AT SCHOOL

 

Christian Faith

You may not be fully aware of just what we mean when we talk about Christian faith. We have a policy of accepting some students who do not share our commitment to Christ or our practices. Yet because these things are of critical importance - not just to us, but to the goals of the College and the ways we seek to fulfil those goals - we hope you will take some time to study and understand the nature of our faith. This will become progressively apparent as you work through the year’s course.  If you do not regularly attend a Christian Church we would strongly recommend that you begin. If you are looking for a suitable Church to attend do talk to us and we will help find one that suits.

 

Moral Conduct

An individual student’s conduct has a direct impact on his own studies and learning, on other students, and on the public name of the school. Your conduct, within the school and in the wider community, is critical to a happy and beneficial relationship with the College.

 

Students are expected to conduct themselves within the framework of God’s moral law. The Ten Commandments (in Exodus 20) clearly enunciate the standards God calls us to. God’s law provides a liberating guide to a happy and good way of life when its use is based on faith in Jesus Christ. However, students who display a disregard for these standards set themselves against the courses of instruction of the College. In the context of our modern society the following standards of moral conduct need to be specifically mentioned as ones on which the College will not compromise, and are likely to lead to suspension or expulsion:

• The use of illegal substances including drugs, or the abuse of substances such as solvents

• The breaking of or disregard for the sanctity of the marriage relationship, including sexual relations of any sort outside of marriage

• The use of profane, impure or coarse language

• The use at school or bringing to school of alcohol or tobacco in any form

• Plagiarism

 

School Rules

Our school rules are displayed in every classroom.  Copies can be supplied on request.

 

ICT: Information Technology & Communications

All pupils have access to a chromebook as required, and have access to age-appropriate computing and internet facilities.  Pupils are required to sign and abide by a Cybersafety Contract that covers issues of appropriate and safe use.  All computer use takes place in “public” spaces in the school where use is observed and monitored by other students and staff.  Students may bring their own lap-tops and tablets to school for school use, providing they always comply with their Cybersafety Contract. Cell phones must be switched off before arrival at school and will be stored until the end of the school day.  All ICT equipment brought to school, used at school, or switched on at school, is subject to our inspection and auditing.  At our discretion equipment may be seized and held pending further examination and discussion with parents if inappropriate or unsafe use is suspected or established.  Our Cybersafety Contracts and internet safety policy are available on request.

 

Parties at School

Parties are not permitted at school.  We know it is fun to have a birthday cake, special food or some sweets to school to share with classmates, but because it can create pressures on other families and pose health issues for some children, we have to ask that you don’t.

 

Use of School Phones

School phones are kept busy on school business.  Pupils are not normally allowed to use school phones, and they cannot be called to the phone to speak to callers.   We can take messages for pupils if it is urgent, and of course in emergencies we will assist pupils to make any necessary phone calls.

 

Personal Property

All children’s personal property and clothing should be named.  If it can be lost it will be if it hasn’t got a name on it! We have adequate recreational play areas – and children can bring suitable play or sports equipment to school providing they use it sensibly and accept the risk of damage.

 

Shoes Off Inside

Pupils are required to remove shoes at the doors to classrooms.   Racks are provided for shoes which are to be stored neatly.  Students may wear slippers or designated "inside shoes" inside, or socks; but bare feet are not permitted.

 

Medicines at School

As a normal rule you may not bring medications to school – that includes cough lollies.  Teachers are not permitted to administer or supervise the administration of medicines to you unless arranged beforehand as explained below.  On the advice of medical authorities, Aspirin will not be administered to children at school.   Medications will only be permitted at school for chronic illnesses or conditions.  If you are recovering from infections or illness you may not bring medications to school to complete treatment:  as a general rule you should not return to school until you have either completed any course of treatment or can take required medications at times you are not at school.

 

Chronic Illnesses

If you are suffering from with chronic illnesses you may have medications at school and have access to them.  This applies for such conditions as asthma, acute allergies or long-term illness.   In such cases:

• Arrangements must be approved before any medicines are brought to school

• Medications must be labelled with your name and dosage required

• Parents must sign our standard indemnity form and provide written advice detailing the condition and dosages to be administered

• Medications must be kept in a designated kit in your classroom and carried on field trips

• No medications can be kept in children’s bags or desks

• Medications are to be taken under the oversight of a staff member

 

Sun Safety

Children are required to have approved school uniform sunhats with them in Term 1 & 4, and to use them whenever outside in those terms.  We provide numerous shaded areas.