RRogers Boarding Handbook 2012 - The Southport School

Rogers Boarding Handbook 2012 

R

The Southport School 

Rogers Boarding Handbook 2012

2 The Southport School Rogers Boarding Handbook 2012 

Table of Contents 

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

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

Rogers House 2012............................................................. 3 

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

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

Phone 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....................................................................... 7 

Daily Routines............................................................ 7 

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

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

Friday.......................................................................... 8 

Saturday...................................................................... 8 

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

Friendship............................................................................ 9 

Demeanour – Manners ...................................................... 9 

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

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

eLeave - Tea Leave.................................................... 10 

eLeave - Weekend Leave.......................................... 10 

eLeave - Saturday/Sunday Leave............................. 10 

eLeave - Sunday Leave.............................................. 10 

Supervised Leave ...................................................... 10 

Shopping Leave......................................................... 10 

Surf Leave................................................................... 11 

eLeave - End and Start of Term Arrangements....... 11 

Brisbane International Airport and Brisbane or Coolangatta 

Domestic Airport......................................... 11 

Roma Street Transit Centre, Brisbane...................... 11 

Communication................................................................... 11 

Telephone................................................................... 11 

Weekday phone times for mobile or House phones 

12 

Weekend Phone Times............................................. 12 

House Phones ........................................................... 12 

Keeping Up With Events (Rogers House Web Site)......... 12 

Reports....................................................................... 12 

E-mail.......................................................................... 12 

Contact for Medical Matters..................................... 12 

Drop Box/Survey........................................................ 12 

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

The BPSG Parent Representative............................. 13 

Prep (Homework) and the Evening Session...................... 13 

Important points to note during prep:.................... 13 

After Prep................................................................... 14 

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

Computers in Prep, Homework & Personal use............... 14 

Personal Laptops/iPads for Students – 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION............................................ 14 

Pocket Money...................................................................... 14 

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

Security................................................................................. 15 

Food..................................................................................... 15 

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

Hygiene................................................................................ 16 

Clothing............................................................................... 16 

Name tags.................................................................. 16 

Waterproofing............................................................ 16 

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

Preparatory Boarders Uniform.................................. 17 

Other requirements................................................... 17 

Optional Items........................................................... 17 

Dress Requirements for Dinner................................ 17 

Rogers House Discipline Policy.......................................... 18 

House Rules......................................................................... 18 

No Ball Games in the House.................................... 18 

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

The Prep School Day................................................. 19

The Southport School Rogers Boarding Handbook 2012 3 

Headmaster’s Welcome 

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”. 

Peter Bromley 

Director of Boarding 

Rogers House 2012 

To new boys and their parents, welcome to Rogers House for the 2012 school year and welcome back to those 

returning. You will find all the relevant details in the boarding booklet, but please do give Sharon Joss or I a 

call if you have any questions. Meanwhile, what I need from you prior to your arrival are the following: 

• The 2012 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 24 January. There will be an orientation for 

all new boys starting at the TSS Prep School at 9.30am. It will be followed by a “Prep Boarder’s Orientation” 

at 11 am. All orientation activities will be completed by 12.15pm. Rogers House boarders will be expected to 

arrive at the House on Tuesday 24 January with their belongings between 4 to 5pm. 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 2012. 

Ian Browne 

Rogers Housemaster


Rogers House Contact Information 

Postal Address 


Winchester Street 

SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 

Phone Numbers 

House Phones 

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

(for incoming calls only) 0011 61 (07) 5532 5783 

Housemaster Ian & Carlene Browne 

Home (07) 55319941 

Fax (07) 5531 9908 

Mobile 0414 319 915 

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

Assistant Housemaster Sharon Joss 

Home (07) 5531 9886 

Mobile 0405 371 858 

E-mail sharon.joss@tss.qld.edu.au 

Matron Judy Cronk 

Monday – Friday (split shift) 6.30 – 9.30am & 2.30 – 4.30pm 

Work (07) 5531 9820 

Mobile (Monday – Friday) 0416 274 129 

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

Resident Master......................................................................James Stewart.......................................................... 07 5531 9820 

Resident Master......................................................................Sean Cox.................................................................. 07 5531 9820 

Resident Master......................................................................TBC......................................................................... 07 5531 9820 

Junior Resident Master..........................................................Richard Woodmason............................................... 07 5531 9820 

Other Useful Numbers 

Health Centre.........................................................................TSS Nursing Sisters................................................ 07 5531 9927 

TSS Store................................................................................Les Gray................................................................... 07 5531 9823 

TSS Prep Office (8.15am - 5.00pm).....................................Jenny Yorath & Sonja Curko.................................. 07 5531 9943 

TSS Prep Fax Number............................................................................................................................................. 07 5531 0542 

Prep Sport...............................................................................Wet Weather Cancellation...................................... 07 3030 8995


Boarding House Contacts 

Biddle 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) 

Delpratt House 

Housemaster 

Mr Phil Ward 

Assistant Housemaster Mr Karel Bos 

Telephone 07 5531 9904 

Fax 07 5531 9976 

Email 

phil.ward@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colours 

Royal Blue & White 

Emblem 

Gryphon’s Head 

Motto 

“Tasche Sans Tache” 

(Honour without Blemish) 

McKinley House 

Housemaster 

Mr Peter Bromley 

Assistant Housemaster Mrs Eleanor Mackie 

Telephone 07 5531 9903 

Fax 07 5531 9974 

Email 

peter.bromley@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colours 

Maroon & White 

Emblem 

A Lion Rampant 

Motto 

“Peraget Angusta ad Augusta” 

(Through narrow straits to victory) 

Thorold House 

Housemaster 

Mr Daniel Brown 

Assistant Housemaster Mrs Susan Presto 

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) 

Rogers House 

Housemaster 

Mr Ian Browne 

Assistant Housemaster Mrs Sharon Joss 

Telephone 07 5531 9941 

Fax 07 5531 9908 

Matron 0416 274 129 

Email 

ian.browne@tss.qld.edu.au 

Colours 

Gold & Black 

Emblem 

Skull and Crossbones 

Motto 

Families Servicing Families


Quick Contact Numbers 

Preparatory School 

Preparatory School Reception & Absentee Line.................................................................................................... 07 5531 9943 

Head of The Preparatory School................................Jeff Symms......................................................................... 07 5531 9943 

Deputy Head - Pastoral Care......................................Mark Wyer.......................................................................... 07 5531 9943 

Deputy Head - Curriculum........................................Kathryn Barry..................................................................... 07 5531 9943 

Chaplain.......................................................................Father Phil Crook.............................................................. 07 5531 9958 

Sports Master...............................................................Nathan Stains..................................................................... 07 5531 9943 

Music Master...............................................................Trisha Matthias................................................................... 07 5531 9943 

Library..........................................................................Deb Schinckel.................................................................... 07 5531 9849 

Senior School 

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 8 & 9......................................Andrew Hawkins............................................................... 07 5531 9986 

Dean of Students Years 10, 11 & 12............................Cameron Herbert.............................................................. 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 Prep Year to Year 7. 

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 Prep, a haven for younger boys. Our duty 

of care reflects this spirit of specialty 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 P to12 

educational continuum. 

With the total refurbishment of the dormitory areas in 2001, each boy has a larger area that has a bed, desk and wardrobe. 

We have created a study room upstairs 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 2012! 

Welcome aboard! 

Ian Browne 

Rogers Housemaster 

Life in Rogers 

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 “Families serving families” and this is the very essence of all that is done in prep boarding. 

However, once they arrive at the Preparatory School, they take up their place within one of the four ‘day houses,’ 

Dixon, Mitre, Musgrave or Shepherd. Throughout the school day, the boys of Prep 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. 

Daily Routines 

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 8.50am. Classes finish at 3.30pm, 

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 7.15pm 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 taken 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 - 8.30am 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 and Wednesday (Wednesday casual attire) 

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

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

6.30 - 7pm Prep for all other boys 

7 - 7.15pm All boys stop prep and watch the ABC news 

7.15 - 7.45pm Supper, additional individual prep, reading or selected television 

7.45 - 8.30pm Second prep 

8.30pm 

Preparation for bed 

8.45pm 

Lights out 

Friday 

7.15am 

3.45 - 5pm Pocket Money distribution 

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 

Saturday 

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 

6 - 6.30 pm Dinner 

Evening 

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

9.45pm 

‘Bed check’ & lock up


Sunday 

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 - 6.30pm Dinner 

6.30 - 7.45pm Free time 

7pm 

7.45pm 

8.10pm 

8.30pm 

9pm 

Friendship 

Boarders must return from leave by this time 

House meeting 

Supper 

Bed 

‘Bed check’ & lock up 

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

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. 

Demeanour – Manners 

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.


Leave Arrangements 

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. 

Electronic Leave 

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 8.30 pm. 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 $10.00 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.


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. 

This year the swimming test and lecture will be on Thursday 26 January. 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 checkin 

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.bct-transfers.com/index.php. 

Roma Street Transit Centre, Brisbane 

See above regarding Business Class Tours (BCT). 

Communication 

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. 

Telephone 

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). 

Phones with internet capabilities are banned, ie. iPhones, some Nokia, etc. A basic mobile phone for just calling/txting 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 - 8.30pm 

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 

– incoming calls only: (10 min limit on calls) International + (7) 5532 5783 

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 – Sporty Fridge Facts 

• Upcoming school activities – TSS Newsletter or Prep School Calendar 

• 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. 

Reports 

The Prep School issues reports at the end of First, Second and Fourth Terms. A formal Rogers House report will 

accompany the Prep School report at the end of Term Two. Twice a term parents will also receive a “Boarders Brief ” 

from their son’s class teacher, outlining his progress in class. The “Boarder Briefs” will be e-mailed by the class teachers 

or mailed if parents do not have an e-mail facility. 

E-mail 

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 

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 

6.25 - 6.30pm Remaining boys report to the Master on Duty (MOD) of prep 

Advise the Master in Charge if you need use to the computers 

6.35 - 7pm Move to your own areas, take out Record Book and get organised for prep 

Complete your lunch bag 

7pm - 8.15pm Desk lamps to be turned on and overhead lights are to be turned off 

Spelling homework – using the ‘look, cover, think, write, check’ strategy 

7pm 

Instrumentalists return to the House 

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.


After Prep 

8.15 - 8.30pm Supper and personal time 

Continuing homework or reading 

Extra 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) 

8.30 - 8.45pm All boys to return to the dorm areas 

8.50pm 

Musical Instruments 

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 

Lights out 

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 7 pm. 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 

No student is to bring their own personal laptop/iPad to Rogers House. 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. 

Pocket Money 

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 

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. 

Medical Matters 

Security 

Food 

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 2012 Medical Form is filled out and returned to the Housemaster. 

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 

Clothing 

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 

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). 

Name tags 

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. 

Waterproofing 

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.


Footwear 

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. 

Preparatory Boarders Uniform 

3 Charcoal grey shorts 2 House polo shirts (R - 7) 

1 Charcoal grey trousers (Year 7 only) 2 Navy sports shorts 

1 Black belt 1 Prep Polo Shirt (Representative players) (Years 4-7) 

5 Short sleeved blue shirt with School pocket 2 White Sports Socks (School stripe) 

1 Long sleeved blue shirt (Year 3 - 7 Chapel Dress) 1 Senior School bucket hat (Year 7 only) 

1 School tie (Years 3 - 7) 1 Broad brimmed navy School hat – compulsory for play 

2 School pullover 1 School bathers 

5 Grey long socks 1 Art overall (large shirt) 

1 Garters 1 School bag 

1 Black leather lace up School shoes 1 School tracksuit 

1 Akubra felt hat with School band (Year 7 only) 1 Sneakers/sports shoes 

Other requirements 

4-5 Casual t-shirts 3-4 Towels 

4-5 Casual shorts 1 Doona 

1 Jeans or long casual pants 1 Mattress protector 

1 Shirt with collar Singlets 

2 Jumpers Name tags 

2 Tracksuits Toiletries (soap, sunscreen and nail clippers) 

4 Pyjamas (or suitable night attire – boxer shorts /T shirts) Shoe polishing kit 

6 Underpants 

6 Handkerchiefs 

1 Slippers 

1 Thongs (for shower) 

1 Rash shirt (swimming shirt) 

4 Socks 

1 Good casual shoes 

Optional Items 

1 Cream cricket hat 1 Navy Drizabone coat 

1 School drawstring sports bag 

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.


Rogers House Discipline Policy 

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 and5 pm 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. 

House Rules 

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

• laundry bags sorted and carried downstairs by 7 am 

• 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 

• 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 Prep 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! 

• 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 Prep School Day 

The Prep day begins with sports’ practices at 7.30 am. Classes commence at 8.50 am. Lunch initiates First Break at 11 

o’clock and a staggered finish ends the classroom day by 3.30 pm. After a short break, the Music School and sports 

program swings into action, which continues through to 5 pm when the boarders return to the House for afternoon tea 

and dose prep after dinner. 

7.30 am Sports practices 

8.30 am Bell to finish sports practices 

8.40 am Lunch orders to class Tuck box 

8.50 am Classes 

11 am Break 1, lunchtime 

11.20 am Play bell 

11.45 am Classes 

1.15 pm Break 2 

1.45 pm Classes 

2.30 pm Reception classes dismissed 

3 pm Year 1 dismissed 

3.15 pm Years 2 dismissed 

3.30 pm Years 3-7 dismissed 

3.45 pm Co-curricular music/ Specialist sports 

5 pm Prep day draws to a close 

Boys not involved in sports practices should arrive at school after 8 am and all boys should have left the Prep School 

campus by 5.15 pm.


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

RRogers Boarding Handbook 2012 - The Southport School

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