Abingdon Boarders' Handbook

How will I be able to contact home? The Internet In each house library you will have access to desktop Mac computers on which you can access the Internet. There is also wireless  access to the internet throughout the house. However, you will not be allowed to set up your own private Internet access. We  recognise that the internet is a wonderful resource as a means of communication and a source of information. We encourage you to  make responsible and safe use of it. You will have regular education about how to get the best out of the internet and how to avoid the  potential dangers. You will also need to read and agree to our acceptable use policy before you are allowed on the school network and  we expect you to be sensible and sensitive towards others when you are using the internet.  Email You will be keen to stay in touch with your family and friends outside school and the school will provide you with your own gmail  account. Your teachers will also communicate with you through this account so it is really important that you check it regularly and use  it for your schoolwork. Of course you will also be able to access and use your own personal accounts as well.  Skype You will be able to use Skype while in each house. You can use the school computers in your house or the wireless network to Skype  family and friends.  Telephones Each house has a pay phone that you will be able to use. Your Housemaster will give you the number so that your parents can call you  on it. Most boarders also have their own mobile phone. We believe it is a very important communication device so that you can stay in  touch with your friends and family. You will also find it useful for contacting the member of staff who is on duty in your house. Each  house has a mobile number, which you can on each house welcome page. You will be given the number to store in your phone on your  first day in house. In addition, you will need to give your number to your Housemaster so that they have a record and a means of  contacting you in an emergency. It is important that you remember that mobile phones are expensive and often prized personal  possessions. Therefore you should take care to look after your mobile phone. We suggest that you keep it in your lockable drawer or  safe when you don’t need to have it on you.  10