PROSPECTIVE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

PROSPECTIVE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

2 Leila Road Ormond Vic 3204 A.B.N. 79 117 529 932

Telephone: 9578 6231 PROVIDER CODE: 00149A

Facsimile: 9578 3378 CRICOS COURSE CODE: 005349G

KGS: Prospective International Students’ Handbook of 21 Provider Code: 00149A CRICOS Code: 005349G Updated July 2020 Updated July 2020

Contents Page Principal’s Welcome 3 Curriculum: Senior School 4

Curriculum: Junior School 5 Academic Results 6 Campus and Facilities 7 Term Dates 2020 9

Full Fee Paying Overseas Student Assessment of English Language Proficiency Policy 10 Business Regulations for FFPOS International Students (Enrolment Agreement) 12 Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation Policy 16 Accommodation Policy 17 Living Costs in Australia 21


Principal’s Welcome

WELCOME TO KILVINGTON!

Kilvington is an independent school in Melbourne with a friendly atmosphere, a strong sense of community

and a rich history, offering comprehensive education from the Early Learning Centre to VCE.

Situated on one campus in the Melbourne suburb of Ormond, our School has been closely linked to the local

community since it was founded in 1923. Thousands of students have completed their education at Kilvington,

becoming part of a vibrant Alumni network in Australia and overseas.

By learning within a rich and diverse coeducational environment, girls and boys gain broader opportunities

to achieve academically and to experience situations they will encounter in the real world, supporting

Kilvington’s goal of providing a comprehensive education within a safe and happy learning environment.

We are focused on the mind and heart, and believe in promoting the intellectual, emotional, physical, social

and spiritual development of each student.

A Kilvington education is based on four key pillars – Academic Excellence, Character, Community and Care.

These pillars are interdependent to help our students become thinking, strong, caring and respectful people

who once leaving school, will positively engage with and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

Our mission is to inspire students to strive for academic excellence, and to nurture their aspirations in a caring,

family-oriented community to become people of depth, strength, integrity and character.

Our vision is to be a school of excellence offering a holistic education to girls and boys, enabling them

to excel individually and contribute meaningfully to the world.

Jon Charlton Principal


Curriculum: Senior School

Senior School is a place of challenges, where students can build on their previously acquired skills, while

developing the resilience and maturity necessary to enter adulthood with confidence.

Students and staff work together towards shared learning outcomes while students are actively encouraged to

take more responsibility for their learning. Students are helped to gain a sense of place in the community at

School, and beyond, by learning how to act responsibly and ethically in cooperation with others.

Senior School is all about preparing our students for life beyond Kilvington’s boundaries, ensuring they leave

with all the skills necessary to participate fully in the world.

Kilvington’s Senior School (Years 7 – 12) occupies two separate buildings, offering older students their own

learning space. Both the Middle School Centre of Excellence and VCE Study Centre offer unique state-of-the

art environments for students to learn in.

For more information about the Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 and VCE Curriculum, please visit the Kilvington website.


Curriculum: Junior School

Kilvington’s Junior School is a place of rich and exciting learning experiences where children are respected

and valued.

Each student is viewed as naturally inquisitive, with enormous potential. We encourage enthusiasm, creativity,

persistence and collaboration amongst our students and celebrate individual differences. Our inviting

classrooms ensure students feel connected, valued, engaged and challenged at all times.

Our student’s needs, abilities and interests are placed at the centre of the curriculum, and differentiated

programs are designed to ensure all children reach their academic, physical, social and emotional potential.

We encourage our students to share their learning successes and discoveries with others and place

importance on building strong home-school partnerships.

The Curriculum subjects change throughout Junior School.

In lower primary the students study a range of subjects including: Mathematics, English, History, Geography,

Science, French, Religious Education, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Social and Emotional

Learning and Digital Technology.

In upper primary Performing Arts is broken down into choir, music and drama. They also participate in Sport.

We also offer Mathematics and English Enrichment classes for eligible students.

A range of academic subjects are available in our co-curricular program including Chess, Mindfulness, Coding

and Design Time.


Academic Results 2019 NAPLAN Results Annually the Government conducts the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) –

which assesses Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 across Australia. The NAPLAN maps each student’s outcomes onto a ten-

band continuum, and results are reported against national minimum standards which are Year 3 Band 2, Year

5 Band 4, Year 7 Band 5 and Year 9 Band 6.

The following table reflects Kilvington’s summary report at Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 for each of the areas tested

for NAPLAN 2019: Reading, Writing, Language Conventions – Spelling, Language Conventions – Grammar

and Punctuation, and Numeracy.

YEAR 3 YEAR 5 YEAR 7 YEAR 9

AREA Mean Mean Mean Mean

Reading State 447 516 552 587

Kilvington 498 561 597 641

Writing State 435 487 523 558

Kilvington 433 521 553 598

Spelling State 428 506 548 585

Kilvington 437 535 599 627

Grammar and Punctuation State 454 507 546 577

Kilvington 484 561 609 636

Numeracy State 421 507 562 599

Kilvington 468 547 620 652

2019 VCE Results • The Dux scored an ATAR of 99.75.

• 7% of our students were in the top 1% of the State (achieving an ATAR of 99 plus).

• 16% of our students were in the top 2% of the State (achieving an ATAR of 98 plus).

• 36% were in the top 5% of the State (achieving an ATAR of 95 plus).

• 52% were in the top 10% of the State (achieving an ATAR of 90 plus).

• The median study score is 36.


Campus and Facilities Ormond Campus – a Welcoming Environment Kilvington’s bright and modern campus, located in the leafy Melbourne suburb of Ormond, embodies our

School’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We place great importance on creating learning spaces

that allow students to feel comfortable in their environment.

Our buildings have been specifically designed to cater for the needs and activities of students of different

ages, such as spacious classrooms, a sport centre, sports courts, playgrounds, gardens, and a well-equipped

library.

One of our primary concerns is safety in the classroom and the playground. We have taken great care

to ensure that the School offers areas in which students can play and explore.

Technology is also fully integrated into all of our classrooms, with electronic whiteboards and wireless internet.

Students are encouraged to decorate the classrooms with their own work, giving each a sense

of life and colour, and providing all students with a meaningful link to their own space.


Term Dates 2020 (Please note dates are subject to change)

TERM 1

Friday 24 January New Staff Induction Day

Monday 27 January Australia Day Holiday

Tuesday 28 January Staff Day

Wednesday 29 January Staff Day

Thursday 30 January Year 7 and Year 12 students commence

Friday 31 January Years 1–6 and Years 8–11 students commence

Monday 3 February Prep students commence

Monday 9 March Labour Day Holiday

Friday 27 March Term 1 concludes

TERM 2

Tuesday 14 April Staff and students commence

Thursday 25 April Anzac Day Holiday (weekend)

Friday 5 June Student Free Day for Prep – Year 12

Monday 8 June Queen’s Birthday Holiday

Friday 19 June Term 2 concludes

TERM 3

Monday 13 July Staff Day

Tuesday 14 July Students commence

Friday 18 September Term 3 concludes

TERM 4

Monday 5 October Staff and students commence

Monday 2 November Mid-Term Holiday

Tuesday 3 November Melbourne Cup Day Holiday

Tuesday 8 December Term 4 concludes for students

Friday 11 December Term 4 concludes for staff

2021 term dates can be found here

KGS: Prospective International Students’ Handbook of 21 Provider Code: 00149A CRICOS Code: 005349G Updated July 2020

Full Fee Paying Overseas Student Assessment of English Language Proficiency Policy

Rationale Kilvington Grammar School is a Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students

(CRICOS) registered provider of courses for Full Fee Paying Overseas Students at Early Learning Centre,

Primary and Secondary School level.

Kilvington Grammar School is committed to ensuring that overseas students whose first language is not

English are accepted where they meet the minimum English language requirements and therefore have

a good chance of successfully completing the course in which they are enrolled.

As a CRICOS registered provider of courses for overseas students, the School recognises it must comply with

all guidelines issued under the ESOS Act (2000), National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and

Training to Overseas Students (2018) and the Victorian Child Safe Standards (2017).

English Language Entrance Requirements If English is not the applicant’s first language, they will be required to undertake an English assessment prior

to consideration being given to their application for enrolment. The applicant’s family must meet the cost

associated with English language proficiency testing on each occasion.

Kilvington Grammar School accepts the Australian Education Assessment Services (AEAS) test. AEAS test

results need to be recent enough for the School to be confident that they are a true and accurate reflection

of the student’s current English ability. This test is suitable for students aged eight and above. The AEAS

website in English is: http://aeas.com.au/home/welcome/

English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) A student may be required to undertake an English Language Intensive Course to help accelerate their

English language acquisition to ensure they are ready to enter the School. Kilvington will determine whether

this is necessary, based on the outcome of the student’s English language proficiency testing. In these cases,

entry is also dependent upon satisfactory reports from the ELICOS provider stating that the student is ready to

enter the year level for which they applied. Kilvington is able to recommend the following providers of English

Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students:

Avalon College 480 Avalon Road

Lara, Victoria 3212 Australia P: +61 3 5282 4733 CRICOS No. 01803A

http://www.avaloncollege.vic.edu.au/about-us/programs/school-preparation-course

Hawthorn-Melbourne English Language at the University of Melbourne, Hawthorn campus 442 Auburn Road Hawthorn, Victoria 3122 Australia P: +61 3 9815 4000 CRICOS No. 02931G http://www.hawthornenglish.edu.au/english-language-courses/efhs/


The required level of English proficiency for direct enrolment is below:

AEAS ELC Interview only

Prep – Year 3 Interview only

Year 4 – Year 6 30 or above

Year 7 55 or above

Year 8 55 or above

Year 9 65 or above

Year 10 70 or above

Year 11 80 or above

Responsibilities 1. The applicant’s family must organise and meet the cost associated with English language proficiency

testing on each occasion.

2. The International Student Coordinator will assess applications on their merit and in conjunction with other

key staff.

3. Where possible, students may also be interviewed by the International Student Coordinator or another

staff member as part of the application process.

4. It is the School’s responsibility to assess whether the applicant’s level of English is sufficient to enable

them to successfully complete the course for which they have applied.

Related Legislation 5. Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act (2000)

6. National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students (2018)

7. Victorian Child Safe Standards (2017)

Evaluation Policy reviewed December 2017

Review cycle 3 years


Business Regulations for FFPOS International Students (Enrolment Agreement)

These Business Regulations set out the terms and conditions under which international students are enrolled at Kilvington Grammar School (the School). The School retains the right to alter the notice from time to time to meet changing conditions.

1. General Matters

1.1 Parents/guardians are subject to the terms and conditions of these Business Regulations.

1.2 Parents/guardians must advise the School of any matters that pertain to the educational, physical or psychological development of their child, as this information is of significant importance in permitting the School to assess the child’s needs.

1.3 Enrolment is at the discretion of the Principal. The School does not provide reasons when declining an enrolment application.

1.4 Each signatory to the Enrolment Agreement agrees that they are jointly and severally bound by the terms and conditions of these Business Regulations, including but not limited to payment of fees and charges and compliance with School rules, regulations and policies that may be in force at the School from time to time, and that they will continue to be jointly and severally bound notwithstanding any changes to the relationship between them. No account or billing will be split on a several basis.

1.5 Acceptance of an offer of enrolment can be deferred but no guarantee can be given that a place will be available at that time.

1.6 The Student is responsible for keeping a copy of the written agreement as supplied by the School, and receipts of any payments of tuition fees or non-tuition fee.

1.7 The Student must notify the School of his or her contact details including residential address, mobile phone number, and email address.

2. Fees and Charges

2.1 The parents/guardians are required to pay all fees provided in the Fee Schedule. The School may vary tuition fees and other fees and charges from time to time at its sole discretion.

2.2 Once a formal offer of a place in the School is made, the School requires the parents/guardians to provide:

• a non-refundable payment of an Enrolment Fee of $A1100;

• the Camp Fee; and

• 50% of the Annual Tuition Fee, Consolidated Levy, Maintenance Levy and Book Levy which will beinvoiced in advance on the 1st of November of the previous school year and payable by the 15thof November.

2.3 The balance of the Annual Tuition Fee, Consolidated Levy, Maintenance Levy and Book Levy will be invoiced on the 1st of May and is payable by the 15th of May.

2.4 Fees paid to The School are governed by the Tuition Protection Service.

2.5 The parents/guardians are responsible to pay the cost of uniform and books, accommodation, living, travel expenses, VCE entry, purchase or lease of laptop computer.

2.6 All fees and charges (including tuition fees, and other additional fees and charges incurred) are payable within 14 days of an account being rendered.

2.7 Fee payments can be made by Visa, MasterCard or Amex, via BPAY or cheque. The School does not accept cash payments.


2.8 If in any one term all fees have not been paid in respect of all accounts rendered payable, the name of the Student in respect of whom all such fees have not been paid shall be removed from the School Roll and this Agreement terminated in relation to that student, unless there are special circumstances which have been reported to the Principal and alternative payment arrangements have been approved by the Principal.

2.9 Overdue accounts more than 30 days after due date will be charged a late fee of $200 together with any costs incurred in collecting the outstanding amount. Where specific payment arrangements are in place, and adhered to, the Late Fee will be waived.

2.10 Where a place is reserved for the Student who is granted leave of absence, there will be a charge of one fee instalment, payable in advance. Cheques in respect of all fees or other amounts payable pursuant to this Agreement should be made payable to the School marked ‘Not Negotiable’, and addressed to the Business Manager.

2.11 The parents/guardians acknowledge that they are liable to the School for payment of all fees irrespective of the person or persons to whom accounts are sent or by whom accounts are or have been paid and each parent or guardian does hereby guarantee to the School the payment of all such fees should the person or persons by whom such accounts are or have been paid default in any such payment.

3. Refunds

3.1 A full refund of the Tuition Fees will be paid if the student does not take up the place offered less the lesser amount of either 5% of total fees paid or $500 retained as an administration charge.

3.2 If the School defaults, the School will provide a refund to the Student or the parents/guardians as per the provisions of the ESOS Act 2000. The refund amount will be the unexpended amount of the course money received from the Student.

3.3 The School defaults if:

• either of the following occurs:

i. the School fails to start to provide the course to the Student at the location on the agreed startingday;

ii. the course ceases to be provided to the Student at the location at any time after it startsbut before it is completed; and

iii. the Student has not withdrawn before the default day.

3.4 If the Student defaults, the School will provide a refund to the Student or the parents/guardians as per the provisions of the ESOS Act 2000 unless an exception applies.

3.5 The Student defaults if:

• the course starts at the location on the agreed starting day, but the Student does not start the courseon that day (and has not previously withdrawn);

• the Student withdraws from the course at the location (either before or after the agreed starting day);

• the School refuses to provide, or continue providing, the course to the Student at the location becauseof one or more of the following events:

i. the student failed to pay an amount he or she was liable to pay the provider, directly or indirectly,in order to undertake the course;

ii. the student breached a condition of his or her student visa;

iii. misbehaviour by the Student.

3.6 Grievances regarding Refunds, parents/guardians not satisfied on a question of refund may refer the matter to the Principal. If this fails to yield a resolution, the matter may be further referred to the Chairman of the Kilvington Board.


4. Parent Representative

4.1 All overseas students MUST have a Parent Representative in Melbourne, who is a mature person of good character. The Parent Representative must be over 25 years of age.

4.2 The Parent Representative must have a special interest in the student and must be approved by the International Student Coordinator.

4.3 Parent Representatives have an obligation to be a contact person for the School and to meet with the International Student Coordinator and relevant Kilvington staff as deemed necessary by the School.

4.4 The Parent Representative is bound by the Parent Representative Agreement and associated policies and procedures.

4.5 The School has a reputation for working together as a close community and welcomes the Parent

Representative of overseas students.

5. Absence and Withdrawal

5.1 The Student shall follow the course of study prescribed at the School and for that purpose shall attend the School regularly and punctually and each parent or guardian agrees to cooperate in ensuring that the student attends the School at the appointed places and times. Please note that as part of a student's visa requirements they must attend 80% of the contact hours scheduled for each term or semester of the course.

5.2 One full term’s notice in writing of the intention to withdraw a student from the School is required or one term’s fees are to be paid in lieu of notice, except in exceptional circumstances.

5.3 The Principal is authorised at any time to refuse to permit a student to continue as a pupil at the School. If, at the discretion of the Principal, it is desirable and in the interest of the School that a student should be removed from the School, the Principal may notify the parents/guardians to that effect, remove the student’s name from the School roll and exclude them from further attendance at the School. The parents/guardians will be liable for all tuition fees and other additional fees and charges up to the day before the student’s removal from the School.

6. Health/Medical

6.1 The School must be kept up-to-date and informed of a student’s medical needs, including any significant illness or disability suffered or developed by the student during his/her enrolment.

6.2 Under the requirements of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) all student visa applicants will be required to undertake a health check to satisfy specific health requirements.

6.3 Allianz Overseas Student Health cover is required for each student for the duration of their course of study.

6.4 Students are required to have Overseas Student Health cover for the entire period of their enrolment.

7. Dismissal or Suspension of a Student

7.1 The parents/guardians agree to abide by all the policies of the School. The policies are not incorporated into the agreement.

7.2 The Principal reserves the right to dismiss or suspend the Student from the School on the grounds of unsatisfactory conduct or performance or failure to obey the Code of Behaviour or for any other reason considered by the Principal to be good or sufficient.

7.3 This Agreement, and the right to make complaints and seek appeals of decisions and action under various processes, does not affect the rights of the student to take action under the Australian Consumer Law if the Australian Consumer Law applies.

8. Resolution of Grievances

8.1 It is expected that student grievances within the school are addressed in the first place to the International Student Coordinator. The International Student Coordinator maintains regular contact with overseas students and is able to follow up any problems or grievances with the appropriate members of staff.


8.2 In the event of a grievance not being resolved in this way, a panel consisting of the Principal, International Student Coordinator or a representative, and if appropriate, the member of staff, would hear the grievance. The formal grievance process will commence within 10 working days of the receipt of the grievance, all reasonable measures are taken to finalise the process as soon as practicable. Students have the opportunity to formally present their case at minimal or no cost to themselves and the right to nominate an advocate or spokesperson who may be a fellow student or an adult. The hearing would be held in an informal and conciliatory manner with both parties presenting their case. The panel will consider each case on its merits and make recommendations for conciliatory action, acceptable to both parties. Once the panel has reached a decision regarding the grievance, a written statement of the outcome and the reasons for the outcome will be provided to the student.

8.3 Members of the Executive are highly experienced in working with overseas students, both at the personal and the administrative level.

8.4 In the event of a dispute not being satisfactorily resolved in this manner he/she will be informed of the external complaints and appeals process available to them at minimal or no cost. For the duration of the appeals process, the student’s enrolment is maintained. The external body used for Kilvington’s external complaints and appeals processes is an arbitrator nominated by ISV. If the grievance procedure finds in favour of the student, the School will immediately implement the decision and any corrective and preventative action required and advise the student of the outcome.

8.5 The dispute resolution process does not restrict the student’s right to pursue other legal remedies.

9. Privacy Statement

9.1 Personal information will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy (available on Kilvington’s website) and the Privacy Act 1988. The School may disclose your personal information to the TPS and government agencies.

10. Definitions

10.1 Consolidated Levy means the account including a consolidated levy, which covers the cost of materials, incursions, excursions, classroom resources, technology and other miscellaneous charges.

10.2 Maintenance Levy means the account including a maintenance levy, which contributes to the cost of maintenance of facilities and the extension or building of new facilities.

10.3 Book Levy means the charge for Junior School (Prep to Year 6) only and includes all books and resources required. All books and resources will be provided by the school for these year levels.

10.4 Camp Fee means the account including a camp fee for students in Years 5-12.

10.5 Tuition Protection Service (TPS) means the initiative of the Australian Government to assist international students whose education providers are unable to fully deliver their course of study. The TPS ensures that international students are able to either complete their studies in another course or with another education provider or receive a refund of their unspent tuition fees.

10.6 ESOS Act 2000 means Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000.

I/We have read the Business Regulations and agree to abide by the conditions contained herein.

Family Name (please print) …………………………………………………………………………………

Date ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………… ………………………………………………… Signature (Mother/Guardian) Signature (Father/Guardian)


Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation Policy 1.0 Rationale

Outlined below is Kilvington Grammar School’s process for assessing, approving and recording a deferment of the commencement of study or suspension of study requested by an overseas student. Kilvington Grammar School maintains a record of decisions made in relation to such requests.

2.0 Circumstances

Kilvington Grammar School may defer or suspend the enrolment of a student if it believes there are compassionate or compelling circumstances.

Kilvington Grammar School may suspend or cancel a student’s enrolment including, but not limited to, on the basis of:

• Misbehaviour of the student. • The student’s failure to pay an amount he or she was required to pay Kilvington Grammar School to

undertake or continue their course as stated in the written agreement. • A breach of course progress or attendance requirements by the overseas student, which must occur

in accordance with Standard 8 of the National Code (overseas student visa requirements).

3.0 Action Taken

If Kilvington Grammar School initiates a suspension or cancellation of the overseas student’s enrolment, before imposing a suspension or cancellation Kilvington Grammar School will write to the overseas student to:

• Inform the overseas student of that intention and the reasons for doing so. • Advise the overseas student of their right to appeal through Kilvington’s internal complaints and appeals

process, in accordance with Standard 10 (complaints and appeals) of the National Code, within 20 working days.

Where there is any deferral, suspension or cancellation action taken under this standard, Kilvington Grammar School will write to the overseas student to:

• Inform the overseas student of the need to seek advice from Immigration on the potential impact on his or her student visa.

• Report the change to the overseas student’s enrolment under section 19 of the ESOS Act.

The suspension or cancellation of the overseas student’s enrolment cannot take effect until the internal appeals process is completed, unless the overseas student’s health or wellbeing, or the wellbeing of others, is likely to be at risk.

4.0 Related Legislation

• Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act (2000)

• National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students (2018)

5.0 Evaluation

Policy reviewed December 2017 Review cycle 3 years


Accommodation Policy 1.0 Rationale

Where the School (KGS) has issued a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter for an international student, the student becomes the sole responsibility of the School. This responsibility includes approving accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements for a student who is under the age of 18. The School does not delegate, outsource or contract out this responsibility to another party.

The School will organise and place international students in School-approved Homestay accommodation in accordance with the National Code 2018 and the VRQA Child Safe Standards.

KGS is committed to organising Homestay accommodation for students that ensures minimal risk of harm to students and maximises the likelihood of them having a positive experience of studying at KGS and of living in Melbourne.

Additionally, KGS is committed to ensuring that close family relatives approved by the Department of Immigration understand their obligations in caring for international students who will reside in their care.

2.0 Child Protection

Where KGS enrols a student who is under 18 years of age, it will meet the Commonwealth and Victorian Child Safe Standards requirements relating to child welfare and protection.

Furthermore, KGS will ensure students under 18 years of age are given age- and culturally-appropriate information on:

• Who to contact in emergency situations, including the 24-hour emergency contact number of the International Student Coordinator and another member of the School Executive.

• Seeking assistance and reporting any incident or allegation involving actual or alleged sexual, physical or other abuse.

3.0 Students Under the Age of 13

KGS strictly adheres to VRQA Guidelines. As such, the School will not accept an enrolment from an international student who is under a minimum age of 14 years at enrolment and will require Homestay accommodation.

While KGS does have CRICOS registration for students younger than 14 years of age, such students must reside with a Department of Home Affairs (DHA) approved parent or relative.

4.0 Accommodation

Where KGS takes on responsibility under the Migration Regulations for approving the accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements (but not including guardianship, which is a legal relationship not able to be created or entered into by KGS) for a student who is under 18 years of age, KGS will:

1. Nominate the dates for which KGS accepts responsibility for approving the student’s accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements and advise Immigration, which is responsible for administering the Migration Regulations, of the dates in the form required by that department.

2. Ensure any adults involved in or providing accommodation and welfare arrangements to the student have a Working with Children Check (WWCC) and have read and agree to abide by Kilvington’s Child Safe Policies.

3. Prior to Homestay accommodation being initially approved, the International Student Coordinator will verify, in person, by visiting the premises, that the student’s accommodation is appropriate to the student’s age and needs.

The International Student Coordinator will then verify the accommodation is appropriate to the student’s age and needs at least every six months thereafter.

4. In emergency situations and when welfare arrangements are disrupted for students under 18 years of age, KGS will activate its Critical Incident Policy and also keep a number of emergency Homestays available for students who may need to be moved at short notice.


5. Maintain up-to-date records of the student's contact details, including the contact details of the student’s parent(s), legal guardian or any adult responsible for the student’s welfare.

6. Advise Immigration in the form required by that department:

• As soon as practicable if the student will be cared for by a parent or nominated relative approved by Immigration, and a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) is no longer required.

• Within 24 hours if KGS is no longer able to approve the student’s welfare arrangements.

7. If KGS is no longer able to approve the welfare arrangements of a student, KGS will make all reasonable efforts to ensure that the student’s parents or legal guardians are notified immediately.

8. If KGS is unable to contact a student and has concerns for the student’s welfare, KGS will make all reasonable efforts to locate the student, including notifying the police and any other relevant Commonwealth, state or territory agencies as soon as practicable.

9. Where KGS suspends or cancels the enrolment of the overseas student, KGS will continue to approve the welfare arrangements for that student until any of the following applies:

• The student has alternative welfare arrangements approved by another registered provider.

• Care of the student by a parent or nominated relative is approved by Immigration.

• The student leaves Australia.

• KGS has notified Immigration that it is no longer able to approve the student’s welfare arrangements or that it has taken the required action after not being able to contact the student.

10. If KGS enrols a student under 18 years of age who has welfare arrangements approved by another registered provider, KGS will:

• Negotiate the transfer date for welfare arrangements with the releasing registered provider to ensure there is no gap.

• Inform the student of their visa obligation to maintain their current welfare arrangements until the transfer date, or have alternate welfare arrangements approved or return to their home country until the new approved welfare arrangements take effect.

5.0 Safe Practices

Where KGS has issued a CAAW letter accepting responsibility for approving the accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements for an overseas student, the School ensures that the student’s accommodation meets the following minimum standards and will not delegate that responsibility:

1. Overseas students who are on a CAAW letter who are a minimum age of 14 or are in Year 9 (whichever comes first) will not be offered Homestay accommodation.

2. The home provides a safe, secure, private bedroom for the student’s sole use with suitable storage space for clothes, personal effects and study materials, and suitable facilities including a desk, a chair and adequate lighting for study purposes.

3. The home is clean and has appropriate furnishings suitable for a family and students.

4. There is access to a shared or private bathroom, with reasonable time allowed for showers.

5. There is access to kitchen, living areas, laundry facilities and shared areas of the home.

6. There is some form of heating in winter if required and some means of cooling in summer.

7. Students are to be provided with any keys, alarms or passwords required to have free access to the Homestay residence.

8. The ability to conduct assessments of the Homestay with access to all areas of the Homestay premises for the purposes of checking compliance with the Homestay standards required by the School.

9. All stakeholders can contact the International Student Coordinator via the 24-hour emergency number in the event of an emergency.

10. There are a number of families on call who are able to accept an international student at short notice in the event that their welfare arrangements are interrupted.


6.0 Staying with Relatives

Where KGS enrols an international student who will reside in the care of close family relatives approved by the Department of Immigration, the School will:

a. Meet with the nominated relative in person and provide the relative with information about KGS, including any obligations of parents/guardians of enrolled students.

b. Advise the relative to contact the education provider in the event of any change in the student’s accommodation arrangements or the relative’s contact details.

7.0 Homestay Selection and Monitoring Process

Selection The School recognises that risk management for children in Homestay arrangements starts with the selection of the right people to provide appropriate accommodation, support and general welfare to international students and continues by having consistent procedures in place for all stakeholders to follow. Adequate training and support is also provided to ensure compliance with procedures. The School will comply with all relevant legislation and be satisfied that the potential Homestay provider can care for the student in a safe and secure environment. This includes the provision of age appropriate support and supervision for a child or adolescent attending the School and adjusting to living in a new environment.

To be considered for selection in the Homestay program, all prospective Homestay providers (families) must agree to uphold the provisions of the School’s Child Protection Policies and associated procedures, the Homestay Handbook and follow the School’s policies and guidelines.

In selecting a Homestay family, the School will ensure Homestay families:

• Are carefully selected from within the School community, wherever possible.

• Have undergone appropriate screening including a ‘Working with Children’ check as required by Victorian legislation.

• Have provided proof of personal identity and relevant professional qualifications.

• Have provided a history of work involving children and references that address the Homestay provider’s suitability for working with children.

• Have provided evidence of appropriate levels of Homestay Host Insurance including Public Liability Insurance and Student Personal Effects cover.

• Are interviewed and assessed by the International Student Coordinator.

• Receive a comprehensive Homestay Handbook to ensure their visiting student has a fulfilling Homestay experience.

• Can provide visiting students with suitable accommodation and a stable environment for the duration of the international student’s stay.

• Are aware of, and can effectively manage, potential risks associated with activities undertaken by visiting students.

• Agree to provide assistance to access appropriate transport to and from the School and School-related activities.

• Agree to abide by all the School’s Policies.

Should a short term accommodation arrangement be necessary, this Policy and these conditions will apply.


Monitoring

After an initial visit to a potential Homestay and its subsequent approval in principle, Homestay accommodation will be reviewed at a maximum of six-monthly intervals, ie towards the end of Terms 1 and 3.

Prior to the six-monthly visits, Homestay hosts will be asked to provide the following:

• Information on any new adults over 18 who have started living at the Homestay on a regular basis and, if applicable, the Working with Children Check details of that person(s).

• A copy of an up-to-date insurance policy which shows coverage for paying lodgers.

In addition to six-monthly checks, Homestay accommodation monitoring will occur regularly through informal conversations with international students, their Parent Representative and Homestay host.

It is the responsibility of the International Student Coordinator to continue monitoring the suitability of students’ Homestay arrangements.

8.0 Breach of Policy

Where the School (KGS) has issued a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter for an international student, the student becomes the sole responsibility of the School.

KGS reserves the right to move a student in the event that either a student or Homestay host does not conform to this Policy.

Where a staff member breaches this Policy, KGS may take disciplinary action, including, in the case of serious breaches, dismissal.

9.0 Related Legislation

• Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act (2000)

• National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students (2018)

• Victorian Child Safe Standards (2017)

10.0 Implementation

The International Coordinator is responsible to the Principal for the development of whole school policy in this area.

The International Coordinator will monitor the overall implementation of this Policy and report annually, or as required, to the Deputy Principal and/or Principal.

11.0 Evaluation

Policy reviewed July 2020 Review cycle 5 years


Living Costs in Australia Knowing the average living costs in Australia is an important part of your financial preparation. For your

reference, here are some of the costs associated with living and studying in Australia. (All costs are in

Australian dollars and linked to the consumer price index.)

Accommodation • Hostels and Guesthouses – $90 to $150 per week

• Shared Rental – $85 to $215 per week

• On Campus – $90 to $280 per week

• Homestay – $300 to $350 per week

• Rental – $165 to $440 per week

• Boarding Schools – $11,000 to $22,000 a year

Other Living Expenses 1. Groceries and eating out – $80 to $280 per week

2. Gas, electricity – $35 to $140 per week

3. Phone and Internet – $20 to $55 per week

4. Public transport – $15 to $55 per week

5. Car (after purchase) – $150 to $260 per week

6. Entertainment – $80 to $150 per week

Minimum Cost of Living The Department of Home Affairs has financial requirements you must meet in order to receive a student

visa for Australia. From 1 July 2016 the 12-month living cost is:

• You – $20,290

• Partner or spouse – $7,100

• Child – $3,040

All costs are per year in Australian dollars. To convert to your own currency, visit http://www.xe.com/

The Australian Government provides information and guidance on managing your finances. You can read

more at www.moneysmart.gov.au

The 'Insider Guides Cost of Living Calculator' is also a useful tool to help estimate your cost of living in

Australia www.insiderguides.com.au/cost-of-living-calculator/

If you experience financial trouble while in Australia, talk to Kilvington’s International Student Coordinator

for assistance.

Adapted from: https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/english/live-in-australia/living-costs

PROSPECTIVE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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