Answers to frequently asked questions about boarding at Wilson’s Hospital School.
If you have further questions, please contact the Boarding Team at boarding@whs.ie.
Uniforms & Books
Where/when do I get my uniform?
You need to order the school uniform from Uniformity — details will be in your acceptance email. Uniformity can deliver to the school in August so it will be ready on arrival. PE/sports uniform is also ordered through Uniformity. For questions about PE uniform, contact cdraper@whs.ie.
Where/when do I get my books?
Mrs Mary Kenny manages the book scheme and can be contacted at mkenny@whs.ie
Arrival & Settling In
Can I arrive early to look at the school?
Please only arrive within the designated times given to you for arrival day. Other visits must be by appointment. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Can I help my child settle into their dorm?
We encourage students to unpack together with peers to build independence and friendships. Parents of first years may accompany them, if they wish (Covid restrictions may apply).
Shopping & Supplies
Do I need bed sheets?
Duvets and pillows are provided for overseas students, but many choose to buy their own sheets once in Ireland. We recommend at least two sets of bed linen. Mullingar has shops (e.g., Primark) where students often purchase towels, sheets and hygiene products on arrival.
Can I buy supplies when I get to Ireland?
Yes — many students visit Mullingar on their arrival day to buy items they couldn’t fit in their suitcase. Examples include Fairgreen Shopping Centre and Harbour Place Shopping Centre.
Devices & Communication
Can my child bring a tablet or laptop?
Yes, but it is not necessary. Devices are the pupil’s responsibility; the school accepts no liability for loss or damage. School computers are available if needed.
Does my child need an Irish SIM card/phone?
Not necessary. Many pupils use WhatsApp and similar platforms for communication without needing an Irish number. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
When can I contact my child?
Pupils do not have access to phones during school or evening study. They may use phones before 9:00am and from 4:00pm–6:30pm (Irish time). For urgent contact, please call the school directly at +353 44 937 1115.
School Life
What subjects can my child choose?
Some subjects are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and are not guaranteed. If a class is full, an alternative will be offered. Subject choices are provided before the school year begins. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
What extra-curricular activities can my child choose?
Students can try different sports and activities once they arrive and decide what they prefer — choices do not need to be made in advance.
What should I pack?
Please see the Packing List page for recommended items to bring and not bring.
What if my child needs something from a shop?
Boarding staff will arrange for students to go to the shops or obtain items on their behalf. Pupils also usually have opportunity to visit shops at weekends.
Money & Documents
Can I send money to my child?
No. From September 2024, the Accounts Office no longer handles cash for students for security reasons. Parents should send money via Revolut, N26 or a similar service.
Where will my child put their passport?
The school can keep passports safe and return them the evening before travel. Some students prefer to keep passports with host families.
Travel & Returns
What are the collection and drop-off times?
Friday evening collection is strictly 3:45pm–4:45pm. Sunday evening drop-off is strictly 5:30pm–8:30pm. Please adhere to these times.
When should I book flights?
Follow the guidelines in the school calendar. A free bus service to Dublin Airport departs at 6:30am on the last day of term — book flights for 9:30am onwards where possible. Flights arriving earlier or later may require private transport at a cost of €150 per person.
Health & Wellbeing
What happens if my child gets Covid while at school?
Students should follow current government and health guidelines, which currently include self-isolating for up to three days based on vaccination status. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
My child has medication/medical conditions — what should we do?
Complete the medical form sent with your acceptance email. Send copies of prescriptions (preferably in English) and clearly label medication with the pupil’s name and dosage. Contact the school nurse at nursing@whs.ie for any concerns.
What if my child needs to attend hospital?
The school will inform you immediately and accompany the pupil to hospital if required. All students are advised to hold a European Health Insurance Card.
My child is worried about something — who can they contact?
Encourage your child to speak with any member of staff if they have concerns — the boarding team will ensure the issue is addressed promptly.
Daily Life
Can my child do laundry?
Yes. Laundry is done weekly and new students will be shown where and when to bring laundry. Please ensure all items are clearly labelled with the student’s name.
Can my child leave the school?
If a pupil needs to leave the school, this must be clarified via email with staff at boarding@whs.ie, including details of where, when and with whom they will go and return.