International Students
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Barnardiston Hall welcomes International Students and understands that for them, and their parents, this is a very big step.
The Headmaster, Mr Gavin Sinnott, boarded himself in another country as a child and has, therefore, first-hand experience of living in another country and the concerns that this may bring. The care and happiness of your children is of paramount importance to us and we will do everything we can to ensure they settle quickly and happily into our School regime.
Upon arrival, your child will be teamed up with a ‘buddy’ from their class and they will take time to introduce your child to the other members of the Year-Group. This ‘buddy’ will remain with your child until they are settled into the School and have made friends with both the day children and other members of the Boarding House.
There can be some homesickness at the beginning which is very normal and should be expected. However, this generally only lasts a few days and we ask that, during this time, you remain very ‘positive’ when you speak to your child and encourage them to tell you about all the things that they are enjoying in School (and not focus on the fact that they are missing you). Parents who follow this find that their children settle in very quickly. However, if you have any concerns about your child, at any time, please do feel free to contact the Headmaster who will be able to advise and reassure you.
For students arriving from overseas who have not purchased their uniform on-line, our Matron will take them to the School Outfitters to kit them out with everything they require. They will also ensure that any items purchased by the School are clearly named with name-tapes.
Parents often worry about what happens if their child feels unwell; we can reassure you that we will take very good care them! We have several very experienced first-aiders in the School who can help in the case of cuts, bruises or general sickness. If more specialist help is required, our local GP can advise and in the case of an emergency, we have an excellent hospital nearby.
In the case of a minor illness such as a headache, cold or sore throat, we will not automatically phone to advise you although we will encourage your child to let you know when they next speak to you. However, for anything more serious, the School will contact you immediately, either via phone or email, giving you full information and passing on a report from the doctor or hospital as appropriate.
All children like to bring pocket money with them for spending on treats and souvenirs when they go shopping at weekends. The School runs a Pocket Money system and all children are required to deposit their money into this, withdrawing small amounts as needed. The School cannot be held responsible for any money which a child does not hand in which is subsequently lost.
Upon arrival at School, passports and BRPs are taken by the School Registrar and are kept in a safe until they are required for a journey home.
We aim to ensure that all our children at Barnardiston Hall have the very best time possible with us. Therefore, please speak to us if you have any concerns – we are here to support and help you as well as your child.
