The Headmaster is ultimately responsible for the discipline and care of all people in the school but there are many key people who help him in this task.  Along with the Director of Studies and Head of Boarding and Pastoral Care, Houseparents and Matrons and all the Form Tutors are on hand to ensure the general happiness and well being of all our pupils at Ashdown.

The school is vertically divided into four Patrols (Hippos, Rhinos, Elephants and Kangs!) and two members of staff are in charge of each Patrol.  The seniors in each of these Patrols are encouraged to help the younger ones and identify with them. 

There are two experienced Senior Matrons and a Nursing Sister, and three resident Assistant Matrons in the school.  The doctor comes regularly and whenever required, and there are three major hospitals within twenty miles.  Food is especially important to children of this age and we aim to maintain a high standard at all times.  Staff and pupils eat together except for High Tea.  All matters of health and domestic arrangements come under the personal supervision of the Headmaster's wife.

Learning to work, play and live together is one of the most rewarding things in a boarding school.  To do it successfully the school must be absolutely clear in its policy: bullying of any sort is not tolerated, and a spirit of friendship and respect between all age groups is continually fostered. In addition to a forty minute Service on Sundays in our own chapel, there is a ten minute assembly at the start of every day attended by all children and members of the teaching staff.  Services are designed so that children of all denominations are able to take an active part in them.