Code of Behaviour

The following is a summary of the Discipline for Learning system as operated in this school. The complete document can be seen in the school.

Discipline for Learning is a system based on positive reinforcement of good behaviours and minimisation of attention to bad behaviours. It concerns every aspect of school life and is therefore difficult to summarise. The system is taught to all new entrants over a period of time and revised with all pupils regularly so that everybody knows what is required of them. It requires huge commitment from staff, pupils and parents but is well worth the effort. You will be asked to sign a consent form, which acknowledges your acceptance of our Code of Behaviour.

There are 7 in-class rules and 6 out-of-class rules as follows:

In-class rules

1. Be silent and listen to the person speaking.
2. Be on time and be prepared for class.
3. Do as you are told immediately.
4. Raise your hand and wait quietly for attention.
5. Always do your best and allow others to do the same.
6. Stay seated and be quiet when your teacher is out of the room.
7. Respect everyone and their property.

Out of class rules

1. Do as you are told by all staff immediately.

2. Name calling and bullying are out.  Go to the adult on duty for help.
3. Stay in the school grounds and follow the line-up routine.
4. Obey the lunch routine: i.e. Lunch ------ Toilet ------Play.
5. Walk quietly within the school, No shouting.
6. Rough play, fighting and climbing are out.

The Rewards

When the children don’t break the rules they are rewarded with approval stamps 3 times per day to acknowledge their co-operation. These awards accumulate to give them small treats, lucky dips and ultimately bronze, silver and gold medals. Children can also be awarded special individual awards. Class awards also form part of the system. The code has special provisions for dealing with instances of serious misconduct. It is vitally important that children accept that they will miss a stamp be from time to time.

Failure to obey the rules will result in the following graded sanctions:

1. Verbal Warning
2. Written Warning
3. Isolation within class
4. Isolation in another class
5. 1^st yellow card

Sanctions

When a child reaches 5 in a day the 1^st yellow card will involve a letter home with possible lines or worksheets as appropriate. Parents/Guardians will be asked to sign the worksheet to indicate that they have spoken to the child about her bad behaviour.

If a child incurs 5 sanctions in a day for a second time she receives a 2^nd yellow card. This will consist of a letter requesting the presence of a parent/guardian at the school with the child the next school day to discuss the child’s behaviour and strategies to improve it.

For serious or consistent misbehaviour the National Education Welfare Board Guidelines will be followed according to the School Code of Behaviour.

Nobody expects perfection and all that is required is an attitude of co-operation.

The support of parents/guardians is essential for the effective working of the system.