Pocklington School - A Guide for International Families Pocklington International | Page 6

All of them are warm, welcoming communities, with cosy rooms, lovely common rooms, and staff who delight in sharing the ups and downs of the day. We are extremely experienced in looking after international students and ensure they integrate well with their peers. English is the primary language of communication and we do expect boarders, in so far as they are able, to talk to one another in English. This is not because we believe English to be better, but because families and students alike tell us they’re keen to take advantage of this valuable opportunity to develop a ‘natural’ ability in English. House staff encourage international boarders to spend time in the common rooms and to join in with the many activities that are organised in each house. As a trained linguist myself, I know how difficult it is sometimes to keep on speaking a ‘foreign’ language - but I also know that ‘practice makes perfect!’ It will get easier and the house staff are right there beside you the whole way! All boarding houses are equipped with Wi Fi and Skype. They are monitored closely, particularly in the junior houses, but we place great importance on facilitating regular communication between families and friends. In the junior houses, all internet-enabled devices are locked up at night. Boarders from Year 10 upwards may keep their devices but ALL students and families must sign our Acceptable Use Policy prior to any internet service being provided. I am sure you will all understand how seriously we take internet safety and appropriate usage of enabled devices. Activities are an important and enjoyable way for international students to make friends and improve their grasp of English. Orchard and Dolman Houses have trips and activities every Sunday, most often leaving the school site to enjoy the cinema, ice skating, indoor climbing, swimming, camping, golf, local wildlife centres, shopping and many other things. Being an international boarder is as much about learning about local culture as it is about learning English, and we are proud of all the local and wider area has to offer. Our wonderful house staff devote their days to caring for our boarders and will do everything they can to support each student. Be brave! Push yourself out of your comfort zone – and the personal rewards will amaze you! Admissions process ACADEMIC SUPPORT There is plenty of academic support for international students in the houses. Many teachers work as non-resident tutors during the evenings and weekends, and other colleagues visit the houses, particularly the senior houses during exam periods, to offer curriculum 6 support. Pocklington School never closes! Relationships between all students and staff are excellent – and help is never very far away. EAL colleagues are in close communication with house staff too, and can step in if a student has particular language challenges. Our admissions process for international students can start at any time throughout the school year. Places are sought-after and it is not uncommon for certain year groups to become full by the February preceding September entry. I am the first contact point for all international admissions into the Foundation – from age 3 to 18. I use email and Skype, and also travel abroad and within the UK, to recruit and to make contact with former, current and prospective students. Please email me at [email protected]