Laura Jones in a Prefects Meeting

I really hope you're looking forward to joining us in September. Having been in the school for 7 years, I've outlined below some practical advice tips to help you prepare for and get through the first few weeks here and I hope it helps!

• Clothing - School casual wear tends to consist of dark blue jogging bottoms ('tracky bums') and a school issue sweatshirt ('hoodies'), but as well as the school kit you need for games sessions, we are permitted to wear casuals after certain times each day. Dark coloured tracksuit bottoms are an essential part of one's wardrobe, as we don't tend to go formal on a day-to-day basis, although once allowed you need not wear school issue items so bring your own casual gear too! It's also handy to have some spare outfits for trips etc. Jeans and a smart top for casual, something for smart/casual events and finally your formal suit for those formal occasions.

• Accessories - Sixth Formers for some reason don't tend to carry their books/papers etc in bags or satchels to and from lessons, but that's down to personal preference and choice. We have notice boards within bedrooms to decorate, so bring plenty of personal items for your own study room as this will make you feel more at home. Pictures, posters and colourful bedding are the usual additions to the girls study rooms. Bring some snacks as well ... they come in handy if you get hungry at times, and can be a good supplement to the other nibbles supplied to the houses.

• The Sixth Form Centre - this is the social hub for all Sixth Form pupils, and is where we can come and go during the day. Everybody meets at break time to have a snack from the tuck shop, or may meet before we wander over to lunch at the Dining Hall. So if you're ever short of a buddy, my advice is to head for the Sixth Form Centre! We have SKY TV there as well as pool tables and chill-out areas where we hang out until Prep when we return to our houses.

• Making Friends - The Sixth Form Centre parties are one of the main highlights of the term. They're usually 'themed' fancy dress parties with a DJ playing the music and Mr Cooper supplying the refreshments! So make sure you bring some clothing or articles that can be used for fancy dress, although some of the best efforts are made by hand! Everyone enjoys these parties as it's one of the most significant privileges the Sixth Formers have. Some people make an incredible effort with their costumes and it can pay off as there is generally a prize for the best!

• Not feeling 100%? - Occasionally homesickness may kick in, or you just don't feel on top of your game. Most of the other Sixth Formers will be willing to help out no doubt, but the House Parents are great, and are there to get you on the right track. Otherwise there are the 'San Sisters'. These are the Sisters who work in the school's medical centre known as 'The Sanatorium' or 'The San!' for short. They are always close to hand even if you just fancy a chat and a cup of tea ... they can usually help you out in one way or another.

• Daily Routine - Morning Chapel Service is our version of morning assembly. We all take turns in leading a service, sharing an experience or delivering a special message to the rest of the school. Don't be alarmed if the Chaplain approaches you to take your own service ... generally every member of the Sixth Form will take a chapel service in their time here. It will be one of the most memorable and momentous memories you will take from your time at Christ College. Games time is another great opportunity to make new friends. This happens in the time after lessons. These sessions are great fun whether you are in the 1st XI or 3rd XV! There is always a sense of teamwork and it is a great time to get to know other people. After tea and before 'Prep' (homework) we may head to the Sixth Form Centre or if the weather is good we tend to chill out on the 1st XV pitch and have some impromptu games there.

• The Leadership Course. This is a fantastic opportunity especially for making friends. It takes place in the first week of term ... we're thrown into team building/communication exercises as well as water sports and other activities which tend to bring you closer as a group. It's great fun and is such a great experience.
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  Leadership Course

I hope these little pointers will help you settle in quickly to Christ College life. Never be worried about making new friends here as all of the new Sixth Form pupils arriving here will be in the same situation as you, and even the existing Sixth Form have been at some stage also. They will be as keen to make new friends as you are, and will be around to help you settle in and point you in the right direction.

Looking forward to seeing you in September, Good luck!

Laura Jones

Deputy Head of School 2009/10