THE EDUCATION (PASTORAL CARE OF TERTIARY AND INTERNATIONAL LEARNERS) CODE OF PRACTICE 2021
Introduction
When students from other countries come to study in New Zealand, education providers have an important responsibility to ensure that those students are well informed, safe and properly cared for.
To support this, the New Zealand government has developed the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, which replaced the 2016 Code of Practice.
The new Code of Practice was released in December 2021 and applied from 1 January 2022.
What is the Code?
The Code of Practice prescribes the required outcomes education providers and their agents need to deliver for their international students.
The Code of Practice does not apply to concerns about academic standards.
Who does the Code apply to?
The Code applies to all education providers in New Zealand with students enrolled on international study permits. The Code is mandatory to these providers and must be signed by them.
What is an “international student”?
An “international student” is a foreign student studying in New Zealand.
How can I get a copy of the 2021 Code of Practice?
You can request a copy of the Code from your New Zealand educational provider. The Code of Practice is also available and can be downloaded as a pdf, on the New Zealand Legislation website.
The 2021 Code of Practice is also available in other languages that provides a summary of important information for international students and their families.
The 2021 Code of Practice is a resource for all groups and people involved in international education: e.g. international students and their families, providers that are signatories to the Code of Practice.
How do I know if an educational provider has signed the Code?
NZQA maintains a list of all education providers that are approved signatories to the Code of Practice. If the educational provider that you are seeking to enrol with is not a signatory to the Code, you will not be granted a permit from the New Zealand Immigration Service and you will not be able to study at that institution.
What do I do if something goes wrong?
If you have concerns about your treatment by your educational provider or by an agent of the provider, the first thing you must do is contact the Principal, or another person who has been identified to you as someone that you can approach about complaints at your institution. The Code requires all institutions to have fair and equitable internal grievance procedures for students and you need to go through these internal processes before you can take the complaint any further.
If your concerns are not resolved by the internal grievance procedures, you can contact iStudent Complaints.
iStudent Complaints is the appointed operator of the International Student Contract Dispute Resolution Scheme (DRS), which was set up to resolve financial and contractual disputes.
Code signatories are required to comply with the International Student Contract Dispute Resolution Scheme Rules 2016.
A Summary of the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021
- The Code sets standards for educational providers to ensure that:
- High professional standards are maintained.
- The recruitment of international students is undertaken in an ethical and responsible manner.
- Information supplied to international students is comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date.
- Students are provided with information prior to entering into any commitments.
- Contractual dealings with international students are conducted in an ethical and responsible manner.
- The particular needs of international students are recognised.
- All providers have fair and equitable internal procedures for the resolution of international student grievances.
- Full details of what is covered can be found in the Code itself.
MEDICAL AND TRAVEL INSURANCE POLICY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
RATIONALE
Devon Intermediate School has developed a Medical and Travel Insurance Policy.
- To ensure the safety, well-being of the students studying at Devon Intermediate School.
- To ensure compliance with the Ministry of Education’s Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Students (2021) (The Code of Practice).
Policy Requirement Advice
- All students are required to have appropriate Medical and Travel Insurance as specified in The Code of Practice.
- The school shall advise all prospective students about Medical and Travel Insurance requirements in the standard wording in the prospectus and with the Offer of Place letter. A copy(s) of the school’s Insurance policy will be sent to the group organiser together with a policy recommended by the school.
- Students purchasing insurance through a New Zealand insurer should purchase insurance cover at the time of fee payment and before they travel to study at Devon Intermediate School.
- Where insurance is provided from a New Zealand company policy details should be provided in the student’s first language where possible.
- In the case of overseas policy providers, students must provide Devon Intermediate School with the policy details in English at least one month before the students travel to New Zealand.
Verification of Policies
Devon Intermediate School must verify groups are in receipt of an acceptable Medical and Travel Insurance policy.
Verification of policies will be undertaken by the Deputy Principal, International Students, prior to enrolment.
As part of the verification process, Devon Intermediate School shall ensure that:
- The insurer/re-insurer is a reputable and established company with substantial experience in the Travel Insurance business, and has a credit rating no lower than A from Standard and Poors, or B+ from A M Best.
- The Insurer is able to provide emergency 24-hour, 7 day per week cover.
- Students have a “certificate of currency” and policy wording from the Insurance company stating that the student has purchased the cover for the duration of the planned period of study. The certificate and policy working must also detail medical sums insured, repatriation benefits etc.
Where a student is not in possession of an appropriate and current medical and travel insurance policy, Devon Intermediate School undertakes to:
- Advise the student of the medical and travel insurance requirement.
- Provide the student with a default policy which meets the requirements of the Code of Practice Guidelines. The cost of the insurance will be met by the student.
Recording of Policy Details
For each student Devon Intermediate School shall record the:
- Name of the Insurer
- Policy number
- Policy start and end dates
Policy Renewals
For each student, prior to the expiry of their medical and travel insurance policy, Devon Intermediate School shall issue a written reminder to the student advising that policy renewal must be completed.
THE EDUCATION (PASTORAL CARE OF TERTIARY AND INTERNATIONAL LEARNERS) CODE OF PRACTICE 2021
Code
Devon Intermediate School is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 that replaced the existing Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students on 1 January 2022. Please see the guidelines for the Code of Practice 2021 below:
pastoral-care-code-of-practice-2021-english
Eligibility for Health Services
Most international students are not entitled to publicly funded health services while in New Zealand. If you receive medical treatment during your visit, you may be liable for the full costs of that treatment. Full details on entitlements to publicly-funded health services are available through the Ministry of Health and can be viewed on their website at https://www.health.govt.nz/
Medical and Travel Insurance
International students must have appropriate and current medical and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand.
N.B. Students must provide evidence of medical and travel insurance on enrolment. The insurance must cover the full length of the time spent studying in New Zealand. Insurance cover provided by New Zealand companies only will be accepted. We recommend either Southern Cross or Uni-care. Uni-care has a premium of approximately $615.00 per annum with an excess for stipulated personal effects. This policy covers health, fee protection, personal effects, and travel.
The school will keep a record of the Insurance Policy number and the type of cover provided.
All international students must live in one of the following types of accommodation:
- With their parents or legal guardians (proof of legal guardianship must be supplied).
- With a designated caregiver chosen by their parents/legal guardians. All accommodation offered by designated caregivers must be approved by the school, as required by the Education Code of Practice 2016. An indemnity must be signed by parents giving the designated caregiver authority.
(A legal guardian is someone who has full rights and responsibilities for the student, as appointed by a Court of Law, following the death or other inability of the parents to provide proper care for the student. Proof of legal guardianship must be supplied.)
An Indemnity Form must be signed by an international parent stating that the designated caregivers are ‘bona fide’ relatives or close friends of the student’s family.
Accident Insurance
The Accident Compensation Corporation provides accident insurance for all New Zealand citizens, residents and temporary visitors to New Zealand, but you may still be liable for all other medical and related costs. Further information can be viewed on the ACC website at http://acc.co.nz
STUDENT FEES AND ASSOCIATED COSTS
Administration Fee (non-refundable incl. GST) NZ $500.00
Tuition Fees (annual payable in advance incl GST) NZ $8,000.00
This covers: Classroom tuition, textbooks on loan, ESOL tuition if required
Additional Compulsory Costs
Medical and Travel Insurance: Approximately $615.00 per annum
Stationery: Approximately NZ $40.00 for a year’s supply (These compulsory costs may vary according to the needs of the student.)
Non-Compulsory Costs
Voluntary Activities
School/Class trips approximately NZ $25.00 per year
Music lessons $10 per year plus the cost of booklets supplied by the provider.
Sports team participation varies – up to NZ $100.00 for some sports
Camps approximately NZ $400.00 per student.
It is understood that all children will participate fully in all aspects of Devon Intermediate School life.
FEES PROTECTION
Devon Intermediate School has a Fee Protection Policy to safeguard the fees paid by International Students, in the unlikely event that the school may not be able to continue delivering tuition to the international student. The School’s Board of Trustees guarantees to hold in reserve sufficient funds to meet the requirements of any refund in these circumstances.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS & PROCEDURES
Immigration
Full details of visa and permit requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through the New Zealand Immigration Service and can be viewed on their website at https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas
The applicant must complete the International Student Application for Enrolment form and produce the following documents before the application can be processed:
- Passport
- Student visa/permit
- Copies of recent school report with verified English translation
- Evidence of Medical and Travel Insurance
- Information on any medical conditions (if applicable)
- Administration fee: NZ $500.00 (non-refundable)
- Completed Designated Caregivers Indemnity form (if applicable)
Procedures once an enrolment has been received
On receipt of a completed enrolment application, the parents will be informed of an interview time.
- This interview will involve:
- The prospective student
- The parents
- A translator (if required)
- The Principal
- Deputy Principal (International Students)
The interview will consist of:
- Explanation of the Conditions of Acceptance (see below)
- Explanation of the designated caregiver’s role & responsibility (if applicable)
- Making an appointment time to visit the home of the designated caregiver.
- Classroom and daily programme explanation
- Initial assessment of the level of English of the child
- Ensuring the parents understand the Code
- Answering any questions the family may have
- Tour of the school facilities
Parents will be informed in writing of the school’s decision within 7 days of the interview.
If there are no current available places, the parents will be notified and will be given the option of being placed on a waiting list.
When a place becomes available, they will be notified and given 14 days to accept or decline the placement.
Placement in a particular Year or class is at the discretion of the Principal. This may be dependent upon class numbers, English language proficiency, and any other school assessments.
If enrolment is accepted, the parents have 14 days, or less if they desire, to accept the placement by paying the fees. Once the fees have been received and receipted by the school, an Offer of Place letter will be given to attend Devon Intermediate School.
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT DEVON INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
This sheet contains important background information about processes and procedures that will be followed by the education provider in respect of your son/daughter. Please read it carefully and make sure that you are happy with all the information. If you have any queries please contact Debra Young at Devon Intermediate School.
Accidents and emergencies
The education provider is responsible for all emergency procedures during school hours, and all emergency procedures outside school hours while the student is in a homestay or a boarding establishment.
In the event of an accident or emergency appropriate action will be taken and you will be contacted as soon as possible by the school Principal Jenny Gellen, your student’s agent, or your insurance company, on the emergency contact number you provided on your child’s application for an enrolment form.
If your child has an accident while you are outside of New Zealand, the education provider or the homestay parents may need to consent to urgent medical procedures on your behalf, including blood transfusions if necessary.
Communication
- Parents are required to have regular communication with their children. Parents should provide their children with calling cards so they can call home whenever they feel they need to.
- Students will be given open access to e-mail facilities at school to enable them to communicate with friends and family members.
- School phones will be available if necessary.
- Students will be encouraged to write letters and enclose photographs and samples of work to their homes on a regular basis.
- Parents are encouraged to interact with the education provider and invited to visit their child’s school at least once during their child’s period of enrolment.
- Parents can be expected to be contacted by the education provider if there are any concerns regarding their child’s well-being or progress.
- Parents should contact the school Principal Jenny Gellen if they have any concerns or issues they want to discuss regarding their children.
- Parents can expect to receive regular reports outlining their child’s academic progress.
CONDITIONS OF ACCEPTANCE
In addition to the conditions listed here, all conditions that are part of the contract with parents, the fees refund policy and other school policies also apply.
- Although an elementary level of English is desirable no students will be refused acceptance due to their level of English, as all levels of English proficiency are catered for at Devon Intermediate School.
- Students and parents/legal guardians must accept and abide by rules regarding behaviour and conduct that apply to all students. Unacceptable behaviour may result in the termination of tuition.
- Students must observe the laws of New Zealand.
- Students must observe the conditions of their Visa and Student Permit. If a student breaks the terms of the visa/permit, the school will report the fact to the New Zealand Immigration Service, which may result in the student having to leave New Zealand.
- Because class placements are decided on the evidence of assessment after arrival in New Zealand, all information given before enrolment about placement on courses and in classes is provisional. The school reserves the right to adjust placements and individual programmes at any time if it is in the student’s interests to do so.
- The student will attend the school on all occasions when it is open unless prevented by illness or other urgent cause.
- Tuition may be terminated if the student fails to comply with the school rules or breaches the conditions of their visa.
- Tuition fees will be paid in full before enrolment, or before enrolment is renewed (whichever applies).
- All additional costs (as outlined in the school prospectus) will be paid promptly, as required.
- The conditions of the Fee Refund Policy will be accepted.
- All students are required to have travel and medical insurance for the duration of their period of enrolment. The school can arrange insurance unless students choose to make their own arrangements, in which case proof must be provided that the insurance purchased is adequate. The school will keep a record of the policy number.
- All international students must live in one of the following types of accommodation
- With their parents or legal guardians (proof of legal guardianship must be supplied).
- With a designated caregiver chosen by their parents/legal guardians. All accommodation offered by designated caregivers must be approved by the school, as required by the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students. An indemnity must be signed by parents giving the designated caregiver authority.
- All disputes will be dealt with under New Zealand law.
- The school’s complaints procedure for international students will be used to deal with grievances.
- Parents must inform the school of their address, telephone numbers, and e-mail address. The student and/or parents will advise the school of any change of accommodation.
- The student and/or parents will provide academic, medical and other information that is relevant to the wellbeing and placement of the student.
REFUND CONDITIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
If a student withdraws from his/her course before the completion date he/she may be eligible for a refund of tuition fees. The following procedures and guidelines would apply:
To be eligible for any refund
The parents must apply in writing to the Board of Trustees setting out the special circumstances of the claim within one month of the last day of attendance.
If the application is made before the start of the course
Fees will be refunded in full less the administration charge of NZ $500.00. This includes circumstances where a student is not granted a student permit to attend Devon Intermediate School.
If the application is made after the start of the course, but before the second half of a course
Fees will be refunded less:
- An administration charge of NZ $500.00 (GST inclusive) one off.
- Costs to the school already incurred for tuition.
- Components of the fee already committed for the duration of the course.
- Specialist fees.
- Appropriate proportions of salaries for teachers and support staff (if applicable).
- Costs already incurred for the use of facilities and resources.
- Any other costs already incurred.
If the application is made after the second half of a course
- There will be no refund except under exceptional circumstances. (See also Compassionate Refunds below)
Compassionate Refunds
- In exceptional circumstances, refunds may be granted on compassionate grounds, (e.g. death of a close family member, serious illness, accident). All such refunds will be at the discretion of the Principal and the Board of Trustees.
If an international fee-paying student gains residency during the course
- No further fees are to be paid and a refund may be made on the unused portion of the prepaid fees. Documentation of residency must be provided within 14 days of it being granted.
The Board of Trustees will make no refund:
- Where a student has been stood down, suspended or excluded
- Where a student returns home for any reason other than serious illness or death of a close family member.
- If the enrolment application is found to be inaccurate in any way and the contract is terminated.
CURRICULUM
The curriculum at Devon Intermediate School features the following:
- A strong emphasis on Numeracy and Literacy.
- Recognition of Multiple Intelligences and learning styles.
- A balanced curriculum which encourages higher order thinking skills.
- Learning activities and experiences, both in and outside the school, which enables all students to experience success.
- A strong Technology curriculum offering a range of programmes where students design, make and assess their own work under the guidance of specialist teachers.
We focus on educating the whole child; emotionally, intellectually, socially and personally. Students are challenged with opportunities to participate in a range of academic, sporting, cultural, social and technology programmes.
Subjects offered
Devon Intermediate School is a State School. It offers programmes in all areas of the New Zealand National Curriculum. This includes:
- English (oral, written, reading, visual and listening)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Health
- Physical Education
- Technology
- Music
- Visual Arts
- Languages (Te Reo Maori)
Details of the New Zealand Curriculum can be found on the Ministry of Education’s website https://parents.education.govt.nz/primary-school/learning-at-school/new-zealand-curriculum/
Devon Intermediate School adds a new depth of learning opportunities to meet the broadening interests and developmental needs of adolescents.
Classroom Programmes
- English – oral, written, visual
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Health/Physical Education
- Information and Communication Technology
- Library Information Skills
- Music
- Art
- Technology (Food, Wood, Digital, Art, Performing Arts)
Cultural Programmes
- Choir
- Instrument Tuition
- Orchestra
- Kapa Haka Group – Te Rangitahi o Devon
- Contemporary Choir
- Arts Festival
- School Production
- Pasifika Group
Sports Programmes
- Recreational Sports Programme
- Weekly Elective Sports Options
- AIMS Sports Tournament
- Inter-Intermediate Sports Competition
- New Plymouth Sports Leagues: Netball, Basketball, Hockey, Touch Rugby
- Surf Lifesaving, Surfing, Skiing
- Cross Country and Athletics Events
Children with Special Abilities
- Independent Learning Class
- Enrichment Programmes
- Kiwi Competitions
- Kids Lit Quiz
- Technology Challenge
- Science Fair
- Otago Maths
Learning Support Programmes
- Rainbow Readers
- Reading Support
- Teacher Aide Support
- ESOL
- Student Support Centre
Health and Safety Programmes
The following programmes are included within the Health Curriculum at Devon Intermediate.
- Changes at Puberty
- Life Education
Classroom teachers teach most subjects, but other areas are taught by Specialist Teachers.
ORIENTATION PROGRAMME AND SUPPORT SERVICES
Students will be provided with a structured orientation process. The Deputy Principal, International Students is primarily responsible for the orientation of the students and their on-going welfare within the school community. This will be done in close liaison with the classroom teacher.
The Orientation Programme will include
- An initial orientation will be done prior to or during the enrolment interview with the prospective student and parents. On the student’s first day, he/she will be met by the Principal and shown their classroom. All students will be mainstreamed immediately upon arrival with a small group withdrawn for further orientation, English testing, and teaching as required. Assistance with academic planning is given if required.
- The classroom teacher will be responsible for ensuring the new student has a buddy group consisting of two or more other students whose role is to help the new student with daily routines, timetables, and activities during the breaks. He/She will also ensure the student knows where to find the medical room, canteen, toilets and other key areas of the school.
- Orientation will include school layout, rules and regulations, counseling, support systems and resources available.
- Information on banking, local travel systems, familiarisation with New Zealand laws, culture and learning will be provided.
- The Deputy Principal will continue to monitor the student during the first few weeks while the student settles into the class and the school. The Deputy Principal will also be available for support of the students, the classroom teacher, and the parents/caregiver.
- Once the initial period is over, the Deputy Principal will continue to monitor the student and his/her progress through informal meetings, ESOL teaching times, and where necessary through formal meetings with the student, the classroom teacher, and/or the parents/caregiver.
- Parents/Caregivers and students need to know that Devon Intermediate School has an ‘Open Door’ policy. At any time they may make an appointment to see the classroom teacher, the Deputy Principal (International Students), or the Principal to discuss any queries or concerns.
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
The following staff members are available for assistance and support:
Marissa Hoyes, Executive Officer, First Aid
Phone: 7585266 Email: mhoyes@devonint.school.nz
Zara Dobson, Office Administrator, First Aid
Phone: 7585266 Email: zdobson@devonint.school.nz
Debra Young, Deputy Principal, (International Students)
Phone: 7585266 Email: dyoung@devonint.school.nz
Shelley Orme, Deputy Principal
Phone: 7585266 Email: sorme@devonint.school.nz
Jenny Gellen, Principal
Phone: 7585266 Email: principal@devonint.school.nz
WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU HAVE A GRIEVANCE?
We want you to be happy at Devon Intermediate School. There are times however when things do not go smoothly or as well as we may like. Here are some ideas about what you can do about it.
Problems with a teacher
- Make a time to talk to your classroom teacher about your concern. If your concern is the classroom teacher, make a time to talk to the Principal, Mrs. Gellen.
Problems with school friends
- Take the time to talk to your class teacher quietly about your concern.
- You can also talk with one of our Deputy Principals, Mrs. Young or Ms Orme. They are very helpful, especially with broken friendships. You can make an appointment at the Office through Marissa or Zara.
At all the above meetings, notes will be taken of your concerns and of the solutions put in place.
If, after all the above have been tried, it is felt that your problem has not been resolved, then the student/parent may contact https://www.istudent.org.nz/contact-us
You must be able to show them that you have tried to get the school to act before you contact them. They will consult the school to see if anything can be done to help you.
If you do have a problem, please ask for help while it is still a little problem. Do not wait for it to become a big problem.
If you are not confident that your English is good enough you can always bring a friend who has better English.
We hope your stay at Devon Intermediate School is a happy one.
Our school Information Booklet is enclosed but here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
1. When is Devon Intermediate School open?
a. Our school is open at 8.15am every morning during term time, Monday to Friday. Lessons start at 8.45am and school closes for the day at 3pm, Tuesday 8.45am to 2.30pm.
b. The school terms are given in the main school prospectus along with public holidays when the school is closed.
2. What do I need for the classes?
a. Make sure that you always have a pencil, pen, ruler, and eraser with you every day. Your teacher will tell you what exercise books you need.
3. What if I am sick or cannot come to school?
a. If you are sick and cannot come to school, make sure that your parents contact the school to let the school know. When you return to school you will need to have a written note explaining your absence.
b. If you feel sick at school or if you hurt yourself at school, you need to go to the Office and tell Marissa or Zara who will look after you.
4. What if I change my address or phone number?
a. If you change your address or phone number your parents need to let the school know by giving you a written note to take to your teacher or the school office.
5. What about breaks and meals?
a. There is a break in the morning from 10.30am to 10.50am and a break for lunch from 12.30pm to 1.15pm.
b. Devon Intermediate has opt-ed into the Ka Ora, Ka Ako: Healthy Lunches in Schools Programme. Students are provided with a healthy lunch each day, although will need to provide a snack for morning tea. Students are not to bring fizzy drinks, confectionery or chewing gum to school.
6. If I bring my lunch to school, what do I do if it goes missing?
a. If your lunch disappears from your bag or desk, let your classroom teacher know as soon as you find out. He or she will do what they can to find your lunch. They will also make sure that you do not go hungry at lunchtime.
7. What do I do if I am bullied?
a. If you are teased or bullied at school, coming to school, or going home from school, you must let your classroom teacher or the Principal know as soon as you can. We do not like bullying and will do everything we can to prevent you from being bullied.
8. May I use my e-mail at school?
a. E-mail can only be used under supervision. This also applies to using the Internet. A teacher must be present to make sure that you do not hit an unsuitable site.
MANA
RESPECT – BE CARING AND CONSIDERATE
- Use polite and appropriate language with a suitable tone.
- Treat others as you wish to be treated.
- Accept and value differences.
- Use manners at all times.
- Care for all property.
- Follow instructions immediately.
DILIGENCE – ACHIEVE YOUR PERSONAL BEST
- Do everything to the best of your ability.
- Right place, right time, right gear.
- Perseverance – finish what you start.
- Wear the correct uniform with pride.
INTEGRITY – BE HONEST AND TRUSTWORTHY
- Take responsibility for your own choices and actions.
- Speak the truth with kindness.
- Honour your commitments.
SERVICE – HELP AND BE ACTIVELY INVOLVED
- Contribute for the right reasons.
- Be positively involved.
- Have an attitude of gratitude.
- Use your initiative – help before you are asked.
In our school WE TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING, remembering it is ‘on loan’ and a privilege, not a right.
I WILL:
- Take responsibility for the state of my desk, classroom furniture, and equipment.
- Take good care of all books supplied, which includes all library books and school texts.
- Use sports and P.E. gear for the right purpose and look after it.
- Do my share of keeping our classroom, cloakroom, and grounds clean and tidy.
In our school, every student has the RIGHT TO LEARN and every teacher has a RIGHT TO TEACH.
I WILL:
- Keep my voice soft to avoid disturbing others when I’m talking.
- Be prepared by having what I need for each subject – pens, pencils, ruler, P.E. gear, and other equipment as required.
- Avoid talking over others.
- Find an appropriate time for talking to the teacher, especially when he/she is working with other students.
- When I need to, move around the class in a quiet orderly manner.
- Do my very best to stay on task.
- Make every effort to complete all learning tasks, including homework.
- Line up with my class promptly when the bell rings.
In our school, every student has the right to a SAFE ENVIRONMENT in which to learn and play.
I WILL:
- Ensure I am not involved in any bullying.
- Allow no physical or mental abuse; put downs or insulting language.
- Participate only in positive interactions – there will be no threatening behaviour.
- Stay in my lunch eating area until dismissed by the duty teacher.
- Move around my classroom and around the school in a quiet and sensible manner so the learning and recreation of others will not be disturbed.
PROCEDURES THAT APPLY WHEN A STUDENT WITHDRAWS / IS NOT ATTENDING THEIR COURSE
If a student withdraws from school
- It must be in writing by the parents prior to the student’s last day, giving the date of the final day of attendance and the reason for leaving and the Immigration Service will be notified.
- The Refund Policy for International Students shall apply.
If a child is not attending their course
- In the case of absences, the parent/caregiver must follow the normal school procedure of notifying the school in the morning of the first day of the absence and following this up with a written note on the first day of the student’ return to school. If the absence can be foretold – e.g. an appointment – then the school is to be informed in writing the day prior to the appointment or earlier.
- Where the student is absent with no reason then the parents will initially be contacted by the school for an explanation. Where a student is being truant from school, the Principal will have a meeting with the parents to rectify the situation. If the Truancy continues then a family meeting will be held and contingencies put in place. If this does not rectify the situation then the enrolment will be terminated and the Immigration Service notified.
- If the student does not attend for more than 20 consecutive school days then the school will, in writing, notify the parents/caregivers that the enrolment has been terminated and the Immigration Service notified. However if the parents have previously notified the school in writing that the student will be absent for a period of time, with the full reason for the absence, the place shall be held, providing all fees have been paid in full, as required.
- If the student is withdrawn from or ceases to attend the school the Board of Trustees will notify the New Zealand Immigration Service.
CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH TUITION MAY BE TERMINATED
- Where a student is absent or consistently truanting from school (see above) then the signatory will terminate the enrolment.
- If a student’s behaviour is of an unacceptable level, then a meeting with the student, the parents/caregiver, and the school will be arranged. If the behaviour does not improve, written notification will be given to the parents warning of the danger of termination of the enrolment. If there is no further improvement, the parents and the student will be notified in writing that the student must leave at the end of that term, or earlier if the school decides, and will not be eligible to return the following term. There will be no refund of fees paid if this occurs.
- An ‘acceptable level of behaviour’ would be seen as following the school rules and meeting the school’s Expectations of Students and Teachers, as outlined in the prospectus.
- If an enrolment application is found to be inaccurate in any way the contract may be terminated at the school’s discretion.
- Upon termination of enrolment, the Immigration Service will be notified as required.