Communication Charter for Parents/Guardians The Christian heritage of Barker is the inspiration for our values and purpose. We are a school that, through these values, encourages all members of our community to thrive and we aim to create an environment that ensures connectedness, a sense of belonging, engagement and positive, respectful relationships. This Community Charter has been developed to outline the responsibilities of all parents, grandparents, carers, and other visitors to the School to ensure our learning environment is collaborative, supportive, cohesive and aligns to the Barker College values.
The Role of the School Barker College is committed to working together in partnership with parents and families to create a positive environment for students, staff and the wider school community. The School is responsible for establishing and administering policies, procedures and rules which govern the operations of the School and at all times, we prioritise the wellbeing of our students and staff.
Communication and Interaction There are scheduled parent-teacher meetings (between staff and parents) throughout the year where the student’s progress can be discussed. There may be other times when a parent or a staff member requests a meeting to discuss particular issues that may arise. These communications will usually be coordinated via class teacher (Junior School) or the Head of House (Middle and Senior School). • Parents should avoid contacting a staff member on their mobile number, unless the staff member has requested this, and has the express permission of the Head. Our staff will always find time to respond to any parent’s questions or concerns regarding their son or daughter. It is important that parents and carers understand that while our staff are in class, or dealing with other matters, they may not be available to answer your emails or respond to your phone calls immediately. The School does not expect our teaching staff to respond to emails after 6.30pm or before 7am during week days, or at all over weekends (the expected response time for email communication is within 48 hours). Communications, whether verbal or in writing with members of the School community, including teachers, administration staff, other parents or students should show respect and courtesy, not be confrontational and not use immoderate language. Should there be an occasion when this protocol has not been appropriately followed, please have a discussion with your son or daughter’s class teacher (Junior School) or Head of House (Middle and Senior School).
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