The Head Family Charter
This charter sets out the rights and standards to be observed by members of the family, with the aim of providing a harmonious relationship between all members of the family.
1
Parents will provide free board and lodging for all members of the family whilst they are in full-time education, and are in the receipt of no regular income. This includes heating; hot water for personal hygiene; food, to be eaten at regular mealtimes, normally with the rest of the family; and occasional snacks, which may be consumed in the kitchen or dining room at reasonable hours, and not after 10.30 pm. Anyone who knows they will not be at home for a particular meal, or will be late, should give as much notice as possible.2
Parents will fund education expenses, up to a maximum of £4000 for academic education, or £1500 for physical education (including horse riding) but not both.3
Children will be provided with a monthly allowance, appropriate for age, for the purchase of clothing and incidental expenses. This does not usually include bus fares and most transport costs will be met by parents.4
Dirty clothes will be washed, dried and returned to owners. Bed linen and towels will also be washed and dried when required.5
Children are expected to do their share of the house cleaning, for which they will be paid. Any member of the family who partakes in an activity which causes an unreasonable amount of dust or debris should clear up their own mess. Other duties, such as laying and clearing the table, loading and unloading the dishwasher, should be done voluntarily.6
All children may have their own door key and come and go as they please provided that they always inform a parent where they are going, and when they expect to return. Children are normally expected to be home by 10.30 pm, unless prior arrangements have been made to stay elsewhere overnight, but may exceptionally stay out until midnight on special occasions.7
The quiet period between 11 pm and 7 am should be respected by all members of the family to allow everyone a minimum of eight hours sleep. (No noise, for example, loud talking, playing music or television loudly). This period should be spent in ones own bedroom, except for visits to the bathroom, and exceptionally to the kitchen for a drink of water or medication.8
These rights and standards may be amended at any time as appropriate, and suggestions are welcome from any member of the family.