Code of Behaviour (Summary)

School Attendance

  1. Attend school regularly and be punctual to class.
  2. Catch up on work if absent.
  3. Be on time for all classes and do not cause disruption to others.If late bring a note.
  4. If leaving early you must be signed out by a parent.
  5. If late for school you must get signed in at main office.

 

Respect

  1. All members of the school community must show respect for self, other people,the property of other people and the environment.
  2. The aim is to create a positive environment and develop a spirit of community and togetherness.
  3. Mobile phones and other electronic media devices are not allowed during the school day and will be confiscated.
  4. Smoking is prohibited.
  5. All addictive substances are strictly banned.
  6. Bullying is strictly forbidden.
  7. Keep the school tidy and litter free.
  8. Students representing the school are required to be on their best behaviour to keep up the school’s good reputation.
  9. All school rules apply when on trips etc. and directions must be taken from persons in charge.

 

Respect/General Behaviour

  1. Walk in single file on the right hand side.
  2. No fighting, bad language, inappropriate comments or rough behaviour.
  3. Stay at the back/rear of the school and do not go out of bounds.

 

Dress, Appearance and Property
  1. All students must wear the correct uniform and be neat and tidy at all times.
  2. Hair should be neat and tidy, within natural colour range.

 

 

Discipline Structures/Sanctions

  1. Teacher is responsible for discipline in his/her own classroom.
  2. Class Tutor has responsibility for his/her class group.
  3. Year Head has overall responsibility for all students in year group.
  4. Principal and Deputy Principal deal with serious misbehavioural problems. Procedure for dealing with discipline include meeting with student, extra work, on report, Lunchtime Detention, Friday Detention, call to parents,referral to Discipline Committee (Tutor and Year Head) or referral to Principal/ Deputy Principal

 

 

Homework

  1. Write your homework into your homework journal at the end of every class.
  2. Homework must be completed to the best of your ability

 

 

This is an abbreviated / shortened version of the Code of Behaviour.
All students, where possible, should read the full, unabbreviated version of the Code. (Which can be seen below)

Code of Behaviour

Mission Statement

Heywood Community School provides an education setting in which the person is encouraged to grow at every level – personally, academically, spiritually, socially and culturally.

Ethos Statement

In fulfilling its mission the school nurtures and affirms the uniqueness and full development of each individual.  It promotes the personal and emotional development of students, staff and management in a caring and respectful environment.  The school ethos respects the dignity of each person by listening to their views and encouraging them to question and search for meaning.

Mindful of our role in the education of young people the school endeavours to provide a learning and teaching environment that encourages students to give due importance to their studies and promotes educational excellence.  Day to day classroom work is enhanced by field studies, projects and scheduled professional direction on study methods and examination techniques.

The ethos seeks also to awaken spirituality in all members of the school community. It strives to establish the school as a witness to the reign of God and the gospel values and will nurture the Christian faith through RE classes, annual retreats and through providing opportunities for spiritual engagement (prayer services, prayer opportunities) while at the same time demonstrating a spirit of tolerance of the religious beliefs of others, facilitating them in whatever way possible in the practices of their own faiths.

In living the ethos the school will raise awareness, develop a concern and support for the vulnerable and disadvantaged in society. It will promote an awareness of justice and equality and establish a positive attitude towards the social inclusion of minority groups in a multi-cultural society. It will attempt to develop a community which facilitates the development of a spirit of service and care in which parents, guardians, educators and young people work together for the good of the school, the community and the environment. Heywood Community School recognises the importance of cultural and extra curricular activities for all.  This incorporates respect for our national language, our heritage, our sporting, artistic and musical interests, and our sense of national community and school pride.   A cultural and extra curricular programme is offered, and all students are encouraged to participate.

Standards of Behaviour

In our school students are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves, for their own learning and for their discipline. This policy has been developed and modified in consultation with the stakeholders, which includes students and all members of the school community.  Inevitably some responsibilities remain unnamed and it is the intention of the school to update this policy from time to time, as circumstances require. In the meantime the list should not be regarded as exhaustive and the mere fact that a particular matter is not specified in this code will not exonerate a student from blame should there be an infringement of another person’s rights.

The rules are kept to a minimum and emphasise personal responsibility, safety and respect for persons and property as fundamental requirements. The Board of Management, Principal, Deputy Principal, and all staff have the right and duty to ensure that the rights of all are respected. It is understood that the Board of Management acts in “loco parentis” and has a duty of care in upholding these rules, and that the scope of this policy covers conduct when in school uniform, in class, within the school grounds, at break-time and lunch time, while travelling to and from school, while on school trips and involved in school activities. At enrolment the students and their parents/guardians are given a copy of the school rules and must sign these as part of the enrolment procedure. The Year Head retains this copy in the student’s file.

 

Respect, Rights and Responsibilities

In Heywood Community School there is one basic school requirement for all: We must show respect for self, other people, the property of other people, and the environment in which we live. Through respect for others, we aim to create a positive working environment and develop a spirit of community and togetherness. The school rules and the code of behaviour are based on these principles. The school rules and behavioural code are subject to changes as the need arises.

 

Respecting and Recognising the Rights of Others

  • Teachers have the right to carry out their work in an atmosphere of co-operation and mutual respect.
  • Every student has the right to be educated without disturbance from other students.
  • Respecting others means treating others with courtesy and fairness (good manners).
  • Respecting others also means resolving difficulties and conflict in a responsible and fair manner.
  • All adults employed in the school, parents and visitors to the school, have the right to expect full co-operation from all students inside and outside class.
  • Parents/guardians have the right to expect that their children will work to the best of their ability at all times.
  • Everyone has the right to work in a supportive and safe environment without the fear of being bullied.
  • All members of the school community have the right to enjoy their free time and break time without being bullied or intimidated.

 

Recognising One’s Own Responsibilities

  • Every student has a duty to work to the best of his/her ability in school.
  • Every student has a duty to treat every one in a respectful manner.
  • Every student must understand that fighting, bad language, inappropriate comments and rough behaviour show serious disrespect and shall not be tolerated.
  • Regular attendance is necessary if each student is to derive the full benefits of teaching and learning.
  • Every student has the responsibility to respect the authority of those charged with their care and education.
  • Every student is responsible for his/her own personal property.
  • Every student has a responsibility to respect all school property and that of others.
  • School and Classroom Rules

 

Introduction

The purpose of the Code of Behaviour is to establish clearly for students, their parents/guardians and their teachers, the areas of responsibility and the standards of behaviour that Heywood Community School has set for its students.

 

The Code of Behaviour is outlined in six main sections:

  1. School Attendance.
  2. Respect for others and the school environment.
  3. Dress, Appearance and Property.
  4. Behaviour in the classroom and while representing the school.
  5. Discipline structure.
  6. Role of adults, parents and guardians.

 

  1. School Attendance

In order to derive meaningful benefit from their education, a key element of pupils experience is the quality time they spend in school.  It is expected therefore that students will attend school regularly and punctually.  Under the “Educational Welfare Act 2000,” schools have a legal obligation to monitor attendance and report students to the National Education Welfare Board who have in excess of 20 days absence during the school year.  The following procedures are designed to facilitate the monitoring of attendance.

Attendance and Punctuality
  • Progress at school requires optimum attendance and punctuality.It is expected that students will attend school regularly, unless prevented from doing so by illness.
  • Students should acquire the habit of punctuality.  School commences with early morning assembly at 8.50 a.m. each day.  Students are expected to be present for assembly. Lateness is only acceptable in cases of extreme emergency.
  • Reason for lateness must be given to the Year Head.  Latecomers may not enter class without a pass obtained from the Secretary’s office.
  • When a student is absent from school, a written explanation from parent/guardian must be given to the Year Head on the first day of return. Please note that  slips for absences have been included in the back pages of the homework journal. Persistent or unexplained absence will be investigated by the Attendance Officer.  Medical Certificates should be supplied with the note if the student has attended the doctor.
  • A student wishing to leave school temporarily during the school day, e.g. for a dental visit, must present a note of explanation to the Year Head, and must be signed out and back in by a Parent/Guardian at the Secretary’s office.
  • Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds during break times. Students must be present for all house exams as a prerequisite for advancing to the next year’s course.

 

  1. Respect for others and the School Environment

To promote learning in the school students are encouraged to set goals for themselves regarding their relations with each other, their relations with people in authority and their progress in their academic and other work. Each student will be encouraged to seek excellence in achieving their best in these areas. The school has a positive Pastoral Care System which encourages students through personal and group contact.

 

Courtesy
  • The school ethos is based on mutual respect and courtesy for all members of the school community.
  • It is expected that all students show politeness, respect and courteous co-operation to all school staff, fellow students, visitors to the school and bus drivers at all times.
  • Visitors to the school are to be welcomed and directed to the Secretary’s office.
  • Ill mannered, disruptive or dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated.
  • Pupils are expected to move quietly throughout the school in an orderly manner and to observe the one way system in the corridors.
  • Any form of aggression or harassment either physical or verbal to any member of the school community will be viewed as contrary to the school ethos.
  • Any form of defiance of members of staff will not be tolerated.
  • Bad language or coarseness will not be tolerated.

 

Bullying

A stable secure learning environment is essential in order that students are educated to the highest possible standard. Any form of bullying undermines the quality of education and may impose psychological damage.  Heywood Community School disapproves of bullying and is actively engaged in counteracting such behaviour. The following Charter was prepared in consultation with teachers, parents and students.

Charter of Rights & Responsibilities

Each person in Heywood Community School has:

  • The right to be respected, and the duty to respect others.
  • The right not to accept, and the duty not to engage in, name-calling, physical abuse, ganging up, isolating or harassing other people.
  • The right to report if this is happening to them, and the duty to report it if they see it happening to others.
  • The right to learn and the duty to promote learning and recreation in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

Bullying in any form (verbal, physical or psychological or cyber) is not tolerated.  Students who are experiencing bullying or who witness bullying, or suspect that bullying is taking place are encouraged to report such incidents to their Tutor, Year Head or someone in authority, or to a parent/guardian who should contact the school. Information will be treated sensitively.

 

Cyber Bullying

Offensive or defamatory messages or comments posted or sent by a student to another student or a member of staff using any form of digital technology is strictly prohibited and may result in suspension or expulsion.

Procedure in Countering Bullying

A copy of the above Charter is displayed in each classroom.

All students are made aware of the Charter.

Pastoral classes raise awareness of the negative effects of bullying.

Students are encouraged to report all cases of bullying.

All students are encouraged to develop a sense of self worth.

All reports of bullying are investigated in consultation with the Class Tutor, Year Head, Deputy Principal and Principal.

 

Child Protection

Heywood Community School Child Protection Policy was reviewed in January 2012.  In all matters concerning child protection, staff and management follow, as their school policy, the official Child Protection Procedures for Post Primary Schools.

 

Litter/Environment

Heywood Community School is involved in the Green School Initiative which endeavours to foster a caring attitude towards our environment. In the interests of Health & Safety and the protection of our environment, every effort should be made to maintain all areas inside and outside the school, litter free.

Litter must be disposed of in the bins provided.

All areas of the school must be kept litter free.

Students are encouraged to recycle materials in the appropriate bins.

Graffiti, vandalism, damage to trees, shrubs and the environment are not acceptable.

All students will be expected to partake in clean-up duties when requested to do so by members of staff.  The support of all students in using the bins provided and keeping the school litter free will promote a healthy and safe environment for all.

 

Smoking

Arising from the Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2002 it is the policy of Heywood Community School that all of its workplaces are smoke-free and that all employees, students and visitors to the school have a right to work and /or visit the school, in a smoke-free environment.  Smoking is prohibited within the entire school boundary and on school buses with no exceptions.   Apart from its illegal aspect, students are endangering their health and the health of others, especially those suffering from respiratory problems of any kind. Because of its serious nature, any student found smoking/in possession of, cigarettes, will face a serious sanction.

 

Addictive Substances

Addictive substances e.g. alcohol and illegal drugs are strictly banned in Heywood Community School. Any student found in possession of any of these substances whether for use, sale or supply, will face the prospect of immediate suspension and possibly a more serious sanction following due process.  The school will be obliged to inform parents/guardians and the relevant authorities.

 

Mobile Phones/Multi-Media Devices

The school insists that students should not bring mobile phones/ipods/mp3 players etc. to school, save in exceptional circumstances (eg. school tours which extend beyond the normal school hours). Where students must bring mobile phones to school, they should be left in the student’s locker.  The phone should never be turned on and/or used during the day.  Please note that the school is not responsible for phones or other multi-media devices that are lost, damaged or stolen.  Where teachers form the opinion that the student’s mobile phone causes a disruption of any sort, it will be confiscated.  It must be given to the teacher on request and it will be left in the school office for collection by the student’s parent/guardian at a time convenient to school management.

 

One-Way System

Students  are  requested  to  walk  in  single  file  on  the  right  hand  side in a quiet disciplined manner for ease of movement on corridors.

Behaviour in the School Grounds

Students are required to remain within clearly defined areas in the playground i.e. behind the double yellow or white lines at entrances and exits and other areas, and within the natural boundaries of the school.

Students are not permitted in the following areas:

In front of the school during school time, unless being dropped or collected by a Parent/Guardian or by instruction from a member of staff, including quad area, lawns and roundabout area.

Staffroom and front corridor.

The driveway to the rear of the school

The back driveway leading to the village (except for local children coming to and going home from school).

Students are not allowed drive mechanically propelled vehicles –  cars/motor bikes, etc. onto the school grounds in the interests of safety to others.  Parents’ co-operation is requested in this manner.

All students are encouraged to participate in organised school extra curricular activities. Students who wish for some quiet time, may use the library facilities or specified classrooms adjacent to Social Areas during lunch time.

Fire and Emergency Procedures

In the interest of health and safety, when the fire alarm sounds, all students must follow the instructions of teachers, health and safety signs and proceed without delay to the fire point on the quad at the front of the school where they will be accounted for.

 

Property

Each student is expected to respect the property of the school and of other students. The school provides lockers to support students in caring for their own property. It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his/her locker is secured with a lock. Any form of theft or interference with the property of others will be treated as a serious offence.

Every item brought to school should be clearly marked with student’s name.

Students should get their books and materials for class at break times.

The school cannot compensate students for articles lost or damaged.

Compensation for any damage to school property will be the responsibility of the parents of the offending student.

 

  1. Dress and Appearance and Property

 

School Uniform

All students are required to wear the correct uniform, be neat and tidy at all    times, while at school, representing the school or while travelling to and from the school.

 

Girls

Mid-grey knee length skirt, with inverted pleat at the front (Option of mid-grey ladies trousers with petrol-blue pin stripe).

Petrol blue jumper with crest.

Grey blouse with school tie (red with petrol blue stripe).

Grey knee socks or plain black opaque tights.

Black shoes. No runners allowed in classrooms.

 

Boys

Mid-grey pants.

Petrol blue jumper with crest.

Grey shirt with school tie (red with petrol blue stripe).

Grey socks.

Black shoes. No runners allowed in classrooms.

 

Boys and Girls

Black water proof school jacket with fleece lining is compulsory for all students. No other type of jacket is acceptable.

For P.E.- all students must wear the Heywood tracksuit.

Boots/runners are not acceptable for any students.

 

General Appearance

As a sign of respect for oneself and for others, a neat, tidy and well groomed appearance is essential for all students.  Hair should be neat and tidy, within the natural colour range and suitable for school and work.

In the interest of safety, no jewellery is permitted, except one pair of stud type ear rings for girls. Male students are to be clean shaven and are allowed to wear one stud ear ring if they so desire.  No other facial jewellery is permitted. Make-up is forbidden for all students.

The wearing of the school uniform contributes much to the maintenance of order and discipline in the school and parents are asked to ensure that pupils are not negligent in this matter.  In the interest of fairness to all, it will be necessary to take disciplinary action against those who breach these rules. The management will rule on the acceptability of individual cases in relation to any aspect of the uniform, dress or appearance.

 

  1. Behaviour in the Classroom and while Representing the School

 

The Classroom

Students deserve a pleasant and effective learning environment. It is therefore essential that students co-operate with each teacher within the classroom.

Authority within the classroom rests with the teacher in charge of the classroom.  The teacher’s authority also extends beyond his/her classroom to include the entire school campus.

Punctuality and proper preparation are essential for the smooth running of each class.

Homework must be completed to the best ability of each student.

A neat and tidy environment in the classroom should be maintained.

Students should enter and leave the classroom in an orderly manner.

Courtesy and respect must be shown towards other students and teachers in the classroom.

Students must not disturb the work of the teacher or other students in any way.

In addition to the general rules outlined above, individual teachers will draw up and explain rules pertaining to their own classroom.

 

Homework

Heywood Community School offers a comprehensive range of academic and practical subjects so as to provide its students with a full range of learning experiences.  School work must be supplemented by home-work both written and oral. It is important for parents to ensure that their child devotes sufficient time to completing good quality homework. It is also recommended that time be spent at home studying work done in class each day.  Failure to hand up quality homework on time may result in disciplinary sanctions.

Homework Journals are compulsory for all students. They form a means of communication between parents, teachers and students. Homework assigned by each teacher should be entered in the pupil’s journal each day. Parents should check this journal at least once a week. Homework journals are checked on a regular basis by the Class Tutor. Journals which have been defaced will have to be replaced. Sanctions will be imposed on students who repeatedly fail to hand up completed/good quality homework.

Homework, including written exercises, learning, revision and review, is given on a regular basis and students are required to complete it neatly and to the best of their ability.

Students are required to note all homework assigned in their School Journal.

Parents/Guardians are required to ensure that when the homework, written and oral, is completed, the homework notebook is then signed by them when required by the teacher.

If for some reason, homework or part of it cannot be completed, parents/guardians are required to note this in the school journal.

Persistent offenders may be suspended with prescribed homework which will be inspected by the Year Head before he/she will be permitted to return to school.

We are most anxious that every student should make progress and we ask for the co-operation of parents in ensuring that this aspect of their child’s education receives the time and attention it requires.

 

Representing the School

When representing the school in Debating, Gaisce, Sports, Trips, etc., students are required to uphold by their courtesy and behaviour, the good reputation and ethos of the school, their family and themselves.

Directions from the person (s) in charge must be complied with at all times.

School rules remain in force, including the ban on smoking and use of addictive substances.

Students who persistently disregard school rules or show serious disrespect for any member of the school community may not be allowed to represent the school on school teams, for games, debating, or other forms of extra-curricular activity for a period of time.  Such a decision will be taken by the Principal or Deputy Principal in consultation with the Year Head and trainer of the team, or the teacher in charge of the activity in question.  Parents will be informed of the decision and the duration of same.

 

  1. Discipline Structure

 

The Subject/Class Teacher

The most important person in developing a friendly open atmosphere with mutual respect between teacher and student in the school is the class teacher. He/she is responsible for discipline within the class and will attempt to modify behaviour to ensure a positive, happy, learning environment within the classroom.

The accepted procedures for dealing with discipline issues include:

Meeting and discussion with student.

Additional class-work or homework.

Note to parent (s) in journal.

Litter or cleaning duties.

Supervised lunchtime detention.

Subject Teacher Report to be given to Tutor/Year Head for persistent misbehaviour or a once-off serious incident.

 

The Class Tutor

The class tutor has particular responsibility for his/her assigned class group. The tutor’s role is mainly a caring one, but also minor misbehaviour that occurs outside the classroom must be reported to the Tutor. In addition, recurring classroom misbehaviour must be reported by the classroom teacher to the Tutor. Positive behaviour should also be reported to the Tutor.

The accepted procedures for dealing with discipline issues include:

Meeting and discussion with student. (record kept).

Additional class work or home work.

Lunch time detention.

Note home to parents.

Litter or cleaning duties.

Report to Year Head. Any Conduct Report from a teacher or any other member of staff should be reported to the relevant Year Head.

Loss of privilege for the student.

Recommendation for Friday detention to Year Head.

 

The Year Head

The Year Head has overall responsibility for the students in the year group and is aided by the Tutor. Serious incidents and recurring minor incidents concerning any student must be referred to Year Head. When a student is referred to the Year

Head he/she will decide on a course of action which will usually take one of the following forms:

The accepted procedures for dealing with discipline issues include:

Meeting and discussion with student (record kept) and possible referral for guidance (record kept).

Additional homework.

Lunchtime detention.

Contact with Parent(s)/Guardian.

On report.

Litter or cleaning duties.

Friday detention.

Meeting with parents.

Referral to chaplain or counsellor for guidance (record kept).

Withdrawal of privileges in consultation with parents and or double Friday Detention.

Referral to Discipline Committee. The Discipline Committee will comprise of the relevant Year Head and Tutor. The Principal/Deputy Principal will be involved if deemed necessary.

Referral to Principal/Deputy Principal.

The Principal/Deputy Principal

Referral to Principal/Deputy Principal will take place if necessary and all up-to-date backup documentation regarding the student’s file will be examined. These referrals should be reserved for very serious misbehaviour or continuous misbehaviour. In serious situations, however, the Principal/Deputy Principal may be directly involved from the outset (e.g. substance abuse, health and safety).

The accepted procedures at this stage include:

Meeting and serious discussion with student.

Letter to home.

Litter and cleaning duties.

Meeting with student and Parent(s)/Guardian.

Possible referral to Chaplain or Counsellor.

Referral to BOM under Discipline Item on Agenda.

 

Suspension.

 

  1. In-House: A student may be suspended from classes but must be present on the school premises. In-house suspension may take any one of five forms or a combination of the five forms specified below.

 

(i)   Suspension at back of class.

(ii)  Suspension in another class.

(iii) Suspension from specified activities.

(iv) Suspension in suspension room away from his/her peers.

(v)  Suspension outside Deputy Principal’s or Principal’s office.

 

(2)         Out of School:  A student may be suspended from school until the issue in question has been resolved.  It will be the responsibility of the student for making up any loss of instructional time.

 

The Board of Management

The Principal has power for any cause which she/he judges adequate, to dismiss a pupil, subject to the approval of the Board of Management. The parents/guardians must be informed in writing of the decision, the reason for the dismissal, and of their right to appeal the decision.  Appeals to the Board of Management can be made personally by the Parent/Guardian with the student. The Board of Management complies with all elements of the Education Act 1998 and the Education (Welfare) Act of 2000.   Suspensions and exclusions are subject to appeal under Section 29 of the Education Act as outlined in the Act (Refer to Suspension and Expulsion Policy).

Additional Support Staff

The Guidance Counsellors and Chaplain are available to meet students and parents/guardians by appointment.    The Guidance counsellors are always ready to help with student worries or difficulties, which may be personal, related to study, subject options and later on career choices.   If parents/ guardians wish to make an appointment with the school counsellors or the Chaplain, they should contact the main office.    Year Heads or Senior Management can refer to the Chaplain or to the Guidance Counsellors any students requiring support.

The school Special Educational Needs Department also provides support for students with a range of learning and behavioural difficulties.   Class teachers, Year Heads, Senior Management can refer to the Resource/Learning Support teacher any student they are concerned about. A written explanation should accompany any such referrals.

Sanctions

Despite the best efforts of school staff, parents and students, it is inevitable that behavioural problems will occur. Sanctions are necessary to support the standards of behaviour. The Board of Management views such sanctions as corrective supports rather than punishment; the purpose is to promote positive behaviour and a safe atmosphere in the school community, based on the principle of respect for all. The aim of the following sanction procedure is to ensure that misbehaviour can be corrected in a manner which is fair, effective and dignified.

Each teacher is responsible for discipline within his/her own classroom. Routine reprimanding by the teacher in charge of the class will be the general procedure for minor incidents of indiscipline. The teacher may, depending on the offence, implement one of the following sanctions. As the seriousness of the incidents progress other members of staff will be consulted.

Guidelines Concerning Misbehaviour

 

Minor
  1. Late for class.
  2. No books/pen/P.E gear etc.
  3. No homework.
  4. Make up/ Uniform.
  5. Rubbish/ Papers.
  6. Chewing gum.
  7. Drinks in classroom.
  8. No diary.
  9. Going to lockers.
  10. Running on corridor.
  11. Using sheets of paper  rather than copies (J.C. level).
  12. Minor class disruptions.

 

Sanctions
  1. Verbal correction reflecting age – warning.
  2. Extra work relevant to subject.
  3. Suspension to other class.
  4. Penalty Sheet – repeat homework or extra work.
  5. Class detention.
  6. Communication with parents using school diary –  to be signed.
  7. On Report.
  8. Penalty Sheets specific to subject area.
  9. Clean-up duties.

 

Serious
  1. Persistent minor offences without improvement.
  2. Smoking.
  3. Damage to school property or property of others.
  4. Graffiti on school property and in journal.
  5. Phone/ going off/ using phone.
  6. Cheek/ back answering.
  7. Questioning authority of teacher.
  8. Inappropriate comment re  other students.
  9. Writing on uniform and tearing uniform.
  10. Out of bounds.
  11. Littering.
  12. Absent from class without permission.
  13. Disrupting exams.

 

Sanctions
  1. Detention/picking up (Litter)
  2. On report.
  3. Conduct report with details of punishment to Tutor/Year Head.
  4. Lunchtime Detention.
  5. Friday Detention.
  6. Contact parents.
  7. Clean up at break time.
  8. Sent home until work completed at discretion of Year Head.
  9. Behavioural Contract.
  10. Discipline Committee.
  11. Letter of apology.
  12. Withdrawal of privileges.
  13. Suspension (smoking).
  14. Confiscation/suspension (phone).

 

Very Serious
  1. Using foul language towards a member of staff.
  2. Bullying/ Harassment (Including cyber bullying and mobile phone bullying).
  3. Fighting.
  4. Policy of non-compliance.
  5. Stealing.
  6. Vandalism.
  7. Grouping threateningly.
  8. Aggressive/dangerous behaviour.
  9. Personal comments towards teacher or other staff/student.
  10. Truancy.
  11. Not following adults/ teachers directions
  12. Persistent offences without improvement.
  13. Refusal to obey teachers or non- teaching staff.

 

Sanctions
  1. Discipline Committee
  2. Friday Detention.
  3. Isolation / removed from class.
  4. Privileges withdrawn.
  5. Behavioural Contract.
  6. Sent home until work is completed.
  7. Suspension.
  8. Expulsion.

 

Detention

Detention takes place on Fridays after school from 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m.

When placing a student on detention the procedure is as follows:

 

  • Letter posted home informing parents of the detention and the reasons for same. The student shall be responsible for completion of appropriate work if given.
  • A student who fails to attend Friday Detention must complete the detention the following Friday or face suspension.
  • A student who arrives late for detention on more than two occasions will be referred to Year Head for further sanction.
  • Students must do the work set by the supervising teacher in detention.
  • A student who is late for detention should complete that day’s detention and be scheduled for the following week’s detention also.
  • Failure to behave in Friday Detention will result in a double Friday Detention or suspension.
  • Repeated detentions for any reason require the further sanction of suspension.

 

Rewards

High expectations produce higher standards from students in coursework, homework and general behaviour.

Aims of rewards system

To provide a structured system by which different levels of achievements can be recognised and rewarded.

To foster a culture in which praise and rewards become more widely used.

To provide a system that is clearly understood and valued by students and consistently applied by teachers.

To motivate students to improve and work to high standards.

Our means of rewarding good behaviour, commitment to school life, positive attitude and a strong work ethic fall into four categories:

Academic progress.

Quality homework.

Contribution to the school in the extra curricular area.

Consistent improvement/most improved.

The types of rewards will include.

Verbal praise.

  • Written comments in diary.
  • Certificate home.
  • Letter of improvement to parents.

 

In addition, the school will hold an annual Awards Ceremony at which students’ contribution to the school will be recognised.

Modelling Standards of Behaviour – The Responsibility of Adults

Adults in the school have a responsibility to model the school’s standards of behaviour, in their dealings both with students and with each other, since by their example they are providing a powerful source of learning for students.

Parents are expected to model the standards that students are asked to respect.  In order to do this, they need to be familiar with the standards and to understand the importance of expecting students to behave according to these standards.  Parents of all students should ensure that their child is familiar with, and understands the Code of Behaviour.

The ways in which parents and teachers interact will provide students with a model of good working relationships.

  1. Role of Adults, Parents and Guardians

The support and co-operation of parents is essential for the effective operation of the Code of Behaviour.  If teachers and parents are not working in harmony, pupils inevitably suffer.  The school’s policy is to keep parents informed of any problems before they escalate.

Parents are invited to keep closely in contact with the school regarding all aspects of their child’s progress.  Organised contacts on the part of the school include annual parent/teacher meetings, twice yearly reports, newsletter, educational meetings for parents relating to students’ welfare and development.  The school encourages parents to make full use of these opportunities.  Parents are welcome to arrange a meeting with a particular Teacher, Class Tutor, Year Head, Principal or Deputy Principal.

The school appeals to parents to ensure that pupils attend regularly and punctually, and that a written explanation is provided without delay for unavoidable absence or lateness. Parents have a clear responsibility to ensure that their son/daughter devotes sufficient time to complete good quality homework.

It is also important for parents to inform teachers if problems are encountered concerning homework.  If at any time, a student is experiencing personal difficulties,  such as those caused by serious illness in the home, a bereavement, or if there is any other serious cause for anxiety,  parents are encouraged to inform the school so that teachers may be understanding and sympathetic in dealing with any problems at school which may result from such difficulties.

In all matters of conduct the management and staff of the school wish to work in collaboration with parents/guardians.  We welcome comments and suggestions as to how the goal of a caring community might further be realised and contributed to by all.

 

Suspension and Expulsion Policy

The Board of Management of Heywood Community School in its procedures on suspension complies with sections 22 and 23 of the Education (Welfare) Act 2000 and complies with section 24 in its policy on expulsion.   This policy applies to all partners in the education process, School Board of Management, teachers, students and parents/guardians and was developed in consultation with all of the above.

The policy was ratified by the Board of Management in November2009 and implemented thereafter. Students and parents/guardians are informed of the policy on enrolment/admission to the school. It is also available on the school website www.heywood.ie. A copy of the policy is given to each member of staff at the beginning of the academic year.  A review of the policy will take place at suitable intervals.

 

Discipline and Code of Behaviour

The School Discipline Policy and the Code of Behaviour contain relevant information on the sanctions employed by the school when a student breaks the Code of Behaviour.  The Code of Behaviour is made available to all parents on application. The Board of Management of Heywood Community School will take any other reasonable measures to ensure good order and discipline in the school and ensure the safety of students and staff at all times.

 

Suspension

Withdrawal of permission from a pupil to attend school for a specified period of             time.

Pending the completion of a particular event or instruction.

Withdrawal from a particular class or subject for a period of time may be used in some circumstances.

The effect on the educational progress of a student should be carefully considered within the context of the school’s Code of Behaviour.

Internal Suspension

The school also operates an internal suspension where students are required to attend school outside normal times.

 

Period of Suspension

This depends on the severity of the offence but can vary from one to five days.

The authority to suspend a pupil rests with Year Heads, the Deputy Principal and the Principal of the school.

In all instances all suspensions are reported to the Principal or/and Deputy Principal.

This authority is subject to the right of the parents (or of a pupil who is over 18 years) to appeal to the Board of Management.

All suspensions are reported to the Board of Management for noting and review.

Under the Education (Welfare) Act, Section 21 the principal will inform the educational welfare officer in writing if a pupil is suspended for 6 days or more in any academic year.

 

Suspension as a Sanction

Suspension is a serious sanction and is only imposed where other efforts to resolve a disciplinary situation have failed

The nature of an incident dictates that the student be removed from the school  immediately.

Circumstances in which suspension is considered include:

Repeated incidents of indiscipline in spite of warnings and counselling by staff.

Failure to recognise and submit to legitimate authority.

Behaviour, which is considered to interfere with the right to learn of other students.

Particularly serious incidents, which endanger the welfare of others.

The issue will be fully investigated by the Year Head and report to the Principal/Deputy Principal.

Notes are kept of all incidents or events and witnesses to the event(s) may be interviewed. Such evidence might be called upon to support a decision to suspend.

The student against whom the complaint is made will be given an opportunity to present his/her side of the story to the Discipline Committee.

A written account may be sought from the student.

The Principal/Deputy Principal may suspend a student for up to 5 days.

Parents are contacted directly either by telephone or by letter or both to inform the parents in respect of a suspension.  Parents are informed, in writing.

Of the reasons for the suspension.

The period of the suspension.

The requirements which must be fulfilled to gain reinstatement.

Their right to appeal the decision to suspend

Procedures to be followed in making such an appeal.

All suspensions must be brought to the attention of the Board of Management for noting or discussion.

For continuous disruptive very serious breaches of discipline,  the Board may suspend for longer periods.

Where the Board suspends a student for in excess of 20 days, the NEWB is notified.

Pupils are not dismissed from school unless and until arrangements are made for their safe return to the care of their families.

All relevant personnel are required to keep records of all meetings and/or phone calls in connection with the suspension.

 

Expulsion

Expulsion is the most severe sanction available to the school against a student. It is only imposed for very serious breaches of school rules where it is evident that a student fails to recognise or submit to legitimate authority or where all other sanctions have failed or in cases where the rights of a greater number of students are being denied because of the continual disruptive behaviour of an individual.

The procedures set out in paragraphs 1,2,3,4, in the case of suspension above are as follows:

Having considered all aspects of the case, if the Principal decides to recommend to the Board of Management that the student be expelled, s/he informs the

student’s parents in writing of:

The decision,

The reason/s for it.

Their right to make representations to the Board of Management on behalf of the student.

The requirement to give notice to the Secretary of the Board of Management of their intention to make such representations within 5 days to enable an early hearing by the Board of Management.

To ensure its independence as the final authority in the case, the Board of Management is not involved in the process leading to the decision of the

Principal to recommend the expulsion of the student.

Each step in this process is conducted in the presence of the Deputy Principal or, in her absence, the Year Head and in all instances contemporaneous notes are recorded.

Arrangements are made for a joint meeting of the Board of Management with the Principal and the parents. The recommendation of the Principal and the representations (if requested) of the parents should be heard by the Board at this meeting.     When the Board has heard all of the evidence, the Chairperson will enquire whether any member has a conflict of interests in respect of the matter being considered by the Board.

Where the Board is satisfied that a conflict of interests exists, the member(s)  involved shall withdraw from the meeting at the same time as the parent(s)/guardian(s).  Student (if over 18 and representing himself/herself) and the Principal to allow the Board to consider the case.

No new evidence or information, which had not previously been made known to the parents, should be introduced at this meeting.

The student may need to stand suspended from school pending the decision of the Board of Management.

The Board should ensure that any member of the Board who might have a conflicting interest should be excused and not participate in the decision.

 

The Decision

If the recommendation of the Principal is rejected, it is a matter for the Board to decide on what conditions, if any, the student will be allowed back to school.

If the recommendation of the Principal is approved the parents or, (in the case of student over 18 years) the student are/is informed of their right to appeal the decision to the Secretary General of the Department of Education and Science under Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998. The student will remain out of school until the outcome of the appeal is known.

 

NEWB

Where the Board of Management takes the decision to expel a student, it will notify the designated educational welfare officer of its opinion and the reasons therefore. A student shall not be considered expelled before the passing of 20 school days from the receipt of such notification by the educational welfare officer. The Board will co-operate fully with the educational welfare officer in the fulfilment of his/her duties under section 24 of the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000.

The NEWB has the right, under section 29 of the Education Act, 1998, to appeal a decision of the Board of Management to expel and, in the event that such an appeal is initiated by a parent or student, to make submissions to the appeals committee.

The School will assist in finding a place in another school for a dismissed pupil, particularly if the pupil is under school-leaving age.

Appeals must generally be made within 42 calendar days from the date the decision of the school was notified to the parent or student. Accordingly.

Heywood Community School will advise parents of this right of appeal and associated timeframe when informing them of any of the above categories of decisions.

On ratification by the Board of Management the finalised draft policy becomes the school’s agreed policy.  All parents/guardians and students (aged over 18 years) are required to sign a statement to the effect that they have read the policy and agree that they are bound by it Within the framework of School Development Planning this policy will be reviewed/evaluated regularly taking cognisance of changing information, legislation, developments in the school based programme and feedback from parents/guardians, teachers and students.