2021

2

WELCOME…………………………………………………………………………………………………….….4

The School

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 2018-2021…………………………………………………………………….…… 5

Leadership Team ABORIGINAL EDUCATION ........................................................................................................................... 7

School and Community Partnership Agreement

Partnership for Success - The Graham "Polly" Farmer Foundation

Workabout Centre

ASSESSMENTS AND REPORTING ................................................................................................................ 10

Parent/Teacher Interviews

DAYMAP Parent Portal

ATTENDANCE ............................................................................................................................................... 12

Compulsory Enrolment & Attendance

What to do if my child is absent or late

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT (See positive learning environment)

BIKES .............................................................................................................................................................. 14 BUSES ............................................................................................................................................................. 14

Stirling North Bus Run A Timetable

Stirling North Bus Run B Timetable

Davenport Bus Timetable

CATASTROPHIC WEATHER / SUN SMART POLICY .................................................................................. 17

CANTEEN ...................................................................................................................................................... 19

Volunteering in the Canteen

CAMPS AND EXCURSIONS ........................................................................................................................ 20

Operation Flinders

CHANGE OF DETAILS ................................................................................................................................. 21

CLONTARF .................................................................................................................................................... 22

CONTACTING THE SCHOOL/STUDENTS ................................................................................................... 22

COUNSELLING ........................................................................................................................................... 22

Enrolments and Subject Changes

School Based Counselling

Headspace GP Clinic

CURRICULUM ............................................................................................................................................... 23

8, 9 & 10 Year Levels

11 & 12 Year Levels

Subject Counselling

ENERGY DRINKS .......................................................................................................................................... 24

ENROLMENT PROCEDURES ....................................................................................................................... 25

Leaving Procedures

FAMILY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES ................................................................................... 26

GRADUATION .............................................................................................................................................. 26

HARASSMENT & ANTI-BULLYING ............................................................................................................... 27

HEALTH AND PERSONAL CARE ................................................................................................................. 27

First Aid

Health Care Plans

Medication

HOMEWORK / COMPLETION OF TASKS AND ASSIGNMENTS .............................................................. 28

INDUSTRY PATHWAYS PROGRAMS AND TRADE TRAINING CENTRE ................................................... 29

LEARNING PLANS / ONE CHILD ONE PLAN (OCOP) ............................................................................ 30

LESSON TIMES............................................................................................................................................... 30

LOCKERS ...................................................................................................................................................... 30

LOST PROPERTY ........................................................................................................................................... 31

LUNCH PASS................................................................................................................................................. 31

MATERIALS & SERVICES CHARGE ............................................................................................................. 31

3

B-Point Payment - Online Credit Card Facility

Debt Recovery

MOBILE PHONES & IMAGE CAPTURING DEVICES ................................................................................. 33

NATIONAL SCHOOL CHAPLAINCY AND STUDENT WELFARE PROGRAM .......................................... 33

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY .................................................................................................... 34

PARENT & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT .................................................................................................. 36

PARENT COMPLAINTS ................................................................................................................................ 37

POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................................ 37

Classroom Responsibilities and School Expectations

Focus Room Referral

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION/RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES .................................................................................... 39

RESOURCE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE (RTC) ............................................................................................... 39

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION (SACE) .................................................................. 39

SCHOOL CARD ........................................................................................................................................... 39

Eligibility Criteria / Income Limits

SCHOOL NETWORK, INTERNET AND CYBER SAFETY USE POLICY ........................................................ 40

Expectations

SCHOOL PHOTOS ....................................................................................................................................... 41

SACE .......................................................................................................................................................... 443

SPECIALISED SPORTS PROGRAMS ............................................................................................................ 44

Sports Academy

South Australian Aboriginal Sports Training Academy (SAASTA)

Athletics Carnival

WASSAC & SASSSA

Knockout Sport

STANDARDISED TESTS .................................................................................................................................. 47

STATIONERY STARTER PACKS ..................................................................................................................... 48

Calculators

STEM .............................................................................................................................................................. 49

STUDENT SERVICES ...................................................................................................................................... 50

STUDENT WELLBEING / STUDENT MANAGEMENT ................................................................................... 50

STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES OR DISABILITIES ..................................................................... 50

Learning Community

Learning Community Mainstream

TECHNOLOGY TOOLS ................................................................................................................................ 51

TERM DATES ................................................................................................................................................. 53

TRANSITION PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................. 54

TRAVEL .......................................................................................................................................................... 54

Travel for Family Holidays

Travel Allowance

UNIFORM POLICY........................................................................................................................................ 55

VALUABLES AT SCHOOL ............................................................................................................................ 57

VIOLENT BEHAVIOURS ................................................................................................................................ 57

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL.......................................................................................................................... 58

WORK PLACEMENT ..................................................................................................................................... 58

YEAR 12 FORMAL ........................................................................................................................................ 59

YEARBOOK ................................................................................................................................................... 59

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY (YES) ................................................................................................... 59

4

WELCOME

Welcome to Port Augusta Secondary School.

We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which our school operates, and respect the

culture and diversity of the Aboriginal groups and individuals who are members of this learning

community.

The Principal, Paul Billows, and staff believe that the school has much to offer. We tailor our courses

to meet a diverse range of student needs.

We hope you will enjoy the experience and look forward to your support in the years to come.

THE SCHOOL

Port Augusta Secondary School (PASS) was established in 1995, through the amalgamation of

Augusta Park High School and Port Augusta High School.

2010 saw the amalgamation of the Stirling (senior school) and Seaview (middle school) campuses.

Major works were conducted in 2011 prior to all students transferring to the current Stirling Road site

in 2012.

5

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 2018-2021

6

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Principal: Paul Billows Deputy Principal: Simon Owens

Assistant

Principals:

Angela Dyer Yr 7 / 8 Learning

Improvement

Coordinators: Catherine

Aldous

The Arts

Sam Carter Yr 9 Learning

Improvement

Kriston

Thompson

Clontarf Program

Simon Finch Yr 10 / Technology Cass Evans English

Sandy

Glamuzina

Yr 11 & 12 / SACE Lucas Hill Health & Physical

Education

Angela Hancock Aboriginal

Education /

Students with

Disabilities

Paige Press Inclusive

Education

Coordinator

Nat Noack Literacy

Improvement /

Humanities

Simon Harding Information

Communication

Technology

Shane Loader STEM / Critical

Creative Thinking /

Numeracy

TBA Polly Farmer

Program

Karen Wallace Youth Engagement

Strategy / VET

Rebecca Curtis SAASTA

Alicia Gillespie Student Wellbeing

TBA Workabout

Program

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ABORIGINAL EDUCATION

Port Augusta Secondary School’s vision for Aboriginal students is for high levels of educational

achievement and meaningful post-school or vocational pathways.

The Aboriginal Education Team goals include:

1. strong partnerships with families

2. improvement in student’s literacy and numeracy

3. culturally competent staff

4. Aboriginal participation in governance

5. high levels of attendance for students

ABORIGINAL EDUCATION TEACHER

The Aboriginal Education Teacher (AET) has a specific focus on the development of teaching and

learning practices to improve learning outcomes for Aboriginal students in the school community.

The AET works with the school leadership, staff, students and the parents of Aboriginal students to

assist in coordinating school literacy and numeracy programs and contribute to staff training and

development to ensure improved student learning outcomes in literacy and numeracy.

ABORIGINAL SECONDARY EDUCATION TRANSITION OFFICER

The Aboriginal Secondary Education Transition Officer provides specialised support to school-based

teaching staff by:

1. expanding partnerships between secondary schools, higher education institutions, industry

and Aboriginal community to develop local strategies to strengthen transition from school to

work and/or further education

2. collaborating in educational decision making with teaching staff in the planning,

implementing and monitoring of programs and strategies identifying the social, wellbeing

and learning needs of Aboriginal students including “students at risk”

3. monitoring and reporting on the development of Aboriginal students transitioning through

senior schooling and onto post-school pathways

4. delivering Aboriginal Community Voice through the implementation of community voice

initiatives

8

SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT

Schools across Australia are working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

communities to improve student outcomes. The focus is about ensuring children and young people

succeed.

A written or recorded agreement is an effective step in the process of strengthening and

maintaining successful partnerships. Agreements vary in format with content reflecting the

negotiation that has taken place between individual schools and communities and shared

understandings that have emerged in relation to educational values, priorities and goals. Port

Augusta Secondary School and the Aboriginal school community finalised this process in May 2015.

The School and Community Partnership Agreement focus areas are:

strong and positive relationships

student engagement in learning and successful outcomes

valuing Aboriginal people, cultures and experiences

You can view the formal document on the school’s website at:

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/school_community_partner.htm

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/school_community_partner.htm

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PARTNERSHIP FOR SUCCESS – THE GRAHAM ‘POLLY’ FARMER FOUNDATION

The Port Augusta Partnerships for Success Project (PAPFS) provides after school tuition and individual

mentoring support for aspiring Aboriginal high school students to accelerate the educational

readiness of students and support them with their future pathways. The partnership maintains an

Enrichment Centre that operates after school for a group of 30 Aboriginal students.

All students in the program must have good attendance, strong academic achievement and strong

family support. Students receive intensive case management provided by the project coordinator

and individual tutoring to ensure their success. Some PASS staff are employed by the Graham (Polly)

Farmer Foundation as tutors at the centre.

At the Enrichment Centre students complete assignments and participate in extension activities in all

areas of study.

PAPFS is overseen by a Steering Committee, comprised of financial partners, school representatives

and parents of students in the program, that meet once per term. Enrolment processes commence

at the beginning of the school year, and as places become available throughout the second half of

the year. Please contact the project coordinator for more information on 86473300.

WORKABOUT CENTRE

The Workabout Centre

engages the Aboriginal

community in educational and

employment pathways, whilst

at the same time building

relationships between,

education, industry,

organisations, and Aboriginal

communities to create a

culture of sustainable

employment and retention in

the work force.

The Workabout Centre delivers

mentoring, counselling, tutoring and work-readiness strategies that provides intensive culturally

inclusive support to Aboriginal, young people from the commencement of secondary schooling into

post-school pathways. For more information please contact the school on 8647 3300.

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ASSESSMENTS AND REPORTING

At PASS assessments are on-going throughout the year and fit within the Australian Curriculum, the

South Australian Curriculum Standards and Assessment (SACSA) or the South Australian Certificate of

Education (SACE).

Students receive information about their educational achievement through a combination of:

regular school reports – provided at the end of each term

Year 7 & 9 National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) results

PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS

Parent/teacher interviews are conducted early term 2 for years 7 – 11, between 3:30pm – 7:00pm.

Interviews for year 12 students are conducted in terms 1 and 3. Letters inviting parents to attend

interviews including the booking process are communicated to families via sms.

DAYMAP PARENT PORTAL

The DAYMAP parent portal allows parents and guardians to see their child’s timetable, lesson

attendance, homework, assignments, results and messages from teachers, and access the end of

term reports.

Please note that although attendance information is available, other aspects of the portal are still

being trialled and setup.

You will need the email address you have registered with Student Services. If you have not

registered an email address or you have changed it recently, please phone Student Services to

update it. This will need to happen before you can start using the program.

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Go to http://daymap.pass.sa.edu.au/DaymapConnect/ or

access the parent portal from the Port Augusta Secondary

School website (www.pass.sa.edu.au) accessible under the

"Daymap" heading on the home page.

Click on the “New User?” link.

Enter the email address you have registered with the school.

If you have not registered an email address with the school or

have recently changed your email address, please call

student services on 8647 3300.

Enter your child’s six digit student code and click reset

password. This code can be found on their student ID card or

timetable.

An email with a new password will be sent to the registered

email address.

Using the Parent Portal.

file://///FNREDU0790/School/Clerical/Admin/Booklets%20Folder/Parent%20Handbook/2018/www.pass.sa.edu.au

12

ATTENDANCE

Student attendance is a high priority at PASS as we believe that students who attend regularly:

are more likely to be successful at school

develop life skills such as self-discipline, punctuality and time-management

improve options for the future, and

learn and practice social skills

PASS implements a SMS system to assist with early identification of non-attendance or irregular

attendance to ensure early parent notification and response.

COMPULSORY ENROLMENT AND ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL

All children aged between 6 and 17 years of age must be enrolled and attend school regularly.

Under the Education Act of South Australia, parents and or guardians are held responsible for the

regual attendance of all children in their care.

WHY REGULAR ATTENDANCE IS IMPORTANT – A MESSAGE TO STUDENTS:

the more you attend school, the more you will learn and the greater liklihood of you being

successful

getting the maximum benefit from school will improve your options for your future life

attending school regularly will help develop life skills such as self-discipline, punctuality and

good time-management

you will learn and practice the necessary social skills to live and work successfully with others

attending school provides opportunities for socialising with your friends and will help you to

maintain relationships over a length of time

DOES MY CHILD HAVE TO ATTEND SCHOOL EVERYDAY?

YES, unless:

You have provided the school with an acceptable reason preventing your child’s attendance, such

as:

your child is too sick to attend;

your child has an infectious disease such as Chicken Pox, Mumps, Measles, Head Lice or

Impetigo (cold sore virus);

your child is incapacitated by injury preventing movement around the school;

your child is accompanying you on a family holiday which cannot be arranged in school

vacation time. An “Exemption from School” form will need to be completed (please contact

Student Services).

If possible, debtal and medical appointments should be made out of school hours.

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DID YOU KNOW? IF YOU ARE ABSENT 5 DAYS EVERY TERM THIS MEANS THAT YOU WOULD HAVE MISSED

HALF A YEAR OF SCHOOL BY THE TIME YOU HAVE FINISHED YEAR 12. RESEARCH SHOWS THAT ONE DAY

MISSED TAKES FOUR DAYS OF EFFORT TO CATCH UP.

Under the law, Centrelink has access to School Attendance records and can reclaim monies paid if

a student is receiving an allowance and has more than five unexplained absences per term.

WHO CAN HELP WITH PROBLEMS?

Homegroup teacher

Year level Assistant Principals

School Wellbeing Counsellor

YES team

Deputy Principal

Aboriginal Education

WHAT KIND OF ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE?

1. Discussion of issues and concerns

2. Referral to other support agencies

3. Assessment of student learning needs

4. Negotiation of student learning plans

5. Investigation of alternative learning pathways

WHAT DO I DO IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT OR LATE?

Students are expected to be at school by 8.30am for an 8.40am start.

If your child arrives late at school, they need to “sign in” at student services or the YES centre

and receive a receipt.

Late students must show a receipt to their subject teacher before they will be accepted into

class.

Whenever your child is absent from school and we do not know why, the school will contact

you either by SMS text message, phone call, letter or home visit.

A doctor’s certificate will be required for absences of 3 or more consecutive days when your

child is ill.

If you know your child is going to be absent please contact the school by 9.30am.

Ongoing absences will be forwarded to the DfE Attendance Team, their role includes:

Working with students in a supportive counselling role.

Visiting students at home and consulting with parents and or guardians.

Identifying reasons for student non-attendance and making appropriate referrals.

Monitoring student attendance and reviewing progress as necessary.

To contact the DfE Attendance Officer, phone the Regional Office on: 86416877.

At Port Augusta Secondary School, attendance is a focus. We aim to continue to improve our

attendance rates with your support.

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BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT

See Positive Learning Environment

BIKES

Students who choose to ride their bikes to school are encouraged to do so. Students need to

ensure they arrive at school prior to the first bell as the bike rack is locked by 8.30am and unlocked

again at the end of the day.

BUSES

The Government provides school bus transport to and from the Davenport Community and Stirling

North. For Port Augusta Town Bus details, please contact the Port Pirie Bus Service on 0429 105 942.

STIRLING NORTH BUS RUN A TIMETABLE – 2020

Morning

Mon to Fri DfE bus 1601 1st stop 7.35am

Afternoon

Mon & Fri DfE bus 1601 depart PASS 2.30pm

Tues to Thurs DfE bus 1601 depart PASS 3.05pm

Please note: the above times may vary according to unavoidable delays, particularly those marked

with *.

Bus Stops

Stop No. Location

1A Stirling North Supermart (Shop)

2A Corner Progress Ave/Cooper Street

15

3A Corner Greater Western Plains Road/Catherine Street

4A North Terrace (between Jane & Edith Streets)

5A Corner Jane Street and North Terrace

6A Corner Spicer Street and Johnson Avenue

7A Stirling North Primary School

STIRLING NORTH BUS RUN B TIMETABLE – 2020

Morning

Mon to Fri DfE bus 1601 1st stop 8.05am*

Afternoon

Monday DfE bus 1601 depart PASS 3.05pm*

Tues to Thurs DfE bus 1601 depart PASS 3.35pm*

Friday DfE bus 1571 depart PASS 2.30pm

Please note: the above times may vary according to unavoidable delays, particularly those marked

with *.

Bus Stops

Stop No. Location

1B Corner Jeff Street/Highway 1

2B Corner Rangeview/Bowman Roads (Cemetery)

3B Corner McConnal Road/Hedger Street

4B Corner McConnal Road & Mosely Street

5B Corner Whiting Street & Callier Avenue

6B Corner Quorn Road & Prosser Street

7B Corner Zanker Avenue & Nestor Street

8B Corner Bartlett Avenue & Maule Avenue

PLEASE NOTE: there will be only one bus run in the afternoons from Monday to Thursday if there are

sufficient seats available.

The teacher on yard duty will ensure all run A students are seated first. If there are sufficient seats left

available for all run B students, the bus driver will do a full bus run incorporating both run A and B

stops which will extend the run by 5 to 10 mins. Therefore a second run will not occur when this

happens. However, if there are insufficient seats available for all run B students, all run B students will

be required to remain at school to wait for the second bus run, unless prior approval has been

negotiated to travel home on run A.

16

DAVENPORT BUS TIMETABLE 1571 - 2020

Morning

Mon-Fri Departs Davenport Community 8.10am

Arrive PASS 8.20am*

17

Arrive Carlton School 8.25am*

Arrive Augusta Park Primary 8.30am*

Afternoon

Monday Departs PASS 2.30pm

Departs Augusta Park Primary 2.35pm*

Departs Carlton School 2.40pm* Tues-Fri

Departs PASS 3.05pm

Departs Augusta Park Primary 3.15pm*

Departs Carlton School 3.20pm*

Please note: the above times may vary according to unavoidable delays, particularly those

marked with *

CATASTROPHIC / INCLEMENT WEATHER, SUN SMART

In the event of extreme weather conditions, a decision will be made by admin staff to invoke the

inclement weather policy. This information will be communicated live through the paging system

and email as well as the bulletin if the timing is appropriate.

In the case that the inclement weather policy is invoked, students are to move from outside to the

ground floor of building 3A or other designated areas as per announcements.

Inclement weather includes extended periods of hot weather, heavy rain and high winds etc.

The following duties will change in inclement weather:

oval duty and basketball court duty to ground floor of 3A or other areas as directed by the yard

duty coordinator. Please note: students are not to consume food or drink indoors.

CATASTROPHIC FIRE RATINGS

Port Augusta Secondary School is rated as “low fire risk” and will remain open on catastrophic fire

danger days, unless otherwise communicated.

When catastrophic (code red) level bushfire weather is forecast for a fire ban district a parent hotline

1800 000 279 will operate the day before and throughout the schools/preschools closures. Further

information is available at www.bushfirereadyschools.sa.gov.au.

http://www.bushfirereadyschools.sa.gov.au/

18

SUNSMART

Developed in consultation with DfE, inclement weather and sun protection procedure and the

Cancer Council SA Sun Smart Secondary School Policy Guidelines.

Rationale

Too much exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can cause sunburn, skin and eye damage and skin

cancer. Sun exposure in childhood and adolescence is a major factor in determining the future risk

of skin cancer. However, exposure to UV from the sun assists in maintaining vitamin D levels which are

essential for healthy bones and muscles and general health.

Objectives

encourage the school community to use a combination of sun protection measures whenever

UV Index levels reach 3 or above

work towards a safe school environment that provides shade for students, staff and the school

community where appropriate

assist students to be responsible for their own sun protection

ensure that families and new staff are informed of the school’s sun smart policy

Protective Measures

Clothing

sun protective clothing is included in the school uniform/dress code

this may include, but is not limited to, collared shirts, loose fitting clothing made of closely woven

fabric and bucket hats

Sunscreen

students and staff are provided with SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen

for all outdoor activities

strategies are put in place to remind students to apply sunscreen before going outdoors and

reapply as required

Hats

all students are required to wear a hat that protects their face, neck and ears (broad brim,

legionnaires or bucket hat) during outdoor school events throughout the year

this may include, but is not limited to, sports day, knockout sport, aquatics, excursions and

camps

students are encouraged to wear a hat during break times throughout the year

baseball or peak caps and visors are not acceptable

Shade

a sufficient number of shelters and trees are provided around the school, particularly in areas

where students congregate (e.g canteen area)

the availability of shade is considered when planning excursions and outdoor activities

students are encouraged to use available areas of shade when outside

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a shade audit is conducted regularly to determine the availability and quality of shade

in consultation with the governing council, shade provisions will be considered in plans for future

buildings and grounds

Staff WHS and role modelling

all staff will wear a hat that protects their face, neck and ears (broad brimmed, legionnaires or

bucket hat) during yard duty and outdoor lessons throughout the year

all staff will model a combination of sun protection measures including applying sunscreen,

wearing sun protective clothing and sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible

Outdoor school events

outdoor school events include, but are not limited to, sports day, knockout sports, aquatics,

excursions and camps

the availability of shade is to be considered in the planning of all outdoor school events

students, staff and visitors will be provided with SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum, water resistant

sunscreen at all outdoor school events

a combination of sun protection measures will be encouraged at all events, including regular

reminders throughout the day

for all-day events where students and staff are outside and unprotected for long periods of

time, considerations will be made to ensure the safety of participants

this may include, but is not limited to, rescheduling the event to minimise time outdoors during

peak UV times, conducting twilight or indoor events, or conducting the event during months

when the UV is lower

Curriculum

programs on skin cancer prevention, sun protection and vitamin D are included in the

curriculum where appropriate

sun smart behaviour is regularly reinforced and promoted to the school community through

newsletters, staff meetings, assemblies, students teacher activities, staff induction and student

enrolment packs

Policy review

The governing council and staff will regularly monitor and review the effectiveness of the sun

smart policy and revise the policy when required

CANTEEN

The canteen is open every day from 8.00am – 8.30am each morning to order lunches and/or make

purchases, and then again during break times until the end of afternoon recess.

There is a wide range of nutritious food available for students to purchase at lunch and/or recess,

with differing summer and winter menus. EFTPOS facilities are available.

*Students have the opportunity to progress to the front of the line for pre-ordered lunches.

20

VOLUNTEERING IN THE CANTEEN

Our Canteen appreciates voluntary assistance given by parents/guardians throughout the year. This

valuable help enables us to keep our prices as low as possible for the students.

Helping in the canteen can be an enjoyable social outing as well as a way to feel involved in your

child’s school, whilst getting to know the teaching and support staff. Any assistance you can offer

would be greatly appreciated. Please contact the Canteen Manager on 8647 3319.

CAMPS AND EXCURSIONS

Activities such as camps and excursions can greatly enhance the progress of learning, offering new,

varied, challenging and practical experiences across the learning areas. They stimulate and

challenge students and provide an opportunity for children to interact with teachers and each

other in a setting vastly different from the classroom. Students discover and experience new

environmental settings and learn new skills first hand. Camps and excursions may take the form of:

day excursions to places of interest

performing arts during and after school hours

participation in sports, arts and cultural events

music, physical education and outdoor education camps

COSTS

In most cases there is an additional cost for camps and excursions which helps cover things such as

entrance fees and transport. If you have financial problems that could stop your child from

attending, talk to the year level senior leader of your child.

21

OPERATION FLINDERS

Each year, up to 10 Port Augusta Secondary School students have the opportunity to participate in

the Operation Flinders Foundation wilderness adventure program for young people. The program

caters to participants between the ages of 14 and 18 years on an eight-day exercise in the Northern

Flinders Ranges. Operation Flinders provides an opportunity for its participants to grow individually

and as valued members of the community. The aim is to develop personal attitudes of self-esteem,

leadership, motivation, team work self-reliance and responsibility. Students learn basic bush survival

skills, bush walking and minimal impact camping skills, are taught to abseil, participate in an

approved local Aboriginal Cultural experience and learn of the rich history of the Flinders Ranges.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Students participating in outdoor education will be required to attend a variety of camps and day

trips ranging from bushwalking to aquatics. By Stage 2, students will also complete a Senior First Aid

course. Costs may vary up to approximately $300 a year.

CHANGE OF DETAILS

If you change address or other personal details (e.g. emergency contacts, family name) throughout

the year, please ensure that you contact the school as soon as possible. It is important, for the safety

and well-being of students that information is kept up to date.

22

CLONTARF FOUNDATION

An established Academy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys

operates at Port Augusta Secondary School with dedicated staff and

facilities.

The Academy provides an opportunity for students to succeed through

the improvement of educational outcomes, discipline, employment

prospects, life skills and self-esteem.

The program provides excursions, camps, before school, after school

and break time activities to support development.

More information is provided: http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/clontarf.htm.

CONTACTING THE SCHOOL/STUDENTS

Appointments with staff are to be arranged through the front office. Parent complaints will be

managed according to the DfE parent complaint management process.

All contact between parents and students during school time needs to be made through the Front

Office to reduce distractions in lessons.

Each classroom in the school is equipped with a telephone to facilitate easy contact with staff and

students.

Using the front office will:

assist the school in managing the student’s whereabouts (particularly if they are required to

leave the school grounds)

ensure that lessons are not disrupted by calls

ensure that students are supported to adhere to the school expectations on the use of

electronic devices

COUNSELLING

The Coordinator Student Well Being, works in partnership with learners, parents, staff and the broader

community to optimise student learning. This is achieved through the provision of additional support

and targeted strategies, promoting student health, wellbeing, safety and development. The

Wellbeing Leader has a variety of roles they perform as part of their day-to-day duties.

ENROLMENTS AND SUBJECT CHANGES

Enrolment appointments with the Wellbeing Leader are made through the front office. Students

wishing to make subject changes also need to make an appointment at the office.

SCHOOL-BASED COUNSELLING

School-based counselling may involve:

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/clontarf.htm

23

helping to manage relationships with family, teachers and peers

support to manage issues of concern

course and career guidance

support to encourage attendance and learning at school

advocating for students

promoting student voice and leadership within the school

REFERRALS

School-based counsellors provide health promotion materials and offer information and referral to

available support services with parent permission. Whenever possible they facilitate access for staff

and students to programs and initiatives designed to enhance personal growth and development

for individuals or groups.

HEADSPACE GP CLINIC

The school-based headspace clinic is a free and confidential health service for young people aged

12-19. The clinic runs fortnightly at the school – Wednesday from 9-1pm and students require written

parental consent. Phone: 8647 3300 for more information.

CURRICULUM

8, 9 & 10 YEAR LEVELS

In year 8 & 9, students are provided with opportunities to study eight learning areas – English,

Mathematics, Science, Humanities, The Arts, Design & Technology, Health and Physical Education &

STEM. Information Communication Technology (ICT) is taught in all learning areas.

Students at year 10 level study eight learning areas for either 1 or 2 semesters and are given the

opportunity of starting to choose from a range of options.

Curriclum guides for years 8 – 10 are avialable on the School’s website at:

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/curriculum.htm

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/curriculum.htm

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11 & 12 YEAR LEVELS

We offer an extensive range of subjects at both Stage 1 and 2 SACE and Vocational, Education

and Training (VET). These programs lead to a wide range of career pathways including university,

TAFE and employment. Students select each year, from a range of subject offerings. SACE Stage

1 and 2 course offering descriptors are available on the School’s website at

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/sace_stage12.htm.

SUBJECT COUNSELLING

Students study each learning area in year 8 and 9. Choosing the correct subjects for senior year

levels is important.

Extensive subject counselling is provided to students choosing their subjects or post school options

for the following year during semester 2. Help and advice are given at the school via the Wellbeing

Leader. A 'Counselling Day' in term 3 gives students and parents/guardians an opportunity to

discuss programs and finalise subject choices.

ENERGY DRINKS

Port Augusta Secondary School promotes a healthy eating environment, with the school canteen

providing freshly made meals and snacks for students to purchase. Students may also wish to bring

food from home, or some senior students may purchase food off site and bring it back to school to

enjoy. Emergency meals are also available through the YES Centre or Aboriginal Education.

As a school we are becoming increasingly concerned about the health risks that are associated

with energy drinks and their popularity amongst students. We have noticed a change in some

students’ behavior as a result of the foods and drinks they are choosing to consume during their

breaks.

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/sace_stage12.htm

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Energy drinks pose a health concern for several reasons.

Studies have linked excessive caffeine in children to elevated heart rates, hypertension, anxiety,

headaches and interrupted sleep patterns.

• Energy drinks have higher levels of caffeine than regular soft drink

• Serving sizes can be misleading:

Some energy drinks are sold in cans which cannot be resealed and therefore

increase the likelihood of being consumed in one sitting

Children may not be capable of understanding and adhering to the

suggested serving size

We would like to take this opportunity to remind parents and students that these drinks are not

permitted at Port Augusta Secondary School. We ask that parents and guardians support us by not

sending them to school in packed lunches, and by instructing their child not to purchase them on

the way to school or if leaving the school grounds.

Students who bring Energy Drinks to school will be asked to leave them at the Front Office or YES

office when signing in.

We also encourage students to choose healthy options when purchasing foods off site. Healthy diets

actually mean the healthiest possible academic performance, with lots of scientific evidence to

support this.

We have also noticed an increase in the number of student purchasing bulk size items to consume in

a day. (For example 2L flavoured milk or soft drink and large packets of lollies or chips). Whilst there is

a financial gain in purchasing this way, it makes it impossible for students to regulate a correct

serving size and results in them consuming more than the recommended daily intake of sugar,

making it incredibly difficult to concentrate.

Students with large size drinks will also be asked to leave these at the Front Office or YES office when

signing in.

We appreciate your support in this matter.

ENROLMENT PROCEDURES

Student enrolments are made with the Wellbeing Leader and/or the Senior Leader Youth

Engagement Strategy (YES). Anyone considering enrolment should phone the school on 8647

3300 to make an enquiry.

LEAVING PROCEDURES

Students who are considering leaving throughout the school year should make an appointment

with the Wellbeing Leader to discuss options. Students will then be required to bring back all

resources borrowed from the school, hand in their school ID card and complete a student

clearance check.

Students who are in their final year (e.g. year 12) will have to follow the leaving process on

completion of their final exam or assignment.

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FAMILY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES

HEALTH AND WELLBEING SERVICE PROVIDERS:

There are a number of services available in the local area where information and assistance can be

provided in relation to student’s wellbeing. These include:

Carers SA - Northern Country Carers: 1800 067 933/8641 1844 or

http://carers-sa.asn.au/carer-support/Northern-Country/

Centacare: 1800 812 300

Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Services (CAMHS): provides a confidential

counselling service for children and young

people up to 18 years of age and their

families. Northern Country Service: 1800 819

089

Headspace: 8641 4300 or

http://www.headspace.org.au/

PIKA WIYA Health Service: 8642 9999

Reconnect: 1800 686 651

Uniting Care Wesley: 7628 3101

TELEPHONE REPORT LINES AND INFORMATION SERVICES:

beyondblue:

www.beyondblue.org.au

(mental health)

Bullying No Way:

http://bullyingnoway.gov.au/

Child Abuse Report Line (CARL): Free

call: 13 14 78

Child & Youth Health: Free call 1300

364 100

Crisis Care: Free call: 131 611

Domestic Violence Crisis Service:

Free call 1300 782 200

Families SA: Free call 1800 100 118

Headroom: www.headroom.net.au

Kids help line: Free Call 1800 550 1800

or www. Kidshelp.com.au

Parenting SA:

http://www.parenting.sa.gov.au/

Reach Out! www.reachout.com.au

Youth beyondblue:

www.youthbeyondblue.com

Youth Help Line: 13 17 19

www:cyh.com

GRADUATION

Graduation for completing students is held at the Lea Memorial Theatre on Friday, week 2 of

term 4. This is an opportunity for staff, students and their families to celebrate their successes

of the year. Major award winners are announced, along with subject awards, and each

student receives a class photo and certificate.

http://carers-sa.asn.au/carer-support/Northern-Country/http://www.beyondblue.org.au/http://bullyingnoway.gov.au/http://www.headroom.net.au/http://www.parenting.sa.gov.au/http://www.reachout.com.au/http://www.youthbeyondblue.com/

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HARASSMENT & ANTI-BULLYING

The school has a zero tolerance policy relating to Harassment and Bullying.

WHAT IS HARASSMENT AND BULLYING?

Harassment and bullying are a pattern of repeated physical, verbal or social aggression that is

directed towards a specific person by someone with more power and is intended to cause

harm, distress and/or create fear. Harassment and bullying might involve repeatedly:

physically hurting someone or threatening to hurt someone

leaving someone out

saying mean or humiliating things

using technology to send nasty messages or images (social

media or SMS)

Harassment and bullying are not the same as conflict or disliking

someone even though, in some cases, these things can lead to bullying.

SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

At PASS, students and teachers have the right to learn and teach in a safe and supportive

school environment that is free from harassment and bullying.

This means that all students, staff, as well as the school community must take responsibility for

their actions and actively discourage harassment and bullying to ensure that PASS is a safe

and supportive learning environment. This is achieved by:

respecting each other and property

showing courtesy, care and compassion every day

being active in creating a positive school environment

using appropriate language in the school

REPORTING HARASSMENT

the student being harassed arranges a time to meet with the Wellbeing Leader or the

student can complete a “green harassment report form” (available at Reception or

Student Services)

the Wellbeing Leader supports the student to resolve the matter with the perpetrator,

documents any actions taken and any required follow-up

if the harassment/bullying remains unresolved, the appropriate year level Senior

Leader becomes involved and consequences are applied depending on the nature

of the harassment and bullying

Continual Harassment will result in Exclusion from school (between 4-10 weeks).

HEALTH AND PERSONAL CARE

Our school is committed to supporting the health and well-being of all students. An important

part of this commitment is our student health and personal care management policy. We

acknowledge that parents/guardians retain primary responsibility for their child’s health care.

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This includes responsibility for providing accurate, up-to-date, relevant information for staff

regarding children’s routine and emergency health care needs. Students will be supported

to develop safe, self-management of their health care needs. This will occur with respect for

the child’s age and stage of development.

FIRST AID

In case of an accident, students will be given appropriate first aid and Student Services staff

will contact parents/guardians, or emergency contacts as required. Guardians are asked to

make sure medical information is updated as circumstances change.

Note: Analgesics e.g. Panadol will not be supplied or administered.

HEALTH CARE PLANS - PERSONAL CARE SUPPORT

Some students may require assistance with their routine or emergency health and personal

care needs. Before staff can assist with this, parents/guardians/adult students must provide

written information from their doctor outlining specific care needs. Health support,

medication and specific medical condition plans are available from Student Services.

It is the responsibility of the parent/adult student to request and ensure all appropriate forms

are completed and returned to the school.

MEDICATION (LONG TERM)

As much as possible, we encourage students to take medication outside of school hours, e.g.

three times per day, can be taken in the morning (before school), afternoon (straight after

school) and evening (bedtime). If medication needs to be taken at school:

prescribed medication must be stored with Student Services and not to be stored in

student’s bags

prescribed medication must be provided to Student Services in the original pharmacist

container with directions on the label

Note: A medication plan must be completed in conjunction with the family doctor and

submitted to the school. Students are responsible for getting themselves to Student Services

when required to have medication administered.

HOMEWORK / COMPLETION OF TASKS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Students are expected to do homework as negotiated by teachers.

Much of the set homework will be completion of an assignment or project. Parents will be

informed of any non-completion of summative tasks via a letter from the subject teacher.

The school provides a number of supervised opportunities for students to complete

homework tasks and assignments. The following centres are open at different times during

the week:

Polly Farmer: Mon-Thurs after school

Resource & Technology Centre: year 11 and 12, Mon-Thu 3.00-4:00pm

Stronger Smarter Study Centre: year 8-12, Mon 2.30-4.00, Tue-Thu 3.00-4.30pm

YES centre: Mon-Fri 8.15-8:40am, and Tue-Wed 3.00-4.00pm

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INDUSTRY PATHWAYS PROGRAMS AND TRADE TRAINING CENTRE

Year 9, 10 and 11 students have the opportunity to participate in the Industry Pathways

program (IPP) through the on-site Trade Training Centre (TTC). These students have to commit

to potentially remaining part of a selected cohort for at least three years of their schooling.

Participants focus their schooling on the completion of their SACE starting at year 10; with the

ultimate aim of gaining an

apprenticeship or a full time

placement at TAFESA studying in

their chosen trade field.

Students commit to a contract of

behaviour and expectations

when entering the IPP. The

contract is a written agreement

between the student, parent and

the program manager.

Work placement is a key to the

success of the IPP. Throughout the

program students are expected

to complete a minimum of 160

hours of work placement

commencing from year 10. This

may be completed over

individual days or blocks of time in

negotiation with local or regional

businesses. The work placement is

an opportunity for students to

validate the skills and knowledge

gained at school in a range of

trade related curriculum and at

TAFESA during vocational

placements.

TAFESA Port Augusta is part of the

success of the IPP through their

long relationship. During year 11

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students attend TAFE one day per week, plus week blocks as negotiated, working towards the

completion of negotiated Certificate 2 courses, generally in the fields of Construction,

Automotive or Electrical. During the students time at the TAFE facility they become familiar

with the expectations of an apprentice when in a training facility. The competencies that

students complete during the IPP gain valuable credits towards their SACE.

Along with the ability to complete their SACE and gain a wide range of nationally accredited

industry standard skills and competencies, students gain many life and goal setting skills that

will be of benefit to them when pursuing post school options.

If you would like further information regarding the selection process please contact the

Industry Pathways Program Senior Leader on 86473300.

LEARNING PLANS

ONE CHILD ONE PLAN (OCOP)

Learning plans are mandatory for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, students

under the Guardianship of the Minster and for students with a recognised disability.

“the department introduced the one child one plan in 2018, which will be phased in over

the next few years.”

The development and implementation of learning plans enables a focused effort on quality

learning programs, taking into account student aspirations, achievements and successful

learning outcomes for students.

LESSON TIMES

Monday

8:40 - 8:50 CAREGROUP

8:50 - 9:30 L 1

9:30 - 10:10 L 2

10:10 - 10:50 L 3

10:50 - 11:25 LUNCH

11:25 - 12:05 L 4

12:05 - 12:45 L 5

12:45 - 1:05 RECESS

1:05 - 1:45 L 6

1:45 - 2:25 L 7

Tuesday—Thursday

8:40 - 8:50 CAREGROUP

8:50 - 9:35 L 1

9:35 - 10:20 L 2

10:20 - 11:05 L 3

11:05 - 11:40 LUNCH

11:40 - 12:25 L 4

12:25 - 1:10 L 5

1:10 - 1:30 RECESS

1:30 - 2:15 L 6

2:15 - 3:00 L 7

Friday

8:40 - 8:50 CAREGROUP

8:50 - 9:30 L 1

9:30 - 10:10 L 2

10:10 - 10:50 L 3

10:50 - 11:25 LUNCH

11:25 - 12:05 L 4

12:05 - 12:45 L 5

12:45 - 1:05 RECESS

1:05 - 1:45 L 6

1:45 - 2:25 L 7

LOCKERS

Lockers are available for student use. Check with the Resource and Technology Centre staff.

Students must supply their own padlock.

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LOST PROPERTY

Lost property is held at Student Services for collection by students prior to the end of each

term. Unclaimed items will then be passed onto charitable organisations.

LUNCH PASS YEAR 11-12

Year 11-12 Students may apply for a pass to go home for the lunch break or to a

parent/guardian’s place of work. The school will not have any duty of care for the child whilst

they are off school grounds for this purpose. Students are to sign out of the school through the

electronic system at YES or Student Services and are discouraged from going anywhere other

than either of these two locations during the 35 minute break.

The school provides adequate relaxation areas and nutritious food in a safe and supervised

environment. Emergency food is also available from the YES centre and Aboriginal

Education centre if needed.

Lunch passes can be issued for specific days or every day. Application forms are available

from Student Services.

MATERIALS & SERVICES CHARGE

The Materials and Services Charge is a compulsory payment and must be paid in full.

The Materials and Services Charge has been set at $325 for 2021. The week prior to school

commencing is identified for the payment of fees and for parents to apply for school card.

A reminder SMS will be sent early in 2021. The school will be open on Monday 18 January until

Friday 22 January, from 8.00am to 3.30pm, and until 6pm on Thursday 21 January.

Normal School Day Office Hours are:

Monday – Thursday 8.00am - 4.00pm

Friday 8.00am - 3.30pm

PLEASE NOTE: The office will not be open on allocated student free days

All parents are expected to make either full payment, arrange to pay by instalments via

Direct Debit requests or apply for school card at this time.

For Direct Deposit, the school bank details are:

Account Name - Port Augusta Secondary School Council Inc.

Bank - Commonwealth Bank

BSB No - 065 507 Account No - 10026324

B-POINT PAYMENT – ONLINE CREDIT CARD PAYMENT FACILITY

Log onto the schools website www.pass.sa.edu.au, and click on “Online Payment” and follow

the prompts.

Please ensure that all payments are identified so that we know which student to credit the

payment against.

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/

32

There is a Family Code on the statement in the top right hand side eg: ABCD00.

DEBT RECOVERY

The Materials & Services charge for 2021 is approved by Governing Council to be set at $325:

being the compulsory amount able to be charged by a State Government Secondary School.

Invoices will be sent home at the beginning of the 2021 school year with payment in full

required by 22/01/2021 or payments can be made by instalment. See below due dates.

DUE DATES FOR INSTALMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1st Instalment 22/01/2021 $81.25

2nd Instalment 19/02/2021 $81.25

3rd Instalment 19/03/2021 $81.25

4th instalment 09/04/2021 $81.25

All instalment payments should be finalised by 09/04/2021.

Alternative payment plans can be negotiated with the school, eg, direct debits from bank

accounts etc, via an application through student services or a completed application for

School Card.

Parents/Guardians must make arrangements to organise payment of the materials and

service charge, camp and excursion charges and any other charges associated with the

child’s attendance at Port Augusta Secondary School. The following will occur in cases where

payment arrangements have not been made:

1. Amounts outstanding for 90 days or more will be referred for debt recovery in

accordance with the Debtor Management Instruction and pursued through the

Central Debt Collection process.

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2. Payments for, or a completed ‘Commitment to Pay form’ for camps/excursions/events

must be received prior to students being permitted to attend or participate in the

camp/excursion or activity/event.

MOBILE PHONES & IMAGE CAPTURING DEVICES

The school acknowledges that some students and staff may need to carry mobile

phones/IPods to and from school.

PASS seeks to incorporate a balanced view for mobile phone use while engaged in school

and school-based activities, however it is critical that all students are given the best learning

environment in which to learn without interruptions created by mobile phone use in lessons.

The following ‘common sense’ rules apply:

All contact between parents and students during school time needs to

be through the Front Office

If students or staff members bring mobile phones/IPods to school they

do so at their own risk. The school does not accept responsibility for

mobile phones/IPods that go missing, nor does it have the resources to

conduct investigations into misplaced or stolen mobile phones

All mobile phones/IPods are to be switched off and must remain in the

students’ bag during lessons and during any school activity or event

Ear phones are not to be visible and the sending and receiving of text

messages is not permitted during lesson time, school activity or event

Students in the YES centre will need to abide by YES policy

Governing Council has endorsed the use of earphones in the following situations:

year 11 and 12 students during study periods, not in class time

students with medical requirements supported by a Medical Care Plan

all students at break times

PRIVACY AND MOBILE PHONES, PHOTOS AND VIDEO

Mobile phones with cameras/video create a new set of privacy issues for schools.

Due to the small size of the phones, images of people can be taken without their knowledge

and these images can be saved and then sent to other people or the internet.

This creates the potential for gross invasion of privacy in areas around the school.

In cases where gross invasions of privacy occur, or where student images are used without

permission (e.g. sent to another person on the Internet or as a SMS) the matter will be referred

to the Police.

Note: In some cases students may be suspended from school. In extreme circumstances

students could be excluded from school and Police may elect to charge offenders.

NATIONAL SCHOOL CHAPLAINCY AND STUDENT WELFARE PROGRAM

PASS operates a chaplaincy service through the National School Chaplaincy and Student

Welfare Program (NSCSWP).

34

The NSCSWP is a voluntary program that assists school communities to support the spiritual,

social, and emotional wellbeing of their students. This can include support and guidance

about ethics, values, relationships and spirituality; the provision of pastoral care; and

enhancing engagement with the broader community. Note: religious instruction is not part of

this service.

Chaplaincy services complement the work of Wellbeing Leaders and other services offered at

the school and may include:

assisting wellbeing staff in the delivery of student welfare services

providing students, their families and staff with support and or appropriate referrals, in

difficult situations such as during times of grief or when students are facing personal or

emotional challenges

supporting students to explore their spirituality and providing guidance about

spirituality, values and ethical matters or referring students to, or sourcing appropriate

services, to meet these needs; and facilitating access to support agencies in the

community, where applicable

Our Chaplain is employed through the Schools Ministries Group, to provide service to the

school and can be contacted through the YES centre on 86473300.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT

AIM

This policy is intended to:

provide a set of principles to guide parents in their interaction with staff, students and

school community;

explain how parents can direct their concerns.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all adults including parents, guardians, step-parents, grandparents,

extended family, care-givers and any adults while involved in activities or communication

related to Port Augusta Secondary School. For the purpose of this policy, the term ‘parent’

refers to all guardians as above.

ETHICAL CONDUCT

Parents play a key role in the education of their children and should act in the best interests of

students, their families, staff and the school community. Parents are students’ most significant

role models.

The school values its diverse community and respects the rights, beliefs and practices of

individuals and their families.

The school expects a high standard of personal behaviour from parents when they are on

school grounds, attending events or communicating with staff or students.

Communication and interaction with staff, other parents and students

Parents are expected to interact civilly with staff, students and other parents at all times.

Written and spoken communication should be courteous and respectful. Abusive language,

raised voices, insulting or violent behaviour to anyone on school grounds or at any

school-related event is not appropriate.

35

In some circumstances parents are required by law to advise the school of areas of potential

conflict, such as parenting and family court orders. The school expects parents to behave

lawfully on school grounds and observe the terms of any order, obligation or undertaking they

may be subject to.

After hours events

It is not appropriate to approach staff pertaining to school business or issues at non-school

related community events. Issues of concern can be dealt with by school staff at school and

should be raised by telephoning or emailing the school or making an appointment by

contacting the front office to speak to a relevant staff member.

Actions taken by the school when communication becomes inappropriate

In cases where a parent does not interact civilly with staff in person, during a phone call, or via

email, the staff member may take one of the following actions:

1. request that the parent cease their inappropriate communication in order to allow the

conversation to proceed;

2. inform the parent that unless the inappropriate communication ceases, the staff

member may put an end to the phone call, meeting or discussion;

3. request another staff member be present if deemed necessary to proceed;

4. lodge a complaint against the offending parent with the Department for Education;

5. Police involvement.

Use of Social Media

Social media can be defined as how we use technology to communicate and connect with

others. Despite the range of positive uses for social media, there are also a number of ethical

and legal issues associated with its use. Parents should be aware that there are a number of

potential legal liabilities that may arise, particularly in relation to issues pertaining to

reputational damage, and defamation.

Parents can ensure they abide by the laws and the school’s expectations of its parents, by

complying with the points listed below:

the school, its staff and members of its community should not be mentioned or

discussed in a negative or defamatory way;

photographs or short film containing other students should not be posted without the

express consent of the other child/student’s parents and should not bring negative

connotations towards the school or school community;

36

email addresses of parents, staff and students should not be given to other people

without their express consent.

WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT FROM THE SCHOOL

The school takes seriously any issues that are brought to its attention. If parents express their

concerns to the school, they can expect to be treated with courtesy and respect in order to

try and resolve the matter.

As a general guide, minor issues may be raised with your child’s teacher or Year Level Assistant

Principal. Issues of a more serious nature should be directed to the Deputy Principal or

Principal.

When contacting the school, staff will refer you to the most appropriate person to deal with

your issue.

Further information about raising concerns at the school is available on our school website by

reading the ‘Parent guide to raising a concern or complaint’ brochure -

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/docs/complaint_resolution_brochure.pdf.

Access the Department for Education’s Complaint Management Policy and information links

at:

https://www.education.sa.gov.au/complaint-management-policy?utm_medium=email&utm

_campaign=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020&utm_content=LinkED%20-%20ter

m%201%20week%205%202020+CID_c3f9179811388b8c28e51f3489d60d65&utm_source=Educ

ation%20Email&utm_term=policy,

Or contact the Education Complaint Unit hotline on 1800 677 435, for information, advice and

support.

Breaches of this Code of Conduct

The consequences for breaches of the Code of Conduct will be determined by the Principal

and may include one of the following:

the school may ban a parent from entry to school grounds or from attending

school related activities or events;

the school may direct that a parent may only communicate with members of the

staff through a nominated school representative;

the school may, where appropriate, involve other authorities.

PARENT & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Parents are encouraged to become involved

as much as possible in the decision-making of

the school and to contribute wherever possible

to the improvement of school life.

There is an active Governing Council consisting

of parents, students, staff and community

representatives which meets twice a term. Our

school encourages parents to call in to the

office, or phone in about any area of concern.

http://www.pass.sa.edu.au/docs/complaint_resolution_brochure.pdfhttps://www.education.sa.gov.au/complaint-management-policy?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020&utm_content=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020+CID_c3f9179811388b8c28e51f3489d60d65&utm_source=Education%20Email&utm_term=policyhttps://www.education.sa.gov.au/complaint-management-policy?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020&utm_content=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020+CID_c3f9179811388b8c28e51f3489d60d65&utm_source=Education%20Email&utm_term=policyhttps://www.education.sa.gov.au/complaint-management-policy?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020&utm_content=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020+CID_c3f9179811388b8c28e51f3489d60d65&utm_source=Education%20Email&utm_term=policyhttps://www.education.sa.gov.au/complaint-management-policy?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020&utm_content=LinkED%20-%20term%201%20week%205%202020+CID_c3f9179811388b8c28e51f3489d60d65&utm_source=Education%20Email&utm_term=policy

37

PARENT COMPLAINTS

PASS is committed to delivering high quality education and care. However, we recognise that

sometimes things go wrong and you may feel that your expectations for your child are not

being met. If you have an unresolved issue or a complaint, then you are encouraged to raise

it. It is important to work together, talk, listen and find solutions so that we can improve your

child’s experience and learning, and improve our services to the community.

So that we can all work together to get the best outcome for your child, there are some simple

steps to keep in mind if you have a complaint about public education and care.

Stage 1 – Talk to the school

The school should always be your first point of contact. Find an appropriate time to talk to your

child’s care group teacher or other relevant staff member (e.g. counsellor, Year Level Senior

Leader) to discuss your concern or complaint. The school front office may be able to arrange

a time for you to meet with the teacher or have a discussion over the phone.

Stage 2 – Contact the regional office

If you are not satisfied that your complaint has been resolved by the school – or if the principal

is the subject of your complaint – you may choose to contact the Regional Office for help. The

regional office will review your complaint.

Stage 3 – Parent Complaint Unit

More information can be found at: https://www.education.sa.gov.au/department

POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

At PASS, students and teachers have the right to learn and teach in a safe and supportive

school environment. This means that all students, staff as well as the school community must

take responsibility for their actions to ensure that PASS is a safe and supportive learning

environment. This is achieved through a set of common School Expectations and Classroom

Responsibilities.

https://www.education.sa.gov.au/department

38

CLASSROOM RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

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FOCUS ROOM REFERRAL

A student who disrupts the learning of other students or the ability of the teacher to teach

may be sent to the Focus Room after the teacher has made reasonable attempts to

resolve the situation.

During the process of working with the student to resolve the situation reference will be

made to the School Expectations and Classroom Responsibilities (which are displayed in

all classrooms). If the behaviour persists, the student may be sent to the Focus Room.

Parents will be contacted at the end of each day by SMS if their child has been sent to the

Focus Room. Parents are to direct any concerns regarding Focus Room referrals to the

referring teacher or relevant year level Senior Leader. Phone 86473300.

Note: four (4) or more referrals to the Focus room in a term will be dealt with by the

appropriate year level Senior Leader.

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION/RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES

Religious instruction is not conducted at school. However the study of religion or cultural beliefs

may be included in curriculum subjects and students may have the opportunity to attend

seminars delivered by religious organisations.

Note: Participation in such religious seminars or activities is voluntary and requires the written,

informed consent of parents.

RESOURCE & TECHNOLOGY CENTRE (RTC)

The Resource and Technology Centre (RTC) is a collarborative space that is open throughout

the day. There is a varied range of fiction and non fiction books for students to borrow. The

RTC also manages Laptop hire and BYOD access and troubleshooting.

SCHOOL CARD

Application for School Card needs to occur the week prior to school commencing:- a new

application form needs to be submitted EACH year. This can be done through the school or

online at: www.sa.gov.au under the heading Education, Skills and Learning.

The school will be open from:

Monday 18 to Friday 22 January 2021 to complete applications

School Card must be applied for each year as family circumstances and eligibility criteria are

continually changing.

http://www.sa.gov.au/

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Please bring along your Centrelink card with CRN details, including partner details.

Depending on the grounds you are applying for School Card, you may also require proof of

income for the 2019/20 financial year, youth allowance letters from Centrelink or similar

correspondence, or your pensioner concession card or health care card.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA / INCOME LIMITS

Eligibility for School Card assistance is dependent upon family gross income for the 2019/2020

financial year being within the School Card limits.

Gross income does not include any amounts received for Family Tax Benefits Parts A and B

and child maintenance payments. If family circumstances have changed since lodgement of

your 2019/2020 tax return, application for School Card can be made on the grounds of

hardship.

Various Application Forms are available from the School or online.

SCHOOL NETWORK, INTERNET AND CYBER SAFETY USE POLICY

To enhance learning through the safe use of information and communication technologies (ICT), please read this with your child to understand their responsibilities under this agreement and sign the permission slip that is included in the new student enrolment pack.

Our computer systems bring great benefits to the teaching and learning programs at PASS and to the effective operation of the school. Our ICT equipment is provided for educational purposes, appropriate to this environment.

This policy includes information about your child’s obligations, responsibilities, and the nature of possible consequences associated with cyber-safety breaches that undermine the safety of the school environment.

Where a student is suspected of an electronic crime, this will be reported to the South

Australian Police. Where a personal electronic device such as a mobile phone is used to

capture images of a crime, such as an assault, the device will be confiscated and handed to

the police.

While every reasonable effort is made by PASS and DfE administrators to prevent student’s

exposure to inappropriate content when using the department’s online services, it is not

possible to completely eliminate the risk of such exposure. In particular, DfE cannot filter

internet content accessed by your child from home, from other locations away from school or

on mobile devices owned by your child.

Parents/guardians play a critical role in developing knowledge, understanding and ethics

around their child’s safety and safe practices for themselves and the people around them

regardless of the time of day. Being cyber-safe is no exception and we encourage you to

discuss this issue with your child and view the following websites to stay safe when using ICT at

school and after formal school hours.

https://esafety.gov.au/youngandesafe https://www.kidshelpline.com.au

https://www.esafety.gov.au/education-resources/iparent http://www.bullyingnoway.com.au

https://esafety.gov.au/youngandesafehttps://www.kidshelpline.com.au/https://www.esafety.gov.au/education-resources/iparenthttp://www.bullyingnoway.com.au/https://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/original/000/002/058/Information_icon3.pnghttps://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/original/000/002/058/Information_icon3.pnghttps://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/original/000/002/058/Information_icon3.pnghttps://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/original/000/002/058/Information_icon3.png

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https://www.education.sa.gov.au/parenting-and-child-care/parenting/parenting-sa

EXPECTATIONS:

I will log on only with my own user name. I will not allow anyone else to use my

account.

I will keep my password private.

While at school or a school related activity, I will inform the teacher of any involvement

with any ICT material or activity that might put me or anyone else at risk (eg bullying or

harassment).

I will use the computer systems only for positive purposes, not to be mean, rude or

offensive, or to bully, harass, or in any way harm anyone else, or the school itself, even if

it is meant as a joke.

I will use my mobile phone/s only at the times agreed to by the school during the

school day.

I will go online or use the Internet at school only when a teacher gives direction.

While at school, I will:

access, attempt to access, download, save and distribute only age appropriate and relevant material

report any attempt to get around or bypass security, monitoring and filtering that is in place at school

report any inappropriate material that is accessed to a teacher immediately. To ensure copyright laws are abided by, I will download or copy files such as music,

videos, games or programs only with the permission of a teacher or the owner of the

original material.

My privately owned ICT equipment/devices I bring to school or a school related

activity, are also covered by this policy. Any images or material on such

equipment/devices must be appropriate to the school environment. I understand that

if I am required to connect my equipment\device to a power source, that it must be

electrically tested by the Resource Technology Centre before it is used on site.

I understand that the school does not provide insurance for accidental loss or damage

to student owned devices. Claims may only be met under the department’s public

liability insurance where the loss or damage is attributable to a negligent act or

omission on the part of the school.

I will follow all cyber-safety practices before I put any personal information online.

I will respect and treat all ICT equipment/devices with care and not cause any

damage to equipment. This includes:

1. reporting any breakages/damage to a staff member

2. following all school cyber-safety strategies, and not joining in if other students

choose to be irresponsible with ICT systems and networks

3. not attempting to hack or gain unauthorised access to any system

The school may monitor traffic and material sent and received using the school’s ICT

network. The school may use filtering and/or monitoring software to restrict access to

certain sites and data, including e-mail.

The school may monitor and audit its computer systems and network, or commission an

independent forensic audit. Auditing of the above items may include any stored

content, and all aspects of their use, including e-mail.

If I do not follow this policy, the school may inform my parents/guardians. In serious

cases, the school may take disciplinary action against me. My family may be charged

for repair costs. If illegal material or activities are involved or e-crime is suspected, it

may be necessary for the school to inform the police and securely hold personal items

for potential examination by police. Such actions may occur even if the incident

occurs off-site and/or out of school hours.

https://www.education.sa.gov.au/parenting-and-child-care/parenting/parenting-sahttps://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/original/000/002/058/Information_icon3.png

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Important terms:

‘Cyber-safety’ refers to the safe use of the Internet and ICT equipment/devices, including mobile

phones.

‘Cyber bullying’ is bullying which uses e-technology as a means of victimising others. It is the use

of an Internet service or mobile technologies - such as e-mail, chat room discussion groups,

instant messaging, webpages or SMS (text messaging) - with the intention of harming another

person.

‘School ICT’ refers to the school’s computer network, Internet access facilities, computers, and

other ICT equipment/devices as outlined below.

‘ICT equipment/devices’ includes computers (such as desktops, laptops, PDAs), storage devices

(such as USB and flash memory devices, CDs, DVDs, iPods, MP3 players), cameras (such as video

and digital cameras and webcams), all types of mobile phones, gaming consoles, video and

audio players/receivers (such as portable CD and DVD players), and any other, similar,

technologies.

‘Inappropriate material’ means material that deals with matters such as sex, cruelty or violence in a

manner that is likely to be injurious to children or incompatible with a school environment.

‘E-crime’ occurs when computers or other electronic communication equipment/devices (eg

Internet, mobile phones) are used to commit an offence, are targeted in an offence, or act as

storage devices in an offence.

SIGNING THE PERMISSIONS SLIP ON ENROLMENT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT YOU ARE

AWARE AND WILL ABIDE BY THE FOLLOWING:

follow the cyber-safety strategies and instructions whenever I use the school’s ICT

systems and networks

follow the cyber-safety strategies whenever I use privately-owned ICT devices on the

school site or at any school-related activity, regardless of its location

avoid any involvement with material or activities that could put at risk my own safety,

or the privacy, safety or security of the school or other members of the school

community

take proper care of school ICT systems and networks. I know that if there is evidence

that I have caused damage, loss or theft of ICT equipment/devices, I and/or my family

may have responsibility for the cost of repairs or replacement

LearnLink Office 365 is a customised

package of Microsoft Office Word, Excel,

Publisher, Powerpoint, Onedrive and

Sharepoint available for students. This is

offered at no additional charge to

parents\guardians whilst their child

remains at PASS.

To access further information on what

Office 365 has to