2013 Rogers Boarding Handbook - The Southport School

Rogers Boarding Handbook 2013 

R

The Southport School 

Rogers Boarding Handbook 2013

2 The Southport School Rogers Boarding Handbook 2013 

Table of Contents 

Headmaster’s Welcome ..................................................... 3 

Welcome to Boarding......................................................... 3 

Rogers House 2013 ............................................................ 3 

Rogers House Contact Information ................................. 4 

Postal Address .............................................................. 4 

Phone Numbers .......................................................... 4 

Housemaster ............................................................... 4 

Assistant Housemaster ................................................ 4 

Matron ......................................................................... 4 

Rogers Numbers ......................................................... 4 

Other Useful Numbers .............................................. 4 

Boarding House Contacts ................................................. 5 

Biddle House .............................................................. 5 

Delpratt House ........................................................... 5 

McKinley House ......................................................... 5 

Thorold House ............................................................ 5 

Rogers House .............................................................. 5 

Quick Contact Numbers................................................... 6 

Preparatory School ...................................................... 6 

Senior School .............................................................. 6 

About TSS .......................................................................... 7 

Life in Rogers ..................................................................... 8 

Daily Routines ............................................................. 8 

Monday to Friday – Mornings ................................... 8 

Monday to Thursday - Evenings ................................ 8 

Friday ........................................................................... 9 

Saturday ....................................................................... 9 

Sunday ......................................................................... 9 

Friendship ......................................................................... 10 

Demeanour – Manners ................................................... 10 

Leave Arrangements ......................................................... 10 

Electronic Leave ........................................................ 10 

Communication ............................................................... 12 

Telephone .................................................................. 12 

Keeping Up With Events (Rogers House Web Site) 12 

E-mail ........................................................................ 13 

Drop Box/Survey....................................................... 13 

The Boarding Parent Support Group ...................... 13 

Prep (Homework) and the Evening Session .................. 14 

Musical Instruments ........................................................ 14 

Personal Laptops/iPads for Students ............................... 15 

Pocket Money .................................................................. 15 

Occasional boarders .................................................. 15 

Medical Matters ............................................................... 15 

Security ............................................................................. 16 

Food .................................................................................. 16 

Recreational & Electronic Equipment ............................ 16 

Hygiene ............................................................................ 17 

Management of Personal Space ....................................... 17 

Clothing ..................................................................... 17 

Name tags .................................................................. 17 

Waterproofing ............................................................ 17 

Footwear .................................................................... 17 

Rogers House Discipline Policy ...................................... 19 

House Rules .............................................................. 19 

Security in-House ..................................................... 19 

The Senior School Day ................................................... 20

Headmaster’s Welcome 

The Southport School Rogers Boarding Handbook 2013 3 

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you into the Boarding community of The Southport School. I 

look forward to meeting you personally if I have not already done so. 

You have joined a great School with an enviable history and strong traditions which stretch back to the 

beginning of the last century. The hard work done by generations of previous Old Southportonians 

in building the tone and reputation of the School is their gift to you. I know you will rise to the 

challenge on maintaining and enhancing that reputation, which you in turn will pass onto those boys 

who will come after you. 

I wish you well in this new and exciting direction of your life. 

Mr Greg Wain 

Headmaster 

Welcome to Boarding 

Dear Parents and Guardians 

We are extremely proud to say that Boarding life has always been an integral feature of this School 

since the first boarders arrived in 1909 into Thorold, McKinley and Delpratt Houses. The boarders 

bring to TSS particular personal qualities and give the School a soul, a life and sense of community. 

We have prepared this booklet to assist you and your son in knowing more about the practices of 

Boarding here at The Southport School. 

In this booklet you will find information concerning leave arrangements, communication with 

Boarding personnel, daily timetables for all Houses, clothing lists and general Boarding matters. 

We hope that it will be a handy reference for you in understanding the care we provide and the 

opportunities that exist for your son. 

One of the most positive aspects of Boarding is the pride the boys have in their community. I 

encourage your son to take advantage of the opportunities that exist at the School and in the Boarding 

community. By doing so, he will quickly feel part of an extended “family”. 

Daniel Brown 

Dean of Boarding 

Rogers House 2013 

To new boys and their parents, welcome to Rogers House for the 2013 school year and welcome back 

to those returning. You will find all the relevant details in the boarding booklet, but please do give Rob 

Wehl or I a call if you have any questions. Meanwhile, what I need from you prior to your arrival are 

the following: 

• The 2013 medical form with all up to date details. 

• The list of Approved Visitors and Leave Arrangements. 

• Current address and all contact numbers, email etc 

• Concerned mothers form 

This year we aim to have at least one major excursion every term but we will continue with our policy 

of doing as many activities on weekends as possible – shopping trips to the many malls and markets on 

the coast, beach outings, rain forest walks etc. 

The new school year for Rogers’ House boys begins on Tuesday 29 January. There will be an 

orientation for all new boys starting at Rogers House at 3.00pm. This Rogers orientation will include 

meeting the Housemaster, the Assistant Housemaster and other residential staff; A presentation 

about Rogers House and what the boys should expect; The web site and how to get the most out of 

it; and time for questions. If you have any concerns with these arrangements, due to flights or other 

difficulties, simply give me a call and I will try to assist.


My staff, family and I sincerely hope your son has a wonderful year and we look forward to helping him achieve 

his aims and objectives in 2013. 

Ian Browne 

Rogers Housemaster 

Rogers House Contact Information 

Postal Address 


2 Winchester Street 

SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 

Phone Numbers 

Housemaster 

House Phones (for incoming calls only) 0011 61 (07) 5531 9820 

Ian & Carlene Browne 

Home (07) 55319941 

Fax (07) 5531 9908 

Mobile 0414 319 915 

E-mail ian.browne@tss.qld.edu.au 

Assistant Housemaster 

Matron 

Rob & Jasmine Wehl 

Home (07) 5531 9886 

Mobile 0404 802586 

E-mail Rob.Wehl@tss.qld.edu.au 

Judy Cronk 

Monday – Friday (split shift) 6.30 – 9.30am & 3.30 – 6.00pm 

Work (07) 5531 9820 

Mobile (Monday – Friday) 0416 274 129 

Rogers Numbers 

Master on Duty (Friday 5.15pm – Sunday 9pm) 0416 274 129 

Resident Master Nick Noye 07 5531 9820 

Resident Master Sharon Joss 07 5531 9820 

Resident Master TBC 07 5531 9820 

Junior Resident Master Gerrard Manion 07 5531 9820 

Other Useful Numbers 

Health Centre TSS Nursing Sisters 07 5531 9927 

TSS Store Les Gray 07 5531 9823 

TSS Sport Wet Weather Cancellation 07 5531 9860

Boarding House Contacts 

Biddle House 

Delpratt House 

Housemaster Mr Graham Swinton 

Assistant Housemaster Mrs Julie Watson-Hayward 

Telephone 07 5531 9947 

Fax 07 5531 9972 

Email graham.swinton@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colour Red, Green & Gold 

Emblem Biddle Lion 

Motto “Viriliter Agite” - (Act Manfully) 

Housemaster Mr Karel Bos 

Assistant Housemaster Mr Ken Connors 

Telephone 07 5531 9904 

Fax 07 5531 9976 

Email karel.bos@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colours Royal Blue & White 

Emblem Gryphon’s Head 

Motto “Tasche Sans Tache” (Honour without Blemish) 

McKinley House 

Thorold House 

Rogers House 

Housemaster Mr Tony Watt 

Assistant Housemaster Mrs Eleanor Mackie 

Telephone 07 5531 9903 

Fax 07 5531 9974 

Email tony.watt@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colours Maroon & White 

Emblem A Lion Rampant 

Motto “Peraget Angusta ad Augusta” 

(Through narrow straits to victory) 

Housemaster Mr Daniel Brown 

Assistant Housemaster Mr Adrian Blundell 

Telephone 07 5531 9906 

Fax 5531 9975 

Email daniel.brown@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colours Gold & Black 

Emblem Stag 

Motto “Devant si je Puis” (To the fore if I am able) 

Housemaster Mr Ian Browne 

Assistant Housemaster Mr Rob Wehl 

Telephone 07 5531 9941 

Fax 07 5531 9908 

Matron 0416 274 129 

Email ian.browne@tss.qld.edu.au 

The Southport School Rogers Boarding Handbook 2013 5


Quick Contact Numbers 

Senior School Reception 07 5531 9911 

Absentee Line/Student Services 07 5531 9850 

Sport Wet Weather Line 07 5531 9860 

Headmaster Greg Wain 07 5531 9931 

Deputy Headmaster Alan Parsons 07 5531 9931 

Dean of Students Years 7, 8 & 9 Richard Dobrenov 07 5531 9986 

Dean of Students Years 10, 11 & 12 Andrew Hawkins 07 5531 9933 

Studies Department 

Jo Inglis, Bryce Golburg & 

Michelle Green 

07 5531 9852 

Sports Department Bryan Hain 07 5531 9828 

School Counsellor Scot Gannon 07 5531 9952 

School Chaplain Father Jonathan Whereat 07 5531 9956 

Business Manager Ross Cardiff 07 5531 9939 

Accounts Office Keith Reynolds 07 5531 9959 

The Store Les Gray 07 5531 9823 

Senior Library Andrew Stark 07 5531 9987 

A comprehensive list of numbers can be found on the Intranet (TSSNet)

About TSS 

‘Let him, who deserves the palm of victory, bear it’ 


The Southport School is an Anglican, GPS, boarding and day school for boys. Founded in 1901 and situated 

along the banks of the Nerang River, it is a focal point to the region, an internationally acclaimed school in the 

heart of Queensland’s Gold Coast. Over 1,400 boys enjoy life at TSS and of these; some 600 are members of the 

Preparatory School from our Preschool to Year 6. 

Though a magnificent landmark upon the Coast, TSS boarding tradition and lore issues from its heartland, 

country Queensland and northern NSW. Generations of boys have spent those ‘best years’ at Southport forging 

friendships and fellowship for life. 

In Rogers House we enjoy the best of both worlds. We live by the Nerang River, within the Senior School 

campus as members of the greater TSS community, yet we are the distinct house for Year 7, a haven for 

younger boys. Our duty of care reflects this spirit of speciality and emphasis upon family. From Matron to the 

youngest member of the House, we are all moving in the same direction, aiming to provide a safe and nurturing 

atmosphere for boys whose homes and family may be many miles away. In many respects, we are a global 

community, from Kingscliff to Korea, Dirranbandi to Dubai, Thargomindah to Tokyo. At the same time, we can 

provide that vital stepping stone into the Senior community and particularly for our Year 7 boys, can assist them 

in paving the way for a smooth transition into Year 8. Whilst a separate entity in the wider boarding community, 

Rogers House recognises its important position within the Preschool to Year 12 educational continuum. 

With the total refurbishment of the dormitory areas in 2012, each boy has a larger area that has a bed, desk and 

wardrobe. We have created a study room downstairs and acquired a large screen TV as well as a Wii. We hope that 

this will make your son’s stay in the house even more enjoyable and we look forward to having a fantastic year in 

2013! 

Welcome aboard! 

Ian Browne 

Rogers Housemaster


Life in Rogers 

Daily Routines 

Rogers House is very much a family concern. At the very core is Matron. Her affection for and appreciation of 

each of her boys establishes a tone that sets the House apart. The Housemaster and Assistant Housemaster, along 

with their spouses and children, reside in the house, whilst four other tutors live in accommodation downstairs. 

The house motto is “Learning for the Future” and this is the very essence of all that is done in Rogers boarding. 

However, once they leave Rogers, they take up their place within one of the four ‘senior boarding houses,’ Biddle, 

Delpratt, McKinley, or Thorold. Throughout the school day, the boys of Senior School mix, work and play as 

one school. Classroom routines and expectations, music tuition and performances, sports practices and matches 

impact upon every boy, Day Boy and Boarder alike. 

A Rogers’ boy enjoys a very full day…week… term… year at TSS. The day starts at 6.30am; showers, dorms 

tidied, breakfast eaten and sports practice is the form before the commencement of School at 8.30am. Classes 

finish at 3.25pm, but the day is often lengthened with specialist sport or choral/instrumental practices till 5pm. 

The evenings present opportunities for formal, supervised prep, revision, tuition, sporting and cultural pursuits. 

Instrumental practices and personal reading challenges are top priorities for every boy every day and indeed, a 

compulsory quiet reading period forms part of evening routine. The 8.15pm Supper signals ‘cool down’ and the 

House is usually well settled for the night by 8.45pm. It is a very full day. 

Whilst the boys have a full and very busy time with a structured and highly organised pattern to the week, the 

weekend allows more flexibility in their programme. At weekends, boys are escorted on “shopping leave”, 

usually to the local Centro Southport (Southport Park) Shopping Centre and during Terms One and Four, have 

the option of joining the Senior boys on supervised “Surf Leave”. Other regular excursions include trips to see 

the NRL games, to the Hinterland and also the cinema. We intend to have a full House excursion, including, if 

possible, all boys and all resident staff, once each term and a number of appropriate venues are under discussion 

and are open to suggestion! Term One is likely to see a fun-packed day at Wet ‘n’ Wild here on the Coast, and of 

course, we hope to have a weekend camp at Hidden Creek (TSS’s Outdoor Education Centre in Northern NSW) 

in Term Two or Three. 

Monday to Friday – Mornings 

6.30am Wake up (Duty Crew first) 

6.20 - 6.55am Rise, showers, bed, dorm, final bag pack and inspection 

7 - 7.25am Breakfast 

7.30 - 8.15am Sports Practice (Cricket Term One) 

8 - 8.05am Non-practice boys leave for school 

8.20am Year 7s at the Senior School leave the House 

Monday to Thursday - Evenings 

3.45 - 5pm 

Afternoon tea – activities 

Music practice & Sports training 

Boys may start prep and use the computer room 

Prime time for making and receiving telephone calls 

5.15pm Showers and get ready for dinner 

5.50 - 6.20pm Formal Dinner - Monday 

6 - 6.25pm Casual Dinner - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 

6.30 - 7pm Individual instrument practise in the Music Building for musicians 

6.45 – 8.15pm 

The boys will walk to the Library, and commence Prep / Homework, under the supervision 

of a Tutor and MOD. 

8.30pm Preparation for bed 

8.45pm Lights out

Friday 

Saturday 

Sunday 

7.30am Pocket Money distribution 

3.45 - 5pm 

Afternoon tea 

Check-outs’ for leave 

6 - 6.25pm Dinner 

Evening House activities (Movie/games/table tennis, etc) 

9pm Lock-up, ‘bed check’ by MOD 

5.30 - 6am 

‘Away’ sportsmen rise, showers, bed, sports kit ready 

Early breakfast when applicable, bus departures from Prep car park 

7am Non sportsmen rise, showers, bed, dorm 

7 - 7.50 am Breakfast 

8am 

‘Home’ sportsmen depart 

School sport, house activities 

1 - 1.30pm Lunch 

1.30 - 5.30pm House based activities, shopping leave, cinema, etc 

5.30pm Showers 


Evening House activities (Movie/games/table tennis, etc) 

9.45pm ‘Bed check’ & lock up 


7.30 - 8am Rise, showers, bed, dorm 

8.30 - 9.30am Breakfast 

9 - 11.30am Surf Leave (Main Beach) Terms One and Four or house activities 

1 - 1.30pm Lunch 

1.30 - 5.30pm House based activities, free time. Shopping leave if not taken on Saturday – together as a 

House 

5.30pm Showers 


6.30 - 7.45pm Free time 

7pm Boarders must return from leave by this time 

7.45pm House meeting 

8.10pm Supper 

8.30pm Bed 

9pm ‘Bed check’ & lock up


Friendship 

Demeanour – Manners 

Leave Arrangements 

Electronic Leave 

To have a friend, you must be a friend. We take care of each other, especially when one of us is feeling ‘alone’. In 

Rogers we expect every boy to feel happy about his day – safe and secure. 

As our Staff Mission statement declares; 

‘Nurturing happiness at work and play’ 

This is the basic right and responsibility of each boy within our school and even more so within the boarding 

community. 

We deliberately care about ourselves and about each other. 

‘Drop’ what you are doing to help or advise another boy, family or visitor to the House. If giving directions, 

escort when appropriate. Don’t treat such requests as an inconvenience – be a help! 

Use proper names when addressing each other. To adults, ‘Ma’am’ or ‘Sir’ if Mr or Mrs…… is not known. 

When you are addressing other boys in the House use their correct name or one you know they are comfortable 

with. 

Each boy will have daily duties to perform for himself and for the House, make sure you do your fair share. 

Table manners are essential – for example, using utensils properly, finish chewing before speaking, speaking 

quietly and with respect for fellow diners. 

Every persons view is valuable even if it is not the same as yours. 

There are four basic types of “Leave” from a boarding house at TSS. All leave from Rogers House is negotiated 

with and is at the discretion of the Housemaster. In his absence, the Assistant Housemaster will assume this 

responsibility. When going on leave, each boy must check out with and notify his return to the relevant MOD, 

the Master on Duty. 

The responsible adult taking the boarder on ‘Leave’ must sign the boy out in the ‘Leave Book’, which is located 

at the front door of the House. The responsible adult must also leave a contact phone number. The adult who 

returns the boarder to the House must sign them back in. 

Rogers’ boarders may not be signed out by older TSS students, even if they are a close relative. 

A Boarding Electronic Leave form is located on the TSS Boarding website (below). This electronic leave form 

must be filled in for any of the leaves identified below. Once sent to Housemaster, a confirmation email will be 

sent to parent confirming this leave is approved. The form is available from this site; 

http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_and_Students/Boarding/Boarderleaveform.aspx 

eLeave - Tea Leave 

This is a special occasion leave which runs from the conclusion of the school day until 8.30pm. This is a special 

privilege and not a regular option. 

eLeave - Weekend Leave 

Starts on Friday afternoon until 7 pm Sunday. If there is a Saturday morning sporting commitment, then this 

leave is not appropriate. This is not beyond negotiation, but it does pose difficulties (e.g. A Brisbane-bound CIC 

Cricketers bus can leave at 6 am. At TSS, teams travel to their fixtures together by bus.)

eLeave - Saturday/Sunday Leave 


Starts at Saturday noon (or following the sporting fixture) until Sunday, 7pm. This is a very practical option if 

you intend to follow your son to his match. Having communicated your intent and checking-out with your 

coach, a ‘Double Sunday’ is soon underway. 

eLeave - Sunday Leave 

Sunday morning until Sunday evening 7pm. All boys must be back by 7pm. A formal house meeting is held at 

7.45pm, followed by an informal supper (if time permits). 

Variations to these leave options will occur. However, if adequate notice is given, the spirit of a ‘family-serving 

house’ will always prevail. Many of our Day Boy families ask boarders out on Leave and this we encourage, 

naturally with the consent of the parents/guardians of the boy in question. Please do not hesitate to raise the 

matter of leave with the Housemaster. 

Please note: All arrangements for weekend related leaves must be finalised by THURSDAY evening at 7pm. A 

phone call is helpful but a WRITTEN, E-MAILED or FAXED confirmation is required by the stated time. (See: 

“The Rogers House Contact Information Sheet,” for phone, fax and e-mail information) 

Supervised Leave 

In each boy’s week there are also two types of supervised leave. The Master on Duty or a Resident Staff member 

designated for that specific task accompanies the boys. 

Shopping Leave 

Your son can nominate up to $15.00 per week pocket money and at the discretion of the Housemaster or the 

Assistant, may go to Southport Park on supervised shopping leave one afternoon during the weekend. It is usually 

a Saturday for approximately one hour. A Master on Duty will supervise this leave. 

Surf Leave 

In First and Fourth Terms the school supplies a bus on a Sunday morning to take boarders to Main Beach. Before 

the boys are allowed to go on Surf Leave they must pass a swimming proficiency test and must attend a lecture on 

surf safety. Boys will also need a swim shirt to protect them from the sunburn while they are at the beach. 

eLeave - End and Start of Term Arrangements 

Accompanying this booklet you will find a copy of the “End and Start of Term Leave Arrangements” form. It 

must be filled by parents before the start and end of each term. It has been designed to streamline the departure 

and returning process to the School. This information can be vital in ensuring that your son has a safe journey 

home and back to school. 

Rogers House staff is also aware that parents are not always able to accompany their sons to or from the School. 

To assist parents in organising transportation arrangements for their son, we have the following suggestions: 

Brisbane International Airport and Brisbane or Coolangatta Domestic Airport 

Rogers House parents, have for several years, utilised the services of Business Class Tours for airport transfers. 

BCT has a safe, inexpensive and personalised door to door service. Boys are picked up directly from their flight 

and driven to the Rogers House door. On departure from the House, boys are picked up from Rogers and 

personally taken to the check-in counter at the airport. BCT can be contacted on 1300 763 005 throughout 

Australia, or on +61 7 5575 7029 from overseas. Further information can be found online at https://secure.bcttransfers.com/index.php. 

Roma Street Transit Centre, Brisbane 

See above regarding Business Class Tours (BCT).


Communication 

Telephone 

Communication is an important aspect of boarding life. To assist the development of the links between parents, 

their son’s and staff we have established the following procedures. 

If you have concerns or questions about aspects of Rogers House boarding communicate directly with the Rogers 

Housemaster. 

If you have concerns or questions about aspects of boarding in general (e.g. the food, facilities, the Medical 

Centre) contact the Senior Boarding Housemaster or your Boarder Parent Representative. (See the accompanying 

‘Contact Sheet’ for details). 

If you have concerns or questions about aspects of school or you son’s class work, ring or e-mail your son’s 

teacher directly. 

If you wish to communicate with your son or follow his life at the School, please see the procedures below. 

If your son has a mobile phone, remember that phones are banned during school hours and must only be used 

during the stated times (specified below). 

A basic mobile phone for just calling/texting is sufficient. 

Camera phones are common place in the wider community, however, for privacy reasons the use of the camera 

component of a mobile phone is banned inside Rogers House. 

No phone calls are to be made or accepted during prep. Mobiles are to be switched off. 

All mobile phones will be collected each night and returned to each boy, each morning. 

The same rules will apply for any on-line communication facility, e.g. Skype. 

WARNING - Any breach of these guidelines will see the privilege of mobiles removed and the phone may be 

confiscated for up to 24 hours. 

Weekday phone times for mobile or House phones 

7.45am - 8.05am (after morning duties are finished) 

3.50pm - 5pm 

8.15pm - 8.40pm 

If a boy’s parents are in a ‘world time zone’ which conflicts with these calling times, other arrangements can be 

made. 

Weekend Phone Times 

8.30am - 8pm (Mobile phones are not to be used in the Dining Hall) 

House Phones 

– incoming calls only: (10 min limit on calls) International + (7) 5531 9820 

The phones will be off the hook for the first hour of prep. If there is an emergency, please contact the 

Housemaster or Assistant Housemaster. 

All relevant phone, fax and e-mail information can be found on the sheet in this information pack. 

Keeping Up With Events (Rogers House Web Site) 

The Rogers House web site can connect you to a variety of different links which will give you important 

information about what your son will be doing. 

• The upcoming weekends sporting activities – “TSS Weekly Sport Organisation” located on the Senior School 

sports website 

• Upcoming school activities – TSS Newsletter / Calendar

E-mail 

• A summary of the week in Rogers – The Boarding Bulletin 

• The minutes of the last Boarding Parents Support Group meeting 


• Roger Photo Album – this is regularly updated with photos of your son involved in activities around the 

House and School. 

In the first few weeks of school, the boys will be given their own school e-mail address. This enables the boys, 

parents, friends and family the opportunity to communicate with each other at any time. 

• Contact for Medical Matters 

• Parents will be notified by Sister or the Housemaster if their son is; 

• Required to stay in the School’s Medical Centre for an extended period of time (e.g. overnight) 

• If Sister determines he needs to see a doctor 

• If he needs to go to the Accident and Emergency Department at Pindara Private Hospital 

• The School’s Medical Centre number is on the sheet in this information package 

Drop Box/Survey 

At the end of each term the Assistant Housemaster surveys the boys to ensure that we are able to identify any 

concerns they may have. The survey also gives the boys an opportunity make suggestions about how we can make 

the Rogers boarding experience better. 

If boys have concern which are more immediate and they feel they are unable to come to a staff member directly 

about it, they can put a note (anonymously if necessary) in the House ‘Drop Box’. 

The Boarding Parent Support Group 

The BPSG is a parent body which is dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of the boarding 

experience at TSS. They raise money through a variety of different functions each year which they then inject 

back into each of the Houses on campus. The money enables Houses to purchase item such as items as DVD 

players, Table Tennis equipment, BBQ’s etc. Thus when your BPSG parent rep calls on you we would encourage 

you help in any way you are able. 

They also act as an advocate for parents who have concerns with aspects of boarding in general. These concerns 

are brought to the BPSG by the House Parent Rep. (See the sheet for details). The BPSG is then able to discuss 

these concerns with the Housemasters and the Headmaster at one of their meetings each term. 

The BPSG Parent Representative 

The BPSG Parent Rep is one of the parents of a boy in Rogers House. They are familiar with the difficulties of 

having their sons a long distance from home. Their task is to take suggestions or concerns to the BPSG. They can 

at time also be a liaison between the Housemaster and parents.


Prep (Homework) and the Evening Session 

After Prep 

Prep is one of the most important aspects of your son’s daily routine. Therefore we like to ensure that prep is an 

effective and meaningful experience in the limited time we have available. 

There is compulsory prep for every boy from Monday to Thursday. The session starts at 6.30pm. This is a very 

structured period of the day and it is based around the following framework. 

6.25pm Instrumentalists to go to the Music Building to start practise 

6.35 - 6.45pm 

6.35 - 7pm 

Remaining boys report to the Master on Duty (MOD) of prep Advise the Master in Charge 

if you need use to the computers 

Move to the Senior School Library, take out Record Book and get organised for prep 

Complete your lunch bag 

7pm - 8.15pm Spelling homework – using the ‘look, cover, think, write, check’ strategy 

7pm Instrumentalists return to the House, then move to Library 

8.15 - 8.30pm Supper, complete House chores, & free time boys may continue to watch TV 

8.30pm Prep stops and the boys prepare for bed 

Important points to note during prep: 

• Stay in your area 

• No talking 

• Mobile phones are to be turned off 

• Downstairs phones are to be off the hook 

• No music is to be played during prep 

• If you do not have homework, see the Master in Charge of prep or commence revision. 

• If you are doing a group project consult, the Master in Charge of prep and he will direct you to where you 

may work. 

• The House is not a place for instrumental practice (see musical practice) 

NB: If boys need longer than the required prep period outlined above to complete all of their homework tasks in 

any given week, they need to be prepared to organise themselves to do this at other appropriate times during that 

week. Organisation is the key. 

8.15 - 8.30pm 

8.30 - 8.45pm 

Musical Instruments 

8.50pm Lights out 

Supper and personal time Continuing homework or reading Extra Prep computer time 

Making and taking phone calls Watching television Playing quiet games or activities (e.g. 

board games) Talking quietly to friends Record books to be collected for the Housemaster 

(Thursdays only) 

All boys to return to the dorm areas Boys are to prepare their bag and sports gear for the 

next day Lunch bags to the boy on duty the next day Boys are to clear their area Toilet 

Brush teeth 

For those boys who have elected to learn a musical instrument it is important to practise regularly. Instrument 

practise will be in the Music Building straight after the evening meal. The boys are expected to be back in the 

House by 7pm. for prep. They are also expected to take their instrument to the Music Building on the way to 

dinner, thus saving valuable time. Storage of these will be under the boy’s bed except where the instrument has a 

soft casing. These instruments will be stowed in Matron’s room. 

Computers in Prep, Homework & Personal use


The House is equipped with eight internet connected computers and a small number of School supplied laptops. 

At the start of each night’s prep the boys will inform the Master in Duty/ Prep Supervisor regarding the period of 

time he wishes to use the computer. The boys can select between a 30 min. or 45 min. time slot. The Master on 

Duty (MOD) will also ensure that all the boys have an equal opportunity to utilize this resource. If a boy requires 

additional time to complete his work, he may request extended periods of time in the afternoon before showers or 

during supper from the MOD. 

Personal Laptops/iPads for Students – IMPORTANT INFORMATION 

Pocket Money 

No student is to bring their own personal laptop/iPad to Rogers House in first Semester, unless permission is 

granted by the Housemaster. There is sufficient access to the School network and Internet from within the House 

and supplied computers for all students. 

If the need arises for a student to have his own personal laptop, permission MUST first be sought from the 

Housemaster. 

A USB memory stick is still useful for transferring information from a student’s personal computers to the school 

computers, particularly for boys who wish to use the House’s colour laser printer. 

The school takes the need for computer safety and security very seriously. Therefore, the misuse of copyright, 

the sourcing of inappropriate material or playing ‘games’ at inappropriate times will invite the special attention of 

the MOD. The playing of computer games on weekdays is prohibited and only sanctioned on weekends. If a boy 

decides to disregard these stipulations, the Housemaster may ban the boy from the computer room or confiscate 

his laptop for a period of time. 

Rogers House operates a bank account for each boy. The House fee is $150 per term and should be given to the 

Housemaster upon your son’s entry to Rogers House. This is not a TSS Store account, but a reserve focussing on: 

• $10 - $15 weekly pocket money 

• Other term-time excursions (e.g. Wet ‘n’ Wild in Term One) 

• An occasional treat (e.g. cake stalls, Book Club) 

• Special events (e.g. free clothes day, birthday cakes) 

Occasional boarders 

Medical Matters 

No boy should be carrying more than $10 at any one time. Any additional cash should be left with the 

Housemaster and appropriate arrangements will then be made. 

The School is equipped with its own Medical Centre. The facility has an eight bed ward, a treatment room and is 

staffed 24 hours a day during term time, by a Registered Nursing Sister. Things parents should note if their son 

needs any medical attention; 

• All medications should be left with the Sister at the School’s Medical Centre. 

• Distribution of all medication will be by the Sister on duty. 

• All specialist appointments are organised directly through Sister. 

If your son becomes seriously ill or injured, he will be taken directly to Accident and Emergency Department at 

Pindara Private Hospital. Parent will be responsible for all medical costs incurred at Pindara Hospital. 

Please ensure that your 2013 Medical Form is filled out and returned to the Housemaster.


Security 

Food 

Personal respect and responsibility are paramount in a boarding community. However that is not always possible 

therefore it is wise to take the following precautions; 

• To lock valuables away if they are not being used 

• Lockers should always be locked when not in use. (The boys are expected to supply a lock for their own 

locker. The spare key can be kept with the Housemaster) 

• No boy should be carrying more than $10 at any one time. (Any additional cash should be left with the 

Housemaster and appropriate arrangements will then be made) 

• No boy should give his computer password to anyone else 

• Boys should ‘log off ’ after using a House computer 

• Boys from other Houses are NOT allowed on the top floor 

• No boy is to wander the grounds or be in a place not designated by the MOD 

• No boy is to leave Rogers House without permission 

Also note, although there are members of the House Staff in residence within Rogers House, the House will be 

locked when the boys are not about. At night the doors are locked at 8 pm. If the House is locked no boy is to 

make an attempt to enter the building. 

If you return from “Leave” and the doors to the House are locked, you will find phone numbers on the front 

door to assist you. 

The School supplies the boys with three meals a day in addition to afternoon tea and supper. There is always fruit 

and milk in the House for additional snacks. 

However, it is not uncommon for parents to give their son’s additional supplies of food. In most cases this 

food tends to be of the high sugar and high carbohydrate variety. We have found that these types of foods are 

not conducive to the maintenance of a studious environment. Therefore, the boys have been given individual 

containers to store the food and they may access this food only on the weekends. 

For health and safety reasons no food is to be consumed in the dorm area or computer room. 

Recreational & Electronic Equipment 

The boys may bring with them a variety of different items they may use in their recreational or free time. Many 

boys enjoy listening to music and thus have their own radio, iPod or CD players. Just remember not everyone 

shares the same taste in music so bring a headset to go with the radio, iPad or CD player. Electronic games are 

welcome but are restricted to weekend use only. NO INTERNET DEVICES are permitted in the House...ie 

iPhone, iPad, iTouch or laptops. 

Some boys have in the past also brought in DVDs from home to play on their computer. Once again this is an 

activity we don’t actively discourage but we do have restrictions. Movies are like computer game restricted to 

the weekends. Because of the range of ages boys in the house and parent expectations the House tries to closely 

follow the guidelines set out by the Australian Censorship and Review Board. The boys may view any movie 

rated ‘G’ or PG’. Selected ‘M’ movies may be watched, but only with the Housemaster’s permission. No ‘MA’ or 

‘R’ movies are to be brought into the House at all. 

For the avid or occasional sportsman most sporting equipment is supplied by the school. However, those boys 

who are looking to play inter-school sport may wish to bring their own equipment (e.g. cricket bat, cricket helmet 

or soccer ball). Having a tennis racket is always a good suggestion. As is a fishing line and tackle. 

The boys are NOT permitted to have a skateboard, rollerblades, rollerskates, scooters or bicycles.

Hygiene 


Don’t neglect proper showering and teeth cleaning. Boys need to bath at least twice a day with soap. You must 

use: 

• your own soap and thongs 

• shampoo, brush and/or comb 

• toothbrush and toothpaste 

• Ears and nails should not be overlooked 

Don’t hesitate to discuss clothing changes with Matron. An accident can be managed very discreetly if Matron 

knows! 

Management of Personal Space 

Clothing 

Name tags 

Waterproofing 

Footwear 

Your son has a limited amount of allocated personal space. Too much gear is a burden to your son and the House. 

(See the following page for a clothing list) 

Matron will always have the final word on clothes. Each boy must ensure that his pick-ups and throw-outs for 

the day are complete. This must not be left to Matron. Boys participating in early morning sport will wear their 

practice kit to school, carrying their Day Dress with them. By 8.50 am, all boys will have changed into Day Dress 

for the school day. Before Matron departs for the day, it is your son’s responsibility and duty to collect his clothing 

from his pigeonhole in her room. 

Day Dress is worn to the Dining Room for meals. On weekends, casuals are worn. ‘Closed in’ shoes and tops 

with sleeves are compulsory. Boys going on leave will do so in neat casuals. 

Chapel Dress is occasionally worn to Chapel service, as directed by the Dean of Students. There will be formal 

occasions at School when Chapel Dress is also the required uniform. However in most cases boys must wear 

smart casual gear to chapel (collared shirt, closed in shoes and long pants). 

Please ensure that every item of your son’s personal kit is marked clearly with his name! Do not bring expensive 

fashion statements to the House. If any items of your son’s property, including socks and jocks are not named, 

the laundry will not know where to return the clothing, making it difficult and time consuming exercise to locate. 

It is also helpful to put a large ‘R’ (for Rogers) on all your son’s items as well. 

When it rains, it is invariably heavy and the boys are required to move about the campus with very little cover 

overhead. It is therefore essential to have a raincoat and head covering. 

During the after school hours, bare feet are real hazards. It is therefore best if they wear shoes at all times. 

They will need closed-in shoes when they enter the Dining Hall and Chapel. 

The mornings and evenings of Terms Two and Three can be very fresh, so the wise lad packs slippers. 

They will need slip on footwear for the beach (thongs). 

The boys should also have their own shoe cleaning gear.


Senior Boarder Summer Uniform - Term One and Start Term Four 

3 Grey short trousers 5 Short sleeved shirt with School pocket 

1 Black leather lace up School shoes (polished) 1 School pullover (optional) 

5 pairs Grey long shocks (elasticised) 1 Felt or wool Akubra hat with School band 

1 Black belt 

Senior Boarders Winter Uniform - Term Two and End Term Three 

1 Navy Blazer 1 Black belt 

1 Black leather lace up School shoes (polished) 5 Short sleeved shirt with School pocket 

5 paris Grey short socks 1 School pullover (optional) 

3 Grey Long Trousers 1 Felt or wool Akubra hat with School band 

Other Requirements 

Optional Items 

1 Long sleeved blue shirt 1 Shirt with collar 

3 White t-shirts 2 Jumpers 

2 Navy sports shorts 4 

Pyjamas (or suitable night attire – boxer 

shorts/t-shirts) 

1 School cap (navy) 4-5 pairs Socks 

1 School swimmers (board shorts are not permitted in pool) 5 Underpants 

2 pairs Short white sport socks/School stripes 6 Handkerchiefs 

1 Striped School tie (Year 12) 3-4 Towels 

1 Tie with School logo (Year 8 to 11) 1 Doona or Duvet 

1 Pair of garters Nametags 

4-5 Casual t-shirts Singlets 

4-5 Casual shorts Toiletries (soap, sunscreen and nail clippers) 

2 Tracksuits Shoe polishing kit 

1 pair Jeans (neat) 

1 School tracksuit 1 School drawstring sports bag 

1 Senior book bag 1 Navy Drizabone coat 

Dress Requirements for Dinner 

Boarders are required to wear smart casual clothing to dinner. This may consist of a collared shirt and smart 

shorts or slacks. No slip on shoes – socks must be worn.

Rogers House Discipline Policy 

House Rules 


All boys in Rogers House are expected to behave and interact in a well mannered, pleasant and cooperative 

manner. They are required to take full responsibility for their actions. Other boys and staff should not have 

their daily routine interrupted by unacceptable behaviour. We want Rogers House to have a happy and relaxed 

atmosphere in which all boys can go about their business effectively and confidently. 

To enable this to occur, the following discipline policy will apply; 

Any boy behaving inappropriately will have a relevant comment placed in the Discipline Log by the Master 

concerned. He will then serve an afternoon detention between 4pm and 5pm on the next available day. During 

this time he will be required to complete a Behaviour Reflection sheet which will be retained on his file. He will 

also be required to do duties around the House and/or write out lines. 

Three negative comments over a four week period or less will result in a weekly detention involving which 

involves the loss of free time between 4pm and 5pm each day from Monday to Thursday. 

A second group of three comments in a term will result in a Saturday Detention involving the loss of free time 

and exclusion from activities for the whole day. 

At this stage the boy will be required to attend a meeting with the Dean of Students to discuss his behaviour. 

Occurrences of seriously inappropriate behaviour may lead directly to the Saturday Detention/ Dean of Students 

stage. 

House activities and excursions now require the completion of a Risk Assessment. Boys who have demonstrated 

that their behaviour puts them in the category of a ‘risk to effective completion of the activity for the group’ may 

have to be excluded until their behaviour improves. 

On a more positive note a Matron’s Weekly Award trophy has been introduced to reward responsible behaviour 

and/or improved effort. 

Each day of the week, a Student on Duty (SOD) and his Assistant are responsible for: 

• laundry bags sorted and carried downstairs by 7am 

• clean-ups in and outside of House 

• common room and TV room to be left spotless 

• check ventilation and security – windows open, taps off 

• supper to be put in fridge, set up and cleared away 

• serving area presentable and hygienic at all times. Washing up in hot, soapy water 

• no food, drink or used utensils to be left in the house 

• all taps, music and computers are off before final walk around by MOD 

• Laundry and pigeon holes are a boy’s daily responsibility 

• Depart the House by 7.25 am for sports practices 

• No Ball Games in the House or dorms 

• at any time, including weekends 

• do not use windows or doorways for ‘ball games’ 

Boys are to catch the School Bus to and from the Senior School. No boy is to cross Ferry Road unless 

accompanied by an adult or under the direct supervision of the Master on Duty. 

You must ALWAYS be in direct view of the Master on Duty (MOD). Boys are not to wander about the grounds. 

There are no exceptions!! 

Boys are expected to walk about the House not run. 

Security in-House 

• check-in and check-out at all times with the MOD. 

• do not go to another person’s bed area uninvited.


• do not go to another person’s locker or pigeon hole. 

• respect ALL PROPERTY. 

• respect PRIVACY. 

• have your name on everything – and don’t bring in expensive stuff! 

• Telephone manners are vital! 

The Senior School Day 

• do not interfere with another person’s call – no expressions of impatience. 

• answer correctly, using names, please and thank you. 

• Stay within the ‘bounds’ and ‘common sense’ – always well-mannered. 

The day begins with sports’ practices at 7.00am. Classes commence at 8.30am. Morning Tea break is at 10.15am, 

Lunch begins at 12.55pm and classroom day finishes at 3.20pm. After a short break, the music and sports practice 

program swings into action. After practices, boarders return to the House for dinner and prep. 

7.00am Sports practices 

8.25am Warning bell to move to Roll Call 

8.30am Classes 

10.15am Morning Tea 

10.40am Classes 

12.30pm House Meetings, Chapel, Leadership, Mentor Period or Cadets 

12.55pm Lunchtime 

1.35pm Classes 

3.20pm Classes dismissed 

3.45pm Co-curricular music/sport practice 

6.00pm Dinner

The Southport School Rogers Boarding Handbook 2013 21


Winchester Street, Southport 4215 Q Australia 

T +61 7 5531 9911 F +61 7 5531 9977 

W www.tss.qld.edu.au 

The Corporation of the Synod of the Diocese 

of Brisbane trading as The Southport School 

CRICOS Provider No 00523F

2013 Rogers Boarding Handbook - The Southport School

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