New pupil information

Our registration system uses thumbprint recognition. The permission form must be completed for ALL students and returned before 1st July.

Blundell’s has been using a thumbprint recognition system for our daily pupil registration for some time now. This system has proved to be very successful indeed in streamlining registration and allowing pupils more time to themselves over lunch. It has also greatly improved the accuracy of registration and it has proved to be a convenient and effective system for the pupils to use.

I must stress that the system does not hold a scan of your child’s fingerprint. When they first register, the computer generates a unique digital code and this code cannot be ‘reverse-engineered’ to generate an image of the print. When a pupil has left the school their code will be securely erased.

Under the Protection of Freedom Act 2012, we need to seek your consent before enrolling your child on the system. Please therefore complete the form below to indicate consent or otherwise to Blundell’s enrolling your child on the Live Register system as part of an automated biometric recognition system. In addition, your child may at any time object or refuse to allow their biometric information to be used even if you have given your consent. We would appreciate it if you could explain this to your child. Should you wish not to use the electronic system, or your child objects to such processing, it is possible for them to register in person twice a day at the main school office.

Blundell’s will not use the biometric information for any purpose other than as stated above and you can change your mind and withdraw your consent at any point in the future by writing to the school.

Any use of thumbprints will only be done in a manner that is safe, and in line with school risk assessments and cleaning guidelines.

You can change your mind and withdraw your consent at any point in the future by writing to the school.

Thank you for your support

Yours sincerely

Bart Wielenga

The Head, Blundell’s School

https://forms.office.com/e/eVXepFPknn

This must be completed for all students entering Years 9, 10, 11 and 12

Please tell us if your child has had any special arrangements during school or public examinations e.g. an allowance of extra time or enlarged copies of examination papers.

It is essential that any relevant paperwork is forwarded to the School BEFORE the beginning of the Autumn Term.

If you have not done so already, please contact Mr Kingdon, the Head of Learning Support, apk@blundells.org if you feel your child may require Learning Support.

https://forms.office.com/e/m8BpAVF38g

Please tell us if your child has been entered for an External (Public) Examinations at a previous school for students in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12.

It is extremely important that we know if your child has been entered for any External (Public) Examination at a previous school. The Unique Candidate Identifier (UCI) that they will have been issued stays with them right through their education.

If they have a UCI please give details of this on the form. This can be found on any statement of entry or results from the awarding bodies and is a twelve digit number followed by a letter.

If they have not been entered for any external examinations, please also confirm this on the form.

https://forms.office.com/e/QZ7kTxmFKq

Confirmation of GCSE/GCE/IB results must be submitted for all students entering Year 12 by 28th August.

Please provide details of your GCSE, GCE or IB results below.

https://forms.office.com/e/4mxAfKeUSH

If you have not taken GCSE, GCE or IB examinations, for example if you have studied outside of the UK and have non-UK qualifications, please email a transcript from your school detailing your qualifications at age 15 / 16 to ljl@blundells.org

This information is essential for us to safely look after your child. It must be completed for ALL students. If you have not done so already please email (scan or photograph) the completed form to medical@blundells.org (if you have previously submitted medical information via the Admissions or the Registrar you do not need to do this again).

Medical information form

If you require a printed copy of this form to be sent to you please contact the Admissions Co-ordinator a.gray@blundells.org

For all pupils living overseas including those who are British passport holders

All overseas pupils who live outside the UK are required to have an Educational Guardian in the UK who will be responsible for them whilst studying at Blundell’s School. This is a legal requirement and one that Blundell’s – like all schools – takes very seriously. A guardian will provide an additional means of support for an international pupil and give them an adult outside of Blundell’s to whom they can turn for assistance and advice.

We will only offer an international student a place if they have a UK-based guardian and this requirement also applies to pupils who live overseas and are British passport holders. Blundell’s School requires that all pupils living outside the UK must have a guardian for the duration of their time in school, even if they are aged 18 and over. The guardianship must be in place before the pupil starts at Blundell’s.

A Guardian can be either an agency or an individual person appointed by the parents.

• Guardian Agency: If choosing an agency, it is the school’s strong preference that the agency chosen is accredited by AEGIS. AEGIS (Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students) is an independent organisation that offers guardianship accreditation in the UK and agencies that are accredited by AEGIS will offer the highest standards of care to the students they are responsible for. Blundell’s does not recommend particular agencies.
• Individual Guardian: an individual guardian is often a member of the family living in the UK or a family friend. They must be:
  • A householder in the UK. We will need to see a copy of a utility bill or other appropriate document showing proof of name and address.
    
  • Over 25 years of age. We will need to see a copy of their passport to confirm their age.
    
  • Able to speak fluent English.
    
  • Be contactable by email and telephone – ideally two telephone numbers are required if possible and an email address is essential.
    
  • Ideally live within two to three hours from school.
    
  • An individual guardian cannot under any circumstances be a member of staff at the school attended by the pupil.
    
  • A householder in the UK. We will need to see a copy of a utility bill or other appropriate document showing proof of name and address.
  • Over 25 years of age. We will need to see a copy of their passport to confirm their age.
  • Able to speak fluent English.
  • Be contactable by email and telephone – ideally two telephone numbers are required if possible and an email address is essential.
  • Ideally live within two to three hours from school.
  • An individual guardian cannot under any circumstances be a member of staff at the school attended by the pupil.

The duties of a Guardian are:

1. To be an emergency point of contact throughout the school term.
2. With the agreement of parents, to provide or arrange appropriate accommodation for the pupil:
   • During school holidays, half terms, exeat weekends.
   • If the school has to close temporarily because of an emergency, e.g. fire or an epidemic.
   • If the pupil is suspended or expelled or must have a period away from school on medical advice.
3. To organise transport for the pupil to and from school if required by the pupil’s parents and use the i-gtm system to inform the school about transport and accommodation arrangements for school holidays, exeats and half terms if the parent has not done so – this includes appropriate flight numbers, timings, addresses where pupils may be staying between arrival in the UK and the start of the school term, and mode of transport to school.

   Blundell’s School is legally required by UK Visa and Immigration to hold the full details of international pupils’ travel arrangements. We use the i-gtm system to do this and full information on how to use the system will be sent to you when the pupil starts.
   We do not provide an escort service for unaccompanied minors on an outward or return journey. If pupils require assistance under an unaccompanied minor programme, an escort to their check-in area /terminal or an escort from their arrival’s hall to the coach departure point, this is the responsibility of the parents and guardian to organise.

4. To be responsible for the pupil when they are in the UK and not under school jurisdiction.
5. To take decisions in emergencies on behalf of the parents in cases where the school is not empowered to do so, and the parents are not contactable. NB: The school holds authorisation to treat pupils in an emergency but will make every effort to contact parents/guardians before invoking this.
6. To keep in touch with the pupil’s House Parent and advise them of any change of contact details.
7. To receive essential correspondence from the school in relation to the logistical and practical arrangements concerning the pupil.
8. All changes to a guardian’s contact details must be sent to Mrs Sarah Cox (PA to the Second Master) using secondmaster@blundells.org. Mrs Cox is responsible for guardian administration.

Pupils may be asked to complete a duty of care survey after a stay with their Guardian or host family.

If at any time the guardian is unable to continue to carry out these duties, they are obliged to inform the Head of Blundell’s School, the pupil’s House Parent and Mrs Cox without delay. In such circumstances, it is understood that the school may have to make appropriate arrangements with an AEGIS Accredited Guardianship Agency and charge the parents accordingly.

Please complete the online Microsoft Form https://forms.office.com/e/9JfKRRtiaq

with the details of who will be acting as the guardian for your son/daughter for the academic year 2024 – 2025. Forms must be returned as soon as possible and at least three weeks before the pupil is due to start.

Please do not send the link to your nominated guardian, as we will send them a form for them to complete and return to us to confirm the guardianship, their contact details and acceptance of the obligations and duties required.

If you have any questions about the guardianship process, please contact Mrs Cox using secondmaster@blundells.org.

All Year 10 will join the CCF at the beginning of term and start completing training for their Army Proficiency Certificate

The purpose of the CCF is to provide ‘a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance’. Through the use of military based training and activities, the CCF seeks to promote qualities essential not just in the military, but in the wider community.

If our training aims could be summed up in one sentence, it is ‘To develop the personal character of a Blundellian through a range of exciting and challenging activities which are conducted in a safe and controlled manner’.

The CCF is not a recruitment organisation, and there is no expectation that cadets will go on to join the Armed Forces.

If you would like more information on the Blundell's CCF please contact Major B A Dawe MBE Contingent Commander bad@blundells.org

More information about the Blundell's CCF can be found here.

Please complete the form below

https://forms.office.com/e/ZFpP5tmwCu

The school policy is to endorse all Sporting Governing Bodies in their guidelines surrounding the use of dental protection within PE and games. All pupils taking part in Rugby, Hockey or Lacrosse throughout the school year will require a mouthguard.

Titan Mouthguards will be catering for all students wishing to purchase a custom-fit mouthguard and will be visiting the school on Tuesday 10th September.

Titan also offer a remote E-Fitting service, allowing pupils to have their mouthguards fitted and received in advance of the start of the 2024/2025 school year.

If you wish to take advantage of either service, please complete your online order form by clicking the following link: https://titanmouthguards.com/blundells-senior-school-order-form/

As well as their standard styles, Titan has designed a School Special Edition incorporating the school colours and crest. Custom-fit mouthguards start from £49.99, with replacement/spare guards starting at a reduced cost of £35. Titan’s prices are vastly reduced from dental practices and similar services and include:

Dental impression supervised by a member of the Titan team.

• Elite quality of fit using 3D printing technology in manufacturing.

• Highest industry level of protection and comfort available.

• Under-side of custom-fit guards embedded with the wearer’s name.

• Free of charge Boil-Fit included with fitting session orders for use during turnaround.

• Free of charge delivery.

• Comprehensive aftercare service with reduced price replacements and support year-round.

Titan also cater for those wearing a fixed brace with flexible Instant-Fit Ortho-Guards, rather than custom-fit guards. Ortho-Guards are recommended by the British Orthodontics Society as they allow for movement in the teeth, whilst retaining sufficient protection. These can be purchased using Titan's online form at a reduced cost.

Titan suggest that orders should be placed in advance of fitting sessions at the school to avoid any delays on the day of fitting itself or with getting guards back to you. There is a £5 admin fee on all orders placed on or after the day of your child’s fitting at school.

Any questions on school mouthguards or any of the details above should be sent directly to Titan (not to school staff) via their customer service email address:

info@titanmouthguards.com

At Blundell’s Senior School we have an extremely busy and vibrant Music Department catering for both academic and individual music lessons. Every term there are a huge variety of concerts ranging from informal year-group concerts to spectacular Orchestral, Choral and combined concerts, both in school and at external venues such as Exeter Cathedral. We also have a thriving jazz, rock and pop scene. There are over 350 music lessons a week, with well over a third of the school learning an instrument. With 29 ensembles rehearsing per week, there truly is something for every child.

Music Lessons

To register for Music Lessons please complete the survey form via the following link: Music Lessons Request Form

Please complete this form by 1st July.

We currently have 30 exceptional Visiting Music Teachers who are available to teach across a wide range of instruments and styles from beginners through to Diploma level and beyond. Students are entered regularly for ABRSM and Trinity classical grades, as well as Jazz and Rock & Pop Examinations.

We aim to provide 30 lessons of 40 minutes over an academic year, currently charged at £36* per lesson billed retrospectively at the end of the academic term. Accompanists are provided as required as part of this rate. Advanced aural (grade 6+) is also provided free of charge.

Lessons are available for:

Singing
Classical, musical theatre or pop

Keyboards
Piano – classical, pop or jazz
Organ

Guitar – classical, acoustic, electric or bass
Drums – kit or tuned percussion

Strings
Violin
Viola
Cello
Double Bass
Harp

Woodwind
Flute
Oboe
Bassoon
Clarinet
Saxophone

Brass
Trumpet
Cornet
French Horn
Trombone
Tuba

At Blundell’s we are committed to improving your child’s musicality and as such all pupils who take instrumental or vocal lessons are strongly encouraged and expected to be part of ensemble music-making in their chosen genre, either in the Orchestras, Choirs or bands. We will attempt to ensure pianists are also catered for.

All pupils are encouraged and invited to join free music theory lessons. These happen outside of curricular time (lunchtimes or before school) and are delivered by the Academic Music staff.

Choirs

We have a variety of very active Choirs that regularly perform both within school and externally. SH Choir is for those pupils in years 7 and 8 and Full Choir is for those in years 9 and above. All are welcome to join in and pupils do not have to be having lessons to do so. For those that wish to sing more or to take their singing further there is Chamber Choir for Years 9-13, Chapel Choir for Years 3-13, Boys and Girls Close Harmony groups and our auditioned elite choir, Blundell’s Cantorum.

Instrumental Groups
There are 29 ensemble rehearsals a week in the Music Department, and your child can choose to join the Full Orchestra, the Big Band, School House Instrumentalists, String Orchestra, Brass Group, Senior and Junior Flute Group, Percussion Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble and a myriad of other instrumental groups. There are also year-group chamber ensembles for scholars and invited non-scholars run by a professional chamber music coach. For pop and rock musicians there are a number of clubs and student bands are strongly encouraged to perform and rehearse.

For any further enquiries regarding choirs, instrumental ensembles or the Music Department generally, please contact the Music Administrator, Mrs Alison Watmore music@blundells.org

* Subject to increase for 2024/25, further details will follow

All Blundell's pupils are offered the opportunity to take Speech and Drama lessons. The aim of these lessons is to explore language and performance, develop self-confidence and to teach the power of the spoken word, both our own and that of authors, poets and playwrights.

The range of work in Speech and Drama is very comprehensive. As well as the study of voice production, it encompasses acting, mime, improvisation, public speaking, interview technique, verse and prose speaking, spoken English and English as an additional language.

Examinations are offered which are recognised as an awarding body by the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) and the higher grades have been included in the UCAS tariff and will add valuable points. Blundell's pupils have enjoyed notable success in these examinations over the years, with a 100% pass rate and the majority of students achieving Distinctions in their chosen subject.

There are at least ten 40 minutes sessions per term, at a current cost of £260.00 for the term. Students are tutored, individually or in pairs, to benefit from interacting and experimenting with others, but giving plenty of opportunity for personal attention. Weekly lessons are on a rolling timetable to ensure that students do not miss the same lesson more than once a term.

Competition for places is keen and places are allocated on a first come first served basis and then a waiting list operates. Please note that lessons automatically continue from term to term and that pupils will carry on when they join the senior school in Year 9. Please note that one term's written notice is needed if your child wishes to stop.

Yours sincerely

Mrs Rachel Milne
Speech and Drama

Please complete the form below

https://forms.office.com/e/6AeEDNa6w2

Also see https://blundells.org/senior-s...

Our aim is for every pupil to have an engaging Tennis experience here at Blundell’s. Pupils who become part of the Tennis Programme will work on the latest techniques, gain understanding and knowledge of tactics and match play whilst enjoying playing the game.

The group sessions take place during lunchtimes and groups are usually based around ability. The experienced coach designs all sessions to maximise a pupil’s progress, participants will benefit from receiving support both individually and in groups as required. In the unlikely event of no playing facility, the Director of Racket Sports will arrange to use an appropriate indoor facility for classroom based analysis or fitness based tuition.

The Tennis Coaching Programme is currently £115.00* per term, this fee is added to the school bill at the end of that term - please see the terms and conditions below.

Terms and Conditions for Tennis Coaching

• Lessons will run for 10 weeks on average each term
• The Director of Racket Sports holds the right to decide when best for pupils to received 1:1 sessions during the term
• The Director of Racket Sports holds the right to reduce the termly charge, only if the coaches are unable to run one or more sessions during the 10 weeks of term
• The Director of Racket Sports requires written confirmation and one term's full notice to cancel lessons.

Should the sessions become oversubscribed, places will be issued on a first come, first serve basis.

To register your child for a place, please complete the form:

For more information and to book Tennis coaching please complete the form https://forms.office.com/e/A7AeA4qVzw

If you wish to discuss the Tennis Programme, please email: jgh@blundells.org

Mr James Hope
Director of Racket Sports

* Subject to increase for 2024/25, further details will follow

Equestrianism at Blundell’s has remained a key part of the extensive and ever-expanding sports programme of events available to Blundellians. For those of you who wish to pursue riding opportunities either through instruction after school or competing for school at the weekends, every opportunity is considered.

After an extremely successful One Day Event last year, the school will be taking a one-year break in hosting and look forward to holding the event again as of September 2025. The day, a feature in the eventing calendar, always attracts many entries from schools throughout the South-West. The proceeds from this One Day Event fund our equestrian entries throughout the year and so will be an important event on the Blundell’s Equestrian calendar. If you would like to be involved as a member of the Equestrian Committee for future years, opt to help on the day or support the efforts of fundraising, then please email equestrian@blundells.org stating your interest.

All Blundellians are very welcome to represent the school at any equestrian event organised by NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association) which are scheduled in our School Calendar. Teams are allocated after the close of entries. If you have any general queries about any event, or which class(es) your child should enter, please do get in touch via equestrian@blundells.org. Whilst we would encourage you to enter other school-based events which may qualify you as an individual or Team to represent the school, only the list of events scheduled in the school calendar will be attended by a school representative.

Please could you complete the ‘Equestrian Questionnaire’ using the link https://forms.office.com/e/zei6SjW336

Alternatively, please email equestrian@blundells.org to register your interest and ask any questions you may have. Your details will then be added to our Equestrian Team Database and if you choose to compete with us, you will be registered with the NSEA, the cost of which is funded by the school.

Finally, if you or anyone you know would wish to advertise in the One Day Event programme or sponsor a fence please contact devoffice@blundells.org. Sponsorship is going to be key to a successful event.

Yours faithfully

Miss Morgan Pearce
equestrian@blundells.org

Confirmation 2025 for Year 9 pupils upwards

If your son or daughter has been christened/baptised then being confirmed is the next part of the process. This is a first step into adulthood and will provide them with a truer understanding of who they are. Not only that but they will also have some experience of the support, care and guidance that the Church can offer on life’s pilgrimage. Preparation will begin at the start of the Autumn Term and the confirmation itself will take place in the Spring of 2025 (date to be confirmed).

Please complete the form below by 1st August or contact the Chaplain, the Rev'd Tim Hunt for more Information: tch@blundells.org

https://forms.office.com/e/8tB2A3SVPy

Dear Parents

For those of you who already know Blundell’s may I warmly welcome you to the Senior School and for those new to this place an especially warm welcome to all of you.

Chapel is central to school life and your children will indeed come to know it very well. Christian values of love, respect, kindness, tolerance, peace and justice are affirmed by Blundell’s and Chapel has a key role in encouraging not only these, but a place for spirituality in the life of all who pass through its doors. I would like to offer my prayers and blessing to you all as the new academic year approaches.

I would like you also to know that you are always very welcome to join us for services on Sundays and especially for those bigger occasions which mark important events in the year.

In the first instance I would, however, like to draw the following to your attention

Welcome Service (Salvete Scholastici) - Sunday 22nd September 11.00 a.m. for all new pupils and parents

This year we once again invite all new pupils and parents to a Welcome Service. We hope very much that you will be able to attend. The service will be followed by refreshments.

Lunch for new pupils and parents Sunday 22nd September 12.15 p.m.

Following the above Service there will be a lunch. We invite all new pupils and parents to attend. We would be most grateful if you could please fill in the form link below confirming your attendance by 1st August.

I look forward to seeing you.

With all good wishes
Yours sincerely
The Rev’d Timothy C Hunt

If you would like to attend the Salvete Scholastici please complete the form link below

https://forms.office.com/e/X6eCGJ8WvJ

Senior Squad (U17/18) Pre-season training dates. No need to book!

Pre-season training is a great way for the players to get back out on the field together, and start building towards the start of what is going to be an exciting rugby season. We do understand some of you will have other commitments through the holidays, so pre-season is not compulsory, but we would love to see as many of you there as possible.

Pre-season is open to ALL players who are keen to come along and get involved

The meeting point will be the pavilion next to the 1st XV pitch - Please be on time.

AUGUST

BOYS

27th - Tuesday Years 12 / 13 Pre-Season Arrive 10am (stay overnight)

28th - Wednesday Years 12 / 13 Pre-Season (stay overnight)

29th - Thursday Years 12 / 13 Pre-Season 12:30 Pick Up

29th – Thursday Years 10 / 11 Pre-season arrive 10:00 (stay overnight)

30th – Friday Years 10 / 11 Pre-season (14:00 training game TBC) Pick up 16:00

More details regarding year 10 / 11 / 12 /13 pre-season on the 27th / 28th / 29th / 30th will be sent out shortly

31st - Saturday - Kingswood festival for the senior squad. Depart 08:30 Return 17:00

SEPTEMBER

GIRLS - PRE SEASON

2nd - Monday - Year 10/11/12/13 meet 10am (stay overnight in sports hall) Tuesday 3rd pick up 1230

BOYS

2nd - Monday - Year 12/13 - 12:30 - 16:30

3rd - Tuesday - Year 10 & 11 09:00 - 13:00 / Year 9 12:30 - 16:30

7th Saturday No Game - Training only

What you’ll need for your pre-season training 2nd / 3rd September.

Blundell’s training kit, boots, trainers, gum shield, water bottle, suntan lotion, snacks.

If you have any questions at all regarding pre-season, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Regards

Tony Yapp ty@blundells.org

Insurance information to follow

Blundell’s School offers a wide range of sports and activities and a very competitive fixture list. From time to time pupils unfortunately suffer from a range of musculoskeletal injuries.

A private physiotherapy service is available to pupils through Ocean Physiotherapy www.oceanphysio.com. Every pupil is entitled to a free triage session but referral for this must come from the Medical Centre. If, following the triage assessment, further treatment is required, Ocean Physio will liaise with parents directly for approval to proceed. Payment can then be made directly to Ocean Physio or covered through the School’s Medical Healthcare Scheme (please see below) or through another health insurer, following the necessary pre-authorisation. Following the free triage assessment, further sessions with Ocean Physio currently costs £45.00 each. The School does not get involved in the payment method, this is a private contract between Ocean Physio and the pupils’ parent or guardian.

Ocean Physio will keep the Medical Centre updated on your child’s progress and rehabilitation.

It is anticipated that Ocean Physio will visit the school twice weekly on a Monday and a Thursday although the frequency and day may vary, depending on the demand.

There is absolutely no obligation to use Ocean Physiotherapy as there is a good NHS physiotherapy option in Tiverton, but it does tend to carry a longer waiting time.

The school is a member of the AXA PPP Healthcare Scheme. For a premium of £126.00 a term, the insured receives extensive medical cover which includes eligible out-patients therapies, including physiotherapy, there is no yearly limit on fees up to a combined overall maximum of 10 sessions in a year when you child’s GP refers them. A link to the online form to apply to join the AXA PPP Healthcare Scheme can be found on the fees section of the School’s website.

Please note inclusion in the AXA PPP Healthcare Scheme is dependent on the following Conditions:

- No new applications will be accepted after the end of the first week of term.

- Your child cannot be included in the AXA PPP Healthcare Scheme unless a completed application form and premium of £126.00 has been received by the Bursary.

- Authorisation needs to be obtained from AXA PPP Healthcare prior to any treatment being undertaken.

- It is not permissible to opt in and out of the service on a term by term basis.

www.oceanphysiocom

We are very much looking forward to welcoming your child(ren) to Blundell’s. For all pupils new to Blundell's there is an Induction day on Wednesday 4th September and the first day of term is Thursday 5th September.

Please note that the start of term arrangements are not the same for everyone. They are tailored to different groups of new pupils. This allows us to provide you and your child with a calm and organised start to school, giving you the information that is relevant to your family.

Your House Parent will be in touch with you prior to the start of term with your families individual arrivals appointment.

If you have any questions, please refer to your House Handbook (in the Useful Information section) or contact your House Parent for more information.

Francis House - Mr Richard Walter rjw@blundells.org

Gorton House - Mrs Sarah Holman sh@blundells.org

North Close - Ms Linda Hunt lmh@blundells.org

Old House - Luke Barnsbrook lpnb@blundells.org

Petergate - Mr Henry Roffe-Silvester hrs@blundells.org

School House – Mr James Rochfort jar@blundells.org


WEDNESDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER – INDUCTION DAY

Please try to arrive a short time before your pre-allocated or scheduled arrival time. If you do need to come to school early, our Friends of Blundell’s (FOBS) Café will be available for you to have refreshments and wait. Thank you.

Please park in our Main School Car Park (this will be signed from Blundell's Road). Monitors (responsible current pupils) will be on hand to help you find your destination.

INTERNATIONAL PUPILS (as per the timetable emailed to you – this is a summary only)

09.00-10.30
Arrive at Ondaatje Hall prior to your pre-allocated Boarding House appointment – You will be welcomed and registered and then taken to meet your House Parent, Matron and personal Tutor, unpack and settle in.

Tours of School by House Monitors available if time

Refreshments available for parents in FOBs Café

11.00
Welcome address from the Head, Mr Wielenga in Ondaatje Hall.

11.30
Pupils go with EAL Department – Explanation of daily routines, (Medical Centre, Chapel, Dining Hall etc)

Parents – Introduction to Academic Programme by Mr List (CHL) – tutoring, parents’ meetings, reporting etc.

Parents – Introduction to Medical Centre by Caroline Edwards (Senior Nurse)

12.15

Parents - escorted through Medical Centre (by Mr Dylan Smart) then to lunch

12.30pm
Lunch in Dining Hall – Parents & pupils

1.15pm

Parents – coffee in Big School and farewell to Pupils – parents to leave the campus

1.30pm

New Year 12 International Pupils – join other new Year 12 pupils in their boarding house for Year 12 Induction Programme

1.30-5.30pm

New Year 9 – 11 International Pupils depart for off-campus fun activity with EAL Staff

5.30pm

Pupils return to boarding houses for tea

If you have children joining multiple Year Groups you may find the table here useful.

FIRST DAY OF TERM – THURSDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER

We are very much looking forward to welcoming your child(ren) to Blundell’s. For all pupils new to Blundell's there is an Induction day on Wednesday 4th September and the first day of term is Thursday 5th September.

If you have any questions, please refer to your House Handbook (in the Useful Information section) or contact your House Parent for more information.

Mr James Rochfort jar@blundells.org

WEDNESDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER – INDUCTION DAY

Please try to arrive a short time before your pre-allocated or scheduled arrival time. If you do need to come to school early, our Friends of Blundell’s (FOBS) Café will be available for you to have refreshments and wait. Please do not arrive in House more than a few minutes before your allotted time. Thank you.

Please park in our Main School Car Park (this will be signed from the main Blundell's Road). Monitors (responsible current pupils) will be on hand to help you find your house or destination.

All new School House Pupils (Years 7 and 8) should arrive in uniform.

09.00
International pupils arrive to School House (SH) to meet Mr Rochfort (SH House Parent). Pupils also use this time to unpack and settle in.

10.00
UK based full/weekly boarders arrive at SH to meet Mr Rochfort and to unpack and settle in.

10.30
UK based flexi boarders arrive at SH to meet Mr Rochfort and to unpack and settle in.

11.00
All pupils arrive Big School for registration.

Parents drop pupils and may stay for refreshments in the dining hall.

Pupils welcome talk in Big School.

12.30
Lunch in Dining Hall – pupils only

13.15
All pupils back to tutor rooms for ongoing induction.

14.30
Ongoing induction with tutors.

15.00
Parents meet in Big School for talk from Head and Mr Rochfort ahead of collecting pupils.

15.30
Pupils gather in Dining Hall for drink and doughnut.

16.00
Day pupils/pupils not staying the night: collection by parents.

Boarders: collected and brought back to SH.

New pupil tea in Houses (to included Day Pupils’ parents).

If you have children joining multiple Year Groups you may find the table here useful.

FIRST DAY OF TERM – THURSDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER

We are very much looking forward to welcoming your child(ren) to Blundell’s. For all pupils new to Blundell's there is an Induction day on Wednesday 4th September and the first day of term is Thursday 5th September.

Please note that the start of term arrangements are not the same for everyone. They are tailored to different groups of new pupils. This allows us to provide you and your child with a calm and organised start to school, giving you the information that is relevant to your family.

Your House Parent will be in touch approximately 2 weeks before the start of term with your families individual arrivals appointment.

If you have any questions, please refer to your House Handbook (in the Useful Information section) or contact your House Parent for more information.

Francis House - Mr Richard Walter rjw@blundells.org

Gorton House - Mrs Sarah Holman sh@blundells.org

North Close - Ms Linda Hunt lmh@blundells.org

Old House - Luke Barnsbrook lpnb@blundells.org

Petergate - Mr Henry Roffe-Silvester hrs@blundells.org


WEDNESDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER – INDUCTION DAY

Please try to arrive a short time before your pre-allocated or scheduled arrival time. If you do need to come to school early, our Friends of Blundell’s (FOBS) Café will be available for you to have refreshments and wait. Please do not arrive in House more than a few minutes before your allotted time. Thank you.

Please park in our Main School Car Park (this will be signed from Blundell's Road). Monitors (responsible current pupils) will be on hand to help you find your house or destination.

NEW YEAR 12 PUPILS

Afternoon arrival

13.30

House Parents will contact you to arrange pre-allocated arrival time.

FOBs café available for those who arrive early and need to wait for 14.30 start.

Parents depart once they have met with House Parent and settle child into their room.

14.30
Welcome talk – Ondaatje Hall

Tour of School in tutor groups, led by tutors.

15.30
Pupils return to Ondaatje. For briefing and games.

17.00
BBQ for new Year 12 pupils outside Beale Centre.

17.30
Collection time for Year 12 Day to be confirmed.

If you have children joining multiple Year Groups you may find the table here useful.

FIRST DAY OF TERM – THURSDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER

All day students should arrive to their houses between 0800-0815 on Thursday 5th September.

We are very much looking forward to welcoming your child(ren) to Blundell’s. For all pupils new to Blundell's there is an Induction day on Wednesday 4th September and the first day of term is Thursday 5th September.

Please note that the start of term arrangements are not the same for everyone. They are tailored to different groups of new pupils. This allows us to provide you and your child with a calm and organised start to school, giving you the information that is relevant to your family.

Your House Parent will be in touch approximately 2 weeks before the start of term with your families individual arrivals appointment.

If you have any questions, please refer to your House Handbook (in the Useful Information section) or contact your House Parent for more information.

Francis House - Mr Richard Walter rjw@blundells.org

Gorton House - Mrs Sarah Holman sh@blundells.org

North Close - Ms Linda Hunt lmh@blundells.org

Old House - Luke Barnsbrook lpnb@blundells.org

Petergate - Mr Henry Roffe-Silvester hrs@blundells.org


WEDNESDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER – INDUCTION DAY

Please try to arrive a short time before your pre-allocated or scheduled arrival time. If you do need to come to school early, our Friends of Blundell’s (FOBS) Café will be available for you to have refreshments and wait. Please do not arrive in House more than a few minutes before your allotted time. Thank you.

Please park in our Main School Car Park (this will be signed from the Blundell's Road). Monitors (responsible current pupils) will be on hand to help you find your house or destination.

NEW UK BASED YEARS 9, 10 and 11 DAY, FLEXI, WEEKLY or FULL BOARDING PUPILS

Afternoon arrival

13.30
FOBs café available for those who arrive early and need to wait for the14.30 start.

14.30
House Parents will contact you to arrange pre-allocated arrival time.

16.00
New pupil tea in Houses (to included Day Pupils’ parents).

17.00
Welcome Talk from the Head.

17.30
Day pupils/those not staying the night to depart after the Head’s talk.

If you have children joining multiple Year Groups you may find the table here useful.

FIRST DAY OF TERM – THURSDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER

All day students should arrive to their houses between 0800-0815 on Thursday 5th September.

School Fees 2024-25

School Fees 2023-24 – summary of termly fees and charges

Fees Prepayment Scheme

Payment Methods

We offer the following options for payment of school fees:

1: Payment by bank transfer (including your child’s pupil number as a reference) for the full billed amount on or before the first day of each term.

2: Termly Direct Debit: this will enable you to continue paying your school fees termly, but without the need to issue a written cheque. Collection of fees, including “extras”, from your bank account will take place on the first day of each term. Any subsequent adjustments regarding “extras” will be reflected on the following term’s fee bill.

3: Monthly Direct Debit: this will enable you to spread your annual fees and “extras” bill over a twelve-month period, without incurring an interest charge. The direct debit collection schedule will be as follows:

Autumn Term: Main school fee collected in three equal instalments on 1st August, 1st September and 1st October. ‘Extras’ collected on 1st November.

Spring Term: Main school fee collected in three equal instalments on 1st December, 2nd January and 1st February. ‘Extras’ collected on 1st March.

Summer Term: Main school fee collected in three equal instalments on 1st April, 1st May and 1st June. ‘Extras’ collected on 1st July.

For further information on Direct Debits, and for a Direct Debit Mandate Form, please contact Miss Izzy Slegg in the Bursary. (i.slegg@blundells.org). Please note, a separate direct debit mandate is required per child; mandates will need to be returned to the Bursary by 14th July 2024.

Please note, the facility to pay by direct debit is only available to UK bank account holders and is only available for those pupils in full-time education from Reception to Year 13.

4 Fees in Advance – For further information on the School’s Fees in Advance Scheme please contact the Bursary. (fia@blundells.org) Please note, the Fees in Advance Scheme is only available for pupils in full-time education from Reception to Year 13.

Information about our uniform requirements, ordering, measuring, names tapes, second-hand and new uniform can be found here https://blundells.org/senior-school/information-1/school-shop

Our School Shop is open by appointment only for Sports kit and any other items over the summer break. If you have not made an appointment please contact the shop on shop@blundells.org to do so.

BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE (Pupil laptops)

What you need to know before buying or bringing your own device

• From September 2024 we will be implementing a defined Bring Your Own Device policy at school for pupils in Year 9 and above.
• We will provide detailed guidance around the devices we recommend.
• We will be asking parents to provide the device.
• Pupils will be able to continue to use their current device from September 2024, within a few wide parameters, as we move to a more consistent approach over the 2024-2026 period.

We have been operating a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy for pupils in Year 10 and up at Blundell’s for many years. Pupils have generally brought laptops to school for their coursework completion, and we have seen an increase in pupils bringing surfaces to allow notetaking and organisation of resources, particularly at Sixth Form level. We have upgraded our Wi-Fi system over the last two years, and we regularly have over 1200 wireless devices connected to our network.

With the growth in the use of technology in education we have decided that the time is right for all pupils from Year 9 and up to bring a device to each classroom-based lesson to support their learning from September 2024. Staff are already using Teams and OneNote and the intention is that we will be able to move away from textbooks and files and all pupil work will be stored solely online. A common device and related systems will make distributing resources, for example prep or revision, tidier and easier. We will be structuring resources in different departments/classes in a common format, to make it straightforward for pupils to locate the materials they need. This will help pupils with organisation of their work and support easier access to the myriad of excellent online support to learning that are now available.

Our intention is to restrict the device type a pupil may use while they are at school to ensure that pupils are equipped with the correct tools for learning. To arrive at our chosen device, we have carried out an extensive trial process over the last academic year with a group of pupils. We have tested a range of options and will be recommending a particular device, but also giving parents/guardians a choice to purchase something different, as long as it meets a set of requirements. We have also explored options for management of pupil devices, and we have found that the externally managed schemes that provide devices are expensive and do not provide good value for money.

We are strongly recommending a Microsoft Surface, but we will also suggest a selection of other supported devices which meet our minimum essential specifications. These are detailed at the end of this letter. All our staff already have a Surface device and so are familiar with the technology.

We are asking that parents/ pupils own the device and that we work together in managing apps and website access, so that during the school day devices are solely for educational use; more details about how this will work will be provided in due course.

NB If a pupil has a device that is working well for them, we are not asking them to replace it for September. They will be able to bring it to lessons and it will be well used. We are asking that, if a new device is being purchased for a pupil, it fits in with our essential specification list.

The device

Our preferred device is the Microsoft Surface Pro (including the optional keyboard and pen).

Bring Your Own Device 2024

We utilise the ISAMS system to communicate timetables, reports and much more. You will receive a Parent Login during the Summer break together with instructions about how to set up your account. Student logins will be provided by their Tutors at the start of term.

You can read about the system here: Apps for Teachers, Students and Parents - iSAMS

Pupil Phone Use

Years 7-8
Please note that, while storage provision will be made for pupils in Year 7 and 8 who bring phones into school, we do not recommend that Year 7 and 8 Pupils have phones in school at all and that, if they do, they are not smart phones, but much simpler 'brick' type devices that allow only the making/receiving of phone calls and texts .

Years 9-11
The core elements of the school’s mobile phone policy are as follows

• Pupils are allowed to bring mobile phones to and from school.
• Pupils must not use a mobile phone, smart watch or headphones anywhere in school during the school day, except under the specific direction of a teacher.
• If a pupil brings their phone to the school, then on arrival it must be switched off and kept out of sight by being handed in to the House Parent, or their representative, in House. It should not carried around school.
• For the purposes of this policy, the school day begins the moment the pupils enter the school site and ends once the pupils leave the school site. In practice this means pupils will hand their phone in before 8.25am, and will be able to collect it no earlier than 5.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. On Wednesdays pupils will be able to collect their phones before town leave. On Saturdays, pupils will be able to collect their phones after Period 3.
• Breaches of this policy will result in sanctions being applied to the relevant pupils, as outlined in the School Rules and our Behaviour Management Policy
• The Head reserves the right to allow phones for selected pupils given individual circumstances, for example a medical condition.

Years 12 and 13
Pupils in Year 12 and 13 are encouraged to follow the same guidelines as pupils in Years 9-11 but will be allowed to carry their phone with them during the day at school providing that:

• They follow the school “invisibility” policy (i.e. phones are never seen around campus)
• Phones are not used in common areas in House or any social events, unless expressly allowed
• They can set a good role model to the younger years in Houses

Trips and sports matches

• Phone use on a trip away from school or to a sports match will be at the discretion of the trip organiser and the Second Master. Unless permission is expressly given, phones will not be allowed.

Pupils will be asked to provide the school with the make, model and serial number of their phone.

Boarding Pupil Phone use
Since the Boarding House is a pupil’s home overnight, pupils who are boarding for that night, whether they be Full, Weekly or Flexi, will be given the opportunity to use their phones at set times in the evenings and at weekends, under the direction of their House Parent, or their representatives. Boarders will hand their phones in overnight to their House Parent, or their representative.

Contacting Pupils and Parents/Carers
Parents wishing to contact their child during the school day should ring the school. We have a well-established and efficient system for getting messages to pupils and pastoral support if it is needed. Parents wishing to contact their child after the school day should ring their House Parent, or House Matron. Pupils who need to contact parents in an emergency should speak to the School Office, their House Parent, or House Matron, who will make a phone available.

Sanctions
If a phone is seen by a member of staff it will be confiscated by them. Once confiscated, this will be handed in to the School Office where it will be stored safely. School rules on acceptable use of mobile phones - including on conduct such as bullying, harassment, abusive or sexual behaviour – remain in full effect, and where appropriate will receive sanctions accordingly. Full detail can be found in the school’s Behaviour Management, Anti-Bullying and Rewards and Sanctions Policies.

Loss, theft or damage
Confiscated phones will be stored in the School Office in a secure location. Lost phones should be returned to the School Office.

THE MEDICAL CENTRE

Blundell’s Medical Centre is staffed by a team of 7 qualified nurses led by Senior Nurse, Caroline Edwards. The Medical Centre is fully staffed Monday to Saturday 08:00- 18:00hrs with on-call cover outside these hours. The Medical Centre is also able to accommodate pupils who need to stay overnight due to illness, with overnight staffing in these instances.

Contact details:

Email: medical@blundells.org or seniornurse@blundells.org

Phone: 01884 232422

Address: Medical Centre, Blundell’s School, Blundell’s Road, Tiverton EX16 4DR

The School’s lead medical officer is Dr Frank O’Kelly from Clare House Surgery in Tiverton. Clare House Surgery provides medical support throughout the school year. Additional medical support is also available from Tiverton Hospital at the Urgent Care Unit (approx. 2 miles away) and from the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (approx. 20 miles away).

The Medical Centre runs a doctor’s surgery at lunchtime 12.30-14.00 Monday, Wednesday and Friday, where either Dr O’Kelly or another Clare House doctor is available to see boarders with medical concerns. All full and weekly boarders are automatically registered at Clare House Surgery. The nurses will see all pupils as walk-ins and refer where necessary for further medical review. If a pupil becomes unwell or is injured, all attempts will be made to contact their next of kin. The pupil will be cared for in the Medical Centre or taken to hospital, if required.

The Medical Centre exists to support and care for all pupils, although the exact nature of this will vary dependent upon boarding status. Full and weekly boarders are effectively patients of the Medical Centre, and all appointments and associated transportation will be arranged as needed. In the event of illness, flexi boarders will also be cared for in the Medical Centre if they are boarding that night. Otherwise next of kin will be contacted to collect for home. Flexi boarders and day pupils remain patients of their own GP surgery, and while the Medical Centre will always take care of pupils taken ill or injured at school, parents or guardians will be contacted to collect from school if pupils become injured or unwell during the school day.

Every House in school is allocated a named link nurse, as identified on the Medical Centre notice board in each House. The link nurse liaises with the House staff regarding medical conditions or health related issues with pupils. Our school counsellor, Vicky Hughes is also available to every pupil throughout the week. Pupils can contact her directly on vlh@blundells.org or an appointment can be arranged through the Medical Centre. During the Autumn and Winter terms, all matches are attended by an outside First Aid Agency who provide pitch side assistance and transportation.

ILLNESS

Parents should not send their child to school if they are unwell. If a child has vomiting/diarrhoea symptoms parents should keep them away from school for 48 hours after the last episode. The Medical staff are happy to advise parents on 01884 232422.

Key information about your House (you will also be sent a printed copy)

AGES 11-13 Year Groups 7 & 8

School House Handbook 2024

AGES 13-17 Year Groups 9-12

Francis House Handbook 2024

Gorton House Handbook 2024

North Close Handbook 2024

Old House Handbook 2024

Petergate Handbook 2024

AGES 17-18 Year 13

Westlake Handbook 2024

Senior School Boarders List - Boys

Home clothes & additional items

Boarders will need home clothes, which can be worn after school hours and at the weekends. Please bring a selection of clothing, casual, smart and for all weather conditions. Money - pupils should keep only a small amount in their possession. There is a House safe for security of larger sums.

• Large suitcase (stored on-site during termtime)
• Jumpers/sweatshirts/hoodies
• Trousers/jeans/chinos/shorts/tracksuit
• Shirts/tops/t-shirts
• Underwear & socks
• Nightwear
• Large towels (ideally with hanging loops)
• Two named duvet covers - duvets, pillows and protectors will be provided from September. If pupils wish to bring their own, they will need to have a minimum fire rating of 2.
• Dark coloured coat
• Outdoor shoes
• Wash bag with personal toiletries
• A medium sized net laundry bag
• School equipment (stationery) for use in lessons in a named pencil case, including a scientific calculator (available from school).

Additional Suggestions:

• Weekend bag/case
• A padlock to secure a lockable drawer in dorms
• Rucksack
• Sportswear & kit
• Dressing gown
• Slippers
• An alarm clock.
• Wellington boots
• A named bedside/desk lamp.

Pupils may wish to bring their own hairdryer, radio, speaker, photos, posters to personalise their sleeping area. All laundry is washed on-site, therefore all clothing (home clothes & uniform) need to be clearly name taped and include their house initials after their name. e.g. Jack Hughes P.G.

Please note: Personal televisions, kettles, heaters, electric blankets etc are not allowed.

Special Events

There will be occasions during the year when pupils will need to wear smart home clothes. This is usually chinos, shirt and jacket for the boys.

School House pupils (Years 7 & 8)

Items required for weekend activities throughout the year - weatherproof coat, scarf, gloves, wellington boots and swimming costume.

Sixth Formers (Years 12 & 13)

A dark/sober colour suit with white/light coloured shirt for formal occasions will be needed.

Senior School Boarders List - Girls

Home clothes & additional items

Boarders will need home clothes, which can be worn after school hours and at the weekends. Please bring a selection of clothing, casual, smart and for all weather conditions. Money - pupils should keep only a small amount in their possession. There is a House safe for security of larger sums.

• Large suitcase (stored on-site during termtime)
• Jumpers/sweatshirts/hoodies
• Skirts/trousers/jeans/shorts/tracksuit/dresses
• Shirts/tops/t-shirts
• Underwear/socks and sports bra
• Nightwear
• Large towels (ideally with hanging loops)
• Two named duvet covers - duvets, pillows and protectors will be provided from September. If pupils wish to bring their own, they will need to have a minimum fire rating of 2.
• Dark coloured coat
• Outdoor shoes
• Wash bag with personal toiletries
• A medium sized net laundry bag
• School equipment (stationery) for use in lessons in a named pencil case, including a scientific calculator (available from school).

Additional Suggestions:

• Weekend bag/case
• A padlock to secure a lockable drawer in dorms
• Rucksack
• Sportswear & kit
• Dressing gown
• Slippers
• An alarm clock.
• Wellington boots
• A named bedside/desk lamp.

Pupils may wish to bring their own hairdryer, radio, speaker, photos, posters to personalise their sleeping area. All laundry is washed on-site, therefore all clothing (home clothes & uniform) need to be clearly name taped and include their house initials after their name. e.g. Jenny Hughes G.H.

Please note: Personal televisions, kettles, heaters, electric blankets etc are not allowed.

Special Events

There will be occasions during the year when pupils will need to wear smart home clothes. This is usually trousers/skirt and a smart top, or a dress for the girls.

School House pupils (Years 7 & 8)

Items required for weekend activities throughout the year - weatherproof coat, scarf, gloves, wellington boots and swimming costume.

Sixth Formers (Years 12 & 13)

A dark/sober colour suit with white/light coloured shirt for formal occasions will be needed.

The Blundell's campus is safe and extensive covering 120 acres and includes thirteen rugby pitches, nine cricket squares and two all-weather floodlit hockey pitches.

Download campus plan

AUTUMN TERM 2024

New Pupils Induction Day Wednesday 4th September - 9.00am - 6.00pm (parents 9.00am - 1.15pm)
Boarders return Wednesday 4th September - 6.00pm - 9.00pm
Term starts Thursday 5th September - 8.15am
Half term Friday 18th October 4.00pm - Sunday 3rd November 6.00pm*/**
Exeat weekend Friday 22nd November 12.40pm - Sunday 24th November 6.00pm
Term ends Wednesday 11th December 1.00pm (SH: 10th Dec 5.30pm)

*From Autumn Term 2024 onwards Overseas pupils will no longer be expected to leave school for Exeat weekends.

**It is possible that the Upper Sixth A-Level Geography Exam will fall during this Half Term. We will let those affected know when the CIE timetables for the exams are published.

SPRING TERM 2025

Boarders return Monday 6th January 6.00pm - 9.00pm
Term starts Tuesday 7th January 8.15am
Exeat weekend Friday 24th January 12.40pm - Sunday 26th January 6.00pm*
Half term Friday 14th February 4.00pm - Sunday 23rd February 6.00pm
Term ends Friday 28th March 1.00pm

SUMMER TERM 2025

Boarders Return Tuesday 22nd April 6.00pm - 9.00pm
Term starts Wednesday 23rd April 8.15am
Half term Friday 23rd May 4.00pm - Sunday 1st June 6.00pm
Term ends (Speech Day) Friday 4th July 4.30pm

We currently run a minibus service to seven different locations in Devon and Somerset, six mornings (Monday to Saturday) and four evenings (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday) a week, throughout the School year.

In North Devon we have two routes:

Barnstaple which incorporates South Molton and Moortown Cross on the A361 and Dulverton which stops at Exebridge and Bampton.

Crediton is the third route with stops at the Devonshire Dumpling (Copplestone), Crediton and Cadbury Cross.

There is an Exe Valley route which stops at the Ruffwell Inn, Stoke Canon and Exeter St David's station and a M5 route which starts at Lympstone and incorporates a stop at Cullompton.

The final two routes travel the furthest with the Sidmouth and Heathfield Runs.

The Sidmouth route starts at Sidford park carpark with further stops at the Hare and Hounds in Sidford, East Devon Business Services in Honiton and Daisymount on the A30.

The Heathfield route has its start at the Heathfield Industrial Estate Newton Abbot and travels along the A38 and stops at Costa / McDonalds opposite Exeter Racecourse.

Please note the Kingsbridge and Crewkerne (Cricket St Thomas pick up) service runs on Monday mornings only for weekly boarders.

Our minibus fleet will be all new vehicles for Autumn Term 2024.

MINIBUS BOOKING SITE

To login, you simply use your existing Parent Portal login details, which will be sent to you during the summer.

The system offers a host of features including online booking, journey planning, the option to check availability and capacity on routes, as well as other useful features including live-tracking, Google Map locations, and the ability for parents to be alerted if minibuses are running late or otherwise delayed.

General information

A transport service is provided between Heathrow Airport and Blundell’s at the start and end of each term and half term break. We do not provide transport at the start or end of Exeat weekends or to and from any other UK departure point.

The transport service from Heathrow Airport to Blundell’s at the start of the Autumn Term is not offered to new international pupils on this one occasion only as they are required to attend the Induction Day on the day before the term starts and our coach transport will not get them to school in time to take part. It is available on all other occasions as specified during the academic year.

It is the responsibility of the pupils’ parents and guardians to book flights, taxis, trains or other forms of transport on arrival in, or departure from, the UK except as stated above.

We do not provide an escort service for unaccompanied minors on an outward or return journey. If assistance is required under an unaccompanied minor programme, an escort to their check-in area /terminal or an escort from their arrival’s hall to the minibus departure point, this is the responsibility of the parents and guardian. Even if your child’s age means they are considered an adult by the airline they are flying with, you should be aware that regulations will differ from country to country on arrival. This means for example, that if a child aged 12 travels to the UK on an airline that considers them to be an adult, they will not be allowed to leave UK immigration by officials unless a responsible adult is there to meet them.

Full details of a pupil’s travel to and from the UK are to be supplied to the school via the online Form which is regularly updated and made available to parents and guardians several weeks in advance of the date of travel. Amendments and queries should be emailed to the Second Master’s PA, Mrs Sarah Cox using secondmaster@blundells.org as Mrs Cox maintains the travel record in accordance with the legal requirements of UK Visa and Immigration. All travel information is also passed to the pupils’ House Parents.

Pupils not using the school’s transport to return to school, may not arrive until 5:00pm as the boarding houses will not be open until this time. If this could be an issue, please contact their House Parent in advance of their return.

The transport is provided solely for the use of the pupils of Blundell’s School. For reasons of space and safeguarding, it is not possible to accommodate parents or guardians on the buses.

Departure from the UK

A coach service to Heathrow Airport will depart from the school on the morning of the final day of each first half of term and on the last day of term.

The coach leaves school at 7:30am and is scheduled to arrive at Heathrow Airport between 10:30am and 11:30am, depending on traffic conditions. We recommend that parents and guardians take this into consideration when booking tickets; flights that depart at 1:30pm or later are advisable.

The coach goes direct to the airport and does not stop on route. The charge for this service is built into the termly fee for international pupils.

Pupils are dropped off at Departures at Terminal 2 and make their own way to their check-in area or Terminal if not flying from Terminal 2. When pupils use the coach service to Heathrow Airport, the school’s legal responsibility for the pupils ends when they step off the coach.

The service must be booked in advance of departure and this is done through completion of the online form which is sent to parents and guardians a minimum of four weeks before the end of the half term/term.

Arrival in the UK

A collection service is provided on specified dates at the start of the Autumn Term, Spring Term and Summer Term plus at the start of the second half of each term.

The service operates from Heathrow Airport only and must be booked at least 10 days in advance of the specified date for the pupils’ return. Bookings will close at this time. Due to the popularity of the service, we cannot guarantee that there will be a place for everyone who would like one.

In the event of significant delays or missed connections, your child’s guardian will be expected to assist you in making alternative arrangements for your child to reach Blundell’s should the transport have to depart before they arrive - it is not the school’s responsibility to do so. Whilst we endeavour to avoid such a situation, in the event of lengthy delays it may be unavoidable.

When using the transport service from Heathrow Airport to Blundell’s, the school’s legal responsibility for pupils begins when they meet the staff escort at the coach departure point.

Please try to avoid booking flights that arrive within 1½ hours of the transport departure time as the transport cannot wait for more than a few minutes after its scheduled time to leave.

Departures are planned for 11:30am and 6:30pm.

Some pupils may have a relatively lengthy wait between their flight arrival and the coach’s departure. Should parents wish to book a taxi instead, we can provide a list of firms used by the school. Whilst these should not be taken as recommendations, these firms will supply drivers that have the required up to date authorisation from the Disclosure and Barring Service and are experienced in transporting unaccompanied children.

All pupils are expected to make their way to the departure point at Terminal 2. We are unable to collect pupils from other terminals due to the restrictions imposed by the airport on those collecting groups of passengers. Pupils will be accompanied on the transport by a member of school staff.

Full details of the collection procedure and departure of the minibuses will be emailed to pupils, parents and guardians at least one week before pupils are due to arrive.

What to do if there is a problem on the day

Should an issue arise on the day (a missed connection or delay, for example), pupils and/or parents should initially contact the staff member acting as the escort for the journey. The telephone number will be made available with the final information shortly beforehand. Other numbers that may prove useful will also be made available at this time.