In a small school community like Castle Park School there are a few specific rules which every pupil must follow to create an atmosphere where everyone can develop to his or her full potential. We insist on high standards of behaviour at all times. Pupils are expected to behave with common sense, consideration and reason. There is a comprehensive Code of Conduct that emphasises personal responsibility and takes a formative approach to personal development. This is published in the annual Parent and Pupil Handbook.

Based on our interdenominational Christian ethos, the key guiding principles for children are:

• Always to treat others as you would like them to treat you.
• Be kind, polite and respectful towards others.

The Form Teacher is initially responsible for the discipline and general welfare of the children in their class in addition to their teaching responsibilities. It is the Form Teacher with whom parents should make initial contact regarding any problems in school. The Form Teacher is supported in this role by the Deputy Head who co-ordinates all aspects of pastoral care. Whole school issues such as anti-bullying, safety in school and the community are highlighted in assemblies, house meetings and in the classroom. There are occasional visits from the local Garda and allied professionals.

The Prep Department has a whole school assembly four mornings per week. Once a week the Church of Ireland Rector from Patrick’s Church of Ireland Dalkey, leads an assembly as does the Parish Priest from the Church of the Assumption, Dalkey.

The Montessori Department has two whole department assemblies each week. On Monday, the Head of Montessori leads the department and introduces the theme of the week to the younger children of the school. Every Tuesday the Headmaster leads an assembly, which allows time for notable achievements to be recognised and a story to be read.

The House System

Every pupil in the Prep School is enrolled in one of four Houses: Edwardes, Pringle, Toone or Ross. The House system gives children a strong link with children from other Forms. There is a House teacher in charge of each House and a House captain and vice-captain are appointed from pupils in the Sixth Form.

House points are awarded for academic performance, effort, general good behaviour and service to the School. Awards in the form of certificates are received by the pupils for achieving a certain number of house points. Points are also awarded for inter-house sports and music events. The House with the most number of points at the end of each term is rewarded with a party and all the members of the winning House for the year and the senior leavers are invited to a special celebration at the end of the Summer Term.