised and energetic adventure program is offered where the pupils are able to access the curriculum in a multi-sensory setting. The physical experiences enhance the children’s learning both mentally and physically with the aim of building confidence while becoming members of a close knot and supportive community that respects individual needs and the natural environment. Written permission is required for all day and overnight trips. Parents will be informed of the cost of each trip, which will be collected prior to the trip taking place. A full ‘Risk Assessment’ is required by WCL prior to each trip. A number of clubs and activities are offered free of charge by teachers at BSW. However, there may be a charge for materials, the services of an external agency, or outside trainers. These take place at lunch time or after school. The types of clubs and activities vary from term to term. A full list of clubs and activities is issued by the school at the beginning of each term and learners may chose to participate in a maximum of two activities per term. The school also offers activities or camps during some mid-term breaks and vacations. The Curriculum Enrichment Sports Programme runs a full range of activities for students in Year 3 to Year 13. In these training sessions students are able to develop skills and awareness that will equip them to play against other schools and clubs. At present BSW participates in the following leagues; SIAC (Sixteenth Street Interscholastic Athletic Conference) League for Years 5 - 8 and the ISAC League for Years 9 to 13. In these leagues students participate in sports such as soccer, basketball, track and field, cross-country and kickball. We also provide a diverse range of activities that are not inter school related such as table tennis, dance, volleyball, cricket, fitness, tennis, ultimate Frisbee, rugby and kayaking. Additionally, professional tuition (academic or musical) is also available and a scale of charges for this tuition is available from the Business Office.

Houses and House Points In keeping with long standing British tradition, BSW operates a “House System” to provide a vertical link or connection between all learners and staff for social, pastoral, and sporting events. Everyone is placed in one of the four houses: Patuxent (Yellow), Potomac (Red), Shenandoah (Blue) and Chesapeake (Green). Siblings will be placed in the same house. Points are awarded for a range of academic, sporting, social and pastoral achievements and these are tabulated throughout the year for the house point competition. See [Primary and Secondary School Rewards]

Student Leadership Opportunities Head Boy, Head Girl, Prefects, Librarians, and Deputies

In both the Primary and Secondary School sections, a Head Boy, a Head Girl, and Deputies are chosen to lead and represent their peers. In the Primary School, offices are filled at the beginning of the academic year. In the Secondary School, positions are filled in May to allow Year 13 students to concentrate on their IB examinations. The Head Boy and Head Girl are supported by Librarians and Prefects who are chosen by the staff to take responsibility for a variety of activities. They are normally chosen from Year 5 and Year 6 pupils and Year 12 and Year 13 students. Job descriptions for these positions are posted on the website and are available from Chris Horton, Primary Mentoring Links Coordinator.

House Captains and Deputies

In both the Primary and Secondary School sections, House Captains and Deputies are chosen each year. They take responsibility for assisting in organising house events and activities.

The School Council

The School operates two Student Councils (one in the Primary section and one in the Secondary section) so that learners may be represented and encouraged to bring issues to the Administration of the school. In the Primary School section, councillors are elected for half a year to represent their class. In the Secondary School section, councillors are elected by their peers to serve for one full year. The Student Council is chaired by the Head Boy and Head Girl (Primary School) and by the Student Council Prefects (Secondary School) one of whom is elected President.

Parent Involvement at BSW

BSW and its Parents’ Association offer a wide variety of opportunities for parental involvement. All parents are regularly invited to attend class assemblies, coffee mornings, Head of School updates, Primary open houses, as well as information sessions on the academic programs. Throughout the year there are sporting events, concerts, plays, and art evenings to attend – all which help to foster the close BSW parent community. Parents may additionally support their children and BSW by volunteering both in and outside the classroom (reading, class parties, field trips etc.), or through events sponsored by the BSW Parents’ Association. For the most up-to-date information on how to get involved, visit the Parents Association section of the BSW website at www.britishschoolofwashington.org/Parents/ParentsAssociation.

If parents wish to use the underground parking area during their visit to the school, they are required to give the School Office at least 24 hours notice prior to their visit in order to acquire a parking pass. On the day of the visit, parents should sign in at the School Office. If parents need to book any facility in the school for a meeting or social event, they should contact Gayle Berger at [email protected].

Home - School Communication

Each form or class teacher is responsible for all aspects of pastoral care. This teacher is the first point of contact should any parent have a question or need further information. Please note, however, that subject specific inquiries should be directed straight to the subject specialists. Teachers and administrators may be contacted by phone through the School Office at 202.829.3700 or e-mailing [email protected] and can either return a phone call or arrange an appointment for the parent to come to the school.

If you have a question related to: Person responsible: Method of contact:

Classroom or Subject Based Questions:

-progress of a child

-class routines

-schedule

-homework

Primary Class Teacher/ Specialist Subject

Teacher/ Secondary Form Tutors

E-mail teacher directly (48 hr. Mon.-

Fri response). All teachers use first

initial. last [email protected]

(except for scott.hussey and

adrienne.taylor)

Day to Day Pastoral Questions:

Primary School Section:

Nursery

Lower Primary: Reception - Year 2

Upper Primary: Years 3 - 6

Class teachers in the first instance, then

Key Stage Coordinators:

Susan Parliament

Karen Pena

Chris Horton

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Secondary School Section:

Form tutors in the first instance then,

Louise Daw

[email protected]

Whole School Questions:

Whole school issues

Peter Harding or Chris Ryan [email protected]

[email protected]

Attendance Issues Marina Bijelic [email protected]

Safety and security Peter Harding [email protected]

Health and medical welfare Lyn Cassidy [email protected]

School uniform Gayle Berger [email protected]

Clubs and activities Elen Haf-Wiliams [email protected]

Updating contact information Engage Parent Portal, Parents section of

Website, or by email.

[email protected]

Curriculum Clarification Questions:

Nursery - Year 6 Jo O’Grady j.o’[email protected]

Years 7 - 9 Adrienne Taylor [email protected]

Years 10 - 13 (Overview) Daniel George [email protected]

Years 12 & 13 (IBDP specific questions) Scott Hussey [email protected]

CAS Years 12&13 Rhys Franklin [email protected]

Student Support Questions:

Social or emotional issues Jo Shaw [email protected]

Learning support Vicky Klage [email protected]

College admissions and school transfers Simon Bird [email protected]

Financial Questions:

Billing and payment inquiries Paulette McPherson, Maria Valladarez-Paz [email protected]

School - Home Communication

Below is an overview of school strategies for ensuring the school community remains well informed throughout the school year.

Information

Areas

Method of Distribution

Dates, Events Procedures

School Handbook (includes annual calendar): This handbook is available on the school’s website.

Website Calendar: The website calendar is the most up-to-date source for checking event dates in the school.

The FOCUS and KEEPING UP: Weekly e-newsletters ensuring the school community is aware of dates and events and activities.

Information regarding school closure, delays and emergencies: School administration will use the Connect-ED system and the school’s website to keep the school community informed.

Curriculum Framework

The School Handbook, Curriculum Booklets, and Curriculum Fact Sheets can be found on the school’s website and will be available in paper copy during curriculum information meetings.

Class/Subject Programme

Primary and Secondary School: Class teachers, Curriculum Booklets, Managebac (Secondary School), Curriculum Information Meetings, Learning Review Conferences

Student Progress

Primary School and Secondary School: Report Cards, e-mail correspondence, postcards of praise, Managebac (Years 10-13), Learning Review Conferences, Homework Diary (Years 3-13), Engage Parent Portal, assemblies and presentation evenings, additional conferences as requested by teacher or parent, informal (short) chats and meetings with parents.

Dress and Appearance Code: Nursery - Year 6

Ordering details: http://www.britishschoolofwashington.org/Parents/UniformEquipment All learners are expected to take pride in their appearance by:

Wearing the correct uniform and clearly labelling each item with full name or first initial/last name.

Wearing correctly colored tights, socks and shoes.

Keeping uniforms in good repair, hemmed, and appropriately fitted. Overly faded, stretched out, or shrunken items that no longer look smart or blend in with the uniform colors should be replaced.

Maintaining good grooming and health habits to achieve a clean and tidy appearance.

Making sure that hair should does not fall on to the face or over eyes.

Not wearing makeup, visible tattoos/transfers, nail polish, or jewellery.

Arriving at school fully dressed and organised.

NAMES ON UNIFORM AND OTHER ITEMS It is vitally important that all uniform items (new and used) and bags be clearly labelled with the first initial and last name, preferably with nametapes. Laundry pens or laundry marking stamps are acceptable alternatives on items difficult to label with nametapes. Information on how to purchase these items is available in Appendix E. Please ensure that names stay clear and do not fade throughout the school year.

Nursery Summer Uniform Requirements (Summer Term to Autumn Mid-Term Break)

Nursery Boys and Girls: Flynn & O’Hara House color T-shirt with white silk screen BSW logo

Flynn & O’Hara navy fleece PE shorts or Flynn & O’Hara unpleated navy skort for girls

Plain white or navy socks without designs

Plain white or dark blue or black trainers. VELCRO fasteners only. No flashing lights.

Navy blue hat with BSW logo or blue bucket style sunhat (School Office)

Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End navy sweatshirt with BSW logo and navy sweatpants (if cool)

L.L.Bean Junior Original Book Pack in red with logo #71458 and white Block Upper Case initials (no full names) Telephone orders only: 1-800-832-1889

‘Outdoor Learning Kit’ (L.L.Bean rain jacket, pants, and boots) Telephone: 1-800-832-1889 or order on-line.

Nursery Winter Uniform Requirements (After Autumn Mid-Term Break to end of Spring Term)

Nursery Boys and Girls: Flynn & O’Hara House color T-shirt with white silk screen BSW logo

Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End navy sweatshirt with BSW logo and navy sweatpants

Plain white or navy socks without designs

Plain white or dark blue or black trainers. VELCRO fasteners only. No flashing lights.

Red fleece with full length zipper and BSW round logo (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Red or navy overcoat (personal choice in style)

L.L.Bean Junior Original Book Pack in red with logo #71458 and white Block Upper Case initials (no full names) Telephone orders only: 1-800-832-1889

Outdoor Learning Kit (L.L.Bean Rain Jacket, pants, and boots). Telephone: 1-800-832-1889 or order on line.

Optional Items: Scarf in House color (School office)

Winter navy knit hat with BSW logo (School office)

Reception - Year 2 (PK-Grade 1) Summer Uniform Requirements

(Summer Term to Autumn Mid-Term Break) Primary Boys:

Red short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW logo*

Smart solid navy trousers (no cargo style with pockets)*

Flynn & O’Hara smart solid navy shorts (no cargo style with pockets)*

Red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or V-neck sweater vest with BSW round logo*

Plain navy blue socks

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. Sandals with socks. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Navy blue cap with BSW round logo (School office)

Water bottle, named (brought daily)

‘Outdoor Learning Kit’ (L.L.Bean rain jacket, pants, and boots) Telephone 1-800-832-1889 or order on-line.

*Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only.

Primary Girls: Land’s End red cotton mesh dress with BSW round school logo

Flynn & O’Hara navy unpleated skort with front panel

Smart solid navy trousers (no cargo style with pockets)*

Flynn & O’Hara smart solid navy shorts (Land’s End cotton option not available)

Red short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW round logo

Red five button cardigan with BSW round logo or red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo*

Plain navy or white ankle socks (no designs)

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. Sandals with socks. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Navy blue cap with BSW round logo (School office)

Water bottle, named (brought daily)

‘Outdoor Learning Kit’ (L.L. Bean rain jacket, pants, and boots) Telephone 1-800-832-1889 or order on-line.

*Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only. Optional Items for boys and girls:

Flynn & O’Hara navy cotton lined windproof jacket with BSW round logo

Solid black or navy belt Year Round Bag Requirements:

L.L.Bean ORIGINAL Book Pack® in red with white block uppercase initials and logo number 71458. Telephone orders only: 1-800-832-1889

Cobalt blue drawstring PE bag with BSW logo (School office)

Reception - Year 2 (Pre-School to Grade 1) Winter Uniform Requirements (After Autumn Mid-Term Break to end of Spring Term)

Primary Boys:

Red long- or short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW round logo*

Smart solid navy trousers. No corduroy or cargo pocket style*

Red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or V-neck sleeveless sweater / vest with BSW logo*

Navy blue socks only

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Red fleece with full length zipper and BSW round logo*

Solid navy or red winter jacket or coat (individual choice but Land’s End option available)

‘Outdoor Learning Kit’ (L.L.Bean rain jacket, pants, and boots) Telephone 1-800-832-1889 or order on-line.

* Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only

Primary Girls: Navy Flynn & O’Hara two button four kick pleated pinafore dress (called a “Drop Waist Jumper”)

Smart solid navy trousers (No corduroy or cargo pocket style)*

Navy Flynn & O’Hara unpleated skort with front panel

Red long- or short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW round logo*

Red five button cardigan with BSW logo or red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo*

Plain white or navy blue socks; plain red or navy tights (No white or patterned tights)

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Red fleece with full length zipper and BSW round logo*

Solid navy or red winter jacket or coat (individual choice but Land’s End option available)

‘Outdoor Learning Kit’ (L.L.Bean rain jacket, pants, and boots) Telephone 1-800-832-1889 or order on-line .

* Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only

Optional items for Boys and Girls:

Red, navy or white turtlenecks/rollnecks

Solid black or navy belt

Scarf in House color (School office)

Winter navy knit hat with BSW logo (School office)

Wet/cold weather: Children are required to wear winter boots to and from school and must wear them during outdoor breaks. Every effort is made to go outside during wet/cold weather for playtimes, so children must dress appropriately. Please pack an indoor pair of shoes on those days.

Primary PE Uniform: Reception - Year 2 (Pre-Kindergarten – Grade 1)

Boys & Girls: House color T-shirt with BSW white silk screen logo (Flynn & O’Hara only)

Solid navy nylon mesh PE shorts (Flynn & O’Hara only)

Navy sweatpants (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End)

Navy sweatshirt with BSW round logo (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End)

Solid white athletic socks

Plain white or black sports trainers with non-marking soles. No fashion trainers or flashing lights.

Cobalt blue draw string sport bag with BSW round logo (School office)

Summer Uniform Requirements: Year 3 – Year 6

(After Spring Break to Autumn Half Term)

Primary Boys: Red short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW logo*

Smart solid navy trousers (no cargo style with pockets)*

Flynn & O’Hara smart solid navy shorts (no cargo style with pockets)*

Red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or V-neck sweater vest with BSW round logo*

Plain navy blue socks

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. Sandals with socks. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Navy blue cap with BSW round logo (School office)

Water bottle named (brought daily) *Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only.

Primary Girls: Land’s End red cotton mesh dress with BSW round school logo

Flynn & O’Hara navy unpleated skort with front panel

Smart solid navy trousers (no cargo style with pockets)*

Flynn & O’Hara smart solid navy shorts (Land’s End cotton option not available)

Red short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW round logo

Red five button cardigan with BSW round logo or red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo*

Plain navy or white ankle socks (no designs)

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. Sandals with socks. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Navy blue cap with BSW round logo (School office)

Water bottle, named (brought daily)

*Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only.

Optional Items for Boys and Girls: Flynn & O’Hara navy cotton lined windproof jacket with BSW round logo

Solid black or navy belt Year Round Bag Requirements:

Backpack (individual choice)

Cobalt blue small PE duffle with BSW round logo (School office)

Winter Uniform Requirements: Year 3 – Year 6 (After Autumn Half Term to End of Spring Term)

Primary Boys: Red long- or short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW round logo*

Smart solid navy trousers (No corduroy or cargo pocket style)*

Red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or V-neck sleeveless sweater / vest with BSW logo*

Navy blue socks only

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Red fleece with full length zipper and BSW round logo*

Solid navy or red winter jacket or coat (individual choice but Land’s End option available)

* Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only.

Primary Girls: Navy Flynn & O’Hara two button four kick pleated pinafore dress (called a “Drop Waist Jumper”)

Smart solid navy trousers (No corduroy or cargo pocket style)*

Navy Flynn & O’Hara unpleated skort with front panel

Navy Flynn & O’Hara Secondary four pleated skirt (Option for Year 6 only)

Red long- or short-sleeved polo shirt with BSW round logo*

Red five button cardigan with BSW logo or red V-neck sweater with BSW round logo*

Plain white or navy blue socks; plain red or navy tights (No white or patterned tights)

Black or navy polishable or suede shoes. No sports shoes or sneakers.

Red fleece with full length zipper and BSW round logo*

Solid navy or red winter jacket or coat (individual choice but Land’s End option available)

*Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options only.

Optional items for Boys and Girls: Red, navy or white turtlenecks/rollnecks

Solid black or navy belt

Scarf in House color (School office)

Winter navy knit hat with BSW logo (School office)

Wet/cold weather: Children are required to wear winter boots to and from school and must wear them during outdoor breaks. Every effort is made to go outside during wet/cold weather for playtimes, so children must dress appropriately. Please pack an indoor pair of shoes on those days.

Primary PE Uniform:

Boys & Girls: House color T-shirt with BSW white silk screen logo (Only Flynn & O’Hara)

Solid navy nylon mesh PE shorts (Only Flynn & O’Hara)

Navy sweatpants (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End)

Navy sweatshirt with BSW round logo (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End)

Solid white athletic socks

Plain white or black sports trainers with non-marking soles. No fashion trainers or flashing lights.

Cobalt blue small PE duffle with BSW round logo (School office)

Additional Requirements:

Soccer and Hockey Shin guards with navy soccer socks (compulsory for soccer)

A mouth guard is strongly recommended for hockey and rugby

Jelleff soccer pitch - cleats or trainers

Swimming Boys- plain navy or black above the knee swim shorts

Girls- one piece plain blue or black swimsuit, swim caps for long hair The following styles are recommended:

Boys: US supplier: ClubSwim Boy's Water Short, Approved Colour: Black Swim Outlet: http://tinyurl.com/3oecpkv UK Supplier: Speedo (UK) Boys’ Solid Leisure 15" Water Short, or Boys' Challenge 15" Water Short Approved Colour: Black Speedo (UK): http://tinyurl.com/2uelbgf

Girls: Land’s End School Uniform Girls' Y-back Tugless Tank Swimsuit Approved Colours: Black or Navy Other options include: www.swimoutlet.com (i.e. Girl’s Club Swim Wide Strap Suit), www.sportsauthority.com (i.e. Boy’s Dolfin Water Short, or Girl’s Dolfin HP Back Guard Swimsuit)

Dress and Appearance Code: Year 7- Year 11

Ordering details: http://www.britishschoolofwashington.org/Parents/UniformEquipment All learners are expected to take pride in their appearance by:

Wearing the correct uniform and clearly labelling each item with full name or first initial/last name.

Ensuring that shirts/blouses are tucked in, top buttons fastened, ties are of proper length, knotted at the neck.

Wearing the correct colour tights, socks, and shoes.

Keeping uniforms in good repair, hemmed, and appropriately fitted. Overly faded, stretched out, or shrunken items that no longer look smart or blend in with the uniform colours should be replaced.

Not wearing makeup, visible tattoos/transfers, or nail polish.

Wearing no bracelets (unless for medical reasons), and limiting jewellery to one watch, one stud or small sleeper in each ear, and a single necklace under a shirt.

Maintaining good grooming and health habits to achieve a clean and tidy appearance.

Making sure that hair should does not fall on to the face or over eyes and should be tied back for PE, DT, and Science lessons. No severe Mohawks or spiked hair allowed (smart faux hawks are fine).

Making sure that any hair colouring falls within subtle, natural tones.

Arriving at school fully dressed and organised.

Summer Uniform Requirements: Year 7- Year 9 (After Spring Break to Autumn Half Term)

Secondary Boys:

White long- or short-sleeved Oxford style button down or solid white dress shirt

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Smart solid navy trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Smart solid navy shorts. No cargo style with pockets. (Flynn & O’Hara recommended)

Solid black or navy belt

Solid black or navy socks

Smart formal solid black or navy leather shoes or sandals. No trainer style. Socks must be worn with sandals.

Optional Items:

Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or navy V-neck sweater vest with BSW round logo (No pullover or zipped up sweatshirts with hoods)

Secondary Girls: Solid white long or short sleeve Oxford button down or solid white dress shirt with long or three

quarter length sleeves (Flynn & O’Hara recommended)

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Flynn & O’Hara navy four kick pleated skirt (no more than 2" above the knee)

Smart solid navy trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Flynn & O’Hara navy skort with front and back panel

Solid white, navy, or black ankle or crew socks. No designs.

Smart formal solid black or navy leather shoes or sandals. No trainer style. Heels not to exceed 1.5". Shoes/sandals must be worn with socks or natural tights

Optional Items for Boys and Girls: Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo

Solid black or navy belt

Winter Uniform Requirements: Year 7- Year 9 (After Autumn Half Term to end of Spring Term)

Secondary Boys:

Solid white long or short sleeved Oxford button down or solid white dress shirt

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or navy V-neck sleeveless sweater/vest with BSW round logo*

Smart solid navy trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Solid black or navy belt

Solid black or navy socks

Smart formal solid black or navy leather shoes or sandals. No trainer style. Boots to be worn under trousers.

Solid color winter coats with only small lettering or logos (no pullover or zip up sweatshirts with hoods)

Solid color winter caps or knit hats

Secondary Girls: Solid white long or short sleeved Oxford button down or solid white dress shirt

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Flynn & O’Hara navy four kick pleated skirt (no more than 2" above the knee)

Smart solid navy trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Flynn & O’Hara solid navy skort with front and back panel

Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo, or five button navy cardigan with BSW round logo*

Solid white, black, or navy socks; plain navy or natural tights (no designs)

Smart formal solid black or navy leather shoes or sandals. No trainer style (heels not to exceed 1.5")

Solid color winter coats with only small lettering or logos ((no pullover or zip up sweatshirts with hoods)

Solid color winter caps or knit hats * Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options are available.

Optional Items:

Navy fleece with full-length zipper and BSW logo (Flynn & O’Hara or Lands End only)

Scarf in House color (School office)

Solid black or navy belt

Non-Uniform Outerwear: Non-uniform outerwear may not be worn inside the building and must be hung in lockers during the day. Pullover or zipped up sweatshirts with hoods or scruffy winter coats and jackets are not acceptable outerwear and should not be worn to school.

Secondary PE Uniform:

Boys & Girls House color T-shirt with white silk screen BSW logo (Flynn & O’Hara colors only)

Land’s End navy PE shorts with double white stripe along the side (no logo required)*

Land’s End navy athletic jacket with double white stripe and BSW logo

Land’s End navy athletic pants with double white stripe along sides (no logo required)

White athletic socks

Navy soccer socks

Plain white or black sport trainers with non-marking soles. No fashion trainers.

Cobalt blue small or large PE dufflewith BSW logo (School office)

*Land’s End has several styles. Please select the non-mesh style with thin double white vertical lines (waist to hem).

Additional Requirements:

Soccer and Hockey Shin guards with navy soccer socks (compulsory for soccer)

A mouth guard is strongly recommended for hockey and rugby

Jelleff soccer pitch - cleats or trainers

Swimming: Swimwear required for Years 7-8 students during one half term only.

Boys- plain navy or black above the knee swim shorts

Girls- one piece plain blue or black swimsuit, swim caps for long hair The following styles are recommended:

Boys: US supplier: ClubSwim Boy's Water Short, Approved Colour: Black Swim Outlet: http://tinyurl.com/3oecpkv UK Supplier: Speedo (UK) Boys’ Solid Leisure 15" Water Short, or Boys' Challenge 15" Water Short Approved Colour: Black Speedo (UK): http://tinyurl.com/2uelbgf Other options include: www.swimoutlet.com (i.e. Girl’s Club Swim Wide Strap Suit), www.sportsauthority.com (i.e. Boy’s Dolfin Water Short, or Girl’s Dolfin HP Back Guard Swimsuit)

Girls: Land’s End School Uniform Girls' Y-back Tugless Tank Swimsuit Approved Colours: Black or Navy

Summer Uniform Requirements: Year 10-Year 11 (After Spring Break to Autumn Half Term)

Ordering details: http://www.britishschoolofwashington.org/Parents/UniformEquipment

Secondary Boys:

White long- or short-sleeved Oxford style button down or solid white dress shirt

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Smart solid black trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Smart solid black shorts. No cargo style with pockets. (Flynn & O’Hara recommended)

Solid black belt

Solid black socks

Solid black leather shoes or sandals. Socks must be worn with sandals.

Optional Items: Black V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or black V-neck sweater vest with BSW round logo (No pullover or zipped up sweatshirts with hoods)

Secondary Girls:

Solid white long or short sleeve Oxford button down or solid white dress shirt with long or three quarter length sleeves (Flynn & O’Hara recommended)

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Smart solid black straight, or pleated skirt (not noticeably tight) - individual choice but no more than 2” above the knee. (Strictly enforced)*

Flynn & O’Hara black skort with front and back panel

Solid white or black ankle/crew socks. No patterns.

Black leather shoes or sandals (not to exceed 1.5" and must be worn with socks or natural tights)

Optional Items: Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo

Solid black belt

Winter Uniform Requirements: Year 10- Year 11 (After Autumn Half Term to end of Spring Term)

Secondary Boys: Solid white long or short sleeved Oxford button down or solid white dress shirt

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo or navy V-neck sleeveless sweater/vest with BSW round logo (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options are available)

Smart solid black trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Solid black belt

Solid black socks

Solid black or navy leather shoes. Boots to be worn under trousers. No sneakers or trainers.

Solid color winter coats with only small lettering or logos (no pullover or zip up sweatshirts with hoods)

Solid color winter caps or knit hats

Secondary Girls: Solid white long or short sleeved Oxford button down or solid white dress shirt

Flynn & O’Hara BSW red/navy striped tie (Also available at School office)

Smart solid black straight, or pleated skirt (not noticeably tight) - individual choice but no more than 2” above the knee. (Strictly enforced)*

Smart solid black trousers (Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End only)

Flynn & O’Hara solid black skort with front and back panel

Navy V-neck sweater with BSW round logo, or five button navy cardigan with BSW round logo*

Solid white or black socks; plain black or natural tights (no designs)

Solid black leather shoes (heels not to exceed 1.5")

Solid color winter coats with only small lettering or logos ((no pullover or zip up sweatshirts with hoods)

Solid color winter caps or knit hats * Flynn & O’Hara or Land’s End options are available.

Optional items for boys and girls: Navy fleece with full-length zipper and BSW logo (Flynn & O’Hara or Lands End only)

Scarf in House colors (BSW office)

Solid black belt

Non-uniform outerwear for boys and girls: Non-uniform outerwear may not be worn inside the building and must be hung in lockers during the day. Pullover or zipped up sweatshirts with hoods or scruffy winter coats and jackets are not acceptable outerwear and should not be worn to school.

Secondary PE Uniform:

Boys & Girls: House color T-shirt with white silk screen BSW logo (Flynn & O’Hara colors only)

Land’s End navy PE shorts with double white stripe along the side (no logo required)*

Land’s End navy athletic jacket with double white stripe and BSW logo

Land’s End navy athletic pants with double white stripe along sides (no logo required)

White athletic socks

Navy soccer socks

Plain white or black sport trainers with non-marking soles. No fashion trainers.

Cobalt blue small or large PE duffle bag with BSW logo (School office)

*Please note: Land’s End has several styles. Please select the non-mesh style with thin double white vertical lines (waist to hem).

Additional Requirements: Soccer and Hockey

Shin guards with navy soccer socks (compulsory for soccer)

A mouth guard is strongly recommended for hockey and rugby

Jelleff soccer pitch - cleats or trainers

Dress and Appearance Code: Year 12 & 13 Students in Year 12 - 13 have a dress code rather than a uniform. The school considers IBDP students to be young adults on the verge of entering the professional world and the Dress Code below is designed to reflect this. Students should wear smart and tidy business wear at all times. Whilst students have the right to dress as individuals, they must appreciate their responsibility for the reputation of the school and for setting examples of professionalism as well as serving as role models to younger students. Young Men

Formal tailored trousers

Business short or long sleeved shirts tucked into waistbands

Ties knotted at the neck and the top shirt button fastened

Formal tailored jackets

V-neck sweaters

Formal leather dress shoes or dress boots Young Women

Tailored trousers

Smart short or long sleeve tops, shirts, or blouses worn at a modest level

Dresses or skirts (no higher than 3 inches above the knee)

Roll neck or V neck sweaters

Tailored jackets

Formal leather dress shoes or dress boots (heels no higher than 2 inches)

Black, navy or natural tights or socks

Scarves and ties may be worn General Appearance Hair should not fall on to face or over eyes. Hair colouring should fall within subtle, natural tones. Hair must be tied back for PE, DT, and Science lessons. Girls can wear light make up and discreet nail polish. Jewellery is limited to a single necklace, a bracelet and/or ring, and one pair of small earrings. Winter Outerwear Smart winter coats and accessories should be worn only. Winter outerwear should be stored in lockers during the day. Pullover or zipped up sweatshirts with hoods or scruffy winter coats and jackets are not acceptable outerwear and should not be worn to school. Ugg style boots may only be worn to and from school, and during outdoor breaks but must be stored in lockers during classes.

Unacceptable Styles Jeans; cargo pants; pullover or zip-up sweatshirts with hoods; halter tops or dresses; clingy, grungy, transparent or gauzy fabrics; sportswear; trainers/sneakers or athletic shoes; baggy socks; Ugg style boots; flimsy cloth ballerina shoes; beach wear; flip-flops; visible tattoos/transfers; severe Mohawks or spiked hair (smart faux hawks are fine); PE kit with words or phrases on back of sweatpants. Midriffs and cleavage must be covered. No strappy tops allowed.

Specific Subject Requirements Lab coats are required in IB Science courses. The Science Department organises the ordering of lab coats and students can purchase them directly from the school.

PE Uniform:

Smart sports T-shirt in white or solid primary house colours (individual choice)

Land’s End navy PE shorts with double white stripe or navy PE shorts (individual choice)

Land’s End navy athletic jacket (with BSW logo) and pants with double white strip or navy tracksuit (individual choice)

White athletic socks

Navy soccer socks

Plain white or black sport trainers with non-marking soles (no fashion trainers) Additional Requirements: Soccer and Hockey

Shin guards with navy soccer socks (compulsory for soccer)

A mouth guard is strongly recommended for hockey and rugby

Jelleff soccer pitch - cleats or trainers

Ordering details: http://www.britishschoolofwashington.org/Parents/UniformEquipment

Equipment List for Students in Years 6 and Above

The school provides general text books, exercise books, diaries, and other resources where required. However, in addition to uniform items, it is expected that pupils and students in Years 6 and above will provide their own stationery and any additional class resources required by individual subjects. The purpose of this is to ensure they develop good organisational skills and are not reliant on their teachers for support in this area.

Please support the school in helping teachers to increase the independence of their pupils and students in their work by ensuring that they have the following items at a minimum:

Pens x2 (blue or black only, no biros in Year 6) Pencils x2 Ruler (30 cm) Eraser Coloured pencils Pencil sharpener Scissors Glue stick Calculator (Not required in Year 6. Check with Math teacher for specifications in Year 7 and above) Protractor and compass (Year 7 and above) A USB stick with name on it (Year 7 and above) All students in KS2 -3 should have their supplies in pencil cases with their names on it.

Years 10-13 are REQUIRED to bring laptop computers (Key Stage 3 students may bring laptops to school as an option.) The school, however, takes no responsibility for the computers, and it is up to each individual teacher as to whether they can be used in class. Laptop computers as a minimum must have the basic Microsoft Office 2007 software loaded and available to use, as well as Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Draft August 10, 2011

Lockers and Security of Personal Items The school provides facilities to store personal items, but all learners are ultimately responsible for the secure storage of their belongings. The school accepts no liability for either loss or damage which may occur on the school premises. Personal items and clothing should have a clearly identifiable name written on them. Foundation Stage children have open cubbies for individual use within the classroom. Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils have their own lockers where items can be stored. These lockers remain unlocked and pupils should not store personal valuable objects in them. Magnetic items can be used in lockers from Year 6 and up but nothing that would be permanently fixed to the locker. All Secondary Section students have lockers for which they may bring an approved lock. In the case of a combination style lock, the codes must be given to form tutors before the lock is used. In the case of a key style lock, a duplicate of the key must be given to the form tutor before the lock is used. All lockers should be cleared of perishable items at the end of the school week. All lockers should be left open at half-term and vacations. If the code is not available, the locker will be forced open.

Lost Property Policy

All items must be clearly marked with the owner’s full name or first initial/last name (except for Reception-Yr 2 backpacks which require initials). Name tapes should be placed on clothing and other items may be labeled with a marker.

Mislaid clothing and other items will be collected at the end of each week and placed in a box in the Front Office, where they may be claimed.

Clearly named items will be returned to their owners. All other items will be given to charity at the end of each term.

Homework Policy We believe that homework is an important part of school life helping students to achieve their potential. Such work should be designed to be an effective and beneficial part of, and aid, to the learning process and should reinforce the academic achievements of the student. Homework is seen as an integral and important part of the school’s home liaison strategy and of a partnership between teachers, students and parents.

Primary School Section Homework Policy Homework is regarded as being an essential part of the overall programme at BSW. The need for play and relaxation time is recognised, but the school also considers the skills of self-discipline and time management worth acquiring at an early age.

Children in the Nursery and Reception take home reading books and letter cards when the teacher feels it is appropriate.

Year 1 and 2 pupils take home reading books each day (books are changed on Monday, Wednesday and Friday). In addition they have one or two pieces of homework each week focusing on Literacy, Mathematics or their IPC topic.

Year 3-6 pupils receive one piece of homework in Literacy and Mathematics each week. In addition, they receive one piece of homework for the IPC topic and a piece from their language teacher. Pupils are provided with a homework diary in which they record all assignments.

Recommended study times:

Year 1 - 2: 20 minutes per school night Year 3 - 4: *40 minutes per school night Year 5 - 6: **60 minutes per school night

*Year 3 and 4 - 20 minutes reading and 20 minutes of Literacy, Maths, IPC and languages each week **Year 5 and 6 - 30 minutes reading and 30 minutes of Literacy, Maths, IPC and languages each week

Secondary School Section Homework Policy The goal of our homework policy is to ensure that our students’ learning is improved through timely and targeted homework. Therefore, in years 7-13, a minimum of one teacher assessed piece of homework, lasting approximately one hour, will be set every two weeks for each student in every subject studied except PE. This is a minimum requirement and teachers may use their judgement to include additional homework (particularly when preparing for the IGCSE and IB examinations). Learning Leaders will monitor the setting of homework on a regular basis. Students and their parents in Years 7 - 9 can view homework assignments assigned by logging on the electronically to https://bsw.managebac.com/login. Additionally, students in Years 10-13, communicate with their teachers through the Managebac system as a means to organize their work, upload assignments and receive feedback from their teachers. In order to use the system, students in Years 10-13 have to sign up with their own personal email accounts, which will be arranged at the time of enrolment. For more information, contact Daniel George (Upper School Learning Leader).

Student Rights and Responsibilities

It is our aim to nurture well-balanced, mature, and respectful individuals who are able to take responsibility for their own actions and who will grow to be valued member of our international community. All learners at BSW are encouraged to recognise that rights bring with them equivalent responsibilities, and so rights are balanced against responsibilities in the following ways.

Rights

Responsibilities

Health & Safety

To work in a suitably safe and clean environment

To act in a way that does not affect the health and safety of others

Learning

To reach full potential as a learner

To respect the rights of others to learn

Treatment

To be treated fairly and respectfully

To treat others fairly and respectfully

Problem Solving

To settle problems on one’s own without verbal or physical aggression To ask for help in solving problems

To settle problems without verbal or physical aggression

Movement

To be able to move around the premises easily and safely

To move quietly and not disturb others

Communication

To take part in learning activities To hear instructions

To work quietly and use a reasonable tone of voice

Appropriate and Inappropriate Behaviour and Consequences We expect children, pupils and students to behave, both in and out of school, in a courteous manner that will bring respect and honour to the school, their families, and their own communities. The guidelines below for appropriate and inappropriate behaviour and consequences are designed to support everyone in achieving this goal.

Primary School Section Behaviour Expectation Guidelines Appropriate Behaviour Positive reinforcement and praise will be given to those:

who are cooperative and considerate of others

who follow school and safety rules

who share

who solve their own problems if possible

who are courteous

who work co-operatively as well as independently

who use materials and equipment in an appropriate way

who are responsible

who make sensible choices with their behaviour

Student Code of Conduct

1. I will ensure that my conduct reflects well on the school at all times.

2. I will respect the rights of all learners to learn and teachers to teach.

3. I will show respect for others’ property, the school’s equipment and environment

4. I will listen to instructions and respect others’ opinions

5. I will give everyone a fair turn and put up my hand to ask or answer questions

6. I will observe the safety precautions in the various different departments

7. I will walk around the school and will not run and remember to be calm, stop and not to push forward when in crowded areas

Rewards for Appropriate Behaviour

Rewards and consequences will always be appropriate and consistent for the age and maturity of the pupil. In addition to verbal praise and the opportunity to share work with a person of their choice, the following certificates, trophies and badges are awarded.

Certificates and Badges Each Primary pupil is given a sticker chart, with the exception of Nursery age children who receive stickers on their sweaters for hard work or good behaviour. On completion of a sticker chart (25 stickers) 5 points will be awarded to the child’s House and the child will receive a certificate presented in Achievement Assembly. When a child receives 3 certificates, they receive a merit badge in their House colour and an additional 25 points is added to their House points. Upon completing 6 sticker charts, a Gold Award (special certificate and gold award badge) is awarded and an additional 25 points is added to their House points.

Weekly Achievement Certificates Weekly Achievement Certificates are awarded to Primary pupils. This may be for an act of kindness, positive behaviour or an academic achievement and is worth 5 House points. The reason for the certificate is shared by the child's class teacher in the weekly Achievement Assembly.

Trophies Class trophies are awarded at the final half-term assembly to a member of each class for portraying evidence of good behaviour, good work or an improvement in behaviour/work. This award is accompanied by a letter written by the class teacher detailing the reason for awarding the trophy. A trophy (given each half-term) is worth 40 points.

Subject Trophies Subject Trophies, accompanied by a written commendation, are given annually for excellent progress in a curricular subject and are nominated by staff. Subject Awards given at the end of the school year and are worth 100 points.

House Competitions Primary pupils compete in various House competitions in areas such as sports, music, chess, and art. Pupils earn points for their Houses as follows: 1st place: 100; 2nd place: 75; 3rd place: 50 and 4th place: 25. Pupils also earn “participation points” for representing the school in sports teams and on Student Council.

Consequences for Inappropriate Behaviour

BSW believes that consequences consistently and firmly applied will result in boundaries being clearly drawn and therefore good behaviour promoted.

Stage One:

A Choice - When a learner does not respond to an initial instruction, teachers may give them a choice. This produces a positive outcome and does not permit a ‘No’ for an answer. Time Out – Teachers may encourage a learner who is behaving unacceptably to take a little time away from the others in the group or the activity that they are working on. Once they have had a few minutes to calm down they are then invited to rejoin their friends. Discussion with parents - If unsatisfactory behaviour continues, then the class teacher will inform the parents. Exclusion - When the safety or health of others is compromised, the learner will be required to go home for the rest of the day and return when ready to begin learning again.

Stage Two:

lf the behaviour issue is serious or persistent, then the teacher will refer the matter to the Head of School or Deputy Head. This may necessitate an internal exclusion (working away from the class for a day) or it may mean placing the child on a Behaviour Contract. Targets will be set and the school and parents will agree upon evaluation dates. The results of the conference will be recorded and the Head of School will be informed. A positive response on the part of the learner will be recognised.

The referrer will initiate this procedure when one or more of the following have been displayed:

Serious fighting

Any form of bullying behaviour

Sexual harassment

Bad language

Defiance

Damaging school or others’ property

Persistent dishonesty

Cheating (which includes plagiarism)

Persistent failure to follow rules for health requirements

Stage Three:

Exclusion - Exclusion is an extreme step and will only be taken in cases where;

An incident of extreme seriousness has occurred and all parties need a short period to consider the best course of action.

Long term misbehaviour is not responding to the strategies and the safety and learning of others is being seriously hindered. In such cases, the learner will be considered to have special behavioural needs.

BSW will not maintain a place in school for any learner if the serious behaviour continues.

Secondary School Section Behaviour Expectation Guidelines

Appropriate Behaviour It is our aim to nurture well-balanced, mature individuals who are able to take responsibility for their own actions and who will grow to be valued members of the international community. Each form tutor reviews with their students the following Code of Conduct, as well as the Guidelines for Reinforcement of Student Behaviour Expectations at BSW at the beginning of the school year.

Secondary Section Student Code of Conduct

I will ensure that my conduct reflects well on myself and the school at all times.

I will respect the rights of all students to learn and the teachers to teach.

I will show respect for others’ property, the school’s equipment and environment.

I will listen to instructions and respect others’ opinions.

I will put up my hand to ask or answer questions.

I will observe the safety precautions in the various different departments.

I will move around the school quietly and sensibly at all times.

I will be prompt for all school commitments.

HUMBLE Behaviour Tracking System (Years 7 – 9) One of these successes has been the introduction of the HUMBLE system for minor behavior and low level infractions. In this system, the secondary teachers have an easy way of recording the following misdemeanors: 1. Homework (either lack of or incomplete)

2. Uniform (including the wearing of jewelry and make up, please see the school handbook for further details)

3. Mobile phone or any other electronic device

4. Behavior (minor only, rare major behavior issues are dealt in a separate system)

5. Lateness to lessons

6. Equipment (lack of pen, pencil, ruler, planner, calculator etc.)

Teachers record an H, U, M etc. in the students’ planners with their initials and form tutors record these infractions on a weekly basis. If a student is HUMBLE free, on any week, they currently receive 3 bonus commendations. The commendations add up to make certificates and prizes.

Form Tutors and the Pastoral Leaders regularly review HUMBLES on a weekly and half-termly basis to notice patterns and to help support those students who may require more help with aspects such as organization and study skills. Students who receive 3 of the same HUMBLES in a week (or a combination of 3 B’s and H’s) will be given a lunchtime detention of 30 minutes. Parents will be notified through the homework diary.

On rare occasions, as a result of the HUMBLE monitoring process or due to a serious breach of the rules and trust established in the school, it may be necessary to put a student on report with specific targets. On such occasions teachers keep in touch with the form tutor and the Key Stage Coordinator through the report system to ensure that students are attaining and exceeding the targets set.

They KS3 team talk regularly and work together to ensure that no one slips our protective net. The students, in the main, appreciate the consistency and fairness of the system.

Students are given as much responsibility as is appropriate for the age of the young adults under our care. However, as we take our role as loco parentis extremely seriously and the HUMBLE system is used to ensure that our students are aware that they are being supported and shaped into adults who can be trusted and make a positive impact in their communities.

Rewards for Appropriate Behaviour

In addition to verbal praise and written communication to parents, the following commendations and rewards will be issued weekly to students who stand out for their positive achievements:

Commendations Commendations will be awarded in Years 7 – 9 for a range of positive achievements. For example:

a particularly good piece of work completed in class or at home

consistent efforts in class

making a contribution to the life of the school community in or outside of school The following awards will be given out in assembly for acquiring the following:

15 Commendations An Achievement Certificate

25 Commendations 10 House Points and an Achievement Certificate

50 Commendations 25 House Points and an Achievement Certificate

100 Commendations 15 House Points, a $15 voucher, an Achievement certificate and a House merit badge

200 Commendations 25 points, $20 voucher and an Achievement certificate.

Points (Years 10 – 13) Points will be awarded to students in Years 10-13 for a range of positive achievements. For example:

· Half-termly performance in classes

· A particularly good piece of work completed in class or at home

· Consistent efforts in class

· Making a contribution to the life of the school community in or outside of school These points will be accumulated and will lead to a range of awards, as agreed by the students and the Pastoral Leaders.

Subject Certificates Every half term certificates are awarded by subject teachers to an individual who has made an outstanding effort or made excellent progress in that area. Each certificate awarded is worth 35 points.

Tutor Trophies Tutor Trophies will be awarded half-termly to one member of each tutor group for his or her valuable contribution to tutor life. This trophy (given each half term) is worth 40 points.

Subject Trophies Subject Trophies will be accompanied by a written commendation will be given annually for excellent progress in a curricular subject nominated by staff. Subject Awards given at the end of the whole school session are worth 100 points.

Inappropriate Behaviour Consequences for Inappropriate Behaviour When students disobey school rules, they will always be given the opportunity to explain their actions and to reflect upon what they have done. The teacher involved will counsel students on appropriate ways to deal with a problem.

However, if a student chooses not to accept his/her responsibilities or impinges on the rights of others, the school’s disciplinary procedure will be followed:

For minor infractions, initial corrective measures will be taken by the classroom teacher.

In the case of a persistent minor problem or more serious infractions as outlined below, parents will be informed and a conference scheduled to develop a home-school strategy for behavioural change. Targets will be set and the school and parents will agree upon evaluation dates. The results of the

conference will be recorded and the Head of School will be informed. A positive response on the part of the student will be recognised.

Consequences of Severe Inappropriate Behaviour Severe inappropriate behaviour includes:

Disrespect – refusal to co-operate, talking back, harassment, bullying, and swearing

Verbal or physical abuse – fighting, throwing objects, and verbal insults

Offences against property – damaging school or others’ property and taking things which belong to someone else.

Persistent dishonesty

Cheating (which includes plagiarism)

Inappropriate and/or illegal driving

Offensive internet behaviour toward others (through e-mailing, texting, IM, Facebook, My Space, Twitter etc.)

The consequences of severe inappropriate behaviour are:

Any severe inappropriate behaviour will result in the offender being sent to the administration.

The student will either be excluded from the remainder of the lesson, the remainder of the day (in school suspension), or suspended from school immediately and sent home for the infractions of verbal or physical abuse or offences against property.

The student’s parents will be informed. A Behaviour Contract may be drawn up where appropriate.

A record of the student’s behaviour and action taken will be kept in the student’s file.

A conference will be scheduled to develop a home-school strategy for behavioural change.

Persistent Offenders A student who exhibits irresponsible or inappropriate behaviour may be suspended for a period of 1 to 3 days. Parents will be informed in advance of a suspension and a conference called.

A suspended student may not return to school until a meeting has been held to discuss the issues. In this case, parents will be asked to agree to and sign a Behaviour Contract. The student will be informed of the targets of the Behaviour Contract in a meeting with the Head of School in the presence of his/her parents. In some cases, a Behaviour Contract may be used as an alternative to suspension. Failure to respond to the targets set in the Behaviour Contract will result in expulsion.

Illegal Activities The following are classed as illegal activities:

Possession of alcohol, drugs, pornography, or a weapon in school or during an official out of school activity. The possession of potentially dangerous objects (craft knives, scissors, pellet guns, etc.) in school which are used to threaten other students fall into this category.

An illegal activity will result in immediate suspension. The student’s parents will be contacted, a conference held, and the parents will be asked to take the student home. A second offence will result in automatic, immediate expulsion with no grounds for appeal.

Anti-Bullying Policy Bullying will not be tolerated at The British School of Washington, and everybody is entitled to feel safe at our school.

Pupils and Students rights

All children and young adults are entitled to feel safe at school

Nobody should be bullied

Nobody should fear what will happen to them on their way to and from school

Nobody should fear being harassed in the corridors, at play, at lunch or in class

What is bullying? Bullying takes on many forms and the school’s definition of bullying includes covert, electronic or subversive means of intimidating or controlling others. Bullying can be physical, verbal, emotional or sexual, and it can include:

Name calling

Threatening behaviour

Teasing

Taunting

Hitting

Stealing

Social isolation or shunning by other students Bullying can happen online or electronically:

Cyber bullying involves text messages, e-mails or instant messages

Posting of inappropriate comments or photographs in virtual chat-rooms and on social networking sites

Using somebody else’s user name to spread rumours or lies

What we do at the British School if we are informed of or observe bullying? Children, students, or staff seeing others being bullied should report it:

All reports of bullying will be taken seriously and an immediate investigation will take place in the school.

All learners must know that they can report bullying to any member of staff or a senior student within the school and not fear reprisals.

Sanctions will take into account the severity of the actions, and children, students who persist in bullying (despite counselling, sanctions and support) will be excluded from the school, either temporarily or permanently.

Parents will be involved throughout in order to take a partnership approach to dealing effectively with the issue and stop the bullying.

Our strategy for dealing with bullying:

The emphasis is always a caring one; a listening approach as bullies are often victims too – that is why they bully. In order to identify incidents of bullying and the identities of bullies, all staff watch for early signs of distress in children/students and all staff follow the maxim Listen, Believe, Act

The Head of School or a member of the School Leadership Team – which includes the Leader for Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning, is advised once the bully/bullies have been identified, and witnesses if possible, have been obtained.

Discussions are held with the bully, and they are told the details and asked to tell the truth about the situation/incident, whilst reminding them that bullying is not acceptable in a WCL school.

If they do not own up, matters will be investigated further.

Instigate separate discussions with parents of bully and victim

Ensure that through the appropriate, confidential, route all members of staff who need to be aware have been informed to ensure support for both victim and bully

Sanctions for the bully may include withdrawal from favoured activities, loss of playtimes, use of a common room, suspension or exclusion from school, depending on the perceived severity of the incident(s)

Continue monitoring the situation by observing at playtimes/free times/lunchtimes and having regular discussions with victim to ensure no repetition

As the behaviour of the bully (hopefully) improves, then favoured activities etc can be reinstated, and the student may be praised for improved behaviour.

Sexual Harassment Policy

BSW will not tolerate any form of sexual harassment by staff or students, and recognises the rights of staff and of students to participate in school programs and activities in an atmosphere free of any form of sexual harassment. Students have the responsibility of not engaging in sexual conduct that is unwelcomed or offensive to others.

Sexual harassment is any unwanted or unwelcomed verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with a student's right to learn, study, work, achieve, or participate in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, the following:

Making comments, gestures, or jokes of a sexual nature Manipulating clothing in a sexual manner Displaying sexual pictures or objects Spreading sexual rumours or commenting about sexual behaviour Repeatedly pressuring for dates or unwanted sexual activity Touching, grabbing, and pinching Teasing or bullying in sexual terms Inflicting physical sexual assault or abuse Sexual harassment through texting, e-mailing, Facebook etc.

Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco Policy

BSW condemns the misuse of drugs, alcohol and tobacco by members of the school and also the illegal supply of these substances by members of its community. Effective communication and co-operation, particularly with parents, are essential to the successful implementation of this policy. It is the policy of the British School of Washington that the school will remain an environment entirely free from illegal drugs, the paraphernalia of drugs, substances intended to resemble drugs and the “culture” of drugs. Therefore,

The possession and/or use of tobacco products by all students of the school are prohibited in and within the lunchtime perimeters of the school.

The immediate environment of the school is a designated drug and tobacco free zone.

A breach of this policy by pupils or students will be regarded as a very serious breach of discipline. In all cases, parents will be contacted.

BSW reserves the right to test students for abuse in the following circumstances:

1. Pre-enrolment 1. Reasonable Suspicion 2. Safety Assurance (Random testing) 3. During Rehabilitation

Any substance abuse testing undertaken will follow non-discriminatory principles and scrupulous quality assurance processes according to current best practice. Procedures for implementing this policy are available from the administration. The use and possession of illegal drugs and selling drugs on or near school property is a criminal offence. Effective communication and co-operation, particularly with parents, is essential to the successful implementation of this policy.

Disciplinary Procedures

1. In the event that illegal or suspected illegal drugs or alcohol are found the school will inform the relevant law enforcement agencies.

2. If there are reasonable grounds to believe that a student is in possession of drugs on or about the school or during official school activities the student must be reported to a member of the administration who will immediately inform the student’s parents. No further action may be taken until the parents or a legal representative of the parents is present.

3. In the presence of a legal 3rd party, the Head will inform the student of the allegation and provide the student with an opportunity to respond and present his/her side of the story.

4. In the presence of a legal 3rd party, the Head may authorize a search to be conducted of the student and/or his/her belongings and school property.

5. If a student is found to be in possession of drugs suspension will be immediate pending the outcome of a full investigation by school and the law enforcement agencies.

6. After due process, if a student is found to be guilty of using, possessing or selling drugs on or about the school or during official school activities the school will determine the most appropriate punishment, which is likely to be expulsion.

7. Detailed records will be kept of all cases of drugs in school showing the name of the student concerned, the date and nature of the offence, the procedures that were followed and, in the case of a search, the manner in which the search was conducted. Copies of these reports will be added to the files and records of the individuals concerned and will be passed on when the pupil leaves the school.

8. Any student who is known to be involved in drug related activities away from and unrelated to the school may be required to participate in a drug counselling and rehabilitation programme.

9. Any pupil or student whose behaviour in or away from school reflects badly on the reputation of the school will be subject to severe disciplinary procedures which could include suspension or expulsion.

Drug Related Emergency Procedures If a student is under the influence of drugs and alcohol, the following procedures will be followed:

If time does not permit or if the carer is not available, medical assistance will be obtained,

If a student needs to be admitted to hospital, an ambulance will be called

If an ambulance is not available, then student will be taken to hospital by two authorized members of staff.

A detailed record of actions taken by the school will be kept and shared with the carer.

Alcohol Use by Adults at School Functions In order to set the appropriate example to the young people in our care, the WCL policy is that there will be no alcohol in WCL schools. The consumption of alcohol is therefore not permitted at any school function (including those conducted outside school premises) at any time when school students, from any school, are present. A school function is any function organized by the school and/or in the name of the school and applies to all types of functions including dances, farewells, sporting fixtures, and barbecues.

Academic Honesty Policy “Academic honesty must be seen as a set of values and skills that promote personal integrity and good practice in teaching, learning and assessment. It is influenced and shaped by a variety of factors including peer pressure, culture, parental expectations, role modelling and taught skills.” Academic Honesty 2007. Geneva. International Baccalaureate Organization, Page 2 At BSW, academic dishonesty is considered to be an act of “severe inappropriate behaviour” in all phases of the school. Academic dishonesty can appear in various forms for example:

Plagiarism – the representation of the ideas or work of another person as the candidates own.

Collusion – supporting malpractice by another candidate, as in allowing one’s work to be copied or submitted for assessment by another.

Duplication – The presentation of the same work for different assessment components and/or Diploma requirements.

Any other behaviour that gains an unfair advantage for a candidate or that affects the results of another candidate.

Academic Honesty 2007. Geneva. International Baccalaureate Organization Page 3 Even though the internet is in the public domain, information may not be taken without appropriate acknowledgement. The uniform (universal) resource locator (URL) must be quoted for all items used in research (the date which the site was accessed must also be included). This includes all electronic date e.g. maps, pictures, graphs, sound clips etc. It is important that we recognise the domains of intellectual property (creations of the mind) and the importance of authentic authorship. Teachers will not accept work for marking or for submission to the IBO, which is not the students’ own. Teachers and students share responsibility for developing the correct writing conventions of acknowledging sources from books, newspapers, the internet, etc.

“The IB will not accept work for assessment or moderation unless the candidate has signed the cover sheet to confirm that the work is his or her authentic work and constitutes the final version of that work”. Handbook of Procedures for the Diploma Programme. Geneva. International Baccalaureate Organization Section D3 All students will be required to sign a declaration stating that all work submitted for assessment will be their own authentic work. This is in addition to any required IBO documentation. Subject teachers will inform classes on how to develop note-making and drafting skills, the use of bibliographic referencing and the practice of honesty in their work. The consequence of submitting work that has been copied, that contains unacknowledged text or ideas, or has been written or produced with the unfair assistance of another person is disqualification of the work. All formally assessed work will be checked using Turnitin.com and appropriate action will be taken for plagiarised work. The procedure for dealing with plagiarism will be as follows:

1. On the first occasion where work is identified as being plagiarised (where required, the IBO will be informed of the plagiarized piece of work), the work will not be accepted for grading. The student may be given 3 days to repeat the work if time permits before any relevant internal deadlines. This is at the teacher’s discretion.

2. On the second occasion where a further piece of work is identified as plagiarised, the student concerned will receive a ‘fail’ grade for the term.

BSW Student ICT Acceptable Use Policy

Students will only be granted access to School computing resources once they and a parent/guardian have agreed to the terms of this School’s Acceptable Usage Policy.

Parents and students should read and clearly understand the school rules concerning the following topics below:

1. World Wide Web

2. Email

3. Internet Chat (Facebook/Twitter/MSN Messaging/Yahoo Messenger, etc)

4. School Website

5. Mobile Phones, PDAs and Digital Cameras at School

6. Supervision and Monitoring

Consequences for Misuse

Misuse of the school Internet and computer resources will result in disciplinary action i.e. written warnings, withdrawal of access privileges, suspension or expulsion. BSW also reserves the right to report any illegal activities to the appropriate authorities.

Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy any equipment or data of another user or network connected to the school system will result in loss of access, disciplinary action and, if appropriate legal referral to the appropriate authorities. This includes the creation and uploading of computer viruses.

The sending of material that is illegal, obscene, or defamatory or that is intended to annoy or

intimidate another person whether this is student to student or student to teacher will result in loss of

access, disciplinary action and, if appropriate, legal referral to the appropriate authorities.

The use of devices offering the same functions as mobile phones in class without permission will result

in an initial verbal warning and continued use will result in the immediate confiscation of the device

which will be retained by the school until the end of the day.

Specific School Rules: World Wide Web

Students will observe good “netiquette” (i.e., etiquette on the Internet) at all times and will not

undertake any actions that may bring the school into disrepute.

Students will never view, send or access materials which they would not want their teacher or parent

to see or that they know to be inappropriate.

Students will not visit Internet sites that contain obscene, illegal, hateful or otherwise objectionable

materials.

Students should use the Internet for educational purposes only.

Students should never disclose or publicize personal information.

Students should be aware that any usage, including distributing or receiving information, school-

related or personal, may be monitored for unusual activity, security and/or network management

reasons.

Students should not circumvent the World Wide Web content filters in any way to access blocked

content.

Email

Lower (years 1-2) and Upper primary (years 3-6) students who need to send and receive email attachments should request permission from their teacher.

Students should always choose a secure password and should ensure this is not shared with other

students.

Students will not send or receive any material that is illegal, obscene, and defamatory or that is

intended to annoy or intimidate another person.

Students will not reveal their own or other people’s personal details, such as addresses or telephone

numbers or pictures.

Students will never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they only know through emails or

the Internet.

Internet Chat (Facebook/Twitter/ MSN Messaging/Yahoo Messenger/skype)

In lower and upper primary and lower middle school, chat rooms, discussion forums and other electronic communication forums used in school will only be used for educational purposes and will always be supervised by a teacher.

Usernames will be used to avoid disclosure of identity.

School Website

Students may be given the opportunity to publish projects, artwork, schoolwork or records of school activities on the World Wide Web.

Student work appearing in an educational context on Web pages will have a copyright notice

prohibiting the copying of such work without express written permission from the school.

Photographs will normally focus on group activities. Digital images of individual students may be

published on the school website unless parents have advised the school.

Mobile Phones, PDAs and Digital Cameras at School

Mobile equipment can be used to send and receive text, pictures and video. There is therefore significant potential for abuse. We recognize however that many parents feel that they wish their child to carry a mobile phone for reasons of personal safety. It is therefore not appropriate to impose an outright ban. The following rules should be followed to minimize the risk of inappropriate or illegal use of these devices on school premises:

Students in primary (years 3-6) and lower secondary (years 7-9) who have a mobile phone must have

them switched off for the entire school day.

Students in upper secondary (years 10 & 11) and IB (years 12 & 13) who have a mobile phone must

ensure that they are completely switched off during all teaching experiences - classrooms, IB common

room, sports, assemblies and moving between classrooms. It is not sufficient to switch devices to a

“silent” or “vibrating” setting.

Digital video or still cameras should only be used as part of a planned lesson with teacher supervision.

No photographs video or sound recordings can be taken without the express approval of the teacher

in charge (whether pupils or staff).

Bluetooth technology should not be used on school premises to transfer images at any time. There is a

danger that such images can be picked up by other Bluetooth enabled devices in the vicinity.

Breaking any of these rules will be regarded as a breach of school disciplinary policy and appropriate action will be taken according to the school’s behavior management policy. Serious cases of intimidation and bullying with such devices will be referred to the appropriate authorities. Supervision and Monitoring

Lower (years 1-2) and Upper primary (years 3-6) and lower secondary (years 7-9) school Internet

sessions will always be supervised by staff.

Upper secondary school (years 10 & 11) and IB (years 12 & 13) students access to and use of the

school’s internet will be monitored.

Filtering software and/or equivalent systems will be used in order to minimize the risk of exposure to

inappropriate material.

Staff reserve the right to monitor students’ online activities and to access, review, copy, and store or

delete any electronic communication or files and disclose them to others as it deems necessary.

Students should have no expectation of privacy regarding their use of BSW property, network and/or

Internet access or files, including email.

Staff reserve the right to examine, use, and disclose any data found on the school's information

networks in order to further the health, safety, discipline, or security of any student or other person,

or to protect property. They may also use this information in disciplinary actions, and will furnish

evidence of crime to law enforcement.

There will be no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the network service offered

by the school. The school will not be responsible for any damages suffered while on the system. These

damages include loss of data as a result of service interruptions. Use of any information obtained via

the network is at the user’s risk.

Guidelines for parent/school Email Communication at BSW

If your child is ill or unable to attend school, contact the School Office either via e-mail [email protected], phone or a written note before 9am.

During the day any urgent messages (i.e. information regarding medical, travel arrangements or attendance) should be directed to the school office in the first instance. Parents are reminded that they should refrain from contacting their children direct; school administration must be made aware of any issues for health and safety reasons.

Any general academic questions in reference to your child’s learning should be directed to the appropriate Learning Leader / IB Coordinator and not to the subject teacher.

Any specific academic questions should be directed to the appropriate class teacher/Head of Department

Pastoral queries should in the first instance be directed to your child’s class or form tutor and then to the Key Stage Coordinators.

Staff members will in most cases respond to email within 24 hours (unless they are absent).

E-mail etiquette:

Emails are best used for communicating background information, asking questions with specific factual answers, and scheduling calls/meetings.

Emails will not be used to list homework assignments or submit homework.

Emails should be informative, succinct, and respectful. Care should be given to the tone of the email.

Proper etiquette should be used. You can learn more about etiquette at: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook/HA012054101033.aspx

Restrict e-mail distributions to appropriate recipients and be aware of every recipient before sending e-mail.

Never forget that the person on the other end is human. Try not to say anything to others that you would not say to them in person.

Phone calls are preferred to solve a problem or have a complex discussion. If your matter is not resolved by an initial exchange of emails, it's best to call and speak by phone and/or organize a time to meet with that member of staff.

Photography and Video Use Policy BSW welcomes positive publicity. Pupil’s photographic images add color, life, and interest to articles promoting school activities and initiatives. Making use of photographic images for the school in publicity materials increases pupil motivation and staff morale and helps parents, the local community, and prospective parents see and celebrate the school’s achievements.

However, we recognize that photographic images have to be used in a responsible way. We respect the children’s rights of privacy and we are, as a community, very aware of any potential safeguarding and child protection issues. The aim of the school’s policy is to minimize the risks in relation to the use of photographic images in school publicity materials, on this website, and in local newspapers.

We recognise that parents, carers and family members will wish to record events such as school plays, sports days etc to celebrate their child’s achievements. BSW is happy to allow this on the understanding that such images/recordings are used for purely personal family use. ‘Use Your Camera and Video Courteously’ Code

Remember that parents and carers attend school events at the invitation of the school

The Head of School has the responsibility to decide if photography and videoing of school performances is permitted.

The Head of School has the responsibility to decide the conditions that will apply in order that children are kept safe and that the performance is not disrupted and children and staff not distracted.

Parents and carers can use photographs and videos taken at a school event for their own personal use only. Such photos and videos cannot be sold and must not be put on the web/internet without consent. We ask that parents agree to use images responsibly.

Recording or photographing other than for private use would require the consent of all the other parents whose children may be included in the images.

Parents and carers must follow guidance from staff as to where to stand in order to minimise disruption to the activity. Parents are asked not to distract or interrupt events by taking images.

Parents and carers must not photograph or video children changing for performances or events.

If you are accompanied or represented by people that school staff do not recognise they may need to check out who they are if using a camera or videoing the children.

ealth, Safety, and Security Regulations

Medical Health and Safety Regulations An open, caring and supportive learning community for children and young people, the British School Washington seeks to provide a safe and secure environment for pupils at all times.

Health Care Policies and Procedures

Policy Statement 1: BSW will ensure that a Medical Administrator and teachers trained in first aid are available on campus during school hours. Provision:

The Medical Administrator is on site from 8:00 to 4:00 pm on school days. There is a Medical Office in the administration area.

All Teachers hold a current First Aid qualification.

Teachers and Office Staff shall assist and attend to pupils with injuries or illnesses in the absence of the Medical Administrator and assist when necessary.

Information on staff holding a First Aid qualification shall be held in the Medical Office.

Procedures:

Teachers will accede to the pupils’ request to see the Medical Administrator.

Teachers in the primary school shall ensure that pupils are accompanied by adult teaching/support staff when they visit the medical office.

The Medical Administrator shall supervise the pupils who attend for consultation.

Policy Statement 2: BSW will strive to ensure that staff are aware of pupils’ relevant medical conditions and potential dangers for ill health. Collecting Medical Information:

The school will require parents, upon enrolment of the pupil, to complete an ‘Emergency Health Form’. This shall include allergy information, long term medical conditions as well as illnesses which may require regular medication or treatment during school hours. This should be updated annually.

Parents will sign an emergency release form on pupil enrolment consenting to care and treatment in the event of an emergency.

H

Parents who seek care for a pupil with specific medical needs shall provide the school with a management and treatment plan.

Parents will be responsible for updating the medical information provided to the school upon enrolment, informing the school of long term prescribed medication for their child, reporting communicable diseases.

Disseminating Information:

The Medical Administrator shall record the medical information supplied by the parents into a medical database.

Teachers will have access to information on children with allergies in their class.

The Medical Administrator will inform all teachers who teach the child if there is any medical information that staff need to know.

Communicable Diseases:

If teachers suspect pupils to have a communicable disease they will report this to the Medical Administrator.

If the Medical Administrator suspects a communicable disease the child will remain with the Medical Administrator until collected by the parents.

The Medical Administrator will report suspected cases of communicable diseases to the parents.

The school shall seek advice from the authorities regarding the management of the disease as appropriate.

The decision to inform the school community of the occurrence of a communicable disease (but not necessarily the identity of the child) will be made following the authority’s advice.

The parents will have a diagnosis made by their health care provider and forward the information to the -school.

The school may request that the parents provide a written confirmation that the child is fit to return to school.

The school will determine exclusion periods if necessary.

Policy Statement 3: BSW will maintain records of pupils’ pre-existing medical conditions and all consultations pupils have with the Medical Administrator and keep parents informed. Recording Medical Information:

The Medical Administrator will create a medical file for each child.

The Medical Administrator will develop individual health plans for pupils with specific health needs in collaboration with the student and parent.

The medical file will be accessible only by the Medical Administrator, the principles and the parents.

The Medical Administrator will record all pupil consultations and include the report in the individual pupil medical file.

The Medical Administrator will report the pupil visits to the parents by form of a written note or verbally depending on the nature of the visit.

The Medical Administrator will store medical files in a secure filing cabinet in the medical office.

The Medical Administrator will keep a daily register of student visits.

Reporting to the Parents:

The Medical Administrator will report details of all pupil consultations to the parent respecting the pupils’ wish for confidentiality.

The Medical Administrator will place a copy of this form in each child’s individual medical file.

The Medical Administrator will notify the parents by telephone when the child is deemed unfit to participate in school.

The school shall exercise the right to exclude children on the basis of medical conditions.

Policy Statement 4: BSW will maintain accurate records of incidents and accidents involving pupils during school hours and keep parents informed of all occurrences. Reporting Minor Injuries to Parents:

The Medical Administrator will notify parents in the form of a written note. Reporting Intermediate Injuries to Parents:

The Medical Administrator will report to parents verbally. Reporting Major Injuries to Parents:

The school will report major injuries immediately.

Parents will be consulted about how the child will be transported for further medical treatment.

The school office will inform the preferred clinic.

The school office will summon an emergency response team to come to school if the child if unfit to travel

First Aid will be administered until the emergency services arrive.

Policy Statement 5: BSW will provide clear guidelines and instructions to parents and pupils regarding the administration of medicines. Administration of Medication:

The school will not administer any controlled medication.

Administration of other medication is the responsibility of the school Medical Administrator.

No medication will be administered without parental consent.

Pupils shall not carry medication on their person in school.

Medication should be stored in the Medical Office.

All administration of medication shall be recorded.

A pupil may possess and self administer prescription asthma or anaphylaxis medicine at school if:

The parent of the pupil provides the school with written authorization for the pupil to self administer the prescribed medication at school.

The medication is prescribed for the pupil indicated on the prescription label.

Self administration compiles with the prescription and there is written instruction from the pupil’s doctor.

The pupil shall have a valid medication action plan signed by the parent and physician.

Non Prescription Medication Supplied by Parents:

The Medical Administrator will adhere to the administration of medication protocol.

The medication will be stored in a secure location.

The Medical Administrator will record the administration of medicine to the pupil.

The Medical Administrator will return all unused medication to the parent for disposal.

Parents will complete and sign a form requesting and consenting to administration.

The parent will be aware of and has signed a non liability statement.

The parent will obtain a completed physician medication order.

The medication will be clearly labeled in English with the pupil’s name, name and purpose of the medication and the dose and timing.

The Medical Administrator will administer the medication in accordance with the packaging and instruction for use.

Non Prescription Medication Available at School:

Parents will sign a form requesting and consenting to the administration of medication.

Parents will be aware of and sign a non liability statement

The Medical Administrator will administer in accordance with the packaging instruction.

The Medical Administrator will adhere to the school protocol for the administration of medicines.

The Medical Administrator will notify the parent of any medication administered.

Prescription Medication

The parent will complete an agreement form requesting and consenting to the administration of medication.

The form will be filed in the pupil’s medical file.

Medication will be supplied in the original container.

Medication will be clearly labeled in English indicating the pupil’s name, name and purpose of the medication, dose and timing, route of administration, physician’s name and expiry date.

The Medical Administrator will record any medication given, records shall be held in the pupil’s file.

The school would prefer where possible prescribed medication be administered out of school hours.

Homeopathic Medication:

Homeopathic and herbal medicines will be administered in accordance with the guidelines for prescription drugs. A written order for administration by an authorized prescriber, as well as written parental consent is required. If the homeopathic or herbal medicine is an over-the-counter product the container must be in the manufacturer’s original packaging with the safety seal intact. Emergency Number – 911 Children’s Hospital – 202 476 2327 111 Michigan Avenue, NW Washington DC, 20010 (Close to the intersection with N. Capital, opposite McMillan Reservoir)

DC Health Certificate Instructions and Health Form Information and Requirements can be found on the school’s website.

Health and Safety Policy

WCL issues an annually updated and comprehensive Health and Safety Policy. This document guides the work of the school’s own Health and Safety Committee which meets monthly to review all practice, process and procedures at BSW.

BSW is committed to achieving the highest standards of health, safety and welfare for all activities within its control so that employees, pupils, visitors, and others who may be directly affected by the work of the school are, so far as is reasonably practicable, not exposed to hazards and thereby protected from risks. All members of the school community and visitors should:

• observe all the health and safety rules of the school

• exercise personal responsibility for the safety of themselves and others

• report hazards to a member of staff

• not wilfully misuse, interfere with, nor neglect safety specific equipment

• observe standards of dress consistent with safety/hygiene

Primary School Section Medical Procedures Children and pupils are only excused from classes for illness or emergency reasons. Parents are urged to schedule medical, dental and other appointments for after school hours or during vacations. Children and pupils complaining of illness are initially referred to the School Office or Medical Administrator. If the condition is a minor one it will be treated by a First Aid trained member of staff. The child or pupil can then return to class when they are able to do so. A record of the treatment is filed and kept at school and a copy sent home to parents. If it is a more serious complaint, parents will be informed immediately and asked to come in to school and an appropriate course of action will be agree upon. In the case of medical emergencies, parents will be contacted and if necessary an ambulance will be called. A First Aid trained member of staff will stay with the child until a parent arrives. In the event that a parent cannot be contacted or if the emergency requires immediate response, a member of staff will accompany the child or pupil to a medical facility. It is vital that the school has up-to-date emergency contact information. Parents are requested to be vigilant in updating their contact information on the school’s portal or in the Parent’s section of the website.

Secondary School Section Medical Procedures Students complaining of illness are initially referred to the School Office or Medical Administrator. If the condition is a minor one it will be treated by a member of staff who is trained in First Aid, and if the student is able to do so they will return to class. If not, the student may be kept ‘under observation’ for a maximum of 30 minutes. A student may also be sent home if it is clear that s/he is unable to continue lessons. Decisions are made on the basis of initial observations and advice from staff trained in First Aid. Please note that students must not call home first to try to get permission to go home from their parents. Once assessed by school personnel, parents will be called by the School Office if it is considered that a student is no longer fit to study. It is vital that the school has up-to-date emergency contact information. Parents are requested to be vigilant in updating their contact information on the school’s portal or in the Parent’s Section of the website.

Communicable Diseases Parents are requested to inform the School of any health problems before their children are admitted and as they arrive each day. Students should not come to school if they are contagious or clearly unwell. Any contagious disease that is contracted by a student must be reported immediately to the Medical Administrator, as well as to the form tutor or class teacher. If any contagious disease is identified during the school day, parents will be called immediately to collect their child. Below are two reliable websites that parents can go to regarding their child's health, in addition to staying in contact with their pediatrician. www.aap.org The American Academy of Pediatrics. The website will allow parents to search on particular topics. www.cdc.gov The Center for Disease Control website is helpful in information on infectious diseases and disease prevalence in various countries around the world. If a student needs to be dismissed early from school, a written note or email should be sent to the School Office indicating the time and reason for the dismissal and the name of the person who will collect the student. The School Office will then inform the tutor and form or class teachers.

Following is the recommended exclusion periods for the following medical conditions. Letters will be sent by e-mail to the class, phase, or whole school depending on the nature of the illness by the Medical Administrator.

Disease or condition

Exclusion of case* (from school or work)

Exclusion of contacts** (from school or work)

Letters sent to

Chickenpox

Exclude until fully recovered or for at least 5 days after eruption first appears. Note that some remaining scabs are not a reason for continued exclusion.

Any child with an immune deficiency (for example, leukemia) or receiving chemotherapy should be excluded for their own protection. Otherwise not excluded.

Section

Conjunctivitis Exclude until discharge from eyes ceases Not excluded Class

Diarrhea Exclude until diarrhea ceases Not excluded Class

Glandular fever (mononucleosis)

Exclusion is NOT necessary Not excluded Section

Head lice (pediculosis)

Exclude until the day after appropriate treatment has commenced

Not excluded Section

Hepatitis A (infectious hepatitis)

Exclude until a medical certificate of recovery is received, but not before seven days after the onset of jaundice or illness.

Not excluded Whole School

Measles Exclude for at least four days after the onset of the rash

Immunized contacts not excluded. Non-immunized contacts should be excluded for 14 days after the first day of appearance of rash in the last case. If non-immunized contacts are vaccinated within 72 hours of their first contact with the first case they may then return to school

Section

Meningitis (bacterial)

Exclude until well Not excluded Whole School

Mumps Exclude for nine days or until swelling goes down (whichever is sooner)

Not excluded Section

Rubella (German measles)

Exclude until fully recovered or for at least four days after the onset of the rash

Not excluded Section

Scarlet fever (see Streptococcal Sore Throat) Not excluded class

School sores (impetigo)

Exclude until appropriate treatment has commenced. Any sores on exposed surfaces should be covered with a watertight dressing

Not excluded class

Streptococcal sore throat (including Scarlet fever)

Exclude until the person has received antibiotic treatment for at least 24 hours and the person feels well

Not excluded class

Tuberculosis (TB) Exclude until medical certificate is produced from appropriate health authority

Not excluded Whole School

Viral gastroenteritis (viral diarrhea)

Exclude until diarrhea ceases Not excluded class

Vomiting Exclude until vomiting ceases Not excluded class

Whooping cough (pertussis)

Exclude for five days after starting antibiotic treatment

Exclude unimmunized contacts aged <7 years from school for 14 days after the last exposure to infection or until they have been on antibiotic treatment for at least 5 days of a minimum 14 day course of antibiotics

class

Hygiene Requirements All students are reminded about:

Not sharing food, utensils or cups

Not coughing or sneezing on other children

Using tissues (not hand or sleeve), and throwing these away responsibly.

Washing hands, with soap, after using the bathroom and before eating.

Persistent failure to comply with these requirements will lead to formal disciplinary measures.

Sun Safety Policy

To ensure our pupils are adequately protected during outdoor play and activities during the hot weather, all pupils need to purchase a BSW cap or bucket hat (nursery) at the school office for Summer term in order to play on our playgrounds as they are in the open sun. Parents should apply sun screen before the pupils arrive at school in the morning. If the pupils need further application of sun screen, they will need to apply it themselves during the day. Younger children can be given direction in applying this by the teachers but will need to apply the sunscreen themselves. Activities outside maybe limited or be for shorter periods of time during the hottest times of the day to ensure children are not out for extended periods of time in very hot temperatures.

Outdoor Play during School Sessions DC authorities mandate that children must remain inside if temperature is below 32 degrees or if air quality advisories are in effect.

However, at the school’s discretion, children may be permitted a brief walk or play time when the temperature is below 32 degrees F, if conditions are deemed safe and comfortable. Under these circumstances, children with asthma or other sensitivities will be carefully monitored or supervised in the building.

Participation in PE Lessons

It is important to notify the PE Department of any changes in your child’s health which may affect their participation in PE.

Unless the PE teachers are made aware of any illness or injury which might affect the child participating in PE lessons, they will assume they are fit and healthy and will encourage participation and can therefore not be held responsible.

Parents are requested to email their child’s PE Teacher regarding any short term illnesses prior to the child's PE lessons.

If the child has an illness or injury that will affect participation in PE lessons for longer than a week, a doctor's note detailing the length of inactivity required, should be submitted to the Medical Administrator.

If unwell or injured students must bring their PE kit no matter what, even if they have a note from their parents or they are feeling unwell.

In most cases a note will excuse the student from physical exercise and we will ask the student too coach/umpire/ref./analyze their peers so therefore they still need their kit. That way they still see the learning taking place. If they are struggling to carry out normal daily activities then obviously alternative arrangements will be made. The student must talk to their form tutor in the morning to arrange an alternative venue during their PE lesson classroom based work).

Any primary student in the same situation will accompany their class to their PE lesson. Any child with mobility issues will have to stay in their primary class with their teacher.

Entering and Exiting the Campus In order to meet safety and security measures, BSW has a system of checking in and out at the School Office. All visitors must sign in and wear a badge while visiting the school. Before School Hours: Parents/Guardians are requested to stay with their children until 8:00 a.m. The school will not be held responsible for children and pupils who are left before the school opens at 8:00 a.m. During School Hours: Children and pupils may only enter or exit the building with their teachers, parents, or guardians as arranged in advance with the School Office. Students in Years 10-13 can sign out of the building for lunch if parental permission is on file. After School Hours: Children and pupils who have taken part in clubs and activities are accompanied to the school door or to a central area of a sport venue by the teacher for collection. Adventure Club: The School Office calls the Adventure Club staff when a child’s parent or guardian has arrived. Parents/Guardians are expected to be punctual in picking up their children and should inform activity organisers of any changes.

Drills and Evacuations The school is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for students at all times. BSW is equipped with security cameras, emergency lighting, fire alarm and sprinkler systems. Regular Health and Safety checks are carried out and the school is inspected annually by local fire department officials. Fire drill evacuations as well as tornado and hurricane drills are held regularly in order to familiarize students with correct procedures.

British School of Washington 2011-12 School Calendar Autumn Term Autumn Term Begins Tuesday, 30 August 2011 Labor Day Holiday, School Closed Monday, 5 September 2011 Autumn Half Term Break Monday, 24 October- Friday, 28 October 2011 Thanksgiving Holiday Thursday, 24 November & Friday, 25 November Teacher Training Day, School Closed for Pupils Monday, 28 November 2011 Autumn Term Ends Tuesday, 20 December 2011

Spring Term Spring Term Begins Wednesday, 4 January 2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday, School Closed Monday, 16 January 2012 Spring Half Term Break Monday, 13 February - Friday, 17 February 2012 Teacher Training Day, School Closed for Pupils Monday, 20 February 2012

Spring Term Ends Friday, 30 March 2012 Spring Break Monday, 2 April - Friday, 13 April 2012

Summer Term Summer Term Begins Monday, 16 April 2012 Summer Half Term Break Monday, 28 May - Friday, 1 June 2012 Summer Term Ends Tuesday, 3 July 2012 *All school days, including last day of each term, are full days.

School Office Closed Labor Day Thanksgiving Christmas Eve Christmas Day – Observed New Year's Eve Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Memorial Day Independence Day

International25 Buckingham GateLondon, SW1E 6LD, United Kingdomwww.wclgroup.com

North America4211 Watonga Blvd. Houston, Texas 77092Phone: [email protected]

2001 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20007Phone: 202.829.3700Fax: 202.829.6522www.britishschoolofwashington.org