DSG Handbook 2016 -...

DSG Handbook 2018

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Contents INTRODUCTION ....................................................................... 4

THE SCHOOL HYMN ................................................................. 5

THE SCHOOL PRAYER ............................................................... 6

CALENDAR FOR 2018 ............................................................... 7

SECTION 1 ..................................................................................... 9

SCHOOL STRUCTURE ............................................................... 9

CONTACT DETAILS ................................................................... 9

MEMBERS OF STAFF ................................................................ 9

SECTION 2 ................................................................................... 13

RULES OF CONDUCT .............................................................. 13

1 SCHOOL JURISDICTION .................................................. 13

2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................... 14

3 RESPONSE TO BREACH OF SCHOOL RULES .................... 15

4 OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE ............................................. 16

5 SERIOUS MISCONDUCT .................................................. 16

6 PASTORAL CARE ............................................................. 24

7 GENERAL RULES and EXPECTATIONS ............................. 24

8 MOBILE DEVICES ............................................................ 28

9 OUT OF BOUNDS ............................................................ 28

10 DETENTION ................................................................... 29

11. OPEN CAMPUS ............................................................. 30

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SECTION 3 ................................................................................... 31

DAILY ROUTINES .................................................................... 31

THE SCHOOL DAY ................................................................... 33

SECTION 4 ................................................................................... 35

LEAVING THE DSG

CAMPUS ................................................................................. 35

4.1 WITH PARENTS ............................................................... 35

4.2 CLOSED WEEKENDS ....................................................... 38

4.3 WRITTEN PERMISSION REQUIRED ................................. 39

4.4 RESTRICTIONS ................................................................ 39

4.5 GIRLS’ OUTINGS ............................................................. 39

SECTION 5 ................................................................................... 42

GENERAL

INFORMATION ....................................................................... 42

5.1. CLOTHING EXCHANGE and BOOKROOM ....................... 42

5. 2. DANCES .......................................................................... 42

5.3. DAY GIRLS ...................................................................... 44

5.4 DINING HALL .................................................................. 45

5.5. UNIFORM ....................................................................... 46

5.6. LIBRARY ......................................................................... 50

5.7. LARGE GATHERINGS ...................................................... 50

5.8. ROLL CALL...................................................................... 51

5.9. SAN ............................................................................... 51

5.10. SCHOOL PERIOD........................................................... 51

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5.11. SPORT .......................................................................... 52

5.12 DANCE .......................................................................... 52

5.13. TRANSPORT ................................................................. 53

SECTION 6 ................................................................................... 54

ACADEMIC

ASSESSMENT.......................................................................... 54

6.1 CASS AND PROMOTION MARK ...................................... 54

6.2 PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS ....................................... 54

6.3 APPLICATION MARKS ..................................................... 55

6.4 AWARDS ......................................................................... 56

SECTION 7 ................................................................................... 58

POLICIES ................................................................................. 58

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INTRODUCTION

This book is issued to all girls of the DSG. In it you will find information that will

help you to become familiar with the school and give you the confidence to

engage meaningfully with all aspects of the programme. You should have the

Handbook easily accessible as you may need to refer to it, especially when you

are new to the school. However, members of staff and other pupils are always

available to help you or to answer any questions you may have if the

information you need is not provided.

The rules given in this book should be taken seriously as for any

community to function well it needs to have rules and regulations that are

understood by all its members. DSG is a close-knit community and with a clear

structure in place, all are free to grow and to contribute to the community as a

whole. It is particularly important that you know and understand what

constitutes Serious Misconduct (found on pages 17 to 21 in this book).

Even in a busy place such as DSG, there may be times when you feel

you need help or just someone to talk to. There will always be someone you can

go to if you are troubled – your housemistress, tutor, the chaplain, the

educational or counselling psychologists or one of the san sisters – and we

encourage you to keep the lines of communication open.

We hope that this will be a happy and fulfilling year for you. We wish

you success in attaining the goals you set yourself and trust that during the

course of the year, you will be able to make a positive contribution to the DSG

community.

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THE SCHOOL HYMN

For all the saints who from their labours rest

Who Thee by faith before the world confessed

Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blessed

Alleluia, Alleluia

Thou wast their rock, their fortress and their might

Thou, Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight

Thou, in the darkness still their one true light

Alleluia, Alleluia

But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day

The saints triumphant rise in bright array

The King of Glory passes on his way

Alleluia, Alleluia

From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast

Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host

Singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost

Alleluia, Alleluia

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THE SCHOOL PRAYER

Almighty God, the fountain of all true knowledge and wisdom,

by whose grace the foundation of our school

was laid by Bishop Merriman,

we give thanks that we have prospered

in your blessings of grace and life.

May the vision and the purpose of our school continue to bring

new depths of wisdom and knowledge

to all the young women who pass by here.

Work in our lives that whatsoever things are true, noble, right,

pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy

that these things

may issue forth in our lives for all eternity.

May this school be loved and honoured by all who learn,

all who teach and all who work here.

May your blessing be upon us today and forever.

In Jesus name we pray,

Amen

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CALENDAR FOR 2018

Term 1 Thursday 18 January – Wednesday 28 March

Half-Term Thursday 1 March – Monday 5 March

Tuesday 16 January New girls’ programme commences

Wednesday 17 January New girls’ programme continues

Boarders return by 18:00

Thursday 18 January Classes begin

Wednesday 28 February 14:00: Gala, first session

19:00: Gala, second session

Thursday 1 March Half-term begins: Travel day

08:00: Parent–Teachers’ Meeting

Monday 5 March Boarders return by 18:00

Tuesday 6 March Classes begin

Wednesday 28 March 17:00: Final Assembly (Compulsory attendance)

Thursday 29 March Travel day

Term 2 Wednesday 25 April – Tuesday 7 August

Half-Term Thursday 21 June – Tuesday 3 July

Tuesday 24 April Boarders return by 18:00

Wednesday 25 April Classes begin

Thursday 21 June Half-term begins: Travel day

Tuesday 3 July Boarders return by 18:00

Tuesday 7 August 17:00: Final Assembly (Compulsory attendance)

Wednesday 8 August Travel day

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Term 3 Wednesday 5 September – Wednesday 5 December

Balloon Week Monday 8 October – Thursday 11 October

Half-Term Thursday 11 October – Monday 15 October

Tuesday 4 September Boarders return by 18:00

Wednesday 5 September Classes begin

Monday 8 October Balloon Week commences

Thursday 11 October Half-term begins after the athletics

Monday 15 October Boarders return by 18:00

Wednesday 5 December 17:00: Final Assembly (Compulsory attendance)

Thursday 6 December Travel day

During the final week of Term 3, all the girls (except Matrics) go on their

outdoor education excursions. These are part of the school curriculum

and no permission to leave school early will be given.

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SECTION 1 SCHOOL STRUCTURE

CONTACT DETAILS

The switchboard operates from 07:30 to 16:30 on

weekdays. After hours and over weekends, the

answering machine will give the number of the

relevant person to contact.

Switchboard: 046 603 4300

Fax: 046 636 2363

MEMBERS OF STAFF

Head of School: Ms Shelley Frayne

Deputy Head: Junior School Ms Barbara Hibbert

Deputy Head: Pupil Affairs Mr David Wright

Deputy Head: Academic Ms Dionne Redfern

Chaplain: Fr Rob Penrith

Business Manager: Mr Dave Jarvis

Financial Manager: Ms Penny York

Senior Housemistress: Ms Nozuko Konjwa

San: Sr Tania Montauge Sr Louise Rischbeter

Clinical Psychologist: Ms Mandy Thacker

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Educational Psychologist: Ms Jane Jarvis

Sport: Mr Chris Hibbert

Librarian: Ms Cynthia Gambiza-Nyama

Community Engagement: Rev. Sue Paton

PA to Headmistress: Ms Angela Southey

Finance Office: Ms René Griesel-Crouse Reception: Ms Dean Bridger

Ms Nonesi Zonke

Admissions: Ms Lisa Hobson Marketing: Ms Vanessa Bowes

Travel: Ms Ann Bryan

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HOUSES

Crewe Espin Knowling Merriman Grade 8 House

Housemistress Housemistress Housemistress Housemistress Housemistress

Ms Nozuko Konjwa [email protected]

Ms Cheryl Flanagan [email protected]

Ms Juli Norton

[email protected] Ms Shelley Stretton

[email protected] Ms Kim Barker

[email protected]

Deputy Deputy Deputy Deputy Deputy

Ms Sandra Marques [email protected]

Ms Lesego Libisi [email protected]

Ms Monica Ives [email protected]

Ms Jayne Euvrard [email protected]

Ms Morgan Collins [email protected]

Ms Tami Maiwashe [email protected]

Housemother Housemother Housemother Housemother Housemother

Ms Maureen Bowles [email protected]

Ms Liezel Strydom

[email protected] Ms Lucille Collins

[email protected]

Ms Louise vd Merwe [email protected]

Ms Sharon Thomas [email protected]

GRADE HEADS Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Mr Wesley Deintje [email protected]

Ms Louise Todd [email protected]


Mr Mark Evans [email protected]

Dr Petra Gentz [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]



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TUTORS 2018

CREWE ESPIN KNOWLING MERRIMAN

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Ms Nozuko Konjwa [email protected]

Ms Sue Skipper [email protected]

Ms Lindsay Davy [email protected]

Ms Cheryl Flanagan [email protected]

Ms Leza-Mari Schoeman [email protected]

Mr Clinton York [email protected]

Ms Jane Jarvis [email protected]

Mr Dominic Marx [email protected]

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Mr Mark Evans [email protected]

Ms Jenny Kingwill [email protected]

Ms René Ferreira [email protected]

Ms Denise Strydom [email protected]

Ms Nontando Mlilo [email protected]


Ms Vivian Kayumba [email protected]

Ms Margie McLeod [email protected]

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Dr Petra Gentz [email protected]

Ms Lesego Libisi [email protected]

Ms Tami Maiwashe [email protected]

Ms Lizzie Rennie [email protected]

Ms Juli Norton [email protected]

Ms Michelle Mason [email protected]

Ms Shelley Stretton [email protected]

Ms Morgan Collins [email protected]

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Ms Wendy Boynton [email protected]

Ms Louise Todd [email protected]

Mr Benji Euvrard [email protected] Ms Louella Sullivan [email protected]

Mrs Susan Baker [email protected]

Ms Christelle Hutchinson [email protected]

Ms Thea Steele [email protected]

Mr Ntokozo Biyela [email protected]

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Mr Wesley Deintje [email protected]

Ms Sandra Marques [email protected]

Dr Ingrid Foster [email protected]

Ms Monica Ives [email protected]

Ms Nicol Gowar [email protected]

Ms Cynthia Gambiza-Nyama [email protected]

Ms Shelly Roodt [email protected]

Rev. Sue Paton [email protected]































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SECTION 2

RULES OF CONDUCT

1 SCHOOL JURISDICTION

The rules and regulations described in this Handbook apply to girls:

when on the school campus and on the campus of St Andrew’s

College;

when on visits, day trips, school tours, any school-sanctioned activity

and/or on any occasions when pupils are representing the school or

can be identified as being a pupil of the school whether in uniform or

not;

during term, half-term, on study leave or during work experience;

when travelling to and from school.

The school reserves the right to investigate and impose sanctions for any

misconduct by any girl at any time beyond the bounds of the school day,

week or term where such misconduct prejudices the reputation of the school

or compromises the welfare of the school community. This includes the

misuse of social media and poor behaviour that may be witnessed and/or

reported to the school.

Whilst these rules and regulations set out a level of response that is normally

appropriate for misconduct, members of staff are always expected to

exercise judgement according to the individual circumstances of the case.

Special or individual circumstances might lead to a lesser or greater sanction

being set. Repeat offending is likely to incur a harsher sanction than would be

given for a first offence.

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2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

DSG is committed to maintaining a safe, supportive environment within

which all girls can feel safe, secure and valued.

2.1 The Head, staff and caregivers have oversight of the rules and

regulations outlined in this Handbook for the promotion of a safe

environment and of good behaviour. The rules and regulations are kept

under review.

2.2 The Head is responsible for the implementation of the day-to-day

management of the rules and regulations.

2.3 Staff, including teachers, support staff and volunteers, are

responsible for ensuring the rules and regulations are followed consistently

and fairly applied. This handbook defines the powers of staff to respond to

misconduct when it occurs.

2.4 Girls are responsible for their own behaviour. They should be fully

aware of the rules and regulations set out in this Handbook as well as the

school’s policies. Girls have a responsibility to report incidences of disruption

of classes, violence, bullying and any form of harassment or discrimination.

Girls are expected to accept sanctions with good grace.

2.5 The Matrics are expected to conduct themselves with integrity and

dignity, serving as role models to younger girls and upholding the rules and

regulations set out in this Handbook.

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3 RESPONSE TO BREACH OF SCHOOL RULES

LEVEL 1: Demerit. Demerits may be given by any member of staff for what

are deemed to be misdemeanours. Three demerits will result in

detention.

LEVEL 2: Detention. Notwithstanding the above, detention may be given for

more serious offences. A straight detention will also incur a

weekend gating. Three detentions will result in referral to the Head,

a letter to the parents and be put on file.

LEVEL 3: Reported to the Deputy Head (pupil affairs). The Deputy Head will

impose an appropriate sanction. A letter will be written to the

parents and a report placed on file.

Sanctions for Level 3 offences include but are not limited to

detention, gating for a specified time, community service and a

warning.

LEVEL 4: Disciplinary Hearing: In a case of serious misconduct, the girl will be

required to present herself at a disciplinary hearing in accordance

with the school’s disciplinary process (see Discipline Policy).

Sanction will be decided by those chairing the hearing.

Sanction for Level 4 offences can include one or more of the

following:

A written warning to be placed on file;

A final written warning to be placed on file;

Close gating;

Community service on or off the school premises;

Suspension from leadership positions;

Suspension from boarding;

Expulsion from boarding;

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Suspension from the DSG;

Expulsion from the DSG.

LEVEL 5: In certain cases, the school may choose to involve the police. Should an investigation of an offence yield additional information, the

response may be escalated to another level.

4 OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE

If serious misconduct has occurred, girls are expected to be helpful to the

staff conducting the investigation. Girls will face sanction up to expulsion if

they:

willfully conceal important information and/or evidence

delete important electronic information/evidence on computers,

smartphones, iPads and/or any electronic device

Should a girl withhold permission for a reasonable request (such as

accessing information on a cell phone), the girl will be deemed to be

obstructing justice. If deemed necessary, external experts may be asked to

gain access to the required information.

If it is found that records have been destroyed, the girl may face further

charges/allegations related to the obstruction of justice and/or dishonesty.

The degree of cooperation offered by a girl facing investigation may be

taken into account in determining the severity of the sanction(s) imposed.

5 SERIOUS MISCONDUCT

DSG girls are not permitted to engage in any of the following actions.

Behaviour that is deemed to have contravened these rules will be regarded

as serious misconduct and will be reported to the Head and/or Deputy

Head(s) and/or the Head of Discipline who will take appropriate action.

Level 4 sanctions will be imposed and if deemed necessary, Level 5

sanctions.

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1. Any acts prohibited by the laws of South Africa and/or in violation of the laws of South Africa.

2. Any criminal activity that might result in a conviction;

3. Purchasing; bringing onto the school property (or any place in Grahamstown); being in possession of; using (which includes testing positive for any of the items described below or being intoxicated as a result of the intake of such substances) and/or distributing:

any tobacco products

alcohol or products containing alcohol

substances prohibited or regulated by law, such as drugs

steroids or any performance-enhancing drugs

prescription drugs for purposes other than so prescribed

anything illegal

any mood-altering substances A girl will be deemed to be in breach of this rule if she purchases

the above in any location during the term or over half-term. She

will be deemed to be in possession of any of the above should

items be found in any area belonging to her or over which she

has unfettered access. This includes but is not limited to her

clothing, her locker, her school bag, her sports bag or any of her

possessions.

4. Any form of initiation or behaviour that may cause hurt and/or humiliation. This includes but is not limited to harmful behaviour that is:

physical

psychological

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verbal – this includes but is not limited to any demeaning, insulting, offensive, or discriminatory language

cyber-bullying, including messages sent by phone and posts on social media

hate speech

5. Fighting and/or bullying and/or any form of intimidation –including but not limited to physical, psychological, cyber bullying

6. Any form of prejudice and/or hate speech. This includes but is not limited to:

Racism

sexism

sexual orientation

references to language spoken

references to class

references to religion

7. Inducing another to become a ‘buck’ or accepting the position of ‘buck’ or any similar position. Claiming authority over another girl outside the formal leadership structures of the school on grounds of tradition or any other reason, or inducing others to do the same;

8. Bunking out/ breaking bounds/ being on the St Andrew’s College campus outside the approved times. Entering any area of a boarding house at St Andrew’s College;

9. Truancy from school or any lesson or school activity at which the girl’s attendance is compulsory, including Chapel. Going to the San for trivial reasons and/or remaining in the House will be considered to be truancy;

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10. Copying or any form of cheating in any test, exam or project. This includes plagiarism: any work submitted for assessment must be the girl’s own work. This applies to homework/ coursework/ examinations and internal assessments. Girls who submit work copied from elsewhere as their own, be it from a peer, text source, internet or any other source, should expect sanction;

11. Disrupting any lessons and/or stopping and/or interfering with the learning of others in the class;

12. Infringing the DSG ITC policy including computer hacking, bypassing the DSG’s firewall or using software that attempts to hide or cloak the user’s identity or the destination;

13. Using abusive language, being rude or showing defiance to a member of staff;

14. Harassing any member of staff or willfully making a malicious allegation against a member of staff;

15. Lying, dishonesty or any form of duplicity. This includes lying to a teacher about the whereabouts of another girl or covering for her during rollcall or other activities; (see also Obstruction of Justice);

16. Failing to tell the truth as part of the investigative process or during a hearing. This includes tampering with evidence such as deleting information on electronic devices and/or withholding passwords for electronic devices and/or attempting to get rid of evidence and/or hiding evidence;

17. Theft that occurs in any place where a girl is under the authority of the school: on the DSG campus; on the St Andrew’s College campus; anywhere in Grahamstown where girls are legitimately required to be as part of a school activity and/or on any sanctioned school tour or excursion; anywhere where a girl is

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wearing the DSG uniform or parts of it, or where she may be identified as a girl of the school even if not in uniform.

Theft includes but is not limited to:

appropriating property without the explicit permission of the owner;

having in her possession another’s property without the explicit permission of the owner;

unlawfully possessing property;

appropriating any item that is the property of the school without the explicit permission of the school’s authority.

18 Fraud or criminal deception or dishonesty, tantamount to theft,

including unauthorised use of credit cards, debit cards or the log

in code of another girl or member of staff;

19 Inappropriate sexual activity, including but not limited to sexual intercourse, sexual harassment, sexual abuse, rape, possessing, viewing or circulating any material deemed by those in authority to be pornographic on school premises or within a school context;

20 Assault and/or harassment;

21 Possessing and/or using any weapons, dangerous toys or

offensive weapons. An offensive weapon is any article made or

adapted for use to cause injury to a person or intended for such

use (including laser pens);

22 Reckless and dangerous behaviour that places others at risk, even when the intention was not malicious;

23 Graffiti, vandalism and/or the destruction of school and/or other people’s property;

24 Public indecency;

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25 Blackmail and/or extortion;

26 Failure to report serious acts of misconduct and/or to assist or cooperate in the investigation of serious and major acts of misconduct;

27 Offensive language or conduct to a member of the public by a girl who can be identified as a girl at DSG;

28 Any action that is sufficiently serious to destroy the relationship of trust between the DSG and the girl;

29 Any deliberate or negligent act that by its consequences brings the name of the DSG into disrepute;

30 Repeated and/or deliberate infringement of any of the school rules, policies or protocols;

31 Refusing to accept the authority of the DSG and/or undermining, deliberately or otherwise, the stated goals and/or rules of the school and/or gross insubordination.

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ALCOHOL

DSG has a zero tolerance policy to alcohol use

No alcohol or substances containing alcohol may be brought onto the school property or that of St Andrew’s College.

No alcohol may be consumed by any girl on the school property or on the property of St Andrew’s College or on any school tour or on any school-sanctioned event or while on Exchange.

Girls may not have in their possession containers that have been used to store alcohol at any time.

Girls may not consume alcohol on the day they return to school.

Any girl who brings the name of the school into disrepute through behaviour

related to alcohol consumption will face disciplinary action.

It is the pupil’s duty to refuse liquor offered in contravention of the rules.

Any breach of these rules will be considered to be a serious offence and

subject to the strongest sanction.

No alcohol or substances containing alcohol may be

brought onto the school property or that of St Andrew’s

College.

No alcohol may be consumed by any girl on the school

property or on the property of St Andrew’s College or on

any school tour or while on Exchange or on any school

sanctioned activity.

Girls may not have containers used to store alcohol in their

possession.

Alcohol may not be consumed during term time, even if the

girl is with her parents or another responsible adult.

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TOBACCO/MOOD-ALTERING SUBSTANCES

No tobacco products or mood-altering substances may be brought

onto the school property or that of St Andrew’s College or be kept in

the Grahamstown area;

No tobacco products or mood-altering substances may be used

by any girl on the school property or on the property of St

Andrew’s College or in Grahamstown.

No tobacco products or mood-altering substances may be used

by any girl during the term or over half term or on weekend

exeats or on school excursions or tours or any school sanctioned

activities.

Girls may not have in their possession any paraphernalia

associated with tobacco products or mood-altering substances.

This includes but is not limited to loose tobacco, cigarette papers,

rolling machines.

No tobacco or mood-altering substances may be used by a girl at

any time where she may be identified as a pupil at DSG, whether

or not she is in uniform.

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6 PASTORAL CARE

When girls hear of, see or are involved in serious misconduct, as described

above, and would like help, there are several people they can turn to. They

can speak to their tutor, their housemistress, the san sister or the school

psychologists – anyone with whom she feels most comfortable. The clinical

and educational psychologists are bound by confidentiality. Anonymity can

be maintained by dropping a note into the box outside the clinical

psychologist’s office.

7 GENERAL RULES and EXPECTATIONS

7.1 DRESS

a. Girls must wear the correct uniform at school, on the way to and from

school and at any event when representing the school off campus.

b. Gyms must be an appropriate length.

c. Stockings and tights must not be laddered.

d. Shoes must be in good condition and be polished.

e. No white or coloured jerseys may be worn under the brown school jersey.

f. White jerseys are not to be worn with sports uniform.

g. White rain jackets can only be worn if it is raining.

7.2 APPEARANCE

7.2.1 HAIR

As a general rule, hair must not be cut, coloured or tied in such a way that it

attracts negative attention.

a. Hair must be neat and tidy and be kept away from the face. This includes braided hair.

b. The colour of hair may not be changed to an unnatural shade.

c. Accessories must be white, brown, green or silver.

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d. Dreadlocks are to be neat and tied up away from the face.

e. Cornrows must be straight back and neat.

f. Extensions must be the colour of the natural hair and be an

appropriate length as determined by the Housemistress.

g. Hair touching the shoulders must be tied up.

7.2.2 MAKEUP

a. Make-up and coloured nail polish may only be worn with civvies and

for dances and socials.

b. Clear nail polish may be worn at other times.

c. Long false nails of any description are not permitted.

7.2.3 JEWELLERY

Jewellery may only be worn on Sundays and for socials and dances. Permitted at all times: * Small cross or St Christopher on a thin chain; * Medical bracelet (the San Sister is to be notified in this regard); * Plain studs or sleepers or small- to medium-sized pearls. No

diamonds. No piercings are accepted other than one earing in each earlobe.

Any other items will be confiscated.

7.3. BEHAVIOUR

Chewing gum is forbidden whenever a girl is in uniform.

7.3.1 Girls are required to:

a. be punctual for all school activities such as classes, extramural

activities, sports practices and matches, and outings;

b. attend all extra-mural activities for which they have signed up. If unable to attend, they must excuse themselves well in advance;

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c. keep the campus free from litter. This includes but is not limited to classrooms, Houses, the gardens, the sports fields and the aquatic centre;

d. read and respond to the Daily Notice.

7.3.2 Girls are expected to:

a. be courteous and respectful to all members of staff, irrespective of position held at the school;

b. greet all adults and visitors on the campus and that of St

Andrew’s College;

c. respect the property and rules of St Andrew’s College and any place that is visited, whether as part of a school activity or as individuals;

d. abide by the school’s Code of Conduct.

7.3.3 In public places, when in school uniform, girls are:

a. governed by school rules and policies;

b. expected to be considerate towards other members of the public and behave in a way that brings credit to themselves and the school.

7.4 CHAPEL

DSG is an Anglican school. While we welcome girls of different faiths,

chapel services are compulsory for all girls. Missing chapel services is

taken seriously and the first instance of missing a service will incur a Level

2 sanction. Repeated offences will be elevated to Level 3 sanction. The

following are included:

the Chaplain’s period in each cycle;

the week-day morning services;

Corporate Communion Services;

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Sunday services (boarders). Only those who have signed out for a

sleep-out may miss a morning service. Girls may not go out for the

day before the Sunday morning service.

Dress for Sunday services: uniform as specified or civvies as

approved by the Chaplain. When civvies are permitted, girls are

expected to dress appropriately, according dignity to the place and

purpose of Chapel. No shorts are permitted and shoulders must be

covered.

7.5 CLASSROOMS

The classroom will be governed by the individual teacher holding the

class. The teacher in charge of the class will take responsibility for the

class and impose sanctions for breach of the rules. However, repeated

offences will be elevated to Level 3 sanction.

7.5.1 In the classroom, there is an expectation that:

a. girls will behave in a way that will allow learning in an environment

that fosters mutual respect between staff and pupils and between

pupils. Any disruptions in the classroom are unacceptable as they

prevent other pupils from learning;

b. girls will arrive on time and be prepared for the lesson with the

correct books and notes and iPads charged. A first offence will incur

a warning but sanction will be elevated for repeat offences;

c. notes will be filed and homework diaries kept;

d. if a lesson is missed for any reason (illness, sport, etc.) it is the

responsibility of the girl to find out what has been missed and catch

up the work;

e. a permission slip or email will be provided for a missed lesson;

f. if a teacher does not arrive for a lesson, this will be reported to the

Admin Office within five minutes of the start of the lesson.

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Attendance at all classes is compulsory. Failure to attend class without

permission will be deemed to be truancy and serious misconduct, as

described under Section 3.

8 MOBILE DEVICES

(Cell phones/smart phones/tablets)

The ITC Policy gives the rules pertaining to the use of mobile devices. All

girls are expected to have read the policy and be aware of its contents.

The school reserves the right to confiscate and search phones and other

electronic devices if the owner is suspected of Serious Misconduct or

there is a reasonable suspicion that the device may contain evidence of

Serious Misconduct.

Contravention of the rules may result in the confiscation of the

device for a period determined by the teacher in charge.

9 OUT OF BOUNDS

Breaking bounds is regarded in a very serious light. Girls found to be out

of bounds during the day on the DSG campus will in the first instance be

given a warning and a Level 1 or 2 sanction imposed. Sanction for repeat

offences will be elevated to Level 3.

Being off the DSG campus before supper will in the first instance incur a

Level 3 sanction. Repeat offences will be reported to the Head and the girl

may be required to attend a disciplinary hearing.

Breaking bounds on or off the DSG campus after supper may incur up to a

Level 4 sanction, as the girl is putting her safety at risk.

The following areas are out of bound:

a. The Junior School campus (girls may cross the campus to access the dance studio).

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b. The music school, unless authorised to be there for official commitments.

c. All classrooms and passageways after the conclusion of formal lessons, unless with permission.

d. The sports fields, courts, aquatic centre and outdoor swimming pool unless for specified training or formal sports fixtures.

e. St Andrew’s College except during official lesson times, unless with permission.

f. Rhodes University campus except for those who live on the campus or an authorised outing has been arranged. ‘The campus’ refers to the area between African Street, Somerset Street and Lucas Avenue.

g. Any student digs or accommodation.

h. For boarders, any home in Grahamstown when an adult is not present.

i. A day girl’s home without prior permission.

j. Anywhere off campus, if not signed out.

10 DETENTION

Detention will take place in Josie Wood on Friday afternoons from 15:00 –

18:00.

a. Detention takes precedence over every activity. Only the Head of

Discipline or the Deputy Head can excuse a girl from detention.

b. Any member of staff can give a demerit and demerits can be given

for any breach of school rules.

c. Demerits accumulate over the course of the year.

d. Three demerits will result in detention.

e. Three detentions or more will be reported to the Head, and a letter

will be sent to parents and placed on the girl’s file.

f. For more serious offences, a straight detention can be given. In

such instances, the girl will also be gated for the weekend.

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11. OPEN CAMPUS

1.1 TIMES:

Monday – Friday 16:00-17:00

Sunday 15:00-17:00

1.2 BOUNDS

a. The DSG campus except the Junior School grounds.

b. Grade 8 and 9 girls are restricted to the DSG campus.

c. Grade 10, 11 and 12 girls may visit the St Andrew’s College

campus in the tuckshop quad only.

d. When it is raining, the campus will not be open.

e. No pupils are allowed inside the buildings or classrooms.

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SECTION 3

DAILY ROUTINES For academic purposes, the school works on a two-week cycle (Week A and

Week B) as shown in the school calendar. Other activities have a weekly

routine. Teaching periods are 45 or 50 minutes long, with seven-minute breaks

for moving to the next class. There is one lesson after lunch every day except

Wednesdays, when there are clubs.

Daily Routine

06:00 Rising bell

06:30 Breakfast

07:15 Register period (Monday and Thursday)

07:30 Classes start

13:05 Lunch for Grades 10 to 12

13:20 Lunch for Grades 8 to 9

14:05 Afternoon lesson

15:00 Sport and other afternoon activities

16:00 - 17:00 Open campus

17:00 Early prep/cultural activities

18:00 Supper (Grades 10 to 12)

18:15 Supper (Grades 8 and 9)

19:00 Prep

20:30 Roll Call

21:00 Grade 8 and 9: Lights out. Silence to be observed

22:00 Grades 10: Lights out. Silence to be observed

Grades 11 and 12: Silence to be observed

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Saturdays

07:00 Breakfast

08:00 Sports matches

10:00 Town leave if no matches

12:50 Roll call

13:00 Lunch

18:00 Supper

20:30 Roll Call

Sundays

08:20 Tea and rusks

08:45 Roll Call

09:00 Chapel, if there is a morning service

Breakfast, if no Chapel service

09:45 Breakfast after morning Chapel

13:00 Lunch

13:15 – 15:00 Quiet time

15:00 Town leave permitted

15:00 – 17:00 Open campus

18:00 Return to school from exeats

Supper

19:00 Chapel, if there is an evening service

20:00 Dormitory Inspection

20:30 Roll Call

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THE SCHOOL DAY

Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

06:30 BREAKFAST

07:15 TUTOR PERIOD TUTOR PERIOD

Week A Week B

Mo

n Tues Wed Thurs Fri Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri

07:30 Period

1

Cycle

Test

Cycle

Test

08:20

Period

2

09:15

Period

3

10:05 BREAK

10:40

Period

4

11:30

Period

5

12:25

Period

6

CD

/PR

EP/

CU

LTU

RA

L

ASS

EMB

LY

CH

AP

EL

TUTO

R

ASS

EMB

LY

CH

AP

EL

TUTO

R

13:05 LUNCH/REST

14:05 Period

7

CLUBS CLUBS

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15:00 DETENTION

15:00 SPORT

16-17:00 OPEN CAMPUS

17:00 CULTURAL/ PREP

18:00 SUPPER: Grades 10–12

18:15 SUPPER: Grades 8 and 9

19:00 PREP/CULTURAL

20:30 ROLL CALL

21:00 GRADE 8 and 9: LIGHTS OUT and SILENCE

22:00 GRADES 10: LIGHTS OUT and SILENCE

GRADES 11 and 12: SILENCE

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SECTION 4

LEAVING THE DSG CAMPUS

EVERY TIME A BOARDER LEAVES THE DSG CAMPUS (EXCEPT DURING

THE COURSE OF THE NORMAL SCHOOL DAY) SHE MUST BE SIGNED

OUT OF THE HOUSE WHEN SHE LEAVES AND MUST BE SIGNED BACK IN

ON RETURN

4.1 WITH PARENTS

4.1.1 WEEKEND SLEEP-OUTS

a. A sleep-out is a weekend away from the school.

b. Sleep-outs are granted from Friday 15:00 to Sunday 18:00.

c. Friday sleep-outs are granted on condition that all school commitments

on Fridays and Saturdays are honoured. Failure to do so will result in

disciplinary action being taken.

ONLY THE HEAD OR DEPUTY HEAD IS ABLE TO GRANT PERMISSION TO MISS

FRIDAY AFTERNOON AND/OR SATURDAY COMMITMENTS.

Girls travelling on school or public transport are subject to all

school rules.

All girls, when leaving the campus must be in formal uniform

or chinos. This applies to girls leaving the campus for sleep-

outs during the school term and when leaving the campus at

the end of term and at the beginning of half-term. Girls must

also wear formal dress or chinos when arriving back at school

after the holidays and half-term, whether travelling on public

or private transport.

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Number of Sleep-Outs

a. Each girl is allowed two sleep-out weekends in Terms 1 and 3.

b. In Term 2, girls are allowed three sleep-outs.

c. It is recommended that the sleep-outs be taken either side of half-term.

d. Matrics are granted one additional sleep-out weekend in Terms 1 and 3.

e. Girls may take up to three friends on a sleep-out.

Permission for Sleep-Outs

a. Sleep-outs will only be granted with a written request from the parent

or guardian.

b. Written requests (emailed) from the parents must reach the

Housemistress by 20:00 on the Thursday preceding the requested sleep-

out.

c. A maximum of three guests may be invited out at a time. For special

occasions, refer to section 4.4.

d. Parents or hosts must sign the pupil out and back into the House.

e. If friends have been invited for a sleep-out, written permission from

the parents/ hosts and the friends’ parents must be received by the

Housemistress no later than the preceding Thursday evening.

4.1.2 SATURDAY AND SUNDAY EXEATS

Girls may go out for the day on either a Saturday or a Sunday, but not

both (any exceptions made will be at the discretion of the

Housemistress)

The following rules apply:

a. All school commitments must be honoured.

b. If there is a morning Chapel service, girls may only leave after the

service.

c. If there is no morning service, girls may go out from 08:00.

d. Girls must return to school by 18:00.

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e. Girls may take up to three friends out for the day, with written

permission from the friends’ parents.

f. Girls must be signed in and out by the adult who is hosting them for

the day.

4.1.3 OUTINGS DURING THE WEEK

While girls may go out during the week, we strongly recommend that

the number of these exeats be limited. Girls, especially those new to

the school, need to be integrated into their peer group and too many

exeats can disrupt this process.

DRESS: FORMAL UNIFORM

Evening Outings

a. Girls may go out in the evening with their parents or a relative by prior

arrangement: a request must be received by the Housemistress at least

24 hours prior to the outing.

b. Such outings may take place between 18:30 and 20:30.

c. Girls must be signed both out and in by their parent or host.

d. Formal uniform to be worn.

e. No friends may be invited.

Lunch Outings

a. Girls may go to town for lunch between 13:05 and 14:05 with their

parents or relatives, with permission from the Housemistress.

b. Girls must return in time for their afternoon class (no exceptions made).

c. Girls’ parents or host must sign them both out and in.

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4.1.4 BIRTHDAYS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS

a. Girls may take a group of friends out for lunch, supper or the weekend.

b. Permission must be obtained from the Deputy Head.

c. All friends’ parents and the hosts must give written permission for their

daughter to partake in such a function.

THE HOST PARENT MUST BE PRESENT AT THE FUNCTION

4.2 CLOSED WEEKENDS

During a closed weekend, pupils may not take sleep-outs.

4.2.1 THE FIRST WEEKEND OF TERM

a. Town leave as per normal school rules.

b. Parents may take girls out for lunch or dinner.

c. Girls may take up to three friends out for lunch or dinner with their

parents.

d. Over-boarder pupils may take a Saturday night sleep-out with

permission from the Deputy Head.

4.2.2 RHODES O-WEEK, INCLUDING THE WEEKEND

a. No sleep-outs

b. No evening town leave

c. No visits to any home in Grahamstown

d. Saturday and Sunday town leave during the day as usual

4.2.3 NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WEEKEND

Girls may take sleep-outs with their parents (no guests).

4.2.4 DSG/ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE DANCES

No sleep-outs on the night of the dance.

4.2.5 K-DAY

No Friday sleep-outs are permitted.

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4.3 WRITTEN PERMISSION REQUIRED

a. For a girl to invite a friend for half-term or a sleep-out weekend, from

the friend’s parents and the hosts.

b. For a lift, other than with parents. During the term, no girl may be

driven by a driver under the age of 23 years.

Information should be emailed to the Housemistress by the Thursday

before the weekend.

4.4 RESTRICTIONS

a. No girl may be collected by someone under the age of 23 unless it is her

brother or sister who has been so authorised by her parents in a letter

to the school.

b. Girls may not visit private homes without the permission of the host

parent. The Housemistress reserves the right to deny this privilege.

c. Girls are not permitted to visit student digs.

DAY GIRLS who host boarders on leave-outs or sleep-outs must familiarise

themselves with the rules.

4.5 GIRLS’ OUTINGS

4.5.1 OFF-CAMPUS LEAVE

Girls are permitted to go out (in groups of at least three) at the

following times:

Saturday (Formal uniform) 10:00 – 12:30 (if no sports fixtures) 18:30 – 20:30: Grades 10 – 12, at the discretion of the Housemistress

Sunday (Civvies) Grade 8 – 10: 15:00 – 17:00 Grades 11 – 12: 12:45 – 17:00

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Boundaries

Girls must be in groups of three

Girls are permitted to go to Peppergrove Mall.

Permission must be obtained from the Housemistress if a girl needs to go anywhere else in Grahamstown.

Girls are to familiarize themselves with the permitted routes to take (obtainable from the Housemistress).

4.5.2 MID-WEEK EXEATS

Matrics may go to town on Wednesdays from 15:00–17:00

Girls may request permission from their Housemistress, the Head or the Deputy Head for additional town leave in exceptional circumstances.

4.5.3 TUTOR OUTINGS

Tutor outings are arranged at the discretion of the tutor; they are not a right and may not necessarily be arranged as a matter of course.

School uniform is to be worn.

4.5.4 OUTRUNS

Girls may leave the school campus to go on out-runs.

a. Girls must be in groups of three or more (Matrics may run in pairs); b. Girls must sign out of their House and with the member of staff on

duty at the main gate; c. Girls must remain on the permitted route as specified by the

Director of Sport; d. Dress: sport uniform; e. Time: 16:30–17:30 f. No earphones g. No outruns permitted during O-week, the National Arts Festival or

when the girls’ safety is deemed to be at risk.

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4.5.5 VISITS TO THE BEAUTICIAN Girls are permitted to make appointments with the following:

a. Siya (Corner of Somerset and African Streets)

Times: Monday to Friday 15:00 – 17:00 Saturday 08:00 – 13:00

Dress: Skorts or tracksuits (unless not coming directly back to school. In such cases, uniform must be worn).

Requirements: a. The Housemistress must be informed of the

appointment in advance b. Girls must go in pairs c. Girls must sign out

b. Sheena Price

Times: Monday to Friday 15:00 – 19:00 (Matrics to 20:00) Saturday 08h00 – 13h00

Dress: Skorts or tracksuits (unless not coming directly back to school. In such cases, uniform must be worn).

Requirements: a. The Housemistress must be informed of the

appointment in advance, and be confirmed by Ms Price

b. Written permission from parents to be transported in Ms Price’s vehicle

c. Girls must sign out All other appointments must be made during normal town leave times.

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SECTION 5

GENERAL INFORMATION

5.1. CLOTHING EXCHANGE and BOOKROOM

Monday to Thursday: 10:00–10:30 13:00–14:00 15:00–15:30 Friday: 10:00–10:30

5. 2. DANCES

DSG holds three formal dances each year:

The Matric dance in Term 1, organised by the Grade 11s.

The ante-matric dance: for Matrics and Grade 11s, organised by the Grade 10s.

Prefects’ dance: for the Grade 10–12 girls, organised by the prefects.

5.2.1 ARRANGEMENTS FOR DANCES

a. Permission must be obtained from the Head to bring partners who

are not St Andrew’s College pupils.

b. Permission must be obtained from the Head to bring anyone other

than parents and partner to the Matric pre-dance drinks (18:00 in

the Chapel quad).

c. Girls may sleep out on the Friday before the Matric dance. This is

considered to be an open weekend; a sleep-out taken on the Friday

evening will not count as a sleep-out.

Normal sleep-out rules apply.

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d. No sleep-outs may be taken on the night of the DSG, St Andrew’s

College, Kingswood College or any other school’s dances.

e. Boarders are required to get ready for the dance in their own Houses and must have checked into the House by 16:00.

f. Day girls must be in their Houses at 17:30 on the day of the dance

for a dress check with the boarders.

g. All girls (including day girls) must have their names checked off

on the House lists before going to the dance.

h. No girl may be driven to any dance by a person who is 23 years old

or younger. Parents must give written permission for a girl to be

driven to any dance by anyone other than the parent.

i. No girl may leave during the dance without the permission of

the member of staff on duty.

j. After the dance, all boarders are to return their Houses in the

transport provided, and have their names checked off. Girls

must be back in the House fifteen minutes after the dance has

ended. Parents or responsible adults should fetch day girls.

Boarders must sleep in their House.

2.2 WHO MAY ATTEND DANCES?

Grades 10, 11 and 12 girls may attend dances.

Girls in Grades 10, 11 and 12, if their parents approve, may be granted

special permission by the Headmistress to attend a dance where there

is no DSG group present. They must however, obtain the permission of

the Headmistress before accepting invitations to such dances.

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5.3. DAY GIRLS

5.3.1 ATTENDANCE AT FUNCTIONS

Day girls must attend compulsory functions such as Corporate

Communion, Youth Day, prize-giving, the interhouse gala and the

interhouse athletics.

Day girls are expected to attend sports functions such as 1st team

matches

For evening functions with the school, day girls must meet the

boarders at school. After the function, girls may either return to school

with the boarders, in which case parents can fetch them from their

Houses after the function, or permission may be obtained from the

escort to fetch them directly from the venue at the end of the

function.

5.3.2 NON-DSG ACTIVITIES

Day girls must obtain permission from the Headmistress before

accepting parts in non-DSG plays, concerts etc.

5.3.3 ABSENCE

A note explaining any absences from school or extramural activity is

required. The school must be notified by 08:00 if a day girl will not be

attending school.

5.3.4 DRESS To school and at school functions: The same dress rules apply to day

girls and boarders. This includes matches at St Andrew’s College or

other schools in Grahamstown.

Coming to and leaving school: Day girls wear normal school uniform.

When shopping in town: if not in civvies, day girls should wear school

uniform.

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5.3.5 TRANSPORT to SCHOOL DSG girls with a driver’s licence who wish to drive themselves to school

in their own car, must submit a copy of their licence to the school as

well as a letter of permission from their parents. Girls with licences

may not transport any DSG girl.

5.3.6 MEALS and BOARDING

Day girls may have meals in the dining hall with the boarders, if they

have signed up at the beginning of term to do so. They may not have

meals in the dining hall or stay over in the Houses unless arrangements

have been made with the school to do so.

5.3.7 NOTICES

As communication with day girls is sometimes a problem, day girls

must read the Daily Notice, notices on the day girls’ notice board and

any emails with information.

5.4 DINING HALL

a. Attendance at all meals is compulsory for boarders.

b. No pupil may enter the kitchen area.

c. Appropriate behaviour is expected in the dining hall.

d. Girls must wear school uniform or sports uniform to all meals

except Saturday dinner and Sunday meals, when civvies may be

worn. House hoodies may be worn to supper. No other dress or

pyjamas are permitted.

e. Shoes (not slippers) must be worn.

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5.5. UNIFORM

For classes, girls must wear the school uniform as outlined below. They may wear

sport uniform to the lesson after lunch on Mondays and Wednesdays. If the lesson

after lunch is on the St Andrew’s College campus, full tracksuits or skorts must be

worn. White shorts may be worn only on the DSG campus or on outruns only.

5.5.1 EVERYDAY UNIFORM

Summer Winter

School gym Girdle Shirt: white, short-sleeved Socks: short Shoes: brown lace-up or sandals. Jersey: long-sleeved or sleeveless, when necessary White Drimac (only when raining)

School gym Girdle Shirt: white, long–sleeved School tie Brown tights Brown trousers (optional) Shoes: brown lace-up School jersey: long-sleeved or sleeveless School coat Brown gloves School scarf

ALTERNATIVE UNIFORM

Chinos

DSG white sports shirt

Brown school jersey (if necessary)

White tackies (not Tomy tackies)

Chinos

White long-sleeved shirt and tie

Brown school jersey

Ankle-length brown boots with 40 mm

heel or lower, or school shoes

School coat or sports jacket

When? During Term 1 Term 3

When?

During Term 2 Optional until half-term in Term 3

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5.5.2 FORMAL UNIFORM

Formal Green: Summer Formal Brown: Winter

School gym Girdle Shirt: white, short-sleeved or long-sleeved with tie Stockings Jersey: white pullover, if necessary School blazer

School gym Girdle Shirt: white long-sleeved, with tie Brown tights White pullover: long-sleeved or sleeveless School coat Scarf

ALTERNATIVE UNIFORM (with prior permission)

Chinos DSG white sports shirt White jersey (if necessary) White tackies (not Tomy tackies)

Chinos White long-sleeved shirt and tie White jersey Ankle-length brown boots with heel 40 mm or lower, or school shoes School coat

When?

Leaving and returning to the DSG campus (holidays) Travelling on public transport

As directed

When?

As directed

5.5.3 SPORTS UNIFORM

Short-sleeved white DSG golf-shirt

Green skorts (white shorts are permitted as an extra)

Sports shoes (predominantly white, no Tomy tackies)

Tracksuit

Tracksuit pants may not be worn without a tracksuit top. On the DSG

campus, a tracksuit top may be worn with white shorts. On the SAC

campus, a full tracksuit or skorts must be worn.

No jerseys, white or brown, may be worn with the sports uniform.

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Matches: Tennis, squash, hockey and netball

As specified by the particular code

5.5.4 AQUATICS

Swimming cap

School swimming costume

Goggles

Towel

Club swimmers may swim in FINA-certified swim wear for galas

Caps must be worn when swimming

Caps may be house colours, DSG caps or club caps

Girls must be appropriately dressed on the way to or from swimming.

It is not permitted to walk from the aquatic centre to the House with

just a towel for cover.

5.5.5 DANCE (Contemporary and Ballet)

As specified by Ms Openshaw

5.5.6 CIVVIES

These may be worn on Sundays and in the Houses in the evenings.

Except for Sundays, civvies may not be worn off the DSG campus at any

time unless special permission to do so has been given.

5.5.7 DANCES

DRESS INSPECTION

If there is any doubt about the suitability of a dress, the housemistress

should be consulted before the time to avoid any unnecessary

complications. To this end, photographs of dresses (front, back and

sides) must be sent to the housemistress on the Monday before the

dance. Once the dress has been approved, it may not be changed

without informing the housemistress.

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An inspection of dresses will be held before the dance. Day girls are

required to attend the dress inspection in their respective Houses.

MATRIC DANCE (DSG AND SAC) AND ANTE-MATRIC DANCE (DSG)

Dress: White or off-white evening gown.

The dress should not be too revealing:

sides fully covered

lace bodices to be fully lined to be appropriate

cut-outs to be appropriate

no exposed midrifs

back to be cut no lower than the dimple

front no lower than the bra line

side slits no higher than mid-thigh

dresses no shorter than mid-thigh

not too tight (as determined by the Housemistress)

Shoes, Accessories and Trimmings: may be coloured

OTHER DANCES

The same criteria regarding what is appropriate dress apply, but dresses

may be coloured.

Dance dresses need to be approved by Housemistresses at least a week in

advance and Housemistresses have the authority to determine the

appropriateness of the dress. While every effort is made to accommodate a

girl’s choice, dresses that are deemed to be unsuitable will not be

permitted.

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5.6. LIBRARY

a. The library is open for general use between 07:30 and 20:30 on

weekdays.

b. Girls may work in the library during Prep if they have permission to

do so from the person on duty in the House.

c. Girls may use the St Andrew’s College library between 16:00 and

17:00 on weekdays.

5.7. LARGE GATHERINGS These refer to events such as but not limited to: Assembly, Chapel,

productions, guest speakers, special occasions such as Youth Day, and Prize-

Giving. The required behaviour also applies when at the theatre, during

speeches, etc. The following behaviour should be observed:

a. Dress: if formal, keep blazers on until invited to take them off or

until the Guest of Honour or MC does so.

b. Be punctual.

c. Sit up, face the front and look at the speaker.

d. Don’t change seats or leave early.

e. Don’t drink, eat or chew gum.

f. Don’t communicate with people around you.

g. Don’t use mobile devices.

h. Participate in what is happening and respond appropriately (e.g.,

laughter, applause, singing, etc.).

i. When leaving, stand back for guests.

j. If invited to the front to be congratulated, come up promptly and

ensure you are neat.

k. Shake hands firmly and stand close enough so that you don’t have to lean forward.

l. Look the person in the eye and acknowledge the congratulations.

When singing the National Anthem:

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a. Stand with your hands at your side or in front of you (don’t fold your arms).

b. If it is not your National Anthem and you do not wish to sing it, you should nevertheless stand to attention, out of respect.

5.8. ROLL CALL

Roll Call is taken in the Houses. Attendance is compulsory

Monday – Friday: 20:30

Saturday: 12:45 and 20:30

Sunday 08:45 and 20:30

5.9. SAN

Girls can go to the San at the following times:

During the week

07:00 – 07:20: Doctor’s clinic (By appointment only)

Break

13:30 – 14:00

15:00 – 15:30

Saturdays

07:30 – 10:00

17:30 – 18:00

Sundays

17:30 – 18:00

Any girl who comes to the San out of these hours must have a note

from a teacher or Housemistress/Housemother

5.10. SCHOOL PERIOD

Attendance at events scheduled during the school period is compulsory (Assembly, Chapel, Tutor, etc.)

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5.11. SPORT

Girls who are in Grades 8, 9 and 10 must participate in at least one summer sport and at least one winter team sport. Grades 11 and 12 are required to do a sport but this does not have to be a team sport. Girls are required to participate in a minimum of two hours of sport a week. All sport practices and matches are compulsory and girls may not miss sporting commitments on a Friday or Saturday to take a Friday sleep-out.

SUMMER

Athletics

Squash

Swimming

Tennis

Basketball

Water polo

Social Fitness / Pilates/Step up

WINTER

Hockey

Netball

Squash

Tennis

Swimming (A-squad)

Social Fitness /Pilates /step Up

Horse riding is recognised by the school but is outsourced to an external club.

Transport is arranged to take girls to the stables and bring them back to

school. The member of staff in charge of riding is Ms Shelly Roodt

([email protected]).

Pilates and step classes. These extra activities are for the parents’ account.

Girls also have the opportunity to go on outruns but these are not an

alternative to the sports programme.

5.12 DANCE

Ballet (RAD) and Contemporary Dance are offered on the school campus

where girls are prepared for external examinations and present

performances during the course of the year. This demanding discipline is

both a physical activity and an art form and requires a high level of


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commitment. For Grades 8 and 9, sport (in terms of the above) is

compulsory; girls may take dance as an extra activity and fit it into their

schedules. From Grade 10, girls may obtain permission from the Deputy

Head and/or Sports Director to take Dance as an alternative to sport.

Dance lessons are for the parents’ account.

5.13. TRANSPORT

The Travel Office is situated on the St Andrew’s College campus and is

headed up by Mrs Ann Bryan. She will make the half-term and end-of-term

travel bookings and arrange for transport to and from the Port Elizabeth

airport. Passports and air tickets should be handed in to Mrs Bryan when you

get to school; she will make sure that you have the necessary documents

when you need them again.

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SECTION 6

ACADEMIC ASSESSMENT

6.1 CASS AND PROMOTION MARK

The format for the Term 3 reports is in line with the new Matric (National

Senior Certificate) policy. In addition to recording your Term Order and your

November Exam Order, your report will include a CASS mark and a

promotion mark.

CASS stands for ‘Continuous Assessment’ and the mark is a reflection of your

performance across a range of assessment tasks throughout the year. Each

subject has its own requirements for arriving at this mark.

The Promotion Mark combines the CASS mark and the mark from the

November Exam Order.

In Grades 8 and 9, the ratio is: CASS 40%: Exam Order 60%

In Grades 10 – 12, the ratio is: CASS 25%: Exam Order 75%

In the Languages and those subjects with a practical component, the ratio is

50:50

6.2 PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS In Grades 8 and 9, the minimum requirement for promotion is that a pupil

must achieve marks of:

50% in three subjects, one of which is English Home language

AND

40% in three subjects, one of which is Mathematics

AND

30% in the First Additional Language

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55

Should the promotion requirements not be achieved, a Condonation

Committee will decide whether or not the pupil will be allowed to proceed

(ATP) to the next Grade under certain conditions.

In Grades 10 – 12, the minimum requirement for promotion is that a pupil

must achieve a promotion mark of:

40% in three subjects, one of which is English Home Language

AND

30% in three subjects

If the pupil gets less than 30%, the CASS requirements for that subject should

still be fulfilled.

Should the promotion requirements not be achieved, a Condonation

Committee will decide whether or not the pupil will be allowed to proceed

(ATP) to the next Grade under certain conditions.

6.3 APPLICATION MARKS

For all Term Orders, in addition to the marks you attained, you are awarded

application ratings for each subject. These are awarded on the basis of how

well you have applied yourself to your work. The points are awarded on a

four-point scale for the effort, interest and involvement you’ve shown. The

interpretation of these is shown below, and your application rating is shown

in your end-of-term report.

L: Lacking

O: Ordinary

P: Praiseworthy

R: Remarkable

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6.4 AWARDS

6.4.1 ACADEMIC

In addition to the awards made at Prize-Giving, academic awards may be

made during the course of the year.

Examinations missed for reasons other than documented illness will be noted

as DNW (Did not write). In the case of illness, a rank order based on the Term

Order will be given; in the case of a DNW, no rank order will be given.

Merit award for academic achievement in Grade 8 (certificate)

An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Examination Orders.


An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Examination Orders.


An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Examination Orders

Merit award with Half Colours for academic achievement (either in Grade 9

or in Grade 10) (Acorn badge plus certificate)

An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous

Assessment; Grades 8 and 9 OR Grades 9 and 10 Examination Orders

(Two consecutive years of such results to achieve an ACORN award)

Merit award with Colours for academic achievement in Grade 11 (Green academic badge and certificate) An average of 75–79% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Exam Orders

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Merit award with Academic Honours in Grade 11 (Oak leaf badge plus white

academic badge plus certificate)

An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous

Assessment; Grade 10 and 11 Examination Orders

6.4.2 SPORT

Sports awards are offered in the following categories:

Team

Half-Colours

Colours

Honours

Each sport has different criteria for the various awards. The specifications can

be found in the Sports Policy on our webpage: www.dsgschool.com.

6.4.3 CULTURAL

Commitment to cultural activities within the school is recognized and girls

may earn a CEMA award. Awards are offered in the following categories:

Commended

Highly Commended

Half Colours

Honours (only achieved by very few girls)

The specifications can be found on our webpage: www.dsgschool.com.

http://www.dsgschool.com/

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SECTION 7

POLICIES

The following policies are on the DSG website. It is the responsibility of pupils

to read all policies and to adhere to the terms and conditions outlined in

these policies. A lack of awareness of the conditions specified in these

policies will not be accepted as mitigation in the event of any breach of the

rules.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

CODE OF CONDUCT

DISCIPLINE POLICY

ICT POLICY (including social media and regulation of mobile

devices)

MEDICINES POLICY

SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY

SPORTS POLICY

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

TEST AND EXAM PROTOCOL

TOUR POLICY

WELLNESS POLICY

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