Boarding Information Handbook

BOARDING INFORMATION HANDBOOK

FOREWARD

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to our Peace Lutheran College Boarding Community. We have Boarders from rural areas and communities throughout Queensland, and from other states, as well as overseas countries. This contributes to a rich cultural environment which both students and staff value.

Our Boarders are accommodated in four individual houses, each with a House Parent in charge of our two girls Houses supported by a Head of Girls Boarding and Head of Boys Boarding who looks after our boys. The houses feature a commonroom, kitchenette, laundry, cubicle style bathrooms and a mixture of shared cubicles for the younger students and individual cubicle style bedrooms for the older students. With your child sharing a room with other students, of the same sex, the house parents’ role is one of making the house a home away-from -home. Students share their meals with one another in the Dining Room.

Throughout the year we see all the boarders develop in a holistic way. This includes, but is not limited to, greater personal responsibility, the ability to get along with others, good study skills, greater social awareness and their own personal faith life. All Boarders are unique to their families, friends and communities. To that end we want to work together to provide the best environment and care possible.

We hope that your association with Peace will be a long and happy one and that all Boarders will enjoy their time here. We are confident every Boarder will forever value the wonderful friendships they make.

This handbook is intended as a guide to living in the Boarding Community and has information which will benefit both students and family members. It attempts to give details of the way the things are done.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

Shane Jurecky Principal – Peace Lutheran College

ABOUT PEACE

Peace Lutheran College is a co-educational college for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 with a boarding component for students between Years 7-12.

Peace Lutheran College is owned and operated by the Lutheran Church of Australia, Queensland District, and is part of the system of Lutheran Schools in Queensland. As well as serving Lutherans in the Far North of Queensland, Torres Strait Islands, Papua New Guinea and further afield, we are a school with a mission to share the good news of salvation through the saving grace of our Lord Jesus with both fellow Christians of other denominations, as well as those of non-Christian backgrounds.

Being co-educational, we are committed to educating students of all cultures together so that they grow to maturity in an environment that reflects the structure of Australian society. As a boarding school, we attract students from outside of the Cairns area, thus adding to our multi-cultural flavour. These students bring their respective backgrounds to the school, enriching the lives of all students by sharing their experiences and ways of life. An integral part of our campus approach is to recognize the cultures of all students in such a way that students benefit from each other’s culture.

OUR MISSION

To develop resilient and compassionate young people who use God’s guidance to contribute positively to our community and the world.

It is through this mission we aim to offer a quality schooling experience where God’s love for every person is evident, and informs all that we do.

OUR VALUES

PEACE – We nurture grace and harmony

EXCELLENCE – We set high aspirations

RESPECT – We value all COMMUNITY – We build positive relationships

OUR VISION

To be at the forefront of effective and innovative education; empowering tomorrow’s citizens, today

This is achieved through our education model, which is a progressive approach to learning; adopting modern-day education transformations that connects classroom learning to real life, better preparing students for their future after school.

OUR LOGO

THE CROSS IS CENTRAL AND SLOPING FORWARD SHOWING WE ARE A CHRISTIAN COLLEGE ON THE MOVE.

AIMS OF THE BOARDING COMMUNITY

The Boarding Community has been an integral part of the life of Peace Lutheran College for the entire history of the school. It has not merely been accommodation for boys and girls, but has in itself been a positive educational experience.

Boarding life provides a structured, supportive and caring educational environment in which boys and girls develop skills and attitudes which prepare them to become contributing and caring adults in modern society.

We believe in maximising the opportunities for boarders by allowing them the flexibility to manage their time to experience all that living in Cairns has to offer. Some examples of these opportunities could be part-time work, outside sporting/cultural activities or even extra study programs or courses.

Our motto is, ‘A great place to be”, and we aim to do this by planning activities and experiences that touch on all aspects of life that our boarders may need during and after their time at the College.

SPECIFIC AIMS OF BOARDING LIFE AT PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

Academic

Students will learn in an environment where it is possible to seek and gain guidance and assistance with academic work, work independently in a quiet and conducive atmosphere and have access to modern educational facilities and resources at all levels of their schooling. They will be taught the necessary skills to work efficiently and independently, yet be encouraged to seek assistance and share ideas when appropriate. They will be encouraged to set their academic sights as high as possible and to work with purpose to achieve their objectives.

Social

Students and staff living in a communal situation do so with the following social values foremost in their minds: trust, co-operation, tolerance, responsibility, respect, loyalty and pride. These values are nurtured within the Boarding Community and developed through activities and experiences both with the students’ families and independently. The “sense of family” and being a part of a special community is an integral and necessary requirement of their boarding experience.

Physical and Cultural

Students participate in appropriate activities which enhance their bodies and minds, broaden their outlook and help in their appreciation of others’ skills and beliefs.

Spiritual

Peace Lutheran College is firmly based on Lutheran values. Students are required to participate in worship and are encouraged to do so in a positive and active manner. They are encouraged to challenge and develop their faith and will, at all times, and are required to strive to live by Christian principles.

In boarding we strive to develop the “whole person”. Your child will be given the opportunity to share, to lead and to serve in various environments and situations so that they have the opportunity to reach their potential in all of the above areas. Our boarding students attend church fortnightly on Sunday mornings either Cairns at the Trinity Lutheran Church or within the Peace Centre at the College.

EXPECTATIONS

There are a number of expectations that the boarding community has of its members. Talking these over with your child, and understanding the importance of these, would help set a framework for them before they begin at Peace Lutheran College.

✔ Peace Lutheran College is a school of the Lutheran Church, and as such, upholds Christian principles. We strive to emulate a Christian community in our residences, with notions of mutual respect, forgiveness, honesty, tolerance and understanding.

✔ Students coming into the boarding community should understand that the nature of large group living inevitably restricts certain aspects of their individual freedom. There is a need for all students to develop a sense of balance between the needs of the individual and the needs of the community.

✔ The boarding community operates on trust. Once that trust is broken by an individual, they forfeit the basic freedoms that are normally allowed until they can show that they are indeed trustworthy and responsible enough to use their freedom appropriately.

✔ Membership of any community requires contribution. For the Peace Lutheran College boarding community to enjoy harmony and happiness, each member of the community must contribute.

✔ Although the relationship between staff and boarding students is one of caring and supervision, staff have authority and, therefore, boarding students must take direction and discipline from staff in a respectful manner.

✔ All students have the right to feel safe in their environment and as such the College views any form of bullying or harassment as very serious. An individual’s personal space and belongings should be respected at all times.

✔ The school area is a NO SMOKING ZONE. Smoking is not permitted and boarding students are absolutely forbidden to have in their possession, bring on to the premises, consume or use any alcoholic beverage or non-prescribed drug, or associated implements. This also applies to leave situations.

✔ In accordance with Peace Lutheran College being a Lutheran Church school, boarding students are expected to attend worship during the term. Worship is held fortnightly on a Sunday morning at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cairns.

BOARDING OPTIONS AND FACILITIES

BOARDING OPTIONS

FULL TIME

A full-time boarder resides at the College on a permanent basis.

WEEKLY

A weekly boarder is a student who generally resides at the College during the week and returns home for the weekend. Typically, in this scenario, a weekly boarder would arrive at the College on Monday morning, reside within the boarding community until Friday and return home for the weekend.

ALL DAY

An all-day boarder is a student who attends school from 7:00am to 7:00pm. The student has all meals provided for them during the day and is also able to stay after school to participate in study sessions with the boarders. This option can be flexible depending on the needs of the family. This option may suit families who work long hours during the day.

TEMPORARY

A temporary boarder is a student who stays in the boarding house for a short to extended period of time. For example this could be for one night, three nights, two weeks or a term.

Dining Hall

The Dining Hall is situated close to all of the Boarding Houses and it is where the boarders enjoy all their meals, including morning tea and lunch while at school.

Boarders Recreation Centre

The Boarders Recreation Centre is exactly as it sounds, a space where the boarders can gather and socialise. The room is fully air conditioned and contains a pool table, air hockey and table tennis table and the students have access to either a PlayStation, Xbox or Wii gaming console. The highlight of the room is the large projector

BOARDING FACILITIES

We have four Boarding Houses, two for boys and two for girls. The Houses are organised so that our Year 7 to 9 students are in our junior Boarding Houses and our Year 10 to 12 students are in our senior Boarding Houses. We are able to accommodate 42 boys and 44 girls across the four boarding houses.

Boarding Houses

We have chosen the names for our Boarding Houses based on the translation of ‘PEACE’ from varying languages that reflect our history and traditions.

BOYS BOARDING

FRIEDEN HOUSE

MARI MARI HOUSE

Frieden is our junior secondary boys house (Years 7-9) and accommodates 22 students.

Mari Mari is our senior boys house (Years 10-12) and accommodates 20 students.

GIRLS BOARDING

MILYN HOUSE Milyn is our junior secondary girls house (Year 7-9) and accommodates 22 girls.

HEIWA HOUSE

Heiwa is our senior girls house (Year 10-12) and accommodates 22 girls.

screen used to watch movies or any number of sporting fixtures that are televised each week. It is a great space that is open every afternoon after school and on weekends to ensure our boarders have a place to socialise

Boarders Kitchen

The Boarders Kitchen is an out of hours facility that the students can use for cooking their own creations or to be used in conjunction with an event that might be televised on the big screen, or for doing something just a little bit different.

STAFF ROLES

The boarding community is operated with the values of the Lutheran Church being paramount. It is not only a boarding facility, but aspires to establish a ‘community’ atmosphere within the context of sound Christian principles. Such a community inevitably finds itself operating in a balance between discipline and individual freedoms, the needs of the individual and the needs of the community as a whole.

It also recognises that the student’s reason for being in the boarding community is to acquire the best education possible. To ensure that aim, every attempt is made to make the residence a ‘home-like’ atmosphere with accessibility to the staff by the boarding students for help with problems encountered during the year.

In their relationship with boarding students, the boarding staff will carry out their position of responsibly with understanding. The relationship is seen primarily as a pastoral relationship, reflecting care and concern, balanced by firm discipline. We always aim to build mutual respect and to develop maturity in your children. Staff should know each child as an important individual who is part of our community.

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE Heads of Boarding

The Heads of Boarding have overall responsibility for the management, development and promotion of the boarding houses. The Heads of Boarding are assisted by a number of staff, including the House Parents and Boarding Supervisors. The Heads of Boarding’s key responsibilities are, leadership of the boarding staff, pastoral care of boarders and administration of the boarding program.

House Parents / Head of House

The House Parents take care of the day-to-day management of the houses and are responsible for the pastoral care of your child. They work very closely with your child, assisting and supporting them with the organisation of many aspects of their life and deal with daily issues. You should communicate any concerns you may have in these areas with your child’s House Parent. House Parents, key accountabilities are as members of the Boarding Leadership Team, administration and the pastoral care of Boarders.

Boarding Supervisor/Gap Students

The Boarding Supervisors are responsible for supervision of the Boarders and assist in the Boarding Houses during the House Parents time off. They also help within the Homework program, and assist fulfilling different positions to ensure all the Boarders have access to services.

STAFF TRAINING

All staff employed by the College must submit a police clearance, have a blue card and undergo an interview with the Heads of Boarding prior to their commencement. They are presented with the policies and procedures for the Boarding Community at the beginning of their employment. All new staff members undergo an induction program to familiarise themselves with the policies, procedures and the operation of the Boarding Community and receive revised copies of the Policies and Procedures Staff Handbook at the start of each academic year. Regular meetings are held to discuss and elaborate on these policies and procedures and changes are made to the documents when necessary.

Staff undergo both summative and formative appraisal during the year and professional development is available to staff throughout the year through organisations such as the Australian Boarding Schools Association (ABSA) and Boarding Australia.

COMMUNICATING WITH THE BOARDING COMMUNITY

Your first point of contact is your child’s House Parent. If there is something bothering you about your child’s progress or you just want to talk about things in the boarding house, please let us know. We enjoy hearing from you, as most times what you have to say does put into perspective some of the situations that we share with your child.

Do not feel that any problem is too small and certainly do not let anything become a crisis on your part before letting us know. Please make a point of contacting or calling into the Boarding House whenever you are in Cairns.

Do not hesitate to contact the House Parent or Heads of Boarding at any time during the year if you have any concerns or questions about Boarding Life or information that you think may be helpful.

Further information pertaining to our boarding community can be viewed via the Boarding page on the Peace Lutheran College web site or via our Boarding newsletter.

Lawrence Kirkwood

girlsboarding@plc.qld.edu.au

girlsboarding@plc.qld.edu.au

Office Phone: +61 7 4039 9067

Mobile: +61 428 601 860

Email: lkirkwood@plc.qld.edu.au

FRIEDEN HOUSE Email: boysboarding@plc.qld.edu.au

Mobile: +61 419 641 725

HEIWA HOUSE Email: boysboarding@plc.qld.edu.au

Mobile: +61 419 641 725

COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR CHILD

Communication is one of the most important issues for both boarding students and parents. We have included some ideas and suggestions for making communication easy with your child.

IN CASES OF EMERGENCY

Contact can be made with your child through the individual house numbers or their House Parent. If it is during school time, contact could be made through the school’s main reception who can be contacted either by email: admin@plc.qld.edu.au or by phone on +61 7 4039 9000.

GENERAL COMMUNICATION

Prior to commencing in the Boarding Community, it has been suggested that parents should discuss with their child when the best times would be for them to call each other. As the boarders live in quite a structured environment there are certain times that are great for a chat and others that don’t quite suit. The times that we recommend are between 3.00pm and 3.45pm and from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.

Generally, mornings are very busy with the students having to wake up, get to breakfast, have a shower (hopefully brush their hair and teeth), clean their room and pack their bags ready for their day at school so this also might not be the most conducive time for you to pry out all the information you want from them.

Please also don’t be worried if your child doesn’t call you, this generally means that they have settled well and are enjoying their time. You are allowed though to ring your House Parent to ask them to give your child the hint that it might be time to ring home because Mum, Dad, Nanna, and Pop miss them.

The best methods we have found to communicate with your child are by:

✔ Mobile Phones

Mobile phones are permitted; however, a ‘Mobile Phone Agreement’ must be completed before use and returned to the Boarding Head of Year or the House Parent. Mobile phones will be collected at bedtime each night and kept in the office.

Please be mindful of the amount of data that you provide your child with as we do not have the technology available to monitor your child’s internet use whilst using their own data network.

Mobile phones can also be used as a tether or ‘hotspot’ (create an internet connection), for your child’s laptop. This will allow them to connect to the internet without using our network, as the computer is now no longer on our network, we are unable to monitor how the computer is being used.

Mobile phones will not be permitted to be used in the Dining Room during Breakfast and dinner nor are they allowed to be taken on any interschool recreation activity.

✔ Skype/Zoom

As every child has access to their own personal computer some families use Skype/Zoom as an effective medium for communicating with each other. Skype/Zoom is quite personal as both parties are able to view each other while talking. The other benefit of Skype/Zoom is that it is relatively economical due to it being streamed across the internet.

WHATSAPP and WEAPP

There are many Apps available on either the iPhone or Android platforms that can now be used through a data network (Wi-Fi and internet) to communicate with your child. Whatsapp and Weapp are two that are being used throughout the world because as well as messaging and face time calls you can also use them for normal phone calls.

Due to the nature of these Apps using your local area Wi-Fi networks (your internet) there are no call costs involved, meaning, you can talk for as long as you like and not have to worry about the bill at the end of the month.

✔ Email

Increasingly students are relying on email for ready communication. Students have ready access to email facilities, but again the use of email is limited to the same conditions as phones. All houses are networked, and it is therefore possible to access the internet from the Boarding House

✔ Letters and Postcards

Letters are an excellent method of communication and most boarding students look forward to receiving mail in the afternoons (and are disappointed if they don’t get any). Although a letter is not as immediate as a phone call, it has an advantage in that it can be very well thought out and can be re-read days, weeks and years later. In the settling in stage for new boarding students, letters can be much more helpful than phone calls which can make some feel homesick. Please encourage your child to write home as often as possible. Some stamped and addressed envelopes sent with your child may be helpful for letter writing activities.

When mail is addressed to a boarder, it should be addressed as in the following example:

IMA BOARDER

C/- Boarding Community

Milyn House

Peace Lutheran College

PO Box 72F

FRESHWATER QLD 4870

PS – A postcard can be even more effective!!

THE BOARDING NEWSLETTER

The boarding newsletter is a means by which the Boarding Community tries to keep everyone up to date with what is happening for the students while they are here with us. The main purpose of the newsletter is to help you try to avoid the short grunts of “yes” or “no” answers when you’re talking with your child. It will hopefully arm you with ‘topics of conversation’, that you can use, to stimulate your ‘chat’.

We also use the newsletter as a place for you to find out other information regarding Boarding Life. It contains the calendar, weekly menus, a link to the sports pages and even a ‘forms section’. Here you can find all sorts of useful forms that you will need for permissions and policies, useful forms for mouthguards and name tapes, and travel forms.

The newsletter can be accessed via the Boarding pages on the Peace Lutheran College Website.

END OF YEAR BOARDING REPORT

At the conclusion of each year your child will receive a Boarding Report. This report is designed to provide you with an overview as to how your child has performed in boarding over the previous year.

In Year 12 the students receive a reference from their Boarding Head of Year instead of the report.

UNIFORM AND CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS

All school uniform items, except footwear, are available from Uniform Link; 5 MacDougal Street, Manunda QLD, 4870. Fitting out a boarder takes about an hour so it would be a good idea to phone ahead and book a time.

BOYS STUDENTS UNIFORM

✔ 7 x Blue shirts (Yrs 7 to 9)

✔ 7 x White shirts (Yrs 10 to 12)

✔ 3 x Grey trousers (Seniors, optional)

✔ 3 x navy shorts

✔ 6 x prs navy socks (above ankle)

✔ 1 x Black leather lace-up formal shoes (not boots, joggers, skate shoes, etc)

✔ 1 x PLC track suit jacket

✔ 1 x School tie (Yrs 10 to 12, optional T1 & T4)

✔ 1 x Black belt

✔ 1 x College hat

GIRLS UNIFORM

✔ 7 x Check shirts (Yrs 7 to 9)

✔ 7 x White blouse (Yrs 10 to 12)

✔ 3 x Blue skirts (Yrs 7 to 9)

✔ 3 x Check skirts (Yrs 10 to 12)

✔ 6 x prs White socks (above ankle)

✔ 1 x Black leather lace-up formal shoes (not boots, joggers, skate shoes, etc)

✔ 1 x PLC track suit Jacket

✔ 1 x School tie (Yrs 10 to 12)

✔ 1 x College hat

Phone: +61 7 4032 4918,

Website: www.uniformlink.com.au

Email: sales@uniformlink.com.au

The following lists are a guide to your uniform requirements. The Uniform Link staff will be able to assist you further with your compulsory items of clothing.

SPORTS

✔ 3 x Blue shorts

✔ 4 x Polo shirt in House colour

✔ 6 x White ankle socks

✔ 1 x Sport shoes, protective and supportive for sport (non-marking sole)

✔ 1 x Peace Lutheran College bucket hat

ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR BOARDING STUDENTS

✔ 8 x under clothing ✔ 2 x thongs or sandals

✔ Several sets of casual clothes (shorts, jeans, shirts and footwear are useful for recreation purposes and some good clothes for more formal occasions e.g.: socials, dinners, worship, days out etc.)

✔ 3 x pyjamas ✔ 2 x swim wear ✔ Clothes hangers

✔ 1 x shoe polishing kit ✔ 1 x hairbrush and/or comb

✔ 1 x toothbrush ✔ 3 x towels (1 for swimming)

✔ 1 pair casual shoes for good wear (not joggers)

✔ 2 x small laundry bags ✔ 1 large laundry bag

✔ 2 x sets of sheets (single size) and 2 pillowcases (also marked with name)

✔ 1 x doona and doona cover (also marked with name)

✔ 1 x pillow and pillow protector (also marked with name)

LAUNDRY AND CLOTHING

On looking at the uniform list for boarding students, parents may think there is an inordinate amount of clothing required. Let us describe briefly the laundry cycle and why certain amounts of clothing are necessary. Firstly, all our laundry is done on the school premises – a huge undertaking in itself.

Dirty school clothes are placed into the laundry on an allocated morning where they will be washed and dried. The clothing is ironed, hung or sorted and then placed in the boarder’s pigeonhole by the laundry staff ready for collection after school. The students are responsible for washing, ironing and sorting their own personal clothes.

We find six things which are essential to the streamlining of the huge laundry task:

1. Boarding students must have every item of clothing marked with your childs FULL NAME (e.g. James Robertson) and black letters on white background. We suggest name tags that have the student’s name clearly on them are ordered through Cash’s School Name Tapes http://www.nametapes.com.au

2. Name tags should be used to mark clothing rather than laundry markers because the writing tends to fade. Name tags should be sewn in prominent positions. Socks need name tags sewn on the upper part – not the foot. Do not sew name tags on trade labels as they can easily be removed. On items of greater value, it may be wise to put a name tag in a hidden position as well. It would be appreciated if a number of spare nam e tags are left with your child so that they may be sewn onto any new clothing purchased during term time.

3. Socks and underwear are laundered in special net bags to aid in the huge task of sorting. Each boarder has two bags. Only underwear and socks are to be placed into these bags. These can be purchased from the uniform shop.

4. Special arrangements can be made for specific items of clothing which cannot be subject to industrial washing and drying. These details should be obtained from the laundry staff. Each House has its own washing machines and dryers and students are encouraged to use them.

5. Please remember that any clothing purchased during term will also need to be named.

6. A spare set of name tags MUST be left with the House Parent.

LOST PROPERTY

Every year the boarding community is left with an incredible amount of lost property, especially clothing, the majority of which is unnamed. We have found in the past that lost property accumulates through poor personal organisation on the part of some boarding students. This emphasises the need for all clothing to be named.

BED LINEN

We find, as a boarding community, the diversity of individual needs concerning bedding very difficult to cater for. Therefore, each boarder is required to provide their own named single bed sheets for Years 7, 8 and 9, blankets or doona and pillow. Boarding students are expected to use both a top and bottom sheet and pillowslip for hygiene reasons and these should be washed each week. Mattress protectors are provided.

DRY CLEANING

If required this can be organised by the House Parent.

DAILY ROUTINES

YEARS 7 TO 9

TECHNOLOGY POLICY

Students are allowed to have technology, as long as they follow the guidelines.

✔ They follow the routine outlined within the ‘Student Technology Availability’ section of this handbook.

✔ It is the student’s responsibility to hand in their technology at the appropriate time.

✔ The term technology refers to any device that could provide the students with communication/ entertainment in a digital format. i.e. laptop, phone, ipad/smart pad, gaming consoles, etc

✔ Students will lose the privilege of having their technology in the case where there is an abuse of this policy (not handing in their technology, having more than one phone etc.)

✔ A music device that ‘simply’ plays music (through the use of headphones) is acceptable as these can assist students with homesickness, sleeping at night. It must be a wifi device only and not have the capabilities to connect to 3G/4G or 5G networks.

If technology is used properly there are some great advantages. First of all, it will be easier for you and your child to keep in touch. Secondly, it can improve your child’s safety (when on leave etc.), as we can always contact them and they can always contact us. There are also potential dangers for e.g., excessive use; boarding staff cannot monitor calls, data use and theft. If you are willing to take responsibility for these risks, we will allow your child to have a mobile phone.

To control your child’s phone use, we strongly advise:

✔ To use a pre-paid phone, or have a plan with a limited amount of calls/data.

✔ Make your child responsible for part of the expense of the device.

✔ Get a specification of their bill so you can see a) how many calls, b) how long, c) at what time, d) what number has been called and e) amount of data used. Even free calls and free text messages appear on this specification.

✔ Have a chat with your child about the potential danger of theft. (Don’t leave devices unattended).

It is very important to make clear arrangements with your child about all the issues, cost and responsibilities that come with having technology in boarding.

Please ensure that you fill out the Equipment register correctly, as the correct details will help to either locate a missing phone, or allow boarding staff to permanently block a stolen phone that cannot be located.

Please contact your House Parent or the Heads of Boarding if you have any questions or would like to discuss this matter further.

The opposite is aimed to provide a brief overview of the times in which students have access to their mobile and laptop devices within the Peace Lutheran College Boarding Community. As per our transitional philosophy, the students’ access to devices are regulated during the early years. However, as they progress through the year groups, they are provided with extra opportunities to demonstrate responsible technology use.

CATERING

Peace Lutheran College contracts its own catering staff to provide all meals for the College.

Outside of school hours the students eat all their meals in the dining hall. During school time the students receive their morning tea and lunch, which is prepared in the dining hall.

Dining is generally ‘alfresco style’, meaning that the students may enter the dining hall at any time, select their meals from the servery and sit where they like. There is no set time that the students have to remain within the dining hall but our staff do monitor this and at times will request the students stay seated for a certain period of time.

The evening meal usually consists of two protein options, a vegetarian option and a choice of several different types of vegetables and salads. Of course, dessert is also available after every meal. Our staff are also on the lookout for those students who sometimes forget to eat their ‘greens’.

Fresh fruit is always available within the dining hall, canteen and residences and is replaced regularly.

The weekly menus are available to view within the Boarding Newsletter found on the College website.

FORMAL DINING OPPORTUNITIES

Throughout the year we also expose the students to different forms of meal settings. This can be in the form of sit-down meal where the children will serve themselves table by table or on some occasions we also ask the catering staff to wait on them. The Boarding House Parents also make use of the many cafes and restaurants within the area by taking the students out for breakfast and/or dinner. Through these opportunities we are also teaching and coaching the students on the importance of good meal etiquette and how to act when in more formalised meal environments.

DINING HALL MEAL TIMES

WEEKDAY

Breakfast 7.15am (cooked options from 7.45am) until 8.15am

Dinner Time 5.45pm to 6.15pm Year 7 to 9s 6.15pm to 6:45pm Year 10 to 12s

Supper After Prep

WEEKENDS

Breakfast

Saturday 8.30am until 9.30am (cooked options from 8.45am)

Sunday 8.30am until 9.30am (great Peace Lutheran fry up!!)

Lunch Time Saturday 12.00pm to 2.00pm Sunday 12.30pm to 1.30pm

Dinner Time 5.30pm to 6.30pm

Supper After Prep

TAFE AND SCHOOL EXCURSIONS

Take away lunches can be made available to all Boarding students who are required to be away from the school for the day.

This may include excursions, TAFE, work placement or any other school related activity. The students can organise this themselves or through talking to their House Parent or Catering staff.

HEALTH

The Health Centre provides acute care for illness or injuries to boarding students and day students, with an increased focus on health education, injury prevention and providing pastoral care.

THE HEALTH CENTRE OPENING TIMES

Monday to Friday 08:00am – 3:00pm

MEDICAL COSTS AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

When a boarder consults a doctor, or attends a medical appointment, we will always try and contact you to discuss the costs for the treatment. The expenses are generally charged to a student's account but can be paid directly to the provider if required.

Any medication ordered by the doctor and supplied by the pharmacy will be charged to student’s school account via the Health Centre.

MEDICAL COSTS INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTS

When a boarder attends a medical appointment, the account is sent to the Health Centre where it is processed and sent to Bupa or to the family should they have their own health insurance provider. The full amount of the account is charged to the student's account and once the rebate is received back from the Private Health Fund provider this is credited back to the student's account.

Any medication ordered by the doctor and supplied by the pharmacy will be charged to the student’s account.

MEDICAL FORMS

Please return medical forms with enrolment forms, as it is very important we receive this information early in order to check and note any problems or special requests regarding your child.

VACCINATIONS

Please ensure your child has had all vaccinations and make sure booster doses are up to date. You can check your child’s registration records through AIR (Australian

Immunisation Register). Recent information from the Community and Child Health Department advises Sabin (Polio) and Tetanus boosters should be updated every 10 years, following the 5-year-old pre-school vaccinations. Combined vaccinations (Measles/Mumps/ Rubella) can also be given at an early age as well as a second one at age 15. Hepatitis ‘A’ vaccinations are now available. Hepatitis ‘B’ vaccinations should be given to every child at an early age. There is no cure – but prevention is possible. The risk of the spread of Hepatitis ‘B’ in our homes and schools is very real. The Health Centre also offers annual influenza vaccinations to all our boarders.

MEDICATION

Health Centre staff support all students who require over the counter or prescription medication while in residence. As some medications interact adversely we require parents to advise us of any medication that their child is taking.

All medication is administered under the supervision of the Health Centre staff whilst the Health Centre is open. This enables the Health Centre staff to monitor the effectiveness of the medication.

Outside of Health Centre hours, medication will be administered by the boarding staff on duty, from a pack filled by a pharmacist with the student’s name, medication, dose and time to be given clearly labelled. This process enhances our duty of care, prevents handling of the medication by staff and ensures that the correct medication is being dispensed at the appropriate time.

No medication is to be self-administered by any boarders, unless under direction from the College Nurse and/or Heads of Boarding, no medication is to be kept by boarders. Asthma medication must be kept by the student for self-medication after discussion with the College Nurse/House Parent.

ADRENALINE AUTO INJECTORS (EPIPENS)

Parents of students with anaphylaxis must provide 2 anaphylaxis kits containing an EpiPen, antihistamine medication and an Action Plan. One kit is kept in the boarding house office and the other is kept by the student and taken to school each day.

ACCIDENTS

On the sports field, in the residences, or elsewhere on campus should be reported to the Health Centre staff on duty and treatment for all such accidents must be attended to by the Health Centre staff who will then contact the school doctor if necessary.

DOCTORS CLINIC

The doctor's clinic is held every Thursday morning and is available for students who are feeling generally unwell or have any medical issues or concerns that they feel they need to discuss with a doctor. The clinic is attended to by our regular doctor and a Registered Nurse. The College Nurse will advise parents if their child attends the doctor's clinic.

MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS/TRANSPORT

All appointments must be organised through the Health Centre as they will also coordinate the transport arrangements.

Please contact the Health Centre by email: nurse@plc.qld.edu.au or call +61 7 4039 0252,

and provide them with as much notice as possible. In an emergency situation, an ambulance will be called immediately.

If your child needs to see a physiotherapist, dentist, orthodontist, chiropractor etc., these appointments should be made with practioners who are located within the suburbs close to the College (within 15kms). Appointments made outside of this area may result in us having to ‘charge’ you for the transport of your child to and from the appointment.

GENERAL MEDICAL

Parents are encouraged to call in and introduce themselves to the Health Centre team. The nursing staff are more than happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have while your child is in the Boarding Community.

If you have any concerns or wish to update us about your child’s health please feel free to call in or contact us in the Health Centre on +61 7 4039 0252.

WELLBEING

The aim of our wellbeing program is to transition our students into learning to live within a large community and then as the years progress, shift their focus to becoming a more independent person who once leaving the structured lifestyle of the boarding community will have the ability to manage themselves.

Our program draws upon the five aspects of health (physical, social, spiritual, emotional and intellectual) as a basis for its formation and the activities and opportunities that we provide are also aligned with the developmental pathways of the students.

Recreation and wellbeing is all about our students adjusting from their academic day-to-day schooling to coming home and achieving a sense of balance between study life and personal life.

Some key benefits of providing your child with this healthy study-life balance include:

✔ Reduced stress levels at school and within the boarding community

✔ Greater focus and concentration when needed during the day in class or on the weekends when studying

✔ Higher levels of satisfaction in regards to their academic program

✔ The opportunity to participate more fully in their social life amongst their peers, whether at social events organised through the recreational program or ‘hanging out’ with mates around the residence

✔ More time to pursue personal goals and hobbies

✔ Improved health

Balancing the demands of a boarding student is not an easy thing to do, so here are a few ideas to help them assess their priorities and strike a good study-life balance:

✔ Getting your child to set goals around what they value highly while at Peace Lutheran College

✔ Managing their time effectively review academic subject deadlines, prioritise socialy and success factors

✔ Create a boundary between balancing study and personal down time where possible

✔ Build resilience and have a positive attitude

✔ Avoid stress, mental exhaustion and burnout fatigue affects your ability to study productively

✔ Maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your child by;

✔ Looking after themselves

✔ Eating well

✔ Sleeping well

✔ Exercising

✔ Pursue an activity that the enjoy

✔ Encourage them to find a good support system learn to ask for help, we all need a little help sometimes

✔ Enjoy their academic learning.

SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS WITHIN BOARDING LIFE

Some boarding students experience problems with social adjustment. Teenagers quite often set up active social patterns and enjoy a certain amount of independence. Due to the nature of the boarding community, and the direct responsibility of the staff to the parents and boarding students and the sheer size of our “family” some boarding students, at times, find some of the day-to-day workings a bit restrictive.

To help them cope with this new lifestyle, it would be beneficial to discuss with them some of the differences that might be experienced. If you want more background information please do not hesitate to phone Heads of Boarding or House Parent with your queries. It may be of benefit to encourage your child to make the contact if he is indeed worried about any aspect.

Success in this matter lies in the understanding that a large community, such as ours, is in some respects reasonably inflexible. It is essential that a boarder

arrives at an understanding of what is acceptable and what is not and why these things are so. A new boarder has to quickly realise that some social patterns will not fit the new situation and that they must take steps to adjust their behaviour accordingly rather than try to change the community. Our rules and expectations have been put in place with the students’ best interests and security in mind.

HOMESICKNESS

It is perfectly normal for children living in completely new surroundings to feel strange and homesick. Often homesickness reflects a very positive relationship with family and friends and the home environment. We have included a number of observations on this problem and feel that our suggestions may help your child to overcome this very real difficulty as quickly as possible.

1. We believe it is important for them to realise that homesickness is perfectly normal and that they are likely to feel homesick from time to time, and that it is something that they should not hide from, but face up to and try and talk about.

2. It is important for you, as parents, to emphasise the need for complete involvement in and out of the classroom. The person who mopes around after school and misses classes because they feel sorry for themselves only compounds an already difficult problem. Involvement in sport, games, music and other activities is essential and should be encouraged whenever possible.

3. It is important for you to realise that you will hear of, or experience, the worst of your child’s homesickness. Boarding students will tend to write or ring when they are feeling at their lowest. They may also tend to exaggerate the worst features of what they are experiencing in order to get your attention.

4. Poor grades and difficulty with work are often closely related to homesickness in the early stages.

5. A recurrence of the problem is quite common after the first few weekends out or term vacations. However, it is usually overcome very quickly on returning to school. Further to this, too many day outings over the first few weekends can cause great difficulty for your child making the break from home. We encourage you to let your child experience as much as possible the normal activities of the boarding house, particularly during weekends, and therefore, suggest that you do

not prolong the break by taking them out too often during ‘settling in’ times.

6. Please encourage your child to see the House Parent, Heads of Boarding or other House staff, the nurse, teachers or the school wellfare officer if the problem seems to be reaching intolerable levels. Often discussing the problem with someone not directly involved is of great assistance.

We do not wish to alarm you in any way, but purely make you aware of a very common and usually shortterm problem. It is also our aim to help you and your child cope with the difficult settling in period. It is best to deal with any problems that may arise in the early stages, as this is advantageous for all concerned. Understanding, patience and firmness would appear to be the most important qualities necessary for quick and relatively smooth adjustment to the new environment. Above all, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s House Parent or Heads of Boarding, if you wish to discuss the problem.

As well as your child experiencing homesickness, it is not uncommon for you, as parents, to also feel “homesick for your child”. The following are a few observations that might help you cope with your own sense of loss.

1. The sense of loss may not be as obvious for you as it is for your child because your daily routine continues. Acknowledging the sense of loss for you is just as important.

2. When a child goes to boarding school there is a change in the structure of parenting because the daily dependence of the child is no longer present. Your child will quickly establish an increasing level of independence and often parents are caught unawares by this sudden move of their child from childhood towards the adult world. If your child is making this transition well it is a sign that, as parents, you have prepared them well for adulthood.

3. Despite planning for many years for your child to attend a boarding school, the reality comes suddenly – one day they are at home and the next they’re not. Do not underestimate the effect it may have on you, and feel free to contact your child’s House Parent or Heads of Boarding about your own concerns as well as those of your child

WELLBEING

BULLYING

The Peace Lutheran College community does not tolerate bullying or harassment in any form.

Bullying is any behaviour intended to hurt, injure, threaten or frighten another person. Bullying can be physical (e.g. pushing, stealing), verbal (teasing, threatening, putting down), written (e.g. abusive email) or social/psychological (e.g. ignoring, excluding). Bullying has negative consequences for all concerned and is therefore taken very seriously.

Should students experience bullying (either directly or as a bystander), they are expected to tell another member of the boarding community so it can be resolved efficiently.

FAMILY ISSUES

These do occur and boarding staff need to be informed immediately. This enables staff to be prepared and to provide the best possible care for your child.

DEATH OF A FAMILY MEMBER/FRIEND AND/OR COMMUNITY TRAGEDY

In the unfortunate event that the above may occur it is imperative that contact is made as quickly as possible with the boarding staff (preferably either with your child’s House Parent or Heads of Boarding) to discuss the best strategies for informing the child/ren involved. We do not recommend or encourage boarders being informed about such events over the telephone or via social media, particularly if there is no one there to support them.

SUPPORT STAFF & SERVICES

As well as the Boarding and Health Centre staff, students have access to our College Pastor and Student Welfare Officer. Their roles are to support students with their mental wellbeing and provide links to counselling services for the students should they require it.

Due to the number of students at the College the major purpose for these staff is to identify the level of care a student might require and develop plans to

assist those students. This may mean that students are referred on to outside services that support us here at the College. If this is the case then the external providers may charge a service fee.

COLLEGE PASTOR

The College Pastor is available for the spiritual support of boarding students at the college. Devotions and church services are offered regularly on site for boarders to attend. Also, in times of personal need, students may contact the Pastor for advice, support and encouragement.

The Pastor is directly accessible to students during the day and through the boarding staff at night and on weekends. Parents who have particular concerns about their children can discuss these with the Pastor at any time.

STUDENT WELFARE OFFICER

The role of the Student Welfare Officer is to provide support, assessment and advice in relation to student wellbeing, across the College from Prep – Year 12, including our boarding school. This also includes working alongside other support staff to provide pastoral care and support for staff and parents of the college community. Upon ascertaining the level of support required for a student in collaboration with the relevant Head of School/Boarding and Principal, part of the role is to connect students and parents to external agencies and providers who can offer expert advice to assist students as they overcome emotional and personal struggles. The Student Welfare Officer may also help deal with matters of child protection and students / families ‘at risk’.

It should be clarified that the role is not as a ‘School Counsellor’ and that as a College, we are unable to provide ongoing counselling support. The Student Welfare Officer may provide support to students over a designated period of time, however if a student requires ongoing and extensive support, the Student Welfare Officer will liaise with external agencies for further assistance as necessary.

Meeting with the Student Welfare Officer is via appointment or in emergency situations as the need arises.

INDIGENOUS PROGRAM

Since its inception Peace Lutheran College has been supporting our indigenous communities by providing students with educational opportunities here at the College. Students come from Cape York and Torres Strait Islands and are a vital and integral part of our school and boarding community. The students are supported at the College by our Indigenous Education Coordinator.

INDIGENOUS EDUCATION COORDINATOR

The role and responsibilities of the Indigenous Education Coordinator (IEC) is primarily one of communication and liaison between school, boarding, families, community and local Indigenous people and agencies to increase student engagement and outcomes for Indigenous students.

The position has a strong cultural focus that extends to advice and action on broad issues, including the enrichment of cultural awareness within the schools, develop, promote and maintain communication networks between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, their parents or guardians, the community and the school. The IEC plays a key role in providing knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, languages and cultures within the College. This understanding promotes respect and harmony. They conduct their role in collaboration with school staff and school principal.

The IEC supports students in their social, emotional and cultural wellbeing while reaching their full potential in development of not only their physical wellbeing but also their educational and faith journey.

The IEC also;

✔ Facilitates and maintains communication between school, boarding, home and community to increase student engagement and outcomes;

✔ Supports Indigenous parents in our community through regular contact, and liaison;

✔ Develops networks of agencies which can assist with meeting the holistic needs of Indigenous learners (education, health, justice, family support etc). Be a reference point for students and their families wishing to access these services;

✔ Provide support and advice to teachers to enhance student engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students;

✔ Provide assistance in planning and fulfilling opportunities to enrich cultural awareness.

✔ Assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to engage in learning and assessment as directed by the classroom teacher * Assist with QATSIF scholarship applications and

✔ Book and coordinate all ABSTUDY travel.

LEAVE ARRANGEMENTS AND POLICIES

All leave from the Boarding Community is permitted by the House Parent, or Heads of Boarding in the context of TRUST, that boarding students go to the places and hosts they have arranged to go to. It is impossible for boarding staff to follow every boarder and ring every host family to check that boarding students are doing the right thing.

It must be emphasised, however, that even if a leave request by a student is in accordance with the contact as set down within the leave arrangement, staff still reserve the right to permit or deny leave at their discretion.

Overnight leave on weekends is permitted for boarding students when going into a family situation where there is parental supervision. The school does not allow boarding students to take overnight leave with young hosts, and this may include some brothers and sisters. This policy does not call into question the integrity or responsibility of specific young hosts but acknowledges that young people and the situations, in which they live, may not be suitable overnight host places for boarding students. All leave is subject to students not being required for school activities.

If a boarding student stays with ANY PERSON who is not an authorised host, or who has not been approved by the House Parent or Heads of Boarding, or signs out to go to one place and goes somewhere else, this is seen as a severe breach of this trust and is treated as a serious disciplinary situation.

IF A STUDENT WHO IS ON LEAVE RETURNS TO THE BOARDING HOUSE, THEY ARE THEN THE SCHOOL’S RESPONSIBILITY AND THEY WILL NEED TO APPLY TO LEAVE THE HOUSE AGAIN.

Under no circumstances can a student on leave return to the House after 10.00pm on any night without having made prior arrangements with the House Parent or Heads of Boarding. If a student breaches this rule it is seen as a severe breach of trust and is treated as a serious disciplinary situation.

HOSTS (For Parents)

Parents will be required to complete a ‘Host List’ which outlines the people with whom you will allow your child to visit or stay with while on leave. The school does not permit overnight leave with young hosts. Parental supervision and a family environment is expected for all weekend leave.

Please ensure that you know or have had contact with the people you put on your child’s host list and that they have signed the appropriate form and are comfortable with the notion that they may be supervising your child for the time in which they are signed out from the boarding house. This contract will be supervised by the House Parent or Heads of Boarding and can only be changed by written request from parents. Discussion of who is and who is not a suitable host while your child is at Peace Lutheran college would be helpful.

Generally, if a host is emailed in by a parent before 3.00pm Monday to Friday, we can have them uploaded into REACH by 5pm that night.

Details of the host must be emailed to the House Parent.

REACH: ONLINE LEAVE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

https://peace.reachboarding.com.au

An online Leave Management System called REACH manages all leave at Peace Lutheran College. All support documentation can be located within the ‘Help’ section on the website and a comprehensive induction of the system will be conducted at orientation.

It is our expectation that students will always sign out of the House, no matter where they are going, and sign back in when they return.

LEAVE TYPES CATEGORY A

Off campus leave that requires approval from either a Parent/Guardian or house parent (HP).

Overnight Leave

This is leave that requires a student to stay overnight away from the Boarding House either during the week or on the weekend. The Parent/Guardian must first approve the leave before being further approved by the house parent. Students need to return by 5.30pm on Sunday night.

This type of leave is to be submitted by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the weekend.

Day Leave

This is a period of leave away from the boarding house that does not occur overnight.

For students in Years 7 to 12, this leave needs to be approved by a parent/guardian and should be either with them or an approved host. This leave also needs approval by the house parent. All students need to return by 5.30pm.

This type of leave is to be submitted by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the weekend.

Community Sport

This type of leave is for students to complete if they wish to participate in community sport. It is available to all students. This leave must first be approved by Parents or Guardians and then by the house parent.

This type of leave is to be submitted by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the weekend.

Employment

This type of leave is for students to complete if they wish to participate in casual employment. It is available to students in Years 11 and 12. This leave must first be approved by Parents or Guardians and then by the house parent/head of boarding.

This type of leave is to be submitted by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the weekend.

Holiday Travel Arrangements

This leave is designed for you to outline your child’s travel arrangements at the beginning and end of term. Using this type of leave for the holidays simply helps us with our organisation.

This type of leave is to be submitted at least three weeks before the holiday break.

Driving Request

This type of leave is for the instances where you might need to get to the bank, post office, shop etc that is for an immediate requirement or for something that isn’t often open/available on the weekend. This type of leave is to be approved by the house parent/head of boarding.

This type of leave is to be submitted on the evening prior to the request being required.

Senior Day Leave (1.5 to 5 hours)

This is a period of leave from the boarding house that does not occur overnight but is between 1.5 hours and 5 hours long. Students in Years 10 to 12 need approval from their house parent. All students need to return by 5.30pm. This type of leave is to be submitted by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the weekend.

School Approved

This type of leave considers any activities that are approved by either the day or boarding schools.

Boarding Supervisor

This type of leave considers people who are the Parent/ Guardian or are on a child’s host list and arrive at the House without prior notification to take the child out for a period of time. A leave form must be created and approved by the head of boarding on duty.

CATEGORY B

Off campus leave that does not need the approval of either a Parent/Guardian or house parent.

Redlynch Leave

This type of Leave allows the students to go to the Redlynch shops. It is for a period of 1.5 hours for students in Years 10 to 12. Year 7 to 9 students may have 1 hour leave to Redlynch (this is at the discretion of the Boarding Head of Year). The Boarding Supervisor on duty can approve this.

The relevant house parent head of boarding may place extra conditions on this type of leave depending on age and other factors that the house parent may be aware of.

Recreation

This type of Leave considers those students who are on recreation. This would have been a pre-organised activity that the students would have signed up for prior to the weekend.

CATEGORY C

On campus leave that does not need the approval of either a Parent/Guardian or house parent.

On Campus Leave

This type of leave allows the students to go anywhere on the school campus.

Locations consider different areas within the school, e.g. school, Health Centre, Library, MPC, ovals, another House, etc. This leave is for 1.5 hours; however, the students can check straight back out again once they have seen the Boarding Supervisor on duty. There are sign in stations in each of the Boarding Houses as well as the Boarders Recreation Centre and dining hall.

HOLIDAYS

Boarding students are not permitted to leave for holidays earlier than the stipulated time except when permission has been granted by the Director of Secondary or Heads of Boarding. When returning to school after the holidays boarding students are expected to be in at 5.30pm on the day prior to the beginning of the school term. If travel arrangements do not allow this, then it is necessary to seek, in writing, the permission of the Director of Secondary or Heads of Boarding for approval of variations. Boarding students are expected to travel from home directly back to the boarding house.

The College views very dimly any request for early departure from, or late return to, the boarding community (i.e.leaving before the appointed time on the day classes finish or returning after 5.30pm on the day before classes commence).

If there are exceptional circumstances, a request should be addressed in writing to the Director of Secondary, Heads of Boarding or House Parent in plenty of time to be fully discussed by the parties involved. If tests are missed due to early departure, then it is usually not possible to reschedule these tests for another time.

The policy guidelines for end of term arrangements are: Early departure is only permitted in extreme circumstances, for example:

a) Non-frequency of travel to more remote areas,

b) Personal one-off situation (emotional instability, family crisis, or highly significant event).

In the case of travel arrangements, genuine need must be established and it should always be with a regular host. Relevant factors for consideration may include age of the boarding student, time of travel, difficulty with luggage, complexity of the situation and the boarder’s ability to cope. Just like any weekend leave, any arrangements should be confirmed by parents in the week prior to holidays with the House Parent, Director

of Secondary or the Heads of Boarding

All holiday and long weekend travel arrangements need to be entered within the online Leave Management System (REACH) as ‘Holiday Travel Arrangements’ with the details of the departure and arrival times clearly noted.

TRAVEL

All travel bookings are the responsibility of the parents and must be entered into REACH. Parents book students’ travel subsidy flights within Queensland. Subsidised travel forms can be obtained either from the ‘FORMS’ section on the Boarding Newsletter or by contacting the College reception. A completed copy of these must be forwarded to the school so they can be verified and submitted to the appropriate government department.

If you have any questions regarding your child’s travel or you need to clarify the arrangements, please contact your House Parent.

RETURN TIME FROM HOLIDAYS AND LONG WEEKENDS

The Houses will be open from 3.30pm on the day before school starts. Dinner will be provided at the end of long weekends and at the beginning of term from 5.30pm. If your child must return earlier because of transport arrangements, you must notify your House Parent or Heads of Boarding. These details should be emailed to them directly or the relevant House email.

IF YOUR CHILD DOES RETURN EARLY, THEY MUST STAY AT THE BOARDING HOUSE. PARENTS

MUST BE AWARE THAT THERE IS NO GUARANTEE OF SUPERVISION BEFORE 3:30 PM.

ORGANISED RECREATION FOR BOARDING STUDENTS

Our Boarding students are connected to a broad network within the Cairns area. This network provides a wide spectrum of activities that can involve specific year groups or multiple groups. These events get our students into some of the attractions Cairns has to offer and can provide them with a sense of belonging within our community and can break up that sense of being confined in the boarding environment over the weekend. It is also a great way for our students to interact with students from other schools in a social setting. Parents can access information about the coming term’s activities from either the college calendar within the REACH Lave Management System or the Boarding Newsletter.

How does the Recreation Process work?

• The recreation activities are listed in the Recreation Calendar a term in advance.

• Students can sign up for the recreation activity online through clicking on the activity they would like to attend.

• Sign up for any particular activity can occur at any time and registration for the event closes on the Thursday prior to the weekend that the activity is due to occur.

• If a student can no longer attend that recreation activity, they have until the Thursday afternoon to withdraw from the activity through the recreation calendar portal.

• For most of the activities we need to advise suppliers on Thursday of the number of students who are attending the activity on that weekend. If a student pulls out after Thursday, or is unable to attend for any reason, then unfortunately we will still need to charge for the event to cover our costs. If the College cancels the event, i.e. small numbers, then the student will not be charged.

• An activity may be cancelled due to weather conditions, low sign up numbers or if an incident occurs before or while at the recreation activity.

• All recreation charges are provided at no cost to the students accept for what has been outlined above.

We believe that there is every opportunity for all boarding students to become happily involved in the community.

COMMUNITY SPORT/INTERESTS

Boarding students have the opportunity to participate in community clubs and activities throughout the year. Generally, most of these opportunities exist through the joining of local sporting teams. Transport to and from training sessions and games is organised by a group of parents from each team and we believe, where possible, every child should try and involve themselves in at least one community-based activity.

EXPEDITIONS/CAMPS

During your child’s time at Peace Lutheran College they will be involved in a number of school camps. These include Outdoor Education Expeditions in Year 7, 8, 9 and Year 10 and there are also a number of music, art or sporting camps that become available depending on your child’s involvement in co-curricular activities.

SPORT

Sport can play an important part in a boarding student’s life. Every child is encouraged to participate in some form of organised activity to maintain physical fitness. From the range of activities there is generally something to suit everybody, from the teamwork of some of the more competitive games, to the enjoyment of participating in some of the boarding based recreational activities.

MUSIC AND OTHER GROUPS

The students at Peace Lutheran College have access to a state-of-the-art centre which has been designed specifically for music and drama. We would encourage all of our boarding students to become involved in the schools music program.

The music staff are very welcoming of the boarding students and are happy for them to pop in of an afternoon and use the practice rooms available.

ACADEMIC

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Often students coming from other schools, especially smaller schools, at first may find the academic program of a bigger school difficult or daunting. It helps if both you and your child have discussed, and agreed upon, appropriate expectations and goals before they commence their studies at the college.

STUDY (HOMEWORK)

Year 7 to 10 study is completed within classrooms, while the Year 11 and 12 students have the choice of either studying within their own private rooms or the House common rooms.

During homework students can get help from the Boarding House Assistants. Student's homework should be placed on Student Café by all teaching staff and boarding staff should direct students to show what homework they have been assigned each night. Parents can also check to see what homework their child has each night via the College’s Parent Portal. If students have not been given enough set work they will be expected to bring along a novel to read or to develop a review program, otherwise Boarding Assistants will be able to provide the students with extra work.

Study times are as follows:

• Year 7 to 9: 4.30pm to 5.30pm

• Year 10 to 12: 6.45pm to 8.30pm

For the above times to be effective all students need to be organised and exercise the necessary self-discipline and determination to complete all assigned homework, and in the case of senior secondary students, extra study and note-taking in preparation for future assessments. The establishment of good study habits and skills requires personal effort and a positive attitude. The boarding staff and others will aid the students in learning these habits and skills; however, the students must be motivated to succeed in reaching their potential in this most important area.

Students must:

✔ Be personally responsible for their efforts in study

✔ Conduct themselves in a manner which does not disturb others

✔ Follow established routines and expectations

✔ Limit movement to an absolute minimum

✔ Seek assistance from staff and academic tutors when required

LAPTOPS

Laptops are a necessary part of modern education and their appropriate use is encouraged. They may be used for both academic and recreational purposes. These will be collected in each night before bedtime (Years 7 to 11).

CONTACTING YOUR CHILD’S TEACHERS

You should first contact your child’s Home Room teacher to discuss any concerns you may have. They are then able to contact other staff members for you and have them contact you directly. This will normally save a great deal of time.

If you wish to contact your child’s teachers, it is best to make contact through email. It is very hard to contact the academic staff by telephone as they are normally teaching. A message can be left through the receptionist for them to make contact.

Your child’s Home Room teacher will also arrange meetings with teachers if you are visiting Cairns and/ or if you have any concerns regarding your child’s academic progress. There will be the opportunity to meet mid-year to discuss your child’s progress. There is also the opportunity to meet with academic staff to discuss reports.

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT

From time to time students will make errors in judgment. The following gives a guide to the procedures in place to assist the students and to discipline them, if necessary. It should be noted that this is only a guide and that every case will be looked at individually and relevant personnel will be consulted before deciding the action to be implemented.

There are a number of different disciplinary actions that can be implemented within the boarding community.

• House duty/community service – perform duties within the boarding house/community.

• House grounding/gating (this means limiting leave from the House)

- Weekday – no day leave granted

- Weekend – no weekend leave granted

- May occur for more serious offences or an accumulation of many minor offences – parents to be informed immediately by the staff member implementing the gating.

• Student interview with Heads of Boarding.

• Student, parents and relevant staff interview with the Heads of Boarding.

• Boarding Community Probation (Behaviour Management Card) – implemented by the House Parent, in consultation with the Heads of Boarding and parents.

• Suspension from boarding community (Denied Residence) – student continues to attend classes but is not permitted to stay within the boarding community – implemented by the heads of boarding, in consultation with the House Parent, for serious breaches of boarding community rules. The Principal will be informed.

• Suspension from school and the Boarding community – student to be off the school premises implemented by the Director of Secondary or Heads of Boarding depending on the nature of the incident. The Principal is to be informed.

• Removal from the boarding community – a student can be, if deemed not suitable to continue living within the boarding community, removed from the boarding community, but may continue to attend the College as a non-boarding student.

• Expulsion – implemented by the Principal.

Again, this is a guide to the different procedures in place for students whose behaviour needs modifying. The level of action taken will depend on the seriousness of the offence and it is expected that parents will be included and informed of the process as it takes place.

Below is a table that shows the likely consequences of inappropriate actions. Level

MINOR Reprimand

SERIOUS Detention

Grounded

Gated

Denied Residence (Suspension)

TERMINAL Expulsion from Boarding

Picking students up for minor indiscretions.

Language, leaving rubbish around, negative staff interaction.

Gardening, cleaning, odd jobs etc. Continued repeated behaviour of the above.

Students are not allowed to go on leave. May attend boarding activities off College grounds (some exclusions may apply).

Students are not allowed to leave the College grounds except to attend church.

Students are not permitted to stay in the boarding house but can continue to attend school.

Students are removed from the boarding community

Continued repeated behaviour of the above, issues with leave, inappropriate staff interaction.

Serious incident or no change in attitude or behaviour.

Drugs, alcohol or continued inappropriate behaviour. Bullying – continued incidences.

Drugs, alcohol or continued inappropriate behaviour.

SERIOUS INCIDENTS

Because of the nature and ideals of our College and the concern for students in our care, we need to stress the unacceptability of the behaviour’s set out below:

• Non-acceptance, defiance of staff directions and/ or inappropriate interactions with a staff member by a student will not be tolerated. The seriousness of any of these incidences would give reason for the College to deny residence to the student.

• Harassment: All students have a right to feel safe in their environment and as such the College views any form of bullying or harassment seriously. A violation of this would give reason for the student to be suspended from the College.

• The possession or consumption of alcohol, or being under its influence, is forbidden to all students at all times. This regulation applies not only at the College but at all functions in any way connected with the College – students may not consume alcohol at all while they are boarding students at the college. Due to the serious nature of this matter, even for a first offence, the normal penalty will be suspension from the College, with the student actually returning home. The student may have to show a genuine willingness to partake in a rehabilitation program if they are to return to the College. A second offence may result in the parent or guardian being asked to remove the student from the College.

• The possession or use of any form of non-medical drug or hallucinogen is absolutely forbidden. Due to the serious nature of this matter, even for a first offence, the minimum penalty will be suspension from the College. For a second offence, or if the student is found to have sold or distributed any form of nonmedical drug or hallucinogen, the parent or guardian will be asked to remove the student from the College.

• The possession and/or use of any form of tobacco is absolutely forbidden and will incur penalties up to and including suspension from the College. The student will have to show a genuine willingness to partake in a rehabilitation program on their return to the College. Persistence of this behaviour after a warning may result in the parent or guardian being asked to remove the student from the College.

• No student ever leaves the College grounds without the appropriate permission. This is regarded as a very serious breach of trust as a student is effectively placing themselves in a position where the College cannot accept responsibility for them. They are deemed to be absent without leave.

A first offence may result in the student being suspended from the College. If a subsequent offence were to occur this may result in the parent or guardian being asked to remove the student from the College.

• Any theft by a student is considered a serious matter Even for a first offence the student may be suspended from the College. If a subsequent offence were to occur this may result in the parent or guardian being asked to remove the student from the College.

• Students are not to ride as passengers in cars driven by day students. Parents and guardians are obviously exempt from this rule. For a first offence, the student may be denied residence and for a second offence the parent or guardian may be asked to remove the student from the College.

• The College trusts that students do not move out of their room after 10.30pm. Any student caught engaging in any form of inappropriate behaviour between 10.30pm - 7.00am may result in their position within the boarding community being reviewed.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Boarding has two Boarding Captains, one boy and one girl who are the House Captains for the senior houses. We also have two other House Captains from the two junior houses. Each house has a student committee that works with their House Parent to implement changes that aim to improve boarding community and spirit. The role of these captains does carry some authority, but they should also be seen as caring people who can provide help in many ways. It is important that the role of

these captain’s is respected, and that they have the regard and cooperation of all members of the boarding community.

Peace Boarding has introduced the Boarders

Representative Committee (BRC). The BRC is made up of all House Captains and four to five other boarders. The BRC discusses matters of concern, talks to staff and helps organise boarding activities.

GENERAL INFORMATION

BOY/GIRL RELATIONSHIPS

As we are a co-educational boarding school we expect that girls and boys will socialise in a friendly manner. However, we strongly discourage and will not tolerate student socialising in a manner that inappropriate relationships are fostered or can develop.

The House Parents must approve the movement between boarding houses. Students are only allowed in their own House; the other boarding houses are out of bounds.

SPIRITUAL LIFE

The spiritual life of all our students is of utmost importance. Our staff, together with the College Pastor are only too happy to talk with students and/or their parents concerning any issue that may be of concern.

Students attend church on a fortnightly basis. It is compulsory for all students not on leave to attend. Once a month Sunday worship is held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cairns and once a month in the Peace Centre.

SECURITY

During the day the entire boarding area is out of bounds for all students. boarders are not allowed back to the boarding house without specific permission from the Heads of Boarding or House Parents. The boarding houses are locked from 8.15am onwards. Once school finishes (3.00pm) the buildings are open until later in the evening.

Students are not allowed to enter any of the other three boarding houses. Students are also not allowed to enter any other bedroom within their House. The unfortunate reality is that thefts sometimes occur and more often than not, when they do occur, this is within the House. It is most important, therefore, that everybody takes care to look after their own property. Security cameras are placed within the foyer areas of the boarding houses. Many students have a lock (and a chain) to lock their wardrobe and some students keep a lock-up box for items, which they want to keep secure. It is important to

lodge spare keys with the House Parent (don't lock them up in the wardrobe or box).

Students should not keep large sums of money around the boarding house - even in their lock-up box/wardrobe. If students have an unusually large amount for some particular purpose it should be left with the House Parent where it can be kept secure until it is needed. We strongly advise everyone to run a pocket money account with us, so the students never have to look after large amounts of money themselves.

It is most important that any theft is reported immediately. It is also particularly important that students are prepared to tell staff if they have reasonable suspicion that another student has stolen things. We all understand that people are reluctant to "dob". On the other hand, to say nothing is to condone theft.

It is important that all belongings are properly named. All clothing, sporting gear, shoes, books, phones, radios, everything you have, must have your name clearly marked on it (engraved where possible). When unnamed clothing goes missing it creates a great deal of work! For obvious reasons we do not allow students to wear each other’s clothing.

GENERAL DRESS STANDARDS

Students are expected to be dressed in a neat and tidy manner when they are out of their room. When attending the dining hall, they should wear a shirt with sleeves (no singlets) and footwear. For Chapel, the expectation is long trousers or neat jeans, a collared shirt and no sports gear, with dress shorts being acceptable in the summer and spring terms only. When leaving the campus, students must wear neat and tidy clothes, including footwear at all times.

PERSONAL HYGIENE

Personal hygiene must always be of a very high standard. Students are to shower each day and always straight after sport or evening recreation. Students should ensure their hair is washed regularly and all must use an antiperspirant deodorant and brush their teeth and hair each day.

CARE OF ROOM

Each student is responsible for the care, cleaning and reporting of maintenance for their room. All food kept in rooms must be in an air tight container and within their personal food lockers.

Students are expected to care for their own clothes and this means that they should be hung neatly or folded away. Soiled clothing should be kept out of sight in a laundry bag and shoes stored in the bottom of their cupboard.

Belongings left on desks, on top of cupboards or under beds are to be left in such a way that is not unsightly nor will cause difficulties for the cleaners.

Students are not permitted to have kettles, heaters, fridges, electric blankets, toasters, televisions etc. in their rooms.

Some electrical items are accepted such as clock radios, fans and a small stereo; however, they must be tested and tagged each year to show that they meet electrical compliance.

The Boarding House Parents will decide what is acceptable and what is not.

POSTERS AND DECORATIONS

Students are encouraged to create a sense of ownership of their own room and area by adding posters and decorations. Some simple guidelines apply and there must be a balance of images and interests. Any poster, which could be considered offensive by any visitor to the House or the staff who work there, is not allowed. Discretion in these matters is the right of the boarding staff and posters may be removed.

HOUSE CARE

It is expected that each student respects the House in which they reside. Activities like ball games, running, wrestling or other ideas that the students think up that are likely to cause damage to the House or furniture are not permitted.

It is an expected courtesy that any damage of fixtures, furniture or fittings will be reported to the person on duty immediately. Students are financially responsible for any breakages.

All students will receive areas of responsibility for the good order of the House. It is important that each student is conscientious about their particular area of responsibility.

WE ARE AN ALLERGY AWARE SCHOOL

Peace Lutheran College is an allergy aware school and as such students, parents and staff are reminded that no nuts or nut products should be brought into the school.

Whilst we do not claim to be ‘nut-free’, minimising exposure to particular foods such as peanuts and tree nuts can reduce the level of risk. This can include removing nut spreads and products containing nuts from the boarding community, but does not include removing products that ‘may contain traces’ of peanuts or tree nuts.

GENERAL INFORMATION

PHONES/IPODS/IPADS/STEREOS (SPEAKERS)/LAPTOPS/GAMING DEVICES/ MONITORS

1. The boarding staff reserve the right to control the noise (bass) level within a student’s room to a reasonable level and to restrict any music, lyrics or groups which are not deemed appropriate.

2. It is understood that all personal belongings are to be cared for by the student and that the College takes no responsibility for lost or stolen goods. It is recommended that all property is named clearly with an indelible method in more than one place.

3. Individuals respect the views of others concerning the type of music played. Headphones are essential to allow for these differences.

4. Such items are easily lost. We must remind parents that no responsibility will be accepted by the boarding community for any items other than those which are lodged with the boarding staff.

5. Personal gaming machines (Playstation, Xbox, etc) are not allowed to be brought into the residences. Playstations and Xbox machines are provided within the boarders Recreation Centre for the students to use.

6. All electronic devices are collected before bedtime (Years 7 to 11).

7. Whilst at school, students are only allowed to access the internet through the College network. Use of thirdparty internet connections (for example, Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) is not allowed. Students found using these services with their laptops will have their laptops (and the device creating the tether) confiscated.

8. Televisions or monitors are not permitted in rooms. The use of a monitor may be allowed for students in Year 11 and 12 to assist with study and if required this should be discussed with your child’s House Parent.

BUDGETING /BANKING / POCKET MONEY

Learning how to make choices about what to spend money on is a vital life skill. It is important that your child knows how much money they will receive as a weekly allowance, or per term, and on what they are allowed to spend it.

All boarding students should come to school with a card which enables them to access cash at an ATM. This may be new to some students so it may be necessary to give your child some lessons on withdrawing cash and accessing account balances. It may be advisable to have the statements from the account sent home so you are able to check on your child’s success with budgeting. Your child should also be advised to keep the card in a secure place at all times.

There are no rules regarding the amount of pocket money you allocate to your child for a term. Good judgment should dictate this. For younger students, we would suggest around $10.00 per week would be adequate. Larger items or expenses should always be discussed with parents.

COMMUNITY SPORT

Boarding students have the opportunity to become involved within local community sporting teams. We are strong believers in this concept and encourage all students to immerse themselves where possible. Being involved in community sporting teams allows the students to meet other people, not only from Peace Lutheran College, but from the wider community. We have developed strong community partnerships, which will allow us to find a team for a child in any sport they choose.

Transport to and from training and games should be organised through the team the students are representing but if need be we can assist the boarders in this area.

GENERAL INFORMATION

PART-TIME WORK

Boarders are encouraged to find a part-time job that does not interfere with their academic studies or their boarding commitments. The following restrictions apply:

• Only Year 11 and Year 12 students may have a parttime job off campus

• Year 10 students may find work on campus, for example OHSC or with the school cleaner

• Students are responsible for travel, both to and from their job

• Students may only work one weekday afternoon/ evening and one weekend day

• Comply with any restrictions required by the Heads of Boarding; and

• Student’s academic results need to be maintained or improved.

Boarding does not allow students who are not in Year 10, 11 or 12 to have part-time work. We believe that students need to be focusing on their academic studies.

SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS AND BIKES

Skateboards, scooters (Years 7 to 12) and bikes years (10 to 12 only) are allowed onsite as long as they are ridden in accordance with the road and school rules.

An Australian Standard helmet must be worn when riding and it is highly recommended that wrist guards and knee pads (Australian Standard) be worn when riding skateboards and/or scooters. Regular servicing must be maintained to ensure all skateboards, scooters and bikes are in safe working order. No motorised forms of skateboards, scooters or bikes are permitted.

SCHOOL FACILITIES

Boarding students have access to all of the college's facilities whilst they are open and correctly supervised. The swimming pool, sport and Boarders Recreation Centre can be opened during parts of each weekend and during the week and the students are encouraged to use them as much as possible.The ovals and basketball courts are always available and utilised heavily.

DRIVING & TRAVELLING IN CARS

Boarding students with licenses may only drive on the school property in the company of their parents or if special permission has been granted by the head of boarding.

No cars are to be driven or parked on the premises whilst a child lives within the boarding community. If a rare occasion should arise when a boarder, with a driver’s license, wishes to drive a car, or parents wish them to do so, the Boarding House Parent must have a written request from the parents. If permission is granted the keys to the vehicle must be handed into the office where the keys will be stored within the safe.

We request that NO boarding student travels as a passenger in a vehicle driven by another student, unless permission has been granted by the House Parent.

The need to prevent casual and spur-of-the-moment acceptance of lifts becomes more important as boarding students grow older. While there are a few boarding students who have access to a motor vehicle, there usually is quite a large number of day students who are legally entitled to drive and have ready access to motor vehicles.

DELIVERY MEALS

Delivery meals may only be called to the Houses with the permission of the House Parents. Any meals that are ordered without prior consent will be confiscated.

FEEDBACK AND SUGGESTIONS

We always welcome feedback and suggestions and there is a link on the sidebar of the Boarding Newsletter for anyone who would like to contribute to our boarding community.

SPORTS FIELDS

PEACE • EXCELLENCE • RESPECT • COMMUNITY

50-60 Cowley Street, Kamerunga PO Box 72F, Freshwater QLD 4870

P: 4039 9000, F: 4039 1623, E: enrolments@plc.qld.edu.au

W: www.plc.qld.edu.au