Contents HISTORY OF THE HEIGHTS
2
SCHOOL PRIORITIES
2
PERSONNEL
3
HOME AND SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS
4
HOME AND SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
5
DECISION MAKING
6
GENERAL INFORMATION
6-7
MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM
9-11
STUDENT SUPPORT
11
SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS
12-15
PARENT AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
15-17
MUSIC COURSE INFORMATION
17-18
INTERNATIONALISM
19
History of The Heights School The Heights School is a large educational organisation. We deliver a range of educational programs to learners from the Pre School age of 3½ and 4 years to students in Year 12 and beyond. The school opened in 1977 as the Modbury Heights High School sharing its buildings with Pedare Primary School. The following year saw the integration of the schools into a combined campus and the first metropolitan R-12 school was established. The Middle School building was completed during 1978. A Child Parent Centre opened that year and the school became known as "The Heights CPC-12 School. A new purpose built Pre-school has been built in 2008 and the school is now formally called The Heights School P-12. Upgrade of the Front Office, Administrative Services, Resource Centre and digital classrooms are now completed. There will be further upgrade of the Junior School in Term 4 2009, and the Middle School late 2010. The school is divided into three sub-schools to effectively manage the variety of learning and social experiences of students. The school is one of three DECS Ignite focus schools for Gifted and Talented students and is part of the NEVO Alliance of schools offering a wide range of Vocational Education and Training Opportunities to students with a school based focus on Business and Automotive skills. The school also offers in partnership with the Department of Trade a YIEP program (Young Indigenous Entrepreneurial Program).
School Priorities P-12 Our priorities in 2009 have been drawn from extensive consultation with students, parents and staff in previous years, and feedback through the annual report surveys. They encompass a range of key issues which, when addressed, will assist us to better support the full range of students with their learning. Our P-12 Site Learning Plan has 3 priorities: Priority One The school will focus on teaching and learning to improve achievement for the full range of students. Priority Two The school will improve staff and student well being. Priority Three The school will work in collaboration with its community to improve the school grounds and facilities.
Middle School Priorities Our Middle School Site Learning Plan has two priorities including: Priority One Improve student learning in the Middle School in partnership with parents and the community by supporting the development and implementation of curriculum and pedagogy that meets the contemporary needs of young adolescents. • • • • •
Work towards implementing a common and agreed approach to Middle Schooling Increase student learning about and in the community Increase parent/caregiver involvement in their children’s schooling Explore strategies in addition to acceleration that meet the needs of the full range of gifted students Develop a community involvement project as part of the year 8 Pastoral Care program
Priority Two Improve student well being through focussing on increasing student’s social and emotional competencies and increasing student engagement in & connectedness to The Heights School. • • •
Increase parent/caregiver involvement in their children’s schooling Increase parent and student connectedness to The Heights School Develop a well being program for Ignite students 2
Personnel The Heights School has three sub-schools composed of: Junior School Middle School Senior School
Preschool- Year 6 students Year 6/7, 8 & 9 students Year 10, 11 & 12 students
Leadership in 2010 includes: Whole School
Helen Calvert Marg Thomas
Principal (P-12) Principal Secretary
Middle School
Sherlayn Oakey Rob Perkins
Deputy Principal (Middle School & Ignite) Assistant Principal (Middle School)
Michelle Crush
Middle School Secretary
Vic Dybala Anne Ryan Alex Christodolou
Year 6/7 Year Level Team Leader Year 8 Year Level Team Leader & Time Out Room Coordinator Year 9 Year Level Team Leader
Lesley Diack Brian Harris
Student Counsellor Student Counsellor
Algis Laurinaitis Lyn Finlay Chris Blansjaar Steve Sakovits Arthur Roubanis Nick Pizimolas Michael Hillier
Arts Coordinator English, ESL & LOTE Coordinator Health & Physical Education Coordinator Maths Coordinator Science and Student Voice Coordinator Studies of Society & Environment Coordinator Technology Coordinator
Andrew Costello
Cricket & Sports Coordinator
Phil Rice Lym Baddams
IT Technician IT Technician
Lyn Albury Leonie Hewson Jason Lippett
Parent Community Liaison Officer Aboriginal Community Education Officer Christian Pastoral Support Worker
Junior School
Alison Denee Katrina Meatheringham Jill Gurner Cindy Tucker
Deputy Principal (Junior School) Assistant Principal (Learning Support) Early Years Coodinator Junior School Secretary
Senior School
Kris Nielsen
Deputy Principal (Senior School & Teaching & Learning) Assistant Principal (Senior School & Parent Participation Coordinator) Senior School Secretary
Michail Darley Kathy Kemp
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Home and School Partnerships The Heights School aims to provide an environment which fosters respect for self, others and the environment and which prepares students for a changing world. Students, teachers, parents and caregivers make up the school community, with the partnership of educating the students being shared by parents and caregivers and teachers. Within this community it is therefore assumed that all conversations and communication will be based on mutual respect. They will take into consideration the long-term well being of the student. It is crucial that parents, caregivers and teachers are able to model respectful relationships through calm discussion and resolution of the difficulties. Home group teachers are the first point of contact between home and school. While there are regular opportunities for communication between parents, caregivers and teachers, from time to time there will need to be other avenues for discussion. •
Home Group teachers are available through mutually convenient appointment times and phone conversations
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In addition, parent, caregiver and teacher interviews are held at times during the year.
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Opportunities for informal discussion occur at various parent forums
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Unexplained student absence is messaged to parent mobile phones by 11.00am each day
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Students must bring notes in diaries to explain lateness and all absences
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Parents and caregivers with questions about classroom teaching and learning matters should initially address their concerns to the relevant teacher. Parents may be directed to the relevant Curriculum Coordinator or Middle School Assistant or Deputy Principal
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Parents/caregivers with questions about welfare matters should address their concerns to the relevant Home Group teacher.
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Matters of concern about student management and harassment issues should be addressed to the home group teacher in the first instance and will be followed up. All concerns should be raised by the student to their home group teacher whenever possible.
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Contact with the Student Counsellor may be initiated by a telephone call. Student Counsellors will return phone calls and may direct your enquiry to the most relevant staff member.
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If there is a death, serious illness or other very serious matter in the family, it is important to discuss this with the home group teacher who will ensure that all relevant staff are informed and the school is able to meet all the needs of the student and family in the most appropriate way.
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From time to time, parents and caregivers have a very serious concern or grievance. In these instances, these should be made via a phone call, email or in writing to the Deputy Principal (Middle School).
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If you wish to speak with someone at the school please contact the front office to leave a message. We will make every effort to return your call within 24 hours. We will work together in respectful ways to ensure the satisfaction and well being of members of our school community. The Community Liaison Coordinator can be contacted on 0488027346.
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Home and School Communication We believe that education is a shared responsibility between home and school. Therefore open communication between parents, students and teachers is essential in order to develop a meaningful partnership. Parents are encouraged to ring the school at any time to discuss matters relating to their child’s educational progress. The Homegroup teacher is the first point of contact.
Newsletters Informative whole school newsletters are sent home regularly during each term with the youngest family member and are posted on the school website. They contain news of the latest happenings within the school, notices about future events, items of special interest and community news.
Student Reports Student reports are sent home via students at the end of the term: Term 1 Written term summary report years 6/7, 8 & 9 Parent/Student/Teacher interviews Term 2 Written semester descriptive report years 8 & 9 (term or semester reports for some practical subject areas) Student led conferences (semester) year 6/7 Term 3 Written term summary report years 6/7, 8 & 9 (term or semester reports for some practical subject areas) Term 4 Written year descriptive reports years 6/7, 8 & 9 (term or semester reports for some practical subject areas) Student led conferences (year) years 6/7 Round Table Assessments (year) year 9
Diaries All students are issued with a diary at the beginning of the school year. In the event of a student losing their diary another will be issued to the student and parents/caregivers will be invoiced for $10.00 to cover the cost. Students are required to have a diary at all times. Student diaries include a section where students should write a record of the work they have done that day to share with parents., Homework details should be entered during each lesson as appropriate and there is also space which may be used to write notes re interviews, a reminder of things to be brought to school etc. Students are expected to have their diaries signed by a parent/caregiver at the end of each week. Parents are encouraged to communicate with the school using their child’s diary. Often students will be expected to return a note signed by parent/caregiver advising the school that they have received notices or circulars.
Student and parent information and contact details Confidential student information for each child is kept at school. This includes details of home address, mobile and landline telephone contact details. Student information must be kept up-to-date at all times. It is very important that this information is kept up to date to ensure the safety and well being of all students. Parents are asked to inform the school as soon as there is a change to these details, especially mobile phone numbers as we use SMS messaging for communicating absenteeism in the Middle School.
Circulars Circulars on specific matters are also sent home. We require parents to respond promptly on a tear-off slip or note with a signature in the student diary to indicate that the circular has been received. The home group teacher will indicate to students how they are expected to report back that their parents have received the information.
Year Book A school Year Book is produced by students and published at the end of each year to showcase the year's activities. The cost (approximately $27) is invoiced at the beginning of the year to parents along with the materials and services charge.
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Decision Making Our school has a school decision making policy based on a participatory model with consultation occurring at many levels. Views of a sub school are taken by Sub School Leaders or committee representatives to other decision making forums. A number of Standing Committees exist. These include: Governing Council: • • • • •
Finance Advisory Committee Monitoring and Review Uniform Canteen Grounds and Facilities Committee
Parents & Community: • •
Parent Club Parent Forum
Students: • • • • •
Junior School Student Representative Council Middle School Student Representative Council Senior School Student Representative Council Senior School Formal Committee Observatory Committee
Staff: • • • • • • •
Curriculum Leaders Occupational, Health, Safety & Welfare Committee Fundraising Timetabling Publicity & Enrolment Round Table Assessment Cricket Program
Committees are formed from time to time for specific purposes (eg Capital Works). Staff, students and parents participate in the consultation processes and are represented on various groups. Parents form an important part of the participative decision making process and sit on many of the committees. As parents you are warmly invited to increase your participation in the decision making process, through sub-committees of the Governing School Council. The Parent Liaison Coordinator Lyn Albury, is available to support parents who wish to become more actively involved in our school community.
General Information 2010 TERM DATES First Term Second Term Third Term Fourth Term
27 January – 1 April 19 April - 2 July 19 July – 24 September 11 October – 10 December
(10 Weeks) (11 Weeks) (10 Weeks) (9 Weeks)
The school will have two (2) student free days. These are usually on the first day of term 2 & 3 where staff engage in professional learning activities and students do not attend school. A Governing Council school closure day is usually held during Show week. These dates will be confirmed during the year and will appear in the school newsletter that goes home via students and on the school website.
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The School Day for Middle School Students Middle School (Years 6/7 – 9) start lessons at 8:45am and operate mainly on 50 minute lessons. Lessons will be 45 minutes on Wednesday’s in 2010 to allow for an additional 40 minute Long Home Group Pastoral Care lesson. Lesson times Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
8:45am – 9.00am 9:00am – 9.50am 9.50am – 10.40am 10:40am 11:00am – 11.50 11:50am – 12.40 12:40pm 1:10pm – 1.20pm 1:20pm – 2.10pm 2:10pm – 3.00pm
Home Group Lesson 1a Lesson 1b Recess Lesson 2a Lesson 2b Lunch Home Group Lesson 3 Lesson 4
Lesson times Wednesday
8.45am – 9.00am 9.00am – 9.45am 9.45am – 10.30am 10.30am 10.50am – 11.35am 11.35am – 12.20pm 12.20pm – 1.00pm 1.00pm Lunch 1.30pm – 2.15pm 2.15pm – 3.00pm
Home Group Lesson 1a Lesson 1b Recess Lesson 2a Lesson 2b Long Home Group Lesson 3 Lesson 4
There are no special early dismissal arrangements due to exceptionally hot weather as our school is fully air-conditioned. Dismissal however on the last day of term is usually 2.00pm and parents/caregivers are notified via the school newsletter and the school web site. On days when the weather is inclement (eg raining, severe winds) students are supervised inside buildings or under sheltered areas in the Middle School. Year 6/7 and 8 students return to school on Wednesday 27 January 2010. We will be running a special introductory program on that day for Year 8 students. Year 9 students return to school on Thursday 28 January 2010.
Stationery Issue Students will require stationery items as per a list issued to families, for the subjects they are studying. Please make sure names are clearly marked on all possessions. Students are expected to bring all necessary books and equipment every day to school.
Class Allocations Students will be allocated to classes taking into consideration information from previous teachers and parents/caregiver requests as well as special program groupings and class numbers. We have endeavoured to take account of parent requests and to cluster students for academic and friendship support where possible. Class lists with the name of the home group teacher and room allocation will be displayed on the Middle School building windows (eastern side) from 8:00am on the first day of term. When the bell rings at 8:45 students are to move to their home group rooms. Maps will help new students to their classes. Staff will help direct new students and other people.
Swimming Middle School Swimming & Splash Carnival will be held early in term 1 for all year 6/7, 8 and 9 students.
Sports Day SAPSASA District Sports Day, SASSA and Vista competitions provide an opportunity for students to physically extend themselves and compete in track and field events. Sports Day is usually held in first term.
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Assemblies Assemblies in Middle School are held twice each term usually during week 3 and week 9 and acknowledge excellence amongst the student body. Celebration of Success is the end of year annual awards ceremony for the middle and senior school.
Middle School Awards The criteria for these awards are: Outstanding Academic Achievement 7 or more A’s Academic Achievement All B’s as a minimum up to 6 A’s Perfect Attendance No absenteeism for the assessment period and no consistent lateness Community Service Crossing duty, Open Night etc Different Awards will be bundled together for individual students to save time at assembly.
School Fees Information about school fees will be mailed to families early in 2010. Parents whose children are approved by the Department for Education & Children’s Services as School Card recipients in 2010 will have their School Fees subsidised. Parents are encouraged to pay any differences between the school fee and School Card allowance. Parents must apply EACH YEAR for approval; applications will be available at the school. Please direct enquiries to the Finance Office.
Safety A security fence has been erected around the school buildings. Access via the gates will be from 7:30am until 5:15pm daily. All gates will be locked by 5:30pm each day. It is recommended for the “safety of your children” that the car parks NOT be used as drop off zones. There is a drop-off zone at the front of the school on Brunel Drive for dropping off and collecting children. Students are not to enter the school grounds before 8.30am without special arrangements in exceptional circumstances as staff are not timetabled for yard duty before that time.
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Middle School Curriculum Our aim at The Heights School is to support every student to achieve his/her best, to understand how they learn and have confidence in their capacity to learn. During their time at school they will be supported to reach their own potential and understand the factors that support themselves and others to grow and develop. They will also explore issues that may limit or constrain their learning or that of others. We aim to support students to contribute to the development of a more fair and just society. The Middle School is organised to best support the learning of young adolescents. Relationships are so important to students of this age and the structure of the school supports the development of strong student/teacher relationships. Most students see some of their teachers for more than one subject. Home groups are small and support the development of strong communication between the school and home. Pastoral care aims at “connecting” students to the school emotionally as well as practically. There is a strong extra curricula program to support the formal learning program. Year 6/7 curriculum pattern and lesson allocation Number of lessons per week
Subject (s)
6 5 2 3 4 2 2 2 1 2 1
English Maths Science S&E HPE Arts Tech LOTE Daily physical activity Year 6/7 certificate Assembly/PC
Further detail
Indonesian 1 lesson choir 40 minute lesson on Wednesdays (other lessons shortened by 5 mins & no homegroup or yard clean up on that day)
Year 8 curriculum pattern and lesson allocation Number of lessons per week
Subject (s)
4 4 4
English Maths Science
4
S&E
3
HPE
4
Arts
3
Tech
4
LOTE
1
Assembly/PC
Further detail
1 semester health & home economics and 1 semester of health and PE 4 rotations – visual art, drama, music & multi-media Rotations of woodwork, metalwork, CAD & electronics
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Year 9 curriculum pattern and subject allocation Number of lessons per week
Subject (s)
Further detail
4 4 4 4 4
English Maths Science S&E HPE
2 lessons of Home Ec & 2 lessons of PE
3*
Arts
4
Tech
3
LOTE
1
Assembly/PC
4 rotations – visual art, drama, music & multi-media Rotations of woodwork, metalwork, CAD, photography & electronics Currently compulsory for all students to study Indonesian
The Ignite Program The Heights School is one of three government schools that offer The Ignite Program. This program caters for the needs of gifted and talented students as they enter year 8. To gain entry to the program students in year 6 or 7 must sit a test provided by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). Successful students are interviewed and then placed into one of three classes. Entry to the program is also possible through parent / teacher recommendation. The Ignite Accelerated class provides subject acceleration in all areas. Students complete years 8 and 9 in one year in the middle school and move into year 10 in the senior school the following year. The Ignite Extended class provides students with enrichment and extension opportunities including SACE units as part of a two year program in the middle school. The Ignite High Potential (HIP) class provides students with enrichment and extension opportunities. Students stay together as a class in year 8 and 9 in the middle school and stay together as a home group as they move through the senior school. All students in these classes remain together as class groups as they progress through the middle school. Research indicates strongly that gifted and talented students have their social and emotional needs better met when they are grouped together. Students from all three classes will be mixed together for their practical subjects in year 8.
Specialist Cricket Program This course is offered to provide the opportunity for students to participate in a high level program above the standard traditionally offered in a physical education class. Students maximise their development through expert coaching and training within the school curriculum. The program is aimed at students who demonstrate a commitment to cricket who wish to spend further time in development and aim to compete at a higher level than that of the average student. Two classes are offered in 2009 including a combined year 7 and year 8 class, and a combined year 9 and year 10 class. Special entry to the school and the program is via written application and referee statements from teachers and relevant coaches and a practical entry test. Students can enter the program at year 7, 8, 9 and 10 level. Students in the program lead an annual Harmony Day cricket event where all junior school students play cricket as well as year level teams. A staff and student cricket match is the highlight of the fundraising event. Funds raised during the day contribute towards student costs of an annual exchange to Mount Gambier High School.
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Selection criteria for entry to the Specialist Cricket Program includes: A positive sporting attitude A positive attitude towards school and study A history of high standard of good behaviour, attendance and social skills Potential for high level of ability/performance indicated through skills testing and interview A high level of coachability A documented high level of interest/ability/performance Andrew Costello is the Specialist Cricket Coordinator. Andrew is also the SACA State under 17 Women’s Cricket coach.
Extra Curricular Activities Activity Chess Debating Internationalism program Kitchen Garden Observatory Pedal Prix Sport (interschool, knockout & SAPSASA) Wakakirri & middle school performance
Contact person Peter Bastian Julie Tetlow Brian Harris Nick Pizimolas Arthur Roubanis Roger Button Andrew Costello Penny Phillips
Homework Homework may be set for students in the Middle School. Students are required to enter homework in their diary. Year 6/7, 8 and 9 student should fill in their diary each day including work they have done in each lesson. Homework time in the main should be used to complete unfinished work, redraft work to the highest standard possible and to complete research and special assignments in the Middle School. Parents are requested to read students diaries or contact homegroup teachers if they have concerns about homework. Parents should direct students to reading activities when they consider their child requires additional homework to support their preparation for effective study habits for future senior schooling.
Student Support Camps & Excursions During the year, students in year 6/7 attend a 3-day aquatics camp. All students should participate as the camp is one aspect of the Year 6/7 focus on Outdoor Education. Year 8’s participate annually in an Aquatics Day at Port Noarlunga at a low cost to the student. The day is a part of the school program and all students are expected to participate. SRC students participate in a camp at Wellington each year. Excursions are held regularly as part of the middle school curriculum and pastoral care program. Students will be issued with information and consent forms and expected to pay any fees at the Finance Office prior to the excursion. School Card holders are able to request a subsidy by contacting the Middle School Deputy Principal.
Student Representative Council The main task is to act as the focal point for the expression of students' wants needs and opinions in relation to the learning environment and to set up structures for acting on those needs. It also raises funds to support various charitable organisations and school based activities. Representatives to the Governing School Council and other decision-making committees in the school come from members of the Student Representative Council. The SRC consist of two students elected from each year 6/7, 8 and 9 home groups. Mr Arthur Roubanis manages the Middle School SRC process.
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Christian Pastoral Support Worker The Heights School has the services of a 15 hours per week School Chaplain. The Chaplain is a member of the Middle School Management Group along with the Year level Team Leaders and Student Counsellors and assists in the provision of services to student and families. The Chaplain has a pastoral role in counselling and referring students as required to other members of the Middle School team. The Chaplain also acts as an additional staff resource. The appointment is sponsored by the Heads of Churches Schools Ministry Group and was approved by School Governing Council.
Aboriginal Student and Parent Support This group meets regularly over the school year to plan and support the students academically and to engage in a culturally rich program. The Group links with indigenous agencies within the community and across the state. The school has a strong Aboriginal Education Program. Enquiries to: Sheralyn Oakey Principal Lee Gordon Aboriginal Education Teacher Leonie Hewson Aboriginal Community Education Coordinator
Supervision of Students The teaching staff of The Heights School have the welfare of all children as their main concern. In discharging their legal responsibilities to students it is necessary to specify certain conditions under which the school considers itself not accountable for the actions of students. While all reasonable care will be exercised, no legal responsibility will be accepted for students outside of the following: • • •
On school premises on normal school days, between the hours of 8:30am and 3:15pm. Out of School Hours Care is available 7 – 9am and 3.00 – 6:15pm daily. At official school functions, school sporting events and all school trips and excursions.
Parents are strongly encouraged to insure their children against accident or injury using 24-hour accident policies offered by various organisations through the school from time to time. Telephone the school on 8263 6244 for details.
School Expectations The school has a comprehensive set of common sense rules to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all the students in our care and the security of personal property. School rules are part of our comprehensive student behaviour management policy and are linked to logical consequences. This list of rules applies to all students while at school, on excursions, camps and other school events. Rules applying to particular year levels or groups are issued separately. Once at school, no student may leave the grounds prior to dismissal time without first obtaining the school's permission. Students should show a written note from a parent/caregiver requesting the student to leave the school, to their homegroup teacher in the morning. For safety purposes students must sign out before leaving in the Middle School. Rough, aggressive and anti-social behaviour such as fighting, bullying and harassment, bad language, throwing objects and spitting is prohibited and is likely to result in detentions to be completed in the time out room. Parents/caregivers will receive written notification of any detentions via the mail prior to the scheduling of the detention. Inappropriate behaviour may also result in external suspension. Continued unacceptable behaviour may in some circumstances result in exclusion from school for a period of up to ten weeks. •
Each sub-school has designated recreation and play areas. This information is made clear to all Middle School students.
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Access to the canteen for Middle School students is the northern doors.
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Middle School students are required to use the Middle School toilets reserved for them only
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A toilet for the disabled is located in the Middle School toilets. 12
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Students are responsible for placing litter in bins provided. All students are responsible for cleaning up their own rubbish and are expected to willingly participate in yard clean up duties along with all other students. Some students on occasion may be expected to participate in Community Service activities as a consequence of irresponsible behaviour. The chewing of gum at school is not permitted.
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Rough games/water fights are considered dangerous and are not permitted. Games and activities using hard balls may be played only under the supervision of a teacher.
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To ensure adequate supervision of students the following areas are out-of-bounds to students: All car parks, the south-eastern part of the Senior School playing fields and where the ground slopes away, the areas north of 'D' block and the northern car parks, the north-west corner of the school and the south-west corner of the school.
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Bicycles may be ridden along the driveway coming off Augustus Street. In all other parts of the school, bicycles should be walked. The normal road rules apply to cyclists at school. A bike cage is available for students to park their bikes in the Middle School.
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Classrooms and buildings should only be occupied by students during lesson breaks, before and after school if a teacher is present.
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Damage to school property resulting from carelessness or misbehaviour must be reported. Students and parents may be required to pay for damages or help with repairs. Students are expected to respect all school and personal property.
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Smoking and drug taking are banned, as is possession of all related items (eg lighter, matches) and will be confiscated. The school has a Drug Policy available at the Front Office or on the schools website. Failure to observe the policy is likely to result in Police involvement, external suspension or exclusion from school for up to 10 weeks.
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Objects which are dangerous to others, eg pocket knives, projectiles, etc will be confiscated and may also involve the Police.
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MP3 players and electronic games/devices are bought to school at the students own risk. They must not be used in the class without teacher consent. Students may have these items confiscated for the day is they do not follow teacher instruction.
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Students should not bring “valuables” to school - eg Basketball cards or large sums of money. All personal items (eg calculators) should have their name engraved clearly.
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Mobile phones may be brought to school but must be switched off during lesson-time. Recording of sound or photographic images of teachers or students without consent is illegal and will involve the Police. Students who keep their phone on during lessons or use it inappropriately will have it confiscated and returned after any necessary investigation in line with DECS policy.
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Student Behaviour Student Behaviour Management at The Heights is closely linked with the aims and expectations of the school. Our school is a community and students have to learn to work and to play within groups with a range of different people. Discipline is based on the positive reinforcement and encouragement of acceptable behaviour and adequate counselling and logical consequences for inappropriate behaviour. Students may be removed from class and sent to the Time Out Room for the remainder of a lesson if they interrupt the learning of others or fail to follow school policy. Students sent to time out will be expected to undertake detentions and a consequence. This will be communicated to parents/caregivers via the mail before the detention is scheduled. Students are expected to work while in the time out room and are not able to just sit there. At times students will be expected to undertake community service as part of their duties in the time out room. This may include cleaning up rubbish in the school yard. Parents will be informed if there are discipline concerns relating to their children. They will be invited to join with the school to bring about a satisfactory resolution of inappropriate behaviour. Students may be suspended internally for specific periods of time or externally from the school if warranted. This will depend on the nature and extent of the inappropriate behaviour. Parents or an adult nominee of their choice must attend a teacher, student and parent meeting at the school prior to any student returning to classes from external suspension. Students will remain in the time out room until such a meeting can occur in line with DECS policy. The school, and in particular, the teachers who work with your child ask you to keep them informed via the homegroup teacher about things that happen outside the school that may have a bearing on their behaviour.
School Uniform The Heights School has an enforceable full uniform policy for all students P-12. The Governing Council has determined the uniform policy with support from the uniform committee. The Uniform Subcommittee of the Governing Council is the policy-making body and has representatives from parents, students and staff. The decision to have a school uniform and to expect all to comply was made by the elected School Governing Council. In the Middle School students are expected to wear full school uniform every day. Students are not able to wear clothing with any logo other than The Heights School logo. T-shirts and scarves worn for warmth or for skin condition related reasons must be in the school colours of navy blue, burgundy or white. T-shirts or sleeveless girl’s tops that hang down below school jumpers or school polo shirts are not able to be worn. During winter students are able to wear coats for example parker or woollen coat in navy blue, burgundy or white before and after school and during recess and lunch, but not during lesson time as classrooms are heated. Coats however cannot be worn instead of the school jumper. Students should not wear a school jumper without wearing the school polo shirt underneath. All students are reminded of the need to ensure modesty of dress and demeanour such as would be expected at any worksite. Both girls and boys should ensure that shorts that are worn to school are mid to lower thigh to knee length. All school uniform should be neat, in good repair and clean. Students are able to wear jewellery that is considered safe and does not overtly standout. Large earrings or other forms of ornamentation or makeup that is more suitable for out of school social gatherings is discouraged and it is likely that students will be expected to remove it at the request of the Middle School Team. School uniform is available from the school uniform shop. Parents/caregivers are able to negotiate payment for uniform with the school or for their student to be given uniform and then invoiced. Students will be expected to change into second hand school uniform if they refuse to wear appropriate uniform to school. Students may also be given detentions to be completed at lunchtimes or after school if they continue to refuse to wear the approved school uniform. The Middle School team understands that parents/caregivers often find it challenging to ensure that their student is in full school uniform but expect parents/caregivers to support school processes to support the wearing of full school uniform by all Middle School students. There will be rare occasions when a student is not in uniform and parents/caregivers should ensure that a student has a written note that includes an indication of when the student will be in uniform.
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Sick Room Procedures School Services Officers and staff are on duty in the school to deal with accidents and any other emergency first aid issues which may arise. It is most important that the student medical form is completed and that we have supplies of medication supplied for children needing emergency treatment eg. bee stings, ventolin, etc. Students who are sick and unable to manage the day at school should not be sent to school. We are only able to deal with emergencies that arise at school. Parents or caregivers will be asked to collect students from the sick room located in the Resource Centre who present as unwell during the day. Students should not ring parents on their mobile phones direct to request to go home but rather should follow the school procedures and report to the front office. The school will phone the parent/caregiver or emergency contact to ensure that permission is given for the student to be collected or to travel home.
Student Transport Bicycles The school has a bicycle cage for middle school students which is locked during the school day. Students moving to and from these areas must walk their bikes except on a paved roadway leading in or out of the school.
School and Trans Adelaide Buses There are several services which are convenient for students of our school. School bus E service travels directly between Surrey Downs, Ridgehaven and The Heights School. (Afternoon pickup only) School Bus O service travels as far as the Elizabeth East shopping centre on a route taking in Yorketown Rd, Bridge Rd and Nelson Road. The 544 travels down Ladywood Road to the Modbury Interchange at Tea Tree Plaza. The 209 services students from the Ingle Farm area. Bus timetables and details are available from the school and Trans Adelaide. All public bus enquiries can be made by telephoning The Infoline for the Public Transport Board on 8210 1000. www.adelaidemetro.com.au
www.southlink.com.au
Parent Involvement Parents are a most important part of our school. A Community Liaison Officer has been appointed to liaise with the community. Her major focus is to consolidate and expand parental involvement initiatives. Dear Parents and Caregivers, As Community Liaison Officer, I welcome you as a family to our school Some of the ways in which I can assist you are • Providing information on the school and the local area • Discussing options on school related issues • Assisting with communication • Coordination and training of volunteers • Encouraging volunteer involvement and participation • Promoting school activities • School tours for new families
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Volunteering is a very important aspect of our school community, from helping in the classroom to working on committees; assistance on a casual or regular basis is appreciated by the students, staff and other parents. Support for volunteers is always available through workshops or talking with me or others already involved. We want our volunteers to feel comfortable in any area in which they may choose to help. Our Parent Room located in B Block opposite the canteen, is available to have a drink and catch up with other volunteers. Entrance to the Parent Room is via the courtyard. I work closely with Governing Council, Parent Club and many other committees, we always welcome new members and ideas. A Calendar of Events and all important dates are available on our Website. Copies can be obtained from the Front Office. To be of assistance to our parent and caregivers we have “Parenting SA” leaflets as well as brochures and books available for loan on display in my office. Please let me know if you would like copies of any of the many topics available. Please consider becoming a volunteer at The Heights. We would love to have you as part of our volunteer team, and there are lots of areas in which you can help. If you are unable to be part of our volunteer program at the moment, we understand, but should your circumstances change and you are able to help, please feel free to contact me at any time. I look forward to working with you all throughout the year. If I can be of assistance to you or you would like to assist the school anytime during the year, please feel free to drop into the Parent Room or contact me via the Front Office. Lyn Albury Community Liaison Officer There are many benefits for volunteers. These include the opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends and gain personal satisfaction from helping students achieve success. Volunteers will be offered an induction process and opportunities for further training as required for their role. A record of achievements can be prepared, if requested. This information could be of value for other voluntary or paid positions you may pursue. Some of the programs you can be involved in include:
Governing Council This is a group of parents and staff who are elected annually at the Annual General Meeting. The Council, together with student and staff representatives and the Principal, meet twice a term. The Council's function is to exercise, on behalf of the parent community, an oversight of the well being of the school. The roles and duties are clearly defined by regulation. They have a responsibility to discharge those duties effectively. The Council is the representative body of the parent community of the school. As increased management responsibility for school matters is transferred to the school, the Governing Council will play an increasingly important role. The Council supports an active sub-committee structure including: • • • • • • •
Monitoring & Review Uniform Grounds Finance OHSC (Out of School Hours Care) School Forums Fundraising.
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Parent Group Aim To develop and maintain an interest among parents/caregivers in the welfare of their children and the staff at The Heights School. We welcome new families and maintain an ongoing friendship base and social community for all families within our school. Activities Support student learning and class activities such as the Friendship Garden through fundraising within the school. • Represent the parent community on various committees within the school. • Organise parent functions such as luncheons and guest speakers. • Catering for events within the school, such as sausage sizzles. The Heights School Parent Club meets twice a Term. Meetings are advertised in the School Newsletter and on the Website. Please come along, you will be made to feel most welcome.
Sport Assistance Without the generous assistance of many parents the number of sporting teams able to take part in regular competition would be severely restricted. Parents/caregivers help with: • Coaching • Transportation • Umpiring • Scoring Our parents and caregivers support their children in their chosen sport: • Teeball • Baseball • Football • Netball • Basketball • Cricket • SAPSASA Sports (Yr 5-7) • Vista Sport (Yr 8-13)
Resource Centre Assistance Help is always appreciated by the staff of the library/resource centre where parents assist with book maintenance, borrowing and general procedures. The covering of new books used in classrooms is a task undertaken by groups of parents each term.
Music Course Information Music Programme The music program at the Heights aims to develop an awareness in students of the significant part music plays in our lives as individuals and in the wider community. Music students cover the following three strands of the SACSA Arts Curriculum Statement Creating, Making and Presenting, Arts analysis and response, Arts in context. The Music programme also aims to offer its students courses, which provide a balance between music education in its broadest sense and music performance,
MIDDLE SCHOOL In year 6/7 Music is offered as an integral part of the general Arts curriculum with an emphasis on Choral development which in turn also leads to the participation in the South Australian Public Schools Festival of Music. Each year the school prepares a “Festival Choir” for this high profile event, which is a series of concerts held at the Festival Theatre. Students from years 6-7 are selected to join our choir which rehearses once a week.
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Through this programme there are wonderful opportunities for students to learn to sing. The songs selected cover a broad spectrum of styles and arrangements from rap to opera and a few involve choreography. Although the Choir is hard work it is fun with rewarding results when we perform in front of an audience. We also showcase our talents at assemblies and look for opportunities to sing to the school community and beyond. The study of music is compulsory at Year 8 and 9 as part of the rich and diverse Arts education which has been carefully nurtured as an integral part of the general curriculum offering. These courses can lead to Elective Music which is offered to students at year 10 – which in turn can lead to SACE Stage One (Year 11) and SACE Stage Two (Year 12) Music.
INSTRUMENTAL TUITION The study of a musical instrument is compulsory for students who wish to study music at year 10. It is advisable that students who have an interest in music to start learning an instrument as early as practicable Students may choose to learn an instrument through the school or alternatively they may seek private tuition. If learning through the school students attend a group instrumental lesson for 30 minutes each week. This lesson time is in addition to the classroom music allocation. Although every effort is made to place students in the instrumental class of their choice, this is not always possible due to class sizes and availability of instruments. For this reason some students may prefer to organise their own private instrumental lessons. Students must be in Year 5 or higher (except violin - year 3) to start learning an Instrument through the programme (There is no cost for DECS Tuition). Students must hire or own the appropriate instrument (the school has some instruments for hire @ $40 per term) as well as commit to 30 minutes daily practise.
DECS Instruments being offered at the Heights • • • • • • •
Classical Guitar Bass Guitar General Percussion (includes Drum Kit) Violin/Viola Clarinet/Saxophone/Flute (Woodwind) Trumpet/Trombone (Brass) Vocal
Private Tuition • •
Modern Guitar Keyboard
Lessons for private tuition are usually in small groups. Payment is made directly to the teacher - NOT THROUGH THE SCHOOL. Tutor books if required are available through the teacher, and diaries about $3.00 (available from the Uniform Shop). All instrumental students will be required to pay an administration fee of $10 per term directly to the school. This fee is to cover the costs of administering the program, including the hiring of administration staff. Parents will be invoiced by the school for the amount at the end of each term. Beginning a program such as this requires dedication and commitment. There is a minimum hire period of four months for instruments. Each student will be required to attend his or her lesson each week and practice regularly. This is an excellent opportunity for all students to learn a musical instrument.
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Internationalism Program Homestay Program The Homestay Program brings home the world to South Australian families that join this exciting global experience of hosting an international student in their homes. For many international students, their Homestay experience is one of the highlights of studying in Australia. Having an international student to stay in your home will open up a world of social and cultural experiences for your family. It provides the perfect opportunity to: • Find out about the customs and traditions of another culture; • Prepare authentic meals of another culture; • Learn another language for interest or future travel; • Develop a lasting friendship with your student and their family overseas, to travel and meet other host families. As part of our commitment to building international connections The Heights School often hosts student and teacher groups from overseas. In doing this there are many benefits that the school and the community can gain from such visits.
Accreditation We are now accredited to attract full year students who will undertake SACE studies and/or school based programs.
Educational Benefits P-12: • • • •
Encourages high levels of enrolment at Junior, Middle and Senior School levels; International students of all ages offer valuable peer input in all areas of learning and study; Improved learning outcomes for students at all year levels; Increased subject choices for secondary students leading to more Year 11 and 12 classes operating.
Financial Benefits P-12: • • • •
Additional income for Home Stay families; Increased funding for the school’s general curriculum, leading to increased annual budgets for the learning needs of all students; Employment opportunities for parents, teachers and SSOs; Increased financial benefits to the local community in terms of International students’ expenditure on clothes, entertainment, transport, phones, etc.
Social Benefits P-12: • • • • •
Leads to a deeper understanding of people from different backgrounds and cultures; Encourages acceptance and tolerance; Enriches family life; Expands social skills and way of thinking; Leads to lifelong friendships between people
Exchange Program • • •
Exchanges to Singapore, Japan, Malaysia (links to Indonesian language taught at school), Thailand and Hong Kong. Some subsidy is provided towards airfares. Students from Home Stay families get first option to be part of an exchange as well as students in the ignite program.
The program is supported by a staff and parent committee and an Internationalism coordinator.
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