ORAN PARK ANGLICAN COLLEGE. Parent & Student Handbook Excellence Wisdom Service. A Campus of Thomas Hassall Anglican College

Transcription

1 ORAN PARK ANGLICAN COLLEGE Parent & Student Handbook 2015 Excellence Wisdom Service

2 Contents Welcome 4 Principal s Remarks 5 About The College 6 What We Believe 6 What We Value 7 Student Exit Outcomes 7 College Characteristics 8 The Hassall & Cobbity Connection 9 The Story Behind Oran Park 10 College Governance 11 College Leadership & Staff Structure 12 Staff Directory 13 Quick Staff Reference Guide 14 Health & Safety, Welfare & Discipline 15 The College Prayer 15 Welfare and Discipline 16 Discipline 16 Associated Rules 17 Prohibited Items 17 Mobile Phones - Junior School 17 Mobile Devices - Senior School 17 Acceptable Use of Mobile Devices: 17 Mobile devices may be used: 17 Unacceptable Use of Mobile Devices: 18 Mobile devices may not be used: 18 Personal Vilification 18 Untidy Uniform 18 Language 18 Environmental Pollution 19 Damaging and Defacing Property 19 Misbehaviour on Camps, Excursions and Sporting Events 19 Touching Other Students 19 Bringing the College into Disrepute 19 Inappropriate Behaviour on Buses and Trains 19 Consequences of Failure to Follow The Student Code of Behaviour 20 Discipline Code for Years K 6 20 Lunchtime Detention (Years K 6) 20 Behaviour Card 20 Discipline Code for Years Red Card (Years 7 12) 20 Lunch Detention (Years 7-12) 21 After-College Detention 21 In-College Suspension 21 Suspension 21 Dismissal (directed withdrawal from College) 22 Suspensions 22 Harassment and Bullying 22 Child Care & Protection 24 Health and Medical Matters 25 Allergies and Anaphylaxis 25 Administering Student Medication 25 First Aid and Related Matters 26 Calling an Ambulance 26 Childhood Diseases 26 Immunisation 26 Curriculum 27 Curriculum 27 The Components of the Curriculum 27 Christian Studies 27 Kindergarten Year 6 27 Parent Information Evenings 28 Assessment of Student Achievement 29 Plagiarism and Cheating 29 Copyright 29 Reporting to Parents 29 Students Requiring Additional Assistance 29 Co-Curricula Activities 30 Duke of Edinburgh s Award Scheme 30 Educational Field Trips and Camps 30 College Christian Groups 30 Junior Cru (Years 3-6) and Senior Cru Club (Years 7-12) 30 Textbooks 31 Junior School 31 Senior School 31 Damaged textbooks/books 31 Sport 32 Sport Prep Year 2 32 Sport Years Weekly Sport for Students in Years 7 and Representative Sports 33 NASSA Sport (New Anglican Schools Sports Association) 33 AICES Sport (Association of Independent Co- Educational Schools) 33 CIS Sport (Combined Independent Schools) 33 Thomas Hassall Representative Uniforms 33 Excellence Wisdom Service Page 2

3 Contents The College Uniform 34 The Uniform Code 34 Hats 34 Footwear 35 Hair 35 Scarves 35 Jewellery 35 Purchasing Of The Uniform 36 The College Backpack 36 Computer Bag 36 Library Bag 36 Student Diaries for Senior School Students 36 P&F Clothing Pool 36 Uniform Items 37 Preparatory 37 Kindergarten to Year 6 37 Years 7, 8, 9 and College Shoes 39 College Life 40 Routines 40 Times 40 Lesson Times 40 Attendance and Absences 40 Leave During Term Time For Elite Sport or Employment in the Entertainment/Hospitality Industry 40 Leaving the College during the Day 41 Playground Supervision 41 Morning Supervision 41 Money Matters 41 Money Brought to College 41 Student Banking 41 Scholastic Book Club 41 Fundraising 41 Property Matters 42 Lost Property 42 Parking on the Site 42 Site Security During Lesson Time 42 Parent s use of Amenities 42 Travel Matters 42 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) 42 Students travelling on College or Hire Buses 42 Students travelling home on buses 43 Parents Bringing Children to College in the Morning 43 Picking Up Children In The Afternoon - Jnr School 43 Picking Up Children In The Afternoon - Snr School 43 After College Pickup 43 Students who walk or ride their bike to College 43 Food Matters 44 Bringing Food to College 44 The College Canteen 44 Other Matters 44 After College Care 44 Preparatory Classes 44 Communications 45 Official Photographs 45 Promotional and Media 45 Privacy 45 Office Hours 45 Contacting teachers 45 Complaints and Compliments 45 Student Diaries 45 Change in Details 46 THE LIFE 46 Parent Partnership 46 Pastoral Care 47 Pastoral Care Class 47 Counselling 47 Giving to Others 47 Contact with Parents 47 Recognising Student Achievement 48 Sporting Achievement 48 Celebration and Awards Evening 48 Notes 49 Excellence Wisdom Service Page 3

4 Welcome Welcome to the learning community that is Oran Park Anglican College. Significant relationships are developed during school years, many will last a life-time. These relationships include the children and young people themselves, but also their families and the staff. Vital communities result in life-long relationships. Our vision is that it is learning that characterises our community and we strive to do all we can to enhance that. Academics are vital but so too are social skills, welfare and support for individuals during tough times, sporting ability, cultural and artistic development and also grounding in vital personal Christian faith. All this contributes to well-rounded socially aware and responsible young people ready to make their way serving others and serving God. This Handbook contains the knowledge of the way we do things at Oran Park Anglican College and will be a reminder to returning students and an introduction to newcomers. The culture of College life is based on common understandings (or rules) and although we are tempted to resist them and do our own thing, part of maturity is accepting the common good and our role in supporting it and contributing to it. The College continues to grow numerically but our primary concern is the individual student and their progress in many areas and through many stages. All the College s resources of buildings, teaching staff, special cultural, sporting and Christian education experiences are for the students to take up, enquire into for themselves and grow as a result. May I wish you and your family well in your involvement with our learning community this year and invite you to change as a result. I pray that out of His glorious riches (God the Father) may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Ephesians 3: Yours faithfully, Dr Geoff Huard Chairman, College Council Excellence Wisdom Service Page 4

5 Principal s Remarks We commence each year with a sense of excitement about where God will continue to lead and guide our College. The College Council and Senior Staff will be working in collaboration on a strategic plan to take us forward into the years ahead. Our vision is Growing and nurturing excellence, wisdom and service. We believe that we are strategically placed in Sydney s emerging South West to achieve our vision and make a difference. Our mission Learning to Live; Living to Serve; Honouring Christ remains constant. To achieve our mission and vision we need to further develop and grow leaders within our college community. Leaders are required to: Challenge the process by facilitating change that moves towards opportunities Inspire a shared vision by committing and engaging others Enable others to act by building trust that leads to serving others Model THE LIFE by establishing unity through setting an example Encourage the heart by acknowledging success and celebrating it Our College is a learning community that seeks to engage staff, students, parents/carers and the local community. We invite and encourage you to participate in College life and attend the various events that are held throughout the year. As we look to the future direction of our College we will continue to provide a safe, caring and dynamic learning community for our students. This will require maintaining some common rules and regulations that guide our living and learning together. This Handbook contains important information designed to help the College staff community to maintain these standards. Please read it through in its entirety and refer to it often. We commit our College to the glory and honour of God. We pray that God will pour His blessings upon our College community and that He will enable us to follow Him in obedience. We ask God to direct our ways so that we will grow in excellence and wisdom in all things and serve in love. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths. Proverbs 3: 5-6 Ross Whelan College Principal Excellence Wisdom Service Page 5

6 ABOUT THE COLLEGE Welcome to Oran Park Anglican College. We are strategically located in the centre of what is fast becoming a thriving township. Our master plan has a vision for engaging with the community. Learning occurs in air-conditioned buildings and the College has a range of specialist facilities and resources. Our College is committed to the achievement of quality learning outcomes. The College operates under the umbrella of the Sydney Anglican Schools Corporation and is a Campus of Thomas Hassall Anglican College. Oran Park Anglican College began operation in Term 1, 2012 and is currently catering from Prep to Year 8, It is envisaged that it will quickly grow towards a Prep to Year 12 learning community accommodating around 1000 students. We describe ourselves as a learning community because we believe that we are all learners - teachers, students and parents - learning from and with each other. We are a community in which parents, teachers and support staff work in partnership with each other to advance the learning and growth of the children. Our vision is Growing and Nurturing Excellence, Wisdom and Service. Our motto is of greater worth than gold signifying the value we place on faith in the Lord Jesus, on our students as they grow and on our learning in every program. WHAT WE BELIEVE This College operates under the banner of the Sydney Anglican Schools Corporation. As an Anglican College within the Diocese of Sydney, our programs, curriculum, approach to pastoral care and discipline are informed and underpinned by the values, principles and truths contained in the Bible. What we believe influences what we do. Our ethos is therefore both Christian and Anglican. Our Christian Studies Program, which is taught from Prep to Year 12, is designed to help students to understand Christianity so that as they mature they can make an informed assessment of its relevance to their life. All members of the staff are personally committed to living by the beliefs and principles contained in the following statement: The fundamental truths of Christianity are contained in the Bible. The Bible declares that there is one God, who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The purpose of the Bible is to bring people to salvation by trusting in Jesus Christ and to teach people the right way to live, so that they may be fully equipped for every good thing that God wants them to do. Jesus Christ was in very nature God, was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, was crucified, dead and buried. He rose again on the third day and will one day come again to judge the living and the dead. Only by faith in Jesus Christ can people be saved from the consequences of their sin, have assurance of forgiveness, the Holy Spirit s presence in their lives, and eternal life. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 6

7 WHAT WE VALUE At the heart of the culture of the College are our values. Each of them is derived from a biblical view of the world in which there is such a thing as absolute truth. We believe that these values are fundamental to the future of our society. We assume that you and your family share these values with us. We teach these values and we hope that our behaviour at all times commends them to our students. Positivity Understanding Love Trust Perseverance Joy Excellence Kindness Patience Truth Commitment Respect Safety Cooperativeness Humility Justice Encouragement Thoughtfulness Gratitude Responsibility Self control STUDENT EXIT OUTCOMES By the time students leave the College it is expected that they will have: Received a high quality and well-rounded education Experienced success in learning and optimised their potential Recognised that they are accepted and valued for who and what they are Acquired the skills and desire to be learners for the rest of their life Been equipped to make a significant positive contribution to society Acquired a mature understanding of the Christian faith and its implications for daily living and Internalised the meaning of living with a faith of greater worth than gold. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 7

8 COLLEGE CHARACTERISTICS Oran Park Anglican College was established in 2012 and is a campus of at Middleton Grange which was established in Families who have applied for a place for their child in the College say they were influenced by one or more other families they knew who had made a similar decision a year or two earlier. We hope that you will follow their example. Different features appeal to different families. Some families are attracted by the P 12 continuum: the same values for 13 or 14 years and a known cohort of students and parents for the duration of their child s schooling. Others are attracted by: the explicit emphasis on values the smart, functional and distinctive uniform the care and professionalism of the staff the academic performance of students on internal assessments as well as on national and state-wide tests the positive attitude of most students towards learning the range of extra-curricular activities the opportunities for students to learn from the Bible the opportunities for students to express their gratitude the nurturing of students talents and interests Express your satisfaction by commending the College to other parents. Some are impressed by the care and professionalism displayed to students by the College staff: whether it be the Office, the grounds staff, a teacher, a co-ordinator or members of the senior leadership team. The College will be judged by the results achieved by its students in external examinations such as the Higher School Certificate, but equal store will be placed on the attitudes which students acquire towards learning, the development of their individual talents, the attitude they adopt towards other people and the character that is formed bit by bit over their years of learning in the College. This is a happy and safe College. Its reputation now and in the future is very much dependent on each of its students, their parents and siblings, the staff and our many friends in the wider community. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 8

9 THE HASSALL & COBBITY CONNECTION Oran Park Anglican College is a campus of. The Reverend Thomas Hassall was born in England on May 29, He came to the young colony of New South Wales with his missionary parents, Rowland and Elizabeth Hassall, in Walk around Parramatta, even nearby Fairfield, and you will see streets, even schools named after Rowland. We are proud to be the only school in Australia named after Thomas. As a young man he established the first Sunday Schools in Australia, at which the children of the colony were taught reading, writing, maths and the Christian faith. In due course Thomas went back to England to gain his M.A. and train to be an Anglican clergyman. He returned to the colony and established a number of Anglican churches and schools. He gained the affectionate title of the galloping parson because of his mode of travel, especially between his home for thirty years at Denbigh near Cobbitty and Parramatta. He was thus a frequent traveller along the Cowpasture track. Throughout his life Thomas had a passion for teaching and learning, a warm heart for people, and a deep love for the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a staunch advocate of the connection between education and Christianity. Thomas died at Denbigh on 29 March, 1868 and he is buried beside the Anglican Church he built in Cobbitty. Since the establishment of in February 2000, we have established a strong relationship with members of the Hassall family, now scattered throughout Australia. We have been presented with a copy of the Hassall Family Coat of Arms. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 9

10 THE STORY BEHIND ORAN PARK During WWII, the Oran Park property was used by the military for the Narellan Military Camp and accommodated over 3,500 troops. The camp was used for training of troops, who mainly came there as recruits, were formed into units, then mobilised for active service in the Pacific conflict. The western part of the original estate adjacent to the intersection of Cobbitty Road and The Northern Road was the location of the Oran Park Motor Racing Circuit. The track hosted its first Australian Touring Car Championship in 1971, which was a battle between racing legends Bob Jane and Allan Moffat, and drew a crowd of over 30,000. The circuit was closed in January In 1983 Bill Cleary stated to the Macarthur Advertiser that his family had owned the property for 38 years. It was subsequently sold in the mid-1980s to Leppington Pastoral Company, owned by the Perich family. Leppington Pastoral Company is arguably one of the largest and most advanced dairy farms in Australia with a herd of 2000 cows. The Perich family also has interests in Narellan Town Centre, the Oran Park Town centre land release and fertilizers. Oran Park Town is being developed by Greenfields Development Company and Urban Growth (formerly Landcom). Oran Park is divided by the Northern Road and Cobbitty Road. The area has always had a rural character and in 2001 the population of the Oran Park-Catherine Field area was 1,470, yet within 20 years Oran Park is predicted to grow to 25,000. The Oran Park and Gregory Hills development is expected to house 33,000 people. The 2764 acre Oran Park precinct will include: Up to 7,500 new homes for nearly 25,000 new residents Around 18 hectares of employment land a 50,000 square metre town centre and two smaller neighbourhood centres 36 kilometres of walking and cycling paths, and more than 366 acres of open space. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 10

11 COLLEGE GOVERNANCE The College is governed by a Council. The College Council comprises eleven people appointed by and accountable to the Board of the Sydney Anglican Schools Corporation. The Council is chaired by Dr Geoff Huard, retired Anglican Archdeacon of the Georges River Region. The other members of the Council are: Mr Gary Angel Accountant; long-term resident of West Hoxton Rev David Clarke Minister at Hoxton Park Anglican Church Mr Neil Keast Retired Deputy Principal; historian, writer, story teller and educationalist Mrs Isobel Lin Mr Craig Moore Mrs Julie Pearson Mr Ernie Siddal Rev Jonothan Squire Mr Max Caddy Mr Ross Whelan Chemical engineer, mother of Junior School aged children and member of the Executive Committee - EQUIP Women. Long standing resident of Fairfield Psychologist and Senior Manager in the field of Human Services Accountant and resident of Liverpool. Board Member Sydney Anglican School Corporation. Retired businessman Minister at Harrington Park Anglican Church Representing the Sydney Anglican Schools Corporation College Principal The Council sets the direction for the College and monitors its progress. The educational leadership and management of Thomas Hassall and Oran Park Anglican Colleges is entrusted to the Principal. Although the Corporation has borrowed millions of dollars to establish and extend the College and the Corporation collects student fees and employs the staff, the College is very much an independent school. Student fees contribute to the repayment of the loans as well as the operating expenses including salaries and insurance. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 11

12 COLLEGE LEADERSHIP & STAFF STRUCTURE 2015 COLLEGE PRINCIPAL Mr R Whelan HEAD OF CAMPUS Mrs N Wilkins COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION Mr W Murray College Manager Mrs R Clark Finance & Admin Manager Mrs C Klomp Personal Assistant to Principal PROGRAM COORDINATORS Mrs C Grant Jnr School Curriculum Coordinator Mr S Moynan Snr School Program Coordinator Miss C Calderwood Counsellor Mrs M Humphreys Learning Support SUPPORT & ADMINISTRATION STAFF Mrs C Lynch Office Administrator Mrs K Darby Administration Assistant Mrs E Verbanaz Teacher s Aide/Admin Assistant Ms S Smith Prep Assistant CLASSROOM TEACHERS Mrs A Blake Junior School M A Chapman Junior School Miss K Edwards Junior School Mrs K Ferdarico Junior School Mrs J Finlay Junior School Mr D Hudson Junior School Miss A McCrohon Junior School Mrs M Watson Junior School Mrs R Worthington Junior School Mrs R Clisdell Mr S Coleby Mrs N Low Mr J Rees Senior School Senior School Senior School Senior School Excellence Wisdom Service Page 12

13 STAFF DIRECTORY Executive Staff College Principal Head of Campus Finance Manager College Manager Personal Assistant to the Principal Coordinators Junior School Curriculum Senior School Program Specialist Services Learning Support (P 8) College Counsellor Mr Ross Whelan Mr Naomi Wilkins Mrs Rebecca Clarke Mr Warren Murray Mrs Christine Klomp Mrs Cathy Grant Mr Steve Moynan Mrs Melinda Humphreys Miss Clare Calderwood Administration and Support Staff College Office Office Administrator Administration Assistant Teaching Support Staff Junior School Prep Assistant Maintenance Maintenance Supervisor Groundsman & Bus Driver Groundsman Mrs Corina Lynch Mrs Kylie Darby Ms Shantelle Smith Mr Scott Hobbins Mr Paul Ware Mr Gavin Daley Excellence Wisdom Service Page 13

14 QUICK STAFF REFERENCE GUIDE If you wish to contact the College call , or Who should you talk to or contact regarding: Contact Details For queries/info regarding: Childs progress in class Further assistance To compliment someone Spiritual matter P-6 class teacher or the 7-8 Class teacher or Pastoral Care Teacher Mrs Grant Junior School Mr Moynan Senior School Speak to them directly, write to them and include a copy for the Head of Campus Rev. Stuart Starr Paster of NewLife Anglican Church admin@opac.nsw.edu.au cgrant@opac.nsw.edu.au smoynan@opac.nsw.edu.au admin@thac.nsw.edu.au stuart@newlifeanglican.org.au Enrolments & Promotional Material Mrs Corina Lynch enrolments@opac.nsw.edu.au Help out in Junior School classrooms Mrs Grant cgrant@opac.nsw.edu.au Help with Senior School Mr Moynan smoynan@opac.nsw.edu.au Counsellor Miss Calderwood counsellor@opac.nsw.edu.au Financial Matters Mrs Clarke Finance & Administration Manager clarke.r@thac.nsw.edu.au Parent Portal Mrs Corina Lynch admin@opac.nsw.edu.au Any problem or issue Mrs Wilkins Head of Campus nwilkins@opac.nsw.edu.au Excellence Wisdom Service Page 14

15 HEALTH & SAFETY, WELFARE & DISCIPLINE In this section, you will find important information about: how we care for our students counselling and other support our expectations of students in terms of behaviour and presentation the disciplinary procedures followed in the College medical matters safety recognition of student achievement The College Prayer Dear God, our Heavenly Father, You are the source of all knowledge, life and love. We thank you for Jesus. We thank you for new life in Him. We thank you for our College. Please strengthen us to learn with enthusiasm Grow in maturity and serve in love. Help us to stand firm in the faith, which is of greater worth than gold, and honour you joyfully in all we do. Through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. Our College Prayer was written by Rev Jonathan Squire, Rev Stuart Starr and Mr Jonathan Beggs. One of the major reasons why students say they enjoy coming to the College each day is because they know that we care about and for each other. This care operates at a number of levels. At the professional level, we accept the duty of care which is at the core of what it means to be a teacher. We care about the students personal safety - physically, emotionally, morally and spiritually. We care about the sort of person they are becoming and so we take seriously the development of each student s character. We care about THE LIFE they relate to and interact with other students and where necessary implement programs to assist those who experience difficulties in this area. As a team of teaching and non-teaching staff, we try to provide an environment in which each student feels valued and is equipped to make a meaningful contribution to the life of the College. We encourage students in P 6 to build strong relationships with their peers and with their class teacher. They will get to know and become known by many other teachers and staff as they progress during the year. Students in Years 7-12 belong to a pastoral care group and spend time regularly discussing issues and strategies designed to assist them in better understanding themselves and others. We encourage each student to identify a staff member with whom they feel most comfortable should they experience problems and want to seek the advice of a caring adult in the College. Of course, they may also arrange to meet with the College Counsellor. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 15

16 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Discipline Our expectation is that all of our students will learn to exercise self-discipline and comply with the College s high standards of personal and community behaviour. We acknowledge that there will be occasions when a student transgresses this Student Code of Behaviour or the associated rules that are publicised from time to time. Students who are guilty of such transgression will be counselled and disciplined in a compassionate, fair, firm and consistent manner. The disciplinary measures used will vary according to the maturity of the student, his/her past behaviour, and the seriousness of the offence. When you enrolled your child at the College you signified your agreement with the principles embodied in the Student Code of Behaviour and the other rules which the College from time to time may determine. We expect every parent to support and encourage their child to comply with the following: At all times I will speak and behave towards others in a courteous, considerate and respectful manner. 1. Within the College I will: Behave sensibly Accept responsibility Seek opportunities to be kind and helpful to others Care for the College environment Always act in a way to keep the good name of the College 2. Within the classroom I will: Be positive and always do quality work Learn enthusiastically Complete every task to the best of my ability Work co-operatively Bring the correct equipment 3. When travelling to and from the College I will: Be considerate of others Obey all rules set by the bus company Wear the College uniform with pride Notice this is a positive statement. We explain to students what each statement means. Staff model these precepts. We expect parents to do the same. Please actively reinforce this Student Code of Behaviour at home. Such reinforcement is an essential component of the partnership between home and College in preparing children to be caring and responsible citizens. It should be noted that corporal punishment is not and must not be administered at the College nor should parents be encouraged to administer it to their children on our behalf. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 16

17 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Associated Rules From time to time students and parents are advised (through Assemblies and THE LIFE) of particular rules that have been introduced to make the College environment a safer, happier and more secure place. At the time of writing this Handbook, the following rules applied. Prohibited Items Students may not bring any of the following items to College: Knives and weapons Drugs or prescribed medicines Chewing and bubble gum Alcohol and cigarettes Liquid paper Trading cards Metal rulers Mobile Phones - Junior School Parents who wish their children to carry a mobile phone with them whilst travelling to and from College must send a letter to the Administration Office at the beginning of the College year to indicate this. The mobile phone must be handed in at the Office each day before 8:45 am for safe-keeping and may be collected at 3.20 pm. Phones that are not handed in will be confiscated. Students are not permitted to carry mobile phones on excursions, camps, sporting trips or at College carnivals and other events. Students who travel to and from College by car should not bring mobile phones to College at all. Mobile Devices - Senior School Acceptable Use of Mobile Devices: Mobile devices can be used for learning purposes at College or authorised College activities only when the supervising teacher gives permission for the following: Mobile devices may be used: to access applications (such as the calculator) or the internet in class for specified learning activities for photography or videoing for a specified learning activity. For example: photographing a science experiment to conduct a phone conversation for a specified learning activity to access internet based applications for a specified learning activity as an organiser in addition to the College diary but not as a replacement as a listening device for private study in study centre and study camp Content creation Excellence Wisdom Service Page 17

18 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Unacceptable Use of Mobile Devices: Mobile devices cannot be used at College or authorised College activities for the following: Mobile devices may not be used: to cause harm to students, staff and others or the College reputation before College, recess or at lunch in the playground for private texting to friends or relatives during College hours for private conversations. If parents need to be contacted by a student while at College the supervising teacher should be informed and arrangements made through the student receptionist in the College office for the student to access the College phone. For example: if a student needs to change arrangements for getting home. as a listening device in class or in the playground. This is for safety reasons and encouraging student interaction and conversation. Ear phones reduce students ability to hear activity around them and therefore may increase risk of harm to substitute the use of the College student diary. The College diary is used for written communication purposes between parents, staff and students to tether for the purpose of bypassing the College wireless internet access to download internet based applications that incur costs to link up a College computer / network system with their mobile device The mobile device owned by an individual that is brought to College or an authorised College activity is the sole responsibility of the student and not the College. Students and parents are required to sign a declaration that they have read and agree to be bound by the conditions in the Acceptable Use of Mobile Devices policy. A teacher may organise for the confiscation of mobile devices including phones, laptop computers, tablets (eg: ipad), cameras, ipods and MP3 players. Under confiscation the mobile device will be taken by the student to the student receptionist in administration office for storage. A student may be asked to provide access to their mobile device for the purposes of a College investigation into an alleged incident involving that student. Students must accept that misuse of mobile phones/devices will result in serious consequences. Personal Vilification It is unacceptable for a student to tease, ridicule or ostracise another person because of his/her physical appearance, colour, ethnicity or racial background. Untidy Uniform Students whose College Uniform (especially hats) becomes untidy will be issued with an Unsatisfactory Uniform note and warned that unless prompt action is taken to repair or replace the offending item, their parents will be called for an interview. Language The use of language which may be offensive to any other member of the College community is not permitted. This includes swearing, sexist and racist comments, put-downs and false accusations. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 18

19 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Environmental Pollution Students who pollute the College environment will receive an appropriate punishment. Damaging and Defacing Property Students who wilfully deface or damage College property will not only be punished but will be invoiced for its repair or replacement. This includes damaging/removing equipment such as fire extinguishers which is an offence under the NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 No. 4 Section 21 of The Act states: A person must not, intentionally or recklessly, interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health, safety and welfare under the Occupational, Health and Safety legislation. Penalties apply under this legislation and the College will also impose its own penalties, such as requesting that the cost(s) of replacing damaged/missing items are covered by any student/s implicated. Misbehaviour on Camps, Excursions and Sporting Events Students who misbehave on excursions, or while representing the College at sporting events will be barred from attending future outside events. Students who misbehave at camps will be sent home immediately. Touching Other Students Physical contact between students other than in the course of a supervised sporting activity is not allowed. This includes, but is not restricted to holding hands, hugging, kissing and hitting. Bringing the College into Disrepute Thanks to the combined efforts of parents, teachers and our students, the College enjoys a high standing in the wider community. This is increasingly important as our students seek part-time and full-time employment. Students, whose words, demeanour or actions bring the College into disrepute, will be disciplined quite severely. Inappropriate Behaviour on Buses and Trains There are strict guidelines for student behaviour on public transport issued by the Department of Transport. The College strongly supports these rules and wishes to make it clear that any student who misbehaves on their way to and from the College and who brings the name of the College into disrepute, will not only have their concession pass confiscated, but can expect to receive further punishment from the College. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 19

20 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Consequences of Failure to Follow The Student Code of Behaviour Discipline Code for Years K 6 Lunchtime Detention (Years K 6) Students are to report to the designated Junior School room for the first half of lunch. Students will reflect and write a note of explanation about why they have been placed on detention. A note will be sent home to parents indicating the reason for the detention. The note is to be signed and returned to the College. The types of actions which might result in this punishment could include: Fighting Disobedience Rudeness Swearing Continual unsafe/rough play Behaviour Card Students who have been placed on 3 or more detentions during a term will then be placed on a behaviour card for 1 week. They must attain an acceptable standard on their card to be allowed back in the playground without a card. A letter will be sent to their parents outlining their behaviour and the consequences of those behaviours. Students who have not attained an acceptable level on the behaviour card will be off the playground for the following week. They will only be allowed back onto the playground with a behaviour card. Parents will be informed and asked to attend the College for an interview with the Stage Co-ordinator and the Head of Junior School. Continual misbehaviour will result in further steps in the College discipline system, such as suspension and dismissal. These procedures would be discussed and deferred by the Head of Campus, the Principal and the appropriate Coordinator. Discipline Code for Years 7 12 In Years 7 12 the Disciplinary System is used in conjunction with the code used for Years K 6 as above. The following list indicates the actions which will generally apply to students who do not comply with the College Code of Behaviour: Red Card (Years 7 12) Students are required to report to the teacher in a designated classroom for the second half of lunch. The types of action which might result in this punishment could include:- Being late to class or College without a note Wearing incorrect uniform including wearing make up Dropping or leaving rubbish Repeated failure to do homework Out of bounds Use of mobile phone or technology device without permission At the Faculty Coordinator s or Executive Staff s discretion Three red cards will result in a lunch detention. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 20

21 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Lunch Detention (Years 7-12) Students are required to report to a designated place at 1pm on a designated day for their lunch detention. The types of actions which might result in this punishment could include: Receiving three red cards Talking in assembly Disobedience Lying Cheating Rudeness Swearing Unsafe/rough play Others at Coordinator s or Executive Staff discretion Three Lunch Detentions will result in an After College Detention. After-College Detention A minimum of 24 hours notice will be given to parents. The types of actions which might result in this punishment could include: Failure to report to do a Red Card Detention Disobedience or Rudeness Unsatisfactory behaviour at College or outside of College Three or more Lunch Detentions Other at Executive Staff Discretion Students may be put on a Yellow or RED Behaviour Card for 2 weeks at this stage or any stage depending on the nature of the incident. Two After-College Detentions may result in a form of Suspension. In-College Suspension The types of actions which might result in this punishment could include: Failure to attend After College Detention Rudeness Dishonesty Defacing College property At Executive Staff Discretion Two or more In-College Detentions may result in Suspension. Students may be put on a YELLOW OR RED Behaviour Card for 2 weeks at this stage or any stage depending on the nature of the incident/s. Suspension The kinds of actions which might result in this punishment could include: Smoking Truancy, leaving College grounds without permission Fighting, physical abuse, bullying of another student Rudeness to staff, foul language Forgery Serious misbehaviour in public Vandalism Multiple After-College Detentions may result in Suspension. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 21

22 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Dismissal (directed withdrawal from College) The kinds of actions which might result in this punishment could include: Possession or use of illicit drugs Possession or use of alcohol Repeated suspensions Breach of contract after a suspension Thieving at College Students may be moved to any level straight away depending on the serious nature of the incident. For more details on the Discipline Policy & Procedure, please refer to the student diary where red cards, lunch detentions, after-college detentions and merits are recorded. Suspensions In certain circumstances, the parents of students who break College rules, will be asked to meet (in business hours) with the Head of Campus and/or a Coordinator to discuss the student s behaviour. Where he considers it necessary or appropriate, the Principal may suspend a student from classes and the playground, and/or suspend the student from the College. Before a student may be re-admitted to the College following a suspension, a meeting involving the student, his/her parents and appropriate senior staff will be held. The Principal may impose various conditions on the re-admission of students who have been suspended. Generally, breaches of such re-entry conditions will result in the parents being asked to withdraw the student from the College. These rules are designed to instruct and teach the offending student as well as to protect and nurture the other students whose education may be affected by the behaviour and actions of the offender. Harassment and Bullying No group of people in our society is immune from emotional or physical harassment, this College included, but thankfully there have been very few instances of either so far. The College has instituted a range of strategies to counter harassment and bullying. These strategies are based on the following principles: Every member of the College has the right to be treated with dignity and respect and to enjoy positive relationships with all members of the College community. All members of the College community have the right to expect to be able to learn and teach in a safe and caring environment that promotes the virtues of self-worth and personal growth. Not everyone will be liked by everyone else but everyone can and should respect each other s personality differences and be polite and kind. Any behaviour which stops an individual from feeling comfortable in this shared environment is a form of bullying or harassment and is not condoned. We cannot assume that there will not be instances of bullying or harassment wherever children and young people gather. Children and young people therefore need to be taught not to tease, intimidate, harass, insult, spread rumours, exclude, stare at, hit, pinch, bite, spit upon, apply pressure or do anything to another individual of which they do not approve. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 22

23 WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE Staff must model in words and actions the Christian principles on which harmonious interpersonal relations are based. All reported incidents will be thoroughly investigated in an impartial and transparent manner following the procedures outlined in the College guidelines for Managing Compliments and Complaints. Teaching students how to relate properly to one another and how to handle instances of bullying is an ongoing process. Students need to be taught by their parents and teachers how to take initiative themselves to deal with problems of harassment without always having to rely on adult intervention. Students and staff who are the victims of any form of bullying or harassment must be supported. The perpetrators of bullying behaviour must accept responsibility for their behaviour. It should be noted that inappropriate use of any technology such as mobile phones, or the internet to intimidate, identify, bully or defame students, teachers or the College will be responded to seriously, including by show cause and the possibility of expulsion. Misuse of technology can lead to criminal charges of stalking, threats, assault and breaches of the Child Protection and Defamation laws. Students who are the victims of bullying or harassment must be encouraged to report instances of such behaviour to a teacher as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 23

24 CHILD CARE & PROTECTION Maintaining a safe and caring environment for all students and staff is a high priority. Parents attention is drawn to the appropriate College Guidelines published as appendices to this handbook. Each of these guidelines is supported by operational procedures. In conformity with the Child Protection legislation, all visitors to the College (including for this purpose all parents other than when they bring their children to College or come to collect them at the end of the day) are required to register their presence and departure at the Office. All visitors are issued with a current date Visitor s Badge. All voluntary helpers are required to obtain a Working with Children Clearance and be screened by the Commission. Students in all grades are taught a range of appropriate protective behaviours. They are encouraged to report instances where they feel their safety is at risk. Parents need to know that under NSW law, teachers are mandatory notifiers - which mean that if they are told or have reasonable grounds to suspect that a child is being abused, harmed or neglected, they must notify the Principal, who in turn must notify either the Police and/or the Department of Community Services. There are separate procedures the Principal must follow if an allegation is made about a staff member abusing a child. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 24

25 HEALTH AND MEDICAL MATTERS Allergies and Anaphylaxis The College is Allergy Aware as there are a number of children enrolled in the College who have particular allergies. Most of these can be managed without reference to other students. Several children, however, have a life-threatening allergy to nuts including peanut butter and Nutella and any snack products containing nuts. The consequences for these children through accidental contact with these products are of sufficient magnitude for us to ask that parents to not give their children lunches/snacks that contain nuts as part of the ingredients. More details about this will be explained at the Parent Information Evenings. We also have a number of students in the College who suffer from severe allergic reactions to certain perfumes and deodorants. Students are not to bring perfumes or deodorants to College. Administering Student Medication Parents who require their children to take medication during College hours must complete a medication form and provide the medication in the original container and hand to a staff member in the College office. This information will be kept on the student s file. A new form must be completed each year. The notification must include instructions about: the student s name and class, name and phone number of the doctor who prescribed the medication possible adverse effects details about administering times precise dispensing instructions including dose and route (oral, eye drops Left eye, etc) Medication will not be dispensed by the Office Staff unless the information and medication is provided. If you do not have access to a medication form, please write a letter of authority listing the details mentioned above. Non-prescription medications such as panadol and aspirin may not be administered to students without written consent forms signed by a parent. The College does not keep supplies of any medication. If students require this medication, parents are to provide it in the original packaging and place in a clearly marked envelope with the student s name and dosage details. All medications to be administered must be recorded as part of the student s Medical Information details which should be reviewed annually. It is the parents responsibility to maintain the currency of this information. Parents can update this information in Edumate via the Parent Portal. Teaching staff are not permitted to administer medications to students. It is the student s responsibility to report to the Office at the appropriate time to be given the medication. All student medication is kept in a secure place in the Administration Centre. Each time it is administered it is recorded in an Administration of Medications Register. Students are not permitted to administer medication themselves nor are they permitted to carry prescribed medication on their person or in their bag. The only exception to this is for asthma puffers for which students must have a permission note from their parents which will be attached to the students medication file. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 25

26 HEALTH AND MEDICAL MATTERS First Aid and Related Matters All staff have been trained in managing medical emergencies including CPR. Some have more advanced skills and qualifications in applying first aid. All staff receives regular updates relating to asthma, diabetes and allergic reaction including anaphylaxis. The College is well equipped with first aid kits and equipment and is a registered Asthma Friendly School with the Asthma Foundation. Students in who fall ill during the day or who have an accident must be referred to the Office for first aid attention. Parents will generally be contacted and asked to come and collect their child if the condition warrants such action. Students should not be sent to College on days when it is obvious they are ill. The College does not have space to accommodate nor staff to supervise sick students for more than a brief period of time. Calling an Ambulance There will be occasions when a student suffers an accident or becomes ill at College. If, in the opinion of the responsible staff member attending to the student, the College is not able to treat the injury or illness in an adequate manner, an ambulance will be called. Parents are expected to attend the College or related venue and accompany their child in the ambulance. Childhood Diseases At some time most children contract one of the common diseases of childhood. There are some standard practices recommended by the Health Department for the treatment of such diseases as Chicken Pox, German measles, Impetigo, Measles, Mumps and Whooping Cough. Details can be obtained from your local doctor or the website on Because we have some students whose well-being can be seriously affected by contact with students who contract any one of the diseases listed above, we ask that parents notify the College immediately their child shows the symptoms so that we can advise the appropriate families to keep their children at home. From time to time children become carriers of head lice. Anyone can catch head lice in places where many people work and play together because lice jump. Finding eggs and lice in your child s hair is often a very distressing experience for all concerned. Lice like clean hair and that is why they like to keep moving on! It pays to check your child s hair every day, especially if it is long. If you find head lice in your child s hair, please keep the child at home and commence treatment using an appropriate shampoo, or an appropriate treatment recommended by a chemist. Notify the College of this. When no more lice can be found, you may send your child back to College. If a teacher notices that a child has head lice (or a child reports such to the teacher), the parent will be contacted. We do not have staff or space in which to supervise such students therefore we ask parents to take the child home where appropriate treatment can be given immediately. Because having children in a class who have lice can become embarrassing for that child, we ask parents to keep the child at home until it is clear the problem has been resolved. Our concern in all this is twofold: for the child who is carrying the lice and the other children who are at risk of receiving them. Immunisation At the enrolment interview parents are required to certify that their child has been appropriately immunised or has been granted an exemption. Children in the latter category may have to be kept at home if there is an outbreak of particular illnesses in the College. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 26

27 CURRICULUM Curriculum The establishment of a P-12 College provides a great opportunity to create a learning community in which the traditional barriers between Infants, Junior School and Senior School need not exist. In constructing the curriculum, every attempt is being made to reduce the seams between the various levels of education and make the movement of students between the stages of learning as natural, smooth and flexible as possible. The NSW Board of Studies provides a curriculum based on Stages rather than Years. There are seven stages: Early Stage 1 (Prep and Kindergarten), Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2), Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4), Stage 3 (Years 5 and 6), Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8), Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) and Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12). This provides students with a more realistic time frame in which to achieve the prescribed learning outcomes. The Head of Campus, Mrs Wilkins, has responsibility for the arrangement, compliance and quality assurance of the curriculum. She is assisted by the Curriculum Coordinator, Mrs Grant. The Components of the Curriculum Christian Studies All students are taught Christian Studies. The aim of this program is to introduce students to the basic teachings of the Christian faith, to familiarize them with the Bible and its purposes, and to provide them with the knowledge and tools to decide for themselves how they should respond to God s love as expressed through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. From time to time the College conducts a series of seminars for parents to familiarize them with what and how their students are learning in Christian Studies. Senior students have the opportunity to undertake an intensive in Christian Leadership during Christian Studies time. The Christian worldview is also considered and applied to teaching and learning in other Key Learning Areas. Junior School - Preparatory to Year 6 Prep Curriculum The purpose of Prep is to prepare the children for Kindergarten. The program that is taught in Prep is based on the Early Stage One Curriculum. The children are introduced to all the Key Learning Areas covered in K 6 but the activities are age appropriate. The children acquire the skills needed for writing and also basic mathematical concepts. They learn to listen, follow directions, work as a group and to socialise with others. They learn through play, language activities as well as more formal activities. They learn basic sounds and sight words when they are ready. The program gradually becomes more challenging as the year progresses. Kindergarten Year 6 All students are engaged in learning in each of the Key Learning Areas each year. These are: English Christian Studies Creative Arts (incl. Music and Art) Mathematics Human Society and Personal Development/Health/PE Science and Technology Its Environment (HSIE) In addition, all students participate in a public speaking program and lessons on child protection. All students from Prep to Year 6 participate in a physical activity program for at least 2 hours per week and students from Year 3 participate in a structured sporting program. All students from Prep to Year 6 participate in a Weekly Assembly to which parents are invited to attend, especially when their sons/daughters are receiving an award or presenting items. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 27

28 CURRICULUM Senior School - Year 7-8 Stage 4 (Years 7-8) All students study the following subjects: English Christian Studies Visual Arts Mathematics History Design and Technology Science Geography Music Personal Development/Health/PE Within the English program each year there is a unit on Public Speaking designed to enhance the confidence of students in social situations. In Year 8, all students undertake a 100 hour course of a Language Other Than English (LOTE) as part of the Board of Studies requirements for the School Certificate. Parent Information Evenings All parents are encouraged to attend an information evening early in Term 1 at which their child s teacher or teachers will outline the outcomes they expect the students to achieve during the year. They also outline some of the activities they plan to use to help students to achieve these outcomes. Questions are invited Homework Homework is an important ingredient in children s learning. It reinforces what students have learned at College. It develops discipline. It enhances student enjoyment of learning. In Stages 1 to 3 at least, it affords parents an opportunity to work closely with their children on their learning tasks. At the beginning of the year, students will be told by their teacher/s what their approach will be to the setting and marking of homework and how much time it should take them to do it. This information will also be communicated to parents, either through an Information Evening or letter. Parents of students who have few after-college sporting, music or other interests and commitments, may find that their children want or need additional homework challenges. In such instances, parents should talk with the teacher about ways in which their child s learning can be enriched. In Years 7 and 8 students can expect to be given sufficient homework and assignments to keep them busy for at least four nights per week and part of the weekend. Each homework task is to be recorded by the student in his/ her College Diary. Teachers will indicate with a Red Stamp in the diary if a particular task has not been completed at a satisfactory standard. If this occurs, parents are expected to acknowledge their awareness that the work has not been done satisfactorily and insist that it is done forthwith. Repeated failure to complete homework at a satisfactory standard will result in teacher-supervised detentions and/or parents being called for an interview during College hours. The deadlines set by teachers for assignments must be met. Extensions will be given only in exceptional circumstances. These are applied for well in advance of the due date (eg two weeks). At all levels, homework set must always be marked; homework which is not completed to a satisfactory standard will need to be re-done in order for it to be recorded as having been done. There will be a variation between teachers in both sectors of the College and between subjects and Stages in Senior School in respect to the nature and quantity of homework given. If as a parent, you wish to know specifically what homework is being or has been given by a particular teacher, please contact them directly. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 28

29 CURRICULUM Assessment of Student Achievement We expect all students to learn. We expect them to progress. Teachers use a variety of strategies to monitor and measure students achievement of the intended learning outcomes. Formal examinations are conducted mid-year and at the end of each year in Years 7 to 10. In 2015 all students in Years 3, 5, and 7 sit for the National Assessment Program (NAPLAN) in May. These tests will assess Reading, Language, Writing and Numeracy, and provide valuable information on how well the students have achieved in Literacy and Numeracy compared to students of a similar age in government and other non-government schools throughout Australia. Students in Years 3 and above are also able to sit for National Competitions in English, Writing, Spelling, Mathematics, Science and Computing Studies. These tests, which require an additional fee, provide very useful information that is benchmarked against a large number of participants Australia-wide. Parents are provided with comprehensive data on the performance of their child; the students receive certificates, and the College receives very useful diagnostic information. Plagiarism and Cheating We expect all students to be honest and submit only work that is their own. It is an offence to plagiarize, or steal someone else s work and submit it as if it were your own. Students will be instructed on the dangers and consequences of plagiarizing other people s work. At the HSC level, plagiarism can jeopardise a student s HSC results. Similarly, it is dishonest to engage in cheating. Plagiarism and cheating are called malpractice. Malpractice will be punished at the College level and can attract penalties by the Board of Studies if it occurs in Higher School Certificate examinations. Copyright The College is a signatory to a number of very strict protocols and expensive licensing agreements relating to broadcasts, videos, CDs, DVDs, films, performances, printed music and recorded music materials. All teachers are aware of these rules and agreements and will inform students of the implications of these for their work in class and at home. Reporting to Parents Assessment is a continuous activity in every subject in every class. Teachers and students accumulate lots of information about the student s progress. Twice each year (end of Term 2 and end of Term 4) parents are provided with a formal, written report on their child s progress over the preceding semester. These reports should be retained in a safe place by parents. For students in Prep to Year 6, the report is complemented by a Student Portfolio containing samples of work which illustrate the extent of a student s mastery of the intended outcomes. An opportunity is provided for parents to discuss their child s Semester 1 reports at formal interviews held at the end of Term 2. The College considers this reporting to be an important part of its contractual relationship with parents. Students Requiring Additional Assistance The College Learning Support Teacher, Mrs Humphreys, develops programs for each student who requires more assistance in the classroom. She also trains volunteers who assist with the programs that have been develop. The Learning Support teacher supports students in both Literacy and Numeracy. They also liaise with the College Counsellors, Mrs Petersen and Mrs Jahjah, as well as outside agencies, to assist in the diagnosis of a student with a learning disability and to gain ideas for planning the most effective program for each student. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 29

30 CO-CURRICULA ACTIVITIES The College is progressively establishing a range of voluntary co-curricular activities to cater for and nurture the interests of as many students as possible. Some of these activities are held in College time, whilst others are conducted after College or at weekends. Opportunities are provided for students to receive private tuition in music and to perform as members of a choir, vocal ensemble, College band or orchestral group. During the year there are Public Speaking and Debating Competitions, a Creative Arts night and workshops in the Sporting and Creative Arts areas. Duke of Edinburgh s Award Scheme The Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme, (Dukes) is an internationally recognised program that was first introduced in the United Kingdom in The aim is to motivate youth aged between 15 and 25 through becoming involved in a balanced program of self-development activities. Since 1956, the program has developed and grown and now reaches young people in over 120 countries. Educational Field Trips and Camps Most students in each stage will participate in one-day educational field trips that are related directly to their classroom learning. These trips are compulsory and their cost is covered by students fees. In certain Years there may also be some compulsory overnight educational field trips. They are curriculum-related and their cost is covered by students fees. In addition to these, from time to time there will be optional field trips and camps. Some may be held in College time, others at weekends or in a College vacation. Participation in these is voluntary. Each will be funded through an additional contribution by those who attend. As far as possible, at least a term s notice will be given of these so that parents have time to set aside the money for their child to attend. Mindful of the policy of the College to maintain financial affordability for as many families as possible and the unintended moral pressure which participation may have on some less well-off families, the number of optional activities each year is kept to a manageable size. Students whose behaviour prior to one of these activities has not been satisfactory may be excluded from attending. College Christian Groups Junior Cru (Years 3-6) and Senior Cru Club (Years 7-12) Students meet weekly for fellowship, prayer and a Bible discussion on a range of biblical and contemporary issues. All these groups are affiliated with the Crusader Union which operates through independent schools in NSW. Details of the co-curricular activities on offer are announced at Assemblies and through THE LIFE. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 30

31 TEXTBOOKS Junior School All students in Prep to Year 6 are supplied with a variety of textbooks that support the program that is taught. A textbook only forms part of the program and so it is not necessary for every page to be completed. Teachers use them as a tool to reinforce the concepts. All students participate in a Christian Studies program that is also supported by a text. Senior School Students in Years 7 and 12 will be lent textbooks (e.g. in Maths, Science, English) where applicable, which the College expects to be returned in very good condition at the end of the year. The majority of textbooks are issued in an electronic format due to the Bring Your Own Device Program. Students who lose hard copy textbooks or bring them back in an unreasonable condition will incur a fine equal to the current replacement cost. Students should be aware of this before lending College textbooks to other students. Each book is coded and the student to whom it was issued will be held accountable for it. Students are required to delete electronic textbooks from their mobile devices when they have completed that subject each year or each stage. In some subjects, students will access textbooks held at the College. Loss or misuse of these books will also incur a fine. A condition of the loan is that the student s full name must be written on the slip provided on the inside front cover of all texts. In order to minimise costs, the College is striving to secure as many years use from textbooks as possible. In some subjects such as LOTE and Music, students may be required to purchase specialized workbooks. Damaged textbooks/books Books that are lost or damaged beyond repair will need to be replaced by the student. A small payment will be required to cover the cost of any minor damage. Please report any damage that may occur to books so it can be repaired before further damage occurs. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 31

32 SPORT The promotion of the physical and mental fitness of students is an important element of College life. All students P-10 participate in a well sequenced Physical Education Program. This is supplemented by the three College Carnivals: Swimming Cross Country Athletics Parents are invited to attend each of these events, either as spectators and supporters or as helpers, judges, timekeepers etc. As part of its obligation to the Commonwealth Government, all students from Prep to Year 10 participate in at least two hours of physical activity each week. For most students this quantum of time is exceeded through PDHPE lessons and organized sport. For others this time is complemented through dance, gymnastics and dance lessons. Sport Prep Year 2 All students in Prep to Year 2 participate in Physical Education classes that are appropriate to their age. Prep and Kindergarten children focus on gross motor activities such as throwing, catching, balancing and many more. They also participate in dance activities. Students in Years 1 & 2 participate in both Physical Education classes and organised Sport. They are taught skills that will help develop fitness as well as participate in team games. They also participate in a swimming program for one term. Sport Years 3 6 The students participate in a weekly sporting program that offers a wide range of activities to suit the needs and ability levels of all students. The program includes a competition which is held between other schools in a number of sports (IPSSO). The students are selected to represent the College based on their skills in a particular sport. The sports for 2015 played in summer are basketball and oz tag and in winter are soccer and netball. Students who do not participate in IPSSO will participate in College sport, involving a range of sport activities and skill development programs. The College runs three carnivals each year, Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics. The students who perform best at these carnivals then may represent the College at NASSA (New Anglican Schools Sports Association) where they compete against students from seven other schools. If they excel at NASSA they may progress to CIS which is the state carnival for all independent schools. Weekly Sport for Students in Years 7 and 10 All students in Years 7 and 10 will participate in a range of sports clinics led by College staff or external coaches. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 32

33 SPORT Representative Sports NASSA Sport (New Anglican Schools Sports Association) The NASSA competition serves two purposes. Firstly, it provides like-minded schools the opportunity to compete regularly in carnivals and gala days in a variety of sports. Secondly, it is through selection in NASSA teams that students have the opportunity to achieve higher selection into AICES representative teams and then into CIS and even NSW All Schools teams. Students achieving selection into NASSA teams have the opportunity to purchase a shirt and hat. Please note that does not send teams to all NASSA Gala Days. This depends on student interest and the timing of other College activities. For more information about NASSA Activities visit: AICES Sport (Association of Independent Co-Educational Schools) Students achieving selection into NASSA teams compete at the AICES Championships. While the AICES championships are tournaments themselves, a team is also selected at the championships to represent AICES at the CIS championships. Students achieving selection into AICES teams have the opportunity to purchase a variety of AICES merchandise. Some sports also incur a $10 hire levy for playing uniforms. This will be notified on selection into an AICES team. The College will cover the cost of the levy. Note: Some sports are trialled at an AICES level without needing to be selected into a NASSA team to attend the trials. Students will be given the opportunity to nominate to trial for these sports. For more information about AICES activities visit: CIS Sport (Combined Independent Schools) Students achieving selection into AICES teams will compete at the CIS Championships/trials. It should be noted that students competing at a CIS level incur a $15 trial levy. This College will cover the cost of the levy. Note: Some sports are trialled at a CIS level without needing to be selected into an AICES team to attend the trials. Students will be given the opportunity to nominate to trial for these sports. Students should clarify the sports for which this occurs with the Secondary Sports Coordinator. For more information about CIS activities visit: Students achieving selection into CIS teams will be notified of their commitments and costs at the trial dates. Thomas Hassall Representative Uniforms Students representing at MISA and NASSA levels in sporting activities may be required to wear a representative uniform. While students are not charged a hire fee for this, unfortunately in the past not all uniforms have been returned. If a representative shirt is not returned, the replacement cost will be billed to the student s account. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 33

34 THE COLLEGE UNIFORM The uniform distinguishes our students from all other schools. It includes the College colours of red, navy blue and white. It reflects the distinctiveness of the College within the community. It is expected to be worn with pride. While ever a student is in the College uniform, he or she is representing the College. Members of the community judge us all by the way our students wear their uniform and the way they behave on public transport, at railway stations, in shopping centres and elsewhere. The following Uniform Code is designed to assist parents and students to ensure that our high standards of dress are maintained. If in doubt about any of these items, contact your student s teacher to clarify the matter. The Uniform Code The summer uniform is to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. The winter uniform is to be worn in Terms 3 and 4. Junior School students have the option of wearing either the full summer or winter uniform until Mothers Day (Term 2) and after Fathers Day (Term 3). All items of clothing and footwear must be clearly labelled with the student s name. Clothing and hats should be maintained in a tidy manner; damaged or defaced items should be replaced promptly. The wearing of the blazer to, at and from College on hot days in Terms 1 and 4 is optional except on special occasions when it is deemed to be compulsory. On wet days, students should wear a raincoat or bring an umbrella with a nametag or personal identification on it. The College blazer (Senior School) and the College jacket (Junior School) are the only approved outerwear. If additional warmth is required, the woollen pullover (Senior School) or sloppy-joe (Junior School) is to be worn underneath the blazer or jacket. If it gets warm during the day, the blazer or pullover can be taken off. The pullover must not be worn as a substitute for the blazer or jacket. Girls summer dresses and winter skirts must be below the knee. Sleeves must come just above the elbow. The pin must be worn with the kilt by senior girls in winter. Boys shirts must always be tucked in and have their top button done up at all times. Only plain black belts may be worn. For P 6 students, detail about the wearing of the sports uniform will be issued by the class teacher at the beginning of the year. On sports days, Senior School students are to wear the correct sports uniform and bring their black leather shoes to wear if they have Science, TAS or Art classes. The College jumper is not part of the sports uniform. If additional warmth is required, the jumper is to be worn under the tracksuit. Sports shorts must be of a reasonable length (just above the knee). Students who are selected to represent the College or NASSA in swimming are required to wear only navy blue swimming costumes. Bikinis are not permitted at College carnivals. Hats The designated College hat is compulsory all year round. All students (both Junior and Senior) must wear the designated hat in all outdoor activities. The approved headwear for students doing PE and playing sport is the College Cap. The Cap, however, may not be worn at other times as a substitute for the appropriate College hat unless participating in lunchtime sports. All students must wear their College approved hat to and from College. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 34

35 THE COLLEGE UNIFORM Footwear Black leather, polishable lace-up shoes are the only footwear that may be worn with the summer and winter uniforms. Black leather, polishable buckle up/velcro shoes are permissible in K 2 only. For safety reasons, the total height of the heel must not exceed 30 mm. Black joggers are not permitted. For safety reasons, students who are not wearing the regulation black shoes will not be admitted to Science, Art and Technology lessons. Predominantly white and sturdy sports shoes only may be worn with the sports uniform. Students who breach this rule may be barred from participating in PE and Sport and will not be permitted to represent the College. Dunlop Volleys, slip on shoes and skate shoes are not permissible footwear. Socks must be above the ankle and should be of the turn down variety. Socks worn below the ankles are not acceptable. Socks for PE/Sport are to be plain white in colour only with no logos. Hair Hairstyles should be tidy, natural colour, of a safe length, not restricting one s vision and certainly not attention seeking. Notwithstanding passing fashions, hairstyle must be plain and respectable. Girls long hair must be tied back away from the face Boys hair must not cover their eyes/ears, be longer than their collar or shorter than a number 3 razer cut. If hair does not comply with the guideline, students will be asked to have their hairstyle changed. Hair accessories for girls such as ribbons or bands, where needed, should be Red for girls in P-6 and Blue for girls in Years 7 to 12. No other hair accessories are permitted. Scarves Students may only wear the College scarf with the College crest. This is available for purchase from Lowes, Narellan. Other types of scarves are not permitted. Scarves may only be worn with the winter uniform Jewellery Girls may wear only one stud or sleeper earring in the lower ear (matching pair). Rings, necklaces, bracelets including religious pendants, make-up and nail polish may not be worn to College. Artificial nails are not permitted. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings, necklaces or other jewellery. The basic principles underlying these rules relate to safety, avoidance of attention-seeking and detraction from the integrity and distinctiveness of the College uniform. Students who do not comply with these rules will receive a red card. If they do not comply thereafter further penalties will be imposed and parents notified. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 35

36 THE COLLEGE UNIFORM Purchasing Of The Uniform Most components of the College Uniform can be purchased only from Lowes Store at Narellan. Shoes and socks can be purchased elsewhere. The Senior School boys Akubra with band, College Backpack and Library Bag can be purchased only from the College Office. Parents are reminded that the College reserves the right to ask parents to replace items which it considers reflect poorly on the reputation of the College. The College Backpack Each student must have a College backpack which bears the College crest. It is part of the College uniform. The Chiropak by Spartan is ergonomically designed and is endorsed by the Chiropractic Association of Australia and varying sizes can be purchased only from the College. The College backpack should be labelled discretely [e.g. coloured key ring] and not in a way that detracts from its being part of the College uniform. Students who graffiti or deface the College backpack will be required to purchase a new backpack. Computer Bag Students who use a computer/mobile device bag must ensure it is a plain black or navy blue bag. Handbags or bright coloured bags are not permitted. Library Bag All students in P - 6 require a library bag. There is no need to purchase a new one each year if the existing one is clean and usable. If however you wish to purchase a new bag, these can be purchased from the College Uniform Shop. Bags are $7 each. Student Diaries for Senior School Students Students in years 6-12 will receive a diary at the commencement of the College year. The diary is an important information and communication tool for both students and parents. P&F Clothing Pool The Parents and Friends association gratefully accepts donations of second hand uniform items. Due to Health Regulations they are unable to accept donations of hats. If you would like to donate or purchase uniform items contact the P&F on pandf@opac.nsw.edu.au Excellence Wisdom Service Page 36

37 THE COLLEGE UNIFORM Uniform Items Preparatory GIRLS AND BOYS SUMMER UNIFORM WINTER UNIFORM Polo top with red/white design and College crest Polo top with red/white design and College crest Navy microfibre shorts with emblem Navy track pants Navy sloppy joe with College crest (to be worn when it is cool) Navy sloppy joe with College crest White sports style bonds socks White sports style bonds socks Predominantly white sports shoes Predominantly white sport shoes Navy and Red cap with College crest Nay and Red cap with College crest Kindergarten to Year 6 GIRLS BOYS SUMMER UNIFORM An exclusively designed blue and white check dress with red tie A sky blue layback shirt with College crest White ankle style socks Navy blockers shorts Black leather lace up shoes Buckle up style permissible K 2 only) Navy ankle style socks Navy hat with College crest. Black leather lace-up shoes Navy bomber jacket with College emblem (to be worn when it is cool) Navy hat with College crest Navy bomber jacket with College crest (to be worn when it is cool) WINTER UNIFORM An exclusively designed navy tartan tunic Sky deluxe long sleeve shirt A sky blue long sleeve peter pan blouse Navy ½ elastic back classic trousers Navy tights Navy tie with red and white stripes Black leather lace up shoes Navy bomber jacket with College crest Navy bomber jacket with College emblem Navy sloppy joe with College crest (to be worn when required in cold weather in addition to the Jacket) Navy sloppy joe with College crest (to be worn when required in cold weather in addition to the Jacket) Navy ankle style socks Navy hat with College emblem Black leather lace-up shoes Navy cashmere feel Scarf with crest (optional) Navy hat with College crest SPORTS UNIFORM Polo top with red/white design and College crest Polo top with red/white design and College crest Navy microfibre shorts with emblem Navy microfibre shorts with emblem Navy track jacket with emblem Navy track jacket with emblem Navy track pants with red/white piping Navy track pants with red/white piping White sports style socks White sports style socks Predominantly white sports shoes Predominantly white sports shoes The regular College hat mentioned above The regular College hat mentioned above Navy and Red cap with College crest. Navy and Red cap with College crest. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 37

38 THE COLLEGE UNIFORM Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 GIRLS BOYS SUMMER UNIFORM An exclusively designed blue and white check dress A sky blue deluxe short sleeve shirt with College crest A navy wool pullover (to be worn when it is cool) Grey college style (serge) trousers White ankle style socks Navy tie with red and white stripes Black leather lace-up shoes Navy wool pullover Navy Natasha hat with College band Grey ankle style socks Black leather lace-up shoes Akubra hat with band available from the College WINTER UNIFORM An exclusively designed navy tartan kilt skirt with pin A sky deluxe long sleeve shirt or the sky blue deluxe short sleeve shirt with College crest Tartan tie to match skirt Grey college style (serge) trousers Sky-blue long sleeved peter-pan blouse Navy tie with red and white stripes Navy wool pullover Navy wool pullover Navy opaque stockings Junior navy unisex blazer with College crest Black leather lace up shoes Grey ankle style socks Junior navy collarless blazer with College crest Black leather lace-up shoes Navy Natasha hat with College band Akubra hat with College band available from the College Navy cashmere feel Scarf with crest (optional) SPORTS UNIFORM Special red/white design polo top with College crest Special red/white design polo top with College crest Navy microfibre shorts with emblem Navy microfibre shorts with emblem Navy track jacket with piping and College crest Navy track jacket with piping and College crest Navy track pants with red/white piping Navy track pants with red/white piping White sports style socks White sports style socks Predominantly white sports shoes Predominantly white sports shoes Navy and red cap with College crest Navy and red cap with College crest Excellence Wisdom Service Page 38

39 THE COLLEGE UNIFORM College Shoes ACCEPTABLE SCHOOL SHOES Optional velcro or buckle up K to 2 only Black leather Polishable Laced Upper foot protection ACCEPTABLE SPORTS SHOES Stepped heel no higher than 3cm Lace up (no slips on) Cover all of the top of the foot Provides arch support Ankle support & sole protection UNACCEPTABLE SHOES Conservative and non-fluoro colours (predominately white) The majority of the upper foot is unprotected Smooth sole with little grip Thin soft leather offering little protection Canvas upper e.g. Rabens, Vans Fluoro colours Pointy shoes Buckles on shoes Students undertaking practical based subjects need to wear leather shoes that protect their feet against drops and spills. WH&S requirements will result in students who are not wearing shoes with sufficient protection being excluded from some practical activities. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 39

40 COLLEGE LIFE Routines Times For students in Senior School, the College day begins at 8.30 am. For students in Junior School it begins at 8.40 am with a morning assembly. Students in Prep commence at 9.00 am. Please do not bring your child to Prep before 9.00 am. The day concludes for K-6 students at 3.10 pm and Years 7-8 at 3.20 pm. Students in Prep conclude at 3:00 pm. Lesson Times (Year 7-12) PC or Morning Assembly Monday & Friday (K-6 only) Morning Assembly and Roll Call Period Period Recess Period Period Lunch Lunch Period Period 6 (7-12) Period 6 (K-6) Attendance and Absences The roll is marked each morning. Students not present when the roll is called are deemed to be absent. Students who arrive late must report to the Office to receive a late pass before proceeding to class. Parents should contact the Office by phone or via another child in the family when a student is unable to attend College for the day. Verification of the absence reason via the Parent Portal must be completed within seven days of the absence. Notations in the student diary are not sufficient. The number of days absent is recorded on a student s report each semester. Late arrival and partial absences are also recorded on the student s report. An excessive number of days missed can compromise a student s progression to the next year or the award of a Higher School Certificate. Leave During Term Time For Elite Sport or Employment in the Entertainment/Hospitality Industry In line with Part 5 of the Education Act 1990, Parents who wish their child to be absent from College during term time to take part in non-school related elite sport or for employment in the entertainment industry, must ensure they have received the required Certificate for Exemption from Attendance at School from the Principal at least 7 days prior to the first day of absence. This certificate can only be provided by the Principal on his receiving the completed Application for Exemption from Attendance at School at least 14 days prior to the first day of absence. These application forms are available from the College website (via the Portal link to Student Forms). College fees continue to be payable during these absences. Teachers are unable to provide work for extended periods but can make suggestions for study whilst the student is away. Leave for a family holiday is not considered for an Exemption and the leave is recorded as a reportable absence. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 40

41 COLLEGE LIFE Leaving the College during the Day Students may not leave the College during the day except in the company of their parent or guardian. Parents should contact the College in advance and call at the College Office to sign-out their child should departure be necessary prior to 3.20 pm. Parents are not to go directly to the classroom to pick up their child. They must go to the College Office where staff will make arrangements for the child to come to the Office to meet their parent. Playground Supervision During recess and lunchtime, the playground is supervised by a team of teachers. Students are told the areas in which vigorous play is permitted and where passive uses are available. Students are also told which areas are out of bounds. Should an incident or an accident occur in the playground, it should be reported immediately to the teacher on duty in the area so that appropriate action can be taken. Teachers are instructed on the importance of active and preventative supervision. A senior staff member oversees the playground supervision during each break. Morning Supervision Students should not be dropped off at the College before 8.00 am. There is no supervision provided before that time. Junior School students who arrive at the College before 8.00am will be required to attend the Before and After School Care program (an additional charge applies for this service). Money Matters Money Brought to College All student sport, excursion and invoice payments should be made to the College Office, between 8.10 am 8.40 am each day. The Office will issue a receipt indicating the activity and amount paid. Student Banking The Commonwealth Bank has installed a facility at the College which allows students to deposit money to their Youth Saver Bank Accounts. Should you wish for your child to use the banking facility, all that is needed is for him/her to bring his/her bank deposit book and money to the College on Mondays. If your child does not have a Youth Saver Account and you would like to open one please contact the College Office to obtain the necessary form. Once the completed form has been returned, the College will arrange for the account to be opened. Scholastic Book Club Students in Prep Year 6 are invited to participate in the Scholastic Book Club. Not only is this a means by which parents can purchase books that their children want to read, but every dollar spent on a book purchase earns points for the College which results in additional reading materials for the IRC. Participation is voluntary. Fundraising The College is indebted to the Parents and Friends Association for its fundraising efforts. These have resulted in the acquisition of a shade structures, musical instruments, sport resources and gardens. The College is mindful of the financial pressures on families and does not want fundraising from within the College community to become burdensome and counter-productive. In determining the priorities for the use of the money raised each year by the P and F, the College Council selects significant projects which will benefit as many students (P-12) as possible in the present and in the future. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 41

42 COLLEGE LIFE Property Matters Lost Property All items of clothing should be labelled with the student s name. Items which become separated from their owner should be handed in to the College Office. Every effort will be made to reunite the item with its owner. Uniform items not claimed within two weeks will be donated to the Uniform Shop for resale. Parking on the Site Parents, staff, students and visitors who drive or park their cars on College grounds do so at their own risk. The College reserves the right to exclude a vehicle or have it removed. Parents are requested to use the College carpark entry off Central Avenue and street parking in Shannon Way and along Peter Brock Drive. Please do not park in the kiss and drop zone of the car park. This is for set down of students only. Site Security During Lesson Time All visitors/contractors must enter the College via the College Office and sign in and wear a visitor s badge. This is to ensure that unauthorised persons do not have the freedom to roam around the campus. Parent Helpers wishing to access the College between 9.00 am and 3.00 pm must do so via the College Office. All Parent Volunteers must sign in and wear the appropriate College Parent Helper Badge. Please DO NOT go directly to the classroom. Grounds and maintenance staff regularly patrol the carpark and grounds. Any person found not to have the appropriate badge will be requested to leave the premises. Parent s use of Amenities There is a staff/disabled person s toilet in each of Blocks A and B available for parents. Under no circumstances should parents/visitors/contractors use the student amenities. Maintenance contractors are to use the Visitor Bathroom located in the College Office. Travel Matters School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) Many students travel to and from College by bus. If you live beyond a specified kilometre radius of the College you may be eligible to apply for a School Student Travel Pass for Bus and/or Train travel. If there is no public transport you may be eligible for Private Vehicle Conveyance Subsidy. For current details regarding the SSTS please visit the Ministry of Transport website: or phone: Relevant application forms are available from the College Office. Passes are issued at the beginning of the year and must be shown to the driver on each journey. Student Travel Passes are only available for use to and from the student s place of residence. Travel to and from a parent s place of work or a grandparent s or friend s house is not allowed. It is a requirement of the Ministry of Transport that you complete a new application form when: You have changed your details eg: address A Year 2 student is going into Year 3 A Year 6 student is going into Year 7 Students travelling on College or Hire Buses Students who travel on College buses to and from College and/or Hire buses to and from College events are expected to wear seat belts when they are available. Students are required to stay in their seats and not be a distraction to the driver. There will be consequences for students who fail to comply with these guidelines. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 42

43 COLLEGE LIFE Students travelling home on buses Students who travel home on a bus will meet in a designated area of the playground at 3.10 pm and walked by a teacher to the bus stop and supervised until they board their bus. Parents are requested to advise the office of their child s bus travel arrangements. Parents Bringing Children to College in the Morning In the mornings, parents who wish to kiss and drop off students prior to 8.50 am should enter via the ENTRY gates on Central Avenue and park parallel to the footpath in the designated areas. Parents who wish to accompany their children to the Morning Assembly should park in the other car parking spaces and walk with their children to the assembly area. Picking Up Children In The Afternoon - Junior School All students Prep Year 4, must be collected from their teacher by a parent, guardian or a Senior School sibling. No student is allowed to go to the College car parks unless accompanied by an adult. This is for their safety as there is a large volume of traffic around the College each afternoon. The Teacher will be waiting in the Junior School concrete area by 3.10 pm each day. Please inform your child s teacher when you are taking your child. All students need to be collected by 3.30 pm or they will be placed in After College Care for which a fee will be charged. Parents should not proceed beyond the assembly area and should keep clear of all Classroom Blocks to avoid distracting the lessons being taught at this time. Picking Up Children In The Afternoon - Senior School Senior School students are dismissed from their classroom and if walking home are to exit via the Office pedestrian gate. Students who catch a bus are to meet the Bus Duty teacher and follow their instructions. After College Pickup Students in Years 5-8 and their younger sibling may use the Pickup Zone in the carpark. The duty teacher will meet students at the gate near the tennis courts. Older students are to pick up their younger sibling from the assembly area and then walk out to the waiting area. When picking up children from the Central Avenue carpark, please enter via the ENTRY gate and depart via the EXIT gate. Please do not leave your car while standing in the kiss and drop zone and always move as far up the zone as possible to allow room for cars entering the carpark. Students who walk or ride their bike to College Students who walk or ride their bike to the College will meet in a designated area of the playground at 3.10 pm and be walked by a teacher out of the College property. Parents are requested to advise the office of their child s walking/ cycling arrangements. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 43

44 COLLEGE LIFE Food Matters Bringing Food to College The College is Allergy Aware and has several students who have a life-threatening allergy to food products containing nuts. Please do not allow your child to bring food to College which contains nuts or nut products. This includes nutella, peanut butter some muesli bars and snack items. Parents who want their child to bring food to College to share with the class (e.g. to mark a birthday) should check with the teacher beforehand to avoid potentially dangerous situations from occurring, especially in relation to allergies. The College Canteen Oran Park Town Cafe offers a variety of quality food and refreshments for both students and staff at lunchtime. All ordering must be completed online Orders will be delivered to the College prior to lunch and handed to students in their classrooms. Other Matters After College Care After College Care is available at the College. This service is provided by Oran Park Childcare (Formerly Bambino s). For further information and registration contact adminop@bambinoskindergarten.com.au or Preparatory Classes The custom-built Prep Facility is located on the eastern end of A Block. It provides quality care and an educational program that will lead on to Kindergarten. It offers either a two day program or a three day program. To qualify, children need to be eligible to enter Kindergarten at Oran Park Anglican College in the following year so that the transition from Prep to Kindergarten will be uninterrupted. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 44

45 COMMUNICATIONS Official Photographs Each year the College contracts a professional photography company to take photographs of each class, and where requested, individual students and/or siblings. Parents are informed in advance and may place orders for such photographs. Promotional and Media From time to time College staff or media organizations take photographs of students engaged in College activities. These photographs may be used for promotional purposes, or with news stories. A form is sent out at the commencement of Term 1 regarding photographing students. Parents who do not want their children s photographs to be published in the College newsletter and promotional material should notify the College in writing using this form. Privacy At public events such as Celebration and Awards Evenings, Assemblies and Musicals, whilst parents may take photographs of their own children for personal use, they must not take photographs of other students without the approval of the students parents. At public performances in which performance rights have to be paid, the taking of unauthorised photographs could be in breach of the law. Office Hours Parents may contact the College Administration Centre between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm Monday to Friday during term time. Telephone, Fax and Telephone: admin@opac.nsw.edu.au Contacting teachers If you wish to speak with your child s Teacher or a Co-ordinator, please them directly or via admin@opac.nsw.edu.au. Appointments to see the Head of Campus may be made through the College Office or via admin@opac.nsw.edu.au. Complaints and Compliments If at any time you have a concern about some aspect of College life or a complaint about someone or something, rather than bottling it up or sharing it with others, contact the College Office and arrange a time to discuss it with a Co-ordinator or the Head of Campus. Alternatively, send a letter marked Confidential to the Principal. Your letter will be acknowledged as soon as possible. Equally, words of encouragement go a long way in sustaining positivity within the College and are most welcome at any time. Student Diaries Teachers of students in Years 6-12 communicate with parents via their student diary. A separate note must be provided regarding student absence to the roll teacher within 3 days. Parents should check the diary each evening and respond to messages included in it. Parents of Senior School students must sign the diary at the end of each week as confirmation that they have checked their child s diary. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 45

46 COMMUNICATIONS Change in Details It is important that parents notify the College immediately there is a change in their address, place of work, home or mobile phone number. It is very frustrating trying to contact parents in an emergency when this information is not up to date. Parents may make these changes via the Parent Portal or by contacting the College Office staff. THE LIFE The main means of communication between the College and parents is the fortnightly newsletter called THE LIFE. The College is progressing towards increasing electronic communication methods. A link to THE LIFE will be ed to families that have provided their address. As far as possible, all communications affecting students are included in THE LIFE. THE LIFE is also posted on the College website: From time to time, special notes may be sent home with the note-taker. Parent Partnership We regard parents as our partners in the process of educating their children. Effective partnerships must be nurtured. The College provides many opportunities for parents to get to know their child s teacher/s. These include Parent Information Evenings, special assemblies, book fairs, Concerts, special events, picnics and carnivals. The College is very appreciative of the multitude of ways in which parents and grandparents assist the teachers in classrooms, at carnivals, with reading, craft and sporting activities. Donations of goods, services and time as well as trade and professional expertise are accepted with gratitude. Experience has shown that students whose parents take a keen interest in the College develop into better citizens than those whose parents show no interest. At the beginning of each year the College conducts an Induction Program for Voluntary Helpers. This program informs helpers about the College s policies and practices in respect to Workplace Health and Safety, Child Protection, Responding to Emergencies, Professional Standards and Privacy and Confidentiality. It also provides tips on how to be an effective helper. This College has been fortunate to have a keen, active Parents and Friends Association. The P and F has played an important role in developing the College community, making parents feel welcome at College events, raising funds and generally improving the quality of the learning environment of the College. Our students are the beneficiaries of such generous parental support. All parents are encouraged to join the P and F and become active participants in the life of the College. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 46

47 PASTORAL CARE Pastoral Care Class Students core class and teacher meet together as a pastoral care group (roll call). This encourages students to get to know other students better. It also gives them a group to belong to and identify with. Students meet in these class groups each morning for roll call so the student has an opportunity to develop a close relationship with one staff member. These groups also form the basis of regular Pastoral Care lessons which cover topics designed to enhance the students understanding of themselves and others. Roll call teachers in the Senior School will regularly check student diaries and uniform. They take the responsibility of caring for those students in their charge in a pastoral sense and try to encourage and support their group in their education. Counselling Miss Calderwood, the College Counsellor, meets with students who are either referred by their teacher or who make contact themselves. Parents are also free to discuss their son or daughter with the Counsellors by making an appointment via the College Office. Miss Calderwood is a trained psychologist who works with students who have difficulties in both learning and relationships. Rev Stuart Starr is the Senior Minister of NewLife Anglican Church, Oran Park and also serves as the Honorary Chaplain to the College. He is happy to meet with parents and students if requested. He can be contacted on stuart@newlifeanglican.org.au Giving to Others It is so easy for us to take our way of life for granted. We can become oblivious to what it is like to live in a society or family that has none of the comforts with which we are accustomed. From time to time throughout the year we invite students to contribute to a limited number of Christian agencies involved in helping needy people in Australia and overseas. We emphasise the importance of gratitude as the motive for such giving. In thankfulness to God for all that He has given us, we give sacrificially so others can live better. Contact with Parents The College values communication with parents. If you have a concern then please contact the relevant teacher or a member of the College Executive Team to discuss the matter. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 47

48 PASTORAL CARE Recognising Student Achievement Many forms of achievement are valued, suitably rewarded and appropriately recognized. The College also believes that students who strive to improve on their personal best, whether it be in sport, academic study, extra-curricular, cultural or social activities (in the College and beyond it), should be commended, encouraged and appropriately recognized. Awards are also recorded in THE LIFE. For continued excellence and effort, students may be rewarded with the following: - Students in K-6 are rewarded for academic, social and cultural achievement with GOOD WORK CARDS and students in 7-12 are rewarded with an ORANGE MERIT STAMP. These cards may be given for behaviour and achievement both within and outside the classroom and are issued at an appropriate time by a teacher. Five Good Work cards or Excellence Cards earn a Merit Award Five Merit Awards earns a Principal s Award, presented at Assemblies. Merit Awards may be accumulated over several years. Five Principal s Awards earn a College Award (embossed Certificate), presented at P-6 or 7-12 Assemblies at the end of each term. Principal s Awards may be accumulated over a number of years. Ten Principal s Awards earn a College Banner which is presented at the Celebration and Awards Evening at the end of the Year. Principal s Awards may be accumulated over years. Sporting Achievement Students who achieve excellence in their sporting endeavours for the College are also rewarded. All students representing the College at NASSA events receive a Participation Certificate. Students who win their event while representing the College at NASSA events receive a College Representative Certificate, presented at Assemblies. Students who are chosen to represent NASSA at CIS level are awarded a College Award at end of term Assemblies Students who win their event at CIS level are awarded a College banner and (7-12) a College Pocket. Students who win their event representing CIS at ACES carnivals are awarded a College medallion, presented at Celebration and Awards Evening. Celebration and Awards Evening At our end of year Celebration and Awards Evening, we give thanks to God for His blessings during the year and we acknowledge special achievements made by students throughout the year. There are currently four categories of awards: College Community Service Awards, Co-curricular Awards, Academic Awards and Sporting Awards. Excellence Wisdom Service Page 48

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52 Central Ave & Peter Brock Dr, Oran Park Town NSW 2570 T F E admin@opac.nsw.edu.au W opac.nsw.edu.au Excellence Wisdom Service