DSG Handbook 2018
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Contents INTRODUCTION ....................................................................... 4
THE SCHOOL HYMN ................................................................. 5
THE SCHOOL PRAYER ............................................................... 6
CALENDAR FOR 2018 ............................................................... 7
SECTION 1 ..................................................................................... 9
SCHOOL STRUCTURE ............................................................... 9
CONTACT DETAILS ................................................................... 9
MEMBERS OF STAFF ................................................................ 9
SECTION 2 ................................................................................... 13
RULES OF CONDUCT .............................................................. 13
1 SCHOOL JURISDICTION .................................................. 13
2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................... 14
3 RESPONSE TO BREACH OF SCHOOL RULES .................... 15
4 OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE ............................................. 16
5 SERIOUS MISCONDUCT .................................................. 16
6 PASTORAL CARE ............................................................. 24
7 GENERAL RULES and EXPECTATIONS ............................. 24
8 MOBILE DEVICES ............................................................ 28
9 OUT OF BOUNDS ............................................................ 28
10 DETENTION ................................................................... 29
11. OPEN CAMPUS ............................................................. 30
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SECTION 3 ................................................................................... 31
DAILY ROUTINES .................................................................... 31
THE SCHOOL DAY ................................................................... 33
SECTION 4 ................................................................................... 35
LEAVING THE DSG
CAMPUS ................................................................................. 35
4.1 WITH PARENTS ............................................................... 35
4.2 CLOSED WEEKENDS ....................................................... 38
4.3 WRITTEN PERMISSION REQUIRED ................................. 39
4.4 RESTRICTIONS ................................................................ 39
4.5 GIRLS’ OUTINGS ............................................................. 39
SECTION 5 ................................................................................... 42
GENERAL
INFORMATION ....................................................................... 42
5.1. CLOTHING EXCHANGE and BOOKROOM ....................... 42
5. 2. DANCES .......................................................................... 42
5.3. DAY GIRLS ...................................................................... 44
5.4 DINING HALL .................................................................. 45
5.5. UNIFORM ....................................................................... 46
5.6. LIBRARY ......................................................................... 50
5.7. LARGE GATHERINGS ...................................................... 50
5.8. ROLL CALL...................................................................... 51
5.9. SAN ............................................................................... 51
5.10. SCHOOL PERIOD........................................................... 51
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5.11. SPORT .......................................................................... 52
5.12 DANCE .......................................................................... 52
5.13. TRANSPORT ................................................................. 53
SECTION 6 ................................................................................... 54
ACADEMIC
ASSESSMENT.......................................................................... 54
6.1 CASS AND PROMOTION MARK ...................................... 54
6.2 PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS ....................................... 54
6.3 APPLICATION MARKS ..................................................... 55
6.4 AWARDS ......................................................................... 56
SECTION 7 ................................................................................... 58
POLICIES ................................................................................. 58
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INTRODUCTION
This book is issued to all girls of the DSG. In it you will find information that will
help you to become familiar with the school and give you the confidence to
engage meaningfully with all aspects of the programme. You should have the
Handbook easily accessible as you may need to refer to it, especially when you
are new to the school. However, members of staff and other pupils are always
available to help you or to answer any questions you may have if the
information you need is not provided.
The rules given in this book should be taken seriously as for any
community to function well it needs to have rules and regulations that are
understood by all its members. DSG is a close-knit community and with a clear
structure in place, all are free to grow and to contribute to the community as a
whole. It is particularly important that you know and understand what
constitutes Serious Misconduct (found on pages 17 to 21 in this book).
Even in a busy place such as DSG, there may be times when you feel
you need help or just someone to talk to. There will always be someone you can
go to if you are troubled – your housemistress, tutor, the chaplain, the
educational or counselling psychologists or one of the san sisters – and we
encourage you to keep the lines of communication open.
We hope that this will be a happy and fulfilling year for you. We wish
you success in attaining the goals you set yourself and trust that during the
course of the year, you will be able to make a positive contribution to the DSG
community.
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THE SCHOOL HYMN
For all the saints who from their labours rest
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed
Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blessed
Alleluia, Alleluia
Thou wast their rock, their fortress and their might
Thou, Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight
Thou, in the darkness still their one true light
Alleluia, Alleluia
But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day
The saints triumphant rise in bright array
The King of Glory passes on his way
Alleluia, Alleluia
From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast
Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host
Singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost
Alleluia, Alleluia
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THE SCHOOL PRAYER
Almighty God, the fountain of all true knowledge and wisdom,
by whose grace the foundation of our school
was laid by Bishop Merriman,
we give thanks that we have prospered
in your blessings of grace and life.
May the vision and the purpose of our school continue to bring
new depths of wisdom and knowledge
to all the young women who pass by here.
Work in our lives that whatsoever things are true, noble, right,
pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy
that these things
may issue forth in our lives for all eternity.
May this school be loved and honoured by all who learn,
all who teach and all who work here.
May your blessing be upon us today and forever.
In Jesus name we pray,
Amen
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CALENDAR FOR 2018
Term 1 Thursday 18 January – Wednesday 28 March
Half-Term Thursday 1 March – Monday 5 March
Tuesday 16 January New girls’ programme commences
Wednesday 17 January New girls’ programme continues
Boarders return by 18:00
Thursday 18 January Classes begin
Wednesday 28 February 14:00: Gala, first session
19:00: Gala, second session
Thursday 1 March Half-term begins: Travel day
08:00: Parent–Teachers’ Meeting
Monday 5 March Boarders return by 18:00
Tuesday 6 March Classes begin
Wednesday 28 March 17:00: Final Assembly (Compulsory attendance)
Thursday 29 March Travel day
Term 2 Wednesday 25 April – Tuesday 7 August
Half-Term Thursday 21 June – Tuesday 3 July
Tuesday 24 April Boarders return by 18:00
Wednesday 25 April Classes begin
Thursday 21 June Half-term begins: Travel day
Tuesday 3 July Boarders return by 18:00
Tuesday 7 August 17:00: Final Assembly (Compulsory attendance)
Wednesday 8 August Travel day
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Term 3 Wednesday 5 September – Wednesday 5 December
Balloon Week Monday 8 October – Thursday 11 October
Half-Term Thursday 11 October – Monday 15 October
Tuesday 4 September Boarders return by 18:00
Wednesday 5 September Classes begin
Monday 8 October Balloon Week commences
Thursday 11 October Half-term begins after the athletics
Monday 15 October Boarders return by 18:00
Wednesday 5 December 17:00: Final Assembly (Compulsory attendance)
Thursday 6 December Travel day
During the final week of Term 3, all the girls (except Matrics) go on their
outdoor education excursions. These are part of the school curriculum
and no permission to leave school early will be given.
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SECTION 1 SCHOOL STRUCTURE
CONTACT DETAILS
The switchboard operates from 07:30 to 16:30 on
weekdays. After hours and over weekends, the
answering machine will give the number of the
relevant person to contact.
Switchboard: 046 603 4300
Fax: 046 636 2363
MEMBERS OF STAFF
Head of School: Ms Shelley Frayne
Deputy Head: Junior School Ms Barbara Hibbert
Deputy Head: Pupil Affairs Mr David Wright
Deputy Head: Academic Ms Dionne Redfern
Chaplain: Fr Rob Penrith
Business Manager: Mr Dave Jarvis
Financial Manager: Ms Penny York
Senior Housemistress: Ms Nozuko Konjwa
San: Sr Tania Montauge Sr Louise Rischbeter
Clinical Psychologist: Ms Mandy Thacker
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Educational Psychologist: Ms Jane Jarvis
Sport: Mr Chris Hibbert
Librarian: Ms Cynthia Gambiza-Nyama
Community Engagement: Rev. Sue Paton
PA to Headmistress: Ms Angela Southey
Finance Office: Ms René Griesel-Crouse Reception: Ms Dean Bridger
Ms Nonesi Zonke
Admissions: Ms Lisa Hobson Marketing: Ms Vanessa Bowes
Travel: Ms Ann Bryan
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HOUSES
Crewe Espin Knowling Merriman Grade 8 House
Housemistress Housemistress Housemistress Housemistress Housemistress
Ms Nozuko Konjwa [email protected]
Ms Cheryl Flanagan [email protected]
Ms Juli Norton
[email protected] Ms Shelley Stretton
[email protected] Ms Kim Barker
Deputy Deputy Deputy Deputy Deputy
Ms Sandra Marques [email protected]
Ms Lesego Libisi [email protected]
Ms Monica Ives [email protected]
Ms Jayne Euvrard [email protected]
Ms Morgan Collins [email protected]
Ms Tami Maiwashe [email protected]
Housemother Housemother Housemother Housemother Housemother
Ms Maureen Bowles [email protected]
Ms Liezel Strydom
[email protected] Ms Lucille Collins
Ms Louise vd Merwe [email protected]
Ms Sharon Thomas [email protected]
GRADE HEADS Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Mr Wesley Deintje [email protected]
Ms Louise Todd [email protected]
Ms Jayne Euvrard [email protected]
Mr Mark Evans [email protected]
Dr Petra Gentz [email protected]
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TUTORS 2018
CREWE ESPIN KNOWLING MERRIMAN
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Ms Nozuko Konjwa [email protected]
Ms Sue Skipper [email protected]
Ms Lindsay Davy [email protected]
Ms Cheryl Flanagan [email protected]
Ms Leza-Mari Schoeman [email protected]
Mr Clinton York [email protected]
Ms Jane Jarvis [email protected]
Mr Dominic Marx [email protected]
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Mr Mark Evans [email protected]
Ms Jenny Kingwill [email protected]
Ms René Ferreira [email protected]
Ms Denise Strydom [email protected]
Ms Nontando Mlilo [email protected]
Ms Jayne Euvrard [email protected]
Ms Vivian Kayumba [email protected]
Ms Margie McLeod [email protected]
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Dr Petra Gentz [email protected]
Ms Lesego Libisi [email protected]
Ms Tami Maiwashe [email protected]
Ms Lizzie Rennie [email protected]
Ms Juli Norton [email protected]
Ms Michelle Mason [email protected]
Ms Shelley Stretton [email protected]
Ms Morgan Collins [email protected]
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Ms Wendy Boynton [email protected]
Ms Louise Todd [email protected]
Mr Benji Euvrard [email protected] Ms Louella Sullivan [email protected]
Mrs Susan Baker [email protected]
Ms Christelle Hutchinson [email protected]
Ms Thea Steele [email protected]
Mr Ntokozo Biyela [email protected]
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Mr Wesley Deintje [email protected]
Ms Sandra Marques [email protected]
Dr Ingrid Foster [email protected]
Ms Monica Ives [email protected]
Ms Nicol Gowar [email protected]
Ms Cynthia Gambiza-Nyama [email protected]
Ms Shelly Roodt [email protected]
Rev. Sue Paton [email protected]
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SECTION 2
RULES OF CONDUCT
1 SCHOOL JURISDICTION
The rules and regulations described in this Handbook apply to girls:
when on the school campus and on the campus of St Andrew’s
College;
when on visits, day trips, school tours, any school-sanctioned activity
and/or on any occasions when pupils are representing the school or
can be identified as being a pupil of the school whether in uniform or
not;
during term, half-term, on study leave or during work experience;
when travelling to and from school.
The school reserves the right to investigate and impose sanctions for any
misconduct by any girl at any time beyond the bounds of the school day,
week or term where such misconduct prejudices the reputation of the school
or compromises the welfare of the school community. This includes the
misuse of social media and poor behaviour that may be witnessed and/or
reported to the school.
Whilst these rules and regulations set out a level of response that is normally
appropriate for misconduct, members of staff are always expected to
exercise judgement according to the individual circumstances of the case.
Special or individual circumstances might lead to a lesser or greater sanction
being set. Repeat offending is likely to incur a harsher sanction than would be
given for a first offence.
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2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
DSG is committed to maintaining a safe, supportive environment within
which all girls can feel safe, secure and valued.
2.1 The Head, staff and caregivers have oversight of the rules and
regulations outlined in this Handbook for the promotion of a safe
environment and of good behaviour. The rules and regulations are kept
under review.
2.2 The Head is responsible for the implementation of the day-to-day
management of the rules and regulations.
2.3 Staff, including teachers, support staff and volunteers, are
responsible for ensuring the rules and regulations are followed consistently
and fairly applied. This handbook defines the powers of staff to respond to
misconduct when it occurs.
2.4 Girls are responsible for their own behaviour. They should be fully
aware of the rules and regulations set out in this Handbook as well as the
school’s policies. Girls have a responsibility to report incidences of disruption
of classes, violence, bullying and any form of harassment or discrimination.
Girls are expected to accept sanctions with good grace.
2.5 The Matrics are expected to conduct themselves with integrity and
dignity, serving as role models to younger girls and upholding the rules and
regulations set out in this Handbook.
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3 RESPONSE TO BREACH OF SCHOOL RULES
LEVEL 1: Demerit. Demerits may be given by any member of staff for what
are deemed to be misdemeanours. Three demerits will result in
detention.
LEVEL 2: Detention. Notwithstanding the above, detention may be given for
more serious offences. A straight detention will also incur a
weekend gating. Three detentions will result in referral to the Head,
a letter to the parents and be put on file.
LEVEL 3: Reported to the Deputy Head (pupil affairs). The Deputy Head will
impose an appropriate sanction. A letter will be written to the
parents and a report placed on file.
Sanctions for Level 3 offences include but are not limited to
detention, gating for a specified time, community service and a
warning.
LEVEL 4: Disciplinary Hearing: In a case of serious misconduct, the girl will be
required to present herself at a disciplinary hearing in accordance
with the school’s disciplinary process (see Discipline Policy).
Sanction will be decided by those chairing the hearing.
Sanction for Level 4 offences can include one or more of the
following:
A written warning to be placed on file;
A final written warning to be placed on file;
Close gating;
Community service on or off the school premises;
Suspension from leadership positions;
Suspension from boarding;
Expulsion from boarding;
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Suspension from the DSG;
Expulsion from the DSG.
LEVEL 5: In certain cases, the school may choose to involve the police. Should an investigation of an offence yield additional information, the
response may be escalated to another level.
4 OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE
If serious misconduct has occurred, girls are expected to be helpful to the
staff conducting the investigation. Girls will face sanction up to expulsion if
they:
willfully conceal important information and/or evidence
delete important electronic information/evidence on computers,
smartphones, iPads and/or any electronic device
Should a girl withhold permission for a reasonable request (such as
accessing information on a cell phone), the girl will be deemed to be
obstructing justice. If deemed necessary, external experts may be asked to
gain access to the required information.
If it is found that records have been destroyed, the girl may face further
charges/allegations related to the obstruction of justice and/or dishonesty.
The degree of cooperation offered by a girl facing investigation may be
taken into account in determining the severity of the sanction(s) imposed.
5 SERIOUS MISCONDUCT
DSG girls are not permitted to engage in any of the following actions.
Behaviour that is deemed to have contravened these rules will be regarded
as serious misconduct and will be reported to the Head and/or Deputy
Head(s) and/or the Head of Discipline who will take appropriate action.
Level 4 sanctions will be imposed and if deemed necessary, Level 5
sanctions.
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1. Any acts prohibited by the laws of South Africa and/or in violation of the laws of South Africa.
2. Any criminal activity that might result in a conviction;
3. Purchasing; bringing onto the school property (or any place in Grahamstown); being in possession of; using (which includes testing positive for any of the items described below or being intoxicated as a result of the intake of such substances) and/or distributing:
any tobacco products
alcohol or products containing alcohol
substances prohibited or regulated by law, such as drugs
steroids or any performance-enhancing drugs
prescription drugs for purposes other than so prescribed
anything illegal
any mood-altering substances A girl will be deemed to be in breach of this rule if she purchases
the above in any location during the term or over half-term. She
will be deemed to be in possession of any of the above should
items be found in any area belonging to her or over which she
has unfettered access. This includes but is not limited to her
clothing, her locker, her school bag, her sports bag or any of her
possessions.
4. Any form of initiation or behaviour that may cause hurt and/or humiliation. This includes but is not limited to harmful behaviour that is:
physical
psychological
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verbal – this includes but is not limited to any demeaning, insulting, offensive, or discriminatory language
cyber-bullying, including messages sent by phone and posts on social media
hate speech
5. Fighting and/or bullying and/or any form of intimidation –including but not limited to physical, psychological, cyber bullying
6. Any form of prejudice and/or hate speech. This includes but is not limited to:
Racism
sexism
sexual orientation
references to language spoken
references to class
references to religion
7. Inducing another to become a ‘buck’ or accepting the position of ‘buck’ or any similar position. Claiming authority over another girl outside the formal leadership structures of the school on grounds of tradition or any other reason, or inducing others to do the same;
8. Bunking out/ breaking bounds/ being on the St Andrew’s College campus outside the approved times. Entering any area of a boarding house at St Andrew’s College;
9. Truancy from school or any lesson or school activity at which the girl’s attendance is compulsory, including Chapel. Going to the San for trivial reasons and/or remaining in the House will be considered to be truancy;
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10. Copying or any form of cheating in any test, exam or project. This includes plagiarism: any work submitted for assessment must be the girl’s own work. This applies to homework/ coursework/ examinations and internal assessments. Girls who submit work copied from elsewhere as their own, be it from a peer, text source, internet or any other source, should expect sanction;
11. Disrupting any lessons and/or stopping and/or interfering with the learning of others in the class;
12. Infringing the DSG ITC policy including computer hacking, bypassing the DSG’s firewall or using software that attempts to hide or cloak the user’s identity or the destination;
13. Using abusive language, being rude or showing defiance to a member of staff;
14. Harassing any member of staff or willfully making a malicious allegation against a member of staff;
15. Lying, dishonesty or any form of duplicity. This includes lying to a teacher about the whereabouts of another girl or covering for her during rollcall or other activities; (see also Obstruction of Justice);
16. Failing to tell the truth as part of the investigative process or during a hearing. This includes tampering with evidence such as deleting information on electronic devices and/or withholding passwords for electronic devices and/or attempting to get rid of evidence and/or hiding evidence;
17. Theft that occurs in any place where a girl is under the authority of the school: on the DSG campus; on the St Andrew’s College campus; anywhere in Grahamstown where girls are legitimately required to be as part of a school activity and/or on any sanctioned school tour or excursion; anywhere where a girl is
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wearing the DSG uniform or parts of it, or where she may be identified as a girl of the school even if not in uniform.
Theft includes but is not limited to:
appropriating property without the explicit permission of the owner;
having in her possession another’s property without the explicit permission of the owner;
unlawfully possessing property;
appropriating any item that is the property of the school without the explicit permission of the school’s authority.
18 Fraud or criminal deception or dishonesty, tantamount to theft,
including unauthorised use of credit cards, debit cards or the log
in code of another girl or member of staff;
19 Inappropriate sexual activity, including but not limited to sexual intercourse, sexual harassment, sexual abuse, rape, possessing, viewing or circulating any material deemed by those in authority to be pornographic on school premises or within a school context;
20 Assault and/or harassment;
21 Possessing and/or using any weapons, dangerous toys or
offensive weapons. An offensive weapon is any article made or
adapted for use to cause injury to a person or intended for such
use (including laser pens);
22 Reckless and dangerous behaviour that places others at risk, even when the intention was not malicious;
23 Graffiti, vandalism and/or the destruction of school and/or other people’s property;
24 Public indecency;
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25 Blackmail and/or extortion;
26 Failure to report serious acts of misconduct and/or to assist or cooperate in the investigation of serious and major acts of misconduct;
27 Offensive language or conduct to a member of the public by a girl who can be identified as a girl at DSG;
28 Any action that is sufficiently serious to destroy the relationship of trust between the DSG and the girl;
29 Any deliberate or negligent act that by its consequences brings the name of the DSG into disrepute;
30 Repeated and/or deliberate infringement of any of the school rules, policies or protocols;
31 Refusing to accept the authority of the DSG and/or undermining, deliberately or otherwise, the stated goals and/or rules of the school and/or gross insubordination.
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ALCOHOL
DSG has a zero tolerance policy to alcohol use
No alcohol or substances containing alcohol may be brought onto the school property or that of St Andrew’s College.
No alcohol may be consumed by any girl on the school property or on the property of St Andrew’s College or on any school tour or on any school-sanctioned event or while on Exchange.
Girls may not have in their possession containers that have been used to store alcohol at any time.
Girls may not consume alcohol on the day they return to school.
Any girl who brings the name of the school into disrepute through behaviour
related to alcohol consumption will face disciplinary action.
It is the pupil’s duty to refuse liquor offered in contravention of the rules.
Any breach of these rules will be considered to be a serious offence and
subject to the strongest sanction.
No alcohol or substances containing alcohol may be
brought onto the school property or that of St Andrew’s
College.
No alcohol may be consumed by any girl on the school
property or on the property of St Andrew’s College or on
any school tour or while on Exchange or on any school
sanctioned activity.
Girls may not have containers used to store alcohol in their
possession.
Alcohol may not be consumed during term time, even if the
girl is with her parents or another responsible adult.
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TOBACCO/MOOD-ALTERING SUBSTANCES
No tobacco products or mood-altering substances may be brought
onto the school property or that of St Andrew’s College or be kept in
the Grahamstown area;
No tobacco products or mood-altering substances may be used
by any girl on the school property or on the property of St
Andrew’s College or in Grahamstown.
No tobacco products or mood-altering substances may be used
by any girl during the term or over half term or on weekend
exeats or on school excursions or tours or any school sanctioned
activities.
Girls may not have in their possession any paraphernalia
associated with tobacco products or mood-altering substances.
This includes but is not limited to loose tobacco, cigarette papers,
rolling machines.
No tobacco or mood-altering substances may be used by a girl at
any time where she may be identified as a pupil at DSG, whether
or not she is in uniform.
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6 PASTORAL CARE
When girls hear of, see or are involved in serious misconduct, as described
above, and would like help, there are several people they can turn to. They
can speak to their tutor, their housemistress, the san sister or the school
psychologists – anyone with whom she feels most comfortable. The clinical
and educational psychologists are bound by confidentiality. Anonymity can
be maintained by dropping a note into the box outside the clinical
psychologist’s office.
7 GENERAL RULES and EXPECTATIONS
7.1 DRESS
a. Girls must wear the correct uniform at school, on the way to and from
school and at any event when representing the school off campus.
b. Gyms must be an appropriate length.
c. Stockings and tights must not be laddered.
d. Shoes must be in good condition and be polished.
e. No white or coloured jerseys may be worn under the brown school jersey.
f. White jerseys are not to be worn with sports uniform.
g. White rain jackets can only be worn if it is raining.
7.2 APPEARANCE
7.2.1 HAIR
As a general rule, hair must not be cut, coloured or tied in such a way that it
attracts negative attention.
a. Hair must be neat and tidy and be kept away from the face. This includes braided hair.
b. The colour of hair may not be changed to an unnatural shade.
c. Accessories must be white, brown, green or silver.
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d. Dreadlocks are to be neat and tied up away from the face.
e. Cornrows must be straight back and neat.
f. Extensions must be the colour of the natural hair and be an
appropriate length as determined by the Housemistress.
g. Hair touching the shoulders must be tied up.
7.2.2 MAKEUP
a. Make-up and coloured nail polish may only be worn with civvies and
for dances and socials.
b. Clear nail polish may be worn at other times.
c. Long false nails of any description are not permitted.
7.2.3 JEWELLERY
Jewellery may only be worn on Sundays and for socials and dances. Permitted at all times: * Small cross or St Christopher on a thin chain; * Medical bracelet (the San Sister is to be notified in this regard); * Plain studs or sleepers or small- to medium-sized pearls. No
diamonds. No piercings are accepted other than one earing in each earlobe.
Any other items will be confiscated.
7.3. BEHAVIOUR
Chewing gum is forbidden whenever a girl is in uniform.
7.3.1 Girls are required to:
a. be punctual for all school activities such as classes, extramural
activities, sports practices and matches, and outings;
b. attend all extra-mural activities for which they have signed up. If unable to attend, they must excuse themselves well in advance;
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c. keep the campus free from litter. This includes but is not limited to classrooms, Houses, the gardens, the sports fields and the aquatic centre;
d. read and respond to the Daily Notice.
7.3.2 Girls are expected to:
a. be courteous and respectful to all members of staff, irrespective of position held at the school;
b. greet all adults and visitors on the campus and that of St
Andrew’s College;
c. respect the property and rules of St Andrew’s College and any place that is visited, whether as part of a school activity or as individuals;
d. abide by the school’s Code of Conduct.
7.3.3 In public places, when in school uniform, girls are:
a. governed by school rules and policies;
b. expected to be considerate towards other members of the public and behave in a way that brings credit to themselves and the school.
7.4 CHAPEL
DSG is an Anglican school. While we welcome girls of different faiths,
chapel services are compulsory for all girls. Missing chapel services is
taken seriously and the first instance of missing a service will incur a Level
2 sanction. Repeated offences will be elevated to Level 3 sanction. The
following are included:
the Chaplain’s period in each cycle;
the week-day morning services;
Corporate Communion Services;
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Sunday services (boarders). Only those who have signed out for a
sleep-out may miss a morning service. Girls may not go out for the
day before the Sunday morning service.
Dress for Sunday services: uniform as specified or civvies as
approved by the Chaplain. When civvies are permitted, girls are
expected to dress appropriately, according dignity to the place and
purpose of Chapel. No shorts are permitted and shoulders must be
covered.
7.5 CLASSROOMS
The classroom will be governed by the individual teacher holding the
class. The teacher in charge of the class will take responsibility for the
class and impose sanctions for breach of the rules. However, repeated
offences will be elevated to Level 3 sanction.
7.5.1 In the classroom, there is an expectation that:
a. girls will behave in a way that will allow learning in an environment
that fosters mutual respect between staff and pupils and between
pupils. Any disruptions in the classroom are unacceptable as they
prevent other pupils from learning;
b. girls will arrive on time and be prepared for the lesson with the
correct books and notes and iPads charged. A first offence will incur
a warning but sanction will be elevated for repeat offences;
c. notes will be filed and homework diaries kept;
d. if a lesson is missed for any reason (illness, sport, etc.) it is the
responsibility of the girl to find out what has been missed and catch
up the work;
e. a permission slip or email will be provided for a missed lesson;
f. if a teacher does not arrive for a lesson, this will be reported to the
Admin Office within five minutes of the start of the lesson.
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Attendance at all classes is compulsory. Failure to attend class without
permission will be deemed to be truancy and serious misconduct, as
described under Section 3.
8 MOBILE DEVICES
(Cell phones/smart phones/tablets)
The ITC Policy gives the rules pertaining to the use of mobile devices. All
girls are expected to have read the policy and be aware of its contents.
The school reserves the right to confiscate and search phones and other
electronic devices if the owner is suspected of Serious Misconduct or
there is a reasonable suspicion that the device may contain evidence of
Serious Misconduct.
Contravention of the rules may result in the confiscation of the
device for a period determined by the teacher in charge.
9 OUT OF BOUNDS
Breaking bounds is regarded in a very serious light. Girls found to be out
of bounds during the day on the DSG campus will in the first instance be
given a warning and a Level 1 or 2 sanction imposed. Sanction for repeat
offences will be elevated to Level 3.
Being off the DSG campus before supper will in the first instance incur a
Level 3 sanction. Repeat offences will be reported to the Head and the girl
may be required to attend a disciplinary hearing.
Breaking bounds on or off the DSG campus after supper may incur up to a
Level 4 sanction, as the girl is putting her safety at risk.
The following areas are out of bound:
a. The Junior School campus (girls may cross the campus to access the dance studio).
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b. The music school, unless authorised to be there for official commitments.
c. All classrooms and passageways after the conclusion of formal lessons, unless with permission.
d. The sports fields, courts, aquatic centre and outdoor swimming pool unless for specified training or formal sports fixtures.
e. St Andrew’s College except during official lesson times, unless with permission.
f. Rhodes University campus except for those who live on the campus or an authorised outing has been arranged. ‘The campus’ refers to the area between African Street, Somerset Street and Lucas Avenue.
g. Any student digs or accommodation.
h. For boarders, any home in Grahamstown when an adult is not present.
i. A day girl’s home without prior permission.
j. Anywhere off campus, if not signed out.
10 DETENTION
Detention will take place in Josie Wood on Friday afternoons from 15:00 –
18:00.
a. Detention takes precedence over every activity. Only the Head of
Discipline or the Deputy Head can excuse a girl from detention.
b. Any member of staff can give a demerit and demerits can be given
for any breach of school rules.
c. Demerits accumulate over the course of the year.
d. Three demerits will result in detention.
e. Three detentions or more will be reported to the Head, and a letter
will be sent to parents and placed on the girl’s file.
f. For more serious offences, a straight detention can be given. In
such instances, the girl will also be gated for the weekend.
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11. OPEN CAMPUS
1.1 TIMES:
Monday – Friday 16:00-17:00
Sunday 15:00-17:00
1.2 BOUNDS
a. The DSG campus except the Junior School grounds.
b. Grade 8 and 9 girls are restricted to the DSG campus.
c. Grade 10, 11 and 12 girls may visit the St Andrew’s College
campus in the tuckshop quad only.
d. When it is raining, the campus will not be open.
e. No pupils are allowed inside the buildings or classrooms.
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SECTION 3
DAILY ROUTINES For academic purposes, the school works on a two-week cycle (Week A and
Week B) as shown in the school calendar. Other activities have a weekly
routine. Teaching periods are 45 or 50 minutes long, with seven-minute breaks
for moving to the next class. There is one lesson after lunch every day except
Wednesdays, when there are clubs.
Daily Routine
06:00 Rising bell
06:30 Breakfast
07:15 Register period (Monday and Thursday)
07:30 Classes start
13:05 Lunch for Grades 10 to 12
13:20 Lunch for Grades 8 to 9
14:05 Afternoon lesson
15:00 Sport and other afternoon activities
16:00 - 17:00 Open campus
17:00 Early prep/cultural activities
18:00 Supper (Grades 10 to 12)
18:15 Supper (Grades 8 and 9)
19:00 Prep
20:30 Roll Call
21:00 Grade 8 and 9: Lights out. Silence to be observed
22:00 Grades 10: Lights out. Silence to be observed
Grades 11 and 12: Silence to be observed
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Saturdays
07:00 Breakfast
08:00 Sports matches
10:00 Town leave if no matches
12:50 Roll call
13:00 Lunch
18:00 Supper
20:30 Roll Call
Sundays
08:20 Tea and rusks
08:45 Roll Call
09:00 Chapel, if there is a morning service
Breakfast, if no Chapel service
09:45 Breakfast after morning Chapel
13:00 Lunch
13:15 – 15:00 Quiet time
15:00 Town leave permitted
15:00 – 17:00 Open campus
18:00 Return to school from exeats
Supper
19:00 Chapel, if there is an evening service
20:00 Dormitory Inspection
20:30 Roll Call
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THE SCHOOL DAY
Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
06:30 BREAKFAST
07:15 TUTOR PERIOD TUTOR PERIOD
Week A Week B
Mo
n Tues Wed Thurs Fri Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri
07:30 Period
1
Cycle
Test
Cycle
Test
08:20
Period
2
09:15
Period
3
10:05 BREAK
10:40
Period
4
11:30
Period
5
12:25
Period
6
CD
/PR
EP/
CU
LTU
RA
L
ASS
EMB
LY
CH
AP
EL
TUTO
R
ASS
EMB
LY
CH
AP
EL
TUTO
R
13:05 LUNCH/REST
14:05 Period
7
CLUBS CLUBS
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15:00 DETENTION
15:00 SPORT
16-17:00 OPEN CAMPUS
17:00 CULTURAL/ PREP
18:00 SUPPER: Grades 10–12
18:15 SUPPER: Grades 8 and 9
19:00 PREP/CULTURAL
20:30 ROLL CALL
21:00 GRADE 8 and 9: LIGHTS OUT and SILENCE
22:00 GRADES 10: LIGHTS OUT and SILENCE
GRADES 11 and 12: SILENCE
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SECTION 4
LEAVING THE DSG CAMPUS
EVERY TIME A BOARDER LEAVES THE DSG CAMPUS (EXCEPT DURING
THE COURSE OF THE NORMAL SCHOOL DAY) SHE MUST BE SIGNED
OUT OF THE HOUSE WHEN SHE LEAVES AND MUST BE SIGNED BACK IN
ON RETURN
4.1 WITH PARENTS
4.1.1 WEEKEND SLEEP-OUTS
a. A sleep-out is a weekend away from the school.
b. Sleep-outs are granted from Friday 15:00 to Sunday 18:00.
c. Friday sleep-outs are granted on condition that all school commitments
on Fridays and Saturdays are honoured. Failure to do so will result in
disciplinary action being taken.
ONLY THE HEAD OR DEPUTY HEAD IS ABLE TO GRANT PERMISSION TO MISS
FRIDAY AFTERNOON AND/OR SATURDAY COMMITMENTS.
Girls travelling on school or public transport are subject to all
school rules.
All girls, when leaving the campus must be in formal uniform
or chinos. This applies to girls leaving the campus for sleep-
outs during the school term and when leaving the campus at
the end of term and at the beginning of half-term. Girls must
also wear formal dress or chinos when arriving back at school
after the holidays and half-term, whether travelling on public
or private transport.
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Number of Sleep-Outs
a. Each girl is allowed two sleep-out weekends in Terms 1 and 3.
b. In Term 2, girls are allowed three sleep-outs.
c. It is recommended that the sleep-outs be taken either side of half-term.
d. Matrics are granted one additional sleep-out weekend in Terms 1 and 3.
e. Girls may take up to three friends on a sleep-out.
Permission for Sleep-Outs
a. Sleep-outs will only be granted with a written request from the parent
or guardian.
b. Written requests (emailed) from the parents must reach the
Housemistress by 20:00 on the Thursday preceding the requested sleep-
out.
c. A maximum of three guests may be invited out at a time. For special
occasions, refer to section 4.4.
d. Parents or hosts must sign the pupil out and back into the House.
e. If friends have been invited for a sleep-out, written permission from
the parents/ hosts and the friends’ parents must be received by the
Housemistress no later than the preceding Thursday evening.
4.1.2 SATURDAY AND SUNDAY EXEATS
Girls may go out for the day on either a Saturday or a Sunday, but not
both (any exceptions made will be at the discretion of the
Housemistress)
The following rules apply:
a. All school commitments must be honoured.
b. If there is a morning Chapel service, girls may only leave after the
service.
c. If there is no morning service, girls may go out from 08:00.
d. Girls must return to school by 18:00.
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e. Girls may take up to three friends out for the day, with written
permission from the friends’ parents.
f. Girls must be signed in and out by the adult who is hosting them for
the day.
4.1.3 OUTINGS DURING THE WEEK
While girls may go out during the week, we strongly recommend that
the number of these exeats be limited. Girls, especially those new to
the school, need to be integrated into their peer group and too many
exeats can disrupt this process.
DRESS: FORMAL UNIFORM
Evening Outings
a. Girls may go out in the evening with their parents or a relative by prior
arrangement: a request must be received by the Housemistress at least
24 hours prior to the outing.
b. Such outings may take place between 18:30 and 20:30.
c. Girls must be signed both out and in by their parent or host.
d. Formal uniform to be worn.
e. No friends may be invited.
Lunch Outings
a. Girls may go to town for lunch between 13:05 and 14:05 with their
parents or relatives, with permission from the Housemistress.
b. Girls must return in time for their afternoon class (no exceptions made).
c. Girls’ parents or host must sign them both out and in.
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4.1.4 BIRTHDAYS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS
a. Girls may take a group of friends out for lunch, supper or the weekend.
b. Permission must be obtained from the Deputy Head.
c. All friends’ parents and the hosts must give written permission for their
daughter to partake in such a function.
THE HOST PARENT MUST BE PRESENT AT THE FUNCTION
4.2 CLOSED WEEKENDS
During a closed weekend, pupils may not take sleep-outs.
4.2.1 THE FIRST WEEKEND OF TERM
a. Town leave as per normal school rules.
b. Parents may take girls out for lunch or dinner.
c. Girls may take up to three friends out for lunch or dinner with their
parents.
d. Over-boarder pupils may take a Saturday night sleep-out with
permission from the Deputy Head.
4.2.2 RHODES O-WEEK, INCLUDING THE WEEKEND
a. No sleep-outs
b. No evening town leave
c. No visits to any home in Grahamstown
d. Saturday and Sunday town leave during the day as usual
4.2.3 NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WEEKEND
Girls may take sleep-outs with their parents (no guests).
4.2.4 DSG/ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE DANCES
No sleep-outs on the night of the dance.
4.2.5 K-DAY
No Friday sleep-outs are permitted.
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4.3 WRITTEN PERMISSION REQUIRED
a. For a girl to invite a friend for half-term or a sleep-out weekend, from
the friend’s parents and the hosts.
b. For a lift, other than with parents. During the term, no girl may be
driven by a driver under the age of 23 years.
Information should be emailed to the Housemistress by the Thursday
before the weekend.
4.4 RESTRICTIONS
a. No girl may be collected by someone under the age of 23 unless it is her
brother or sister who has been so authorised by her parents in a letter
to the school.
b. Girls may not visit private homes without the permission of the host
parent. The Housemistress reserves the right to deny this privilege.
c. Girls are not permitted to visit student digs.
DAY GIRLS who host boarders on leave-outs or sleep-outs must familiarise
themselves with the rules.
4.5 GIRLS’ OUTINGS
4.5.1 OFF-CAMPUS LEAVE
Girls are permitted to go out (in groups of at least three) at the
following times:
Saturday (Formal uniform) 10:00 – 12:30 (if no sports fixtures) 18:30 – 20:30: Grades 10 – 12, at the discretion of the Housemistress
Sunday (Civvies) Grade 8 – 10: 15:00 – 17:00 Grades 11 – 12: 12:45 – 17:00
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Boundaries
Girls must be in groups of three
Girls are permitted to go to Peppergrove Mall.
Permission must be obtained from the Housemistress if a girl needs to go anywhere else in Grahamstown.
Girls are to familiarize themselves with the permitted routes to take (obtainable from the Housemistress).
4.5.2 MID-WEEK EXEATS
Matrics may go to town on Wednesdays from 15:00–17:00
Girls may request permission from their Housemistress, the Head or the Deputy Head for additional town leave in exceptional circumstances.
4.5.3 TUTOR OUTINGS
Tutor outings are arranged at the discretion of the tutor; they are not a right and may not necessarily be arranged as a matter of course.
School uniform is to be worn.
4.5.4 OUTRUNS
Girls may leave the school campus to go on out-runs.
a. Girls must be in groups of three or more (Matrics may run in pairs); b. Girls must sign out of their House and with the member of staff on
duty at the main gate; c. Girls must remain on the permitted route as specified by the
Director of Sport; d. Dress: sport uniform; e. Time: 16:30–17:30 f. No earphones g. No outruns permitted during O-week, the National Arts Festival or
when the girls’ safety is deemed to be at risk.
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4.5.5 VISITS TO THE BEAUTICIAN Girls are permitted to make appointments with the following:
a. Siya (Corner of Somerset and African Streets)
Times: Monday to Friday 15:00 – 17:00 Saturday 08:00 – 13:00
Dress: Skorts or tracksuits (unless not coming directly back to school. In such cases, uniform must be worn).
Requirements: a. The Housemistress must be informed of the
appointment in advance b. Girls must go in pairs c. Girls must sign out
b. Sheena Price
Times: Monday to Friday 15:00 – 19:00 (Matrics to 20:00) Saturday 08h00 – 13h00
Dress: Skorts or tracksuits (unless not coming directly back to school. In such cases, uniform must be worn).
Requirements: a. The Housemistress must be informed of the
appointment in advance, and be confirmed by Ms Price
b. Written permission from parents to be transported in Ms Price’s vehicle
c. Girls must sign out All other appointments must be made during normal town leave times.
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SECTION 5
GENERAL INFORMATION
5.1. CLOTHING EXCHANGE and BOOKROOM
Monday to Thursday: 10:00–10:30 13:00–14:00 15:00–15:30 Friday: 10:00–10:30
5. 2. DANCES
DSG holds three formal dances each year:
The Matric dance in Term 1, organised by the Grade 11s.
The ante-matric dance: for Matrics and Grade 11s, organised by the Grade 10s.
Prefects’ dance: for the Grade 10–12 girls, organised by the prefects.
5.2.1 ARRANGEMENTS FOR DANCES
a. Permission must be obtained from the Head to bring partners who
are not St Andrew’s College pupils.
b. Permission must be obtained from the Head to bring anyone other
than parents and partner to the Matric pre-dance drinks (18:00 in
the Chapel quad).
c. Girls may sleep out on the Friday before the Matric dance. This is
considered to be an open weekend; a sleep-out taken on the Friday
evening will not count as a sleep-out.
Normal sleep-out rules apply.
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d. No sleep-outs may be taken on the night of the DSG, St Andrew’s
College, Kingswood College or any other school’s dances.
e. Boarders are required to get ready for the dance in their own Houses and must have checked into the House by 16:00.
f. Day girls must be in their Houses at 17:30 on the day of the dance
for a dress check with the boarders.
g. All girls (including day girls) must have their names checked off
on the House lists before going to the dance.
h. No girl may be driven to any dance by a person who is 23 years old
or younger. Parents must give written permission for a girl to be
driven to any dance by anyone other than the parent.
i. No girl may leave during the dance without the permission of
the member of staff on duty.
j. After the dance, all boarders are to return their Houses in the
transport provided, and have their names checked off. Girls
must be back in the House fifteen minutes after the dance has
ended. Parents or responsible adults should fetch day girls.
Boarders must sleep in their House.
2.2 WHO MAY ATTEND DANCES?
Grades 10, 11 and 12 girls may attend dances.
Girls in Grades 10, 11 and 12, if their parents approve, may be granted
special permission by the Headmistress to attend a dance where there
is no DSG group present. They must however, obtain the permission of
the Headmistress before accepting invitations to such dances.
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5.3. DAY GIRLS
5.3.1 ATTENDANCE AT FUNCTIONS
Day girls must attend compulsory functions such as Corporate
Communion, Youth Day, prize-giving, the interhouse gala and the
interhouse athletics.
Day girls are expected to attend sports functions such as 1st team
matches
For evening functions with the school, day girls must meet the
boarders at school. After the function, girls may either return to school
with the boarders, in which case parents can fetch them from their
Houses after the function, or permission may be obtained from the
escort to fetch them directly from the venue at the end of the
function.
5.3.2 NON-DSG ACTIVITIES
Day girls must obtain permission from the Headmistress before
accepting parts in non-DSG plays, concerts etc.
5.3.3 ABSENCE
A note explaining any absences from school or extramural activity is
required. The school must be notified by 08:00 if a day girl will not be
attending school.
5.3.4 DRESS To school and at school functions: The same dress rules apply to day
girls and boarders. This includes matches at St Andrew’s College or
other schools in Grahamstown.
Coming to and leaving school: Day girls wear normal school uniform.
When shopping in town: if not in civvies, day girls should wear school
uniform.
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5.3.5 TRANSPORT to SCHOOL DSG girls with a driver’s licence who wish to drive themselves to school
in their own car, must submit a copy of their licence to the school as
well as a letter of permission from their parents. Girls with licences
may not transport any DSG girl.
5.3.6 MEALS and BOARDING
Day girls may have meals in the dining hall with the boarders, if they
have signed up at the beginning of term to do so. They may not have
meals in the dining hall or stay over in the Houses unless arrangements
have been made with the school to do so.
5.3.7 NOTICES
As communication with day girls is sometimes a problem, day girls
must read the Daily Notice, notices on the day girls’ notice board and
any emails with information.
5.4 DINING HALL
a. Attendance at all meals is compulsory for boarders.
b. No pupil may enter the kitchen area.
c. Appropriate behaviour is expected in the dining hall.
d. Girls must wear school uniform or sports uniform to all meals
except Saturday dinner and Sunday meals, when civvies may be
worn. House hoodies may be worn to supper. No other dress or
pyjamas are permitted.
e. Shoes (not slippers) must be worn.
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5.5. UNIFORM
For classes, girls must wear the school uniform as outlined below. They may wear
sport uniform to the lesson after lunch on Mondays and Wednesdays. If the lesson
after lunch is on the St Andrew’s College campus, full tracksuits or skorts must be
worn. White shorts may be worn only on the DSG campus or on outruns only.
5.5.1 EVERYDAY UNIFORM
Summer Winter
School gym Girdle Shirt: white, short-sleeved Socks: short Shoes: brown lace-up or sandals. Jersey: long-sleeved or sleeveless, when necessary White Drimac (only when raining)
School gym Girdle Shirt: white, long–sleeved School tie Brown tights Brown trousers (optional) Shoes: brown lace-up School jersey: long-sleeved or sleeveless School coat Brown gloves School scarf
ALTERNATIVE UNIFORM
Chinos
DSG white sports shirt
Brown school jersey (if necessary)
White tackies (not Tomy tackies)
Chinos
White long-sleeved shirt and tie
Brown school jersey
Ankle-length brown boots with 40 mm
heel or lower, or school shoes
School coat or sports jacket
When? During Term 1 Term 3
When?
During Term 2 Optional until half-term in Term 3
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5.5.2 FORMAL UNIFORM
Formal Green: Summer Formal Brown: Winter
School gym Girdle Shirt: white, short-sleeved or long-sleeved with tie Stockings Jersey: white pullover, if necessary School blazer
School gym Girdle Shirt: white long-sleeved, with tie Brown tights White pullover: long-sleeved or sleeveless School coat Scarf
ALTERNATIVE UNIFORM (with prior permission)
Chinos DSG white sports shirt White jersey (if necessary) White tackies (not Tomy tackies)
Chinos White long-sleeved shirt and tie White jersey Ankle-length brown boots with heel 40 mm or lower, or school shoes School coat
When?
Leaving and returning to the DSG campus (holidays) Travelling on public transport
As directed
When?
As directed
5.5.3 SPORTS UNIFORM
Short-sleeved white DSG golf-shirt
Green skorts (white shorts are permitted as an extra)
Sports shoes (predominantly white, no Tomy tackies)
Tracksuit
Tracksuit pants may not be worn without a tracksuit top. On the DSG
campus, a tracksuit top may be worn with white shorts. On the SAC
campus, a full tracksuit or skorts must be worn.
No jerseys, white or brown, may be worn with the sports uniform.
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Matches: Tennis, squash, hockey and netball
As specified by the particular code
5.5.4 AQUATICS
Swimming cap
School swimming costume
Goggles
Towel
Club swimmers may swim in FINA-certified swim wear for galas
Caps must be worn when swimming
Caps may be house colours, DSG caps or club caps
Girls must be appropriately dressed on the way to or from swimming.
It is not permitted to walk from the aquatic centre to the House with
just a towel for cover.
5.5.5 DANCE (Contemporary and Ballet)
As specified by Ms Openshaw
5.5.6 CIVVIES
These may be worn on Sundays and in the Houses in the evenings.
Except for Sundays, civvies may not be worn off the DSG campus at any
time unless special permission to do so has been given.
5.5.7 DANCES
DRESS INSPECTION
If there is any doubt about the suitability of a dress, the housemistress
should be consulted before the time to avoid any unnecessary
complications. To this end, photographs of dresses (front, back and
sides) must be sent to the housemistress on the Monday before the
dance. Once the dress has been approved, it may not be changed
without informing the housemistress.
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An inspection of dresses will be held before the dance. Day girls are
required to attend the dress inspection in their respective Houses.
MATRIC DANCE (DSG AND SAC) AND ANTE-MATRIC DANCE (DSG)
Dress: White or off-white evening gown.
The dress should not be too revealing:
sides fully covered
lace bodices to be fully lined to be appropriate
cut-outs to be appropriate
no exposed midrifs
back to be cut no lower than the dimple
front no lower than the bra line
side slits no higher than mid-thigh
dresses no shorter than mid-thigh
not too tight (as determined by the Housemistress)
Shoes, Accessories and Trimmings: may be coloured
OTHER DANCES
The same criteria regarding what is appropriate dress apply, but dresses
may be coloured.
Dance dresses need to be approved by Housemistresses at least a week in
advance and Housemistresses have the authority to determine the
appropriateness of the dress. While every effort is made to accommodate a
girl’s choice, dresses that are deemed to be unsuitable will not be
permitted.
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5.6. LIBRARY
a. The library is open for general use between 07:30 and 20:30 on
weekdays.
b. Girls may work in the library during Prep if they have permission to
do so from the person on duty in the House.
c. Girls may use the St Andrew’s College library between 16:00 and
17:00 on weekdays.
5.7. LARGE GATHERINGS These refer to events such as but not limited to: Assembly, Chapel,
productions, guest speakers, special occasions such as Youth Day, and Prize-
Giving. The required behaviour also applies when at the theatre, during
speeches, etc. The following behaviour should be observed:
a. Dress: if formal, keep blazers on until invited to take them off or
until the Guest of Honour or MC does so.
b. Be punctual.
c. Sit up, face the front and look at the speaker.
d. Don’t change seats or leave early.
e. Don’t drink, eat or chew gum.
f. Don’t communicate with people around you.
g. Don’t use mobile devices.
h. Participate in what is happening and respond appropriately (e.g.,
laughter, applause, singing, etc.).
i. When leaving, stand back for guests.
j. If invited to the front to be congratulated, come up promptly and
ensure you are neat.
k. Shake hands firmly and stand close enough so that you don’t have to lean forward.
l. Look the person in the eye and acknowledge the congratulations.
When singing the National Anthem:
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a. Stand with your hands at your side or in front of you (don’t fold your arms).
b. If it is not your National Anthem and you do not wish to sing it, you should nevertheless stand to attention, out of respect.
5.8. ROLL CALL
Roll Call is taken in the Houses. Attendance is compulsory
Monday – Friday: 20:30
Saturday: 12:45 and 20:30
Sunday 08:45 and 20:30
5.9. SAN
Girls can go to the San at the following times:
During the week
07:00 – 07:20: Doctor’s clinic (By appointment only)
Break
13:30 – 14:00
15:00 – 15:30
Saturdays
07:30 – 10:00
17:30 – 18:00
Sundays
17:30 – 18:00
Any girl who comes to the San out of these hours must have a note
from a teacher or Housemistress/Housemother
5.10. SCHOOL PERIOD
Attendance at events scheduled during the school period is compulsory (Assembly, Chapel, Tutor, etc.)
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5.11. SPORT
Girls who are in Grades 8, 9 and 10 must participate in at least one summer sport and at least one winter team sport. Grades 11 and 12 are required to do a sport but this does not have to be a team sport. Girls are required to participate in a minimum of two hours of sport a week. All sport practices and matches are compulsory and girls may not miss sporting commitments on a Friday or Saturday to take a Friday sleep-out.
SUMMER
Athletics
Squash
Swimming
Tennis
Basketball
Water polo
Social Fitness / Pilates/Step up
WINTER
Hockey
Netball
Squash
Tennis
Swimming (A-squad)
Social Fitness /Pilates /step Up
Horse riding is recognised by the school but is outsourced to an external club.
Transport is arranged to take girls to the stables and bring them back to
school. The member of staff in charge of riding is Ms Shelly Roodt
Pilates and step classes. These extra activities are for the parents’ account.
Girls also have the opportunity to go on outruns but these are not an
alternative to the sports programme.
5.12 DANCE
Ballet (RAD) and Contemporary Dance are offered on the school campus
where girls are prepared for external examinations and present
performances during the course of the year. This demanding discipline is
both a physical activity and an art form and requires a high level of
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commitment. For Grades 8 and 9, sport (in terms of the above) is
compulsory; girls may take dance as an extra activity and fit it into their
schedules. From Grade 10, girls may obtain permission from the Deputy
Head and/or Sports Director to take Dance as an alternative to sport.
Dance lessons are for the parents’ account.
5.13. TRANSPORT
The Travel Office is situated on the St Andrew’s College campus and is
headed up by Mrs Ann Bryan. She will make the half-term and end-of-term
travel bookings and arrange for transport to and from the Port Elizabeth
airport. Passports and air tickets should be handed in to Mrs Bryan when you
get to school; she will make sure that you have the necessary documents
when you need them again.
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SECTION 6
ACADEMIC ASSESSMENT
6.1 CASS AND PROMOTION MARK
The format for the Term 3 reports is in line with the new Matric (National
Senior Certificate) policy. In addition to recording your Term Order and your
November Exam Order, your report will include a CASS mark and a
promotion mark.
CASS stands for ‘Continuous Assessment’ and the mark is a reflection of your
performance across a range of assessment tasks throughout the year. Each
subject has its own requirements for arriving at this mark.
The Promotion Mark combines the CASS mark and the mark from the
November Exam Order.
In Grades 8 and 9, the ratio is: CASS 40%: Exam Order 60%
In Grades 10 – 12, the ratio is: CASS 25%: Exam Order 75%
In the Languages and those subjects with a practical component, the ratio is
50:50
6.2 PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS In Grades 8 and 9, the minimum requirement for promotion is that a pupil
must achieve marks of:
50% in three subjects, one of which is English Home language
AND
40% in three subjects, one of which is Mathematics
AND
30% in the First Additional Language
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Should the promotion requirements not be achieved, a Condonation
Committee will decide whether or not the pupil will be allowed to proceed
(ATP) to the next Grade under certain conditions.
In Grades 10 – 12, the minimum requirement for promotion is that a pupil
must achieve a promotion mark of:
40% in three subjects, one of which is English Home Language
AND
30% in three subjects
If the pupil gets less than 30%, the CASS requirements for that subject should
still be fulfilled.
Should the promotion requirements not be achieved, a Condonation
Committee will decide whether or not the pupil will be allowed to proceed
(ATP) to the next Grade under certain conditions.
6.3 APPLICATION MARKS
For all Term Orders, in addition to the marks you attained, you are awarded
application ratings for each subject. These are awarded on the basis of how
well you have applied yourself to your work. The points are awarded on a
four-point scale for the effort, interest and involvement you’ve shown. The
interpretation of these is shown below, and your application rating is shown
in your end-of-term report.
L: Lacking
O: Ordinary
P: Praiseworthy
R: Remarkable
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6.4 AWARDS
6.4.1 ACADEMIC
In addition to the awards made at Prize-Giving, academic awards may be
made during the course of the year.
Examinations missed for reasons other than documented illness will be noted
as DNW (Did not write). In the case of illness, a rank order based on the Term
Order will be given; in the case of a DNW, no rank order will be given.
Merit award for academic achievement in Grade 8 (certificate)
An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Examination Orders.
Merit award for academic achievement in Grade 9 (certificate)
An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Examination Orders.
Merit award for academic achievement in Grade 10 (certificate)
An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Examination Orders
Merit award with Half Colours for academic achievement (either in Grade 9
or in Grade 10) (Acorn badge plus certificate)
An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous
Assessment; Grades 8 and 9 OR Grades 9 and 10 Examination Orders
(Two consecutive years of such results to achieve an ACORN award)
Merit award with Colours for academic achievement in Grade 11 (Green academic badge and certificate) An average of 75–79% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous Assessment; both Exam Orders
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Merit award with Academic Honours in Grade 11 (Oak leaf badge plus white
academic badge plus certificate)
An average of 80% for: Term Orders in Terms 1, 2 and 3; Continuous
Assessment; Grade 10 and 11 Examination Orders
6.4.2 SPORT
Sports awards are offered in the following categories:
Team
Half-Colours
Colours
Honours
Each sport has different criteria for the various awards. The specifications can
be found in the Sports Policy on our webpage: www.dsgschool.com.
6.4.3 CULTURAL
Commitment to cultural activities within the school is recognized and girls
may earn a CEMA award. Awards are offered in the following categories:
Commended
Highly Commended
Half Colours
Honours (only achieved by very few girls)
The specifications can be found on our webpage: www.dsgschool.com.
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SECTION 7
POLICIES
The following policies are on the DSG website. It is the responsibility of pupils
to read all policies and to adhere to the terms and conditions outlined in
these policies. A lack of awareness of the conditions specified in these
policies will not be accepted as mitigation in the event of any breach of the
rules.
ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
CODE OF CONDUCT
DISCIPLINE POLICY
ICT POLICY (including social media and regulation of mobile
devices)
MEDICINES POLICY
SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY
SPORTS POLICY
SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY
TEST AND EXAM PROTOCOL
TOUR POLICY
WELLNESS POLICY
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