Page 31 - Parents' Handbook - Sept 2021

BULLYING DISCIPLINE
A COPY OF THE SCHOOL’S ANTI BULLYING POLICY IS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE OR UPON REQUEST.
We encourage children from the outset to talk about any problems they may encounter. In a school (as in a family) there may be the occasional clash, but no child should be made unhappy through the deliberate actions of others, either verbal or physical. All staff are alert to such behaviour and any instances of unkindness or bullying will be dealt with immediately. A written record is made of any instances of bullying, and the Headmaster and relevant Tutors informed.
Fortunately, such instances are rare but some
pupils sometimes get it wrong, most usually from thoughtlessness rather than vindictiveness. Sanctions will be used where necessary but we aim to prevent unkindness through nurturing a positive community atmosphere. However, we are far from complacent and we continually try to increase staff vigilance and the effectiveness of pastoral systems.
We urge parents to get in touch with the school immediately if they feel that anything untoward has occurred. From their earliest days in the school, children are encouraged to talk about any problems or concerns and they are reminded that staff will listen and take any concerns seriously.
CHAPEL
We are lucky enough to have our own beautiful Chapel and we enjoy services throughout the year. As well as weekly assemblies and gatherings for pupils, we have services where we invite guest speakers and parents are often invited to come and join us. Details of services can be found in our Calendar, on the school website.
Services follow a traditional Church of England format, but we welcome families of all faiths and none.
If parents do not wish for their children to attend our Chapel services, then please let us know.
A COPY OF THE SCHOOL’S BEHAVIOUR POLICY IS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE OR UPON REQUEST
Our aim is to encourage and develop self-discipline, kindness and a community minded outlook. We encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own actions as the best preparation for life at senior school and thereafter. We hope that pupils will behave in a socially helpful manner because they realise that this is best for everyone.
When there are problems, they are normally resolved through discussion, but in any community sanctions may be necessary sometimes. At Abberley Hall,
they are used as a last resort and rarely needed. Headmaster’s Detention exists on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons for more serious instances of bad or antisocial behaviour. If necessary, parents of Day Pupils will be given warning of this at least a day before.
FRIENDS
Friendships between children can be volatile: today’s inseparable friends may be arguing tomorrow - and vice versa. These swings are quite normal and parents should guard against undue alarm. However, if criticisms persist, please let us know and we will
look into things give support where appropriate.
HEADS OF SECTION AND TUTORS
Section Heads
The Prep school is divided into three sections, each consisting of two year groups and these sections gather together at various times during the week. A member of teaching staff is appointed to lead each section and, together with Tutors, they ensure that each child in their section is thriving – both academically and pastorally.
» Head of Years 3 and 4 (The Palace) – Tessa Besley
» Head of Years 5 and 6 – Vicki Austen
» Head of Years 7 and 8 – Matt Bennett Tomlin
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