FAQs - Year 7 Guide to Starting at Harris Boys’ Academy
We are very much looking forward to welcoming you to the Academy. In this guide we have included a great deal of useful information.
When will I be coming to Harris Boys’ Academy?
Students in Year 7 start on Monday 4 September 2023. We have allocated a full day just for Year 7 so that we can dedicate the whole day to make sure that you are familiar and comfortable with the plans we have put in place and participate in a Transition Day experience.
Do I need to wear uniform?
All students must wear full HBAED uniform. The uniform includes black trousers that must be school trousers. Chino or jean style trousers are not permitted. It is also important that you also wear the correct shoes. These must be black leather shoes that can be polished. As autumn and winter approach can I also remind you that HBAED students wear a plain dark coloured coat. Camouflage style coats are not permitted.
The Harris School bag is also part of our daily compulsory uniform. Please also remember that you should not have decorated your hair or eyebrows with any designs/cut-alays or non-natural dyes. If you have a query, please check our uniform and equipment policy if you would like examples of acceptable uniform and further information.
What do I need to bring?
You will need to bring the blue Harris rucksack suitable for schoolbooks, this is where you can keep your water, packed lunch, PE Kit etc.
Please note that will need your own personal learning equipment including black, blue, red and green pens, pencils, ruler, pencil, sharpener etc.
What lessons will I have?
On Monday 4 September 2023, after a welcome session delivered by your tutor and an assembly led by the Principal, you will follow your normal timetable of lessons. This means you will get to meet a selection of your teachers and start your learning journey straight away. Please note that you will not need your PE kit for Monday 4 September and that you will receive your full timetable on your second day at the school.
Where will I have my lessons?
Your lessons will be held in your classrooms depending on the various subjects.
How will I enter the Academy?
On Monday 4 September, you will enter the Academy grounds via the student gate on Peckham Rye. Once you have entered you will be directed to the Year 7 area. You will then need to line up in the allocated area for Year 7s, but don’t worry as there will be lots of staff on hand to help you find your way.
You will then be taken in single file to your classroom where you will remain for the day with the exception of breaktime and lunchtime.
What time will I start and finish?
Gates will open at 7.30am and line up for Year 7 will start at 8.10am so students need to arrive in the Academy before this. If you are early you will need to wait outside.
*Note enrichment and early finish Friday for staff CPD
What will happen at break and lunchtime?
We are pleased that for the first day only we will provide all students with lunch. We do suggest that you bring an additional bottle of water or juice (not fizzy drinks) in case the weather continues to be very warm.
From Tuesday 5 September, you will be able to purchase a hot meal at lunchtime so please ensure your ParentPay account is kept topped up. Students who are in receipt of free school meals will receive their lunch in the normal way. Please also feel free to bring a packed lunch and a bottle of water if preferred.
Year 7 students will have a 20 minute mid-morning break and a 45 minute lunch time break.
