Code of Conduct

POSITION STATEMENT

 

We believe that every girl has personal integrity and is capable of responsible behaviour. This policy aims to ensure consistency on the occasions when a learner’s behaviour falls below expected standards. As such we maintain a positive and supportive environment that is conducive to the learning of a rigorous school programme together with sound moral values and opportunities to exercise personal responsibility.  

In order to be an effective Learning Community it is necessary that all learners be honest, courteous, considerate and responsible in order to protect the rights and welfare of all at Wynberg Girls’ Junior School. 

Our aim is to enable our girls to understand that acceptable behaviour is a result of mutual respect; respect for self, respect for others and respect for property. It is our school’s values of moral integrity, passion for learning and a culture of graciousness that are considered when creating this environment for learning.  

This policy is drawn up in accordance with The South African School’s Act. 

STATEMENT OF STAFF EXPECTATIONS 

To facilitate this policy staff can expect: 

Ø      to enjoy the respect of colleagues, parents and pupils and to be treated accordingly.

Ø      to be acknowledged for “a job well done.”

Ø      to enjoy the support of parents in their efforts to provide the best education for the pupils.

Ø      to enjoy the support of parents when disciplinary action related to their daughters is required.

Ø      that parents recognise that the school is legally responsible for the implementation of health/safety and protection rules.

Ø      that parents recognise that the staff is responsible for the delivery of the national curriculum and can expect that this enjoys priority over “outside” activities that occur during school hours.

Ø      that they be allowed to perform their duties without hindrance from unnecessary interruptions.

Ø      learners will arrive punctually at school in the mornings and for any organised afternoon activities.

Ø      parents will set an appropriate example in dress, language and conduct when attending school functions and while supporting school activities.

Ø      children will be collected from school within 15 minutes of completion of the school day or afternoon activity unless prior arrangements have been made with the after-care facility. 

STATEMENT OF LEARNER RESPONSIBILITIES

Pupils should: 

General:

Be respectful and tolerant in their relations with other people.

Display good manners / courtesy / politeness.

Never use foul language – written or verbal

Refrain from name-calling and bullying

Respect the right to privacy

Be non-discriminatory as regard race, creed, colour, beliefs, social status, etc

Not take / use other people’s belongings without their consent

Avoid back-chatting and all forms of anti-social behaviour.

Be co-operative / obedient as and when required

Behave with propriety at all times whether in or out of school with a quality of graciousness.

Refrain from behaviour that could reflect negatively on the reputation and / or ethos of WGJS.

Be punctual for all school activities.

Be neat and tidy in appearance.

Be helpful and greet all staff and visitors.

Observe all school rules at all times

 At School: 

Uphold and enhance the good reputation and ethos of the school

Behave in a responsible and acceptable way both in school, and when travelling to and from school and at any other time when appearing in public in school uniform.

2.1  Be good representatives for the school

2.2  Act as positive role models for younger learners

2.3  Wear the correct (approved) school uniform as defined, both in school and when travelling to and from school

2.4  When in uniform avoid eating in the street or other public places that are not designated eating areas

2.5  Anti-social behaviour and unhealthy habits are not acceptable either at school or off the premises – smoking, drug-taking and consumption of alcohol are strictly forbidden.

2.6  Weapons / dangerous objects are strictly forbidden

2.7  Be willing to contribute to development of the school community

  

Scholastic: 

Take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the school

 

3.1  Work to the best of their ability and take responsibility for their learning

3.2  Have a positive and active approach to their learning both in and out of school

3.3  Prepare for lessons by bringing the necessary equipment and books

3.4  Complete and submit coursework and homework on time

3.5  Arrive at school punctually and be on time throughout the day (classes, extra-murals)

3.6  Be conscientious about attending school every day

3.7  Present notes from parents on returning after absence

3.8  Present a timeous written motivation from parents for absence from a compulsory function / activity

3.9  Return all acknowledgement slips / notices / forms on or before the due date.

  

Property:

 Accept responsibility for facilities / opportunities offered

 4.1  Look after and respect the school’s, staff’s pupils’ and any other person’s possessions, equipment, books, furnishings, etc

4.2  Share responsibility for maintaining a clean and tidy environment; no littering

4.3  Return library books promptly

4.4  Do not deface / damage / waste school or other pupil’s property

4.5  Adhere to regulations regarding the use of equipment / facilities

4.6  Be responsible for one’s property as the school is not liable for loss.

 

Safety: 

Obey health / safety and protection rules

5.1  Remain on site during school hours

5.2  Avoid “out of bounds” areas unless accompanied by a teacher or other adult: gymnasium, swimming pool, classrooms

5.3  Adhere strictly to “rainy weather” rules

5.4  No running in buildings or on the veranda

5.5  No unnecessary personal belongings should be brought to school

5.6  Personal money must be kept in a purse and this must be securely held on your own person or handed in for safe keeping

5.7  Report any unusual behaviour by strangers.

 

BULLYING

 This is the dominance of one learner by another, or a group of others. It is often premeditated and is a pattern of behaviour (not an isolated incident). 

Staff must be alert to signs of bullying and act promptly (See Bullying Policy). Children should feel able to inform a staff member in confidence and be assured that all allegations will be investigated. If true they will be taken seriously and acted upon. 

 

STRATEGIES/CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR

 Educators are responsible for setting up structures in there own classes and grade. They will teach their learners what is appropriate/successful behaviour.

 If the learners do not comply there are various levels of enforcement.  

The first and most effective is instituted by the educator. The enforcement system used in the class should be understood by each learner. 

The grade leaders are also encouraged to have a whole grade system which is appropriate for their grade.

The Yellow Bench is to be used sparingly as a place to detain learners during break.

Educators will use the sanction system to keep a record of repeated or more major offences.

The Principal will deal with any serious offences. The principal has a range of measures at her disposal to be applied as she deems appropriate.

 

The Governing Body reserves the right to amend the Code of Behaviour when this is deemed necessary.