ST DOMINIC’S PRIORY HIGH SCHOOL
HANDBOOK and Code of Conduct
2009
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND LEARNERS
Dear Parents and learners
A number of years ago we embarked on
producing this handbook for parents and learners as a ready reference of how
things work at Priory High School.
Its purpose is to be a resource for parents, learners, staff and
community. It is our hope it will be used in the following ways:
· &n=
bsp;
As a source of information regarding serv=
ices
and resources to assist families in ensuring a successful school experience=
for
our learners.
· &n=
bsp;
As a guide to Priory School and Board Pol=
icy,
and to set forth expectations of standards of achievement, attendance and
behaviour for learners and parents.
All those who receive and use this handbo=
ok
should note the equal importance of the learner’s responsibility for
his/her acceptable behaviour and the protection of a learner’s right =
to
fair and just treatment.
At the end of 2008 we undertook a process=
of
wide consultation and investigation of best practice in order to improve our
Code of Conduct. Please ensur=
e you
familiarise yourself with it.
The Handbook is designed to acquaint you with the expectations of the school
and to help you understand various procedures. It includes important
information that you will need to know at some point during the year.
The Board of Governors expects the school to maintain an atmosphere in which
students can maximize their academic potential in a safe and encouraging
environment. It is the school’s goal to work with parents and learner=
s to
provide the best possible educational experience for all. If we, as a
community, keep the best interest of our learners as our top priority, and =
if
we hold fast to our core values of respect for self, others and our
environment; as well as love for God and others, we will make the right cho=
ices
and decisions.
By working together we will create a posi=
tive
and supportive school community. We would appreciate it if you would read
through the handbook and share the pertinent information as a family.
Yours sincerely
Esme Verfuss
PRINCIPAL
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St Dominic’s
Priory High School, a co-educational Catholic school from Gr
8 to 12, is the end result of various Port Elizabeth Catholic High Schools
coming together on the current premises.&n=
bsp;
The school has been operating in its present form since January,
2000—but has a long and proud history.
The school rememb=
ers
its history in the naming of its houses.
=
TRINITY HOUSE - &=
nbsp; Eternal
life is this; to know you, the only true God. (Jn
17:3).
To know God as he
really is, is to know God as the unity of the Three Divine Persons - a unity which is the model o=
f all
human society.
Feastday: &=
nbsp; Sunday
after Pentecost.
History: &=
nbsp; Trinity
High School in Port Elizabeth was formed in 1983 from the amalgamation =
of
Holy Rosary Convent, St Dominic’s Priory School (for girls, founded on
these premises in 1900) and Marist Brothers’, Wa=
lmer.
=
ROSARY HOUSE &=
nbsp; - Mary kept all these
things, pondering them in her heart. (Lk 1:19).=
The Rosary is the
prayer in honour of Our Lady by which we seek an ever deeper understanding =
of
the mystery of the Incarnation, by which God’s love is revealed in the
life, death and resurrection of his Son, Jesus Christ.
Feastday: &=
nbsp; 7
October
History: &=
nbsp; Holy
Rosary Convent School was opened in 1867 by the Dominican Sisters, who =
had
first arrived in South Africa in 1863.
=
MARCELLIN HOUSE =
- Let the children come to =
me, do
not hinder them;
for to such belongs the Kingdom of God. (Mk 10:14).
The house has been
named for Saint Marcellin =
Champagnat,
who founded the Marist Brothers of the Schools for the Christian education =
of
youth in the spirit of Mary.
Feastday: &=
nbsp; 6
June
History: &=
nbsp; The
first Marist Brothers’ College in the Eastern Cape was founded=
in
1875 in Port Elizabeth, from where they opened another school in Uitenhage in 1884. In 1952 this school was
transferred to Walmer.
The MOTTO of=
the school, as for all Dominican schools, is VERITAS, which means
Learners who are absent must bring a dated excuse =
note
to their class teacher on the day they return giving the following
information:
=
Name
and class of learner;
=
Date/s
learner was absent;
=
Reason for non-attendance. (Not just a mention that s/=
he was
ill.)
=
Signature of parent or guardian.
NB:
Failure to produce an absentee note by the first Friday after return=
to school, may result in detention.
For absence as a result of illness of more than two
days, a doctor’s certificate is required. It is the learner’s
responsibility to ensure that missed work is caught up. In cases of serious illness, please
inform the school office so that peer assistance can be arranged. N.B.
Learners may enter the school at any stage up to G=
rade
10, provided vacancies exist and subject to an interview. Only in special
circumstances will anyone be admitted in Gr 11 =
and
12.
Withdrawal from Priory: Parents are reminded that a
term’s notice must be given in writing and should be addressed to the
Principal. Failure to do this,
results in a term’s fees being charged in lieu of notice.
Awards are presented to Learners who have excelled=
not
only in the academic, but also in cultural and sporting spheres and who have
met the standards according to specified criteria. The School strives to encourage
participation and excellence in all spheres. Achievements will be acknowledged =
at
Assembly and in Newsletters.
For participation in activities outside of school,
official acknowledgement will not be made unless a letter from the body
concerned, confirming his/her selection to play for a team has been receive=
d by
the school . We do like to hear of all the succe=
sses
and achievements of our learners and we would like to congratulate everyone=
who
has achieved something special.
Parents are asked to keep the school advised of achievements.
Academic awards for all Grades are made at the Ann=
ual
Prize Giving in October. Award
Assemblies are also held from time to time
We are proud of the standards of behaviour
of our learners and expect them to behave in an exemplary manner at all tim=
es.
The basic codes of respect, care and concern for others, kindness and good =
manners, are traditional values upheld at St Dominic&#=
8217;s
Priory. We must also remember that we share=
our
premises with our junior and pre school, as wel=
l as
with the Convent. Considerati=
on for
all, especially the Sisters for whom Priory is home, must be shown at all
times.
Inappropriate behaviour
constitutes misconduct. This extends to bad language, insolence and rudenes=
s,
inappropriate physical contact, bullying, running in corridors, excessive n=
oise
in and out of buildings, as well as littering.
All are expected to behave in a manner befitting a
formal educational institution. Adults and visitors should be accorded spec=
ial
respect:
All adults should be greeted and be given the
right of way in corridors and through any entrances.
Visitors should be greeted and offered help =
and
courtesy.
St Dominic’s Priory School is owned by the <=
span
class=3DSpellE>Cabra Dominican Sisters and is affiliated to the Cath=
olic
Institute of Education. It is
governed by a Board of Governors who provide val=
uable
support, expert advice and direction in various aspects of the management a=
nd
administration of the school.
We must teach for 196-200 days per year. Therefore, sporting and school com=
munity
events may be scheduled for a Saturday or after hours. Normal attendance and absentee
procedures may apply on these days.
Parents are notified well in advance of important dates where compul=
sory
attendance applies.
The school accepts no responsibility for the
disappearance of items left lying around.&=
nbsp;
Valuables and unnecessary items must not be brought to school. If this is unavoidable, they
should be handed to a staff member or the office for safekeeping. All articles should be clearly mar=
ked
with a learner’s full name. Any items found are sent to th=
e lost
property cupboard, from where they may be retrieved. If there was negligenc=
e, a
fine may be levied. Unclaimed lost property is given to a worthy cause or to
the school shop for resale.
Speakers from tertiary institutions and industry a=
re
invited to speak to our senior learners about careers from time to time.
It is expected that parents and learners are famil=
iar
with all aspects of our Code of Conduct.&n=
bsp;
Please consult it regularly.
Parents are urged to contact the school immediately
when they have a query or concern about their son/daughter. We consider communication between =
school
and home to be of the utmost importance.&n=
bsp;
The following is a guideline outlining the
responsibilities of staff and the most appropriate channels of communicatio=
n:
Class or subject teachers: academic matters, progress, homework and ordinary
absenteeism;
Sports, music or extramural teachers or
coaches: queries relating to these activities,
absenteeism;
GET Head of Department (Mrs Ladds): academic matters, behaviour
or pastoral care issues in Gr 8 and Gr 9; Gr 9 subject choice=
s.
FET Head of Department (Mrs Louwrens): academic matters, subject choices, subject changes=
, behaviour or pastoral care issues in Gr
10, 11 and 12.
RE Co-ordinator =
/ co=
unsellor (Mr Hattingh): careers, life skills matters, counselling or pastoral issues
School office (Mrs Mich=
ell): general enquiries and information, notifica=
tion
of achievements or awards, special absenteeism, health concerns;
Fees Administration (Mrs Raubenheimer): Matters relating to payment of school fees=
Principal (Mrs Verfuss): liaison with the Board of Governors, admissions,
withdrawals, financial and contractual matters, marketing, future and strat=
egic
planning, facilities and curriculum development, any matter which parents f=
eel
warrants the Head’s involvement, advice or intervention.
IT IS REQUESTED THAT PARENTS DO NOT PHONE STAFF AT
HOME UNLESS THEY HAVE BEEN INVITED TO DO SO.
The PTA (parents and teachers
association) can liaise with the school for queries regarding matters of a
general nature.
A meeting for new parents is held annually.<= o:p>
A Parents’ Consultation Evening is
arranged for all grades.
As a Catholic school, being other-centered is very
important to us. We support t=
he
needy by means of various projects undertaken by staff and learners. Among
these are a township soup kitchen, Interact projects, supporting a less
well-resourced school, Enviro Club beach clean-=
ups
and animal shelter volunteering. We
urge learners and parents to help us support these projects when called upo=
n to
do so. Also see MENTORING.
We have a well equipped computer laboratory and an
extensive network that allows us to offer computer facilities and internet
access to all our staff and learners.
Computer skills are taught as part of the Technology curriculum in <=
span
class=3DSpellE>Gr 8 and 9.
Computer Applications Technology and Information Technology are Subj=
ects
on offer for Gr 10—12. Our budgeting allows for us to upg=
rade
on a regular basis to keep our equipment up to date. The computer l=
ab.
is available for learners’ use after hours=
. There is a Computer Club for those
interested in Programming and Web design. For ACCEPTABLE USE =
POLICY—see
APPENDIX 2.
The following are offered at St Dominic’s:
Debating, Public speaking, House Plays, JCC (Junior City Council),
Toastmasters, Interact, Enviro Club, First Aid,
Drama, Chess, Annual Drama Production. The opportunity to go to Europe on=
a
Cultural tour is being offered to our Gr 10R=
12;12
learners.
Those who break minor rules are punished by being
placed in Leaders’ Detention which takes place during school l=
unch
break. For more serious and repeated offences, offenders are placed in the=
main
detention run by school staff on Friday afternoons from 14h00 to 16h00.
Written notification is given at least 48 hours in advance for which the
learner signs a receipt. Lear=
ners
are required to deliver this notification, which contains full details of
offence and punishment, to parents/guardians on the day on which it is
received. Saturday Detenti=
on (Principal’s
detention) takes place on Saturdays from 08h00-11h00 and is for more serious
misconduct or repeated offences.
Parents will be notified of dates. Full Detention Rules are availabl=
e at
the school office.
Accidents and other medical emergencies are taken
seriously by school staff. Du=
ring
the school day learners must report sick to Mrs Michel=
l
in the school office (with the permission of the teacher in class at the
time). If necessary, parents =
will
be contacted. Please do not s=
end
learners who are already seriously ill to school. Learners are not to contact
parents or request to be fetched without reporting to the school office.
The Fee Administrator (Mrs Ev=
ie
Raubenheimer) deals with all financial matters
related to school fees. State=
ments
of account are sent home monthly. Fees are payable by monthly debit order or
annually in advance. Ensure y=
our
fees are always up to date as your child may be excluded from some excursio=
ns
if not. Queries can be addres=
sed to
Mrs Raubenheimer.
Homework is an important part of learning and lear=
ners
are expected to do all work set every day.=
Parents are asked to support the school by making sure that time<=
/b>
is set aside every day and homework is done. If no specific homework is set for=
a
subject, learners must use this time for the preparation and consolidation =
of
work or for reviewing the day’s work. Don’t let your son/daughter tell you
there is NO HOMEWORK. To be of value homework must be regular. Parents can =
help
by:
ensuring some quiet place is provided where learners=
can
work undisturbed;
insisting on regularity of work;
showing positive interest in the work.
This assists in developing independent study habits
and ensuring good progress through secondary school.
Plagiari=
sm is to use another’s work and to pretend t=
hat
it is one’s own. It is a
growing problem with ease of internet access. All homework, essays, assignments =
and
research projects must be OWN work.
When using sources, citation and referencing mus=
t be
done according to the Harvard Convention (taught at school) and available in
the library. It is equ=
ally
bad to allow one’s work to be passed off as their=
own
by others. Plagiarism constit=
utes
dishonesty and is serious misconduct.
Punctuality is very
important. Names of latecomer=
s will
be taken by Leaders on duty. =
Three
late arrivals will result in a detention.&=
nbsp;
If there is a genuine reason for a late arrival, parents are asked to
send an explanation IN WRITING. A record of latecomers will be kept. Lateco=
mers
must repo=
rt
to their homeroom teacher as soon as possible so that they are not recorded=
as
being absent for the day.
Learners are encouraged=
to
take on positions of responsibility in many areas: as Class Captains, Monit=
ors,
Sports Captains, House Captains and Leaders, Seniors
and LRC (Learners’ Representative Council) reps. These roles should be seen as
opportunities to develop important life skills as well as serving the schoo=
l.
Leaders (Gr 12) are elected by learners and by staff members. As well as playing a
disciplinary role in the school, their role is also to plan, organise and assist with social, cultural and sporting
events with the intention of creating a positive school spirit. Other Gr 12s are also Seniors, and as such assist the
Leaders when called upon, set a good example, and be role models for the ju=
nior
grades.
A Learners’ Re=
presentative
Council (LRC) comprising elected representatives from each class serves=
as
an invaluable channel for communication between the learners and school
management.
Our Library is expandin=
g in
terms of =
the
number and quality of books. There are internet and computer based
research facilities in the Library.
The shelving and furniture has recently been upgraded. A love of reading and appreciation=
for
the value of books is very important in anyone’s education. We urge parents to encourage frequ=
ent
and responsible use of the school library. Mrs Lise
Whatley, our Librarian, aims to provide reading incentives to all learners =
to
encourage the use of the Library. Timeous retur=
n of
borrowed books is very important.
Detention, fines and ultimately an account for a lost book could res=
ult
if books are not returned.
Please note that visito=
rs
or messages to learners during the school day is=
not
allowed. If there is an emerg=
ency,
contact the school office. It=
is
not possible to relay routine telephone messages from parents to learners.<=
span
style=3D'mso-spacerun:yes'> Please make arrangements in advanc=
e. In
an emergency we will be glad to help.
Part of the Life
Orientation Curriculum enables learners to earn credits for community
service. There is a peer ment=
oring programme whereby capable learners assist those who
struggle academically or are in lower grades with homework and test remedia=
tion
where this is considered by the teaching staff to be beneficial. For this they earn community service credits and also benefit their own school work=
. Mentoring sessions will take place=
by
mutual agreement between parties.
Mrs Robson is the liaison and coordinating teacher for those who mentor
or are mentored.
Staff members act as
mentors to Gr 12 learners to ensure that they
maintain their academic focus throughout the year.
Tuition in a variety of
musical instruments is offered as a school subject for those who qualify an=
d/or
as an extra at St Dominic’s. Among these are piano, guitar, woodwind/=
brass
instruments and percussion.
We also have a music ensemble that performs at school functions. The school choir practices once a =
week
and performs for functions and music evenings. If interested, contact the Head of
Music, Mrs Lestie Hughes, in this regard.
Monday-Thursday: =
07h30-15h30
Friday: &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; =
07h30-15h00
School holidays: &=
nbsp; 08h30-12h30
the week before school opens in January.
It is compulsory for all
learners to take part in the Physical Education Progra=
mme
in grades 8 to 12. This forms=
part
of the Life Orientation curriculum.
Learners will be exempted on receipt of a Medical Certificate only. =
For
a learner to be excused from a lesson, a note signed by the parent, giving =
the
medical reason why the learner cannot participate, has
to be handed to the PE teacher at the start of the lesson. Learners must we=
ar
the correct PE clothes. See u=
niform
requirements.
A portfolio is a collection of a
learner’s evidence of formal assessment tasks and is determined by
• =
A contents page.
• =
The tests/examinations and assessment tasks each
clearly separated from the next in accordance with the contents page.
Portfolio tasks make up a critical part of the learner’s Continuous Assessment mark. The evidence of the learner’= s performance in the tasks has to be kept for moderation purposes. If portfolio tasks are returned to the learner for remediation purposes, please ensure the work is= not lost or mislaid. External moderation applies for Grades 9 and 12. Completing a portfolio task is not optional! Learners will be detained at school for completion of portfolio t= asks that are not submitted on time and not merely marked absent or given a 0. <= o:p>
Full reports are sent out in June a=
nd December. Progress reports are sent in March=
and
September. Matrics
will also receive full Trials exams reports in September. Parents may consu=
lt
with staff on learners’ academic achievement and progress at the third
term Parents’ consultation meeting, or by arrangement whenever
necessary. Letters will be se=
nt out
to parents of learners who are not progressing satisfactorily after the
September report. This will t=
ake
place after interviews are held with these learners by their subject teache=
rs
and/or the school management.
A learner will be promo=
ted
based on achievement throughout the year. Apart from the formal
examinations at the end of the year, marks are taken from class work, homew=
ork,
projects, assignments and standardized tests (Continuous Assessment or CASS
marks). If, owing to medical
reasons, he/she misses an examination, a medical certificate must be
produced. If a learner fails =
to
hand in work on time without a valid reason, and/or is absent for a test,
he/she may be given 0 marks or have marks deducted.
NB: Learners will <=
b>NOT
be promoted to the next grade if they have not met the passing criteria.
St Dominic’s Prio=
ry
High School is a Catholic school which promotes education based on values of
love for others and love for God.
All learners and teachers participate in school devotions and church
services. Attendance at certa=
in
celebrations in keeping with our school Ethos is compulsory, e.g. Confirmat=
ion
Mass. Catholics are offered
instruction for confirmation in Gr 11. Annual Retreats take place =
in all
grades and all learners have Religious Education lessons. These activities take place in kee=
ping
with our vision statement of respect for the cultural an=
d religious
values of all.
Book lists are made
available and book sales take place at school at the end of every year. Book orders and sales are coordina=
ted by
Mrs Raubenheimer (fees administrator). Notices =
are
sent to parents. Parents must=
ensure
that their son/daughter has all the requirements necessary. Learners who do=
not
have the necessary textbook and stationery requirements=
,
may be refused admittance to class.
The Religious Education
Coordinator (REC)
is available for pastoral counselling.
Any learner experiencing difficulties of an academic,
Vocational guidance and
life skills training also form an important part of our Life Orientation
curriculum.
Learners are expected t=
o be
at school by 07h30 in order for Assembly / Home Room lesson to start=
on
time at 07h40. School ends at=
14h15
on Monday—Thursday and at 13h30 on Fridays. Learners must be able to stay late=
r for
extra-curricular activities, extra lessons or detention as needed.
Learners must remain wi=
thin
the school boundaries at all times during the school day. Out of bounds areas must be strict=
ly
avoided. These will be clarif=
ied
from time to time. Note that random searching for illegal substances may be
carried out. There are proced=
ures
in place for emergency evacuation drills and there will be unannounced
evacuation drills from time to time.
A variety of sports are
offered at school. The programme of activities is made available at the begi=
nning
of every term. One wint=
er and
one summer sport is compulsory for all learners. Once
There are public teleph=
ones
available for use by the learners for urgent calls during breaks and after
school for outgoing calls only. Permission must be obtained from Mrs=
Michell for use of the telephones during school time.=
In
the case of emergencies, the school office telephone may be used with
permission. Learners are N=
OT permitted
to have cell phones (or personal music players, gaming devices, etc.) at
school. I=
f found,
these devices will be confiscated until the end of the term and returned to
parents only. The seco=
nd
time a cell phone is confiscated from the same learner, it will not be
returned.
Tests are written
regularly as part of the Assessment programme.<=
span
style=3D'mso-spacerun:yes'> There is an hour long test period =
every
Friday. Friday tests are
time-tabled in advance per term and the schedule will be made available at =
the
beginning of the term. Oth=
er
forms of assessment are also used, such as class tests, orals, practicals, assignments, etc. All of these form part =
of the
continuous assessment mark . Absence for tests without a medical
reason results in a 0. Failur=
e to
submit work or late submission may result in a 0, a reduction in marks and/=
or
detention and will lead to lower achievement at the end of the year. Learne=
rs
may be detained by a teacher for the purpose of completing work that is past
the submission date.
Exams are written in Ju=
ne
and November. The Matric or FET (Further Education and Training) examin=
ing
body is the IEB—Independent Examinations Board. This external exam is fully
accredited with the national Education Department and UMALUSI (the national
qualifications accreditation board). The IEB has established itself as a hi=
ghly
reputable body which maintains excellent standards and is recognised
as such nationally and internationally.
A Tuck shop operates at
break to provide learners with nutritious refreshments at reasonable
prices. A list of items avail=
able
and prices will be made available and updated when necessary. High school learners must wait unt=
il the
primary school pupils have gone back to class at the beginning of the high
school break before going to the tuck shop. There are healthy food options
available from the tuck shop and learners are encouraged to buy these inste=
ad
of foodstuffs with a lot of fats and sugar. Everybody must please comply with =
queue
control measures.
*******
UNIFORM
REQUIREMENTS AND REGULATIONS
The unif=
orm
is to be respected and worn with pride at all times.
Please n=
ote:
IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT ALL ITEMS OF CLOTHING ARE CLEARLY MARKED WITH THE
OWNER’S NAME.
GIRLS=
217;
SUMMER UNIFORM
School
blazer, grey regulation skirt, length 10 cm off ground (front and back) when
kneeling; white short-sleeved open-necked shirt (no top button); short white
ankle socks, worn folded down, not rolled, regulation black school
shoes—polished.
GIRLS=
217;
WINTER UNIFORM
School
blazer, grey regulation skirt (length as above), white long-sleeved shirt (=
with
top button); school tie (must cover top button); navy blue school
pullover/slipover (to fit, not loose and baggy), grey school socks, regulat=
ion
black shoes—polished. Navy school issue scarf may be worn if the weat=
her
is very cold. If gloves are worn, they must be navy blue. The School issue
beanie may only be worn whilst travelling to and from school. Girls may wear
navy blue opaque lycra
tights—obtainable from Woolworths and the school shop. Matric tie/jersey are opti=
onal.
BOYS’ SUMMER UNIFORM
School blazer, grey flannels—must t=
ouch
heel of shoe and must fit properly, white short-sleeved open-neck shirt (no=
top
button), black or grey belt , grey ankle socks, regulation black lac=
e-up
shoes—polished. Note: no slip-ons or square toes or welts.
BOYS’ WINTER UNIFORM
School blazer, grey flannels (as above re
length and fit), white long-sleeved shirt (with top button), school tie (mu=
st
cover top button), navy blue school pullover/slipover (to fit, not loose and
baggy), grey ankle socks, regulation black lace-op shoes. Scarf,
gloves and beanie as for Girls’ Uniform. =
Matric tie/jersey optional.=
TENNIS
Boys and Girls: Matches and Practices: PT
uniform, school tennis socks and tennis shoes. If peak cap is worn, must be
school issue.
SWIMMING
Boys and Girls—navy blue regulation
swimming costume, house-colour swimming cap, tracksuit<=
/span>.
Priory swimming cap compulsory for inter-schools’
galas.
GIRLS’ HOCKEY
Practices
(all teams): PT uniform. Matches:
blue hockey skorts, PT golf shirt, school hockey
socks, plain black hockey boots. First team: regulation hockey uniform, sch=
ool
hockey socks, plain black hockey boots.
BOYS’ HOCKEY
Practices: PT uniform. Matches: regulation
hockey uniform, school hockey socks, plain black hockey boots.
SOCCER
Practices: PT uniform, soccer socks (blue=
and
gold); Matches: soccer strip and socks (blue and gold), soccer boots
(predominantly black).
CRICKET
GIRLS’ CRICKET
Practices: PT uniform, white ankle socks,
hat/cap
BOYS’ CRICKET
Practices: PT uniform with long white soc=
ks.
Matches: white longs, white school golf PT shirt, white cricket jersey, whi=
te
cricket shoes, white socks. T=
he
cap/hat w=
orn,
must be school issue.
FOR ALL LEARNERS
PT UNIFORM: BOYS AND GIRLS) - WHITE SCHOOL GOLF PT SHIRT AND NAVY BLUE QUANTEC
SCHOOL ISSUE SHORTS, PREDOMINANTLY WHITE AND BLUE TACKIES.
GENERAL
Learners are expected to be neatly dressed in f=
ull
school uniform at all times.
School shirts must be tucked into trousers and
skirts. Laces must be tied.
=
Lace up tackies must be
predominantly white and blue. (No =
velcro,
no slip-ons). They must be sp=
orts
shoes.
=
HAIR: Hair must be neat and presentable =
and
not attract undue attention. Styles and colouring that are
“unnatural” and “unconventional” are not allowed. <=
/span>(This applies to girls and boys). Long hair (girls) must be tied bac=
k and
hair must be out of the face. Hair
accessories may be navy blue or tortoise-shell.
=
BOYS’ HAIR: Hair must not be long enough to touch the collar or cove=
r the
top of the ears or be long enough to fall into the eyes. Boys are to be cleanly shaven. Sideburns must not extend below
mid-ear. No gel is to be used=
to
spike hair. Hair must be neat=
ly
combed and not worn in a peak.
=
NO MAKE-UP IS
PERMITTED WHILST WEARING SCHOOL UNIFORM—this includes eyes, lips and
nails. No lip gloss. Nails must be short and neat.
=
JEWELLERY: Girls:
earrings: only small sleepers or plain studs (gold or silver only) - one pa=
ir
only, one in each ear. PLAIN wrist watches only. Boys: No jewellery. Plain watch on=
ly.
PRIORY SCHOOL SHOP (Dur=
ing
School Terms)
Monday to Thursda=
y 11h30 to 13=
h30; 14h00
to 14h30
Friday &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; 11h30
to 12h30
Or by arrangement– Ann Mowatt on <=
/span>041-396 2824 or 0732471316;=
email: mowatt@priory.co.za
Also: Birch=
217;s,
97 Second Avenue, Newton Park (tel. 041 363 1360) and Croft, McGill and
Watson, Govan Mbeki Street (tel 041 585 859=
4)
Please refer to t=
he
School Shop leaflet for details of items for sale. (January 2009)
COMPUTER FACILITIES -
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
EXPECTATIONS:
Learners are expe=
cted
to demonstrate appropriate behaviour when using the school’s computer
facilities just as they are in a classroom or playground. Communications on the Internet are=
often
public in nature and general school rules for behaviour and communications
therefore apply. The use of the computer facilities is a privilege, not a
right, and may be revoked if abused. Learners are responsible, personally, =
for
their actions in accessing and utilising the school’s computer resour=
ces.
Learners are expected never to access, keep or send anything that they would
not want their parents or teachers to see. It is expected that users will
comply with the specified standards and rules set out below.
Users are expecte=
d to
use Internet facilities primarily for:
direct educational purposes &n=
bsp;
constructive communication with other e-mail users, provided it is not anti-soci=
al
in nature.
UNACCEPTABLE USES:
The following
behaviour or uses are unacceptable and punishment will be given to offender=
s:
Using language th=
at
is considered offensive in anything you write or send – this includes
impolite, anti-social, profane, abusive, racist, or sexist language.
Where access to t=
he
Internet is granted to a learner, this is on the understanding that it is f=
or
educational, research purposes only and no learner may enter chat rooms
Attempting to access pornographic or sexually explicit material of a=
ny
kind, via e-mail or any other Internet facility. Learners attempting to
access unacceptable sites will be excluded from the centre for at least
one-month or longer, depending on the severity of the offence. A letter wil=
l be
sent home informing the parents of the site visited and a letter will be ke=
pt
on record. Parents will have to send in a reply slip and may be called in f=
or
an interview to view the sites that their child was attempting to access.
Sending or re-sen=
ding
chain letters.
Mail-bombing another person’s e-mail account.
Using anyone
else’s login and thereby impersonating and possibly incriminating ano=
ther
user. This is regarded as fraud.
Giving your passw=
ord
to any other person – there is never a reason for someone else to know
your login and password. If a=
ny
data is needed by anyone other than the owner, a request needs to be made to
the Network Administrator, and such access will be strictly controlled. You
will be held responsible for any infringements committed using your login,
along with anyone found to be using your login.
Attempting to hack
into or interfere with any other account, including any attempt to break in=
to
the network, or spread viruses.
Copying any games or other unauthorized software onto or from any pa=
rt
of the network including your personal directory. Pirating of soft=
ware
is a criminal offence, and no shareware software is allowed unless it is
approved and installed by the Network Administrator.
Tampering with
equipment or moving equipment from the labs or classrooms. No-one may be in
possession of any school computer equipment without the written permission =
of
the Network Administrator.
Altering the defa=
ult
settings of the computer or installing software without the express permiss=
ion
of the Network Administrator
Vandalising any equipment. Learners will be expec=
ted
to pay for any costs occurred through deliberate damage of computer equipme=
nt.
Unauthorised games
may not be played on the computers at any time.
The use of the
Internet during class time, without permission, is not acceptable. If the w=
ork
set has been completed, permission may be asked to work on the Internet. If
pupils misuse this privilege, Internet access will be blocked for use at all
times and the privilege removed.
General
All users a=
re
entitled to reasonable privacy of their work under normal circumstances and
therefore it is an offence to attempt to use another person’s login or
password. The IT Manager or staff designated by the IT
Manager have the right to investigate any learner’s e-mail who=
, in
their opinion, might be transgressing either the rules or the spirit of the
Acceptable Use Policy.
All learners
are allocated a maximum amount of storage. The responsibility rests with the
individual to manage this space and delete unnecessary files. If you allow =
the
quota to be exceeded, your account may be disabled and disciplinary action =
may
be taken against you. If this happens, give your name, class and username to
the educator on duty. The custodians will pass this on to the administrator=
who
will clear your workspace when time permits.
Outside of
lesson times, only one learner is allowed per PC.
Flash drive=
s or
other storage media brought to school must be virus free and fit for use so=
as
not to damage school equipment.
The Computer
Labs are open, generally, on a Monday to Thursday afternoon from
14h30—15h30 for the purpose of school work. Should you wish to use the Internet
outside class time you will be expected to pay a fee per session.
Computers a=
nd
internet for learners’ use are also provided in the library under the
supervision of the Librarian.
Do not print
e-mails, party invitations, personal pictures or personal work. The printer=
is
provided as a service and should be used for school-related work only. Never print more than one final
original. There will be a cost per page for colour or excessive printing /
private printing.
Keep the la=
bs
tidy, use the recycle bins and do not eat or drink in the lab. This includes
water and chewing gum.
It is your
responsibility to report any damage or problems with the computer you are u=
sing
otherwise you may end up being held responsible.
Learners do=
ing
IT as a subject and bringing Laptops to school, =
will
be provided with lockers and will have to comply with their own
regulations. These will be gi=
ven to
them in the course of the 1st week of school.
ST DOMINIC'S PRIO=
RY
HIGH SCHOOL : CODE OF CONDUCT
The Lord Jesus taught us to love the Lord our God with all our heart
… and our neighbour as ourselves (Mk 12:29). Loving God, others and
ourselves obliges us to conduct ourselves with respect for ourselves, other=
s,
our school environment and God’s creation in general.
The Catholic school, in following and serving Him, and in response to
His divine word:
Acknowledges and acclaims Jesus Christ as=
Lord
and upholds the Ethos of the school
Is committed to the responsibility of car=
ing
for God’s creation;
Is committed to upholding the rights and
dignity of others, and to fulfilling the obligations of self;
Strives towards a community living togeth=
er
in truth, integrity, justice and peace.
These values, which form
the foundation of Catholic education, are included in the school's mission
statement and guide our Code of Conduct. A nurturing and loving environment,
which enables members of the school community to co-operate and work towards
common goals is vital in order to develop mutual=
trust
and understanding. Christ's mission is to heal and reconcile and so the
response to disciplinary issues is based on healing and reconciliation as f=
ar
as possible. Those members of the school community who are not followers of
Christ nevertheless choose this school because they identify with the values
that we uphold.
The Code of Conduct ser=
ves
to:
uphold the Catholic ethos of =
the
school
promote positive behaviour by all members of the school community and
clarify the school’s expectations
create a morally sound climate
conducive to individual learning and personal development
foster discipline within the
school in a spirit of co-operation and trust with an understanding that the=
re
will be consequences for not taking these responsibilities seriously
motivate learners to achieve th=
eir
full potential through constructive critical thinking, good time management=
and
responsible decision making
encourage co-operation and
participation in all spheres of school life and behavior which is socially
acceptable
These rules apply whils=
t at
school, on any school outing and whilst in school uniform.
1 =
SCHOOL
ATTENDANCE and PUNCTUALITY
1.1 &nb=
sp; Full
attendance is required as per the school calendar, whether or not academic =
work
is being done. Regular absence disrupts continuity of class work and hinders
successful learning.
1.2 &nb=
sp; Notes
from parents regarding pupils' absenteeism must be provided on the day of
return to school.
1.3 &nb=
sp; A
medical certificate is required for an absence of more than two days.
1.4 &nb=
sp; The
school reserves the right to refuse entry to examinations to those whose
attendance is insufficient for quality learning.
1.5 &nb=
sp; It
is required that pupils are punctual. Assembly begins at 7:40 (this means arriv=
al
on the property before 7:40). Late arrival at
school, for Assembly or for lessons shows a lack of discipline. A learner must apologise
to the educator concerned and get a late note from the office. Late coming =
will
be monitored and followed up by the phase HOD for further action if necessa=
ry.
1.6 &nb=
sp; Permission must be
obtained from the school authorities to leave the school property during sc=
hool
hours. If permission is granted, the person collecting the learner will be
required to fetch the learner from the Office. Learners themselves may not
phone parents to collect them during school hours.
1.7 &nb=
sp; Absence
from lessons without permission is a serious breach of conduct.
2. VISITORS
2.1 &nb=
sp; An
appointment to meet with class/subject teacher must be made by
parents/guardians with the school secretary.
2.2 &nb=
sp; Visitors
must first report to the office.
2.3 &nb=
sp; Permission
from the principal is necessary before visiting a classroom during school
hours.
3. PROTECTION
OF PROPERTY
=
All
at the school must show regard for their own and others’ property.
3.1 &nb=
sp; Every
learner is responsible for his/her own property at school. The school cannot
take responsibility for any loss whatsoever. Valuables must not be brought =
to
school if it can be avoided.
3.2 &nb=
sp; All
pupils and parents are obliged to protect the school's property and to repo=
rt
damage immediately to school authorities. Learners may not interfere with school notice
boards, desks, public telephones or any other school property. All games th=
at
may cause damage to property (ball games, cycling, roller-skating/blading, etc) may not be played near any buildings or
vehicles.
3.2 &nb=
sp; No
property may be loaned or removed from the school premises without permissi=
on
from the school authorities.
3.3 &nb=
sp; Parents
will be liable for the replacement of damaged or lost school property or
property belonging to other members of the school community when damaged by
their child.
3.4 &nb=
sp; Misuse
of, damage to or vandalism of school property is unacceptable and could lea=
d to
suspension or expulsion.
SCHOOL UNIFORM AND
APPEARANCE
School uniform and
appearance as per uniform regulations: Appendix 1.
5. RESPECT,
SAFETY AND CONDUCT
5.1 &nb=
sp; Pupils
are expected to treat everyone with courtesy, respect and consideration at =
all
times. Bullying, whether physical, verbal or emotional =
will
be treated as serious misconduct.
5.2 &nb=
sp; Pupils
must commit themselves to do their schoolwork and to complete homework and
assigned tasks on time.
5.3 &nb=
sp; Pupils
must have the correct books.
5.4 &nb=
sp; Noise
level must be kept to a minimum while moving from lesson to lesson and in
class.
5.5 &nb=
sp; Bad
language is not permitted under any circumstances.
5.6 &nb=
sp; Eating
food is not allowed in classrooms or school buildings or in public in school
uniform, unless seated in a food establishment
5.7 &nb=
sp; Gum
may not be chewed in school uniform or on school property.
5.8 &nb=
sp; Improper
behaviour in public, which brings the school in=
to
disrepute, is viewed in a serious light.
5.9 &nb=
sp; Inappropriate
public displays of affection are unacceptable.
5.10 &n=
bsp; Copying
of another pupil's homework or doing another subject's homework in class is=
not
acceptable.
5.11 &n=
bsp; No-one
may leave a classroom without permission from the teacher concerned.
5.12 &n=
bsp; Cheating
or lying is unacceptable.
5.13 &n=
bsp; Appearance
and behavior at sports matches and school outings must be according to
acceptable Priory values. Fair play, good manners and sporting behavior mus=
t be
adhered to.
5.14 &n=
bsp; Littering
is unacceptable. If found, litter must be disposed of i=
n the
bins provided. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure a
litter-free school environment.
6. EXTRA-MURAL
ACTIVITIES
6.1 &nb=
sp; Commitment
to extra-mural activities is essential.
6.2 &nb=
sp; Letters
of excuse must be handed to the teacher concerned prior to the practice/eve=
nt.
6.3 &nb=
sp; Every
pupil must participate in at least one sport as an extra-mural activity.
6.4 &nb=
sp; Failure
to attend events, practices and matches without =
due
cause will result in disciplinary measures being taken.
7. DISCIPLINE
Disciplinary measures m=
ay
be taken against pupils for any contravention of the Code of Conduct.
7.1 &nb=
sp; Disciplinary
measures will be taken according to the nature of the transgressions.
7.2 &nb=
sp; Teachers
will use their own procedures to ensure that successful learning takes plac=
e in
the classroom.
7.3 &nb=
sp; A
programme of school service and suspension from
school activities for certain infractions of the rules will apply.
7.4 &nb=
sp; Where
appropriate, parents will be informed about any infringement of the rules a=
nd
measures taken.
7.5 &nb=
sp; Minor
transgressions will initially be dealt with by the teacher and after
unsuccessful resolution, referred to higher school authority (Head of
Department or Principal).
7.6 &nb=
sp; Detention
(on weekday afternoons and/or Saturday mornings) forms part of the discipli=
nary
measures.
7.7 &nb=
sp; Non-attendance
at detention is viewed as Serious Misconduct (8).
8. SERIOUS
MISCONDUCT
Offences on or off the
school property, or on school outings that may lead to suspension and/or
expulsion, include, but are not limited to the following:
8.1 &nb=
sp; Conduct
which endangers the safety or violates the rights of others.
8.2 &nb=
sp; Possession
or smoking of cigarettes while in uniform or on school property.
8.3 &nb=
sp; Possession
or use of a dangerous weapon.
8.4 &nb=
sp; Possession
or use of, transmission or visible evidence of narcotic or unauthorised
drugs, alcohol or intoxicants of any kind.
8.5 &nb=
sp; Fighting,
assault or battery.
8.6 &nb=
sp; Immoral
behaviour or sexual misconduct, including sexual
harassment.
8.7 &nb=
sp; Pregnancy
8.8 &nb=
sp; Disrespectful
or objectionable behaviour and verbal abuse.
8.9 &nb=
sp; Repeated
violations of school rules or Code of Conduct.
8.10 &n=
bsp; Victimisation or bullying or intimidation of other pu=
pils.
8.11 &n=
bsp; Infringement
of examination rules.
8.12 &n=
bsp; Stealing
8.13 &n=
bsp; Vandalism
8.14 &n=
bsp; Forgery
8.15 &n=
bsp; Any
criminal offence
9. DISCIPLINARY
PROCESS FOR SERIOUS MISCONDUCT
9.1 &nb=
sp; Parents
will be notified immediately of any serious misconduct.
9.2 &nb=
sp; The
principal may send the pupil home pending a disciplinary hearing.
9.3 &nb=
sp; Acts
of serious misconduct will be investigated and interviews with possible
culprits / witnesses will be conducted confidentially. A second staff member
will be present at all interviews where disciplinary action may be
contemplated.
9.4 &nb=
sp; All
involved in acts of serious misconduct will be expected to tell the truth. =
Any
deceit will be considered an aggravating factor in determining punishment if
guilt is established.
9.5 &nb=
sp; If
the alleged offence is serious and/or guilt is not easily determined and/or=
a
suspension of more than 5 days or expulsion is contemplated, a disciplinary
hearing shall be convened to deal with the matter. The learner may be required to app=
ear
before the Disciplinary Committee.
9.5.1 The Disciplinary Commi=
ttee
shall comprise:
a) A representati=
ve
of the Dominican Order
b) The Principal<= o:p>
c) A designated
teacher
d) A member of the
community appointed by the school.
e) A lawyer if de=
emed
necessary
f) A representati=
ve
of the Board of Governors
9.5.2&nbs=
p; Pupil's
parent(s) or parent representative or guardian must be present at the
disciplinary hearing.
9.6 &nb=
sp; The
Disciplinary Committee is to make recommendations.
9.7 &nb=
sp; The
Board of Governors is to ratify decisions taken.
9.8 &nb=
sp; The
Board of Governors shall be the final point of appeal.
9.9 &nb=
sp; In
criminal matters the decision to inform the police will be taken by the
Principal in consultation with the Disciplinary Committee and the Chairpers=
on
of the Board of Governors.
9.10 &n=
bsp; Counselling and referral to relevant professionals ma=
y be
recommended.
The disciplinary proced=
ure
is based on care for the child. The good of the community must also be
considered.
10 &=
nbsp; GENERAL
10.1 Cell
phones and other electronic equipment are not allowed at school under any
circumstances. There are =
pay
phones available for urgent communication and the school office is available
for any emergencies. Any cell
phone, music player,etc.
found will be immediately confiscated and only returned to parents at
the end of the term.
10.2 Pupils
may not accept lifts to and from school or school related functions, without
permission from their parents.
10.3 The
school reserves the right to request parents to have their child tested for
substances as identified in 8.4.
10.4 Lack
of co-operation in disciplinary measures will constitute Serious Misconduct=
.
10.5 Motor
cycles and vehicles may only be used by licensed drivers and with their
parents’ permission. A =
copy
of the license is to be supplied to the school office. They may be parked in
designated areas only and are out of bounds during the school day, including
during extra murals.
11. RIGHTS and
RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS
11.1 &n=
bsp; Parents
have a right to expect a well balanced, quality education for their childre=
n.
To this end, it is expected that parents will support the school and require
their children to observe the school rules and regulations put in place to
ensure an ordered harmonious learning atmosphere conducive to personal grow=
th,
academic progress and excellence.
11.2 &n=
bsp; Parents
have a right to have their children educated free of disruptions and
disturbances. They have a responsibility to accept accountability for any <=
span
class=3DSpellE>misbehaviour on their part. The ultimate responsibili=
ty for
a pupil's behaviour rests with the parents or
guardians who need to play an important role in the progress and the discip=
line
of their child. In addition, =
it is
expected that parents will immediately inform the school of transgressions
by any pupil of which they, the parents, may be aware.
11.3 &n=
bsp; Parents
have a right to be informed of school matters and learner progress. They ha=
ve a
responsibility to ensure they receive and read school communications.
11.4 &n=
bsp; It
is expected that parents will take an active interest in their child's
schoolwork and make sure assigned work is completed.
11.5 &n=
bsp; Parents
should attend meetings convened for them.
****
ST DOMINIC’S PRIO=
RY
HIGH SCHOOL
Godlonton Avenue
Miramar
PORT ELIZABETH
6070
PO BOX 15883
EMERALD HILL
6011
Tel: 041-396 2801
Fax: 041-396 2802
Email—sdphs@prior=
y.co.za
Fee Administrator’=
;s
Office
Tel: 041-396 2819
Dominican schools aim to
provide forward looking
education of the highest=
quality
based on a tradition that goes back over eight hundred years of commitment to education.
Our schools seek to care
for the whole person in order to
develop<=
/i> in young peopl=
e
A love for learning
An enthusiasm for truth
A love for others
Respect for the culture and religious values of all
A willingness to serve in a spirit of healing and reconciliation,
fl=
owing
from an appreciation of the Word of God and a deep commitment to Christ.