Debney Park Secondary college

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Debney Park Secondary College
169-175 Mt Alexander Rd.
Flemington,
Melbourne, VIC
Australia 3031
Ph (03) 9376 1622
Fax: (03) 9376 5232
Email: debney.park.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au

Code Of Conduct

INTRODUCTION

The Student Code of Conduct has been drawn up to help all members of the school community increase their understanding of daily practices relating to conduct and the expectations that it places on all of us.

The original guidelines were developed by a working party during 1995. The process involved wide consultation with all sectors of the school community and took several months to complete. These guidelines have served us well but have now been reviewed.

During the second half of 1999 a working party of the Student Services Sub-committee of College Council was established to review our student Code of Conduct. Staff have been consulted regularly and have participated in a range of workshops to review the guidelines and to look at practises in other schools.

Students, through the Student Representative Council, have been asked for their views on the document. Similarly parents, through the Parents and Friends group, have been asked to comment.

During the planning stages and workshops, use was made of a variety of resources including documents from Bellarine Secondary College, Keilor Downs College, Bayside Secondary College, Upfield Secondary College, Williamstown High School, Kew High School, Strathmore Secondary College and the University High School. The Student Code of Conduct was developed in the context of the Department of Education, Employment and Training's Framework for Student Support Services.

GUIDING PRINCIPLE

The Debney Park Secondary College community of students, parents/carers and staff is committed to providing a supportive and dynamic learning environment that will enhance resilience and a sense of belonging.

We believe that this is achieved through:

Providing an orderly, safe and harmonious environment;
On-going development of a responsive, challenging and engaging curriculum;
Taking responsibility for personal actions;
Developing courteous, considerate and co-operative ways of behaving; and
Promoting respect for self, others, property and the environment.

Student Rules and Consequences

When a student breaks rules outlined in the school's Code of Conduct, teachers apply consequences that are consistent with these rules. Rules will be clearly explained so that students understand the consequences of their actions and the reasons for their punishment. Consequences will be graded in severity, with the emphasis on students being accountable for their behaviour, learning and to take responsibility for their actions. These disciplinary measures form part of the teacher's classroom management plan and are consistent with a whole school approach to the implementation of our Code of Conduct. Care will be taken to ensure that the students' studies are not adversely affected by such disciplinary measures.

At Debney Park Secondary College there is a belief in and expectation that:

Personal growth and learning occurs in a caring, secure and well disciplined environment with positive recognition of appropriate behaviour and achievement.
Disciplinary measures and interventions are undertaken to address inappropriate behaviour and to solve problems.
Depending on the severity or frequency of inappropriate behaviour, the consequences for breaking rules outlined below, will normally be applied. An Incident Report will be completed if an incident requires the involvement of the relevant Year Level Manager(YLM), Sub-school Coordinator (SSC), Student Welfare Coordinator(SWC) or Assistant Principal(AP). Sub-school Coordinators will normally become involved when the nature of a particular incident is severe or they possess additional information about the student(s).
Repetition of offences, serious offences, physical violence, harassment, possession of illegal substances, wilful damage, vandalism, theft and insulting behaviour towards staff are extremely serious violations of the Code of Conduct and will be dealt with in an appropriately serious manner, generally resulting in suspension.
Persistent offenders will have privileges withdrawn, ranging from withdrawal from certain activities for minor incidents, to suspension for severe violation of our Code of Conduct. The Department of Education, Employment and Training's Student Discipline Procedures (1994) (expulsion), will be fully implemented when necessary.

1.0 LEARNING

Rules
1.1 Students must allow learning to take place and must follow instructions.
1.2 Students must attend regularly, be on time for classes and be properly prepared for work.

Offences	Consequences	People Involved
Lateness to school (1.2)	Remind student of rule Roll adjusted (if possible) with an "L" Late note Year level detention (after 3 lates)	Classroom teacher SSC Parents
Lack of equipment and books for classes (1.1, 1.2)	Remind student of rule Teacher warning for first instance and a note in Student Diary Parental contact Detention	Classroom teacher Core teacher/YLM Parents
Lack of homework (1.1)	Remind student of rule Note in Student Diary Parental contact	Classroom teacher Core teacher/YLM
Refusal to cooperate (1.1)	Remind student of rule Classroom sanctions Counselling	Classroom teacher YLM SWC
Defiant and continual refusal to cooperate which leads to the disruption of others' learning (1.1)	Removal of student from situation Parental contact Suspension	Reliable student sent to General Office with a note from the classroom teacher requesting removal Assistant Principal Parents
Truancy/Wagging (1.1, 1.2) Leaving class without permission	Remind student of rule. VCE students reminded of 85% rule for satisfactory completion Detention Parental contact Attendance card Counselling	Classroom teacher Parents YLM SWC
Truancy/Wagging (1.1, 1.2) Not attending individual classes	Remind student of rule. VCE students reminded of 85% rule for satisfactory completion Counselling Parental contact Attendance card Detention	Classroom teacher Parents YLM SWC
Truancy/Wagging (1.1, 1.2) Leaving grounds without permission	Remind student of rule Parental contact Detention	YLM Parents
Truancy/Wagging (1.1, 1.2) Extensive unapproved absences	Remind student of rule Counselling Parental contact Attendance card	YLM/SSC Parents SWC

2.0 TREATMENT OF OTHERS

Rules
2.1 Students must show consideration for all members of the school community and ensure that their words and actions cause no harm or offence.
2.2 Students will not behave in a violent or aggressive/intimidating manner.
2.3 Students will communicate (verbally and non-verbally) in a way that is not offensive to others.
2.4 Students will be respectful of others' differences including race, gender, culture, ability, etc.
2.5 Students should be aware of and adhere to the democratic rights of others in all college activities. Therefore students must not:
a) Impede others learning by continued misbehaviour
b) Make excessive demands for the use of school facilities thus inhibiting the reasonable access of others
c) Criticise or denigrate others when participating in college activities and/or decision making processes

Offences	Consequences	People Involved
Violent, aggressive/intimidating behaviour (including or inciting fighting and reckless aggressive behaviour) (2.2)	Immediate removal of student(s) from situation Referral to Principal Class or other responsible person Parental contact Suspension Expulsion	Teacher on the spot YLM Principal/Assistant Principal Parents Police (if appropriate)
Inconsiderate behaviour (such as calling out in class) (2.1)	Remind student of rule Detention Parental contact	Classroom teacher Core teacher YLM SWC Parents
Swearing at or abuse of staff, or visitors to the school (2.3)	Apology Remind student of rule Counselling, reconciliation processes as required Parental contact Suspension	YLM Assistant Principal Parents
Swearing at or use of inappropriate language to students (2.3)	Apology Remind student of rule Counselling, reconciliation processes as required Detention Parental contact	Teacher on the spot YLM SWC Parents
Harassment (verbal or physical conduct which is unsolicited, unwelcome, threatening or repeated and regarded as offensive. (2.1)	Remind student of rule Counselling Detention Parental contact Suspension	Teacher on the spot YLM SWC EO Coordinator Parents
Disrespect of others' differences (2.4)	Remind student of rule Counselling Parental contact Suspension	Teacher on the spot YLM SWC EO Coordinator Parents
Wearing inappropriate clothing (2.1, 2.4)	Remind student of rule Action taken to rectify situation Parental contact Counselling	Teacher on the spot YLM Parents SWC
Possession and/or distribution of offensive material (2.1)	Confiscation of material Counselling Detention Parental contact Suspension	Teacher on the spot YLM SWC Assistant Principal Parents
Criticising or denigrating others when they are participating in college activities and/or decision making processes (2.5)	Remind student of rule Counselling	Teacher on the spot Core teacher YLM SWC

3.0 PERSONAL AND COLLEGE PROPERTY

Rules
3.1 Students must look after their own property and the property of others and the college.

Offences	Consequences	People Involved
Defacing/damaging property or equipment (3.1)	Remind student of rule Clean up of immediate area Community service for repeat offenders Parental contact Replacement of equipment or property Suspension Expulsion	Teacher on the spot YLM Parents Assistant Principal Principal Police (if appropriate)
Deliberate mis-use of equipment including computers (3.1)	Remind student of rule Ban from using equipment Arrange for alternative work Parental contact	Teacher on the spot YLM Parents
Vandalism - destruction of property through reckless behaviour or deliberate action (3.1)	Parental contact Replacement or payment for damage as appropriate Community service Suspension Expulsion	YLM Parent Assistant Principal Principal Police (if appropriate)
Theft of personal or college property (3.1)	Parental contact Replacement of, or payment for, property Suspension Police informed as appropriate Expulsion	YLM ParentAssistant Principal Principal Police

4.0 SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

Rules
4.1 Students must move and act in a way that isn't disruptive or unsafe for themselves and others.
4.2 Students will not use or possess alcohol, tobacco, illegal substances or dangerous items (eg. knives, weapons etc)
4.3 Students should conduct themselves in a responsible and considerate manner, both at school and whilst travelling to and from school.
4.4 Students should respect the school environment.

Offences	Consequences	People Involved
Smoking (4.1, 4.2)	Remind student of rule Confiscate cigarettes Letter to parents Detention (with anti-smoking materials) Repeat offenders-suspension (on third offence)	Teacher on the spot YLM Parents
Not following safety rules in the classroom (4.1)	Emphasise unsafe nature of behaviour Detention	Classroom teacher
Moving or behaving in an unsafe manner in the school buildings/grounds (4.1)	Remind student of rule Withdrawal of recess/lunchtime for detention	Teacher on the spot YLM
Eating/drinking in classrooms and library (4.1, 4.3, 4.4)	Remind student of rule Removal of food/drink Clean up immediate area Community Service	Teacher on the spot YLM
Use of walkmans, mobile phones, gameboys and similar items during classtime (4.1, 4.3)	Remind student of rule Confiscated for rest of the day (item to be securely stored) Repeat offences-parental contact	Teacher on the spot YLM Parents
Riding bicycles, rollerblading, inline skating, skateboarding etc. in the buildings or on the property (4.1, 4.3)	Remind student of rule Confiscated and to be collected from the YLM at the end of the day	Teacher on the spot YLM
Waterfighting and possession of waterfighting items(4.1, 4.3, 4.4)	Remind student of school rule Confiscation of offending item Clean up of area	Teacher on the spot YLM
Littering & Spitting (4.4)	Remind student of rule Clean up immediate area Community Service as appropriate	Teacher on the spot YLM
Being in areas deemed to be "out of bounds" (4.1)	Remind student of rule Removal from area and warning Community service for repeat offenders	Teacher on the spot YLM
Inappropriate use of "Lunch Pass" (4.1)	Remind student of rule Parental contact Confiscation of "Lunch Pass" for repeat offenders	Teacher on the spot YLM Assistant Principal Parents
Behaviour endangering student's own safety (4.1)	Parental contact Referral to SWC/Student Support Services	Teacher on the spot YLM Parents SWC/Student Support Services Principal Class
Distribution, possession and/or use of alcohol, illegal substances or dangerous items (knives, weapons etc) (4.1, 4.2)	Confiscation Removal of student from situation and medical care (if necessary) Referral to Principal Class Parental contact Police informed as appropriate Counselling Suspension Expulsion (depending on offence)	Teacher on the spot YLM Principal Class Parents SWC/Student Support Services Police (if appropriate)

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The school believes that a positive approach to student management is desirable. Personal responsibility and self-discipline will be developed and fostered. Positive student actions are encouraged and the acknowledgment and affirmation of student achievement will be an important feature of college life.
Within our school community all parents/carers, teachers and students have rights, which are protected by responsibilities.
It is the responsibility of all members of the school community to uphold these rights by supporting and acting in accordance with the college Code of Conduct.

Right	Students have a responsibility to:	Staff have a responsibility to:	Parents/cares have a responsibility to:
1. Each person has the right to a safe environment.	To act in a safe and sensible manner with consideration for others. To follow safety rules.	To give clear instructions about appropriate safety procedures. To respond to and /or report unsafe actions or situations.	To promote safe and sensible behaviour.
2. Each person has the right to contribute to the educational process within a supportive environment whereby: Students have the right to learn, staff have the right to teach and parents/carers have the right to participate in their child's education.	To be prepared for classes. To attend all classes punctually. To be accountable for their behaviour. To listen to and learn from others. To explore and express ideas. To complete set work to the best of their ability.	To deliver comprehensive and challenging lessons that cater for individual differences and needs. To keep informed of current educational issues and trends. To be punctual and prepared for lessons. To keep clear and accurate records. To set homework.	To send their child to school. To support the school's policies and practices. To support actions which are taken in accordance with the school's Welfare and Discipline Policy. To attend parent-teacher interviews and relevant meetings.
3. Each person has the right to be treated in a fair and equitable manner: to be accepted, feel valued and treated with respect and courtesy.	To create an environment free of harassment and prejudice by treating others with respect and equality. To abide by the College Code of Conduct and to treat all members of the school community with respect and courtesy.	To be a role model for all members of the community by treating others with respect and equality. To implement the College Code of Conduct in a fair, responsible and consistent manner. To negotiate a classroom management plan with each class that they teach.	To treat others with respect and equality. To assist and support staff with the implementation of the College Code of Conduct.
4. Each person has the right to a secure environment where all personal, school and community property is cared for.	To care for all personal and community property. To care for school equipment, facilities and the environment. To participate in maintaining a clean and tidy school.	To promote responsible attitudes and behaviour towards property. To promote care and concern for school equipment, facilities and the environment. To promote a clean and tidy school. To care for all personal and community property.	To promote responsible attitudes and behaviour towards property. To promote care and concern for school equipment, facilities and the environment.
5. Each person has the right to achieve his or her best, experience success and receive praise for achievement.	To take up opportunities provided by the school. To encourage and support others to achieve.	To create opportunities for the members of the school community to achieve and be successful. To encourage and support effort and achievements. To acknowledge and praise others.	To acknowledge and praise their child's efforts and successes.
6. Each person has the right to participate in college activities and contribute to decision making.	To participate in the school's decision making processes using appropriate forums. To participate in extra-curricula activities. To make sure that their parents/carers are informed about what's happening at school by taking home notices, newsletters, etc.	To participate in the school's decision making processes and foster student, parent and community participation. To communicate with parents and the community when appropriate.	To be informed about and participate in the school's decision-making processes where appropriate. To supervise their child's homework through the use of the Core Diary. To communicate with the college regarding concerns, lateness, absences or change of personal details. To be familiar with current issues and activities of the school.

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Last Updated: Friday, 18 September, 2009