Responsibilities

Pupil code of conduct

All Kimbolton pupils are expected to abide by the school Pupil Code of Conduct, which can be found in the school calendar.

The supportive family atmosphere is maintained through mutual respect and trust between the pupils and the boarding house staff. There are a number of policies which cover the expected behaviours from both staff and pupils, in our policies area.

If behaviour is not meeting expectations the boarding house staff may apply sanctions from time to time, these will be proportionate and agreed between the Houseparent and the pupil.

Boarding House expectations

Each house has their own specific expectations, which are published on their notice board and discussed in house meetings. Below are some of the key expectations.

Make sure you read and understand the Fire Procedures and where your nearest exits are.
The ICT policy should be read and understood.
Keep your room tidy.
Do your weekly duties! This may be one of a few simple tasks to ensure the smooth running of the house.
Rotas are made out by the Head of House or House parent and they include most house members.
Change your bed linen when asked to by the Matron and place all laundry in the bins provided in the bathrooms, on a regular basis.
Treat communal areas and the kitchen with respect and keep them tidy.
Don’t wear your dirty boots from games or CCF in the house.
Read and respond to your emails regularly. Boarding house updates and information about activities will be sent by email.
If you are 3rd form or below, you will be required to hand in your mobile phone and iPad to the house tutors before bedtime, and these may be picked up before breakfast.
All electrical items are to be left out for PAT testing on the specified date.
You are expected to be contactable at all times and are therefore required to carry your mobile phone with you whenever you leave the boarding house.
There are some commitments which full boarders are expected to attend. These include: Boarders’ Chapels, The boarders’ activity on the first weekend of the school year, the Christmas trip and the Summer Term excursion. The dates where attendance is required can be found in the school calendar.

Staying safe when out and about

The Duchess pond and the Spinney pond are both out of bounds to all boarders, unless attended by a member of staff.
You must stay inside the village boundaries unless you have permission from your House parent.
Both pubs and the cricket club bar are out of bounds.
The Sports Hall is not to be used after school unless permission has been sought from a member of the PE staff.
If you are in the 3rd Form or below, you must not go out alone at any time.
4th Form and above must not go out alone after sunset.
Boarders may not use the swimming pool outside of school time unless it is a designated time for them to use it – e.g. Thursday 5.30pm.
Boarders are advised not to enter the changing rooms until the general public have exited them. If this is unclear a member of staff will be able to check they have exited them.
Always remember to sign out and take your mobile phone!

Sanctions

Pupils caught smoking or with drugs/alcohol will be dealt with as per the school policy.

All other misbehaviour will be dealt with by the Houseparents, and sanctions will be issued where appropriate.

It is important not to panic, the House parents are supportive and will work through anything that has happened with a measured and fair approach – it is better to raise any issues straight away.

Positions of responsibility

The role of the Heads of each House

Be a role model to others in the house and lead by example.
Communicate regularly with Houseparents.
Be available to show visitors around the house.
Produce Duty Rotas and check they are followed.
Act as a mentor when needed.
Help new members of the house settle in.
Assist the member of staff on duty.
Help with end-of-term arrangements.
Be responsible for the cleanliness of the Kitchen and Common Areas.
Help organise Christmas House decorations and Carol Singing.
Help organise the Christmas and Leavers’ meal.
Listen to pupils’ problems, making sure that lower years know they can speak to you.
Be aware of who the Designated Safeguarding Persons are within the school and what their roles are.

The role of Sixth Formers

Be ready to listen to other boarders’ problems, making sure the lower years know they can talk to you.
Be aware that Mrs Hadden is the Designated Safeguard Lead and any safeguarding concerns must be passed on to her or a member of the Safeguarding team.
Carry out duties as arranged by the Head of House.
Support the member of staff on duty.
Support the Head of House in their duties.
Be a role model!
Discuss any problems/concerns with your House parent.