Methodist College Parent Guide 2026 - 2027 by Methodist College Belfast

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LIFE CHANGING OPPORTUNITIES START HERE

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CONTENTS

WELCOME TERM DATES NEW TERM 2026 PASTORAL CARE & FORM TEAMS BECAUSE WE CARE GOOD TO KNOW ATTENDANCE MATTERS GENERAL REGULATIONS CODE OF CONDUCT HOUSE SYSTEM

UNIFORM

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WELCOME FROM THE PRINCIPAL It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Methodist College Belfast, where your child has unlimited access to our celebrated tapestry of opportunity, diversity and excellence that makes Methody truly unique. As a new parent/guardian to the school or a parent/guardian already connected to the College you are embarking upon this exciting journey with your child for the first time which is exciting for you as a family. At Methody, we believe that every child is unique and has the potential to achieve great things. Our dedicated team of passionate staff is committed to unlocking your child’s full potential and guiding them towards success. We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where pupils feel valued, respected, and inspired to explore their interests and talents both inside and outside of the classroom.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. We look forward to working with you as we embark upon this wonderful educational journey together, nurturing their potential and shaping their future. Methody is a place where lifelong friendships begin, where bright futures are built, where leaders are made and where life changing experiences take place.

THIS IS METHODY.

J Lendrum Principal

Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide a well-rounded education that fosters academic excellence, critical thinking, creativity, and socialemotional development. We aim to ignite a lifelong passion for knowledge and equip pupils with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

We place a strong emphasis on character development and values. We believe in instilling in our pupils a sense of integrity, empathy, and responsibility, preparing them to become compassionate global citizens who make a positive impact on society.

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TERM DATES 2026/27 AUTUMN TERM Wednesday 26 August 2026 Friday 18 December 2026

HALF TERM HOLIDAY Monday 26 October 2026 Friday 30 October 2026

SPRING TERM Monday 4 January 2027 Friday 19 March 2027

HALF TERM HOLIDAY Monday 8 February 2027 Friday 12 February 2027

SUMMER TERM Monday 5 April 2027 Wednesday 30 June 2027

MAY DAY HOLIDAYS Monday 3 May 2027 Monday 31 May 2027

STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAYS Friday 25 September 2026 (Transform Ed) Wednesday 21 October 2026 Friday 8 January 2027 Monday 25 January 2027 (Transform Ed) Tuesday 4 May 2027 (Transform Ed) Tuesday 22 June 2027

• All dates are inclusive.

The Education Authority (EA) has a policy of co-ordinating the dates of school holidays in all the Primary and Secondary schools under its control and of providing school transport only on the dates when their schools are in session. Since the College holidays do not always coincide exactly with those of the EA, there can be occasions when the College is in session but there is no school transport. Based on information provided by the EA, it would appear that there will be a number of dates during the 2026 - 2027 academic year when the College will be open but school transport will not be provided and pupils will not be able to use their bus/train passes. Parents/Guardians of any children who may be affected should note that the dates are: Wednesday 26 August 2026, Thursday 27 August 2026, Friday 28 August 2026 and Wednesday 17 March 2027. It is hoped that parents/guardians will make an alternative arrangement to enable their children to attend school on these dates.

NEW TERM AUGUST 2026 WEDNESDAY 26 AUGUST Form 1 pupils and NEW pupils to the College in L6 should attend as indicated below. All Form 1 (9 am - 3 pm) 9.00 am in the Chapel of Unity

New Forms 2 & 3 pupils (9.30 am – 10.30 am) 9.30 am in Reception New pupils in Form 4 (9.30 am – 10.30 am) 9.30 am in Reception L6 (11.10 am – 3 pm) 11.10 am in the Whitla Hall

New L6 pupils (10 am - 3 pm) 10 am in the Chapel of Unity

U6 (10 am – 3 pm) Prefects 9.40 am and then all U6 10.00 am in the Whitla Hall

Canteen lunches will not be available. Pupils should bring a packed lunch.

Canteen lunches will be available.

THURSDAY 27 AUGUST

TUESDAY 1 SEPTEMBER

All pupils should attend. Form 1 (9 am – 3.00 pm) 9.00 am in Tutor Group Rooms Form 1 (9 am - 3.00 pm) Form 2 (9 am – 3.15 pm) 9.00 am in Tutor Group Rooms 9.00 am in Whitla Hall Form 3 (9 am – 3.15 pm) All L6 pupils (9.30 am - 3 pm) 9.00 am in Tutor Group Rooms 9.30 am meet in the Whitla Hall (same as Form 2 Tutor Group Rooms) Further details will follow in August. Form 4 (9 am – 3.15 pm) 9.00 am in the Chapel of Unity Canteen lunches will be available. Form 5 (9 am – 3.15 pm) 9.00 am in Tutor Group Rooms FRIDAY 28 AUGUST (same as Form 4 Tutor Group Rooms) Form 1, L6, U6 and NEW pupils in Forms 2 - 4. L6 (9 am – 3.15 pm) 9.00 am in Tutor Group Rooms Form 1 (9.00 am – 3.00 pm) U6 (9 am – 3.15 pm) 9.30 am buses to Pirrie Park for activity day. 9.00 am in Tutor Group Rooms All Form 1 pupils should wear games kit. Form 1 and ALL L6 pupils

Parents/Guardians are asked to note the times for arrival as above are for these MORNINGS ONLY. On all other mornings, school starts with Tutor Group registration beginning promptly at 8.45 am. School ends at 3.15 pm Monday to Friday. Tuesday 1 September will follow Week B timetable.

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PASTORAL CARE & FORM TEAMS All members of staff are dedicated to support your child throughout their school experience. However, some staff have a very special part to play through the Pastoral Care and Form Teams. The Heads of Section for Junior School, Middle School and Senior School have responsibility for co-ordinating the Form work within the College and are supported by a Form Team consisting of a Head of Form, Deputy Head of Form, Form Tutor and Tutors. Each pupil is a member of a Tutor Group, and the Tutor, who is an integral part of the Form Team, has a specific responsibility for the pupils’ academic and pastoral welfare. The Tutors are in a unique position to establish a working relationship with the pupils in their Group, to monitor their development and to deal with a wide range of matters. If you wish to discuss an issue regarding the educational welfare or

academic progress of your child, contact the Tutor in the first instance or the relevant Head of Form or Head of Department. On occasions, you may have a serious pastoral concern because of family or personal difficulties affecting your child. You should contact a member of the Pastoral Care team, either the Deputy Head of Pastoral Care for Junior School, Middle School or Senior School. Urgent or highly sensitive issues should be brought to the attention of the Head of Pastoral Care or the Vice Principal (Pastoral).

School Structure

Junior School Forms 1 - 3 Middle School Forms 4 - 5 Senior School Forms L6 – U6

WHO TO CONTACT If you have concerns about your child contact their Tutor in the first instance. Your concerns will then be raised with the appropriate member of staff as per below:

TUTOR

DEPUTY HEAD OF FORM 1

DEPUTY HEAD OF FORM 2

DEPUTY HEAD OF FORM 3

DEPUTY HEAD OF FORM 4

DEPUTY HEAD OF FORM 5

DEPUTY HEAD OF L6

DEPUTY HEAD OF U6

HEAD OF FORM 1

HEAD OF FORM 2

HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

HEAD OF FORM 3

HEAD OF FORM 4

HEAD OF FORM 5

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

HEAD OF L6

HEAD OF U6

HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL

IF YOU HAVE A SERIOUS PASTORAL CONCERN BECAUSE OF FAMILY OR PERSONAL DIFFICULTIES AFFECTING YOUR CHILD CONTACT THE RELEVANT DEPUTY HEAD OF PASTORAL CARE.

DEPUTY HEAD OF PASTORAL CARE JUNIOR SCHOOL

DEPUTY HEAD OF PASTORAL CARE MIDDLE SCHOOL

DEPUTY HEAD OF PASTORAL CARE SENIOR SCHOOL

HEAD OF PASTORAL CARE

VICE PRINCIPAL (PASTORAL)

PRINCIPAL

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BECAUSE WE CARE

Further support for you and your child includes: COUNSELLING SERVICE To help support pupils, there is also a counsellor from an independent counselling service called Action Mental Health which is approved by the Education Authority Independent Counselling Service for schools. The Action Mental Health counsellor works in partnership with the College’s Pastoral Care Team. Information about the service is available from the Head of Pastoral Care.

PRINCIPAL’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Support is available from the College to help pupils from financially disadvantaged backgrounds participate in the life and work of the College. This Discretionary Fund is disbursed by the Principal and financed by annual contributions from Methody Collegians. Further information can be obtained from the Principal’s Office: principal@methody.org

TOOLED UP EDUCATION As a member of our school community, you will gain exclusive access to a digital platform called ‘Tooled Up Education’. This gives you privileged access to a digital library, packed full of evidence-based tips, activities, educational webinars and enlightening podcasts, on all matters relating to mental health, aspiration, learning, digital life and family life.

SAFER SCHOOLS NI APP Methodist College is registered with Safer Schools NI; a partnership formed between the Department of Education and INEQE Safeguarding Group to help keep our pupils safe online. This partnership provides the whole school community with digital safeguarding education and an extensive training toolkit. It has been designed by safeguarding professionals to help make school communities safer online. The Safer Schools NI App helps to educate, empower and protect our entire school community.

INDIVIDUALLY, WE ARE ONE DROP. TOGETHER WE ARE AN OCEAN. 9

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SAFEGUARDING At Methodist College both pupils and staff are valued and respected as individuals, and they are encouraged to develop their unique talents and abilities to their full potential. We seek to create a safe, caring, positive and supportive environment in which pupils have the right to be heard and see staff and volunteers as approachable people who will listen to their concerns about issues inside and outside school and take them seriously. We follow government advice regarding our safeguarding procedures. Safeguarding Team • • • • • •

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Mrs Lendrum, Principal Mr Lowry, Designated Governor for Child Protection Mrs Cooney, Designated Teacher for Child Protection Mrs McKay, Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection Mrs Marrs, Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection Ms Artherton, Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection Mrs Steenson, Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection

CHILDREN ARE THE WORLD’S MOST VALUABLE RESOURCE AND ITS BEST HOPE FOR THE FUTURE.

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GOOD TO KNOW THE SCHOOL DAY

Monday – Friday Tutor Group 8.45 – 8.55 Assemblies/Extended Tutor Group 8.55 – 9.10 Period 1 9.10 – 10.00 Period 2 10.00 – 10.50 BREAK 10.50 – 11.10 Period 3 11.10 – 12.00 Period 4 12.00 – 12.50 LUNCH 12.50 – 13.35 Period 5 13.35 – 14.25 Period 6 14.25 – 15.15

All pupils must be in school by 8.40 am for their Tutor Group at 8.45 am. Those who have not reported to Tutor Group or registered in a morning activity before proceeding to Main Assembly or Form Assembly will be recorded as absent (unless they have recorded their presence in school by reporting to the Attendance Office in A Block); you will be required to communicate the reason for absence as soon as possible.

Pupils can arrive for school from 8.15 am. Pupils must remain on the school premises throughout the school day, including break and lunch, unless special leave has been given. Sixth Form only have permission to be out of school during lunchtime. School ends at 3.15 pm Monday - Friday.

WEEK A/B We operate a two-week timetable, so please check the School Gateway App for guidance.

LUNCH ARRANGEMENTS The lunchtime is as follows: 12.50 - 1.35 pm (Monday - Friday) Pupils in Forms 1 - 5 can take lunch in the College Canteen or Deli Bar or eat their packed lunch in the areas allocated. The main canteen area serves hot meals and the Deli Bar is a take-away facility. Both eateries offer a wide range of snacks and meals for break and lunch. We also have a Sixth Form Café for Sixth Form pupils only. All venues cater for all dietary requirements.

A biometric system is in operation and parents/guardians can ‘top up’ online to allow your child to pay for lunch through a cashless system. Pupils are also able to top up their account at one of the cash machines located in the Canteen/Sixth Form Centre.

SOCIAL MEDIA Stay in touch with all school news and follow our social media channels: Facebook @methody Instagram @methodybelfast

Only Sixth Formers are permitted to leave the College grounds at lunchtime, but at no other time without appropriate permission.

For Sport information and updates, follow on Instagram and Facebook: @methodysport @methodyrugby

DRINKS

METHODY MATTERS

Pupils are encouraged to drink water throughout the day and water facilities are provided throughout the school. Flavoured water is permitted. Energy drinks are not allowed.

Methody Matters is a newsletter that is sent every week to inform you of upcoming events and important information.

BUS/TRAIN PASSES The documentation for applying for a bus/train pass is available through the EA website.

LOCKERS Pupils can hire a locker in school. The cost is £10 per year and is non-refundable.

SCHOOL WEBSITE

ALLERGIES Pupils are not permitted to bring nuts or foods that contain nuts into school.

SCHOOL GATEWAY APP The College uses the School Gateway App for most payments, reporting and absence management. Following receipt of your pupil information sheet further details will follow via email to allow you to access this App.

Methody.org Please check the school website for information relating to the school.

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ATTENDANCE MATTERS ILLNESS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY If a pupil feels unwell during school they should go to the San (Medical Room) where the School Nurse will assess their condition. If deemed necessary, they will contact the parent/guardian and request that the pupil is collected from the College. Pupils must not contact their parents/guardians directly in this regard unless advised to do so by a member of staff.

ABSENCE DUE TO ILLNESS OR OTHER UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES In the case of absence due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, parents/ guardians are asked to message the College via the Gateway App before 9.00 am on each day of absence. The Department of Education requires that we receive written confirmation from the parent/guardian when a pupil is absent from school giving the reason and date(s). Notification via the Gateway App on each day of absence satisfies this requirement. If you contact us by telephone this must be followed up by written confirmation from a parent/guardian clearly stating the dates of absence and the reason again using the Gateway App. Parents/Guardians will receive a message via the Gateway App if their child does not arrive in school and we have not been informed

about the reason for their absence. Parents/ Guardians should reply about absences via the Gateway App. All queries not related to absences should be made to reception on 028 9020 5205.

PLANNED ABSENCE

Attendance is key to securing success for your child. Pupils should not be absent from school during term time except in case of illness or other emergency; this is important at the beginning and end of terms as well as at other times. In special circumstances, where absence is unavoidable, leave of absence must be obtained in advance. Requests for leave of absence should be made in writing, explaining the circumstances, a minimum of three days before the required date. Requests for absence for part of a day should be made to your child’s Tutor (in this instance notification via the Gateway App is also acceptable), for a complete day to the Head of Form and for periods longer than one day to the appropriate Head of Section. When a pupil leaves school during the day, for a medical or dental appointment, for example, they must sign out in the Attendance Office and sign in there on return to school. It should be noted that social engagements, entertainment, holidays, etc. are not acceptable as a reason for absence.

REMEMBER TO DOWNLOAD THE GATEWAY APP

MISS SCHOOL, MISS OUT.

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GENERAL REGULATIONS

BEHAVIOUR When places are offered and accepted, it is on the understanding that parents/ guardians will undertake to co-operate with the College in ensuring that their child conforms with its traditions and standards and will accept that the College also has rules which may relate to aspects of a pupil’s life outside the College.

RESTRICTIONS ON CARS IN THE COLLEGE GROUNDS Please note that parents/guardians are not allowed to drive into the College grounds to leave or collect pupils from school unless permission has been sought in exceptional circumstances from the appropriate Head of Section. Pupils are not allowed to drive cars or park in the College grounds.

RESPECT FOR PROPERTY Everyone assists in maintaining the good appearance of the buildings and grounds. Bins are provided at numerous points. Any accidental damage to College property must be reported immediately to a member of staff. Deliberate damage will result in an appropriate sanction.

If there is an emergency, parents/ guardians can phone Reception for advice on how to contact their child. Of course, a pupil may approach a member of staff if an unforeseen situation arises. Sixth Form pupils can use mobile phones in the Sixth Form Centre only.

PERSONAL PROPERTY (INCLUDING MOBILE DEVICES) Every article brought to school, especially all clothing, should be marked clearly with the full name of the owner. While staff will be as helpful as possible, it must be understood that the College cannot accept any responsibility for the loss of such items. All valuables, including bicycles, mobile devices, and musical instruments, should be covered by home insurance. Non-essential items of value or large sums of money should not be brought to school. Items such as watches or money must not be left in changing rooms or the sports pavilions at any time. It is each pupil’s responsibility to take care of their possessions. The College does not accept responsibility for personal property brought into school by pupils.

MOBILE DEVICES

If a mobile device is brought into school, it must be kept out of sight in a school bag or zipped blazer pocket at all times.

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GAMES AND PE All pupils must take part unless they are excused for medical reasons. Requests to be excused from Games must be made via the Gateway App before 12 pm on the day in question. For extended absence from Games, a doctor’s certificate may be required. Special buses are arranged to take pupils to and from afternoon Games venues (at Pirrie Park, Deramore and elsewhere) but parents/ guardians may wish to make arrangements to collect their child from these venues. Parents/Guardians are responsible for transport to ‘home’ fixtures on Saturday mornings. When afternoon Games are cancelled, all pupils in the Forms concerned must attend classes or other activities as arranged by the PE staff. All Games/PE kit and equipment must be clearly marked with the owner’s name.

CHANGES IN CONTACT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS / GUARDIANS

Parents/Guardians should notify the College, in writing, of any change of home address, telephone numbers and email addresses immediately. This should be done via the School Gateway App.

IF EVERYONE IS MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER, THEN SUCCESS TAKES CARE OF ITSELF.

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CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PUPILS At Methodist College Belfast, we want everyone to feel safe, respected and ready to learn. This Code of Conduct sets out clear expectations so that pupils know what is expected of them and understand how their choices affect others. This is based on respect, responsibility and kindness and is strongly aligned with our CREST values.

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senior member of staff. Provide a parent/guardian note if unable to take part in Games or PE. Request permission from staff before missing any lesson (e.g. music lesson). Wear correct College uniform at all times.

ATTITUDE AND BEHAVIOUR

Pupils are expected to:

We expect pupils to behave in a way that reflects pride in themselves and in Methodist College to keep everyone safe and ensure a positive learning environment.

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Pupils should:

ATTENDANCE & PUNCTUALITY

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Attend school every day unless they are unwell or permission has been given in advance. Arrive on site no earlier than 8.15am, unless attending a supervised school activity. Be in Tutor Group by 8.40am each morning. Ensure a Schoolcomms is sent from a parent/guardian for every absence. Attend all timetabled lessons, assemblies, Games and activities. Stay on the school site for the full school day (Sixth Form pupils may leave at lunchtime but must return promptly). Leave the College grounds within 10 minutes of their final supervised activity. If feeling ill during the day, report to the School Nurse – pupils must not leave without permission from the Nurse or a

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Treat everyone with courtesy, fairness and respect. Take responsibility for their behaviour, attitude and appearance. Follow instructions from teaching staff, support staff and College Prefects. Arrive to lessons on time, prepared, and ready to learn. Complete homework and preparation tasks to the best of their ability. Act safely and follow all safety instructions. Respect school property and the belongings of others. Clearly label personal property and look after valuables brought to school. Report accidents, damage or breakages immediately to a member of staff.

Pupils must not:

RESPONSIBILITIES AND CONSEQUENCES

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Pupils are expected to make positive choices and learn from their mistakes.

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Use offensive, racist, sexist, homophobic or threatening language in school or in online communication with other pupils. Behave in a violent, aggressive or intimidating way. Bring alcohol, illegal drugs or any harmful substances into school. Smoke or vape (including e-cigarettes) at any time, whether on school grounds, travelling to and from school, or at school events. Take or use another person’s property without permission. Deliberately damage school buildings, equipment or property. Eat or drink in classrooms, corridors, assemblies, locker areas, toilets or study spaces (still water may be allowed in class with staff permission). Use mobile phones or electronic devices on school premises unless specifically permitted by a member of staff. Take photos, videos or audio recordings without permission from staff and those involved. Bring knives, weapons or dangerous items into school. Tamper with fire alarms, extinguishers or safety equipment.

If the Code of Conduct is not followed: • • • •

Staff will investigate incidents fairly and consistently. Sanctions may be applied in line with the Positive Behaviour Policy. Parents/guardians will be informed where appropriate. Support and guidance will be offered to help pupils improve their behaviour.

DO ALL THE GOOD YOU CAN, BY ALL THE MEANS YOU CAN, IN ALL THE WAYS YOU CAN, IN ALL THE PLACES YOU CAN, AT ALL THE TIMES YOU CAN, TO ALL THE PEOPLE YOU CAN, AS LONG AS EVER YOU CAN. JOHN WESLEY’S CHALLENGE

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HOUSE SYSTEM

HOUSE SYSTEM The House System promotes collegiality, competition, leadership and most of all fun! The Houses are as follows:

DOWNEY HOUSE FULLERTON HOUSE MCARTHUR HOUSE NEILL HOUSE RITCHIE HOUSE WESLEY HOUSE

The new House identities are all taken from the Methodist College Crest. Each House logo contains the Maltese Cross within because even though the pupils compete for their house, they are united as Collegians. When pupils have their place confirmed at the College they will be allocated one of the six houses. If pupils have an historical link to a particular House or House colour and would like this to be continued, please complete this on the Pupil Data Capture Form. Please note we cannot accept requests for houses unless there is a genuine family connection. All information about the Houses can be found on our website. Once pupils have been allocated to their House parents/guardians must purchase a school tie that has the house colour stripe.

WORK HARD, HAVE FUN, MAKE A DIFFERENCE. 23

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WEARING THE CREST WITH PRIDE At Methody, we wear our uniform with pride. All pupils are expected to align with this and take pride in their uniform and follow our uniform regulations.

OFFICIAL UNIFORM STOCKISTS: CA Gowdy Ltd 121-131 Woodstock Road, Belfast David Gotto 72 Stranmillis Road, Belfast McCalls 20-24, Market Street, Lisburn

Financial Assistance towards the cost of school uniform is available for some pupils through the Education Authority’s clothing allowance. The eligibility criteria are the same as those used for free school meals. Please visit the Education Authority website (eani.org.uk) for further information.

PRE-LOVED UNIFORM We have a pre-loved uniform shop in school that is open at key times throughout the year.

Warnocks 791-792 Lisburn Road, Belfast

To view all our policies, To view all our policies, please visit: methody.org/policies

THE UNIFORM

NAVY BLAZER

SCHOOL TIE

DARK CHARCOAL GREY, TRADITIONAL SCHOOL TROUSERS

WHITE BUTTON NECK SHIRT/ BLOUSE

METHODY REGULATION NAVY OR GREY V-NECK

METHODY REGULATION SKIRT

PLAIN BLACK SCHOOL SHOES 25

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COMPULSORY ITEMS •

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Navy blazer with embroidered logo. Blazer with School Crest for Forms 1 - 5, with Maltese Cross for Sixth Form. White button neck shirt/blouse. It must be tucked into trousers/skirt at all times. A plain white revere collar blouse or short sleeve shirt, with a tie, may be worn from the start of the Summer term until the October half term. Methody regulation skirt, navy for Forms 1 - 5, grey for Sixth Form, worn no shorter than knee length with plain, black opaque tights (minimum denier 60) or dark grey knee socks, or Dark charcoal grey, traditional school trousers, full length and regular fit. To be worn with plain black or dark grey socks (no white or trainer socks). House tie (Form 1 - 5) or Sixth Form tie, to be worn up to the top button (fastened) and tied correctly with the Maltese Cross visible below the knot. Plain black shoes with no more than 6cm heel. Please see guidance on acceptable and unacceptable styles.

OPTIONAL ITEMS • •

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Methody regulation navy or grey v-neck knitted jumper may be worn. A plain navy Methody quarter zip top or navy Methody fleece may be worn under the blazer, to and from school, but must not be worn during the school day. External coats/jackets (plain black or navy only) may be worn over blazers but should not be worn inside the school building. Methody scarf.

THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD NOT BE WORN: • • • •

hinos, jeans or ‘jean like’ trousers, C skinny jeans or leggings. Hooded tops/sweatshirts. Non-uniform cardigans/jumpers. Non-regulation scarves.

All items of uniform should be labelled with the pupil’s name. Pupils who lose items of uniform/equipment should check Lost Property. Any garments worn below shirts should be plain, light coloured and not visible.

FOOTWEAR REGULATIONS Please note that the following do not conform to the College regulations and must not be worn with College uniform: • Shoes with white or coloured soles/rim/ logos/trainers or trainer type shoes such as Nike Airforce 1s, Replay footwear, black Vans. • Shoes with suede, nubuck or canvas finish; • Stiletto/kitten/wedge heels/ platform shoes; • Ballet pumps; • Boots/fashion footwear above the ankle.

BELOW ARE EXAMPLES OF UNACCEPTABLE FOOTWEAR

BELOW ARE EXAMPLES OF ACCEPTABLE FOOTWEAR

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ADDITIONAL UNIFORM GUIDANCE •

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At Methodist College, pupils are expected to maintain a standard of personal appearance that reflects the values and traditions of the College community. Hair should be neat, tidy and appropriate for school, supporting a purposeful and respectful learning environment. Hair colour should be within a natural range (e.g. blonde, brown, black, natural red) and extreme or unnatural colours (e.g. bright pink, blue, green, purple) are not permitted. Highlights or colouring should be subtle and not sharply contrasting. Hairstyles should be moderate in style and appropriate for school. The following are not permitted: ◊ Shaved patterns, lines, skin fades or designs in the hair or eyebrows. ◊ Extreme contrasts in length (e.g. very short shaved sides with significantly longer top). Hair must be cut to a minimum of a number 2 clipper grade.

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Accessories should be plain, small and in neutral or school colours. Large or decorative accessories that draw attention are not appropriate for school. Nails should be natural in colour and should be an appropriate and safe length for a working environment. If worn at all, makeup should be subtle and natural in appearance. The following piercings are permitted: ◊ Ear (no more than 2 small, plain studs per ear). ◊ Nose (a clear retainer may be worn but no nose stud). Parents/Guardians/Pupils must ensure that new piercings are done during the summer period to allow for removal from the start of term. Pupils will be required to remove the following if worn: bars, spacers, hoops and any other facial piercing (e.g. in septum, on eyebrow, on lip). Pupils are discouraged from wearing valuable items in school. One ring may be worn but bracelets and necklaces are not permitted. Visible tattoos are not permitted. All jewellery and piercings must be removed prior to PE/Games. In the case of a new piercing that cannot be removed, a clear flat top plastic retainer must be purchased and worn. The inability to remove a new piercing will not be deemed an acceptable reason to be excused from PE or Games. No badges or pins should be worn that are not affiliated with the College.

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EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES FOR UNIFORM If for any religious, SEN and/or any other unavoidable reason a temporary deviation from the Uniform Regulations is required, a written request should be made to the Head of Form. (For example, a pupil may be unable to wear their complete school uniform due to a broken leg or arm. If this is the case, full school tracksuit or tracksuit bottoms and regulation top may be worn).

BOYS’ PE/GAMES COMPULSORY ITEMS • • • • •

GIRLS’ PE/GAMES COMPULSORY ITEMS

If a head covering is worn for any reason it should be plain fabric – black, white or navy in colour.

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Individualism is not an acceptable reason to depart from the regulations.

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The College reserves the right to issue further guidance to pupils during the school year in the event of fashion trends impacting adversely on pupil appearance. For all matters relating to uniform and appearance, a final decision will rest with a Vice Principal or the Principal.

Methody rugby top, Methody navy PE T-shirt or plain navy unbranded T-shirt*. Methody navy shorts or plain navy unbranded shorts*. Hooped navy/white socks and/or white ankle socks*. Non-marking training shoes*. Rugby/football boots are required if playing rugby*.

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Methody navy PE T-shirt or plain navy unbranded T-shirt*. Methody navy skort or plain navy unbranded skort*. Hooped navy/white socks and/or white ankle socks*. Non-marking training shoes*.

PE/GAMES OPTIONAL ITEMS • • • • • • • •

Methody navy quarter zip top. Methody navy fleece. Methody tracksuit bottoms. Methody rain jacket. Methody base layer (navy or white). Methody girls’ leggings. Methody backpack. Methody beanie/bobble hat.

To purchase PE kit visit our online shop:

methody.org/shop

INFORMATION ABOUT PE/GAMES UNIFORM

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PE and Games uniform should be purchased from the online School Shop (methody. org/shop), with the exception of those unbranded items marked with an *. Items can be collected from the shop by pupils at lunchtimes on Tuesday and Thursday during term time. Details of all opening times and how to order are available on our website.

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It is strongly recommended that: • in contact sports mouthguards and shin guards are worn; • in sunny weather sun cream should be applied.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PUPILS

Pupils going home after Games or after school practices are permitted to wear either full school uniform, including blazer, or navy blue tracksuit bottoms and top, (but not a mixture of school uniform and Games/ PE kit). Leggings are not an acceptable alternative. If a pupil is representing the College on a team, agreed MCB apparel must be worn.

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Leaving between lunchtime and breaktime – change at breaktime; Leaving after lunch – change at lunchtime; Leaving at the end of school for a match or practice – change after school.

If pupils return during the course of the school day they must change into full uniform.

It is the responsibility of our pupils to make themselves aware of the Uniform Regulations. These are displayed around the College and are available on the school website. Pupils should understand the correct uniform and the way in which the uniform should be worn. Pupils should also be aware that failure to follow these regulations may lead to disciplinary sanctions. We want all of our pupils to wear their uniform with pride.

UNIFORM REGULATIONS FOR ALL PUPILS If pupils are involved in a sporting activity from the beginning of the school day, they may only come to school in their full tracksuit if they have been given permission to do so by the Head of PE or the teacher in charge of the activity. Shorts or leggings must not be worn throughout the school day. Sliders, Crocs or similar casual footwear are not permitted with sports kit in school.

If pupils are leaving for a sporting activity during the day they come into school in their uniform and they change at the following times:

I THINK IT’S A BEAUTIFUL THING WHEN YOU WEAR A UNIFORM WHICH REPRESENTS A GROUP OF PEOPLE, BECAUSE WHAT IT SYMBOLISES IS ONENESS, TOGETHERNESS.

PA R E N T G U I D E 2 0 2 5 / 2 6

METHODY’S CULTURE OF DETERMINATION, EXCELLENCE AND ENCOURAGEMENT CREATES AN ENTIRELY UNIQUE AND WONDERFUL ENVIRONMENT.

COMING TOGETHER IS A BEGINNING, STAYING TOGETHER IS PROGRESS, AND WORKING TOGETHER IS SUCCESS.

Methodist College 1 Malone Road Belfast BT9 6BY 028 9020 5205 methody.org