Discussing Problems

If you are experiencing any problems at Ashford School and would like to talk to someone about it, see below for details on what to do.

• If you are a PARENT of a pupil at Ashford, click here to download the complaints policy.
• If you are have a concern or suggestion about the catering at Ashford there is a suggestions book in the refectory which you may fill in at any time. The catering team is obliged to respond to any comment or query.
• If you are a PUPIL or BOARDER, see below for details on who to talk to.

BOARDERS 
If something is making you unhappy or worried, what can you do?  It is always best to talk to someone: there is always someone who can give you a helping hand.

• Is there a friend who can help?  An older boy or girl?
• Your house staff?
• Your day house tutor?
• One of the school nurses?
• The Chaplain, Mrs Roylance?
• The Director of Boarding, Mr Wilding?
• Dr Kim Gardner (School Doctor):  Sydenham House Surgery (01233 645841) or Northside Clinic (01233 661846)
• Sarah London, School Counsellor (appointment via Medical Centre)
• Elaine Rose, a School Governor (contact her privately on elainerose@f2s.com)

You do not have to be on your own when you talk to someone, you can always have a friend with you or a member of staff.

If you are aware of another pupil having problems it is important that you let someone know.

Can I talk to someone not connected to the school?
Yes, of course.  You might want to talk to your parents, your guardian or you can ring one of the helplines:

• Shirley Goldwin (Independent Listener)  01303 813009
• CHILDLINE  0800 1111
• NSPCC Helpline  0808 800500

If you have a complaint…

• Go and see or write to Mr Wilding (Director of Boarding) first.
• If you are not satisfied: Address your complaint to Mrs Howard (Principal Deputy Head) or, in her absence, Mr Buchanan (Head).

If you are still not satisfied, you can contact OFSTED: they are responsible for the care and welfare of pupils in boarding schools.  Their contact details are:

• Email: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk
• By telephone:08456 404045 about education, adult skills, or local authority children's services 
  08456 014772 if you want to make a complaint or have a concern about any service for children and young people (0800 - 1800) 
  08456 404040 about any other aspect of our work (these helplines are available from 0800 - 2000, Monday to Friday)
• By post: Ofsted, Royal Exchange Buildings, St Ann's Square, Manchester, M2 7LA