Introduction
At Maths Camps, we want pupils to be fully present, build friendships and immerse themselves in challenging and enjoyable mathematical activities.
We recognise that pupils and families value staying in touch during a residential experience. This policy aims to balance opportunities for contact with home while helping pupils make the most of camp life.
This policy has been developed taking into account feedback from families, schools and partners, recent Department for Education guidance, and the practical needs of a residential programme, including the varied ways pupils travel to and from camp.
Pupils may bring a mobile phone to stay in touch with home and to support their travel to and from camp.
During camp activities, phones should be switched off and kept out of sight unless a member of staff has given permission. Calls and messages home should normally take place during the dedicated contact time after dinner.
Families will be provided with a 24-hour contact number and can contact the camp team at any time if there is an emergency or urgent concern.
Communication with Home
Pupils can call or text home during the dedicated contact time after dinner each evening.
If there is a welfare or family need outside this time, pupils may contact home with permission from a member of staff.
Families will be provided with a 24-hour emergency contact number. In the event of an emergency, families should contact this number and staff will ensure messages are passed on promptly.
- Bootham School: 0203 432 3454
- Christ’s Hospital: 0203 432 3455
Expectations
Pupils must not use mobile phones, smart watches or other connected devices during camp activities unless a member of staff has given permission.
Devices should be turned off and out of sight during learning sessions, meals, group activities and other programmed events. Devices should not disturb other pupils in bedrooms and should be on silent overnight unless agreed with Maths Camp team.
Pupils must not use personal devices to take photographs, videos or audio recordings of other participants or staff without permission.
Pupils must not use personal devices to access or share inappropriate, harmful or offensive content.
Where a device is used in any way that disrupts camp, compromises safeguarding or breaches this policy, staff may confiscate it temporarily and return it at an appropriate time. Repeated or serious breaches may be dealt with under the Behaviour Policy.
Maths Camps staff will not access a pupil’s device or ask a pupil to unlock it. If it is suspected that a device has been used to commit a crime, or contains material that may constitute a criminal offence, the police will be notified in accordance with our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.
Liability
Participants bring electronic devices at their own risk. Maths Camps cannot accept responsibility for the loss, theft, damage or battery depletion of personal devices, although reasonable steps will be taken to support pupils if an issue arises.