ST. PETER’S COLLEGE

2018

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Information Booklet CONTENTS

Contact Details Page 4 Bell Times and Important Dates for Term 1, 2018 Page 4 College Crest and Vision Statement Page 5 Principal’s Welcome Page 6 College Hymn Page 7 House System Page 8 House Leaders Page 9 Introduction to Transition Support Page 10 Role of the Learning Advisor Page 11-13 House Patron, Prayer, Crest & Motto Page 14-17 The Petrine Ethos Page 18 Religious Education at St. Peter’s College Page 19 Regulations/Consequences Page 20-21 Uniform Policy Page 22 Student Leadership Page 23 Student Recognition Page 24 Camps & Retreats at St. Peter’s College Page 25-26 Student Extra-Curricular Programs Page 27 Discovery Centre & Library, Homework Club & Maths Support Page 28 College Administration Page 29 Student Record Book Page 30-34 Homework Tips for Students Page 35-36 Student Counselling and Welfare Page 37 Bullying and Harassment Policy – Parent Information Page 38-40 Bullying and Harassment Policy – Student Information Page 41-43 Social Media Etiquette and Guidelines Agreement Page 44 Drug Education Policy – Student Information Page 45-48 Parents & Friends Page 49-50 Parent Resources Page 51

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ST. PETER’S COLLEGE

Cranbourne West Campus Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne 3977 Telephone: (03) 5990 7777 Facsimile: (03) 5996 8277 [email protected] www.stpeters.vic.edu.au Office Hours: 8.00am – 4.30pm

Cranbourne East Campus 55 MacKillop Way, Clyde North 3978 Telephone: (03) 5990 7777 Facsimile: (03) 5996 8277 [email protected] www.stpeters.vic.edu.au Office Hours: 8.00am – 4.30pm PRINCIPAL Contact Names: Mr Chris Black - PRINCIPAL Mr Mathew Williams - DEPUTY PRINCIPAL MISSION & CATHOLIC IDENTITY Mr David Hansen - DEPUTY PRINCIPAL HEAD OF CAMPUS – CRANBOURNE WEST Ms Julie Banda - DEPUTY PRINCIPAL HEAD OF CAMPUS – CRANBOURNE EAST Ms Marlene Jorgensen - DEPUTY PRINCIPAL TEACHING & LEARNING

College Bell Times:

Tutor Group 8.50am - 9.05am Period 1 9.08am - 10.08am Period 2 10.11am - 11.11am RECESS 11.11am - 11.31am Period 3 11.35am - 12.35pm Period 4 12.38pm - 1.38pm LUNCH 1.38pm - 2.16pm Period 5 2.20pm - 3.20pm

Important Dates for Term 1, 2018

YEAR 7 WEST AND EAST CAMPUS UPCOMING DATES JANUARY 31 Year 7 & 12 Students Commence FEBRUARY 1 Year 8, 9, 10 & 11 Students Commence 1 Student Photos 2 Opening Academic Assembly 12 East Campus – Swimming Carnival 13 Opening Mass 15 West Campus – Swimming Carnival 20 East Campus – House Welcome Evening 22 West Campus – House Welcome Evening MARCH 5-7 West Campus – Year 7 Camp 7-9 East Campus – Year 7 Camp 12 Labour Day – Public Holiday 26 Year 7 Immunisations 28 Parent Teacher Interviews 4pm-8pm 29 Parent Teacher Interviews 9am-1pm End of Term 1

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THE COLLEGE CREST

The College colours are Burgundy, Grey and Gold. Burgundy is appropriate to St. Peter’s, being a colour associated with both martyrdom and leadership within the Church. Gold is the colour in which the Keys are portrayed on the Papal flag. The Crest features the Keys of the Kingdom as promised to Peter, on a grey background, which represents the storm. Below is the fishing boat with its mast in the form of a Cross, the Net spreads out from the fishing boat… “I will make you fishers of all people”.

The motto, ‘Be Not Afraid’ appears significantly and frequently in scripture, reminding us of God’s constant presence and help. Specifically we recall Jesus speaking to Peter as he walks on the water.

VISION STATEMENT 2015-2018

“Be Not Afraid”

As a Catholic community, we aspire to lead in faith, guide with love and inspire through learning.

MISSION STATEMENTS 2015- 2018

CATHOLIC IDENTITY Walking in the footsteps of St. Peter, we will celebrate out Catholic faith founded in Christ’s message of love, justice and service

LEARNING AND TEACHING Jesus, as our first teacher, revealed our essential mission as a Catholic College, to actively provide opportunities for excellence, engagement and achievement across all areas and endeavours of learning. We commit ourselves to personalising the development of each individual’s education within our school community.

LEARNING AND WELLBEING Drawing upon the Christian example of our eight House Patrons, we commit to the enrichment of the whole person. Based firmly on Gospel values, we dedicate ourselves to the comprehensive pastoral care of students and staff.

LEADERSHIP With the servant leadership of Peter as our model, we aspire to strengthen the qualities of all those in our community so that they may lead with wisdom, compassion and courage.

SUSTAINABILITY & GROWTH Built on the confidence of a community that is rapidly growing and changing, St. Peter’s College treasures its proud history within the Cranbourne region. We commit ourselves to embracing the opportunities that enable the appropriate expansion of resources to meet the needs of our 21st Century community.

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WELCOME

Dear Parents,

On behalf of the St. Peter’s College Community, I extend to you a warm welcome and our commitment to providing a quality Catholic secondary education, which challenges our students to be the best they can be.

This “Induction Booklet” brings together the major policy documents and procedures that apply at the College. Our aim is to apply them consistently, and they are inspired by our need to educate the whole person, spiritually, socially, intellectually and physically. We work to create an environment with our students, where they understand both their right to and responsibility for dignity and respect for all members of our community.

Two-way communication between home and school is essential to achieving our stated aims, and I am always happy to meet every new family from Year 7 to Year 12. Our House system also supports partnership and communication between home and school, by ensuring that our families and students will work with the same House leader and Learning Advisor as they journey from Year 7 to 12.

We provide regular House-based Information Evenings, Parent/Teacher interviews and Careers Nights, as ways of promoting positive communication between home and school. I emphasise that parents are also free, at any stage, to request a meeting with appropriate staff.

The Student Record Book, College Newsletter and website are other means by which parents can keep up to date with school news and events, or communicate information to House Leaders and Learning Advisors.

I also extend an invitation to all parents to attend the Parents & Friends Committee Meetings, which are advertised in the Newsletter and held twice each term. The meetings are a great way to meet other parents from the school and include a guest speaker from the teaching staff at each meeting.

Please do not hesitate to ask should any of these materials require clarification. I welcome you once again to our College community.

Yours sincerely,

Mr Chris Black B.Comm; Grad.Dip.Ed; Grad.Dip.Student Welfare; Cert.Theol.MEDL PRINCIPAL

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COLLEGE HYMN

Be Not Afraid

You shall cross the barren desert but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way. You shall speak your words to foreign men and they will understand. You shall see the face of God and live.

CHORUS Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come follow Me and I will give you rest.

If you pass through raging waters in the sea you shall not drown – if you walk amid burning flames you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all.

CHORUS Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come follow Me and I will give you rest.

Blessed are your poor, for the kingdom shall be theirs. Blest are you that weep and mourn, for one day you shall laugh. And if wicked men insult and hate you all because of Me, Blessed, Blessed are you!

CHORUS Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come follow Me and I will give you rest.

(Robert J) Bob Dufford

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HOUSE SYSTEM

In 2012, St. Peter’s College introduced a House System which provides a vertical pastoral care structure for all students from Years 7- 12.

Your child will be allocated to one of the eight Houses during their time at the College. This House is not only for this child, but also for all children within your family that attend St. Peter’s College. It is essentially your Family’s House, and your primary link with all aspects of your children’s College life.

Why A House System?

Extensive study and practice has shown that the House System delivers:

 Increased connectedness and engagement in students to (with?) their House and the College  Learning Advisors and House Leaders feel they are building long-term relationships with students – a relationship that is not terminal  Tutor Groups have fewer students  Consistency of contact for parents over the student’s time at the College, especially for ongoing welfare and academic needs of students  Reduction in the incidence of bullying and unruly behaviour around congested areas of the campus, e.g. locker areas  Increased participation in extra-curricular activities promoting House Spirit because of the sense of belonging to that House  Enhanced Student Leadership  Positive Peer influence. Relief from peer pressure that can occurs amongst same age groups

Mr Chris Black PRINCIPAL

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HOUSE LEADERS

East Campus

HOUSE HOUSE LEADER ASSISI Mr Jean Paul Antoine AUGUSTINE Ms Jodie Connell AVILA Ms Olivia Barrett GLOWREY Mr Andrew Sambell KOLBE Mr Ian Ellwood MACKILLOP Mr Ernie Rijis MARIAN Ms Rebecca Stewart ROMERO Ms Helena Gallant

West Campus

HOUSE HOUSE LEADER ASSISI Mr Peter Brannan AUGUSTINE Mr Gerard Brown AVILA Mr Andrew McMellon GLOWREY Ms Mary Armstrong KOLBE Ms Michele McArdle MACKILLOP Ms Cathy Michael MARIAN Mr David Bardi ROMERO Mr Mark Sinclair

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TRANSITION SUPPORT

The role of the Pastoral Care Leader at West Campus and East Campus, is to oversee the wellbeing of all Year 7 students as they make the transition from Primary School to Secondary School.

They work to develop programs and procedures to ensure that individual and cohort learning and the pastoral needs of all students entering Year 7 are understood by the following departments and teams within the College:

 Welfare  House Leaders & Learning Advisors  Curriculum Team  Learning Enhancement Centre  Administration

Please feel free to contact us with any concerns you may have during the year in relation to your son or daughter’s transition.

Ms Fiona McKenna Ms Janelle McRae [email protected] [email protected] PASTORAL CARE LEADER PASTORAL CARE LEADER WEST CAMPUS EAST CAMPUS

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LEARNING ADVISOR

The Learning Advisor is the most important pastoral and administrative contact in the College. The Learning Advisor will have contact with your son or daughter on a daily basis. Their role in ensuring their wellbeing and learning cannot be overemphasised.

THE ROLE OF THE LEARNING ADVISOR

The Learning Advisor has a dual role within the organisational structure of St. Peter’s College:

 Pastoral Care / Discipline / Support of Learning student learning Careers Enrichment  Administration Advisor Centre

They provide an important link to many of the key support personnel at the school. With any concerns you have in regard to your child, your Leaning Advisor will be able to direct you towards Administration Learning Advisor House the most appropriate person or resource. Leader WHO SHOULD I TALK TO IN REGARD TO THE Student Curriculum Well-being FOLLOWING?

Student Absences

Ring the College Office Absentee line prior to 9.30am to notify of a student absence. Follow this up with a note in the student record book, which will be checked by the Learning Advisor the following day. If you have any concerns about your child’s regular attendance at school, contact the Learning Advisor. Note: Should you fail to contact the College regarding a student absence, you will receive an SMS message to confirm your child’s absence and the Learning Advisor will contact you during the course of the day to verify the absence.

Concern with Behaviour

The Learning Advisor is one of a number of people who can assist you in this regard. The nature of your concern will determine whom you end up speaking to, but the Learning Advisor is always a good first point of contact.

Staff who can also assist you in this area will include:

 The Subject Teacher  House Leader  Student Counsellor  Head of Campus  Pastoral Care Leader

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Concerns with academic performance

Concerns with regular completion of homework or general academic performance should be dealt with as soon as possible. If your concerns relate to your child’s performance in a specific subject, then contact that subject teacher directly. If your concerns are more widespread, then make contact with the Learning Advisor.

Staff who can also assist you in this area include:  Subject Teacher  Learning Advisor  House Leader  Teaching and Learning Coach  Learning Enrichment Co-ordinator  Careers Advisor

How Should I Contact The School?

Student Record Book

For daily contact with the Learning Advisor, House Leader or Subject Teacher, the Student Record Book provides an effective means of communication.

Phone: 03 5990 7777

Teaching Staff can be contacted by phone during the course of each school day. Due to teaching commitments, they are not always available immediately, but will respond to messages at the earliest opportunity.

Emails

Teaching staff can also be contacted via email. Due to teaching commitments, please allow time for staff to respond at their earliest opportunity. A list of staff email addresses can be found on the College website: www.stpeters.vic.edu.au

Email addresses are the first name initial followed by full surname. Example of an email address is below: Joe Bloggs would be [email protected]

Interviews

Interviews can be arranged with teaching staff (contact staff through administration). Please allow a few days for these interviews to be scheduled.

Note: Staff will not always be available for unscheduled interviews. Parents are advised to make appointments in advance.

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Important Contact Times

Ongoing communication between home and the Learning Advisor is vital to ensuring the wellbeing of your son or daughter. The following procedures and times have been set aside during the course of the school year to ensure that this process is occurring effectively:

 Weekly signing of Student Record Book

 House Welcome & Information Nights

 Parent Teacher Interviews

 Information Nights

 SMART Protocol Interviews

(See Student Record Book for all Calendar Dates for 2018).

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HOUSE CRESTS

Assisi House - Green

Saint Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) The Catholic Church as the patron saint of animals and ecology honours Saint Francis of Assisi. Francis was born at Assisi in Umbria in 1181. He returned to Assisi and began to care for the sick. Francis abandoned all his rights and possessions, including his clothes. In his life and preaching, Francis emphasised simplicity and poverty, relying on God’s providence rather than worldly goods. Saint Francis Assisi worked or begged for what he needed to live, and any surplus was given to the poor.

Assisi House Prayer: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace Where there is hatred, let me sow love Where there is injury, pardon Where there is doubt, faith Where there is despair, hope Where there is darkness, light Where there is sadness, joy O Divine Master grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console to be understood, as to understand to be loved, as to love For it is in giving that we receive It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life Amen

Augustine House - Maroon

Augustine of Hippo (354-430) Saint Augustine was the Bishop of Hippo and Doctor of the Church. Accepted by most scholars to be the most important figure in the ancient Western Church, Saint Augustine was born in Tagaste, Numidia in North Africa. His mother was a Christian, but his father remained a Pagan until late in life. Augustine drifted through several philosophical systems before converting to Christianity at the age of thirty-one.

Augustine House Prayer: Augustine, you said in your prayer, “My heart is restless O Lord until it rests in you”. We pray that we may imitate you in seeking our rest in the heart of God. May we seek as you did to establish the “City Of God” and to grow in faith all our days. Amen

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Avila House - White

Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582) Also called Saint Teresa of Jesus, baptized as Teresa Sánchez de Cepeda y Ahumada, was a prominent Spanish Mystic, Roman Catholic Saint, Carmelite Nun, Writer of the Counter Reformation and Theologian of Contemplative Life through Mental Prayer. In 1622, forty years after her death, she was canonised by Pope Gregory XV, and in 1970 named a Doctor of the Church by Pope Paul VI.

Avila House Prayer: Saint Teresa you were known as a “Woman for Others” and a servant of God. In prayer, you said, “Lord Christ, you have no hands on earth but ours.” We pray that our hands may do good for God and our hearts may be one with yours in a life of service Amen

Glowrey House - Purple

Sister Mary of the Sacred Heart Glowrey (1887-1957) Mary Glowrey was born in 1887 at Birregurra in Victoria, and graduated in 1910 with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. After completing her residency in New Zealand, she returned to build her own successful private practice in Melbourne.

God’s call, a chance reading in 1915 of a pamphlet about the appalling death rate amongst babies in India fundamentally changed the direction of her life. Falling to her knees, Mary finished reading the pamphlet and knew God was calling her to help the women and children of India. In January 1920, Mary sailed for India to become a medical missionary with the Congregation of the Society of Jesus, Mary and Joseph in Guntur. Mary was said to radiate Christ by word and example. It was announced in 2010 that Mary’s cause for canonisation was underway. In 2013, she was recognised by the Church as a Servant of God.

Glowrey House Prayer Sister Mary, you are model for us as we try to follow what God asks of us. You were known as a gentle healer who had a deep love for those in need. We pray that the Lord will open our eyes and our hearts to those around us who need our love and service. Amen

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Kolbe House - Silver

Saint Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941) Saint Maximilian Kolbe was Polish with German ethnic heritage, and a Conventual Franciscan friar. During World War II, he volunteered to die in place of a stranger in the Nazi German concentration camp of Auschwitz, located in German-occupied Poland.

At the end of July 1941, three prisoners disappeared from the Auschwitz, prompting SS-Hauptsturmführer Karl Fritzsch, the Deputy Camp Commander, to choose 10 men to be starved to death in an underground bunker, in order to deter further escape attempts. When one of the selected men, Franciszek Gajowniczek, cried out, “My wife! My children!” Kolbe volunteered to take his place. After two weeks of dehydration and starvation, only Kolbe remained alive. The guards wanted the bunker emptied and so gave Kolbe a lethal injection of carbolic acid. Some who were present at the injection say that he raised his left arm and calmly waited for the injection. His remains were cremated on August 15, the feast of the Assumption of Mary.

Kolbe House Prayer: Lord, give us the gentle courage of Saint Maximilian who upheld what is right in the face of evil. In giving his life for another, Saint Maximilian imitated you when you said, “Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his friend.” May we see your face in those we serve. Amen MacKillop House - Blue

Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop (1842-1909). Mary MacKillop was a young woman with a dream to make a difference in our world. Her dream encompassed opening simple schools where there was no class distinction, offering refuge to the most neglected, and bringing practical help to families. She embodies all that is best in our Australian nation and its people. Her spirit and values continue to inspire young people today to make a difference in these times. Even at the time of her death, those who knew her or knew of her extraordinary work, spoke openly of her holiness.

MacKillop House Prayer: Saint Mary of The Cross, we pray to you as a Saint of our land who lived and worked in our towns and cities. You were committed to the poor who lacked so much, you gave them dignity, you educated them and you did this to glorify God. May we always look to you as a guide to a life of faith and service. Amen

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Marian House - Gold

Mary the Mother of God, Mother of the Church Mary of Nazareth, as shown in the gospels, inspires us to listen and respond to God’s call with wholehearted generosity and courage. Mary is presented as the true, first disciple who does the will of God. Her “yes” to God’s request leads to Jesus’ presence among us. In Mary, Luke the evangelist emphasises God’s preference for the poor and the little ones, Luke 1:39-56 The Magnificat, the Prayer of the Poor.

Marian House Prayer: Mary you are for us a model of faithful discipleship. We pray that our lives may be lived as generously as yours in the service of God. As you said “yes” to God, you said “My soul glorifies the Lord.” May we give glory in our words and in our actions. Amen

Romero House - Red

Archbishop Oscar Romero (1917 – 1980) Oscar Romero was a Priest of the Roman Catholic Church in El Salvador. As Archbishop, his conscience led him to embrace a non-violent form of liberation. He was martyred for his non-violent advocacy of liberation. In 1980, he was assassinated by gunshot shortly after his homily. In 1997, a cause for beatification and canonisation into sainthood was opened for Romero, and Pope John Paul II bestowed upon him the title ‘Servant of God’. This process continues.

Romero House Prayer: Lord Jesus we pray that we may have the burning passion for human rights as Archbishop Romero had. During his life he said to us “Who will speak for the poor and the lame? Who will speak for the oppressed and imprisoned? Who will speak if you don’t?” May we always speak with the courage of Oscar Romero. Amen

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OUR PETRINE ETHOS

St. Peter’s College, as with any Catholic school, has at the heart of its being, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It lights our approach to learning and to living. Consequently, when we say we embrace the Petrine Ethos, we embrace it as St Peter embraced the teachings of Jesus, in a human way, as a part of a living community of faith.

As a Catholic College named after St Peter, we endeavour to grow in faith and in our example to the community by following the example of Peter. A lot is made of Peter being seen as the First Pope. However, his beginnings and his later life were not privileged. Peter lived and grew in a small fishing town on the shores of the Sea of Galilee named Capernaum. He was a fisherman, not a man of great learning but a practical man. When Peter was called by Jesus, he had endured a hard unprofitable night of fishing. Jesus told him to go out and “let down your nets into the deep”. Somehow, Peter saw something in Jesus, his reply was “Master we have worked all night and caught nothing, but if you say so we will lower the nets.” LK5:4-5

When the huge catch came in, Peter said “Depart from me Lord, I am a sinful man.” LK5:8. Peter is a complex figure. When Jesus calls for him to walk across the water to him, he begins and then has doubts and begins to sink. Then we have the denial of Jesus by Peter while Jesus is being tried. Peter knew well his failings, he knew that Jesus was only too aware of them, but he never lost his faith. Jesus gave Peter the command, “Feed my sheep, look after my lamb.”: Jn21:15-19 he said to Peter “You are the rock, upon this I will build my Church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven……” Matt16:18-19 “. What greater sign of trust could be given than these words of Jesus? What greater mission could be given to Peter than to found Christ’s Church and to be its shepherd?

We acknowledge the call and commissioning of Peter as a call to us all. We embrace the call of Jesus to “Be Not Afraid” and go forward, confident in the guiding presence of God. We embrace the humanity of Peter, a constant reminder that God works through each of us, imperfect though we are. Peter was constant in his endeavour to live out his mission. We at St. Peter’s College pray that we may faithfully live out our mission of feeding the College community with the life giving Word of God.

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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Religious Education is an important part of life at St. Peter’s College.

At St. Peter’s College, we pride ourselves on educating the whole person. We believe that whatever the faith background of any person there is an important part of each of us - a religious part.

Over a student’s journey at St. Peter’s College, as part of their studies, your child will learn about Jesus, the Church that Jesus left behind, morality, inspiration, reconciliation, other religions and peoples, and about the God that has chosen to enter the lives of people.

Religious Education at St. Peter’s College is a classroom event. Students will study Religious Education in every year of their education. In Year 7, the students will look at Jesus, the Early Church, how the Church works and about Saint Peter himself. The hope is that here at St. Peter’s College when we show special regard to Saint Peter. As students grow, they will also learn about the broad role of religion and the Catholic Christian Faith in the lives of people. In relation to St Peter, we hope that while St Peter was well known for his failures, he was also known for his leadership, his energy and his loyalty. Our aim is that students of this College will leave us as leaders and fully rounded people, willing to have a go and not be confined by their failures. They will be people of energy, integrity and loyalty.

However, Religious Education is not only a classroom event. Your child’s Religious Education will involve whole College events like Opening Masses, Social Justice Activities, and a range of activities in helping others both within and outside our College borders. We at the College like to think Religious Education is as much about action as it is about what we learn. What we learn, however, is the ‘stuff’ that guides what we do.

Everyone at St. Peter’s College looks forward to the new families coming into our College Community.

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RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES & REGULATIONS

All student regulations have at their core the aim to uphold the four core Rights and Responsibilities:

Right: To be treated with dignity and respect Responsibility: To treat others with dignity and respect

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN IN PRACTICE?  Speak politely to each other  Speak respectfully to and about each other  Treat each other fairly and justly  Deal honestly with other people  Respect each other’s personal property  Respect personal space  Respect the community property we share as members of St. Peter’s College community - computers, books, grounds, buildings, furniture, lockers, tools, equipment

THEREFORE:

Bullying, rumours, vandalism, theft, rudeness, swearing, arguing, lying and discrimination, are not acceptable.

Right: To feel safe Responsibility: To behave in a manner which will protect and promote the safety of others

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN IN PRACTICE?  Follow the special rules established for rooms like Science Labs, Kitchens, Tech, Art & Visual Communication rooms  Follow the special rules for Physical Education/Sport classes and activities  Follow the procedures for lining up, entering and exiting classrooms  Respect that some areas of the College grounds are out of bounds  Behave respectfully towards each other

THEREFORE:

Behaving in a way which threatens your or others safety, is not acceptable.

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Right: To learn Responsibility: To contribute to effective learning of others through positive and co-operative behaviour

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN IN PRACTICE?  Be on time and attend school each day  Be on time for and attend all classes each day at school  Be attentive in class and participate in all activities in each class  Be prepared for each class - bring all books and material to class and have homework completed  Meet deadlines for the completion of work  Ask for assistance from your teacher if you are having difficulty with your work  Work co-operatively with the teacher and other students in the class  Assist other students in the class

THEREFORE:

Disruptive behaviour, not completing homework, failing to meet deadlines, unauthorised absence from class, not being prepared for class, are not acceptable.

Right: To benefit from the reputation of the College Responsibility: To promote and uphold the good name of the College

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN IN PRACTICE?  Wear the College uniform correctly both inside and outside of the College  Respect the community established regulations about hairstyles, facial hair, jewellery  Contribute to the life of the College by becoming involved in College and wider community activities  Act in a respectful manner to people and property whilst outside the College – this includes whilst travelling on buses to and from school each day  Be courteous, welcoming and helpful to visitors to the College

THEREFORE:

Non-regulation uniform, inappropriate hairstyles, additional jewellery, unshaven faces, rudeness, vandalism, bullying, are not acceptable.

The Student Regulations can be found in the Student Record Book.

Each student signs a commitment to these Student Regulations at the beginning of each school year.

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UNIFORM POLICY

Here at St. Peter’s College uniform is a daily reality for all of our families and students. We are passionate about our uniform because of the immense benefits we know it can deliver to each of our students.

Why Do We Have A Uniform At St. Peter’s College?

At St. Peter’s College, students are expected to maintain a high standard of dress and grooming which:  Promotes school unity and pride  Promotes individual pride and helps prepare students for employment  Takes away the need to keep up with the latest fashion trends  Presents an appropriate image of our College to the broader community

We ask that all parents embrace our College uniform and the role it plays in your child’s day-to-day life at St. Peter’s College. With your support, your child will soon become comfortable with the uniform and the regulations concerning their appearance, and develop a greater pride in themselves and their appearance within the College community. This is not only limited to items of clothing, but also encompasses all aspects of appearance and grooming, including but not limited to: hairstyles, make- up, nails, piercings, tattoos, bags, jewellery and chewing gum.

Zero Tolerance

A Zero Tolerance Policy applies to breaches of School Uniform Regulations at St. Peter’s College. Under this policy the following will occur:

 VCE & VCAL students in breach of the College uniform regulations will be sent home once parents have been contacted, indicating that they cannot return to the College until the breach has been rectified.

 Year 7 to 10 students in breach of the College uniform will be excluded from classes for the day, and parents contacted. Students will arrive home at the end of the school day with a note in their Student Record Book indicating that they cannot return to the College until the breach has been rectified.

The only exception to this policy is on evident medical, cultural or religious grounds, where a student is unable to follow the uniform and appearance policy of the College.

You can find full details of the College uniform requirements and regulations and where to purchase on the College website www.stpeters.vic.edu.au and on Schoolbox in My Groups under the heading Student Information.

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STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Every student at St. Peter’s College experiences the opportunity to be involved in leadership. Each House offers the opportunity for students to become leaders, either as House Captains (Year 11 or 12 students) or as Forum Leaders. The role of the House Forum is to meet regularly:  To assist the House Leader in the organisation of the House and student participation at sports carnivals  To plan and co-ordinate the lunchtime house sports program  To communicate the business of the House Forum and the SRC to the appropriate student and school forums and to the year level via assemblies and the tutor groups  Develop proposals from ideas and issues raised at house forums  Present house proposals to the SRC  Assist in the planning, co-ordination and management of house and school events The Student Representative Council (SRC) is made up of the elected school leaders – the School Captains, Sports Captains, Environment Captain, Social Justice Captain, Liturgy Captain, Arts Captain, and a selection of the House Forum Leaders. The SRC meets every three weeks to discuss student issues from all year levels, as well as the programs initiated by the elected school leaders

At St. Peter’s College, we see leadership as a skill that should be developed and supported. Leadership training is provided for all our students in Years 9 to 12 and our SRC students. Year 9 students do the peer support leadership program in preparation for Year 10. Year 10 students have leadership reflection day mid-year, and Year 11 students attend a leadership-training day at the end of Term 3 in preparation for the College and House Captain elections. All elected leaders then undertake further leadership training at the end of each year. Many students are leaders at St. Peter’s College without the formal title. Leadership is experienced through service to others. An example of this is our College Outreach Program, co-ordinated by the Social Justice Captain and members of the Social Justice Group, which involves fundraising for Project Compassion along with other activities aimed at helping others less fortunate than ourselves. Often leadership is simply being of service to others in the College community through acts of kindness, cooperation and support. Our key beliefs and values about student leadership are set out below in our rationale. We strongly encourage all students at St. Peter’s College to take up the challenge and responsibility of Student Leadership.

Student Leadership Rationale

Our patron saint, Peter, was made the leader of Christ’s Church on earth. He led by example with people of all races and beliefs to bring the good news for the Kingdom to all. He worked tirelessly in the service of others. Similarly, the students of St. Peter’s College are called to act as servant-leaders to the College and the wider community, following Peter’s example. In accepting their roles, student leaders at St. Peter’s College are encouraged to aspire to be leaders who:  Lead and serve the College community through word and action  Are trust-worthy, responsible and supportive of the College ethos  Encourage, motivate and challenge other members of the College community to work together  Honour what has been established and explore and initiate new ways of enhancing the life of the College;  Are worthy ambassadors for the College in the wider community

The staff members of the College community are called to provide the environment and opportunities for students to explore the challenges of leadership. We encourage the student leaders to live by our College motto, “Be Not Afraid”, developing confidence in their own leadership style and their ability to work for the good of others.

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STUDENT RECOGNITION

Our Vision Statement challenges us to provide an environment that “encourages and guides the growth of all…”

The growth and well-being of the students in our care is one of the primary responsibilities of this College. In order to nurture this growth, we seek to take every opportunity to recognise when students have achieved academic excellence and attempted, to the best of their ability, to meet our expectations for behaviour, leadership, academic performance. These students will be recognised in the following ways:

Postcards for Excellence & Growth

Where excellence in achievement or growth has been achieved in a subject area through a project, essay or any other assessment task, then a postcard for excellence will be awarded to that student. The teacher outlining the achievement to a family member nominated by the recipient will send the postcard.

College Assemblies

At whole House and Campus Assemblies, opportunities will be taken to recognise excellence in all areas of College life.

Student Record Book Stamp for Outstanding Effort

Awarded by teaching staff in recognition of an outstanding effort in the areas of: student leadership, academic studies or contribution to the school community.

House Student Merit Certificates

House School Spirit House School Spirit Award for students who have consistently supported, contributed to and been involved in, multiple activities of the College throughout the school year such as House Activities, St. Peter’s Day, Harmony Day, RUOK? Day, College Production, SIS Sports and SIS cultural activities.

Recipients would have a consistent record of attendance at College Sporting Carnivals and Year Level Camps etc. Their attitude would exemplify a willingness to work cooperatively with staff and to encourage and support their peers.

House Academic Excellence Award For students who have an average of ‘A’ grades across a subject in mid-year and end-of-year reports. Students achieving outstanding results in specific areas of the curriculum could also be considered eligible for a specific award such as Technology Studies, Languages Other Than English.

House St. Peter’s Award Students as they grow in maturity will at times experience a great re-orientation or improvement in their attitude to school and to work. This often, though not always, will result in improvements in their grades. Regardless, it deserves acknowledgement since it speaks of redemption, and notes that negativity and failure are not ‘terminal’.

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CAMPS & RETREATS

Compulsory Student Attendance

The following compulsory College Camps and Retreats are held:  Year 7 Orientation Camp – 3 days/2 nights. The essential aim of this camp is to help the Year 7’s settle in, make new friends and feel the sense of connection and belonging to the College.  Year 9 Outdoor Education Camp – 4 days/3 nights. This is a personally physically challenging camp that takes the students out of their comfort zone and has them working in teams to overcome challenges/obstacles/hurdles, as well as enjoy the outdoor activities on offer at the beachside camp.  Year 11 Retreat – 2 days/2 nights Religious Education Retreat. This is a retreat designed to take the students away from everyday life at school and to explore their inner spirituality. It has a strong emphasis on the Catholic Faith leadership and challenges the students to explore their own faith journey.  Year 12 Retreat – 2 days/2 nights Religious Education Retreat. This is a retreat designed to once again take the students away from everyday life at school and to explore their inner spirituality. It has a strong emphasis on the Catholic Faith and challenges the students to explore their own faith journey. Students will also be able to apply for Invitational Camps/Trips including our Japanese Exchange, French/New Caledonia Exchange, Northern Territory Trip, and the Solomon Islands Immersion and Cultural Program.

Year 7 Camp – 2018

Year 7 Camp will take place at Forest Edge in Neerim East. For students attending the East Campus, camp will be 6-8 March and for students attending the West Campus, it will be 8-10 March. Attendance at camp is compulsory. It is an opportunity for students to make new friendships and challenge themselves with the various activities on offer during the three days. On the day of departure, students are required to arrive at the College at 8.30am. Roll will be taken and then students will board the bus for travel to Neerim East. Prior to the camp, the following information will be sent to parent/guardians:  Permission slip  Medical/dietary form  Clothing/packing list  Information regarding the menu on offer It is important for parents to check and return all of the above forms to the front office prior to the camp. The Year 7 Camp is an important part of transition for students. They will be placed in activity groups and will be given the opportunity to take place in a number of challenging activities such as: river sledding, indoor rock climbing, rope courses, and other activities. Staff supervise students, and experienced camp organisers instruct students as they participate in the various tasks. It is a great opportunity for students to socialise, make new friendships and challenge themselves. St. Peter’s College camps are structured to give students an opportunity to learn more about the culture and ethos of the College. When students enrol at St. Peter’s College, they agree to take on all of the responsibilities of being a member of this College community. Attending school camps and retreats is one of these responsibilities. As a parent, your acceptance of this expectation was also acknowledged in writing.

Further information will be sent home with your child at the beginning of the 2018 school year.

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EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS

Sport

The College is a fully participating member of the Southern Independent Schools (SIS) Sporting Association.

We participate at major carnivals in Athletics, Cross Country and Swimming. The College also competes in Interschool Sport in Netball, Softball, Basketball, Soccer, Football, Cricket, Tennis, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Handball and Baseball.

For more information on the SIS Program at St. Peter’s College for Year 7, students please contact: East Campus Mrs Chloe Maltar [email protected] West Campus Mr Justin De Goldi [email protected]

Southern Independent Schools Program

St. Peter’s College also participates in a number of SIS Cultural Activities including Debating Competition, Theatre Sports, Chess Competitions, SIS Arts and Technology Expo, Teen Chef, Public Speaking and Book-In-A-Day competitions.

Details of these events will be communicated to the students throughout the year, and via the St. Peter’s College Calendar, as well as on our website at the beginning of each school term. www.stpeters.vic.edu.au

College Production

The College Production is a bi-annual event and will be next staged in 2018.

The Production is designed to allow students from Years 7 to 12 to demonstrate their artistic and creative talents, in not only drama and dance, but also musical endeavours.

It gives students exposure to the ‘real-theatre’ experience across a wide range of theatre spectrums, including back-stage, production, and front of house, lighting, staging, stage-prop construction, make- up and costumes.

For more information on the College Production, contact Mr Brian Wallwork at [email protected]

College Band & Vocal Groups

For Extra Curricular Musical opportunities for Year 7 students, please contact the College Office.

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DISCOVERY CENTRE & LIBRARY

The St. Peter’s College Discovery Centre and Library Program offer a range of services and resources that support the College Curriculum in a welcoming learning environment.

Reading is promoted at Years 7 and 8 through our unique Readarama program, and consistently encouraged at all other year levels. Research skills essential to successful living in the 21st century are taught to individuals, classes and groups of students.

Resources available for academic and recreational purposes include print and eBooks, magazines and DVDs. Students can access excellent e-resources from school, and at home via our St. Peter’s College Virtual Library. The on-line Encyclopaedia and Web links, a database of websites specifically selected for students are recommended as a starting point for student research. An e-notetaking template and other research strategies are also available.

Library Hours: Mon-Thurs: 8.00am – 5.30 pm Friday: 8.00am - 4.00pm during school term Lunchtime activities include Book Club, Chess Club and Film Friday, as well as dedicated Study sessions.

Borrowing: Mainly two weeks with some resources only available overnight.

Students need to have permission from their teacher to visit the library during class time. Printing and photocopying are available. In order to provide a speedy service and to access photocopying and printing, students are encouraged to carry their College ID Cards with them.

Homework Club & Maths Support

Educational research is inconclusive regarding controversial debate about the benefits of homework. If you have a son or daughter who is happy to quietly do their homework without a fuss, the issue most likely will not be of particular interest to you. However, if your child groans about homework, finds homework a challenge or thinks that if they are working at school all day they should not have to work at home as well, then I imagine you will have very definite ideas on the subject!

No doubt, you will agree that there are times when homework can be a major source of family conflict and anxiety for both children and parents in the home.

St. Peter’s College may have a solution to your problem…Homework Club!

Situated in the Discovery Centre at the East Campus, and the Library at the West Campus, Homework Club is a place for students to study and to receive one-on-one help with their homework and assignments. Students are encouraged to do their best in a helpful, positive and friendly environment.

Attending Homework Club once or twice a week can enable students to take personal responsibility for managing their schoolwork commitments, to develop a study routine, self-discipline, organisational and time management skills.

The Club runs from Monday to Thursday, 3:30 - 4:30pm and is available for all students, Years 7-12. Maths Support Classes also run one night per week from 3.30 – 4.30pm.

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COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION General Office

For change of student details, appointments and general enquiries please contact the General Office on 5990 7777. We encourage and appreciate your communication to the College to enable our records to be accurately maintained. Parents wishing to contact with staff directly may leave messages with Office staff or email us at [email protected]

Early Departures and Late Arrivals

Students who arrive late to school should have a note or verified permission from parents, and MUST sign in at Student Reception. The Student Record Book contains pre-printed forms that can be photocopied and then used as required. Students who sign in late with no parent permission will be issued with a lunchtime detention.

Students who leave the school early MUST have a signed note from parents. The note should be shown to the House Leader and signed by the House Leader at the start of the day, and then presented at Student Reception when the student officially signs out. Please note that PA announcements cannot be made during class time. Students leaving MUST meet their parent at Student Reception. (“They will not be allowed to leave independently”?) Administration staff are unable to leave the office to collect students from class.

Students who need to depart early due to illness MUST report to the Sick Bay. The Office Staff will arrange for parents to collect their child from the General Office.

Students signing in or out can do so using a Student Card – if your child requires a replacement card they can be purchased for $5 at Student Reception. Students who are late without permission will receive a lunchtime detention.

Students are responsible for catching up on missed work. They should ask their teachers about work on their return to school.

Visitors to the College

Without exception, all visitors to the College are required to attend the General Office and collect a Visitor’s Pass. Visitors who have contact with children MUST sign a Code of Conduct and show their Working With Children Card.

Uniform Shop Hours

The Uniform Shop is located at the West Campus and is open during the school term Weekly Tuesday 1.00 pm to 5.00pm Thursday 8.00 am to 12 noon Monthly Saturday 9.00 am to 12 noon (dates on Website Calendar)

The Uniform Shop is closed during School Holidays and Public Holidays, with some exceptions. Please contact the College Office on 5990 7777 for up to date information.

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THE STUDENT RECORD BOOK

The St. Peter’s College Record Book is the primary means of communication between the school and the student’s home. It has a number of roles:  recording homework, assignments, school-related dates and notes from staff or parents  wellbeing tracker to help students monitor their exercise, sleep, diet and mindfulness  daily reflections designed to helps students explore gratitude and empathy

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The Record Book is also designed to assist students with their studies as they progress at St. Peter’s College. This booklet is therefore a guide on how to use this vital tool for homework and study.

The left column is used for filling in all of the subjects for each day. This should be done in advance. In fact, it is preferable for this to be completed at least two weeks in advance.

The middle column on this page is the largest. It allows students to fill in details about the homework that is set for that day. The following is the order in which homework should be recorded on each line for each subject:

 Unfinished class work – where a student fails to complete the set tasks in class, it is the expectation of the College that this work will be completed as homework  Set homework – individual subject teachers will set the homework  Projects and Assignments – many subjects will require students to complete major tasks at home over an extended period. Where there is no set homework, the student should fill in the details of the project or assignment to be completed  Revision – if a student has finished all set class work and does not have any homework or assignments to complete, it is the expectation that the student will revise. This is particularly appropriate where a test or examination may be scheduled. It is also appropriate for language studies  Reading – Students are encouraged to undertake wider reading, particularly for English  Recordkeeping – Students can actually take some time to update their Record Book and ensure that they are organised if they have completed all of the tasks listed above.  No homework – the only time that a student will find themselves in the unlikely position of not having any homework is when they have completed all of the above tasks.

The final two and smallest columns on this page are for writing deadlines for submissions, and for checking off an item of homework once it has been completed.

The Newsletter is emailed each week to parents, and is a primary source of information for parents. The School Notices Received check box should be ticked at the end of each week when the Newsletter has been received and the Student Record Book is then signed by parents. The plastic pocket at the back of the Record Book is for any notices that may have to be sent between parent and teacher or for the student’s timetable.

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This opposing page in the Student Record Book is made up of two columns. The “What’s on today” column is where staff and parents are able to communicate with each other by writing in the Record Book.

Perhaps one of the most important parts of the record book is the left hand column on this page. It has two components based on principles of Positive Education. Positive Education is “the development of educational environments that enable the learner to engage in established curricula in addition to knowledge and skills to develop their own and others' wellbeing” (Martin Seligman, 2014). It recognises that exercise, sleep, diet and mindfulness are crucial for your child to achieve their best not just at school but also in life.

 Daily Reflections that are designed to help your child to explore the concepts of gratitude and empathy.  Wellbeing Tracker that helps your child monitor four vitally important components of wellbeing: sleep, exercise, diet and mindfulness.

A reading of the marker page in the Record Book will explain how it works and the value for our students who implement these strategies. Learning Advisors will use time in morning Tutor Group to encourage

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students to undertake these activities to foster Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness. These qualities will strengthen our young people’s resilience and better ensure that their mental health and wellbeing is flourishing.

At the bottom of the page is a space for a signature. It is the expectation of the College that parents will sign the Record Book at the end of each week to ensure that you have seen the details of that week. In working collaboratively with parents and students, the Learning Advisor will also sign the Record Book each week.

The rear of the Student Record Book also contains notices of absences. If a student is absent for a day or period, we ask that a parent/guardian ring the College in the morning to notify us. Once a student returns to school, we require a signed note from a parent/guardian.

The slips in the rear of the Record Book may be used for this purpose. If there is an unexpected absence from school, or if a student needs to leave prior to the official dismissal time, a parent/guardian should complete one of these passes so that the student may ‘sign out’ from the office at the specified time.

It is envisaged that the Student Record Book will be an invaluable tool for all students at St. Peter’s College. Organisation is the key to success and those students, who use this organisation tool correctly, certainly have the advantage.

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HOMEWORK TIPS FOR STUDENTS

Work Area Set Up

 This should be an area that the student can comfortably complete ALL tasks.  This should be away from external distractions (i.e. desk in a room)  Any electronic devices (unless being used for homework or study purposes) should be turned off or to silent to minimise distractions. Students may the then use these devices as a reward for a defined period of time after homework is done for an agreed time period. (eg. 1 hour homework/study and then 30 minute break)

Use of the St. Peter’s College Student Record Book

The Student Record Book has a number of roles:

 Facilitate the delivery of Positive Education during morning Tutor Group.  A communication tool between home and school  Recording of homework/assignment dates

Recording of Homework

Each subject should be outlined every school day. After each class, homework should be recorded as instructed by teacher.

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Recording of Assignments

The due date of Assignments should be recorded on the left hand page of the Student Record Book.

At the end of the school day, you should check your Record Book.

Ask yourself:  What homework do I have?  Do I have the required materials to complete the homework? Textbooks/Workbooks?  Have I written in any due dates of assignments?  Have I completed my daily reflections and wellbeing tracker?

Use of Homework Time

How should I structure my homework time?  Prioritise – rank in order of work that is due first

e.g.:  Complete homework which may be due the next day  Assignment work  Revision of school work

Students should allocate the following times to homework and home study each week:

YEAR LEVEL HOURS PER NIGHT HOURS PER WEEK Year 7 1 5 Year 8 1.5 7.5 Year 9 2 10 Year 10 2.5 12.5 Year 11 3 15 Year 12 4 20

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Guide for Parents – Use of Glance Planner

On the Glance Planner (pages 2 & 3 of the Student Record Book) homework or assignment tasks can be recorded. This can assist students to prioritise homework.

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STUDENT COUNSELLING & WELLBEING

At. Peter’s College Student Wellbeing Department offers counselling for students and parents who feel the need for it. Student Wellbeing Leader, Mrs Anita Carter and our Counsellors, are able to provide referral to a wide network of helpful and professional specialists.

We aim to provide caring guidance wherever possible within the framework of the school community.

Part time Counsellor, Ms Nadia Picinali, is available three days per week at the West Campus, and Mrs Clare Ziino, Counsellor, is available full time at the East Campus. All Wellbeing Department staff can be contacted via the Main office at St. Peter’s College on 03 5990 7777.

Some of the services we are able to offer referral to include:  Catholic Care - Private Practitioners  Educational Psychologist - Family Therapist  Nutrionist - St Vincent De Paul Services  Psychology Department - Sexual Assault Centre  Monash Medical Centre Paediatric Unit  Community Services Victoria (Department Of Human Services)  Children’s Court Advisory Service  Adolescent Early in Life Mental Health Service (E. L.M.H.S.)

All of the above services naturally prefer students to be referred to them. Parents are always consulted prior to any referrals being made. Parents may make an appointment for their son/daughter by calling Mrs Carter at the College. If you wish to discuss an issue relating to your son/daughter’s wellbeing, you may make an appointment for yourself via a phone call, letter or email Mrs Anita Carter at [email protected].

The College Student Wellbeing team welcomes any parent who wishes to talk to us in confidence about their child. Counselling within the College covers areas such as:  Grief and loss  Mental health issues  Relationship issues  Adolescent problems  Family crises/conflict  Anger management  Self-esteem/ Self-confidence development  School stress  Organisational skills

The nature of the counselling is short-term, solution-focused sessions. Where a student may appear to need more intensive therapy, referral to an outside professional may be recommended. Many services operated by the Catholic Care may be accessed for a minimal cost.

The Student Wellbeing service acts in partnership with staff and parents. Should you need our assistance, we look forward to a positive and helping relationship for you and your child.

Mrs Anita Carter STUDENT WELLBEING LEADER

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BULLYING & HARASSMENT POLICY PARENT INFORMATION

Introduction

Staff members at St. Peter’s College have developed a Bullying Policy to assist students, colleagues and other members of our community counter the experience of bullying. Unfortunately, from time to time, bullying has and will continue to take place within the St. Peter’s College Community. As all members of our community have the right to feel safe and to be treated with respect, we felt it was necessary to clarify what we view as bullying actions, and how the College Community will deal with this situation once it has been identified. The following information will explain the St. Peter’s College Bullying Policy. Similar information will be presented to your children, and includes the following elements:

 Who is affected by this policy  What actions can be described as bullying  What to do if you are bullied or you see someone being bullied  What will happen when you report a bullying incident  What will be the consequences or outcomes

Definitions

It is important that everyone understands what we mean when we use words such as bullying. The College Policy has adopted the community standard definitions of bullying as they are expressed in writing and in the various legislation on harassment and discrimination, which apply to Victoria and Australia. The definitions, which appear on the next page, are the ones, which have been included in the Student Leaflet:

Bullying can take many forms. It is not just a big kid threatening a little kid

 It can be physical, where fighting, pushing and shoving happens  It can be verbal, with someone being called names, being put down, talked about behind their back, or being picked on because of the way they look, or the things they do, or are good at  It can be visual, where offensive notes are passed around about someone, or where damage is done to someone’s books, bag, artwork, locker etc.  It can be victimisation, where threats to “get” someone are made, or where someone is picked on  It can be sexual, where someone is touched in a way that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable, or when rude names, or jokes or comments are made about the way a person looks or lives their life  It can be through body language where others turn their backs on someone, or use inappropriate gestures to someone  It can be through rumours, where stories are made up and told to others about someone, or when stories are exaggerated about someone and spread around to others  It can be through cyber technology – via telephone calls, e-mail, websites, social networking sites and where verbal or written messages are sent which are insulting, untrue, intimidating or frightening. This can even include sending or creating images of members of the St. Peter’s College Community without their permission.

Bullying is NOT just peer conflict between students or groups of students. It must involve a power imbalance and repeated behaviour to be defined as bullying.

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What Happens When A Bullying Incident Is Reported?

As parents, it can be heartbreaking to discover that your child is upset because they are being bullied in any of the ways described previously. It can be even harder to bear if your child begs you not to contact school on the basis that “it will only make it worse”. It is very important to resist this plea. The truth is bullying will continue if the person being bullied remains silent and takes no appropriate action to stop the bullying actions. If your child is being bullied, please contact one of the following people to report the incident in this order:

 Your child’s Learning Advisor  Your child’s House Leader  The Pastoral Care Leader – Miss Fiona McKenna (West) or Ms Janelle McRae (East)  The Student Wellbeing Leader (Mrs Carter) or the School Counsellors (Ms Picinali – West and Mrs Ziino - East )  The Head of Campus – Mr David Hansen (West) or Mrs Julie Banda (East)  The Principal – Mr Chris Black

When you contact one of these people, please have the following details ready to give them:  What happened  When it happened  Who was involved  Who saw the incident

The incident will then be investigated by the Learning Advisor, the House Leader and depending on the circumstances, the Pastoral Care Leader. This will enable us to clearly understand the full picture of what took place, and more importantly, why it happened. This will include:

 An interview with your child  An interview with the person alleged to have bullied  Interviews with any witnesses

This will all be carried out as quickly as possible, usually within 48 hours of your initial contact with the College. A bullying investigation tool may be used depending on the circumstances surrounding the allegation.

Once all the information has been compiled, a decision will be made about the next steps to be taken. You and your child will be kept up to date with everything that is happening, prior to any action.

Consequences

When it becomes clear that a person has bullied another member of the St. Peter’s College Community, there will be consequences for their actions. Each incident will be treated individually and confidentially to the parties concerned. The consequences may vary from case to case, depending on the circumstances surrounding each individual incident of bullying. Some of the possible consequences for those who bully others are listed below:  Interview with senior members of staff and parents of the person who did the bullying  A Bullying Incident Report naming the person who did the bullying is placed on the College Bullying Register.  The person who bullied signs an agreement that s/he will not bully anyone, in any way, again  Repairing or replacing damaged property  Withdrawing access to certain privileges/resources at school for a particular period of time  Suspension Repeat bullying will be treated as a very serious offence, and the consequences will be more severe. Depending on the situation, repeat bullying may include withdrawing a student from certain subjects or negotiating a student’s transfer to another Campus or College.

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Appeals If you or your child is unhappy with the way the incident was handled by the staff investigating the incident, you are entitled to contact the Principal to discuss your concerns, and seek a resolution to the issues you may have.

Monitoring the Outcome

Once the incident has been resolved, the House Leader and the College Wellbeing Leader will monitor the situation to ensure that any assistance recommendations and/or consequences are implemented for both the student who was bullied, and the offending student.

Conclusion

Simply because a policy exists on paper does not mean that bullying will suddenly cease to exist. It will only disappear from our community if we are all vigilant in ensuring that the people who bully others learn and understand that their behaviour is unacceptable.

Therefore, it is important to report any incidents of bullying to those people identified in this booklet, if your child feels unable to do so themselves. Please do not allow your child to persuade you that the bullying will only get worse if you report the incident to an adult at the College. Bullying will only get worse if the bully thinks that they can get away with it – the longer their actions go unchecked, the “safer” from detection the bully will feel, and the more they are going to bully your child. Not only does your child need to feel safe and respected, but also the bully needs to be educated to the appropriate ways of living and working with others. Do not allow bullying to continue.

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BULLYING & HARASSMENT Student Information

Introduction

In a Catholic Community like ours at St. Peter’s College, we believe that all human beings are made in the image of God and are therefore entitled to be treated with dignity and respect. Because of this belief, all forms of harassment and bullying are unacceptable at St. Peter’s College.

This information will explain the St. Peter’s College Bullying Policy:

 What actions can be described as bullying  What to do if you are bullied or you see someone being bullied  What will happen when you report a bullying incident  What consequences bullies can expect

It is OK to Tell

Some students believe that by telling someone they will only make it worse. Bullies only have power over you, if you let them. If you do not let an adult know that you are being bullied, it will continue. If you tell your parents, and then tell them not to tell the adults at school, the bullying will continue. Do not put your parents in this situation!

Who Can I Tell?

If you experience any of the behaviours, you will read about in this booklet, you need to tell an adult in the St. Peter’s College Community as soon as you can. The adult might be one of your parents, your Learning Advisor, one of your teachers, your House Leader, Student Welfare Counsellors, one of the Heads of Campus or the Principal. It does not matter which adult you choose – it is important that you let an adult know, so that they can help you deal with the situation. Staying quiet and not telling an adult means that the bullying will continue – you have to take action to make sure that it stops.

The Role of Bystanders

In many cases, bullying occurs when teachers are not present but other students are. Studies have shown that when bystanders take an active role in discouraging bullies, it actually stops in more than 50% of cases. One of the most effective ways to deal with bullying is when everyone in the St. Peter’s College Community acknowledges their responsibility to ensure that bullying will not be tolerated. If you see it happening to someone else, you have a responsibility to make it stop. The only way you can do this is to tell an adult member of the St. Peter’s College Community and allow them to help you deal with the problem.

So, What Is Bullying?

Bullying can take many forms

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Physical where fighting, pushing and shoving happens

Cyber Using technology to Verbal send messages name calling which are insulting, untrue, intimidating threats or frightening Forms of Bullying

Rumors Visual making and or offensive notes, spreading of untrue posters and graffiti stories about including Cyber someone

Sexual inappropriate touching or jokes and comments of a sexual nature

Remember, if you feel that you are being bullied, you must tell an adult in the St. Peter’s College Community straight away, so that they can help you!

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What Happens When I Report A Bullying Incident?

When you tell an adult about a situation where you have been bullied, your Learning Advisor and your House Leader will be involved and they will need to know the details:

 What happened  When it happened  Who was involved  Who saw the incident

The incident will then be investigated by these two staff members and sometimes, the Head of Campus, so that we can understand the full picture of what happened, and more importantly, why it happened. Just as you have the right to make a complaint against someone whom you believe is bullying you, that person also has the right to explain their actions.

Once all the information has been gathered together, a decision will be made about the next steps to be taken. You will be kept up to date with everything that is happening.

Consequences

When it becomes clear that a person has bullied another member of the St. Peter’s College Community, there will be consequences for their actions. Each incident will be treated individually, but some of the possible consequences for those who bully others are listed below:

 Interview with senior members of staff and parents of the person who did the bullying  A Bullying Incident Report naming the person who did the bullying is placed on the College Bullying Incident File  The person who bullied signs an agreement that they will not bully anyone, in any way, again  Repairing or replacing damaged property  Withdrawing access to certain privileges/resources at school for a particular period of time;  Suspension.

Repeat bullying will be treated as a very serious offence, and the consequences will be more severe. Depending on the situation, they may include withdrawing a student from certain subjects or negotiating a student’s transfer to another College.

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SOCIAL MEDIA ETIQUETTE GUIDELINES AGREEMENT

INTRODUCTION: St. Peter’s College has a duty of care to take reasonable steps to protect students from any harm that should have reasonably been foreseen. The misuse of social media tools is on the increase, and some students and parents to deliberately defame, harass or vilify another member of the College Community are now using them. The College is of the view that this type of behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. St. Peter’s College, and/or the individual impacted by the incorrect use of social media, reserves the right to involve the Police and/or take legal action. DEFINITIONS: The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) refer to social media as including:  Social networking sites (e.g. Facebook, LinkedIn, MySpace, Instagram, Tumblr)  Video and photo sharing web sites (e.g. Flickr, YouTube)  Blogs, including corporate blogs and personal blogs  Micro-blogs (e.g. Twitter)  Forums, discussion boards and groups (e.g. Google groups, Whirlpool)  Wikis (e.g. Wikipedia)  VOD and podcasts  Video conferences and web conferences  E-mail and instant messaging  All other emerging electronic/digital communication applications

UNACCEPTABLE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA An event that causes distress to another student, including cyberbullying, sexting, exposure to pornographic images or where a student has engaged in inappropriate behaviour online that may cause psychological or emotional harm to another student or to themselves. STUDENT GUIDELINES AND AGREEMENT:  I will promote and uphold the good name of St. Peter’s College and ensure that the digital reputation of others is protected when using social media, including the posting of any photos of myself or another person online  I will not film or photograph anything that would result in damaging the reputation of St. Peter’s College, or a member of the College Community  I will not say anything in a social media forum that I would not be prepared to say to someone in person  When participating in online conversations, I will always act with integrity and ensure that I respect an individual’s privacy and opinions  I will not post personal information that was given to me privately (e.g. names, private conversations, emails and photographs)  I will always behave with respect and courtesy, without harassing, threatening or being dismissive

 I will recognise that some information needs to remain confidential and is not for public discussion

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DRUG EDUCATION POLICY Student Information

Introduction

What you are about to read is the ‘student friendly’ version of our full and official Drug Education Policy.

It has been written in this manner to make all students (Years 7 - 12) fully aware of the values, attitudes and approach of St. Peter’s College in relation to the issue of drug use in our community. It outlines our policy on drug education, student welfare and appropriate and inappropriate use of drugs. It makes clear the actions St. Peter’s College will take in relation to all of these issues.

Preamble

‘Health is good because of the other goods that flow from it’. Dr. N. Ford S.D.B

‘The Glory of God is a person fully alive.’ St. Irenaeus

In our Catholic tradition, great emphasis has been placed on education so that young people may come to know God. An important aspect of this knowledge is the appreciation of ourselves as God’s handiwork. Anything, which reduces our God-given dignity, is to be opposed.

What Is A Drug?

We are using a commonly-known definition of a drug by the WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION.

“A drug . . . is any substance (with the exception of food or water) which when taken into the body, significantly alters its function either physically or psychologically.”

There are three main types of Drug:

Depressants e.g. Alcohol

Stimulants e.g. Tobacco

Hallucinogens e.g. LSD

At St. Peter’s College, no student has permission to use, bring, buy or sell any of these types of drugs whilst on the College property, whilst engaged in a College activity (e.g. camp or excursion) or whilst in College uniform. In addition, no student has permission to use, bring, buy or sell any substance, which is banned by the Government from use or sale to those who are under 18 years of age.

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A Harm Minimisation Approach & Student Welfare

Q. What is ‘Harm Minimisation’ and why is it an important part of St. Peter’s College Drugs Policy?

A. ‘Harm Minimisation’ is an approach, which sees drugs as both a public and personal, health and welfare problem. We know that not all people are the same. We recognise that at our College there will be a range of behaviours as far as drugs are concerned. These include total non-use (abstinence) through to occasional use, misuse and abuse. Because of this, we support taking action, which keeps students (across the full range from non-use to abuse) as safe as possible. This includes: conveying accurate information and education; providing rules and regulations which reduce the likelihood of drugs being brought to or used at school; providing assistance to those involved in drug- related incidents, and maintaining a safe school environment where people, as individuals and as part of the total student body, are respected.

Education Policy

An important part of dealing with drug use is providing young people with accurate information and useful life-skills. St. Peter’s College is committed to providing drug education units for all students from Year 7 through to Year 12. We will make it possible for all St. Peter’s College students to develop an understanding of what drugs are, what they do, why they are used and how to cope with all the issues associated with them. Drug Education will have formal units in the R.E., English and Health and P.E. curriculum, but they will also get the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in many other subject areas from time to time.

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Authorised Drug Use When Is It Ok To Use Drugs At School?

It IS OK to bring to school;

1) Prescription Drugs or

2) Pain Killers

BUT! Students must have a school medication form signed by parent/guardian and doctor.

Any medication students bring to school MUST BE TAKEN TO THE MAIN OFFICE. It must remain in its original container with the student’s name, the dose and the time it is to be taken indicated. It should also indicate whether it needs to be refrigerated.

Unauthorised’ Drug Use In The School Setting

When it is NOT OK or in any way permitted to use drugs at school.

The ‘school setting’ means while at the College, in College uniform or on a College excursion, camp, or function.

You are NOT allowed to:

 use any unauthorised drug in the school setting  be under the influence of any unauthorised drug (if you are unsure of what a drug is, check)

TOBACCO, ALCOHOL, INHALANTS AND ILLEGAL DRUGS are unauthorised/not permitted for use or possession at St. Peter’s College. Students are not allowed to supply other students with any of these drugs. If students do, or the College believes students may have done any of the above, it will be ‘appropriately investigated’ to find out the truth of the matter. This means at times there may be a need to interview people or search property, but this will always be carried out according to careful guidelines and student’s rights will be respected. The safety of other students (not involved in drug-incidents) is also of great importance and that is why an investigation may be necessary.

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Responses

What St. Peter’s College will do if a student is involved in unauthorised drug use in the school setting.

Tobacco (smoking) - If students smoke or are in the presence of smokers in ‘the school setting’, they will in all cases be suspended and parents will be contacted.

Alcohol and illegal drugs - If students use, are in the presence of users or are under the influence of these substances in the ‘school setting’, they will be suspended and their parents will be contacted. The Student Counsellor will be contacted and involved, as will the Principal and Head of Campus. The College may be obliged, in some cases to involve the Police in such situations.

**A negotiated Transfer - What is this and why might it happen?

If you use, supply or sell ‘unauthorised drugs’ in the College setting, the College has the right to arrange a change of school to another Catholic school, Secondary College, Training Institute or Higher Education Institute. This could happen even for a first offence, depending upon the ‘nature and consequences’ of the drug-related incident. (See p.7 Official Drug Education Policy).

Finally

This Policy took notice of what students told us in previous surveys. It included their:

 Education ideas;  Wellbeing ideas;  Rules and Regulations that you as students thought were necessary.

The Policy was written by a group, which included teachers, level co-ordinators, parents, the Principal and the School Counsellor. Its whole purpose is to ensure student health and wellbeing while they are part of the College community (and hopefully when the students have left and started a new life). The information it contains is for the benefit of everyone at St. Peter’s College.

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PARENTS & FRIENDS COMMITTEE

Your Parent and Friends Committee holds meetings twice per term in the College Administration Building, either at the West or East Campus as advertised. The evening commences at 7.15 pm with tea and coffee, with the meeting starting at 7.30pm.

Meetings are usually over by 9.00 pm. The meeting dates for 2018 are: Wednesday, 14 February Wednesday, 23 March Wednesday, 2 May Wednesday, 30 May Wednesday, 18 July Wednesday, 29 August Wednesday, 7 November Wednesday, 12 December These dates are also advertised on our College website at www.stpeters.vic.edu.au

Throughout the year, the P&F meetings include guest speakers from the College community. They give you the opportunity to speak to our Principal and other key members of staff in this informal setting.

In 2016, a sub-committee was formed within the P&F Committee to work with students and staff on the St. Peter’s College Uniform. The main aim of this sub-committee is to ‘support the Principal and staff in the development of the College Uniform, including Uniform items, Dress Code & Uniform Policy, Appropriate Enforcement and Sanctions, all based on the College’s statement of core values.’

Annual events organised by the Committee include working with the Student Representative Council students on a Bunnings BBQ. The College P&F also supports the celebration of St. Peter’s Day by supplying a free sausage sizzle and drink to all students. This is achieved with the help of past College & House Captains.

Your P&F Committee may be contacted through the College at [email protected]

 President: Mrs Naomi Bartlett  Treasurer: Mrs Jodie Redman  Secretary: Mrs Mairi-Anne Macartney

We encourage all parents to support the endeavours of your P&F Committee with either regular attendance at our meetings, participating on our sub-committees, volunteering to help at one-off events, or via fundraising initiatives undertaken throughout the year.

Mrs Naomi Bartlett PRESIDENT

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PARENT RESOURCES

CYBERSAFETY CHAT DANGER.COM CYBERSMART ChatDanger.com provides advice about online Developed by the Australian Communications and and mobile chat and interactive services. Media Authority, Cybersmart is part of the Visit: www.chatdanger.com Australian Government’s cybersafety program. It provides resources and advice to young people Stay Smart Online and parents on managing the internet safely. Advice on smart online habits including Visit: www.cybersmart.gov.au shopping, socialising and banking. Visit: www.staysmartonline.gov.au SpamMatters To make a complaint about spam email, IM, SMS and MMS messages: Tel: 1300 855 180 Visit: www.acma.gov.au/spam Alternatively, you can forward spam sent on For Help & Guidance mobile phones to the following number: 0429 999 888. Kids Helpline Telephone and online counselling for SCAMwatch Australian children and young people. Recognise, report and protect yourself from Tel: 1800 551 800 scams. Visit: kidshelp.com.au Tel: 1300 302 502 Visit: www.scamwatch.gov.au Reach Out Information and support for young people to ThinkUKnow help them through tough times. ThinkUKnow is an internet safety program run by Visit: www.reachout.com.au the Australian Federal Police and Microsoft and Email: [email protected] supported by ACMA. Visit: www.thinkuknow.org.au Beyond Blue Information for Australians about depression. The Alannah and Madeline Foundation Visit: www.beyondblue.org.au The Alannah and Madeline Foundation’s Cybersafety and Wellbeing Initiative aims to make Life Line cybersafety a normal part of every young person’s Telephone counselling and online advice and life. support – 24 hours. Visit: www.amf.org.au/cybersafety/#section2 Tel: 13 11 14 Visit: www.lifeline.com.au Str8TLK Str8TLK provides information on mobile phones for young people by the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association. Visit: www.str8tlk.org.au

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