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Welcome to Secondary School Handbook

Welcome to Secondary School Handbook updated 31st October 2023

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WELCOME TO<br />

SECONDARY SCHOOL


2<br />

HELLO<br />

WELCOME TO SECONDARY SCHOOL<br />

DCIS ACADEMIC YEAR 2024-2025<br />

Whether you are joining from our Primary <strong>School</strong>, from Singapore or from overseas,<br />

know that you will receive a very warm welcome here. We understand that starting<br />

a new school or stage of learning, and navigating a new campus, can be daunting.<br />

Res assured that you will be supported every step of the way and our fantastic<br />

students and staff are here <strong>to</strong> help you. Your progress in learning is of equal<br />

importance <strong>to</strong> your wellbeing, there will be a broad curriculum experience but also<br />

a great opportunity for you <strong>to</strong> develop your character and understand yourself.<br />

The first important step is meeting new people and being organised for learning. I encourage<br />

you <strong>to</strong> be open-minded <strong>to</strong> new experiences from your first day on campus, ask lots of<br />

questions and seize opportunities <strong>to</strong> get involved in all that DCIS has <strong>to</strong> offer you. Now is<br />

the time <strong>to</strong> try new things, join new activities, learn, or enhance your skills and unleash<br />

your creativity. Do share your past learning experiences, interests, and passions with your<br />

teachers so that they get <strong>to</strong> know you quickly and help you <strong>to</strong> thrive here. You will not be a<br />

new student for long and you are here because you have much <strong>to</strong> offer the community <strong>to</strong>o.<br />

We all strive <strong>to</strong> live and demonstrate the Dover Court values every day. We celebrate<br />

and nurture our diversity and we are proud <strong>to</strong> be a vibrant, fun and inclusive community.<br />

Everyone has a role <strong>to</strong> play in helping others <strong>to</strong> reach their goals and ambitions and<br />

above all <strong>to</strong> experience a strong sense of belonging throughout their time at DCIS.<br />

Together, if we all strive <strong>to</strong> be ‘better’, value everyone’s contribution and work <strong>to</strong>gether <strong>to</strong><br />

have the best learning experiences, then we are guaranteed a very exciting year ahead.<br />

We are all looking forward <strong>to</strong> meeting you.<br />

<strong>Welcome</strong> <strong>to</strong> DCIS <strong>Secondary</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />

Rachel Edwards<br />

Head of <strong>Secondary</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />

secondaryheadteacher@dovercourt.edu.sg


3<br />

Introduction by Mrs Edwards 2<br />

What You Need <strong>to</strong> Know Before You Get Here 4<br />

<strong>School</strong> Uniform 4<br />

Uniform Guidelines 4<br />

Stationery 4<br />

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) 5<br />

Device Requirements 5<br />

Student Responsible Use of ICT Agreement 5<br />

Timings of the <strong>School</strong> Day 6<br />

Lockers 6<br />

Getting <strong>to</strong> <strong>School</strong> 6<br />

Break Time and Lunch 6<br />

Important Information Once You’re Here 7<br />

Key Personnel 8<br />

Communications Flowchart 8<br />

Change Makers 8<br />

Attendance 8<br />

Behaviour 9<br />

Recognition and Praise 9<br />

Student Support Programme 9<br />

Targeted Academic Plans (TAPS) 9<br />

What You Will Study at <strong>School</strong> 10<br />

About Key Stage 3 – Years 7 and 8 10<br />

About Key Stage 4 – Years 9, 10 and 11 10<br />

About Key Stage 5 – Years 12 and 13 10<br />

Microsoft Teams and <strong>School</strong> Email 11<br />

How do you access your school email? 11<br />

How do you send an email? 11<br />

Student Portal 12<br />

What We Will Communicate With Your Parents 13<br />

Weekly Communications 13<br />

Parent Teacher Conferences 13<br />

Reports 13<br />

Parent Portal 13<br />

Breaks and Lunchtimes 14<br />

Top Tips from Students 15<br />

Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) 16<br />

Houses 16<br />

Sports 16<br />

Student Leadership 16<br />

Enrichment Clubs 17<br />

Trips and Residentials 17<br />

Questions and Answers 18<br />

Campus Plan 19<br />

Mission Statement 20


4<br />

WHAT YOU<br />

NEED TO<br />

KNOW<br />

BEFORE YOU<br />

GET HERE<br />

1<br />

SCHOOL UNIFORM<br />

The Dover Court school uniform is one<br />

of the ways of showing our identity<br />

and pride in our school. It is important<br />

that you wear your uniform properly<br />

and follow the uniform guidelines.<br />

STATIONERY<br />

In <strong>Secondary</strong> <strong>School</strong> we ask you<br />

<strong>to</strong> bring in your own pencil case<br />

containing the following:<br />

• Pens (blue/ black/purple)<br />

• Pencils<br />

• Eraser and pencil sharpener<br />

• 30cm ruler<br />

• Glue stick<br />

2<br />

• Scientific Calcula<strong>to</strong>r<br />

For Years 7-11, the recommended model is<br />

Casio fx - ES plus.<br />

For Years 12 and 13, the recommended<br />

models are Casio fx- 570ES PLUS,<br />

Casio fx-95ES PLUS, Casio fx 570 EX,<br />

Casio fx 82EX. This is required for<br />

all maths and science lessons.<br />

• Geometry set<br />

• Coloured pencil set<br />

UNIFORM GUIDELINES<br />

• Black shoes<br />

• Stud earrings and watch is allowed.<br />

• Coloured highlighters<br />

• Combination lock for<br />

<strong>Secondary</strong> <strong>School</strong> Lockers<br />

• Lap<strong>to</strong>p and a protective case<br />

• Jewellery must be kept <strong>to</strong> a<br />

minimum and be suitable<br />

for a school environment.<br />

• Long hair should be tied back for<br />

specific lessons such as Science.<br />

• Hair dye must be of a natural colour.<br />

• Subtle and neutral makeup<br />

is permitted.<br />

• The Sixth Form dress code<br />

will be shared with students<br />

entering Years 12 and 13.


5<br />

3<br />

BYOD<br />

We have a Bring Your Own Device<br />

(BYOD) policy in our <strong>Secondary</strong><br />

<strong>School</strong> (not applicable <strong>to</strong> students in<br />

Pathway 3) and as such we ask you <strong>to</strong><br />

bring in your own lap<strong>to</strong>p <strong>to</strong> school.<br />

4<br />

STUDENT RESPONSIBLE<br />

USE OF ICT AGREEMENT<br />

As a student at DCIS <strong>Secondary</strong><br />

<strong>School</strong>, you are required <strong>to</strong> follow<br />

our ICT Code of Conduct. You are<br />

expected <strong>to</strong> use any device, your own<br />

or the school’s, responsibly. If the Code<br />

of Conduct is breached, you may be<br />

removed as a user of IT at Dover Court.<br />

All students will be required <strong>to</strong> sign this as part of their<br />

student induction programme during their first few days.<br />

DEVICE REQUIREMENTS<br />

We would suggest the following device requirements as essential or desirable<br />

specifications for you and your parents <strong>to</strong> consider when choosing a device <strong>to</strong> bring <strong>to</strong><br />

school.<br />

Years 7 and 8 Years 9-13<br />

Type of Device<br />

Lap<strong>to</strong>p* (Windows or iOS)<br />

*preferred<br />

OR<br />

Tablet with a keyboard<br />

(Surface or iPad)<br />

During these school years, a<br />

keyboard is necessary <strong>to</strong> ensure<br />

an efficient ability <strong>to</strong> engage in<br />

learning across all subject areas.<br />

Lap<strong>to</strong>p (Windows or iOS)<br />

As students embark on their<br />

exam years, a lap<strong>to</strong>p is the best<br />

<strong>to</strong>ol <strong>to</strong> support their learning.<br />

Expectations for prolonged<br />

pieces of typed work increase<br />

during this time and a lap<strong>to</strong>p<br />

provides a more robust and<br />

comfortable experience.<br />

If you have used a tablet style<br />

device in Primary <strong>School</strong> this can<br />

be continued in these age groups,<br />

however it is expected that this<br />

is phased out by the beginning<br />

of Year 9 or if a new device needs<br />

<strong>to</strong> be purchased prior <strong>to</strong> this.<br />

NECESSARY<br />

Headphones/Earphones<br />

A protective case/bag/pouch<br />

Charger<br />

OPTIONAL<br />

Mouse<br />

NECESSARY<br />

Headphones/Earphones<br />

A protective case/bag/pouch<br />

Charger<br />

OPTIONAL<br />

Mouse<br />

Digital writing <strong>to</strong>ol (this could be<br />

used <strong>to</strong> support use of a tablet<br />

computer or <strong>to</strong>uchscreen lap<strong>to</strong>p)


6<br />

5<br />

TIMINGS OF THE SCHOOL DAY<br />

The school day starts with Form<br />

Time. You will meet with your<br />

Form Tu<strong>to</strong>r in the morning who<br />

will register you and ensure you<br />

are prepared for the day ahead.<br />

You then have two lessons before a 25-minute<br />

break where you might like <strong>to</strong> rest and/or eat. You<br />

will then have two more lessons before lunch. After<br />

lunch, there is one final lesson before any CCAs<br />

that you have signed up for. You may arrive at the<br />

school site from 8am onwards and gather in the<br />

Red Dot Restaurant only. The use of the field, sports<br />

hall or play equipment is not allowed at this time.<br />

A typical day looks like this:<br />

Time<br />

8.30am – 8.45am<br />

Activity<br />

Form Time<br />

8.45am – 9.45am Lesson 1<br />

9.45am – 10.45am Lesson 2<br />

10.45am – 11.10am<br />

Break<br />

11.10am – 12.10pm Lesson 3<br />

12.10pm – 1.10pm Lesson 4<br />

1.10pm – 2.00pm<br />

Lunch<br />

2.00pm – 3.00pm Lesson 5<br />

3.00pm - 4.00pm<br />

Lesson 6 (Sixth<br />

Form only)<br />

7<br />

GETTING TO SCHOOL<br />

We offer a school bus service<br />

for all students. We do, however,<br />

know that many students make<br />

their own way <strong>to</strong> and from school.<br />

These are the buses and MRTs that<br />

you can take <strong>to</strong> get <strong>to</strong> school:<br />

We are fortunate <strong>to</strong> live in a safe environment, but it<br />

is always useful <strong>to</strong> be cautious. If you are travelling<br />

<strong>to</strong> school by public transportation it is a good idea<br />

<strong>to</strong> make sure that you have contact information of<br />

all adults in your household written down, as well<br />

as on a mobile device. A parent’s business card put<br />

in one of the compartments of your school bag<br />

is a simple solution. If you have an EZ-link card,<br />

make sure that your parents have noted the CAN<br />

number that is printed on the back of the card.<br />

You are an ambassador for Dover Court when you are<br />

in your uniform outside of school. Please remember <strong>to</strong><br />

always be polite and demonstrate civic-mindedness.<br />

LOCKERS<br />

All <strong>Secondary</strong> students will be<br />

allocated a locker. You need<br />

<strong>to</strong> bring in your own padlock,<br />

we suggest using one with a<br />

combination rather than a key.<br />

You should only use the locker<br />

assigned <strong>to</strong> you and not allow<br />

anyone else <strong>to</strong> use your locker.<br />

You will be able <strong>to</strong> access your<br />

locker at the following times:<br />

Before school - 8.00am - 8.25am<br />

Break time - 10.45am - 11.10am<br />

Lunchtime - 1.10pm – 2.00pm<br />

After school - 3.00pm<br />

6<br />

BREAK TIME AND LUNCH<br />

Break time is 10.45am - 11.10am<br />

Lunch time is 1.10pm - 2.00pm and is split in<strong>to</strong><br />

eating times and social times as per below:<br />

Time Years 7 and 8 Year 9 <strong>to</strong> 13<br />

1.10pm - 1.35pm<br />

Eating time<br />

in Red Dot<br />

Restaurant<br />

Social time<br />

1.35pm - 2.00pm Social time Eating time in Red<br />

Dot Restaurant.<br />

Year 12 and 13<br />

students may eat in<br />

the Sixth Form<br />

Lounge Restaurant.<br />

8<br />

The Red Dot Restaurant will be open during both break time and<br />

lunch time for students who wish <strong>to</strong> purchase food and drinks.<br />

You can pay with an EZ Link card that can be purchased at MRT<br />

stations or 7Eleven, or a bank card. Your parents can also preorder<br />

lunch for you from our catering company, Mycellium.


7<br />

IMPORTANT INFORMATION<br />

ONCE YOU’RE HERE<br />

KEY PERSONNEL<br />

Form Tu<strong>to</strong>r<br />

Your Form Tu<strong>to</strong>r is your key teacher.<br />

You will meet your Form Tu<strong>to</strong>r<br />

every morning during form time.<br />

Pathway 2 Men<strong>to</strong>r<br />

Students who are in Pathway 2<br />

receive additional support and<br />

guidance from a Pathway 2 Men<strong>to</strong>r<br />

who will meet with you frequently.<br />

Progress Leader<br />

Your Progress Leader is responsible for<br />

the pas<strong>to</strong>ral care of your year group<br />

and is there <strong>to</strong> help and support you.<br />

COMMUNICATIONS FLOWCHART<br />

If you or your parents have any general<br />

questions you should talk <strong>to</strong> your Form<br />

Tu<strong>to</strong>r in the first instance, more serious<br />

pas<strong>to</strong>ral concerns or issues can be addressed<br />

<strong>to</strong> the year group Progress Leader.<br />

For questions regarding a specific<br />

subject you should talk <strong>to</strong> your Subject<br />

Teacher. If you feel that you need<br />

more information, you can contact the<br />

Subject Leader or Head of Faculty.<br />

If you still have concerns and need <strong>to</strong> speak<br />

<strong>to</strong> the Senior Leadership Team please<br />

contact the Deputy Head - Community, Ms<br />

Glazerman for pas<strong>to</strong>ral issues or the Deputy<br />

Head - Inclusion, Mr Burren for Pathway 2<br />

or 3. Please contact the Assistant Head,<br />

<strong>Secondary</strong>, Mr Goold or the Deputy Head<br />

- Learning, Mrs Hyland for any teaching<br />

or learning focused concerns and finally<br />

the Head of <strong>Secondary</strong>, Mrs Edwards.<br />

Ms Glazerman<br />

Deputy Head<br />

- Community<br />

Mr Burren<br />

Deputy Head<br />

- Inclusion<br />

Mr Goold<br />

Assistant Head,<br />

<strong>Secondary</strong><br />

Mrs Hyland<br />

Deputy Head<br />

- Learning<br />

Mrs Edwards<br />

Head of<br />

<strong>Secondary</strong>


8<br />

CHANGE MAKERS<br />

Every member of our community has the opportunity<br />

<strong>to</strong> create change both within and beyond our<br />

school, with social impact as the overarching<br />

focus for student leadership in the school.<br />

Being a student leader is a privilege and teaches<br />

important lessons regarding leadership, planning,<br />

communication and responsibility. All students can<br />

apply <strong>to</strong> join one of our student leadership committees<br />

linked <strong>to</strong> an area of their interest. Applications will<br />

be reviewed by the executive committee and staff<br />

liaisons, who will decide on the placements.<br />

Our Head Students are elected from our Year 12<br />

cohort and our Deputy Head Students are elected<br />

from our Year 10 cohort. These students are<br />

responsible for representing our student body and<br />

leading our student council and committees. The<br />

Student Council submits projects and proposals<br />

<strong>to</strong> the school leadership and has scope <strong>to</strong> submit<br />

projects, charity proposals and events that<br />

represent the wide interests of our students.<br />

ATTENDANCE<br />

In order <strong>to</strong> ensure that you make the best progress<br />

possible we need you in school. We want all students<br />

<strong>to</strong> aim for a minimum 95% attendance. Should<br />

your attendance fall below 90% or show a pattern<br />

of concern we will contact your parents. We may<br />

also contact your parents if we notice a pattern of<br />

lateness <strong>to</strong> school. Although we understand that<br />

there may be a good reason why your attendance has<br />

fallen below the recommended level in a particular<br />

term, we will still follow up with you. You should<br />

be in your Form Room by 8:30am every morning.<br />

Should you arrive between 8:30 and 8:44am your<br />

tu<strong>to</strong>r will mark you late on the register. If you arrive<br />

at school after 8:45am you must report <strong>to</strong> the <strong>School</strong><br />

Reception <strong>to</strong> collect a Late Slip <strong>to</strong> bring <strong>to</strong> class.


9<br />

BEHAVIOUR<br />

We strive <strong>to</strong> create a warm and welcoming<br />

community where children and young people<br />

feel safe, respected and a sense of belonging.<br />

We recognise that wellbeing and positive<br />

relationships underpin academic progress, and<br />

that every student here at DCIS is capable of<br />

achieving excellence in its many and varied forms.<br />

We have three simple expectations<br />

of students in <strong>Secondary</strong>;<br />

1. Be Ready – on time, in uniform,<br />

with equipment, ready <strong>to</strong> engage<br />

positively with learning<br />

2. Be Respectful – act with kindness,<br />

consideration and integrity across<br />

our diverse community; take care of<br />

personal and school property,<br />

3. Be Safe – follow instructions from<br />

staff and ensure our actions keep<br />

ourselves and others safe from physical<br />

and/or psychological harm.<br />

We understand that sometimes, young people<br />

make mistakes. Our res<strong>to</strong>rative approach<br />

aims <strong>to</strong> identify the cause of behaviour and<br />

how it has impacted the community. Learning<br />

conversations are held regularly, with a focus<br />

on repairing relationships and clarifying<br />

expectations. In such situations, we seek <strong>to</strong><br />

understand the cause of behaviour, before<br />

deciding on appropriate actions or responses.<br />

Our younger students will look up <strong>to</strong> you<br />

and we need you <strong>to</strong> set a good example.<br />

TARGETED ACADEMIC PLANS (TAPS)<br />

Following our termly report cycle some<br />

students may be identified as benefiting from<br />

additional support in order <strong>to</strong> meet their full<br />

potential. Students will be set very focussed<br />

short term targets by their subject teachers and<br />

will meet with the progress leaders <strong>to</strong> discuss<br />

these targets and reflect on their progress..<br />

RECOGNITION AND PRAISE<br />

Students receive recognition for positive<br />

behaviour choices, effort, progress and<br />

the demonstration of our school values.<br />

Day-<strong>to</strong>-day praise may include:<br />

• Thanking students for positive<br />

behaviour choices e.g.<br />

“Thank you ___ for being ready <strong>to</strong><br />

listen”; “Thank you ___ for looking<br />

this way”; “I like the way this group<br />

is collaborating on their learning”<br />

• Having work shared and highlighted<br />

• Awarding housepoints<br />

• Communication home via<br />

phone call or email<br />

• Receiving a mention in the<br />

school newsletter or on the<br />

school’s social media feeds<br />

• Receiving a mention in assembly<br />

• Being presented with a praise postcard<br />

from SSLT on ‘Recognition Friday’<br />

At the end of each term, we hold<br />

celebration assemblies where we recognise<br />

the achievements and successes of<br />

students across the school. Subject<br />

awards are given, we recognise students<br />

who have clearly demonstrated our<br />

school values and we share the results<br />

of our termly House competitions.<br />

We hold an annual Sports Awards evening,<br />

<strong>to</strong> celebrate the successes of our Dover<br />

Court Wolves teams and players. In addition,<br />

we hold an annual Prize Giving ceremony in<br />

which students are awarded prizes, ranging<br />

from Outstanding Academic Achievement,<br />

<strong>to</strong> Social Impact and Trailblazer awards.


10<br />

WHAT YOU WILL<br />

STUDY AT SCHOOL<br />

KEY STAGE 3 - YEARS 7 AND 8<br />

In Key Stage 3, you will deepen your understanding<br />

of the core and foundation subjects in preparation<br />

for Key Stage 4 (Years 9, 10 and 11), where you will<br />

focus on fewer, selected subjects and work <strong>to</strong>wards<br />

your GCSE/iGCSE, ASDAN or BTEC qualifications.<br />

Core Subjects:<br />

English, Mathematics and Science<br />

Foundation:<br />

Geography, His<strong>to</strong>ry, Visual Arts, Design and<br />

Technology, ICT, Drama, Music, PE, and either<br />

French, Mandarin, EAL or Literacy Skills<br />

KEY STAGE 4 - YEARS 9, 10 AND 11<br />

In Key Stage 4, you will focus on fewer selected subjects<br />

and work <strong>to</strong>wards your range of external qualifications.<br />

All students must study the ‘core’ subjects and then<br />

choose an additional four ‘option’ subjects.<br />

Core Subjects:<br />

English, Mathematics and Science<br />

Example Option Subjects:<br />

Geography, His<strong>to</strong>ry, Global Citizenship, Psychology,<br />

Business Studies, Computer Science, Fine Art, Drama,<br />

Design and Technology, Music, BTEC Business Level 1,<br />

BTEC IT Level 2, ASDAN, Spanish, French, Mandarin<br />

KEY STAGE 5 – THE SIXTH FORM - YEARS 12 AND 13<br />

In Key Stage 5, we have two routes of study. Students will either work <strong>to</strong>wards the IB Diploma or IB Courses<br />

qualifications, or take a more vocational pathway and complete the BTEC Level 2 or 3 qualification in Business.<br />

The IB Diploma consists of 6 subject areas and the 3 core elements - TOK (Theory of Knowledge), EE (Extended Essay) and<br />

CAS (Creativity, Activity and Service). The IB Courses route involves doing a minimum of 4 subject areas and flexibility over<br />

the core elements. Students are expected <strong>to</strong> be on site full time and have some study periods built in<strong>to</strong> their timetable.<br />

IB students also have an extended day and may have a Lesson 6 on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 3.00pm -<br />

4.00pm. All Sixth Form students will take part in CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) on a Monday from 3.00-4.00pm.<br />

In <strong>Secondary</strong>, we use a two-week timetable. This means that lessons on Monday Week 1 will be different<br />

<strong>to</strong> lessons on Monday Week 2, and likewise throughout the rest of the week. Each term starts with<br />

Week 1. If you check your timetable on the Student Portal, it will always show the correct week.<br />

Example Timetable, Key Stage 3 - Years 7 and 8<br />

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday<br />

8.30am Form Time Form Time Form Time Form Time Form Time<br />

L1<br />

8.45am<br />

ICT<br />

Subject teacher<br />

B Block<br />

Science<br />

Subject teacher<br />

A Block<br />

P.E.<br />

Subject teacher<br />

Sports Hall<br />

P.E.<br />

Subject teacher<br />

B Block<br />

PSHE<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

L2<br />

9.45am<br />

English<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Mandarin<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

English<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Maths<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Design and Technology<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

L3<br />

11.10am<br />

Science<br />

Subject teacher<br />

A Block<br />

Art<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Mandarin<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

Geography<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

His<strong>to</strong>ry<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

L4<br />

12.10pm<br />

Maths<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Maths<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Maths<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

English<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

English<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

L5<br />

2.00pm<br />

Mandarin<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

Drama<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Science<br />

Subject teacher<br />

A Block<br />

His<strong>to</strong>ry<br />

Subject teacher<br />

C Block<br />

Music<br />

Subject teacher<br />

S Block<br />

Having different teachers means that you have <strong>to</strong> move <strong>to</strong> different classrooms and even buildings<br />

in between lessons. We expect you <strong>to</strong> do this quietly, sensibly and quickly.


MICROSOFT TEAMS AND<br />

SCHOOL EMAIL<br />

You will be using Microsoft Teams in<br />

most subjects. Microsoft Teams is a<br />

platform where your teacher can share<br />

homework and help sheets, you will be<br />

able <strong>to</strong> ask your teacher questions and<br />

you can hand in your homework here.<br />

You will be given a code <strong>to</strong> each subject’s<br />

classroom at the start of the term.<br />

You will also have your own Dover Court<br />

email address and need this <strong>to</strong> log<br />

in<strong>to</strong> Microsoft Teams. Your form tu<strong>to</strong>r<br />

will give you your email address and<br />

password. It is important that you check<br />

your school email regularly as we send<br />

notices and letters directly <strong>to</strong> students<br />

through this. We encourage you <strong>to</strong><br />

email your teachers from your school<br />

email address if you have questions.<br />

HOW DO YOU ACCESS YOUR SCHOOL EMAIL?<br />

HOW DO YOU SEND AN EMAIL?


12<br />

STUDENT PORTAL<br />

You can also find important information on the Student Portal. This can be accessed by<br />

logging in, via the Link and QR code below, using your email address and password.<br />

https://bit.ly/dcisstudentportal<br />

https://pupils-dcs-isams.nordanglia.com/api/homepage/<br />

Once you have logged in, you will be directed <strong>to</strong> useful links like your email accounts, GCSEPod<br />

(Year 9 <strong>to</strong> 11) and Dr Frost in mathematics. You will also be able <strong>to</strong> find your timetable,<br />

new bulletin notices, a list of your teachers and classes, and your school reports.


13<br />

HOW WE COMMUNICATE<br />

WITH YOUR PARENTS<br />

Weekly Communications<br />

Your parents will receive weekly updates from the school. These will let<br />

them know what’s going on in school including any special events<br />

coming up. It also contains useful links and resources.<br />

Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences (PSTCs)<br />

At DCIS, your educational journey is a collaborative effort. In line with<br />

our updated mission and values, we have evolved our approach <strong>to</strong><br />

Parent-Teacher Conferences in<strong>to</strong> Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences<br />

(PSTCs). With inclusion at its heart, our community aims <strong>to</strong> ensure that<br />

you are an active participant in these dialogues, aligning with our values<br />

of excellence, diversity, integrity, resilience, creativity, and kindness.<br />

Reports<br />

Your parents will receive three updates on your progress during the year.<br />

These are issued at the end of each term (Year 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12) <strong>to</strong> inform<br />

you and your parents of your specific progress and contain data and<br />

other measurable fac<strong>to</strong>rs such as ‘attitude for learning’ as well as<br />

personalised ‘what went well’ and ‘even better if’ targets. The timings<br />

for Year 11 and 13 alter slightly <strong>to</strong> fit around mock exams, but parents will<br />

also receive three updates on progress each year.<br />

Parent Portal<br />

Your Progress Reports will be published on the Parent Portal and on the<br />

Student Portal. Your parents will also be able <strong>to</strong> see your Rewards and<br />

Detentions there.


14<br />

BREAKS AND<br />

LUNCHTIMES<br />

The Red Dot Restaurant is open during break and lunchtimes. You can choose from a wide selection of different hot and<br />

cold foods and pay using your EZ link card or a bank card. All food brought in from home must be nut free as there are students<br />

in school with severe nut allergies. If you forget your packed lunch or lunch money, speak <strong>to</strong> your Tu<strong>to</strong>r or Progress<br />

Leader.<br />

There are plenty of activities <strong>to</strong> take part in during your free time at lunch, from football or handball on the field, band<br />

practice, clubs run by teachers in their classrooms <strong>to</strong> giant chess and table tennis competitions taking place just outside<br />

the Red Dot Restaurant.<br />

Students (and sometimes staff!) often perform music in the T Block during lunchtimes. Speak <strong>to</strong> the Direc<strong>to</strong>r of Music if<br />

you would like <strong>to</strong> perform.<br />

We ask that you do not have your lap<strong>to</strong>p out in the Red Dot Restaurant, except for students in Years 11, 12 and 13.


15<br />

TOP TIPS FROM STUDENTS<br />

“My tip is <strong>to</strong> find people who like the same things as you like. If you like<br />

art find people who like art. If you like PE or sports in general, find people<br />

that like sport. And if you like drama, find somebody who likes drama.<br />

And if it’s your first day try <strong>to</strong> remember your classes, but don’t<br />

stress if you get a class wrong. It’s a lot different <strong>to</strong> primary <strong>to</strong> work<br />

out how <strong>to</strong> get around at first. But you’ll figure it out in no time.”<br />

Sydney, Year 7<br />

“I’ve been at Dover Court since Nursery, so this school is very much<br />

home <strong>to</strong> me, and <strong>Secondary</strong> will soon feel like home <strong>to</strong> you, <strong>to</strong>o.<br />

My <strong>to</strong>p tip is <strong>to</strong> be open <strong>to</strong> trying new things. There are so many<br />

things going on, including sports, music, art, and lunchtime<br />

clubs. Joining an activity or a team is a great way <strong>to</strong> meet new<br />

people. All the teachers in <strong>Secondary</strong> are really kind and helpful,<br />

so if you’re ever worried about anything, just talk <strong>to</strong> them!”<br />

Shanay, Year 9<br />

“On the way <strong>to</strong> school on the first day, I was extremely worried about<br />

making friends and if I did make any, being able <strong>to</strong> remember everyone’s<br />

names. When I got here, I realised that even if I didn’t immediately<br />

make close friends, people would always be friendly and kind, and<br />

eventually I managed <strong>to</strong> make some very close friends. My biggest<br />

piece of advice is <strong>to</strong> be yourself. There’s no point in caring about<br />

how other people might think of you because there will always be<br />

someone who understands you. Try <strong>to</strong> speak <strong>to</strong> people, even if you’re<br />

shy, sometimes just giving someone a smile or a simple greeting each<br />

day could lead <strong>to</strong> getting <strong>to</strong> know them better. Another piece of advice<br />

I have is <strong>to</strong> get <strong>to</strong> know your teachers because although you may<br />

think they don’t understand how you feel, most of them have been<br />

in your shoes at some point in their lives. If you feel like a part of your<br />

school life is getting <strong>to</strong>o challenging or something is bothering you,<br />

speak <strong>to</strong> someone, it helps. My final piece of advice is <strong>to</strong> speak <strong>to</strong> as<br />

many different people as you can/feel comfortable with. What I mean<br />

by this is, try <strong>to</strong> have at least one person in each class that you can<br />

get along with, know well enough <strong>to</strong> work with, and feel comfortable<br />

around, otherwise it will be difficult <strong>to</strong> feel fully settled in all classes.”<br />

Florence, Year 10


16<br />

CO-CURRICULAR<br />

ACTIVITIES<br />

(CCAS)<br />

Learning at Dover Court International <strong>School</strong><br />

goes beyond the classroom. Our co-curricular<br />

programme spans leadership opportunities,<br />

sports, service learning, trips and much more.<br />

HOUSES<br />

As part of one of four DCIS Houses:<br />

Jurong, Kranji, New<strong>to</strong>n and Ubin,<br />

you will be competing for your<br />

House during special Enrichment<br />

Days and House Events. You can<br />

also earn House points in lessons.<br />

STUDENT LEADERSHIP<br />

In the <strong>Secondary</strong> <strong>School</strong>, we appoint<br />

two Head Students from Year 12<br />

and two Deputy Head Students<br />

from Year 10, who lead the Student<br />

Council and work closely with the<br />

school’s leadership team. There<br />

are also a number of student<br />

leadership committees, who<br />

focus on areas of importance such<br />

diversity, social impact, inclusion and<br />

sustainability. There are fantastic<br />

leadership opportunities and<br />

chances <strong>to</strong> really amplify student<br />

voice, across all year groups.<br />

SPORTS<br />

Students have the opportunity<br />

<strong>to</strong> be part of a wide range of<br />

sporting teams, including<br />

football, rugby, cross-country,<br />

basketball, swimming and<br />

netball. We compete in the<br />

ACSIS (Athletics Conference<br />

of Singapore International<br />

<strong>School</strong>s), FOBISIA, and run<br />

several U13, U15 and U18 teams..<br />

There will be many opportunities<br />

<strong>to</strong> get involved in sports<br />

competitions, within school<br />

and against other schools. Such<br />

opportunities will be shared<br />

by our PE department at the<br />

start of the academic year.<br />

There will also be several<br />

chances throughout the year<br />

<strong>to</strong> represent your house in<br />

sports house <strong>to</strong>urnaments.<br />

We are also always looking for<br />

new talented swimmers <strong>to</strong> join<br />

our swim team. Please let your PE<br />

teachers know of your sporting<br />

interests and always keep an eye<br />

out for notices for team trials.


17<br />

ENRICHMENT CLUBS<br />

As well as sporting activities, there are<br />

always a whole host of other enrichment<br />

opportunities available as part of our CCA<br />

(co-curricular) programme. Lovers of all<br />

things literary can join a book club, creative<br />

talents can be unleashed in a variety of<br />

different arts-based clubs, and those who<br />

want further intellectual challenges can be<br />

part of subject specific enrichment groups.<br />

CCA sign up is completed by your parents at<br />

the start of each term via our online platform.<br />

TRIPS AND EXPEDITIONS<br />

You can expect <strong>to</strong> enjoy trips and excursions<br />

in Singapore, and potentially abroad, as part<br />

of your learning within your subjects. You<br />

will also enjoy year group trips, activities and<br />

team building <strong>to</strong> help you get <strong>to</strong> know your<br />

year group peers and your teachers. Such trips<br />

and events will provide you with a fantastic<br />

opportunity <strong>to</strong> build relationships across the year<br />

group, learn new skills and make memories.<br />

Trips you might participate in could be subject<br />

department excursions, sporting events,<br />

musical trips and STEAM events. You may also<br />

be able <strong>to</strong> participate in other Nord Anglia<br />

Education regional events, or FOBISIA network<br />

of schools in Southeast Asia. In addition,<br />

there will be many virtual events you can<br />

participate in through the Global Campus.


18<br />

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS<br />

1. What if my bus is late?<br />

If your school bus arrives late you will be given<br />

a blue ‘Late Slip’ <strong>to</strong> give <strong>to</strong> your teacher if you<br />

arrive after 8.40am. This means you will be<br />

added <strong>to</strong> the register. You won’t be in trouble!<br />

8. Can we decorate the inside of our lockers?<br />

No – we do ask that there is no internal or external<br />

decoration of lockers. You can stick a copy of your<br />

timetable inside your locker with blu tac, but that is all.<br />

2. Will I have extra support, if I need it?<br />

If your teachers think you are struggling in any<br />

subjects, they may recommend you have some<br />

additional learning support. This will be put in<br />

place after discussions with you and your parents.<br />

For social-emotional support, there are several<br />

people who can help, including your Form<br />

Tu<strong>to</strong>r, Progress Leader or <strong>School</strong> Counsellor.<br />

3. How will I make friends?<br />

There will be other new students joining the year<br />

group who are also keen <strong>to</strong> make new friends. At<br />

the start of the new year, there will be an induction<br />

programme designed <strong>to</strong> help promote building<br />

positive relationships with your new classmates.<br />

4. Will I get a buddy?<br />

Your Form Tu<strong>to</strong>r will choose a buddy for you from<br />

your form class, who will be familiar with the school<br />

and will help you <strong>to</strong> settle in during the first weeks<br />

and find your way around. A team of Student<br />

Ambassadors will also welcome all new students<br />

with a welcome party, during the first week of term.<br />

5. Is there more pressure/stress for me?<br />

None that you should worry about! Yes, it is a new<br />

environment with new teachers and subjects, yes,<br />

there will slowly be more work, but you are also<br />

going <strong>to</strong> become more mature and develop the skills<br />

required <strong>to</strong> cope with this. We are here <strong>to</strong> support<br />

you all the way as long as you are open and honest<br />

with us about when you are finding things difficult.<br />

6. Will I get a locker?<br />

Yes, you will be allocated a locker. Please<br />

speak <strong>to</strong> your Form Tu<strong>to</strong>r.<br />

7. Do I need a hat at break and lunchtime?<br />

We always recommend that students wear<br />

a hat for sun safety, but we won’t chase you<br />

around for it. We expect you <strong>to</strong> be mature<br />

enough <strong>to</strong> make the right decision.<br />

9. Do we have a library slot?<br />

You can visit the library before school, during<br />

break time and lunchtime and after-school.<br />

10. What if I’m sick on an assessment day?<br />

For internal assessments, we will always do our best <strong>to</strong><br />

reschedule if you are unwell. For external exams (GCSE<br />

and IB exams in Year 11 and Year 13) there is a formal<br />

process which does include needing a medical certificate,<br />

but you do not need <strong>to</strong> worry about this, just yet.<br />

11. How often do we have assessments/tests?<br />

At DCIS, assessment is a crucial part of your learning journey,<br />

designed <strong>to</strong> help you develop a growth mindset, promote<br />

continuous improvement, and become a lifelong learner. Our<br />

inclusive and dynamic approach ensures that every student<br />

can thrive, reflecting our commitment <strong>to</strong> excellence, diversity,<br />

integrity, resilience, creativity, and kindness. By providing<br />

timely feedback, encouraging self-reflection, and using fair and<br />

meaningful assessment methods, we empower you <strong>to</strong> actively<br />

engage in your learning and flourish in a globally connected world.<br />

We believe in a comprehensive approach <strong>to</strong> assessments. Instead<br />

of having fixed assessment weeks at the end of each academic<br />

year, we continuously collect assessment data during lessons<br />

and conduct detailed analyses every half-term at both the faculty<br />

and year group levels. This thorough and ongoing assessment<br />

process is part of our responsive teaching practices, ensuring<br />

that we are always aware of your learning needs. We are ready<br />

<strong>to</strong> enhance your learning experience and promptly address any<br />

emerging needs, providing reassurance <strong>to</strong> both you and your<br />

parents that we are dedicated <strong>to</strong> your educational success.<br />

12. How do exams work? Do we have them<br />

in the classrooms or the hall?<br />

Up until Year 11, they will all be in classrooms.<br />

13. Will we have a <strong>to</strong>ur of the <strong>Secondary</strong> block?<br />

Of course! During the induction programme there will<br />

be an opportunity <strong>to</strong> <strong>to</strong>ur the <strong>Secondary</strong> building and<br />

become orientated with the new procedures in place.<br />

14. What will I study?<br />

All subject curriculum maps are published on the parent portal<br />

and school website at the start of the new academic year.


19


20<br />

MISSION<br />

STATEMENT<br />

WHO WE ARE<br />

Dover Court International <strong>School</strong> is a<br />

community with inclusion at its heart.<br />

WHAT WE STRIVE FOR<br />

We prepare students <strong>to</strong> flourish in our dynamic<br />

world, <strong>to</strong> be active participants in a globally<br />

connected community, now and throughout life.<br />

HOW WE DO THIS<br />

We aspire <strong>to</strong> excellence in learning, pursuing<br />

meaningful experiences through purposeful<br />

inquiry, rigour, reflection and perseverance.<br />

We embrace diversity; our individuality<br />

is defined through our differences and<br />

<strong>to</strong>gether we can achieve more.<br />

We act with integrity, developing core<br />

values as a guide for action.<br />

We foster resilience, facing the future with<br />

confidence and resourcefulness.<br />

We promote kindness, considering the impact<br />

of our actions on others and on our world.<br />

We cultivate creativity, encouraging joy, curiosity,<br />

imagination, play, innovation and reflection.


21<br />

THE DOVER VALUES<br />

We aspire <strong>to</strong> excellence<br />

We embrace diversity<br />

We act with integrity<br />

We foster<br />

resilience<br />

We cultivate creativity<br />

We promote kindness


Contact us at:<br />

Dover Court International <strong>School</strong><br />

301 Dover Road, Singapore 139644<br />

Admissions<br />

admissions@dovercourt.edu.sg<br />

www.dovercourt.edu.sg<br />

+65 6775 7664<br />

<strong>School</strong> Hours: 8.30am-3.00pm<br />

Office Hours: 7.45am-5.00pm<br />

Dover Court International <strong>School</strong> (Pte) Ltd is registered<br />

with the Committee for Private Education<br />

CPE Registration No: 197100313E | Registration Period: 05/07/2023 <strong>to</strong> 04/07/2027<br />

The Committee for Private Education (CPE) is an agency under the SkillsFuture<br />

Singapore (SSG)

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