WWW Policies

The safety and wellbeing of our students is our highest priority during Week Without Walls. Each experience is carefully planned, risk-assessed, and supported by robust systems to ensure students are well cared for at all times.

Comprehensive Emergency Planning

Every expedition operates under a Comprehensive Emergency Action Plan (EAP).

• The DBIS school EAP is in place for all trips

• This is aligned with and integrated into each external provider’s own EAP

• Clear communication and response procedures are established before departure

Medical Preparedness

• Appropriate medical facilities are identified in advance for every expedition location

• Staff are briefed on access routes and emergency procedures

• Student medical information is reviewed prior to departure to support individual needs

Trained and Experienced Staff

• All expedition leaders and supervising staff are trained in first aid, safeguarding, and emergency response procedures

• Staffing ratios are carefully planned to ensure close supervision and support throughout the experience

24/7 School Support

• A DBIS Duty Manager is available 24 hours a day while trips are underway

• Senior leadership remains on call to support staff in the field and to liaise with families if required

Proactive Risk Management

• All activities, transport arrangements, and accommodation are subject to detailed risk assessments

• Risks are reviewed and mitigated through planning, staff training, and ongoing monitoring during the trip

Through these measures, DBIS ensures that Week Without Walls experiences are not only enriching and challenging, but also safe, well-managed, and fully supported.

Clear and reliable communication is an essential part of keeping students safe and families informed during Week Without Walls. DBIS has established dedicated communication channels to ensure the right support is available at the right time.

Emergency Contact

For urgent or emergency situations, families can contact the school at any time during the trip:

• DBIS Duty Manager / Emergency Phone:
  +852 9291 9640

This number is monitored 24/7 while expeditions are underway and connects families directly with senior staff who can provide immediate support.

General Enquiries

For non-urgent questions or general enquiries during the week, families are asked to contact:

• DBIS Main Office:
  +852 2987 7331

This helps ensure that emergency lines remain clear while still providing families with timely assistance.

Families will also be informed if specific expeditions have additional communication guidelines. DBIS appreciates your cooperation in using the appropriate channel so we can support all students effectively.

Week Without Walls is designed to encourage independence, collaboration, reflection, and meaningful engagement with people and place. To support these goals, mobile phone use is managed carefully and in line with students’ age and developmental stage.

Years 7–8: No Mobile Phones

• Students in Years 7 and 8 are not permitted to bring mobile phones on Week Without Walls experiences.

• This supports student wellbeing, encourages full engagement in activities, and helps students develop independence.

• Staff will manage all necessary communication with families through the school’s established channels.

Year 9: Guided and Controlled Use

• Year 9 students may bring mobile phones, however use is guided and controlled by staff.

• Phones may be permitted at specific times and for defined purposes, such as:

  • Communicating with family at agreed times

  • Taking photographs

  • Supporting learning or reflection activities

• Phones will not be accessible throughout the day and may be collected and stored by staff when not in use.

Years 10–13: Responsible Use When Appropriate

• Students in Years 10–13 may use mobile phones when appropriate and with staff approval.

• Expectations are aligned with expedition contexts, safety requirements, and learning goals.

• Use may be restricted during activities, travel, or at times when phones could impact safety, focus, or group dynamics.

General Expectations

Across all year groups:

• Mobile phones must be used responsibly and respectfully.

• Inappropriate use may result in phones being confiscated for a period determined by staff.

• DBIS is not responsible for loss or damage to personal devices brought on trips.

By managing mobile phone use in this way, DBIS aims to balance safety and communication with the benefits of immersion, connection, and personal growth that Week Without Walls provides.

Week Without Walls is designed to foster student independence, resilience, and meaningful engagement in shared experiences. To support the safety, wellbeing, and educational purpose of the program, clear boundaries around parent involvement are essential.

Parent Attendance

• Parents and guardians are not permitted to attend, join, or visit any Week Without Walls expedition or activity.

• This includes visiting accommodation sites, activity locations, or meeting groups during travel.

• Allowing parent attendance can compromise supervision, risk management procedures, and the overall group experience.

Communication with Families

• All necessary communication with families will be managed through DBIS staff using the school’s established communication channels.

• In the event of illness, emergency, or any situation requiring parental involvement, the school will contact families promptly.

Exceptional Circumstances

• Any exceptions to this policy will be considered only in exceptional circumstances and at the discretion of the school’s Senior Leadership Team.

• Families will be contacted directly by the school if an exception is required.

DBIS appreciates the partnership and trust of families in supporting these boundaries, which are in place to ensure Week Without Walls remains a safe, positive, and developmentally appropriate experience for all students.