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Victoria Park High School
CODE of CONDUCT
INDEX
1. PREAMBLE
2. The LEGAL AUTHORITY for the CONTROL and DISCIPLINE of PUPILS
3. RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES of PUPILS
4. RESPONSIBILITIES of PARENTS with RESPECT to the CODE of CONDUCT
5. DISCIPLINE
6. PUNISHMENT
7. DISPUTE RESOLUTION
8. PREVENTION, PROACTIVE ADVICE, COUNSELLING, PENALTIES and CORRECTIVE MEASURES
9. OFFENCES THAT MAY LEAD to SUSPENSION
10. SUSPENSION and EXPULSION
11. DUE PROCESS
12. SERIOUS MISCONDUCT and the LAW
13. APPENDIX A : School Rules
14. APPENDIX B : Classroom Rules
15. APPENDIX C : Pupil Values
Victoria Park High School
CODE of CONDUCT
1. PREAMBLE
This School recognises, and this Code of Conduct enshrines, the principles, philosophy and ethos contained in the preamble to the South African Schools Act 84 of 1996. This Act states, inter alia, that:
“...this country requires a new national system for schools which will redress past injustices in educational provision, provide an education of progressively high quality for all learners and in so doing lay a strong foundation for the development of all our people’s talents and capabilities, advance the democratic transformation of society, combat racism and sexism and all other forms of unfair discrimination and intolerance, contribute to the eradication of poverty and the economic well-being of society, protect and advance our diverse cultures and languages, uphold the rights of all learners, parents and educators, and promote their acceptance of responsibility for the organization, governance and funding of schools in partnership with the State ...”
This School, and this Code of Conduct, also recognises the need to promote a culture of reconciliation, teaching, learning and mutual respect and the establishment of a culture of tolerance and peace.
2. The LEGAL AUTHORITY for the CONTROL and DISCIPLINE of PUPILS
2.1 In terms of the NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY ACT (Section 3(n) of Act 27 of 1996), the Minister of Education determines national education policy for the control and discipline of learners in education institutions. This policy shall be directed at the advancement and protection of the fundamental rights of every person guaranteed in the BILL OF RIGHTS in the CONSTITUTION of the REPUBLIC of SOUTH AFRICA, Act No. 108 of 1996.
2.2 The Member of the Executive Council responsible for Education in the Province of the Eastern Cape, acting in terms of section 9(3) of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), hereby amends regulations Relating to behaviour by learners in public schools which may constitute serious misconduct, the Disciplinary Proceedings to be followed and Provisions of due process safeguarding interests of the learner and any other party involved in disciplinary proceedings, determined by him in Provincial Notice No. 32 and published in the Provincial Gazette Extra-ordinary of 25 June 1999 by the substitution for the Schedule thereto of the schedule hereto.
2.3 The SOUTH AFRICAN SCHOOLS ACT (Section 8(1) of Act 84 of 1996), empowers the Governing Body to maintain discipline in this School through this Code of Conduct.
2.4 In terms of the above, pupils must understand that action may be taken against them if they contravene this Code of Conduct. Nothing shall exempt a pupil from complying with this Code of Conduct.
2.5 A teacher at this school shall have the same rights as a parent to control and discipline pupils according to the Code of Conduct during the time that the pupil is in attendance at the school, in any classroom, at any school function or school excursion or school related activities.
2.6 The principal or a teacher, upon reasonable suspicion (sufficient information), has the legal authority to conduct a search of any pupil, or property in possession of the pupil, for a dangerous weapon, firearm, drugs or harmful dangerous substance, stolen property, or pornographic material brought on to the school property.
3. RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES of PUPILS
3.1 School and Classroom Rules
(a) The School Rules (attached to this Code of Conduct as APPENDIX A), which have been developed over the years in consultation with pupils, parents and teachers, are designed to regulate the general organisation of the school, and relationships between the principal, teachers and pupils.
(b) Classroom Rules (attached to this Code of Conduct as APPENDIX
B), which have been developed in consultation with pupils, are designed to give effect specifically to the relationship between teachers and pupils in the classroom.
3.2 Pupil Values
These values (attached to this Code of Conduct as APPENDIX C) have been developed by the pupils themselves and are designed to encourage and develop a positive attitude and ethos among the pupils of this school. The values are attached to the Key Areas identified by the Governing Body as being the crucial focal points of this school.
3.3 Learning and School Work
Pupils must commit themselves to do their school work during classes, complete assigned homework and catch up on work missed because of absence.
3.4 Security and Care of School Property
It is the privilege and obligation of every pupil to protect and carefully use all the facilities and equipment so that others that come after them can also enjoy the privilege. The parent or legal guardian of anyone who intentionally misuses, damages or defaces any school property should replace it or pay for the property so damaged. Destruction or vandalism of property is a punishable offence.
3.5 School attendance
The right of pupils to basic education places the obligation on them to attend school regularly during school hours. Should a pupil be absent his/her parent or legal guardian must write a note to the school to explain the absence. This note must be brought to the school on the day the pupil returns.
3.6 Pupils have the responsibility to learn and develop their full potential, ie. academic, occupational, social, sporting, spiritual, artistic and cultural potential. They should actively participate in the learning process and decision making and have the opportunity to talk about their problems.
3.7 Pupils can expect teachers to maintain a high standard of professional ethics and to be present to teach their classes, assist them with their learning difficulties, report on their progress and to look after their well-being. There should be a relationship of mutual trust and respect between pupils and teachers. Victimisation of one by the other is unacceptable.
3.8 The Representative Council of Learners (RCL) should represent the interests and views of the pupils within the school. They should also promote proper conduct of pupils but do not have the authority or right to punish other pupils.
9. RESPONSIBILITIES of PARENTS with RESPECT to the CODE of CONDUCT
4.1 The ultimate responsibility for pupils’ behaviour rests with their parents or guardians. It is expected that parents or guardians will
(a) support the school, and require their child/children to observe all school rules and regulations and accept responsibility for any misbehaviour on their part; and
(b) take an active interest in their child’s/children’s schoolwork and make it possible for their child/children to complete assigned homework.
4.2 Parents should attend meetings that the governing body convenes for them.
4.3 Parents have the right to take legal action against any teacher, pupil or person who unlawfully violates the constitutional rights of their children by, eg. inflicting corporal punishment, injury to a child, etc.
10. DISCIPLINE
5.1 Discipline must be maintained in the school and the classroom to ensure that the education of pupils proceeds without disruptive behaviour and offences. Its goal is to teach and lead pupils to self-discipline.
5.2 Every effort will be made to ensure that the disciplinary process is expeditious, fair, just and consistent, as well as being corrective and educative where and when at all possible. Where possible the parent/s or guardian/s will be informed and involved in the correction of the pupil’s behaviour. The school will make every effort to protect pupils from abuse by adults or other pupils.
5.3 Every teacher is responsible for discipline at all times at the school and at school related activities. Teachers have full authority and responsibility to correct the behaviour of pupils whenever such correction is necessary. Grade Heads have the authority and responsibility for dealing with discipline within their Grades. Serious misconduct must be referred to the Principal, who will then invoke the legal requirements as laid down in the Provincial Regulations (Provincial Gazette, No. 978 21 February 2003).
5.4 The school will strive to ensure that any corrective measures or disciplinary action is commensurate with the offence/infraction. Corrective measures may become more severe with subsequent repeated infractions. Suspension and/or expulsion may follow. Pupils need to understand that the law does not protect them against suspension or expulsion for a first offence or infraction of a rule or policy. Such decision will be taken by the correct authority.
5.5 In cases where a pupil cannot adjust to the requirements of the school and/or where his or her behaviour is objectionable in that it violates the rights of others, he/she will be referred to the Principal. Through consultation with the parent/s or guardian/s every effort will be made to assist him/her to adjust. This may include referral to the school counsellor, the education support services or other professional services for treatment. If all these efforts fail, the Principal will refer the matter to the Governing Body, which may make a decision in the best interests of the pupil and the other pupils at the school.
11. PUNISHMENT
6.1 Punishment is a corrective measure or a penalty inflicted on an offender who has to suffer the consequences of misconduct in order to maintain the orderly society of the school.
6.2 Corporal punishment shall not be administered.
12. DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Teachers, as disciplinarians, should make every effort, personally and through the structures provided by the school, to resolve disciplinary problems which are not serious enough to be referred to the Principal.
13. PREVENTION, PROACTIVE ADVICE, COUNSELLING, PENALTIES and CORRECTIVE MEASURES
8.1 In cases which are considered to be minor offences, corrective measures may be applied. These measures could include one or more of the following:
(a) a verbal warning or written reprimand by a teacher or the Principal;
(b) supervised school work that will contribute to the pupil’s progress at school and /or the improvement of the school environment, provided that the parent/s or guardian’s are informed timeously and that the security of the pupil is assured;
(c) performing tasks that would assist the offended person/s;
(d) placing the offending pupil on daily report;
(e) agreed compensation;
(f) replacement of damaged property;
(g) suspension from some school activities, e.g. sport, cultural activities and
(h) Friday/Saturday detention
8.2 Suspension may be considered after the school deems that every effort has been made to correct the behaviour of the learner. The permission of the Head of Department of the East Cape Education Department would have to be obtained in this regard. In such a case a formal hearing, as required by the Act, would have to be held.
8.3 If a pupil is allowed to return to the school after having been suspended, such a pupil may be required to sign a Contract of Good Behaviour, to be co-signed by his parent/s or guardian/s.
14. OFFENCES THAT MAY LEAD to SUSPENSION
Consult the Provincial Regulations with regard to a comprehensive list of offences which may lead to the suspension of a pupil. Offences that may lead to such suspension include, but are not limited to, the following:
(a) conduct which endangers the safety and violates the rights of others;
(b) possession, threat or use of a dangerous weapon;
(c) possession, use, transmission or visible evidence of narcotic or unauthorised drugs, alcohol or intoxicants of any kind;
(d) fighting, assault or battery;
(e) immoral behaviour or profanity;
(f) falsely identifying oneself;
(g) harmful graffiti, hate speech, sexism, racism;
(h) theft or possession of stolen property, including test or examination papers prior to the writing of tests or examinations;
(i) any unlawful action, vandalism or destroying or defacing school property;
(j) disrespect, objectionable behaviour and verbal abuse directed at teachers or other school employees or pupils;
(k) repeated violations of the School Rules and/or the Code of Conduct;
(l) criminal and oppressive behaviour such as rape and gender based
harassment;
(m) victimisation, bullying and intimidation of other pupils;
(n) infringement of examination rules; and
(o) knowingly and wilfully supplying false information or falsifying documentation to gain an unfair advantage at school.
15. SUSPENSION and EXPULSION
10.1 The Governing Body may, after a fair hearing, suspend any pupil who has been found guilty of contravening stipulations of the Code of Conduct:
(a) for a period of one week; or
(b) for a reasonable period not exceeding one week, pending a decision by the Head of Department, on the recommendation of the Governing Body, as to whether or not the pupil is to be expelled from the school.
10.2 A pupil who has been expelled, or his/her parent/s or guardian/s, may appeal against the decision of the Head of Department to the Member of the Executive Council, within seven (7) days of the decision to expel him/her.
10.3 In cases of disciplinary transfer, the Head of Department must find a school place for the expelled pupil until the pupil is beyond compulsory school-going age, as the right of a pupil to basic education cannot be violated.
10.4 All decisions leading to suspension or expulsion must take cognisance of applicable laws, e.g. a learner whose parent/s or guardian/s is/are unable to pay the school fees determined by the Governing Body, may not be suspended from classes or expelled from the school.
16. DUE PROCESS
11.1 The South African Schools Act makes provision for due process including a fair hearing before a pupil may be suspended from the school by the Governing Body. Due process guarantees a pupil a fair hearing before a pupil may be suspended for a period of one week or be expelled from the school by the Head of the Department.
11.2 Any pupil alleged to have violated any rule that may require suspension or expulsion, must be brought to the Principal. The Principal shall hear the evidence and then decide on the action to be taken. Such action must include informing parents in writing of the proposed action and arranging a fair hearing by a disciplinary committee.
11.3 The Disciplinary Committee shall be constituted according to the provisions
of the Provincial Regulations laid down by the Member of the Executive Council (MEC).
11.4 The Disciplinary Committee must conduct the hearing in accordance with the Provincial Regulations laid down by the Member of the Executive Council (MEC).
17. SERIOUS MISCONDUCT and the LAW
Serious misconduct, which transgresses the law of the land, must be investigated by the police and referred to the Court if necessary. Other serious misconduct must be handled in terms of the Government Notice and Regulations promulgated by the Member of the Executive Council in the Provincial Gazette of the Eastern Cape.
APPENDIX A
SCHOOL RULES
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION
* All Victoria Park High School pupils must be aware of the fact that, whilst at school as well as in private and public places, they are responsible for the good name and image of the school.
* Pupils must be neat, smart, polite, pleasant and considerate in the street, on public transport and in any other public place.
* Pupils need to know that they are in the public eye and under public scrutiny at all times. Sloppy dress, loud and raucous behaviour and bad manners are unacceptable.
* All pupils shall be required to obey the rules of this School as well as all laws, regulations, ordinances and instructions of any legal body at National, Provincial or Local level.
* The breaking of any of these laws will be considered the same as the breaking of any school rule and may result in punishment. The School reserves the right to apply its own punishment in addition to any punishment of a court.
2. EXTRA-MURAL PARTICIPATION
Any pupil who joins or registers for an extra-mural activity will be expected to remain fully committed to that activity for the period of its operation, i.e. a season or a year.
3. SHOWING RESPECT and COURTESY
* Pupils are expected to display respect for those in authority and those senior in age. A code of common decency is to be upheld. This applies both when at school and outside school, such as when on public transport, at extra- mural activities and on tours. Any action that is discourteous, dishonest, disruptive, destructive or that can have a bad effect on the image and reputation of VPHS will be regarded as an offence.
* Cyclists, motor cyclists and drivers of cars must not only observe normal
traffic rules but also be extra courteous and considerate. Pupils driving cars or riding motor cycles to school must have a licence for the car/motor cycle.
* Pedestrians must acknowledge the courtesy given to them by drivers who stop in order to allow them to cross the road. Pedestrians must also obey traffic lights and traffic rules.
* Teachers and School Councillors must be obeyed as authority figures in the school at all times. Any wilful disobedience or insubordination towards a Teacher or a Councillor will be considered a serious offence.
4. ATTENDANCE
4.1 DAILY REGISTRATION
School commences at 7:50 every day. After lines or assembly pupils shall attend the daily Registration Period.
4.2 LATENESS
4.2.1 LATECOMERS shall have their names taken by members of the DISCIPLINE SUB-COMMITTEE and shall then immediately attend Assembly or Registration Class.
4.2.2 The consequences of repeated lateness will be severe,
ie Friday or Saturday DT.
4.2.3 Pupils arriving LATE after registration period must first report to the Secretaries’ Office before going to class – they will record their names in the Latecomers Book.
4.2.4 Pupils must arrive timeously for lessons.
4.3 ABSENCE
4.3.1 After a period of ABSENCE, for whatever reason, an absentee note, written and signed by a parent or guardian, must be handed to the Class Teacher ON THE DAY THAT THE PUPIL RETURNS TO SCHOOL.
4.3.2 After a period of ABSENCE as a result of illness, a DOCTOR’S CERTIFICATE must be produced:
1. If the period of absence is 4 days or longer.
2. For any period of absence during examinations, i.e. one day’s absence.
3. At the request of the school authorities.
4.3.3 If a pupil is ABSENT from school, he/she will be expected to make up all the work missed.
4.3.4 If a pupil is ABSENT for an examination or test, he/she may be required to write the examination or test on the day of his or her return to school.
4.3.5 Should a pupil be ABSENT and not be able to attend a SPORTS PRACTICE or MATCH, for whatever reason, he/she must inform the teacher concerned, so that alternative arrangements for the practice or match can be made.
4.3.6 Under no circumstances may a pupil be absent from school due to illness and then attend/participate in a practice/match on that same day.
4.3.7 If a pupil is ABSENT on the Friday before a Saturday match, the parent/s or guardian/s must phone the school before 09:00 on the Friday with a message for the teacher, so that alternative arrangements for the match can be made.
4.3.8 If a pupil is found to be away from school without permission i.e. BUNKING, he or she will make up at least double the time lost in DETENTION or performing some COMMUNITY SERVICE after school hours.
4.4 ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
No pupil who is ILL AT SCHOOL will be permitted to go home unless called for by his/her parent/s or guardian/s, or nominated other person, except in the case of an emergency.
5. SCHOOL UNIFORM and GENERAL APPEARANCE
5.1 UNIFORM
5.1.1 Pupils must wear their school uniforms, as laid down below, with pride. Parts of the uniform may not be worn with other apparel. The wearing of the correct uniform is always compulsory when pupils represent or attend the school, except when an announcement is made to the contrary.
5.1.2 All items of uniform must be clearly and permanently marked. Lost property will be taken to the Secretaries’ Office from where it can be collected.
5.1.3 No deviation from standard school dress will be allowed, except under exceptional circumstances and then only with the permission of the Principal.
5.1.4 The correct uniform must be worn from home to the school and back again.
5.1.5 BOYS' UNIFORM
Winter: School blazer (with the top button buttoned up), long grey flannels with a brown or grey belt, white shirt (long sleeves) and school tie. Plain grey socks, dark BROWN leather (polishable) lace-up shoes. A bottle green pull over, V necked and with a band of school colours round the neck, may be worn under the blazer.
Summer: As above without tie or blazer; regulation short sleeved open necked shirt with the school badge on the pocket. Blazers or jerseys may be worn when necessary during the summer term.
General: Only a plain white vest or plain white T-shirt, which may not be visible above the collar, may be worn under the shirt.
5.1.6 GIRLS' UNIFORM
Winter: School blazer, green skirt of official school style and material, white long-sleeved shirt and school tie. Green "bobby socks" with a band of school colours round the tops OR brown tights (obtainable from the school) and BROWN lace up shoes, low heeled. Hair accessories must be bottle green. A bottle green pull over, V necked and with a band of the school colours round the neck, may be worn with the blazer.
Summer: Skirt as for the winter uniform, white open necked shirt with short sleeves and with the school badge on the pocket. Plain, white ankle length socks, which must be folded over (not rolled over) and BROWN lace up shoes. Blazers or jerseys may be worn when necessary during the summer term.
5.1.7 OTHER ITEMS
TRACKSUITS
Regulation tracksuits are a compulsory part of the sports uniform. After sport, the full tracksuit or school uniform must be worn to return home. Tracksuits are not to be worn during academic school hours unless instructed to do so for Life Orientation. Proper sports shoes are to be worn and only a plain white or bottle green T-shirt may be worn under the tracksuit top.
SCARVES
Only regulation scarves are permitted with the school uniform.
BEENIES
The official school beenie may only be worn to and from school during winter when it is very cold. Beenies may not be worn at school.
BADGES
The only permitted lapel badges are those concerned with the School and its activities.
KIT-BAGS
The VPHS kitbag is permitted for carrying sports kit only - not books. Only the regulation kitbag may be used for school sports.
SUITCASES
Books must be carried only in suitcases, briefcases or reinforced rucksacks. A standard VPHS satchel is recommended which is obtainable from the VP School Shop. Only the pupil’s name may be written on the outside. Bags must be plain in colour. Bottle green, black and navy bags are acceptable. Graffiti on school bags is not permitted.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Pupils are responsible for all their belongings. The school is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage to pupils’ property. Valuables may be handed in for safe keeping. Items such as radios, walkmen, etc., are not to be brought to school. Cell phones are brought to School at own risk and must not be visible or used on the school premises from 07:50 – 14:10. Cell phones must be switched off during the school day from 07:50 – 14:10.
SPORTS UNIFORMS for PRACTICES and MATCHES
The uniform requirements for each sport are laid down by the sport concerned.
5.2 GENERAL APPEARANCE
5.2.1 HAIR
Styles for both boys and girls will be such that they do not attract undue attention and are confined to the following:
5.2.1.1 BOYS’ HAIR
* Hair must be tidy and worn REASONABLY short.
* Hair MAY NOT hang over the collar, eyes or ears and it may not be undercut or have a step cut in it.
* Side-burns must not extend beyond the middle of the ears.
* Gel, applied conservatively, is permitted. The overuse of
gel and the use of gel to create weird styles is not permitted.
* Mullets are not permitted in any form.
5.2.1.2 GIRLS’ HAIR
* Long hair is to be tied back, plaited or clipped up (with unobtrusive clips) and may not hang over the eyes. Only bottle green ribbons, clips or “scrunchies” are allowed.
* Hair must be tidy and worn REASONABLY short - the minimum close cropped cut allowed is a No. 3.
* Gel, applied conservatively, is permitted. The overuse of
gel and the use of gel to create weird styles is not permitted.
* Dreadlocks are not permitted.
5.2.2 OTHER MATTERS of APPEARANCE
JEWELLERY
The wearing of jewellery e.g. studs, bristles, earrings, chains, rings or bracelets, made of any material, is not allowed.
MEDIC-ALERT BRACELETS
These should be worn by those who need to.
NAILS and MAKE-UP
Nails must be kept short, clean and neat. No make-up or nail varnish may be worn. The school will require make-up or nail varnish to be removed.
SHAVING
Boys are to be clean-shaven.
Boys who arrive at school unshaven will shave at break. The cost will be R10-00. The parents of repeat offenders will be contacted and the matter discussed.
TATTOOS
Tattoos in any form are NOT to be visible when school uniform or sports uniform is worn.
6. BEHAVIOUR and DISCIPLINE
All pupils are expected to behave in a civil and civilised manner to each other and to members of the teaching and non-teaching staff when at school. The understanding is that they have to respect the rights of others to being safe and secure and unthreatened whilst at school.
A number of the following issues come under the heading of SERIOUS MISCONDUCT as laid down in the SA SCHOOLS’ ACT and in the EAST CAPE EDUCATION ACT and PROVINCIAL REGULATIONS. These matters are dealt with in the SCHOOL’S CODE of CONDUCT to which this set of SCHOOL RULES is attached. Where necessary and when deemed appropriate, the provisions of the attached CODE of CONDUCT will be invoked with regard to the following :
6.1 THREATS, BULLYING, FIGHTING
Indulgence in the above is unacceptable and not allowed. No outside influences may be used to intimidate members of this school. Disputes should be resolved with the involvement of counsellors and teachers.
6.2 VANDALISM
Any wilful defacing of school buildings, school property, teachers’ property or the property of fellow pupils will be considered a most serious offence. A pupil who witnesses an offence under this rule is expected to report the culprit to councillors or teachers.
6.3 WEAPONS
Pupils may not bring a weapon of any description or a dangerous object into the school grounds at any time.
6.4 THEFT and UNAUTHORISED BORROWING
Unauthorised borrowing or hiding of property will be regarded as theft and will be severely punished.
6.5 ALCOHOL, DRUGS and CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES
No pupil, may imbibe ALCOHOL while in school uniform, on school property or at any school-related function. Pupils who are over the age of 18, are subject to the laws of the land outside the school environment, with the proviso that, should there, as a result of the drinking of liquor, be unacceptable behaviour which brings the name of the school into disrepute, such an incident will be treated in a most serious light.
Involvement in DRUGS on school property is a criminal offence. Any person found in possession of drugs shall be subjected to possible police investigation and , if necessary, prosecuted in a court of law.
Involvement in CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES (e.g. glue-sniffing, thinners etc.) shall be viewed as an extremely serious matter.
6.6 SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted when in uniform or at any school-related functions. No pupils may come to school with any evidence of smoking, e.g. matches, cigarettes or smelling of cigarette smoke.
6.7 SCHOOL- RELATED FUNCTIONS
All rules relating to behaviour at school apply at school-related functions. Pupils who disregard these rules will be banned from similar future functions.
6.8 FOUL and BAD LANGUAGE
The use of bad language will be regarded as a serious offence and will be punished.
6.9 INTIMATE BEHAVIOUR BETWEEN SEXES
Intimate behaviour between boys and girls in uniform is not acceptable. Kissing and fondling in public will be seen as inappropriate behaviour and will be punished.
6.10 CLASSROOM BEHAVIOUR
The following activities are regarded as inappropriate ways of behaving in the classroom situation (and are punishable): Eating, disruptive behaviour, loud screaming and shouting, leaving books at home, homework not done.
6.11 NON-NEGOTIABLES IN THE CLASSROOM
The pupils and staff co-operated in coming up with the following non-negotiable classroom rules. These CLASSROOM RULES are attached to the CODE of CONDUCT as APPENDIX ”B” :
1. No talking out of turn.
2. No abusive or discourteous language.
3. No graffiti, vandalism or littering.
4. No walking around without permission.
5. No doing of activities not related to the subject.
6. Everyone must be punctual for class.
7. Pupils must do their homework and bring the correct books.
8. Classes must have a formal beginning (greeting) and dismissal.
9. Everyone must be neatly attired.
10. Pupils must be seated and attentive for intercom announcements.
6.12 DANGEROUS PRACTICES and GAMES
Activities that physically endanger other pupils, such as pea-shooting, elastic-shooting or shooting sharp projectiles, are strictly prohibited. Bodily contact activities are not permitted.
6.13 COPYING of WORK
Any copying, or the appearance of copying, will be dealt with in the strictest possible way.
6.14 OBJECTIONABLE VISUAL MATERIAL
Any objectionable reading and viewing matter, e.g. pornography, is prohibited at school. Pupils who have such material will be dealt with severely.
7. SOME GENERAL MATTERS
7.1 VISITORS to the SCHOOL
No visitors may be admitted to the school or allowed on the school grounds without the permission of the Principal or a Deputy Principal.
Communication with visitors over the school boundary is prohibited.
7.2 OUT OF BOUNDS
The following areas shall be out of bounds to pupils:
1. The areas between the boundary wall and the prefabs on the basketball court, the new classroom block and the school shop block.
2. Corridors during break and assembly.
3. The Staff Room and Staff Quadrangle.
4. The open parking area between the school and Ernest Walter Avenue (parking area outside the Library).
5. The Halls (including the Blake Hall foyer and steps leading to the Projection Room) classrooms and laboratories before school commences and during breaks, unless a teacher has given permission.
6. The front of the school.
7. Motorcycle parking area.
8. The main entrance to the School and the Matric stairs except for Matrics.
9. The big bus garage area.
10. The tarred area behind the Blake Hall (the area between the Hall and the Field.
11. The Blake Hall stairs.
7.3 PERMISSION TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL PREMISES
All pupils shall stay within the bounds of the school during the school day.
If a pupil needs to leave school early for any good reason, the parents must request permission in writing.
Permission to leave the school premises may only be given by the Principal, Deputies and Grade Heads.
< Any pupil who has permission to leave school must inform the Secretary before leaving. (Letter from the relevant higher authority)
7.4 CORRIDOR DISCIPLINE
Classes must proceed swiftly and quietly, keeping left in the corridors.
There shall be no running, games or excessive noise inside the school building.
7.5 HITCH-HIKING
Pupils in school or sports uniform MAY NOT hitch-hike.
7.6 NOTICES
1. NOTICE BOARDS
* School-related notices must be signed by the Teacher-in-charge of the activity.
* Non-school related notices may not be placed on pupils’ notice
boards without the permission of the Principal or a Deputy
Principal.
2. INTERCOM
These notices must be written out on the appropriate form and handed to the Secretary for announcement either at the beginning of first or second break or at the end of the day.
3. ASSEMBLY
Notices which need to be read out at Assembly must be well prepared and relevant to school activities.
7.7 LITTER
Pupils may not litter the premises of the school - this includes classrooms and desks. If the situation regarding litter becomes unacceptable the appropriate measures will be put in place to rectify the situation.
7.8 DIARIES
* Each pupil must have a homework diary - this is not negotiable.
* Homework diaries must be brought to school every day. These are to be kept neatly and homework carefully noted each day.
* Teachers may require parents to sign homework diaries.
7.9 BUBBLE-GUM
Bubble-gum and chewing-gum are forbidden at school.
7.10 CELL PHONES (ELECTRONIC DEVICES)
Cell phones and/or electronic devices are strictly prohibited throughout the academic day (07:50 – 14:10), as well as at ALL formal school related functions.
Cell phones are brought to school at own risk and the school will not investigate phones that go missing at school. Pupils who do not adhere to cell phone regulations will have their cell phones confiscated for a week.
7.11 ASSEMBLY BEHAVIOUR
Assemblies are formal occasions and there should be no talking during these proceedings.
8. GENERAL
Any matters not specifically dealt with in these School Rules will be dealt with as they arise by the appropriate School authorities and on the understanding that, whatever action is decided upon, it will be dependent upon the accepted ethos of the School and the laws of the land.
VICTORIA PARK HIGH SCHOOL
JANUARY 2011
APPENDIX B
CLASSROOM RULES
These NON-NEGOTIABLE CLASSROOM RULES were developed in close consultation with the pupil body:
1. No talking out of turn.
2. No abusive or discourteous language.
3. No graffiti, vandalism or littering.
4. No walking around without permission.
5. No involvement in activities not related to the subject being taught.
6. Everybody must be punctual for class.
7. Pupils must do their homework and bring the correct books.
8. Classes must have a formal beginning (i.e. greeting) and dismissal.
9. Everyone must be neatly attired.
10. Pupils must be seated and attentive for intercom announcements.
VICTORIA PARK HIGH SCHOOL
JANUARY 2011
APPENDIX C
PUPIL VALUES
These Values, which exemplify the KEY AREAS identified by the School’s Management Team and the Governing Body, have been identified by all pupils in the school in a survey held towards the end of 1999,
ACADEMICS
Strive for excellence
Optimize your potential
Strive to be your best
KNOWLEDGE - the key to success
EXTRA-MURAL
Use life’s opportunities
A healthy body ensures a healthy mind
Work together, play together
All for fun and fun for all
DISCIPLINE
Take responsibility for your actions
Think before you act
Be firm, be fair
PASTORAL
Show respect in order to gain respect
Help a friend in need
IMAGE
First impressions last
Be courteous and neat
Wear your uniform with pride
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