SCHOOL INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES OFFICER SPECIALIST SCHOOL 2021
WELCOME We welcome all students and families as you become part of our Officer Specialist School community. This manual provides an overview of our school for your information and our staff are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our school mission is to create reflective and independent learners for life through a learning community that provides a challenging and secure environment responsive to individual learning needs.
OUR SCHOOL PROFILE Officer Specialist School is a purpose built school providing educational programs for students with mild to severe intellectual and associated disabilities in the shires of Cardinia and Casey. Staff includes special education teachers, a physiotherapist, speech therapists, occupational therapists, social worker and specialist teachers, working collaboratively to provide outstanding learning programs. We believe that every child has the right to learn in an environment of dignity and respect and that effective learning takes place when students are actively engaged, encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and able to build positive relationships. Our vision is for Officer Specialist School to be: ◊ Family friendly and inclusive, valuing diversity of community members as we work towards an enviable future for
our students. ◊ A positive and welcoming community facing the future with courage and celebrating success. ◊ A safe, secure environment in which students feel motivated and empowered and show respect for others and our
environment. ◊ An educational learning community catering for diverse learning styles, abilities and interests. Learning will be
based on Personalised Learning Plans, incorporating both broad curriculum and relevant life skills. Our teaching staff will work in partnership with families to ensure that each student has the opportunity to reach their full potential as an independent citizen. ◊ A school community in which the student is the centre of all we do!
The Officer Specialist School Community has engaged in comprehensive consultative conversation, to clarify its shared vision for education and school values, appropriate for preparing students with additional learning needs for the future.
OUR SCHOOL VISION Our dream at Officer Specialist School is to create a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment that inspires and empowers each member of our community to be their best.
OUR SCHOOL VALUES • • • •
Safe Friendly Respectful Responsible
COMMITTMENT TO CHILD SAFETY Child Safe documents and information available on Compass and the school website. Officer Specialist School is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. This will be the primary focus of our care and decision making. Officer Specialist School has zero tolerance for child abuse. Officer Specialist School is committed to providing a child safe environment where children and young people are safe and feel safe, and their voices are heard about decisions that affect their lives. Particular attention will be paid to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children and children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as the safety of children with a disability.
SCHOOL ORGANISATION 2021 Principal: Denise Munt Assistant Principals: Helene Rowe and Kylie Scott Business Manager : Lisa Forsyth Office Administration: Keli Fox, Georgina Harris, Kay Hutchinson Out of School Hours Care Manager: Jamie Reardon Groundsman : Tom Howard IT Technician : Tolos Mourelatos LEARNING SPECIALISTS Learning Specialists are classroom teachers who also work across the school to lead a specific curriculum area and support teachers to maximise student learning. Digital Technology Adam Marchant Personal and Social Learning
Laura Allen
Maths
Celani Trajano
PRIMARY DEPARTMENT Leaders: Allicia Holdsworth Denis Jenkins
Helene Rowe: AP in charge of Primary Dept
Kirsten Moran
101
Monica Carvill/Britt Natsis
206
Jade Kerchaval
102
Rachel Golden
207
Celani Trajano/Britt Natsis
103
Pheobe Kadi
208
Ashleigh Gardiner
105
Sally Cooper
301
Natasha Stein
106
Ros Stewart
302
Ashlea Clutterbuck
107
Rachelle Jensen
303
Carme Alincomot
108
Marian Mikhiel
305
Sharon Gabin
201
Amy Bartholomeuz
306
Bec Porter
202
Denise Jenkins
307
Elise Ladanyi
203
Sarah Hobbs
308
Yasmin Thompson
204
Jodie Agius/Britt Natsis
401
SECONDARY DEPARTMENT Leaders: Nick Findley Karen Lewis Hayley Ayres
402
Kylie Scott: AP in charge of Secondary Dept Krystie Quinn
501
Laura Allen/Jess Keane
403
Sonal Kulwinder
502
April McInerney
404
Annalise Batchelor
503
Julia Nicholas
405
Clinton Lloyd
504
Dee Padayachee
406
Nick Findley/Karen Lewis
505
Carmen Cappa
407
Adam Marchant
506
Lauren Misso
408
Anastasia Barkolias/Cathy Morgan
601/2
SPECIALIST TEACHERS Leader: Gayle McMillan Food Technology
Gayle McMillan: Secondary Jo Sarafis: Primary Nick Lonsdale Raul Vigilanti Iana Mendygalieva Glynis Vogrig Ron Townsend Kat McCulloch
Physical Education Art Music/Music Therapy Cultural Support Tutoring Program
ALLIED HEALTH
Leader: Fleur Duband Speech Pathologists
Fleur Duband Tori Smith Liz Gray Carlea Ernst
Occupational Therapists
Jess Volkoff Emily Corrigan Alysha Nguyen Julia Holloway
Physiotherapist
Andrew Volkoff
Social worker and Transition coach School Nurse
Susan Daniel Angie Allott
EDUCATION SUPPORT STAFF Leader: Marie Masterson
ES staff are allocated to departments each year.
OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE An Out of School Hours Care Program is currently being trialled at Officer Specialist School. Care is available after school and during school holidays. For more information you can contact the Project Manager: Jamie Reardon 0423691218
SCHOOL TERMS 2021` Term 1 27th January: Staff return to school. Graduating students and new preps will have an Orientation Day on Friday 29th January. All students start Monday 1st February - 1st April Term 2 19th April - 25th June Term 3 12th July - 17th September Term 4 4th October - 17th December
SCHOOL ROUTINE ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL: 9.00AM GATES WILL BE OPENED AT 8.50 AM: PARENTS DROP STUDENTS AT THE GATE HOME TIME: 2.45PM GATES WILL BE OPENED FOR PARENTS TO COME IN AND COLLECT STUDENTS PICKING UP STUDENTS AT THE END OF THE DAY: PARENTS TO COME IN AND COLLECT STUDENTS GATES WILL BE OPENED AT 2.40PM: PLEASE WAIT AT GATES BEFORE THEY ARE OPENED Please be on time to pick up students at the end of the day. Students become anxious if they are not picked up on time. Also our staff are required for meetings and other duties at the end of the day so we find supervision of students difficult at this time.
ABSENCES If your child is going to be absent you MUST notify the school by 9.15am on the day of absence. If a student is away without explanation parents/carers will receive an email at 9.45am notifying them of the absence and requesting that school is notified of the reason. You can phone the office and leave a message on the answering machine - 03 5943 2800 or use Compass (see below)
ADMINISTRATION STAFF Business Manager: Lisa Forsyth Admin Assistants: Keli Fox, Georgina Harris, Kay Harding-Hutchinson Out Of School Hours Care Manager: Jamie Reardon
ASSEMBLY The Primary School Assembly is held every Friday in the school gymnasium commencing at 2.15pm. The Senior School students organise their own assembly and families will be notified of the times. Parents are encouraged to attend the assemblies during which student awards are presented and updates provided on student/class activities and events held during the week. Assemblies were suspended during 2020 due to Covid. We will notify families in 2021 when Assemblies will resume.
CAR PARKING Car parking is available in the designated parking spaces in the school grounds, in front of the school on Parker Street and to the rear of the school on Flanagan Street. Please be aware of the parking restrictions. Our first priority is the safety of the children, so all students and siblings must be carefully supervised in this area. We now have a school crossing in Parker St. Please use this when crossing the road.
CLASS STRUCTURE Officer Specialist School is divided into two sub schools: Primary and Secondary We run a Transition to School Program for the students starting school for the first time and details will be given to families during the enrolment process Student transition from Primary to Secondary School at Officer is dependent on a range of factors that are taken into consideration when determining the class that best meets student needs. Parents are advised at the end of the school year regarding placement for the following year.
COMMUNICATION WITH SCHOOL We value our partnership with families and encourage you to communicate with us. Please read the Communication with Staff Policy included at the end of this book. Each student will have a diary so that you can communicate with your class teacher on a daily basis. You can email the school or teacher through Compass. We also will be introducing more digital communication options in 2021. Your teacher will call from time to time to keep you updated and there is a school newsletter each fortnight. We have Primary and Secondary School Assemblies and you will be notified of times so that you can come along. If you need to speak to your teacher, please feel welcome to phone to arrange a time when the teacher is free. We encourage parents to chat to the teacher at the end of the day so that programs are not disrupted.
SCHOOL PHONE: 59432800 Please feel welcome to ask any questions….our staff are here to help and support.
COMPASS PLATFORM FOR COMMUNICATION, ADMINUSTRATION AND CONNECTION TO SCHOOL Compass is a school management platform which we commenced implementing across the school in 2017. Compass offers many features which we will be bringing online over time the school will advise parents when each of these features become available. Compass is a web-based system that is accessible from any modern web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, or Safari) or by using the Compass iOS app or Andriod app. Each family receives a separate login to Compass which will be provided to you upon commencement at Officer Specialist School. If you have any issues with your app/password please contact the admin staff.
What will Compass do for me? • Monitor your child’s attendance and enter approvals for absence or lateness • Communicate with your child’s teacher, and update family contact details • Download and view your child’s progress and semester reports • Book parent-teacher conferences • Pay and provide consent for events and school fees
COMPLAINTS PROTOCOL Complaints Policy available on the staff drive and website and at the end of this book Through our Complaints Policy, we provide an outline of the complaints process at Officer Specialist School so that parents and members of the community are informed of how they can raise complaints or concerns about issues arising at our school We encourage parents to follow the procedure to deal with complaints arising within the school environment.
EXCURSIONS Throughout the year, students from all year levels may have the opportunity to attend excursions. Additional payment may be required for some excursions. If families are eligible, they can use their Camp, Sports Excursion Fund (CSEF) for these excursions. Please see Administration for forms to apply for this funding. Excursions include extra - curricular activities such as art/theatre productions, swimming lessons, ten pin bowling, community activities. Parent permission forms must be completed prior to the excursion. We use Compass to complete the permissions and you will receive more information at the time. Students MUST have a completed permission form to attend the excursion and will not be able to attend without forms completed This can be done through the Compass site. See the Compass Guide for details
FEES To assist in the effective running of Officer Specialist School and the wide range of programs run by the school, families are asked to pay an annual school fee of $120. This covers all school materials such as books, art supplies, sporting equipment and educational resources. Payments are due in term one and can be paid in full or part payments. You will receive a letter with payment options in week 1 next year. Please speak to Administration if you have any queries about the school fees, including the arrangement of part payments. (See Parent Payment Policy available on Compass and school website)
FIRST AID AND MEDICAL INFORMATION Our school nurse, Angie, is on duty from 9.00am-3.00pm and will coordinate first aid and medical issues. If your child is requires first aid at school, an first aid report form will be completed on the day of the incident and sent home in your child’s diary. Staff will notify parents, usually by phone, if there has been a head injury (even if it is a minor incident) or there are any other concerns. Please do not send students to school if they are unwell. Under Covid Guidelines we must send any student home who has possible symptoms Complex Care Plans Any student with Complex Medical Needs will have a Complex Care Plan completed at a meeting with parents/carers and the team working with the student including: school nurse, teacher, therapists and a leadership representative. These will be reviewed regularly, coordinated by our nurse. Head Lice Head lice are transmitted by having head to head contact with someone who has head lice. Parents are responsible for the detection and treatment of head lice. Please inform the school if your child has head lice and a letter will be sent home to all students in that class providing information for treatment and control. Children are excluded from school until the lice has been treated. Medical Conditions Parents are requested to complete the Medical Form prior to your child commencing school. This form is required to be updated annually or if there are any changes the school should be aware of. STUDENTS MUST HAVE UPDATED FORMS TO CONTINUE ATTENDING SCHOOL Asthma An asthma management plan is required to be completed annually and SIGNED BY DOCTOR . Asthma medication is to be kept with the student at all times and staff will supervise and record administration. Epilepsy An epilepsy management plan is required to be completed annually and SIGNED BY DOCTOR. Allergies The school must be informed of all allergies as soon as any condition is known. Parents will be asked to fill out an appropriate allergy form so that we can monitor all allergies. Allergy forms are available from the office. Anaphylaxis An anaphylaxis management plan is required to be completed annually and SIGNED BY DOCTOR. Epipen will be kept in the student’s classroom. Sun Smart Hats: Each student is required to provide a sun hat which must be worn in terms one and four when they are outside. Please name hats. We are aware that some students refuse to wear a hat but we will encourage them to do so . Sunscreen: Students are encouraged to wear a broad-spectrum, water resistant sunscreen (SPF30+). Sun screen will be applied by teachers for students needing assistance. Students must bring their own, named sunblock to ensure it is suitable for their skin. School will stock an emergency supply and permission forms are required to be completed if you would like staff to apply the school’s sunscreen or if your child will be applying school sunblock.
INCURSIONS An exciting range of incursions are held at Officer Specialist School suited to the age group and learning needs of students. Incursions are activities, visitors and performances held at the school throughout the year and include activities such as woodwork, animal visits, sport sessions, cultural activities, community service visitors and a range of arts performances.
LATE ARRIVAL/PICK UP Please go to main reception and sign your child in and/or out on the iPad located on the main desk at reception. We do ask that you are on time to pick up your child as staff are required to attend meetings and other duties after school. Please telephone reception and advise if you are running late to collect your child.
LEADERSHIP TEAM Principal - Denise Munt Assistant Principals – Helene Rowe and Kylie Scott Specialist Department Leader – Gayle McMillan Primary School Leaders – Allicia Holdsworth and Denise Jenkins Secondary School Leaders – Nick Findley and Karen Lewis Allied Health Team Leader - Fleur Duband
LEARNING PROGRAM Officer Specialist School provides a stimulating and Individual Learning Plan (ILP) for each student. Our classroom teachers, therapists and specialists (the Team Around the Learner), work collaboratively with families to identify the learning priorities for each student. During term 1 you will be invited to a Student Support Group Meeting (SSG) for your child. Your teacher and some of the other team working with your child (Speech therapist, Occupational therapist, Physiotherapist) will meet with you to discuss your child and give you the opportunity to contribute to the development of a plan for him/her. Your classroom teacher will then write up the plan for your child and send it home for you to read. The school programs will work towards achieving the priority goals in your child’s plan as well as a range of learning in each curriculum area and you will receive a mid year and end of year report. You will be offered the opportunity to attend an SSG for your child mid year to discuss their progress and celebrate successes and you are able to request an SSG meeting if you would like one at other times during the year. Our teaching staff are always happy to chat with you about your child and the school programs. If you wish to do so, please make a time after school because teachers need to spend the start of the day settling the class into the daily routine. Individual Learning Plans Learning Plans are written to cover curriculum areas taught in all Victorian schools and adapted to meet the diverse needs of our student population. Each student will have priority goals in: • English: Reading and Viewing/Speaking and Listening/Writing • Maths: Number and Algebra/measurement and Geometry/Statistics and Probability • Personal and Social Capabilities • Health In addition, Learning Focus Topics will provide learning in History, Geography, Science, Arts, Food Technology, Physical Education, Sustainability and Digital Technology.
LOST PROPERTY A lost property tub is situated in the Parent Room. Please see your class teacher if your child is missing any clothing or other items. Parents are reminded to clearly label all clothing and personal belongings to minimise the incidence of lost property.
LUNCH As there is no school canteen, students are required to bring their own drinks, snacks and lunch to school. Soft drinks are not permitted and healthy food choices are encouraged.
MEDICATION If your child requires any medication at school it must be supplied in original packaging with a signed authority and instructions. Medication forms are available from Administration. Medications must come to school via parents/carers or bus supervisor, not carried by students. Medication is kept in a safe and administration is recorded by staff. Parents /carers must notify school administration and class teacher immediately of any medication changes.
NEWSLETTER A fortnightly newsletter is available on Compass and the school website every second Thursday.
PLAYGROUNDS Officer Specialist School has fantastic playgrounds, sand play areas and a cottage garden located in the school grounds. The playgrounds are specifically designed for children of all abilities and offer a host of movement options. In addition to the playgrounds, there are also two large trampolines, bicycle paths, basketball courts, the sports oval and a range of games painted on the asphalt to encourage activities such as ball games. In 2021 construction of two sensory playgrounds will begin.
PROMOTION OF A SAFE AND SECURE ENVIRONMENT: We are a Child Safe School and provide a safe and secure environment for students, staff and families. Our Child Safe Policies are available on Compass and on the school website. All staff, parents and carers are expected to read and enact our school Statement of Values and Code of Conduct. Families are also asked to read the Respect For School Staff Policy at the end of this book and available on the website.
PUBLICITY/PHOTO PERMISSION These forms must be completed when your child commences at Officer Specialist School Photographs may be used for the school newsletters, website and annual magazine. You also have the option for photos to be used only for teaching purposes. If you have not provided written permission, your child’s photograph will not be printed. Further permission forms will also be provided for excursions and visits when photos may be taken.
SCHOOL COUNCIL The School Council comprises representatives of parents and teaching staff. Parent representatives are elected for a two year term. Nomination forms are provided to parents to nominate themselves to be elected to the Council. The role of the School Council is to help set the long term future for the school and maintaining oversight (not management) of the school's operation.
THE SCHOOL SHOW The School Show is filmed on location at our school to deliver behavioural, social, academic and other skills to school communities. The School Show is TV about OUR school, involving OUR students! It's foundation stems from the evidence based principals of Video Self Modelling (VSM) and Video Peer Modelling (VPM) and is underpinned by the School Wide Positive Behaviour Supports framework by George Sugai and Robert Horner. Students are involved in planning, presenting, filming and producing the show in our school studio. They love watching the shows and you can view them too by using the link below. All students who appear in the School Show have parental permission to do so. The school show website: http://www.theschoolshow.com.au/
SCHOOL UNIFORM At Officer Specialist School wearing school uniform is compulsory. See Uniform Policy. The school uniform creates a sense of pride in our school as well as giving our students a sense of belonging. Beleza School Uniforms supply our uniforms with the school motif Phone: (03) 5941 4989 You may also purchase items in the school colours from discount stores and the Parents Association also sell second hand uniforms. The Officer Specialist School uniform consists of: • Navy blue pants/shorts/skort (no leggings please unless under a dress or skirt) • Navy and gold school polo • Navy blue jumper/hoodie/vest
SCHOOL WEBSITE Our school website provides comprehensive information about the school, policies and procedures. It also provides links for useful information, calendar dates, the newsletter, news items, photos and videos. The school website: https://www.officerss.vic.edu.au/
SCHOOL WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT Information and documents related to SWPBS are available on our website School-wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) is an evidence-based framework for preventing and responding to student behaviour. It aims to create a positive school climate, a culture of student competence and an open, responsive management system for all school community members. It includes analysis of data in professional learning teams, implementation of evidence based practices and
organisational systems for establishing safe, purposeful and inclusive school and classroom learning environments while providing the individual behaviour and learning supports needed to achieve academic and social success for all students. Our school values are promoted through the SWPBS program: • Safe • Friendly • Responsible • Respectful
SECURITY It is essential to keep the external school gates closed, especially at drop off and pick up times. This is to ensure the safety of all children. The gates will be unlocked by staff at the beginning and end of the day. Please wait at the gate rather than enter through the main building when picking up/dropping off. During school hours the gates are locked, and access is via Administration.
SECONDARY TRANSITION TO WORK This program provides secondary students with access to work experience and placements to assist with the transition to work and life after school. Programs and activities include resume writing, interview skills, job seeking, L plates information and industry visits. The elements of this program are modified each year to meet the specific needs of students involved.
STUDENT REPORTS Mid year and end of year reports will be provide detailed information regarding your child’s progress towards their learning goals, the class programs and their participation in school life. These can be accessed through Compass.
STUDENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS (SSG) Student Support Group meetings are an opportunity for parents/carers to meet with the teacher and team to discuss the student’s learning program, celebrate successes and discuss student needs. We also welcome parent/carer requests for a meeting throughout the year.
SUSTAINABILITY Students have the opportunity to participate in an exciting range of sustainability programs and activities. The hands on activities include gardening, cooking with ingredients grown and harvested by the students, caring for animals including a turtle, fish and birds.
THERAPY SERVICES Speech pathology, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, will be provided according to the individual needs of the students within a classroom setting. The school does not provide individual therapy sessions. Our therapists work collaboratively with the teachers to plan and support programs. They are an important part of the Team Around the Learner (TAL). They also provide ongoing PD to staff. Our therapists will consult with external therapists working with individual students, however we are unable to have external therapists onsite. External therapists are welcome to join Care Team meetings at parent request and funded by the parents.
TRAMPOLINE At Officer Specialist School students have access to trampolines with close supervision and clear safety rules. For students who have Down Syndrome there is a small risk of neck injury being caused by high impact activities including the use of the trampoline and other jumping activities. To ensure safety all students with Down syndrome will need to obtain medical clearance prior to participating in these activities. We will supply a letter to take to your G.P to obtain medical clearance and this must be returned before students are able to use the trampoline. Medical clearance will need to be obtained every 12 months.
TRANSPORT We have a defined bus zone which may provide bus transport for students in the area. Details on the bus zone, route and times will be provided for you should you require them. Please see our Assistant Principal, Kylie Scott. We must have written or verbal instructions from parents/carers regarding changes to bus arrangements so if your child catches the bus and you need to change arrangements for the day, please write the changes in your child's diary or contact the office by 2.00pm.
VISITORS / STUDENTS SIGN IN AND OUT All visitors and late students must report to the front office. All visitors entering the school building must log in and out, using the Compass Kiosk, which is located at the front desk, with the reason why, time in and location. Students: All late arrivals must be logged in and early leavers logged out by parents/carers.
OFFICER SPECIALIST SCHOOL STATEMENT OF VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT PROMOTING HEALTHY, SAFE AND RESPECTFUL SCHOOL COMMUNITIES Officer Specialist School recognises the importance of the partnership between schools and parents to support student learning, engagement and wellbeing. We share a commitment to, and a responsibility for, ensuring inclusive, safe and orderly environments for children and young people. This Statement of Values sets out our behavioural expectations of all members in this school community, including the principal, all school staff, parents, students and visitors. It respects the diversity of individuals in our school community and addresses the shared responsibilities of all members in building safe and respectful school communities. Discrimination, sexual and other forms of harassment, bullying, violence, aggression and threatening behaviour are unacceptable and will not be tolerated in this school. Our Statement of Values acknowledges that parents and school staff are strongly motivated to do their best for every child. Everyone has the right to differing opinions and views and to raise concerns, as long as we do this respectfully as a community working together. RESPONSIBILITIES AS PRINCIPALS AND SCHOOL LEADERS, WE WILL:
Work collaboratively to create a school environment where respectful and safe conduct is expected of everyone Behave in a manner consistent with the standards of our profession and meet core responsibilities to provide inclusive, safe and orderly environments Plan, implement and monitor arrangements to ensure the care, safety, security and general wellbeing of all students in attendance at the school is protected Identify and support students who are or may be at risk Do our best to ensure every child achieves their personal and learning potential Work with parents to understand their child’s needs and, where necessary, adapt the learning environment accordingly Respond appropriately when inclusive, safe or orderly behaviour is not demonstrated and implement appropriate interventions and sanctions when required Make known to parents the school’s communication and complaints procedures Ask any person who is acting in an offensive or disorderly way to leave the school grounds
AS TEACHERS AND ALL NON-TEACHING STAFF, WE WILL:
Model positive behaviour to students consistent with the standards of our profession Proactively engage with parents about student outcomes. Work with parents to understand the needs of each student and, where necessary, adapt the learning environment accordingly Work collaboratively with parents to improve learning and wellbeing outcomes for students with additional needs. Communicate with the principal and school leaders in the event we anticipate or face any tension or challenging behaviours from parents Treat all members of the school community with respect
AS PARENTS, WE WILL:
Model positive behaviour to our child
Ensure our child attends school on time, every day the school is open for instruction Take an interest in our child’s school and learning Work with the school to achieve the best outcomes for our child Communicate constructively with the school and use expected processes and protocols when raising concerns Support school staff to maintain a safe learning environment for all students Follow the school’s complaints processes if there are complaints Treat all school leaders, staff, students, and other members of the school community with respect AS STUDENTS, WE WILL: Model positive behaviour to other students Comply with and model school values Behave in a safe and responsible manner Respect ourselves, other members of the school community and the school environment Actively participate in school Not disrupt the learning of others and make the most of our educational opportunities
AS COMMUNITY MEMBERS, WE WILL:
Model positive behaviour to the school community Treat other members of the school community with respect Support school staff to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment for all students Utilise the school’s communications policy to communicate with the school
THE DEPARMENT OF EDUCATION AND EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT WILL:
Provide support and advice to principals to equip them to manage and respond to challenging behaviour of students, parents and staff Provide practical guidance and resources to support schools to manage and respond to challenging behaviour of students, parents and staff Provide practical guidance and resources to support schools respond to and prevent bullying and promote cybersafety and wellbeing Provide access to evidence based resources and strategies to increase student safety, wellbeing and engagement Provide schools with practical and legal support as required Provide parents with practical guidance and resources to resolve conflicts with the school
CONSEQUENCES FOR FAILING TO UPHOLD THE STATEMENT OF VALUES UNREASONABLE BEHAVIOURS Behaviours that are considered inappropriate on and adjacent to school grounds or in relation to school business and that do not uphold the principles of this Statement of Values include when a person:
is rude, aggressive or harasses others sends rude, confronting or threatening letters, emails or text messages is manipulative or threatening speaks in an aggressive tone, either in person or over the telephone makes sexist, racist or derogatory comments inappropriately uses social media as a forum to raise concerns/make complaints against the school is physically intimidating, e.g. standing very close
CONSEQUENCES Principals are responsible for determining what constitutes reasonable and unreasonable behaviour. Unreasonable behaviour and/or failure to uphold the principles of this Statement of Values may lead to further investigation and the implementation of appropriate consequences. This may include:
utilising mediation and counselling services alternative communication strategies being applied
formal notice preventing entry onto school premises or attendance at school activities. Written notice will follow any verbal notice given an intervention order being sought informing the police which may result in a charge of trespass or assault By agreeing to meet specified standards of positive behaviour, everyone in our school community can be assured that they will be treated with fairness and respect. In turn, this will help to create a school that is safe and orderly, where everyone is empowered to participate and learn.
RESPECT FOR SCHOOL STAFF POLICY PURPOSE To ensure that members of our community understand Officer Specialist School’s expectations for appropriate interactions with school staff.
POLICY Staff at Officer Specialist School, including teachers, education support staff, office staff, the assistant principal/s and principal are committed to providing a supportive learning environment for all our students. Our staff take their work very seriously and feel privileged to be able to play an important role in each child’s education. In the interest of work/life balance, the staff at Officer Specialist School will only respond to work related emails and calls between the hours of 8.30am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. All staff at Officer Specialist School have a right to a safe and supportive work environment. Officer Specialist School expects that all parents/carers and visitors to our school behave in an appropriate and respectful manner to school staff at all times. There will be a zero tolerance approach to any aggression, intimidation, threats or harassment of school staff, by any means (e.g. in person, by phone, by email, on social media etc). These behaviours may lead to exclusion from school grounds and school activities. The principal may report aggressive, intimidating, threatening or otherwise inappropriate conduct to Victoria Police. The Department of Education and Training may also take legal or other appropriate action against community members or parents/carers who pose a threat to the safety and wellbeing of school staff. Officer Specialist School expects all members of our community to act consistently with our Statement of Values. We are committed to ensuring that staff, parents/carers and students are able to work together in an appropriate and respectful way.
REVIEW CYCLE This policy was last updated on 10/03/2020 and is scheduled for review in 03/2021
COMMUNICATION WITH SCHOOL STAFF POLICY PURPOSE This policy explains how Officer Specialist School proposes to manage common enquiries from parents and carers.
SCOPE This policy applies to school staff, and all parents and carers in our community.
POLICY Officer Specialist School understands the importance of providing helpful and timely responses to common enquiries from parents and carers. In the interest of work/life balance, the staff at Officer Specialist School will only respond to work related emails and calls between the hours of 8.30am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. To ensure that members of our school community are directed to the most appropriate person to assist them, the information below outlines key contacts for common queries: • • •
• • • •
to report a student absence, please contact the school administration by phone on 59432800 (answering machine for out of hours calls) or through the Compass App to report any urgent issues relating to a student on a particular day, please contact school administration on 59432800 to discuss a student’s academic progress, health or wellbeing, please contact your classroom teacher. You can email the teacher via the Compass App, call the school admin and leave a message or speak to the teacher at drop off or pick up. Please be mindful that teachers need time in the morning to settle the class so any communication at this time must be brief. Teachers are available at the end of the day if necessary for enquiries regarding camps and excursions, please contact the classroom teacher to make a complaint, please contact the classroom teacher in the first instance. If the issue is not able to be resolved please contact an Assistant Principal or the Principal. Please also refer to the Officer Specialist School Complaints policy, available on the school website to report a potential hazard or incident on the school site, please contact school administration 59452800 for all other enquiries, please contact our Office on 59452800
School staff will do their best to respond to general queries as soon as possible and ask that you allow us 2 working days to provide you with a detailed response. We will endeavour to respond to urgent matters within 24 hours where possible. Requests for information Parents and carers are entitled to information ordinarily provided to parents, including school reports and newsletters. Parents and carers seeking information that is not ordinarily provided to parents are encouraged to apply for access through the Freedom of Information process, or, if the information is sought for use in court proceedings, by issuing a subpoena. Freedom of Information requests should be directed to: Manager – Freedom of Information Unit Department of Education and Training 2 Treasury Place EAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002 03 9637 3134
foi@edumail.vic.gov.au
COMPLAINTS POLICY PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to: • •
provide an outline of the complaints process at Officer Specialist School so that parents and members of the community are informed of how they can raise complaints or concerns about issues arising at our school ensure that all complaints regarding Officer Specialist School are managed in a timely, effective, fair and respectful manner.
SCOPE This policy relates to complaints brought by parents, carers, students or members of our school community and applies to all matters relating to our school. In some limited instances, we may need to refer the complainant to another Department of Education and Training process where there are different mechanisms in place to review certain decisions, for example, expulsion appeals.
POLICY Officer Specialist School welcomes feedback, both positive and negative, and is committed to continuous improvement. We value open communication with our families and are committed to understanding complaints and addressing them appropriately. We recognise that the complaints process provides an important opportunity for reflection and learning. We value and encourage open and positive relationships with our school community. We understand that it is in the best interests of students for there to be a trusting relationship between families and our school. When addressing a complaint, it is expected that all parties will: • • • • •
raise and discuss issues in a courteous and respectful manner acknowledge that the goal is to achieve an outcome that is in the affected student’s best interests and acceptable to all parties act in good faith and respect the privacy and confidentiality of those involved, as appropriate recognise that all parties, including the broader school community, have rights and responsibilities that must be balanced recognise that schools and the Department may be subject to legal constraints on their ability to act or disclose information in some circumstances.
Preparation for raising a concern or complaint Officer Specialist School encourages parents, carers or members of the community who may wish to submit a complaint to: • • • •
carefully consider the issues you would like to discuss remember you may not have all the facts relating to the issues that you want to raise think about how the matter could be resolved be informed by checking the policies and guidelines set by the Department and Officer Specialist School
Complaints process Officer Specialist School is always happy to discuss with parents/carers and community members any concerns that they may have. Concerns in the first instance should be directed to your child’s teacher. Where possible, school staff will work with you to ensure that your concerns are appropriately addressed. Where concerns cannot be resolved in this way, parents or community members may wish to make a formal complaint to the Principal or Assistant Principal If you would like to make a formal complaint, in most cases, depending on the nature of the complaint raised, our school will first seek to understand the issues and will then convene a resolution meeting with the aim of resolving the complaint together. The following process will apply: 1. Complaint received: Please either email, telephone or arrange a meeting through the front office with the Assistant Principal or Principal, to outline your complaint so that we can fully understand what the issues are. We can discuss your complaint in a way that is convenient for you, whether in writing, in person or over the phone. 2. Information gathering: Depending on the issues raised in the complaint, the Principal, Assistant Principal or nominee may need to gather further information to properly understand the situation. This process may also involve speaking to others to obtain details about the situation or the concerns raised. 3. Response: Where possible, a resolution meeting will be arranged with the [Assistant Principal/Principal] to discuss the complaint with the objective of reaching a resolution satisfactory to all parties. If after the resolution meeting we are unable to resolve the complaint together, we will work with you to produce a written summary of the complaint in the event you would like to take further action about it. In some circumstances, the Principal may determine that a resolution meeting would not appropriate. In this situation, a response to the complaint will be provided in writing. 4. Timelines: Officer Specialist School will acknowledge receipt of your complaint as soon as possible (usually within 48 hours) and will seek to resolve complaints in a timely manner. Depending on the complexity of the complaint, Officer Specialist School may need some time to gather enough information to fully understand the circumstances of your complaint. We will endeavour to complete any necessary information gathering and hold a resolution meeting where appropriate within 10 working days of the complaint being raised. In situations where further time is required, Officer Specialist School will consult with you and discuss any interim solutions to the dispute that can be put in place.
Resolution Where appropriate, Officer Specialist School may seek to resolve a complaint by: • • • • •
an apology or expression of regret a change of decision a change of policy, procedure or practice offering the opportunity for student counselling or other support other actions consistent with school values that are intended to support the student, parent and school relationship, engagement, and participation in the school community.
In some circumstances, Officer Specialist School may also ask you to attend a meeting with an independent third party, or participate in a mediation with an accredited mediator to assist in the resolution of the dispute. Escalation If a parent or community member is not satisfied that their complaint has been resolved by the school, or if their complaint is about the Principal, then the complaint should be referred to the
Regional Office, Department of Education and Training: Dandenong Office Phone: 1300 338 738 Fax: 03 8765 5784 Postal address: PO Box 5, Dandenong, VIC 3175 Location: 165-169 Thomas Street, Dandenong 3175 Officer Specialist School may also refer a complaint to the regional office if we believe that we have done all we can to address the complaint. For more information about the Department’s Parent Complaints policy, including the role of the Regional Office, please see: Parent complaints policy.