What will I wear?
When Harry Potter went to Hogwarts his uniform list was given as plain black robes and pointed hat; black winter cloak with silver fastenings. At William Howard, ours is a lot more comfortable to wear! You will wear our school tie, blazer with a white shirt or blouse, black trousers or a school skirt, and plain black shoes.
You can find out more about the WHS school uniform and PE kit, including a price list here: Uniform Information page
Kit needed for PE:
Compulsory Items:
- WHS PE polo shirt (unisex or girl fit)
- WHS shorts, skort or leggings
- Navy socks
Optional Item: WHS PE hoodie
Suitable trainers must be worn for PE (this does not include plimsolls or footwear that is worn as part of the school uniform). Expensive designer trainers or brand names are not necessary.
All property should be clearly marked with your name.
What happens if I forget my PE kit?
Try to remember to pack your correct kit the night before. But if you do forget your kit, tell a member of staff and ask to borrow for the lesson. The kit for loan is washed after every use before being borrowed by students again.
What equipment will I need?
As well as a sturdy school bag to carry your equipment in, you’ll find it useful to have these items in your pencil case:
- Pen
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Eraser
- Pencil sharpener
- Compass
- Protractor
- Colour pencils
- Calculator
- Glue stick
How much homework will I have?
Don’t worry! You might find that you get more homework at secondary school than primary school, however it is all planned for you. Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 are given ‘Get Ahead Tasks’ (GATs), which are independent learning activities designed to enrich and extend your knowledge, skills, and understanding.
What are Get Ahead Tasks?
Each subject (including Character Curriculum in Year 8 and Year 9) provide nine tasks for each year of KS3. These are presented together in GAT booklets. The wide range of tasks, and task type, enables students to choose activities that match their interests, or allow them to focus on subjects where they would benefit from further improvement.
What can I do during break times?
Football, netball, music and drama activities, student forums… life at William Howard certainly isn’t boring! There are a wide variety of clubs and activities that you will be welcome to join. We offer lots of lunchtime and after school activities to enrich your experience at William Howard and try to cater for as many different interests as possible. You don’t need an invitation or letter to join in – if you want to try something out, just turn up at the right place at right time. Clubs are a great way to meet new friends who like the same things as you.
What is the House system?
All students (and staff) have a House Team. There are four teams, named after local features: Eden, Gelt, Talkin and Vindolanda.
Through your time at William Howard, you can earn House Points in lessons and at events such as the House Challenge Day or various competitions.
