KNOX NEXT GENERATION BOARDING - STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK 2019 - Knox Grammar School
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KNOX NEXT GENERATION BOARDING
STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK 2019
CONTENTS
AN OVERVIEW OF NEXT GENERATION BOARDING ..................................................................................................... 4
WELCOME TO BOARDING AT KNOX ............................................................................................................................. 5
WHOLE OF LIFE BOARDING PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................ 6
PHILISOPHY OF KNOX BOARDING ................................................................................................................................ 7
POSITIVE EDUCATION IN BOARDING ........................................................................................................................... 7
FACILITIES FOR BOARDERS ........................................................................................................................................... 7
WEEKS’ SENIOR ACADEMY...................................................................................................................................... 7
ORGANISATION OF KNOX BOARDING.......................................................................................................................... 8
BOARDING HOUSE STAFF ............................................................................................................................................. 9
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS ...................................................................................................................................... 10
COMMUNICATIONS MECHANISMS........................................................................................................................... 10
THE KNOX PORTAL....................................................................................................................................................... 12
HOW TO ACCESS THE PORTAL ............................................................................................................................... 12
NEW PARENT TIPS ....................................................................................................................................................... 13
PREPARATION FOR LIFE IN A BOARDING SCHOOL ............................................................................................... 13
GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................................................................................................. 13
PARENT ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY .............................................................................................................. 16
HEALTH CARE ............................................................................................................................................................... 17
MEDICAL, HEALTH AND CLINIC PROCEDURES...................................................................................................... 17
THE SCHOOL CLINIC ................................................................................................................................................ 17
ATTENDANCE AND MONITORING STUDENTS...................................................................................................... 17
EMERGENCIES / ACCIDENTS ALL HOURS ............................................................................................................. 17
MEDICAL TREATMENT ............................................................................................................................................ 18
LONG TERM MEDICAL CONDITIONS...................................................................................................................... 18
SATURDAY SPORTS INJURIES - PROCESS FOR BOARDERS AT ANY SPORTS FIXTURE ..................................... 19
OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER ................................................................................................................... 20
INSURANCE INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................... 20
OTHER INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................................ 20
WHAT TO BRING .......................................................................................................................................................... 21
LAUNDRY GUIDE .......................................................................................................................................................... 22
CODE OF CONDUCT IN BOARDING ............................................................................................................................. 23
RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................................................ 23
GENERAL SECURITY..................................................................................................................................................... 24
STANDARDS EXPECTED IN THE HOUSE ..................................................................................................................... 24
STUDENT MANAGEMENT AND DISCIPLINE GUDELINES ........................................................................................ 25
POLICY AND PROCEDURE AGAINST BULLYING ........................................................................................................ 26
2
VISITORS TO BOARDING.............................................................................................................................................. 27
BOARDERS DINING ROOM .......................................................................................................................................... 28
BOATER CAFÉ ............................................................................................................................................................... 29
BOARDERS’ CHAPEL .................................................................................................................................................... 29
BOARDER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................. 30
HOMEWORK AND STUDY ........................................................................................................................................... 30
KNOX BOARDING INTERNET POLICY .......................................................................................................................... 30
OVERSEAS BOARDING................................................................................................................................................. 33
LEAVE DURING TERM TIME ........................................................................................................................................ 35
ONLINE ‘REACH’ LEAVE SYSTEM................................................................................................................................ 37
REACH BOARDING SYSTEM FOR PARENTS ............................................................................................................... 38
DRIVING POLICY ........................................................................................................................................................... 40
EMERGENCY EVACUATION AND LOCK DOWN PROCEDURES ................................................................................ 40
BOARDING CONTACT LIST .......................................................................................................................................... 42
Criscos Provider No. 00399E December, 2018
3
AN OVERVIEW OF NEXT GENERATION
BOARDING
Established in 1924, Knox Grammar School (“the School”) is a leading Australian Independent Day and Boarding School
for students with a reputation for academic excellence.
During its long and proud history, Knox Grammar School has developed a reputation for scholastic, cultural and sporting
excellence. Former students of the school can be found in all walks of life, and have contributed greatly to the growth
and development of Australian society.
Knox Grammar School is one of the major Boarding schools in Australia, and the School is committed to maintaining
this position. The School is non-selective, comprising over 2100 senior school students, of whom approximately 205 are
Boarders. Boarding is offered in Years 7 to 12. Flexible Boarding arrangements to cater for a variety of student and
family situations can be discussed and considered.
Boarders are enrolled in line with Policies and Procedures used for all students, including day students. Careful
consideration is given to suitability to Boarding, before a decision is made by the Headmaster to enrol a student into
Boarding. This will usually involve a discussion between the Headmaster and the Head of Enrolments, and may involve
consultation with the relevant Head of House and Mentor Team Leaders where appropriate.
The Boarders are ‘the soul of Knox’ because they are within the school grounds constantly, and they set high standards
in all fields of endeavour. Boarders are accommodated in horizontal stage groups, which enable them to be treated
appropriately to their age and cared for by suitably qualified and experienced staff, appointed by the Headmaster. In
addition to this, the Boarders are encouraged to work as a team. Through vertical interaction between Houses, a great
camaraderie develops and there are vertical leadership opportunities for mentors and prefects. Each House has a Head
of Stage, supported by an Assistant Head of Stage, House Manager, Evening Boarding Tutors and Weekend
Supervisors who work regularly with the school.
The School Clinic provides medical care and support for all Boarders that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Boarders’ Chapel is held on Wednesday evenings throughout the year, as indicated on the Boarders’ Calendar. Boarders
also attend Chapel once a week with their Year Group during the school day. Boarder parents / guardians are
encouraged to attend Boarders’ Chapel, whenever possible. Attendance at Chapel at the scheduled times is a
compulsory requirement of the school.
All Knox Boarder parents / guardians have the opportunity to join the Boarder Parent Supporters Group under the Knox
Parents Association structure. This group meets once per term to discuss matters relevant to Boarding. The group has
two central aims:
• To promote and support a friendship network for Boarder parents
• To engage in activities to develop and promote Boarding at Knox.
4
WELCOME TO BOARDING AT KNOX
Boarding is a unique opportunity. It opens up a whole new range of
life experiences and opportunities not available to most boys.
The success of Boarding is very much dependent upon the
establishment of a strong sense of community for both you and your
son. Many activities have been arranged to assist in becoming part of
the Knox Boarding Community.
Parents are encouraged to attend the Boarding Welcome Dinner and
Annual Family Chapel Service and Dinner throughout the year with
their son, to participate in Boarder Parent Supporters Group meetings
and functions such as the Boarder Stall (at Gala Day).
Similarly, you should encourage your son to actively involve himself in
all Boarding activities, a ‘get involved and have a go’ attitude will
accelerate his integration into the Knox Boarding Community.
Boarding life places a number of demands on the boys. They must assume greater responsibility for their own
academic, sporting and cultural wellbeing. Each boy will be required to be more responsible for his personal hygiene,
cleanliness and punctuality. Finally, he has responsibilities to his fellow Boarders to contribute to the peace and
harmony of the House. This is best achieved by abiding by the rules and regulations of the Boarding community.
All Boarders are encouraged to take on leadership responsibilities. These opportunities range from membership of the
Boarder Leadership Team (BLT), to being buddies for new Boarders, as mentors in the Boys to Men mentoring program
and ultimately as Boarder Prefects or Senior Boarder and as Y11 Academic Mentors who assist Stage 4 Boarders on
their free afternoons in supporting them with their homework.
There will always be pangs of homesickness for Boarders. Even the most seemingly confident Boarders experience
homesickness. Homesickness is something that should be respected – it is a natural outcome of love between a boy,
his parents and the home environment. It also reflects the insecurity of moving into a new set of circumstances where
virtually everything is unknown. Parents will also be experiencing a sense of loss.
Boarding staff look forward to welcoming you and your son to Knox Boarding and we trust that your association with
Knox Boarding will be both a fulfilling and happy one. The success of the Boarding experience for both you and your son
will very much reflect the effectiveness of communication between you, your son and the School carers. Please contact
your Head of Stage in the first instance should there be any matters causing you concern.
Our goal is to make those positive connections not only with your son but with all our Boarding families and through the
warm and friendly greeting that you will find when arriving at Boarding Reception. We look forward very much to
supporting your son through every facet of his Boarding and School journey with us, so his experiences are ones filled
with wonderful memories of friendships made, academic success and opportunities to grow and develop into a well-
rounded global citizen..
Brian Sullivan
Head of Boarding
5
WHOLE OF LIFE BOARDING PROGRAM
The Knox Next Generation Boarding Whole of Life Program aims to develop resilient well-rounded young men,
equipped for personal growth and ready to be citizens of character who lead. This unique program is based on the
school’s core values of Faith, Wisdom, Integrity, Compassion and Courage and has five elements:
Living Skills, Citizenship, Academia, Faith and Co-curricular
At each stage of the Boarding journey these elements have a focus to promote character building and resilience. This
unique Knox Program is supported by specialist, experienced and qualified staff. Boarders are challenged to extend
themselves and discover what their individual talents are and how to develop them to their full potential. With a strong
emphasis on community and leadership, Boarders are both supported at all times, as well as given the opportunity to
support each other.
According to their year group, Boarders have the opportunity to participate in the following activities as part of the
Whole of Life Program.
• Community Service which includes; RUOK Day, The SAN Run for Life, White Ribbon, Purple Ribbon and Pink
Ribbon days, the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, Legacy, as well as numerous Wesley Mission, Hope
Street special projects and the Y9 Interact Club.
• School Service, which includes helping at School events such as debating, ANZAC Day and Gala Day.
• The Cooks to Chefs Cooking Skills Program for Boarders in Years 7 to 10.
• The Boys to Men Mentoring Program, which includes the Boys to Men Camps.
• The Living Skills Course (boys learn to iron, clean bathrooms and shine their shoes).
• The Toastmasters Public Speaking Course.
• Senior Responsible Service of Alcohol and Responsible Conduct of Gambling.
• Incoming YEAR 12 Leadership Camp and ConneXions Camps.
• School Programs including the TAS Afterschool Workshops, the Agriculture Program, Visual Arts Program
and Drama.
• The Faith Element which includes Chapel, Devotions, Reflection Sessions and Confirmation Program.
• Cultural Dinners such as Chinese New Year, Halloween and Italian and Lebanese Theme Nights
• Sydney Exploration including the Quarantine Station Ghost Tour, Historical Walk through the Rocks, Sydney
Theatre Company Performances, Jet Boating on Sydney Harbour, Bledisloe Cup & other Sporting Outings.
• Paintball, Laser Tag, Raw Challenge and Socials with Girls Schools.
• Cyber Bullying and Internet Footprint Awareness Program.
• Master Classes by Senior Academic Staff in Study Skills, Literacy and Stress Management
6
PHILOSOPHY OF KNOX BOARDING
Knox Boarding aims:
• To ensure that Boarding is a complementary and valuable addition to the home experience.
• To provide a secure and caring environment in which Boarders will grow and develop academically, socially,
physically, morally, spiritually and emotionally.
• To provide a community life in which Boarders will not only become independent and self-sufficient, but also
be responsible citizens who live harmoniously and care for one another.
• To foster the development of self-discipline and encourage Boarders to accept responsibility for their actions.
• School Policies and Procedures which are in place for day students also apply in Boarding. This includes The
Welfare and Discipline Policy.
POSITIVE EDUCATION IN BOARDING
The School recognises the historic school ethos of “creating purposeful lives” articulated by the founding Headmaster,
Neil MacNeil in 1924. According to Knox Historian, Professor Mansfield, Neil MacNeil made much reference to
singleness of purpose, self-mastery, reasonable optimism and spoke of the need for Knox to produce “not only more
exalted spirits, but a finer sensitiveness of mind” (1938). More than eighty years later, scientific studies from the field
of Positive Psychology support MacNeil with a growing body of research providing evidence that those living with
meaning and purpose in their lives report higher levels of well-being.
Our Headmaster, Scott James leads a team of dedicated staff who create programs and initiatives designed to
proactively support and develop the wellbeing of the whole student. The Total Fitness of our boys sits at the heart of all
that we do, our staff seek to ensure every boy works to realise his own personal strengths and purpose, equipping him
with the skills and habits required to thrive and live a virtuous life.
In the Boarding Community, the Boarders are involved in a number of purposeful life experiences such as Wesley
Mission Community Service, St. Lucy’s and St. Edmond’s Community Service, Leadership and Mentoring Camps,
International Boarders Immersion Program, VIA (Values In Actions), Realise2 and GRIT Surveys.
FACILITIES FOR BOARDERS
Boarders are able to take full advantage of the facilities offered by the school at times when day students cannot. The
boys are able to use the school gym and weights room whenever it is open. They are allowed to play on Knox 1, use the
basketball courts, tennis courts, squash courts, swimming pool and Great Hall recreation areas. Boarders are to be
accompanied by staff members as appropriate. Boarders are able to use the library for extra study and also have access
to the D&T Labs, Art rooms and Agricultural Plot during allocated times.
WEEKS’ SENIOR ACADEMY
The Weeks’ Senior Academy (WSA) which has just recently been renamed after former Headmaster, John Weeks
(2018), has been created to meet the specific learning needs of Year 11 and 12 students as they transition from school
to the more independent world of future studies.
The building offers a range of facilities for Boarders including:
• A Seniors Hall for teaching, study and socialising
• The KSSA Library, open until late in the evening for study, with extra support available for students
• Boaters café, where food can be purchased.
The Senior Boarders have access to the WSA after school up until 6.00pm to see teachers, attend the library and work
in small study groups.
7
ORGANISATION OF KNOX BOARDING
The Boarders are housed in the Knox Boarding Centre, Gillespie Heritage House and the Senior Boarding Centre
according to their Stage. Each level of the Knox Boarding Centre has been named after a Historical Boarding House to
continue the traditions of Knox Boarding.
LEVEL 1: SCHOOL CLINIC AND LAUNDRY
LEVEL 2: GILMORE
Gilmore House was built in the 1970s and up until 2008 housed the most junior Boarders. Gilmore House once stood
where the Knox Boarding Centre (KBC) now stands, although its legacy lives on not through its physical presence, but
through its name. Stage 4 Boarders are accommodated on Levels 2 and 3.
LEVEL 3: GILLESPIE
Gillespie Boarding House was named after Sir Robert Winton Gillespie, a founder and major benefactor of the School.
Purchased as a Boarding House and the Headmaster’s residence, it was used as the original school building and
became a Boarding House in its own right in 1947. Stage 5 Boarders are accommodated on Levels 3 and 4.
LEVEL 4: MACNEIL
MacNeil House (1954) was named after the first Headmaster of the School, Neil H MacNeil, and a Rhodes Scholar who
served in World War I. Mr MacNeil set the abiding tone and standard of the school. Today, the MacNeil level of the
Boarding Centre houses Year 10 Boarders.
LEVEL 5: EWAN
Ewan House is listed by the National Trust and is one of the few remaining houses of its type. It was built in 1896 for
the brewer, John Thomas Toohey. There are photographs in the hall that show the house early this century. Ewan
House is located within the grounds of Knox Preparatory School (“Prep School”) in Billyard Street, Wahroonga and
since the opening of the Knox Boarding Centre has been returned to the Prep School for their use. Year 12 reside in
single rooms on Level 5 of the KBC and in the Senior Boarding Centre (SBC).
GILLESPIE HERITAGE HOUSE HISTORY & SENIOR BOARDING CENTRE
Gillespie Heritage House was previously known as Gillespie Boarding House and named after Sir Robert Winton
Gillespie, a founder and major benefactor of the School. Since the foundation of the School in 1924, Boarders have
resided in Gillespie House. After the construction of the Knox Boarding Centre in 2010, in 2011 Gillespie House was
refurbished and re-named Gillespie Heritage House. This enabled the expansion of the Knox Boarding Community. The
house was architecturally re-designed into spacious single rooms that match the state of the art facilities of the Knox
Boarding Centre, but boast the historical features of the original school building including high decorative ceilings, a
grand staircase, fireplaces and balconies. Year 11 reside in Gillespie Heritage House and Year 12 reside in the Senior
Boarding Centre and on Level 5 of the KBC.
And with this, a new phase in Boarding, history begun. “Knox is committed to being a world class boarding school
encompassing best practice not just to respond to the needs of young men in the 21st Century but to prepare boys for
the world beyond school” John Weeks, Former Headmaster (2018).
8
BOARDING HOUSE STAFF
HEAD OF STAGE
Heads of Stage (HoS) are responsible to the Head of Boarding for the daily operation of their Stage and to assist each
boy to achieve his physical, emotional, academic and spiritual potential. Each Head of Stage is a member of the Knox
teaching staff.
• Head of Boarding
• Head of Stage 6 Boarding
• Head of Stage 5 Boarding
• Head of Stage 4 Boarding
ASSISTANT HEAD OF STAGE
Assistant Head of Stage (AHoS) assist the HoS in the running of the Stage. Each AHoS has a strong, formal and
informal presence in the Stage and acts as a mentor and role model for boys. The AHoS assist in overseeing the
academic and pastoral needs of each Boarder.
• Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding (GHH) - Y11 x 3
• Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding - (SBC) - Y12 x 2
• Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding (KBC) - Y12 x 2
• Assistant Head of Stage 5 Boarding (KBC) – Level 3 and Level 4 x 3
• Assistant Head of Stage 4 Boarding (KBC) – Level 2 x 1
HOUSE MANAGER
The role of the House Manager (HM) focuses on providing primary pastoral and supportive care to the Boarders in their
Boarding House. The HM assists the HoS with pastoral, administrative and operational functions in the House. They are
also a contact for parents with day-to-day issues.
• House Manager of Stage 6 Boarding (SBC) – Y12
• House Manager of Stage 6 Boarding (KBC) – Y12 - Level 5
• House Manager of Stage 6 Boarding (GHH) – Y11
• House Manager of Stage 5 Boarding (KBC) – Level 4
• House Manager of Stage 5 Boarding (KBC) – Level 3
• House Manager of Stage 4 Boarding (KBC) – Level 2
WEEKEND SUPERVISOR
The role of the Weekend Supervisor (WS) on duty focuses primarily on the management and day-to-day operations on
weekends only of the Stage of Boarders assigned to them by the Head of Stage.
SENIOR ACADEMIC MASTER – BOARDING
The Senior Academic Master for Boarding is Mr Les Harvey. Mr Harvey assesses all Boarders academic progress
throughout the year. Academic issues should be directed to Mr Harvey - harveyl@knox.nsw.edu.au
BOARDING PROGRAMS
The Boarding Programs are coordinated by Mrs Helen Clarke - ClarkeH@knox.nsw.edu.au
EVENING BOARDING TUTOR
The Evening Boarding Tutors (EBT) are Knox Academic Staff who work as a member of the Boarding Team, which is
inspired at all, times by the highest ideals of teamwork, collegiality, integrity and professionalism. The role of the
Evening Boarding Tutor is to assist, tutor and supervise Boarders with their evening Prep study time and support
Boarding Staff. There is no need for Boarders to seek additional external tutoring.
9
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS
All students are accounted for by using the House’s Daily Electronic Roll (REACH). Boarders are signed out in the
morning by the House Manager on duty when they leave the House. Upon their return in the afternoon, a time of return
is recorded. All leave details, whether local, extended or weekend is also recorded in the House Daily Electronic Roll.
The Boarding House doors are locked at 9.30pm daily, and the alarm systems are armed at 10pm and disarmed at
5.30am daily. Should a Boarder need to enter or exit the building after 10pm or before 5.30am they will have to contact
security (through their HoS) and be escorted. The security guard and security dog patrol the Houses and the surrounding
areas after hours. Access to the KBC during the school day is not allowed. All doors to the Centre are alarmed for
security reasons.
Staff take all reasonable care to ensure that no student is exposed to any unnecessary risk of injury. Boarding Staff are
in loco parentis of the boys under their care and the standard of their care is that of a skilled professional.
Staff are familiar with, have been trained in and adhere strictly to the school’s emergency management policies and
procedures.
Ill or injured students are attended to by the supervising staff member. Should additional assistance be required,
contact is made with the School Clinic.
COMMUNICATIONS MECHANISMS
A variety of both formal and informal internal communication mechanisms are used to ensure smooth and safe running
of each House. These include:
• Whole of Boarding Team Staff Meeting preceding the start of each school term.
• Weekly minute Boarding Meetings with Heads of Stage, Head of Boarding, Boarding Executive Officer, Senior
Academic Master, Boarding Programs & Social Justice Coordinator.
• Weekly House Meetings run by each HoS’s.
• Weekly Boarding Welfare Reports written by each HoS and sent to the Deputy Headmaster for distribution to
the Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster, Clinic, Mentor Team Leaders, Counsellors and other relevant sections of
the School.
• Wellbeing Fortnightly Meetings attended by HoS’s.
• Boarding Wellbeing Fortnightly Meetings with School Boarding Counsellors attended by HoB and HoS’s.
• Termly Whole of Boarding Meeting run by BLT Representatives and Boarding Staff.
• Fortnightly Stage Boarding Meetings run by the HoS’s.
• In-service Days, meetings, telephone calls and emails as required.
A variety of both formal and informal external communication mechanisms are used to ensure smooth and safe running
of each Stage. These include:
• Email updates including news and important information are often sent by Fiona Sullivan from the Boarding
Office. It is very important that the school have your correct email address so you are able to receive this
information.
• Minute Boarder Parent Supporters Group and Boarding Advisory Committee Meetings. The BAC is made up on
one representative from each Year Group. This group meets with the Head of Boarding once per term to give
feedback. These meetings are minuted.
10• The Boarding News is emailed to each Boarder family twice in Terms 1 & 3 and once in Terms 2 & 4. The
Boarding News is also available on the Knox Portal under Boarding, Boarding News. It contains detailed
reports from the Head of Boarding, the Senior Academic Master - Boarding and all Heads of Stage as well as
many up to date photos of the most recent Boarding Programs and activities. This newsletter is put together
and edited by the Boarding Executive Officer.
• The International Boarding News is written by Louise James in consultation with Fiona Sullivan and
distributed to International Boarding Families only, once per term via email.
• Each HoS is available to be contacted by a designated phone line in each Stage, along with email contacts
given to parents.
• Stage Weekly Newsletters Updates from the HoS’s.
• Email Contact: Every student at Knox has a school email address. All addresses consist of your son’s first
initial, then surname, then year of graduation followed by @knox.nsw.edu.au –
e.g.asmith16@knox.nsw.edu.au
Teachers email addresses all in lower case with surname followed by initial, then @knox.nsw.edu.au. Example: Mr
James Norman’s email address would benormanj@knox.nsw.edu.au
When sending mail to boarders, please use the following postal addresses:
Student Name
Knox Boarding Centre
PO Box 5008
WAHROONGA NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA
Or
Student Name
Gillespie Heritage House
PO Box 5008
WAHROONGA NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA
Or
Student Name
Senior Boarding Centre
PO Box 5008
WAHROONGA NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA
11THE KNOX PORTAL
HOW TO ACCESS THE PORTAL
An individual login and account has been setup for each parent.
Your username is made up of your parent code followed by the letter ‘f’ for father, ‘m’ for mother or ‘g’ for
guardian (where applicable). Therefore, if your parent code is SMITH01, the father’s username would be
SMITH01F.
Your password is the same as your BPay reference number. You can find this on your school fees statement and is
usually a five-digit number. Enter this number for your password exactly as it appears on your statement. Once you
have entered your username and password, press enter or click the 'Staff Log On' button
To access Knox Grammar School Parent Lounge please go to: knoxnet.knox.nsw.edu.au
Choose where you want to go from the screen below.
12NEW PARENT TIPS
PREPARATION FOR LIFE IN A BOARDING SCHOOL
It is difficult if you and your son have never been separated like this before. You care about your son and want the best
for him, and want to know he will be OK. It is very normal for there to be some emotion in saying goodbye.
How can you minimise distress? Your attitude towards the separation will be most important here, as your son will
notice your feelings. The risk is that if he notices fear about the separation, he is more likely to perceive that the
separation is something to be feared and he will be more distressed. This can escalate: as you perceive his distress, so
your distress increases - and the vicious cycle continues.
Model positive attitudes and confidence in the School and in your son’s capacity to cope and thrive. Your confidence
can promote confidence and trust in the safety of the separation.
So, be excited! Physiologically, excitement and fear are indistinguishable from each other – so reframe your own fears
as excitement: be excited that your son is beginning a challenging adventure that you trust is in his best interest. Be
excited that your son is going to grow in maturity, independence and confidence. This does not mean pretending that
you will not miss your son, rather the message to give is, ‘I will miss you, but I know this will be worth it, and I know
you will be OK’.
The concept of homesickness should be raised and your son reassured that homesickness is a normal part of life
experienced by most Boarders, both old and new. Realise homesickness will not end in Term 1. It may reappear at the
start of each term but the extent of homesickness will diminish with time.
Reassure yourself homesickness will come and go and sometimes your son may ring and ‘dump on you’. You will
experience massive guilt and anxiety for your son who in the meantime is off the phone having fun in the pool or
playing on the oval with his new friends.
If you have any special concerns about your son, please let staff know. You can call and discuss any concerns with the
school counsellor.
GENERAL INFORMATION
CLOTHING
It is essential that each article be clearly marked with your son's name followed by KGS.
POCKET MONEY
Boys should not keep more than nominal amounts of money on their person.
Parents should be encouraged to open key card accounts for their boys in Wahroonga. There are both Commonwealth
and Westpac banks located in Wahroonga.
PERSONAL MUSIC PLAYERS
IPods and the like are permitted, but earphones are essential to prevent distraction of others. The serial numbers of
these and similar items should be recorded for security purposes in the ‘valuables’ section of the Consent Form. The
School cannot accept any responsibility for these items - they are left at the owner’s risk.
MOBILE PHONES
All Boarders are permitted to possess mobile phones. Boys may not use mobile phones in the House during formal
times, in prep or after lights out. All Boarders mobile phones are secured by the Boarding HoS in the laptop and phone
locked cupboard between lights out and rising the next morning, to ensure uninterrupted sleep. We would encourage
all boys to have alarm clocks whilst their phones are locked away overnight.
13MOBILE PHONES AND CYBERBULLYING
Using mobile devices to bully (also known as cyberbullying) and threaten other students is unacceptable and will not be
tolerated. In some cases, it can constitute criminal behaviour.
Students are reminded that it is a criminal offence to use a mobile phone to menace, harass or offend another person
and almost all calls, text messages and emails can be traced.
Mobile phones or other mobile devices must not be used to take photos/video of any other student or staff without
their consent. It is also prohibited to upload photos/video of other students/staff to social media websites or email
photos/videos to others if doing so would embarrass, humiliate or cause discomfort to the subject of the photo/video.
Students are reminded that mobile phones are not to be used during the school day, or in toilets or changing rooms.
TEXT BOOKS
Please purchase your son’s textbooks on line from www.boxofbooks.com.au Please tick the box marked Boarder to
ensure the order is part of the bulk order delivered to the School for the start of the school year.
STATIONERY
Boys will need exercise books, binder books or loose-leaf sheets in a folder to take notes during class. Boys will also
require a pencil case with the appropriate amount of pens, pencils, highlighter, ruler etc.
SPORT
All Boarders are expected to access the full sport and co-curricular program offered at Knox. This includes meeting the
expectations of playing weekly sport in summer and winter, as well as active participation in all school carnivals
(Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics). Every Boarder is expected to play major team sports, and inter-school fixtures
are arranged on most Saturdays throughout the School year. In addition to the formal obligations Boarders have the
opportunity to use the School’s sporting facilities (swimming pool, gym and fields) under the supervision and guidance
of their HoS.
ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL FUNCTIONS
There are certain School Functions, which are compulsory for Knox Boarders to attend. Full details of such functions are
advertised in the Annual Boarding Calendar and are provided through the Boarding Office and are listed in The Boarding
News. These include Welcome Dinner, Termly Chapel Services & Formal Dinner, Annual Chapel Service & Family
Dinner, Christmas Carol Service and Banquet, Senior Boarders Banquet (Y11 and Y12 only) and other occasions as
deemed by the Head of Boarding and Deputy Headmaster.
STUDENT MEDICAL AND HOUSE INFORMATION CONSENT FORMS
These forms are self-explanatory and accurate completion is essential for the well-being of your son. Of particular
importance is the information regarding a local support person or family member, whom may need to be contacted if
urgent communication with you is not possible.
These forms must be updated each year and returned to the Head of Stage prior to commencement of Term 1. Students
cannot take their place in the Boarding House without completing the Boarder’s House Information and Consent Form
and Boarder Medical Consent Form.
HOMEWORK
The School policy is for regular homework to be set every night. Monday to Friday nights inclusive have strictly
supervised Prep periods. Each boy has his own desk and bookshelves.
Reminder - no telephone calls during prep or after lights out please. Boys with mobile phones will be asked to switch
them off during Prep.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
The State Government provides transport for Boarders living in New South Wales, between Knox and the town nearest
to their home, at the beginning and end of each school term. The bookings are organised through CountryLink each term
by Mrs Fiona Sullivan in the Boarding Office. Most boys travel by coach that collects them from the nearest town and
conveys them to school and return at the end of term. There may be students from other boarding schools on the same
services.
14All boys travelling on CountryLink bus or rail services will require a free RailCorp Boarders’ Pass. For new students an
application form is available from The Boarding Office. Boarder Passes include a student photo and are valid between
Years 7 and 10, and Years 11 and 12. RailCorp charge a fee for the replacement of lost or damaged passes.
BOOKING END OF TERM/BEGINNING OF TERM - COUNTRYLINK TRAVEL
NSW Rural Boarder parents will be required to request CountryLink travel at the end of term and beginning of term for
their son’s via REACH and advise of the following travel types:
• F (forward only – Knox to Home)
• R (return only – Home to Knox)
• B (forward Home and return to Knox)
The School will make the bookings on your son’s behalf in consultation with his HoS. Any Parents/Students wishing to
cancel their journey after the published cancellation deadline, must contact the CountryLink Call Centre directly on 132
232 and advise their HoS of the cancellation. Boarders who are not travelling to their home or day boys travelling with
boarders must purchase a ticket.
RETURNING FROM WEEKEND LEAVE OR HOLIDAYS
Each HoS require an accurate arrival time as to when a boy is returning from weekend leave, boarders’ weekends or
holidays. This is necessary in order to facilitate catering for meals and supervision of your son.
All boys are expected to return from weekend leave to the house on each Sunday by 8.00pm. A written confirmation of
your son’s itinerary, including e-tickets for holiday travel, to and from home would be very much appreciated.
Please advise in advance if your son requires a meal on his return or if a meal needs to be kept for him if he is returning
outside dinner times.
DRESS
The underlying principles are:
• Local Leave - Neat casuals should be worn.
• Weekend Leave - Neat casuals should be worn.
• School Functions (includes all home games) - Winter School Uniform or School Tracksuit
• Main Meals - Neat casuals* with the exception of Chapel nights (Winter School Uniform) and Saturday
breakfast (tracksuit or School Uniform). The blue Boarders Jacket can be worn.
NOTES:
*Neat casual clothes means wearing socks and shoes, or boat shoes, a shirt, and long trousers or shorts (no sleeveless
tops, sandals, thongs, tracksuits etc.)
* Boys are required to wear a collared shirt to the dining room on weeknights.
HAIR
It is expected that boys at all times have School regulation haircuts - neat, off the collar and ears (but not excessively
short), and conforming to the shape of the head. Colouring of hair is not permitted.
All boys must present at School and in the Boarding Houses with no facial hair. It is essential all senior boys shave as
required to comply with these expectations.
INSURANCE
The school provides NO INSURANCE for the personal effects of Boarders. Each boy is responsible for ensuring the
safety of his own property.
15PARENT ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY
There are a number of places to stay in Sydney if you are not from the area. However, we have five places we can
recommend.
• The Wahroonga Bed and Breakfast
Address: 84 Woonona Ave, WAHROONGA NSW 2076
WEB: www.airbnb.com
For reservations call Linda O’Neill 0487 317 242
This is the closest accommodation to the school. It is a small B&B, which is very reasonably priced. A number
of current parents stay there when they come down on weekends.
• The Blue Gum Hotel
Address: 55 Pacific Highway, Waitara NSW 2077 TEL: (02) 9489 3220
WEB: www.bluegumhotel.com.au
EMAIL: info@bluegumhotel.com.au
The Blue Gum Hotel is about a 5-minute drive from Knox and only 500m from Waitara station. The Blue Gum
Hotel has 11 comfortable, clean and homely rooms with private Bathrooms, which are spacious. All rooms
have been updated and modernised to reflect current standards, have access to free Wi-Fi and prices include a
continental breakfast. The Blue Gum Hotel offer discounted rates for Knox Families.
• The Ibis Hotel Thornleigh
Hotel Address: 200-212 Pennant Hills Road, Thornleigh NSW 2120
TEL: (61-2) 9481 7500
EMAIL: h3238@accor.com
WEB: www.ibishotel.com/3238
The Ibis Sydney Thornleigh is about a 10-minute drive from Knox. The hotel will offer 10% discount on the
best available rate per night.
To access this special rates call 02 9481 7500 or email h3238@accor.com and quote Knox Grammar rate code.
• The Sebel Residence Chatswood
Address: 37 Victor Street, CHATSWOOD NSW 2067
WEB: www.sebelchatswood.com.au
TEL: (02) 9414 1600
EMAIL: h8800@accor.com
We are located in the heart of Chatswood CBD, steps away from Chatswood train station, three major
shopping centres, a variety of restaurants and great entertainment. The Sebel Residence offer discounted
rates for Knox Families. There 4.5 star serviced apartments are spacious and ideal for longer family visits. The
Accor Hotel Group would also like to extend special rates to Knox families at their sister property, Quay West
Suites Sydney. Located in the historic Rocks Precinct, families can enjoy the convenience and luxury of a five
star CBD hotel with serviced one and two bedroom apartments overlooking Sydney Harbour. W:
www.quaywestsuitessydney.com.au P: 02 9240 6000
E: h8764@accor.com
• Airbnb
Various accommodation options are available from a one-bedroom apartment through to a house.
WEB: Airbnb.com.au
16HEALTH CARE
MEDICAL, HEALTH AND CLINIC PROCEDURES
It is our school policy to promote a safe and supportive environment for all students. Our pastoral care processes are
carefully designed and reviewed regularly to provide support and care for all boys. Support staff and selected academic
staff have regular first aid training. We have a designated Clinic in the Senior School, which can be accessed by boys
as needed.
Medical information on all students is required annually from parents/guardians in order that the School appropriately
cater for students during normal school activities. Additional information will be sought for particular participation in
excursions and trips. New health problems, any changes to condition, medication or special requirements must be
given to the School immediately.
THE SCHOOL CLINIC
School Clinic Telephone: (02) 9487 0133
The School Clinic is located in the Knox Boarding Centre. The process for accessing the Clinic in the Senior School is
outlined below. Full details concerning the Clinic and the monitoring of the health of students at Knox is contained in
the Clinic Protocols and Procedures Manual available from the Clinic and Guidelines for School Nurses published by the
School Nursing Association of NSW also available from the Clinic.
The School Clinic is staffed by Registered Nurses. Day boys can visit the Clinic if required whenever they are at the
school. 24-hour medical care is available to all boarders.
ATTENDANCE AND MONITORING STUDENTS
Each boy visiting the clinic will have the following details entered in to the database:
• time of arrival
• time signed out
Additionally, an email is sent to the SAO and relevant Head of Stage if a boarder.
For boarders, the clinic will send an email in the evening to boarding staff listing all boys who have presented to the
clinic, the diagnosis and treatment.
In the day school, depending on the condition of the student, they will be accompanied to the clinic.
EVENINGS/AFTER LIGHTS OUT
In Gillespie Heritage House and the Senior Boarding Centre, boarders present to staff on duty or to the Assistant Head
of Stage after lights out – they may also phone the Assistant Head of Stage if required. Staff will contact the Sister on
duty. The staff member and boarder will enter the Knox Boarding Centre, level 3, and use the lift down to the clinic. On
weekends, boarding staff will contact the Sister on call.
In the Knox Boarding Centre after lights out, boarders will knock on either the Head of Stage or Assistant Head of Stage
door. Once again, staff will notify the clinic. Staff will accompany boys down to the clinic via the lift.
EMERGENCIES / ACCIDENTS ALL HOURS
All Boarders are to contact/awaken boarding staff on duty and staff to inform the Nurse on duty if a boy is unwell. The
sick boy will be accompanied to the clinic.
17MEDICAL TREATMENT
In the event of any accident or illness to a boy at school or while taking part in any organised school activity or function,
the parent/s or guardian/s specifically authorise the School to arrange for all necessary immediate medical treatment
and/or hospitalisation and to consent to any operative treatment including general or local anaesthetic.
Parent/guardians are required to advise the School of emergency contact details for students. Parent/guardians must
agree to pay all medical and ambulance expenses incurred on behalf of the boy as seen on the Boarder Medical Form
including immunisation.
LONG TERM MEDICAL CONDITIONS
In the case of serious illnesses, the following procedures apply:
1. The condition is identified (e.g. allergic reactions, diabetes, asthma, other life-threatening conditions).
2. Care plans including treatment, emergency procedures, doctors' contact numbers, parents contact numbers
and a recent photo of the child to be organised by the SAO.
3. Student Notes are flagged appropriately and entered into school database. TASS by Enrolments administrator
or Clinic staff.
4. Information will be disseminated by the relevant SAO in one or more of the following ways:
• Email to appropriate staff
• Meeting of appropriate staff
• Information for the class teacher
• Information for student file
5. Any new information to be forwarded to the Student Administration Office who will update information to all
staff as appropriate.
MEDICATION
Parents are requested to inform the Clinic of any medications being taken by students.
Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications are stored in the Clinic, with the exception of Asthma Relievers.
All medications administered by the Clinic will be recorded.
All parents/guardians are required to complete a Medical Consent Form Annually – please refer to the back of the
Parent Handbook – New Boarders ONLY require a Medical Examination from their General Practitioner.
PRESCRIPTION AND RESTRICTED MEDICATIONS
• Assistance will be given by the school nurse in the administration of prescribed medication, when requested
in writing by parents/guardians or as prescribed by the School Doctor.
• Assistance will be given by the school nurse in the administration of restricted medication (such as Ritalin,
Dexamphetamine) after receiving documentation from the doctor and parent.
• Instructions regarding changes to the original dosage of long term or restricted medications must be in writing
from the doctor and parent/guardian.
• The school nurse may only administer or assist with the administration of any medication, if the medication is
provided in its original container with label clearly displaying the students name and the required dosage.
• All medications will be stored in a locked cupboard in the Clinic.
MINOR AILMENT OR INJURIES
• The student will report to the Clinic where his attendance will be recorded on TASS.
• The registered nurse on duty will assess and treat the student as required.
• Treatments will be documented on TASS.
SERIOUS INJURIES OR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES REQUIRING DOCTOR OR HOSPITAL
• Students are either escorted to the Clinic or if seriously injured, left where they are and medical attention
sought.
• Students receive first aid at the scene where it is inadvisable to move them.
• An ambulance is called if necessary. Parents are contacted after the ambulance has been called.
• An Accident Report form is completed. Copies are sent to the Deputy Head of Senior School.
18•Student is either admitted to the Clinic or parents are contacted if child needs to be taken home, if living
locally.
• If a student is taken by ambulance, follow up calls are made and information added to the Accident Report
form. Further contact with family and/or medical staff or hospital and information recorded.
MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNICABLE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES
• Take history and examine patient
• Contact School Doctor, or associate for clinical diagnosis
• Isolate patient until parent/guardian contacted
• If Overseas student or student who has no place to go for recuperation, the Clinic has a designated isolation
room.
Management of Immunisation and Screening (Please attach Immunisation Record)
Note last Tetanus immunisation date on boarder file.
(Year 7) NSW IMMUNISATION PROGRAMME
Diphtheria Tetanus & Pertussis Boostrix
Human Papillomavirus x 3 Gardasil
Varicella (catch-up only) Varicella
Other immunisations are considered the responsibility of the parents.
CHILDREN IMMUNISED OVERSEAS
Where vaccines have been given overseas and are not recorded on the AIR, the child’s overseas records should be
checked by a GP/Nurse who will then transfer the information to the AIR. Parents should then request an updated AIR
Immunisation History Statement to give to the school.
CHILDREN NOT FULLY IMMUNISED
Please be aware that students who have not had all the recommended immunisations for their age, or where no
immunization certificate has been provided, may need to stay at home/guardian during a disease outbreak. This is to
protect the child and stop the spread of disease.
If a boarder requires part of his immunisation during the term, parental authority is to be obtained and then School
Doctor notified. Vaccines etc. will be ordered through Red leaf Pharmacy.
Flux Vax can be given to the boarders, at the discretion of the parents, a letter will be sent from the Boarding Office in
Term 1.
SATURDAY SPORTS INJURIES - PROCESS FOR BOARDERS AT ANY
SPORTS FIXTURE
IF AMBULANCE CALLED
• Sports coach to notify Sports Master and/or Head of Sport immediately
• Sports coach to notify Clinic on (02) 9487 0133
• Clinic to notify boarding staff on duty
IF STUDENT IS INJURED AND REQUIRES MEDICAL ASSESSMENT (NO AMBULENCE CALLED)
• Sports coach to organise for another boy/or willing parent to accompany the injured boarder to either the
School clinic or hospital.
• Sports coach to notify School Clinic (02) 9487 0133
• Clinic to notify boarding staff on duty and Head of Boarding
• Clinic to notify parents
19HEALTH SERVICES APPOINTMENTS
• All medical and allied service appointments are to be organised through the school Clinic e.g.: - Doctors,
physiotherapy, Dentist, orthodontist.
• Location, timing and transport must be approved by the Boarding Office in advance prior to the appointment
and a Clinic leave form completed.
• Students may be escorted to and from appointments by parents and approved family friends or at the
discretion of parents the student may attend the appointment without escort.
• The School Doctor is available for consultation in the Clinic or at the Turramurra practice as required.
OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER
The School arranges OSHC for the duration of an overseas student’s study time at Knox through Medibank Private. If
you would like more information on this, please visit their website at
http://www.medibank.com.au/Client/StaticPages/OSHCHome.aspx
INSURANCE INFORMATION
The following statement is provided to all families with respect to insurance cover for their son/s while they play sport
at school.
If your son/s are involved in any contact or dangerous sports, the school strongly recommends that you take out full
Private Health Insurance. Even with full Private Health Cover, often the cost of medical expenses to the parent when a
significant injury occurs, is substantial.
The School provides Student Accident Insurance designed primarily to help with permanent injuries of a serious nature,
such as quadriplegia, paraplegia or loss of a limb. As most sports injuries are not of a permanent nature, this insurance
is limited.
It is our understanding that no Insurer can, by law, cover medical expenses covered by Medicare, beyond the scheduled
fee. Sometimes the difference between a Surgeon’s/Specialist’s fees and the scheduled fee is substantial and the
parents are expected to meet these costs.
OTHER INFORMATION
The nursing staff need to know if a boy is known to have been in contact with infection, sustained an injury or received
medical treatment prior to arriving to the school or after the holidays.
If a boarder has been receiving medical treatment during the holidays or for a chronic condition, it is most important
that the treating Doctor or health professional send a report to the nursing staff, in particular specifying any
prescriptions, medications or ongoing treatment required.
20WHAT TO BRING
It is important for boys to bring items to make their room as comfortable and homelike as possible – for example
photographs, mementos or a stuffed toy. Having too much in one’s space, however, makes room care difficult and time-
consuming. It is asked, that parents monitor the amount of ‘luggage’ brought to the Boarding School by their sons.
The following items are suggested:
CLOTHING OTHER ITEMS
• Full school uniform, Winter and Summer • Mobile phone
• T-shirts (x2) • Sporting equipment
• Collared polo shirts (x2) • iPod
• Jeans (x2) • Camera
• Shirts (x2) • Coat hangers
• Shorts (x2) • Address book/ letter writing material
• Jumpers (x2) • Roll on deodorant only
• Underwear • Alarm clock (if you have extracurricular activities to
• Tracksuit pants attend before the usual wake up time you will need
• Socks (x6 pairs) to set an alarm)
• Jacket • School equipment (stationery and textbooks)
• Joggers • The Boarding Centre has air-conditioning and heating
• Casual shoes installed centrally. Please do not bring fans or heaters.
• Swimming costume • Each desk and bed has a lamp installed overhead. Please
• Beach towel do not bring a lamp
• Toiletries
• Raincoat and/or umbrella
All electrical items will be tested and tagged by the school within the first few weeks of arrival. All items brought to
the Boarding House must be clearly labelled with your son’s name.
Clothing labels may be obtained through The Knox Shop (02) 9487 0191.
It is expected that a Knox student understands the value of property. He will treat other people’s property with respect
and be responsible in caring for his own. Items of great value should be left at home.
VALUABLES
Please make sure you list all valuables on the list provided in the Boarder Consent Form.
BEDDING
The School supplies all boys with a pillow, doona, doona covers, sheets and two bath towels. These are washed by the
School Laundry.
SCHOOL LAUNDRY
The laundry washes all school uniform items. Generally, these are returned within two days. Each boy will be provided
with two named laundry bags for washing all underwear and socks.
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